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Trail Blazers vs Knicks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

The New York Knicks will try to run their winning streak to five games as they host the Portland Trail Blazers at Madison Square Garden tonight.

New York’s defense has been on point over the past week after some earlier lapses, and I’m counting on that trend to continue as I back the Under in my Trail Blazers vs. Knicks predictions.

Find out more in my free NBA picks for Friday, January 30.

Trail Blazers vs Knicks prediction

Trail Blazers vs Knicks best bet: Under 224.5 (-110)

The New York Knicks recently went through a stretch in which they won just two of 11 games from New Year’s Eve through January 19. At the time, it seemed the lack of defense was the problem, with opponents averaging 117.2 ppg during that stretch.

New York has turned that around in a heartbeat ever since. The Knicks have won four in a row, with opponents averaging only 88.5 ppg in those contests, and three of the four have been held below 100 points.

Yes, those numbers are skewed by the ridiculous 120-66 win over the Brooklyn Nets last week, but the team does appear to be playing with renewed urgency.

That sets up a tough matchup for the Portland Trail Blazers. Portland might like to run the court, but they are near the bottom of the league in offensive efficiency (109.9), and have been held below 100 points in two of their last three games – all of which have gone to the Under.

Overall, the Knicks have now hit the Under in six straight games, while the Blazers have done so in four of their last five. But beyond the trends, it’s New York’s defensive effort that is likely to define this game.

I’m taking the Under tonight.

Trail Blazers vs Knicks same-game parlay

I’m pairing the Under with the Knicks to cover in my SGP, as New York’s renewed defensive intensity has led it to cover in each of its last four games.

I’m also taking Mikal Bridges (16.0 ppg) to hit his scoring total of 15.5 points, as he’s hit that number in each of his last two games, including a 30-point performance against the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday.

Trail Blazers vs Knicks SGP

  • Under 224.5
  • Knicks -7.5
  • Mikal Bridges Over 15.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: Dishing!

OG Anunoby is only averaging 2.3 assists per game this year, but has dished out at least three in three of his last four games during the Knicks’ winning streak.

Trail Blazers vs Knicks SGP

  • Under 224.5
  • Knicks -7.5
  • Mikal Bridges Over 15.5 points
  • OG Anunoby Over 2.5 assists

Trail Blazers vs Knicks odds

  • Spread: Trail Blazers +7 (-110) | Knicks -7 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Trail Blazers +222 | Knicks -270
  • Over/Under: Over 227 (-110) | Under 227 (-110)

Trail Blazers vs Knicks betting trend to know

The Under is 6-0 in New York’s last six games overall. Find more NBA betting trends for Trail Blazers vs. Knicks.

How to watch Trail Blazers vs Knicks

LocationMadison Square Garden, New York, NY
DateFriday, January 30, 2026
Tip-off7:30 p.m. ET
TVBlazerVision, MSG Sportsnet

Trail Blazers vs Knicks latest injuries

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What An Epic Night From Cooper Flagg And Kon Knueppel!

DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 29: Kon Knueppel #7 of the Charlotte Hornets shoots the ball as Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks plays defense during the game on January 29, 2026 at American Airlines Center 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Cooper Neill/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Thursday night in Dallas, Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel had their first NBA game against each other as the Charlotte Hornets visited the Dallas Mavericks and man, did they both ball out.

Flagg finished with 49 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and one block while Knueppel racked up 34 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal.

None it was selfish or gunning: Flagg shot 20-29 (68.9%) while Knueppel hit 10-16 (62.5%) and all of it came in the flow of the game for both.

It was an interesting stop in the Rookie of the Year race, which will go to one or the other, unless they split the award, which would be amazing.

At this point, on an individual basis, you might have to give to Flagg, but in terms of impact on the team, Knueppel has the edge. The nature of his game has persuaded everyone to buy in and he has transformed the Hornets into something unusual. We heard today that with Knueppel, LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Moussa Diabate and Miles Bridges starting, the Hornets are 10-1 and their offensive efficiency with that group is off the charts good.

Here are some videos of last night’s game and some links below that.

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The quiet routine that turned Dillon Brooks into a 40-point weapon

Jan 29, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) celebrates a three point shot against the Detroit Pistons in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Sometimes there is a calm before the storm. A moment of clarity before chaos ensues. An instant where anticipation creeps in and you have to grab your emotions by the collar before they sprint off without you.

It’s like Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight, right before the drums crash down. You feel it coming. You anticipate your air drum solo. The note hangs in the room. You are ready, but you wait. There is beauty in the pause. Because on one side lives restraint, and on the other lives release.

Well, the hurt doesn’t show, but the pain still grows
It’s no stranger to you and me…

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – JANUARY 27: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the national anthem before the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Mortgage Matchup Center on January 27, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Jeremy Chen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Dillon Brooks knows that space well. You see it before every game. The vacant stare. Eyes locked somewhere past the hardwood, past the noise, past the stakes. It looks like intimidation, but it is not. It is meditation. It is breath control. It is taking in the sights and the sounds, the crowd humming, the moment stretching. Calm first, chaos later. Control now, eruption soon. The drum solo is coming. He is preparing himself to meet it head-on.

