Steph Curry reportedly suffered a setback in his recovery from the knee issue that has sidelined the Warriors superstar since the end of January.
Curry, who has missed Golden State’s past nine games, pushed too hard in an attempt to race back and ended up doing more harm than good, according to ESPN’s Marc Spears.
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 7, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) NBAE via Getty Images
The setback occurred around the NBA All-Star break two weeks ago, Spears told Bay Area radio station 95.7 FM on Thursday.
“He was trying to work out, trying to get back and it pushed him back,” Spears said. “I’m not sure when he’ll be back, but I do know he wants to come back.”
Curry, 37, is set to be reevaluated by the Warriors training staff on Saturday. Golden State hosts the Lakers later that night, when Curry will miss his 10th game with patella-femoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee, as well as a bone bruise in his right knee.
The diagnosis means that Curry is dealing with irritation around the front of the knee, according to UCSF orthopedic surgeon Dr. Nirav Pandya. The best method of treatment is rest, but the tricky part, Pandya said, is that there is no defined timetable.
“Sometimes it can be a couple days, sometimes a couple weeks, sometimes several months,” Pandya said on X. “Essentially it’s about getting that rest, getting that inflammation down, so that the player can be effective on the court without causing more aggravation.”
Curry expressed frustration about the nebulous nature of the injury in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle last week. “It’s frustrating not being out there, especially with an injury that doesn’t necessarily have a specific timeline you can trust,” he said.
LeBron James speaks with Stephen Curry following a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on February 07, 2026. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images) Getty Images
Curry’s desire to hurry back is fueled in part by the Warriors’ position in the standings. Golden State’s veteran-laden roster would benefit from all the rest it can get by avoiding the play-in tournament.
With 23 games to go, however, the Warriors are fairly comfortably locked in to the No. 7-8 matchup in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers and Clippers aren’t giving them much chase from the ninth and 10th spots, while the Warriors remain 3.5 games back of the Lakers and the No. 6 seed.
“This team is kind of in a no man’s land. They’re probably too bad for a playoff lock, a top-six spot. But they’re too good to not be in the play-in,” Spears said. “So Steph expects to be in the play-in. He wants to be in the play-in. He wants the chance to be in the playoffs.”
MILWAUKEE, WI - FEBRUARY 6: Pete Nance #35 of the Milwaukee Bucks dunks the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers on February 6, 2026 at Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images
In this week’s Tuesday Tracker and our SB Nation Reacts survey, we asked you about Pete Nance’s two-way contract and the Bucks’ projected playoff seeding. Here are the highlights:
77% of respondents want the Bucks to convert Pete Nance to a standard deal, and if that’s the route the team chooses, 57% feel that Andre Jackson Jr. should be cut from the 15-man roster to make room.
84% of voters believe Milwaukee will rise into the play-in, though 66% of them think they’ll be no higher than the 9th spot, meaning they’d have to win two games to make the actual playoffs.
If they miss the playoffs, they’ll have a lottery pick in June’s draft, and 60% of fans polled think the Bucks should keep that pick, no matter where it ends up.
Of those who disagree, 65% of them would trade the pick if it falls outside the top ten, which is the most likely scenario: factoring in the pick swap with the Pelicans, the two teams’ current positions give the Bucks only a 15.9% chance of drafting better than ten.
Fans also recognize that Milwaukee’s improved play, plus clear tanking by Chicago, Memphis, and Dallas, means that they won’t sink lower than their current spot in the lottery standings (10th).
Thanks again for voting! Check back on Tuesday for another slate of questions.
There’s no better way to kick off the weekend than with some winning bets.
I’ve combed through the latest NBA odds and singled out my three favorites for today, including points props for two role players capitalizing on extra opportunities.
Check out all of my NBA picks for Friday, February 27.
It’s been an unusual season for the Milwaukee Bucks. With Giannis Antetokounmpo missing significant time, they’ve still managed to win eight of their last 10 games heading into tonight's matchup with the New York Knicks.
Kyle Kuzma has stepped up for Milwaukee, averaging 14.6 points over his last 12 contests and shooting 40% from 3-point range over his last five.
The Knicks' perimeter defense has been shaky this season, ranking 20th in opponent made threes per game. Kuzma has made 2+ threes in four of his last five starts, and he’s likely to do it again tonight.
Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
Where to watch: MSG, FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin
Prop #2: GG Jackson Jr. Over 16.5 points
-112 at bet365
The Memphis Grizzlies’ injury list reads like a horror story, and they desperately need scoring.
G.G. Jackson Jr. is averaging 17.4 points with a .667 eFG% over his last nine games, and tonight he faces a Dallas Mavericks team that’s nearly as depleted as the Grizzlies.
With the Mavs playing their second match in as many nights, I like Jackson to eclipse 16.5 points for the fifth time in six games.
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
Where to watch: FanDuel Sports Network Southeast-Memphis, KFAA
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is back after missing nine games, but in a matchup loaded with NBA stars, I'm focusing on a prop for a lesser-known role player.
Julian Strawther has capitalized on his increased opportunities. The Nuggets guard is averaging 15.6 points and shooting 37% from three over his eight starts, and he’s expected back in the starting lineup tonight.
OKC allows the fourth-most made threes per game, and Strawther has reached double digits in scoring in seven of his eight games while in an elevated role.
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Oct 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Eric Lauer (56) throws during the twelfth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game three of the 2025 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Today’s game isn’t on TV. I planned my day around getting to sit and watch tonight’s game. And it isn’t on TV. I guess I’m going out to shovel snow. It was +9 yesterday. I wore a light sweater. Overnight it snowed, a lot. The joys of living in Calgary.
Today’s lineups:
Today’s Lineups
BLUE JAYS
RAYS
Nathan Lukes – CF
Yandy Diaz – 1B
Davis Schneider – 2B
Jonathan Aranda – DH
Addison Barger – RF
Jake Fraley – RF
Jesus Sanchez – LF
Junior Caminero – 3B
Eloy Jimenez – DH
Cedric Mullins – CF
Leo Jimenez – SS
Chandler Simpson – LF
C.J. Stubbs – C
Ben Williamson – SS
Ben Cowles – 3B
Richie Palacios – 2B
Riley Tirotta – 1B
Hunter Feduccia – C
Eric Lauer – LHP
Ryan Pepiot – RHP
The Sporting News tells us that Davis Schneider had the best ‘challenge success rate’ of any Triple-A player. He challenged 12 times and was right 10 times. Davis was robbed on calls a lot last year. He should be able to benefit from the challenge system. I wonder if ability to get challenges right will play into a) roster choices and b) lineup choices.
It will be interesting to see who is good at challenges and who isn’t. I would imagine that there will be some players who are told not to challenge, but then, I think, for some, the challenge will almost be a reflex. That was wide, hit the helmet.
Early projections suggest a proposed salary cap will be around $260-$280 million, along with a floor of $140-$160 million, per @JonHeymanpic.twitter.com/Zx7hioETsw
If $280 million was it, there are five teams who would be above the cap (if it was this season). Dodgers ($382 million), Mets ($369 million), Yankees ($330 million), Phillies ($311 million) and Blue Jays ($300 million).
If $140 million was the floor, 11 teams would be below it ($160 million would add two more teams). A’s at $131 million all the way to Marlins at $78 million. A lot of teams would have to go on spending sprees. I believe those 11 teams are the reason why it is going to be hard to get this cap. I don’t think the Marlins are going to want to double their payroll.
But I’m often wrong.
I don’t have any particular memories of Froemming. Share if you do.
Bruce Froemming, an enduring umpire with a career of colorful confrontations, dies at 86 https://t.co/HYJSOf7SLU
With the 44th overall pick of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, the Chicago Blackhawks selected forward Roman Kantserov. When looking at how well Kantserov is playing this season in the KHL, it is clear that the Blackhawks must be ecstatic about picking him up.