It was an unbelievably impressive effort by Dillon on Thursday night against the Detroit Pistons. Against the Eastern Conference’s best team, and the second-best team in the league by defensive rating, he had a night. A career night. 40 points. 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. 10-of-12 at the free throw line. Add 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 stocks, and you are staring at the most complete game of his career.

Then came the contrast.

As he walked into the postgame press conference, the game ball tucked calmly against him, the chaos disappeared.

This is a man who lives on the edge during games, who thrives in disruption and confrontation, suddenly quiet. Grounded. Almost serene. No bravado. No chest pounding. Even after a performance he will remember forever and the leather under his arm to prove it, he spoke softly. He reflected on that moment before the storm. The meditation. The calm that makes the chaos possible.

“It’s just me focusing on my breathing, trying to calm myself down before the game starts,” Brooks noted of his pregame ritual. “Just getting into like feeling the whole crowd and the whole like atmosphere of the game.”

It’s a “Medataive thing”, he added. “It puts me in my mode.”

He was in his mode on Thursday night, all right. His 40-point performance surpassed his previous career high of 37, which came in a loss as a member of the Grizzlies in 2021.

But that stare comes from somewhere else too. Yes, it is meditative. But it also serves another purpose entirely. Dillon admitted as much afterward. He talked about being a kid and watching Iron Mike Tyson. That is where it started.

Oh “When I was a kid, I used to watch Mike Tyson,” he said. “That’s probably where I got the stare from, too, was probably Mike Tyson.”

That is the contrast. Stillness paired with menace. Meditation paired with aggression. A man at peace who is fully prepared to drag you into chaos. Dillon is not staring into nothing. He is staring into you. And once he senses the balance tilt, once he feels the fear creep in, the switch flips. Calm gives way to attack. And by then, it is already too late.

Dillon the Villain, right?

It was Villain t-shirt night, after all, and his head coach entered the press room donning one. When Suns’ sideline reporter Amanda Pflugrad said, “Love the shirt,” Jordan Ott responded.

“Yeah, I do, too, after that. Like I said, we can give it away every night.”

“He had a great night, obviously, career high…and we needed all of them.”

That Brooksian edge does not live on adrenaline alone. It is built. Repeated. Earned in empty gyms when nobody is watching. “There’s a piece that you guys don’t get to see is like off outside of the game,” Ott said. “How he communicates on the court in practice or shootaround, in our film sessions.”

“I saw Dillon was working last night in the gym,” he added.

Brooks pointed to Kobe Bryant as the blueprint. He talked about watching Kobe Muse a couple nights earlier, soaking in that footage. The idea that readiness is not a switch you flip on game night. It is something you drag with you every day. Off days included. Especially off days.

That is the contrast again. Chaos on the floor, discipline behind the scenes. The snarling competitor versus the quiet worker. While others rest, he shoots. While the noise fades, he sharpens. Kobe understood that separation is created when effort becomes routine. Dillon has taken that lesson and made it personal. Work now, fear later. Preparation first, eruption second.

I happened to be sitting courtside during shootaround, talking with former Solar Panel Podcast host and PHNX GM Greg Esposito, when Mat Ishbia walked up. He acknowledged the work we do at Bright Side, and I thanked him in turn for giving me reasons to write positive things. About this team. About the way they play. He smiled and fired back a familiar refrain. “Well, I told you guys.” You damn right he did.

Behind him stood Dillon Brooks. Not listening. Not watching. Locked into his routine. Multiple basketballs pounding the floor at once, a blur of motion and intent, hands busy, mind elsewhere. Work before words. Process before praise. A few minutes later, he drifted to his usual spot. Feet set. Breathing controlled. Eyes distant. Living fully in the moment before the moment.

Contrast does the rest. Quiet preparation versus loud results. Empty gym habits colliding with a packed arena payoff. That calm turned into the best scoring night of his career. Not a fluke. Not a surprise. A culmination. In a game that was not only enjoyable to watch, but a genuine pleasure to witness. Chaos earned. Release delivered.

I can feel it coming in the air tonight…

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Pistons vs. Warriors preview: Ending the West Coast swing in San Francisco

If the Pistons needed a wakeup call about the flaws of their roster, this West Coast trip has been a bit of an eye-opener. After nearly losing to the Denver Nuggets due to a lack of shooting and discipline at the end of the game, the luck ran out for the Pistons as they once again struggled to hit outside shots before getting run off the floor against the Phoenix Suns last night.

It wasn’t just the lack of shooting that has pretty much been a concern all season, but the Pistons were out-hustled, out-worked, and put in their place by the short-handed Suns, which also happened against the even more short-handed Nuggets. Luckily, they have a chance to bounce back against the Golden State Warriors tonight on ESPN.

The Warriors have been hot the last month, but they also recently lost Jimmy Butler to a torn ACL, so they are definitely vulnerable and it provides an opportunity for the Pistons to finish off this road trip with a winning record.