Kantserov took a nice step in the right direction this past season with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, as he recorded 13 goals, 25 assists, and 38 points in 47 games with the KHL club. However, he has taken his game to a much higher level this season, and the truth is in his stats.
In 55 games this season with Metallurg Magnitogorsk, Kantserov has recorded 32 goals, 26 assists, 58 points, and a plus-21 rating. With numbers like these, the Blackhawks' skilled prospect has undoubtedly been having a big year in the KHL. This is especially so when noting that his 32 goals are the most in the entire KHL.
With how well Kantserov is playing in the KHL this season, there is no question that he is a prospect who Blackhawks fans should be excited about. The potential for him to be a very impactful NHL player is there, and it will be fascinating to see how he builds on his big season in the KHL from here.
Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Brandon Sproat (23) stretches during spring training workouts Monday, February 16, 2026, at American Family Fields of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona. | Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Milwaukee Brewers, having won their last three games after starting the spring slate with a four-game losing streak, will look to move back to .500 on Friday afternoon, as they take on the Chicago White Sox for the second time in a week (and second of two times this spring).
The Brewers dropped the previous matchup, 5-2, on Sunday afternoon in a split-squad day for the Crew. Akil Baddoo crushed a solo homer in that one, while Andrew Vaughn picked up a pair of singles. Baddoo is not in today’s lineup, but Vaughn will bat sixth as the DH.
Jackson Chourio leads off in left field, followed by Brice Turang, William Contreras, and Sal Frelick in the cleanup spot. Jake Bauers bats fifth and starts at first, followed by Vaughn, Luis Rengifo, Garrett Mitchell, and Joey Ortiz. Freddy-Peralta-trade-acquisition Brandon Sproat gets the start in his spring debut.
Sproat is expected to be followed by righties Easton McGee and Abner Uribe, as well as lefties Drew Rom and Shane Drohan (who was acquired in the Caleb Durbin trade a few weeks ago). This will mark Drohan’s spring debut, while McGee, Uribe, and Rom have all made one prior appearance. Per Todd Rosiak, Sproat and Drohan are both expected to throw two innings today.
Brandon Sproat and Shane Drohan will each throw two innings today against the White Sox at AFFOP.
Easton McGee, Abner Uribe and Drew Rom also on the list from MLB camp.
Prospects in uniform include Josh Adamczewski and Marco Dinges.
Chicago’s expected starter is right-hander Sean Burke in a split-squad day for the Sox. Given that this is a road game for them, most of their lineup consists of role players — including former Brewer Oliver Dunn and Wisconsin native Jarred Kelenic — with a few prospects scattered in.
In other news, Jacob Misiorowski is set to make his spring debut on Tuesday, March 3 against Team Great Britain in a World Baseball Classic tune-up game. That game will be broadcast via an audio feed on the Brewers website.
Jacob Misiorowski makes his spring debut in front of fans on Tuesday, March 3 when the Brewers host Team Great Britain in a WBC tune-up game.
DENVER , CO - FEBRUARY 25: Nikola Vucevic (4) of the Boston Celtics passes as Cameron Johnson (23), Julian Strawther (3) and Nikola Jokic (15) of the Denver Nuggets defend during the first quarter at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post) | Denver Post via Getty Images
The party rolls on. The Brooklyn Nets hosted the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night at Barclays Center. The Nets put up a fight, but the Spurs were too much to handle and gave the Nets their sixth consecutive loss.
The opponent tonight has a solid hold on the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Against all odds, the Boston Celtics have exceeded all sorts of expectations this season and will have homecourt advantage in the first round, at the very least. They didn’t help the cause after losing on the road to the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night.
Where to follow the game
YES Network on TV. WFAN on radio. Gotham Sports on streaming. Tip after 7:30 p.m. ET.
Injuries
Night two of a back-to-back you’d expect some players would sit but nope. For the fourth time in nine games, everyone is healthy. Drake Powell is on assignment with Long Island as are the three two-ways. Expect Ben Saraf (called up from Long Island) and Grant Nelson (on a two-way) to be available, but both are coming off a G League back-to-back.