Game Vitals

Where: Chase Center in San Francisco, CA
When: Friday, January 30 at 10 pm EST
Watch: ESPN
Odds: Golden State (-1.5)

Analysis

The Warriors really looked like they were finally starting to put things together to go on one last run as Steph Curry reaches the end of his legendary career, but a torn ACL for Jimmy Butler has put the Warriors in a position where they pretty much have to shoot for a big move at the deadline to try to keep their season on track.

Don’t get me wrong, the Warriors are still a good team without Jimmy Butler simply due to the extensive Championship experience for their core of Steph Curry and Draymond Green, but missing a 2nd option that can take pressure off of Curry on offense while also taking pressure off Green on defense in Butler is a huge loss.

The Pistons and Warriors are actually on a very similar level offensively this season, but the Pistons obviously have the edge defensively. But, the one thing the Pistons do not have is somebody that can take over a game shooting the ball like Steph Curry, who is still averaging 27.3 points per game at 37 years old and just barely shooting under 40 percent from beyond the arc.

The build of the Warriors without Jimmy Butler is actually pretty similar to the Pistons where they have Steph Curry to carry the offense like the Pistons have Cade Cunningham and they surround him with role players that can defend, but leave a little to be desired on offense. They aren’t quite as poor at shooting from beyond the arc as the Pistons are, but in a playoff setting, not having that secondary creator to take some pressure off of your main guy is a huge problem to overcome.

I haven’t canvased the rest of the league to officially confirm, but I think I can go out on a limb and say the Warriors have the oldest starting frontcourt in the NBA with the 39 year-old Al Horford and 35 year-old Draymond Green. Both players are still very solid defenders, but their best days on that end of the court are behind them.

The one positive from last night’s game against the Suns was their inability to slow down Jalen Duren, which was probably the solution for the Pistons’ 2nd half offensive struggles, but he didn’t end up playing as much as he should. Peak Horford and Green would have no issue with slowing down Duren, but he has a huge athletic advantage over both of them that he will have to take advantage of if the Pistons want to win.

In reality, the key for the Pistons is to simply not shoot as poorly as they have on this West Coast road trip. They were 6-of-29 from beyond the arc against the Suns and 6-of-31 against the Nuggets. That isn’t going to cut it against some of the better teams in the West no matter how short-handed they may be. The Pistons do not have a ton of shooters, but Duncan Robinson being 1 of his last 14 from beyond the arc is a huge reason for the shooting numbers for the Pistons.

They have gotten by this year with Duncan Robinson as the main spacing threat and it has been able to work against so many different teams because of the Pistons dominant defense and ability to control the glass and the paint, but when they are not controlling the paint and Robinson is shooting like this, everything looks ugly on offense. They have not been able to do either thing against both the Nuggets and Suns, which is why they had to squeak out a win against the Nuggets and were run off the court by the Suns.

The solution is going to probably have to be sacrificing some defense for more shooting, but that also messes with the Pistons identity, one which has been very clearly established this season.

It will be interesting to see how Trajan Langdon balances that, but for now, the Pistons have an important game against the Warriors with a chance to head home with a winning record on this road trip.

Lineups

Detroit Pistons (34-12): Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Golden State Warriors (27-22): Steph Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Draymond Green, Al Horford

Question of the Day

How concerned are you with the Pistons shooting? Does a drastic move need to be made at the deadline to fix it?

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Tampa Bay Rays announce 2026 Spring Training invitees

MONTGOMERY, AL - MAY 16: Brody Hopkins #23 of the Montgomery Biscuits pitches during the game between the Biloxi Shuckers and the Montgomery Biscuits at Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium on Friday, May 16, 2025 in Montgomery, Alabama. (Photo by Natalie Buchanan/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images)

The Tampa Bay Rays have announced their non-roster invitees to Spring Training and the list is made up of several top prospects and former top draft picks as well as several players with big league experience.

The most notable player to receive an invite is Brody Hopkins, whom many consider to be the team’s top pitching prospect. The 24-year is considered a sensational athlete and Baseball America thinks his curveball may be one of the best in the entire game. The hurler was a 6th round draft by the Seattle Mariners in 2023 and then he was dealt to the Rays at the 2024 trade deadline in the deal that ended Randy Arozarena’s much beloved tenure in Tampa Bay. This past season, Hopkins compiled a 2.72 | 3.33 FIP with a 28.7 K% & 12.2 BB% over 116 IP in Double-A; he is projected to begin the 2026 season in Triple-A.

Hopkins is joined by a couple of other exciting starting pitching prospects in the Rays system: Ty Johnson and TJ Nichols. Both had incredible seasons in 2026 with Johnson effectively being one of the best starting pitchers in all of minor league baseball.

Other notables include former first round draft picks Brayden Taylor and Xavier Isaac, both of whom had years to forget in 2025. Taylor dealt with poor performance all season long in Double-A while Xavier Isaac underwent surgery in July to remove a brain tumor, ending his season.