Amazingly, Jayson Tatum is expected back soon. You should remember, dear reader, that Tatum tore his Achilles about nine months in the playoffs against the Knicks. He’s not playing tonight, but don’t be surprised if he’s back within the next month or so. Holy heck.
The game
Boston won games one and three while Brooklyn took game two. This is the last meeting between the two teams this year.
Can I admit something? I’m all in on the Jaylen Brown MVP candidacy! Yes yes I see the efficiency numbers aren’t the greatest especially considering how high his usage rate. And yeah, Nikola Jokic still walks this Earth. But ya know what? I don’t care! Brown’s got the Celtics contending and is the focal point of their attack. From Gio Rivera at Celtics Blog:
“Brown is proving himself as both an elite scorer and an elite playmaker. He’s opened the floor for teammates, veterans and newcomers alike, to excel in their roles while everyone embraces the next-man-up approach Mazzulla and the coaching staff have crafted. Without Tatum and offseason departures Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet, the Celtics have competed at a remarkable level, keeping them in the hunt for the No. 1 seed.“
Sounds like someone who should get a vote or two!
Boston is back home after a four game road trip that ended in Denver and the Nets are on the second leg of a back-to-back. Don’t be surprised if this one starts off slowly.
Three point variance is the name of this game. Both teams are top ten in attempts per game, but the Nets are 28th in percentage while the Celtics are 13th. A quick 12-2 run by Boston would get the crowd on tilt and have Brooklyn reeling in a hurry. Ball possession will be essential tonight as the Nets can’t afford to let possessions go to waste against a team this good.
Player to watch: Nikola Vucevic
An old face in a new place. Vucevic came over from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Anfernee Simons at the trade deadline. So far, his presence has been a welcome addition to the club.
“It’s been huge,” Neemias Queta recently said. “I’m trying to pick his brain every day, trying to figure out how I can get better with my game as well. Credit to him — I think he’s been a great addition in terms of spacing the floor, being able to be a threat down low. He’s going to rebound for sure, too. He’s going to be key for us late in the season, and we’re still trying to figure out a couple of things with him — how to get him in his best spots, and he’s trying to get loose too.”
Vucci Mane is back to doing his usual stuff on offense. He’s been in a bit of a rut in the past two games as he’s shot 5-18 from the field and 0-7 from three point range, but his ability to hit elbow jumpers, find open cutters, etc. will prove handy this spring. Having a post player like Vucevic should make life easy for everyone on the team.
For the first time in a while, the Nets won the rebound battle last night. They’re going to need a total team effort again as the C’s are fourth in the NBA in rebound rate. Assuming Nic Claxton plays, he’ll be responsible for battling with old foe Vucevic on the inside while also controlling the boards. He, Day’ron Sharpe, and Noah Clowney will look to help the Nets on the interior and prevent Boston from getting second and third opportunities on offense.
From the Vault
The Elimination Chamber is tomorrow night, and we are officially on the Road to WrestleMania!
The New York Mets starting pitcher Freddy Peralta throws during spring training on the back fields of Clover Park on Feb. 11, 2026, in Port St. Lucie. | CRYSTAL VANDER WEIT/TCPALM / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Carlos Mendoza officially announced Freddy Peralta as the Mets’ Opening Day starter earlier today. The skipper said it was “pretty clear” Peralta would be pitching at the front of the team’s rotation when he was acquired this offseason, adding “he earned it”.
Peralta was arguably the centerpiece move for a Mets offseason that saw the team part with long-time fan favorites like Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, and Edwin Díaz and add Bo Bichette, Luis Robert Jr., and Jorge Polanco, among others. The team traded top prospects Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams to acquire Peralta, as well as Tobias Myers, in January. Peralta, who served as the Brewers’ ace last season, led all NL starters with 17 wins and posted a 2.70 ERA, a 3.64 FIP, and a 1.08 WHIP, with 204 strikeouts in 176 2/3 innings. Peralta was an All-Star and finished fifth in Cy Young voting in 2025.