As of now, the Rays will have 25 non-roster invitees joining the players already on the 40-man roster in camp, giving the Rays spring roster of 65 players. Several players will be partaking in the World Baseball Classic and thus will be later arrivals.

Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to hold their first workouts on Thursday, February 12th while the rest of the roster will officially begin on Tuesday, February 17th. The Rays will play their first game on Saturday, February 21st against the Atlanta Braves at 1:05.

The full list of non-roster invites are below

  • PITCHERS:
    • Luis Guerrero, Brody Hopkins, Ty Johnson, Trevor Martin, TJ Nichols, Austin Vernon, Andrew Wantz, Kodi Whitley, Logan Workman, Cam Booser, John Rooney, Chase Solesky, Jake Woodford
  • CATCHERS:
    • Blake Sabol, Logan Driscoll, Tatem Levins, Kenny Piper
  • INFIELDERS:
    • Logan Davidson, Raynel Delgado, Gregory Barrios, Xavier Isaac, Cooper Kinney, Tre’ Morgan, Brayden Taylor
  • OUTFIELDERS: 
    • Edward Olivares

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Why new Giant Harrison Bader is confident good things to come in San Francisco

Why new Giant Harrison Bader is confident good things to come in San Francisco originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO — When Harrison Bader would come to Oracle Park as an opponent, he would head out to center field and watch as balls took random bounces off the bricks and walls in Triples Alley. Bader wouldn’t have to worry much about learning the intricacies, knowing that he would be gone in three or four days. 

“Now, I don’t really have the luxury,” he said on a Zoom call Friday night. “I’m definitely going to map out that field as well as I can.”

The Giants know that Bader will quickly get up to speed defensively. A former Gold Glove Award winner, he’ll start in center field, and he’s being counted on to help a bad outfield defense take massive steps in 2026.

Bader could be headed for the bottom third of the lineup, but the Giants certainly don’t view him as a glove-only player. The 31-year-old hit a career-high 17 homers last season and posted a 122 wRC+ easily the highest of his career. On Friday, president of baseball operations Buster Posey said he’s confident there’s “staying power” to the offensive improvements. 

Bader feels the same way, in part because he’s fully healthy after adductor surgery in 2023, and in part because he feels his approach has come a long way after nine years in the big leagues. 

“I think I just kind of ran with the feel,” he said of last season’s breakthrough. “We also were just doing really good things last year in terms of just understanding what the pitcher is trying to do to us and identifying what his strong suits are and making that our Plan A. I have this old-school coach (from college at the University of Florida) who I can hear his voice in my head … he always said you’ve got to go to the plate looking for what you’re going to get, not what you want to see.

“I think just being adjustable, making box adjustments, trusting your eyes and setting yourself on the track to be successful offensively, if you just repeat that over the course of a season and you remain healthy, which I did last year, you’ll have good results. I’m just going to build off of last year and build off the success and continue to work on all the things that I got exposed to, because nobody is perfect in this game, and I got exposed last year as well. It was a lot of work. It was a day by day process.”

While few free-agent position players choose Oracle Park, Bader actually might be a good fit for the dimensions. He doesn’t have a long track record of above-average success at the plate, and he can be strikeout-heavy at times. However, he’s also a right-handed pull hitter, and the ballpark is much more fair to those types than the Brandon Belts of the world. Bader’s bat speed has increased in recent years, showing physical skills that shouldn’t decline too much over a two-year contract. 

Bader also has a good track record in San Francisco, albeit in a small sample size. In 15 career games at Oracle Park, he has a .791 OPS and four homers. While those outfield walls might be tricky, another part of the ballpark has always helped him. 

“I think the biggest thing, regardless of the field, is how well you see the baseball,” he said. “For whatever reason, I do happen to see the ball very well (at Oracle Park) because the backdrop is set up very well there, so that certainly helps.”

The Giants believe Bader will be a good fit offensively at Oracle, but that will be determined over two years. There are no doubts about the way he will fit with Tony Vitello’s style, though. 

A native of New York, Bader is known as the kind of tough play-with-your-hair-on-fire outfielder that Vitello has loved in the past. He said he has heard good things about his new manager and is confident that he’ll be able to make the transition to MLB.

“I’m excited for him,” Bader said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for us all. I just can’t wait to be in the dugout with him, just taking this thing one game at a time, just trying to win after nine innings. That’s it. He has a lot of experience with that at a different level, but the game is the same at every level.

“There’s a little more speed, a little more media, a little more fans, but it’s the same game. He knows how to do it, and I’m excited to be part of his group.”

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NHL Player Props & Best Bets for Today, January 30: Elvis Rocks the United Center

There’s a standalone game on the ice tonight, featuring the Chicago Blackhawks hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets at the United Center.

I’ve got a trio of NHL player props for Friday, January 30, and Columbus netminder Elvis Merzlikins headlines my betting card.

Best NHL player prop bets today

PlayerBet99
Blue Jackets Elvis Merzlikins Over 23.5 saves<<-105>>
Blackhawks Spencer Knight Over 25.5 saves<<-125>>
Blue Jackets Ivan Provorov Over 1.5 shots<<-130>>

Get a first bet encore up to $800 — no BET99 promo code neededGet a first bet encore up to $800 with BET99 bonus code COVERSNHL.
(not available in Ontario)

Our best NHL player props for Friday, January 30

Take a look at our best bets and expert analysis below.

Prop #1: Elvis Merzlikins Over 23.5 saves

-105 at BET99

Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Elvis Merzlikins has won each of his past three full starts, posting a .922 save percentage and stopping at least 24 shots in each game.

With Columbus allowing the second-most shots per game (30.6), the Chicago Blackhawks will keep Merzlikins busy on home ice.

  • Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NHL Network, Sportsnet

Prop #2: Spencer Knight Over 25.5 saves

-125 at BET99

The Blackhawks allow the seventh-most shots per game (29.7), while the Blue Jackets generate the third-most (30.3), so I expect Spencer Knight to be busy tonight.

Chicago's tendy has been solid all season, posting a .910 SV%, a 2.59 GAA, and 27.03 goals saved above expected across 36 contests.

  • Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NHL Network, Sportsnet

Prop #3: Ivan Provorov Over 1.5 shots

-130 at BET99

Columbus defenseman Ivan Provorov has recorded two or more shots in 11 of his past 14 games while logging a monster 25:07 of ice time.

His 6.14 shots per 60 minutes during the run also rank 13th among all regular blueliners, and Chicago is currently allowing the most shots per outing to D-men.

  • Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NHL Network, Sportsnet

These props are available now at BET99, one of our best betting sites.

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

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The Cavs are fixing their court after Luka Dončić injury scare

CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots over Craig Porter Jr. #9 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the second quarter at Rocket Arena on January 28, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Luka Dončić was almost seriously hurt in LA’s loss in Cleveland.

He took a stepback three and fell because the floor was raised, injuring his ankle. This is an uncommon scenario in the NBA. Typically, the court extends to the point where falling off it would be impossible.

Luka had to be taken out of the game, but luckily, he was able to return. However, he is now listed as questionable for the Lakers’ upcoming contest against the Wizards due to this ankle injury.

After the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick stated that the raised floor was a hazard.

It seems that the league agrees with Redick. According to an article by Joe Vardon of The Athletic, the NBA and the Cavs are seeking solutions to prevent other players from being injured like this.

“While improvements have been made to the arena floor over the years to address this issue, the NBA and the Cavaliers are revisiting the situation given the incident last night,” a league spokesperson said Thursday night.

This isn’t the first time this season Luka has dealt with a floor causing him problems. Dončić complained about the NBA Cup court being slippery and the Lakers sent it for repairs. LA never played on that floor again.

It’s unfortunate that it took Luka almost getting seriously injured to resolve this issue, but if it means no other player has to deal with this, then something good came out of this situation.

Further in Vardon’s piece, he provided some more details on the talks the Cavs have had with the NBA regarding their court.

The discussions Thursday between the league and the Cavs were taken up mutually, a league spokesperson said. Earlier Thursday, a Cavs spokesman told The Athletic, “The basketball court layout and design at Rocket Arena is fully compliant with NBA rules and has been in place for [20-plus] years, with ongoing collaboration and regular evaluation between our organization, the league and independent flooring experts to support player safety and performance. We constantly evaluate every aspect of the arena to ensure the highest standards of fan experience are achieved and (the) safest environment for players, team members, performers and guests is maintained.”

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While the court may follow the rules, that doesn’t mean it’s safe enough. Clearly, it’s very easy for a player to fall off as Luka did. When you watch the play, it’s not like he was pushed or made a ridiculous move that is uncommon in a basketball game.

These guys are playing a sport and injury risk is always possible. But a court shouldn’t be a reason for increased danger. This needs to get fixed, and it appears that’s going to happen sooner rather than later.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

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Dodgers rotation will take a village to get through season, like always

TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 18: Tyler Glasnow #31 and Blake Snell #7 of the Los Angeles Dodgers try Japanese snacks in the dugout prior to the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs at Tokyo Dome on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Yuki Taguchi/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Part of the spring training ritual is figuring out which pitchers are a little behind the curve, and who might not be ready for the start of the season. It’s inevitable and happens with every team.

The first domino for the Dodgers fell on Thursday, when Blake Snell at a team community event at Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach said his offseason throwing program has been limited after a taxing final few months of 2025. That puts his readiness for opening day in question.

This shouldn’t be a surprise with Snell, a classic excellent-when-healthy pitcher who rarely pitches a full season. He has pitched at least 130 innings twice in his 10 major league seasons (2018, 2023), and won a Cy Young Award in both years.

Don’t take this as a knock on Snell. The Dodgers knew what they were getting into when they signed Snell to a five-year contract. Just like they knew who they were getting when they traded for and extended Tyler Glasnow, who has pitched 100 innings three times in his 10 seasons. Both Snell and Glasnow were healthy down the stretch last season and into October, and the Dodgers rode their rotation to a second straight championship.