Peralta will become the fifth Mets pitcher to start on Opening Day over the last five season, following Clay Holmes, Jose Quintana, Max Scherzer, and Tylor Megill. Prior to that, Jacob deGrom started Opening Day from 2019-2021 for New York.
Peralta will presumably face Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Cy Young winner, when the Mets face the Pirates on March 26 at Citi Field to kick off the 2026 MLB season.
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 27: James Wood #29 of the Washington Nationals catches a fly ball during a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox at the Nationals Park on September 27, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
One thing I have noticed this spring is that James Wood has been playing a lot of right field. Two of his three games this spring have been in right field. This is notable because Wood exclusively played left field last season. It is telling that the Nats new regime at least wants to get a look at Wood in right field.
Mark Zuckerman was on this right away, and pointed it out when he was playing there in his first game of the spring. He also talked about this in depth on the Nats Chat podcast with Al Galdi. They talked about why this may be happening, as well as what Wood’s eventual defensive home could be.
The #Nats are playing actual games in Florida and James Wood has seen action in RF.
I think this is notable because it could shake up the outfield dynamic. Right now the Nats have four outfielders for three spots with Wood, Daylen Lile, Dylan Crews and Jacob Young. Lile played both corner spots last year, while Crews played center field and right field. Young is only a center fielder, though I am sure he could play the other spots if you wanted. However, putting Young in a corner is a waste.
If Wood is in right field, that would likely shift Lile to left field, which I would like. Lile is a better fit for left field in my opinion. A few years ago, Lile underwent Tommy John Surgery and since coming back his arm strength has been fringy. He posted a -2 arm value last year.
While Lile’s all around defense was an issue, the arm is something that is tougher to fix. Lile made defense a focus this offseason, and came into camp with a point to prove on that side of the ball. He has elite athleticism, but his weak arm and poor reads made him a problem in the outfield. The reads should get better over time, but it is tough to project arm strength. That makes left field the most natural home for him.
If Wood is in right and Lile is in left, Dylan Crews and Jacob Young will be battling for the center field role. There will be times where both play because either Wood or Lile will be DH’ing. However, the Nats are going to want Wood and Lile to get as many reps as possible in the outfield. That would mean either Young or Crews could be on the outside looking in.
Crews has gotten off to a shaky start this spring and Young has not played yet due to a minor injury. In an ideal world, you would want Crews to live up to his pedigree and grab that job from Young. Crews has a much higher ceiling, but Young’s elite defense gives him a solid floor. My plan would be for the two to share time in center field, while Crews occasionally plays right field when either Lile or Wood is at DH.
Even with these four, the outfield is crowded, but there are other candidates to make the roster too. Joey Wiemer, Christian Franklin and Robert Hassell III are all on the 40-man roster right now, but appear to be on the outside looking in. The Nats could carry five outfielders, but even if they do, the fifth guy will not get much playing time.
There are a lot of mouths to feed in the outfield and moving Wood to right field creates another wrinkle. Heading into the season, I figured the plan would be to have Wood in left, Crews in center and Lile in right. My other option would be to have Lile and Wood rotate between left and DH while Jacob Young plays center and Dylan Crews plays right.
This creates a new dynamic, and I do not think that is a bad thing. Wood did not seem like a natural fit in left field. He also has a far better arm than Daylen Lile, which is good for the right field spot. Wood may not have an 80 grade cannon like some right fielders, but it is an above average arm. There were a few times last year where he made really nice throws for outfield assists.
Players swapping corner outfield spots is honestly pretty common. It seems like Juan Soto goes from right field to left field every other year. Jayson Werth was another player who played both right and left field pretty frequently. Usually right field is the more demanding position, but it really depends on the ballpark.
If Wood is more comfortable in right field, they should play him there. He did not look natural in left field. However, it is important to remember that Wood mostly played center field in the minors. He did not get exposed to the corners much until Triple-A, and when he did, he mostly played right field.
The outfield alignment is going to be something Blake Butera will have to juggle throughout the season. Having a DH spot makes things a bit easier, but you also do not want to make Lile or Wood a full time DH at such a young age. Hopefully three outfielders emerge and force their way onto the lineup card.
Feb 26, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) drives to the basket against Brooklyn Nets forwards Michael Porter Jr. (17) and Noah Clowney (21) and guard Egor Demin (8) and center Nic Claxton (33) during the third quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Coming off a comeback win against the Toronto Raptors, the Spurs traveled to the Barclays Center to take on the Brooklyn Nets. From the start of the game, the Spurs started hot and did not slow down. They outscored the Nets 36-22 in the first quarter, and led by as much as 22 in the first half. The Nets would cut the deficit to single digits, but the Spurs’ defense, ball movement, and hot shooting overwhelmed this young Brooklyn team. After taking a 15-point lead into halftime, the Spurs kept their foot on the gas pedal in the third and took a 20-point lead into the fourth. The Spurs led by as much as 26, and ultimately defeated the Brooklyn Nets 126-110.
Julian Champagnie returned to his hometown of Brooklyn and scorched the Nets with 26 points (10-14 FG, 6-9 3PT), three steals, two blocks, two assists, and two rebounds. 19 of his 26 came in the first half, as he drained threes from the corners, wings, and even slashed his way to the cup. This performance is reminiscent of his career-high 36 points and 11 threes against the New York Knicks on New Year’s Eve; it just seemed like Julian could hardly miss. Guess who he plays next?
Rise up! Julian cuts to the basket and rises for a two-handed jam!
Stephon Castle dropped 18 points (10-12 FT), five assists, two rebounds, and two steals. Steph drew fouls and got himself to the line no matter who was in front of him. In the past, Steph usually has not gotten the benefit of the doubt when it comes to drawing contact, but the Nets could not guard him without fouling. Also, when they did not foul him, he drove right past and posterized multiple defenders!
On the board! Steph and Victor Wembanyama run the give-and-go as Steph cuts to the basket for the easy slam and the first points of the game!
De’Aaron Fox dropped 14 points (6-8 FG, 2-3 3PT), six assists, two steals, and a rebound. D-Fox played unselfishly and efficiently. He dished out six dimes and only missed two of his eight shots. For someone who is playing on a max contract, Fox has taken over the offense, usually if it is in the flow of the game. Playing with young star guards, efficient shooters, and lob threats (especially Wemby), it makes his job a bit easier.
CRAFTY! D-Fox spins off of Traore in transition and finishes off the backboard with a scoop layup!
Devin Vassell dropped 14 points (4-7 3PT), seven rebounds, five assists, and a steal. In his last three games, Dev is averaging 21 points per game, shooting 62% from the field and about 67% from three. In other words, Dev is on a hot streak. A consistent Dev for a team with many mouths to feed only raises this team’s ceiling.
DEV POSTER! Dev beats Demin on the backdoor cut and posterizes Drake Powell with one hand!
Keldon Johnson dropped 13 points (6-7 FG), four rebounds, and a steal. After having a couple of rough games and a shoulder injury, KJ bounced back in just 18 minutes. The instant spark plug took a bit to charge up, but he was fully charged on offense, missing only one of his seven shots. Look for him to continue to rehab his shoulder and get back to his 6MOTY form.
GET BIG! KJ posts up and spins off of Powell for a tough and-one finish over Day’Ron Sharpe!
Victor Wembanyama dropped 12 points (6-6 FT), eight rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks. Offensively, Vic has looked sluggish these last two games, struggling from the field and forcing up tough shots. However, on the defensive side, he had himself a pair of blocks and got into the passing lanes for steals. Hopefully, this two-day rest will come in handy for the rematch against the Knicks.
Just throw it up there! Wemby cuts to the paint for an easy runway to catch the pass from Dev for the alley-oop jam!