Last year was the idealization of the Dodgers’ annual goal, to have the big names all healthy in October. This strategy also requires the depth necessary to fill in the gaps for the six months of the regular season. To that end, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman on the Dodgers Territory podcast Thursday said of the 2026 roster, “It’s the deepest and best collection of arms I’ve ever been around.”

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Snell, Shohei Ohtani, Glasnow, Emmet Sheehan, and Roki Sasaki are the top six on the depth chart, but there are plenty of other starting pitchers potentially available as well.

Gavin Stone and River Ryan are back after rehabbing from surgeries and missing all of 2025. Justin Wrobleski and Ben Casparius have pitched in hybrid roles in the majors, and could start if needed. Landon Knack has another year of options to fill in when called upon.

If recent history is any guide, the Dodgers will need all of these pitchers, and likely more, in 2026.

Dustin May and Clayton Kershaw were second and third on the 2025 Dodgers in innings pitched during the regular season. May was dealt at the trade deadline, and Kershaw pitched only twice in 17 postseason games. In 2024, Stone and Glasnow were the only Dodgers to top 90 innings and neither were available in the postseason.

At least seven Dodgers pitchers have started 10 games in each of the last five seasons, and at least 10 Dodgers have started five games in each of the last four seasons. In each of the last two years, only two Dodgers started 20 games during the regular season.

YearStarters20 starts10 starts5 startsTop 6 starts
2025172711116
2024172810112
2023174810111
2022124710131
202119378128

Those current top six on the 2026 depth chart combined for 93 starts last season. In the last five seasons, the most the top six starters combined for is 131 starts, with an average of 120 starts per year. That still leaves a lot of other starts to account for. But the Dodgers are used to that.

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NBA Picks: Our Expert NBA Moneyline Parlay Bet for January 30

Finding the right value on a Friday night slate is all about identifying trends and mismatches before the market catches up. For this January 30 lineup, I’ve put together a three-leg moneyline parlay that balances momentum with favorable matchups.

My NBA picks start at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks are looking to capitalize on their home-court advantage against the Blazers. From there, we head to the Bayou for a Southwest Division showdown between the Pelicans and Grizzlies, before wrapping things up in Phoenix, where the Suns will try to extend their current winning streak to three games.

This parlay has been BOOSTED from +598 to +708 by our friends at bet365.

NBA moneyline parlay for January 30

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Knicks Knicks moneyline

Grizzlies Grizzlies moneyline

Suns Suns moneyline

+708 at bet365

Blazers Portland Trail Blazers vs Knicks New York Knicks

  • Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Location: Madison Square Garden
  • TV: NBA League Pass, KUNP, MSG
  • Pick: Knicks (-280)

If you’re looking to slow down the Trail Blazers’ offense, it starts with Deni Avdija—and that’s where OG Anunoby becomes a major asset. Avdija relies on his size and strength to bully smaller defenders and get downhill, but that approach won’t work against Anunoby, who can match his physicality step for step. It’s simply a brutal matchup for Avdija.

On the other end of the floor, the Knicks can also exploit Donovan Clingan. While Clingan is an elite rim protector, he’ll struggle to defend Karl-Anthony Towns on the perimeter. If Clingan is consistently pulled out of the paint to guard KAT, the lane opens up for Jalen Brunson to operate. There’s a lot of juice at -280, but given these matchup edges, this number should be even shorter—closer to -345.

Grizzlies Memphis Grizzlies vs Pelicans New Orleans Pelicans

  • Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Location: Smoothie King Center
  • TV: NBA League Pass, FDSN, GCSEN
  • Pick: Grizzlies (+125)

The Memphis Grizzlies are +125 on the moneyline on Friday against the New Orleans Pelicans, and at that price point, I’m hitting the button, as I believe they should be trading closer to a -115 favorite.

The injury report is long for the Grizzlies, but as long as Jaren Jackson Jr. is on the floor, they’re in good shape in this matchup. JJJ is someone who can move his feet against Zion Williamson and meet him at the rim to protect it. Not only do the Grizzlies have a defender for Zion, but the wingspan of Vince Williams Jr. and the length of Jaylen Wells could also be disruptive to Trey Murphy’s shooting.

The wrong team is favored in this matchup—give me the Grizzlies on the moneyline.

Cavaliers Cleveland Cavaliers vs Suns Phoenix Suns

  • Time: 9:00 p.m. ET
  • Location: Mortgage Matchup Center
  • TV: NBA League Pass, FDSN, KTVK, KPHE
  • Pick: Suns (+145)

The Phoenix Suns will be without Devin Booker, but let’s not overlook the fact that the Cleveland Cavaliers are also missing key pieces in Evan Mobley and Darius Garland. While this is the second night of a back-to-back for Phoenix, both games are at home, and their win over Detroit was so comfortable that Khaman Maluach logged minutes—hardly a taxing outing for the starters.

Defensively, the Suns can throw Dillon Brooks at Donovan Mitchell and rely on Mark Williams to anchor the paint to match Jarrett Allen’s vertical presence. Brooks guarding Mitchell is a very different look when Garland isn’t there to help initiate the offense. Given all of that, I believe this line should be closer to +120, which is why I’m backing the Suns.

Jon's parlay is now BOOSTED at bet365!

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NBA ML parlay January 16

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Raptors vs Magic Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

The Toronto Raptors came home from a productive road trip only to fall into a classic letdown spot against the New York Knicks.

They’ll look to get back on track when they head to Orlando to face the Magic. Injuries and uneven play have held Orlando back this season, leaving the Magic just two games over .500 — yet they still enter as slight home favorites.

My Raptors vs. Magic predictions and NBA picks break down why the Raptors will get back to roaring in this Eastern Conference clash, set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET at the Kia Center in Orlando.

Raptors vs Magic prediction

Raptors vs Magic best bet: Raptors moneyline (+105)

The Toronto Raptors saw their winning streak snapped by the New York Knicks on Wednesday, but the team has played well overall.

They won the last four games of a West Coast road trip, including a win over the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. They’re eighth in the NBA in defensive rating, and have gone 10-4 ATS as a road underdog this season.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic are struggling. They have the sixth-worst net rating in January, and it’s clear they are missing Franz Wagner.

Brandon Ingram and Co. will lock down the Magic and get back in the win column. 

Raptors vs Magic same-game parlay

Ingram is having a solid first season with the Raptors, and tonight I want to focus on his playmaking ability. He's averaged 4.2 assists over his last nine games, recording four or more dimes in six of those outings.

Orlando is a strong defensive team, and their game plan figures to involve getting the ball out of Ingram’s hands.  

Then there is Jalen Suggs. The Magic guard is just 2-for-16 from three in his three games since his return from injury and now faces a Raptors team that allows the second-lowest opponent 3-point shooting percentage in the NBA.

Raptors vs Magic SGP

  • Raptors moneyline
  • Brandon Ingram Over 3.5 assists
  • Jalen Suggs Under 1.5 threes

Our "from downtown" SGP: Dino Dimes

The Raptors have the sixth-highest assist rate this month, while the Magic rank 19th in opponent assists per possession during the same period.

Raptors vs Magic SGP

  • Immanuel Quickley Over 5.5 assists
  • Scottie Barnes Over 4.5 assists
  • Brandon Ingram Over 3.5 assists
  • Collin Murray-Boyles Over 2.5 assists

Raptors vs Magic odds

  • Spread: Raptors +1.5 | Magic -1.5
  • Moneyline: Raptors +105 | Magic -125
  • Over/Under: Over 219.5 | Under 219.5

Raptors vs Magic betting trend to know

The Raptors have hit the moneyline in 23 of their last 40 away games (+11.75 Units / 22% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Raptors vs. Magic.

How to watch Raptors vs Magic

LocationKia Center, Orlando, FL
DateFriday, January 30, 2026
Tip-off7:30 p.m. ET
TVTSN, ESPN

Raptors vs Magic latest injuries

Not intended for use in MA.
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3 Potential Trade Targets For Red Wings Second Center Need

The Detroit Red Wings’ trade priorities recently came into focus after TSN’s Darren Dreger reported that the team is actively searching for a second-line center and a top-four defenseman. With a number of players available at both positions, it will be fascinating to see which path Detroit ultimately chooses. 

Detroit could pursue veteran options at each spot, allowing them to part with fewer assets, add short-term help, and avoid blocking future prospects from reaching the NHL. Alternatively, they could package those prospects in a blockbuster deal to land a long-term solution capable of anchoring the second-line center role for years to come. 

With that in mind, we’ve identified several potential targets GM Steve Yzerman could explore, breaking down the expected cost, age, and potential impact each player could bring to Detroit. 

Nazem Kadri

Recent reports indicate that Nazem Kadri has informed the Calgary Flames he would be open to a trade. The 35-year-old center has often been a driving force on an inconsistent Flames roster, and when deployed full-time in a top-six role, he has consistently delivered. Kadri has settled in as a reliable 60 to 70 point producer with upside that can still reach the 80 point range.

While he is significantly older than many of the other options on the market, Kadri fits the profile of a short-term second-line center Detroit could target. He is a player who can contribute immediately without blocking the path for future prospects and would provide steady production for the next two to three seasons.

Kadri has three years remaining on his contract after this season, carrying a $7 million cap hit. While the rising salary cap may soften that number over time, declining production in later years could still make the deal difficult to justify. As a result, Calgary would likely need to retain salary, or Detroit could look to expand the deal beyond Kadri alone.

With the Red Wings also seeking defensive depth, defenseman Zach Whitecloud stands out as a logical add-on. Acquired by the Flames in the Rasmus Andersson deal, Whitecloud has begun to draw interest around the league. The 29-year-old carries a very team-friendly $2.75 million cap hit for the next three seasons and profiles as a dependable top-four option.

Since joining Calgary, Whitecloud has been logging heavy minutes, averaging between 23 and 25 per game through his first five contests. During that stretch, he has been on the ice for two goals for and three against while recording an assist. Including Whitecloud in a larger Kadri deal would allow Detroit to address two major needs at once and eliminate the need for a secondary move.