Dylan Harper dropped 12 points, seven assists, three rebounds, and a steal. Dyl had himself a Fox-like game. He took shots when he needed to and dished out dimes. Despite a few turnovers, Dyl was able to make the most of his extended playing time (29 minutes). He even got to show off his athleticism by recovering the loose ball and slamming it home with one hand!
All in all, this was a fantastic bow to seal the month of February undefeated. From where this team was a year ago, this season has been beyond most fans’ wildest dreams. Also important to point out: this is the first team in NBA history to go undefeated in a month while scoring at least 110 points a game (min. 10 games). Some tough tests approach this young team in March, starting with the NBA Cup Champs at MSG.
Finally, here are the full game highlights.
The Spurs take on the New York Knicks this Sunday at 12:00 P.M. (CST) on ABC.
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 29: Clint Capela #30 of the Houston Rockets and Vit Krejci #27 of the Atlanta Hawks hug before the game on January 29, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
For a while, it worked. In November, Ayton was the best version of himself, averaging 16.6 points and nine rebounds per game. Recently, though, his scoring has dropped, his defensive aggression has evaporated and he’s been benched during clutch games.
What’s wild about Ayton’s quote, besides the fact that he’s dissing one of his peers, is that Capela is exactly the kind of big man the Lakers desire. He’s an important part of the Rockets’ rotation and does all the little things that impact winning.
Ayton’s words caused quite a buzz on social media, so much so that Capela went on Instagram and encouraged Ayton to lock in with his floor generals.
It feels like Ayton has been told by everyone who has ever cheered for him to lock in, but it hasn’t ever consistently come to fruition. If things keep trending negatively in LA, you can add this stop as another in his career where the sizzle was far more enjoyable than the steak.
To make this entire situation even worse for Ayton, Capela outplayed him on Thursday night. Capela was hustling hard, helping the Rockets beat the Magic 113-108.
Ayton, on the other hand, was rather pedestrian during his performance in LA’s loss to Phoenix.
The box score comparison between the two bigs matched the eye test. Capela ended the night with four points, six rebounds and two blocks in his 17 minutes off the bench. Ayton had two points and four rebounds in his 23 minutes as a starter.
Capela took the petty route with his response to Ayton, and considering who he was reacting to, most won’t have a problem with it.
Also, Capela’s right. Ayton does have to lock in, and playing more like Capela would be better for everyone involved.
As has been true for a lot of his career, Ayton just doesn’t seem to get it.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 22: Marvin Bagley III #35 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 22, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Depending on your investment in the NBA Draft Lottery — which, you’re here on this page, so — we’ve entered a very tense time in the Dallas Mavericks’ season. Every season there is hand-wringing about the state of tanking in the league. So much so that we’re getting mixed rumors of NBA officials attending player MRIs just to verify that the player is, in fact, injured.
If you’re catching up, Friday’s were reserved for scanning the media landscape in our NBA Power Rankings Watch. Now, the Mavericks are more focused on moving down than up, so last week we shifted our sights to the lottery. Ten or more teams are currently in a fight for their life, jockeying for position to have greater odds in the lottery pull for one of the deepest draft classes in recent years. Draft order will be determined May 10. And until the end of the Mavericks’ season on April 12, we’ll be keeping a close eye on this board for the final 24 games. Cooper Flagg’s future running mate is on the way.
Lottery standings
Last week we identified that Mavericks fans should watch closely on results from the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies, the two teams clustered with Dallas in the tank standings. We’re now keeping casual watch on the New Orleans Pelicans (three game win streak) and the Chicago Bulls (11 [ELEVEN] game losing streak) as well. Don’t be surprised if the last six weeks of the season groups these teams closer together.
For now, no real shuffling to the standings themselves. The Mavericks went 2-2 last week, with the team facing several other lottery bound opponents there will be plenty of roster mischief in the days ahead. The Jazz went 0-3, creating some space between themselves and Dallas. The Grizzlies went 1-3, at one point tying the Mavericks by record. For all these teams, it might be worth taking into account remaining schedule strength: Mavericks (3rd toughest remaining schedule), Grizzlies (7th), Jazz (12th), Bulls (14th), Pelicans (19th).
Weekly schedule
Until New Orleans falls further back or Chicago “jumps” forward, we’re focus in on the three teams from last week. You’ll notice some very key head-to-head matchups, mixed with some games against teams in the top four of the lottery standings. A pretty key week:
Dallas Mavericks: vs. Memphis Grizzlies, vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, @ Charlotte Hornets, @ Orlando Magic
Utah Jazz: vs. New Orleans Pelicans, vs. Denver Nuggets, @ Philadelphia 76ers, @ Washington Wizards
Each week we’ll take one spin around the block at tankathon.com and see where the chips fall. As last week brought one large swing of chaos, this week’s chaos was of a different sort. Three teams, including the Mavericks, jumped into the top four of the draft.
You can’t ask for much more from the lottery in this moment.
JUPITER, FL - MARCH 14: Quinn Matthews #68 of the St. Louis Cardinals pitches during the game against the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium on Friday, March 14, 2025 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Jared Blais/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The St. Louis Cardinals prepare to do Spring Training battle with the New York Mets on Friday, February 27, 2026. According to MLB.com, Quinn Matthews will start the game for St. Louis while the New York Mets will have Freddy Peralta on the mound. Here are the lineups according to the Cardinals website:
KANSAS CITY, MO - CIRCA 1986: George Brett #5 and Bo Jackson #16 of the Kansas City Royals circa 1986 Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Sporting News via Getty Images via Getty Images) | Sporting News via Getty Images
I didn’t care for baseball as a young child. I knew the Royals were in the World Series, but I was more enamored with the guy in the red uniform doing backflips when he ran on the field than I was with any Royals players. At school, we were asked to draw a picture of our favorite Royals player. I asked my teacher who played left field for the Royals, since that was the position I played in t-ball (reflecting my playing ability at the time). She told me Lonnie Smith. I didn’t know what he looked like, so I drew a white guy with curly blonde hair. Lonnie Smith is not a white guy with curly blonde hair
But in 1987, my next-door neighbor set up a small TV in his garage and we watched the American League Championship Series between the Twins and Tigers on that thing. The Tigers are my ancestral team – my dad grew up in Detroit (attending Al Kaline camp!), and I was born there before we moved to KC when I was a tot. So I was rooting for them and slowly getting hooked on baseball. That offseason, I read everything about baseball I could get my hands on, and when the next season rolled around, I was a rabid fan.
I am pretty certain I could name every player on the 1988 Royals from memory, from Bo Jackson and George Brett down to Rey Palacios and José de Jesús. It was a fun team to follow with Bo becoming a superstar, George still in his prime, recognizable vets like Willie Wilson and Frank White, exciting young players like Danny Tartabull and Kevin Seitzer, and a terrific pitching staff with Bret Saberhagen, Mark Gubicza, and quirky submarining closer Dan Quisenberry.
But they floundered around .500 much of the year and were overwhelmed by an emerging mini-dynasty in Oakland, the “Bash Brothers.” They won 84 games, finishing a distant third place, 19.5 games back.
Still, I had watched as many games as I could (it was like 30-40 games on TV back in those days, kids!) and listened to the rest on my radio, sometimes cradling it in bed for the late-night West Coast games, drifting off to sleep as Denny Matthews described Charlie Leibrandt’s battle against Claudell Washington. I read the Star sports section on a regular basis – Dick Kaegel, Gib Twyman, and Jonathan Rand in those days. I asked for Royals Starting Lineup figures for Christmas. I got a Bo Jackson poster in my room. I got my first Royals cap.
That was my first season following the Royals. What was yours? What was the team that got you hooked?
LAKELAND, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 25: Wenceel Pérez #46 of the Detroit Tigers bats during the second inning of a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Lakeland, Florida. (Photo by Mark Taylor/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Kyle Kuzma
GG Jackson Jr.
Julian Strawther