"Classy": Patrick Kane Appreciates Message From Mike Modano After Record-Breaking Point "Classy": Patrick Kane Appreciates Message From Mike Modano After Record-Breaking Point Patrick Kane loved the video message from Mike Modano that was played on the scoreboard at Little Caesars Arena after he broke the record for most points by a U.S.-born NHL player.

Charlie Coyle

Insiders have reported that the Columbus Blue Jackets are receiving significant interest in Charlie Coyle, and for good reason. The 33-year-old veteran center has been a steady presence for 16 NHL seasons, experiencing both highs and lows throughout his career. Coyle established himself as a consistent 45 to 60 point producer during his final seasons with the Boston Bruins before being traded to the Colorado Avalanche.

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features. 

Now in his first season with Columbus, Coyle has begun to rediscover his form. He has recorded 12 goals and 23 assists for 35 points in 52 games and is on pace to surpass the 55 point mark for just the third time in his career. That level of production could draw strong interest from teams that view him as a legitimate second-line center option.

Unlike a potential Nazem Kadri deal, Coyle is unlikely to be packaged with a defenseman. However, he is slightly younger and is a pending unrestricted free agent carrying a $5.25 million cap hit. That status could make him a riskier but lower cost acquisition, as he could choose to test free agency this July. 

One possible solution would be for Detroit to acquire Coyle with an extension already in place, allowing him to serve as the Red Wings’ second-line center this season and next before eventually transitioning into a bottom-six role as the contract progresses.

At the right price point, Coyle could provide Detroit with a longer-term solution negotiated directly with both the player and the team, making him a meaningful addition for years to come.

The primary concern would be avoiding a repeat of the Andrew Copp or J.T. Compher situations, where value and role become misaligned. However, by controlling the terms of Coyle’s next contract, the Red Wings may be able to mitigate that risk.

Red Wings Announce Multiple Call-Ups From GriffinsRed Wings Announce Multiple Call-Ups From GriffinsIn the wake of Simon Edvinsson's absence, the Detroit Red Wings have announced a series of roster moves involving the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Robert Thomas

The biggest and most high-profile option on the board is an obvious one in St. Louis Blues star center Robert Thomas. At just 26 years old, Thomas has firmly established himself as one of the league’s top young centers, producing consistently in the 75 to 80 point range while posting strong two-way numbers and handling heavy minutes on a largely underwhelming Blues roster.

Selected 20th overall by St. Louis in the 2017 NHL Draft, Thomas has not only met expectations but exceeded them. If the Blues were to move him, it would require a significant return. Acquiring a young, near point-per-game center would be extremely costly, but it also represents the clearest path for Detroit to add a true impact player capable of accelerating the team’s push toward contention. It would easily be the most expensive option on this list.

There is also the possibility of St. Louis including a defenseman in a larger deal, as the Blues have explored moving veteran blueliner Justin Faulk. The 33-year-old defenseman brings extensive top-four experience and could serve as a stabilizing presence in a young Red Wings locker room, similar to the role Ben Chiarot has grown into.

A package featuring both Thomas and Faulk would undoubtedly cost Detroit a combination of high draft picks and top prospects. However, among NHL teams, the Red Wings are one of the few organizations with the assets to construct a deal that St. Louis would seriously consider. The remaining question is whether Detroit is willing to be aggressive enough to pull the trigger on a move of this magnitude.

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Dodgers sign Ryder Ryan to minor league deal, per reports

PITTSBURGH, PA - AUGUST 18: Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Ryder Ryan (72) delivers a pitch during an MLB game against the Seattle Mariners on August 18, 2024 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Dodgers this week signed Ryder Ryan to a minor league contract with a non-roster invitation to spring training, per multiple reports. The pitcher if he makes the majors would earn a salary of $800,000, per both Fabian Ardaya at The Athletic and Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Ryan pitched parts of two seasons in the majors, in 2023 with the Seattle Mariners and in 2024 with the Pittsburgh Pirates, putting up a combined 5.40 ERA in 16 relief appearances, with 19 strikeouts and 10 walks in 21 2/3 innings. In 2025, Ryan had a 4.73 ERA in 42 games for Triple-A Indianapolis, with 61 strikeouts and 38 walks in 72 1/3 innings.

He turns 31 in May.

I buried the lede a little bit here, as Ryan is the older brother River Ryan, who debuted with the Dodgers with four starts in 2024 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. Ryan missed all of the 2025 season, and is part of the Dodgers rotation depth mix heading into 2026.

River Ryan was at Glendale Recreation Center on Thursday in a Dodgers community outing, and talked about his brother’s signing. From Blake Williams at Dodger Blue:

“I’m excited to get out to big league camp and be on the same team again,” River Ryan said. “The last time we were on the same team was in high school, so it’s been a long time. But it’s really cool to be on a team like the Dodgers with your brother.”

When Ryder Ryan made his major league debut in August 2023 with the Mariners, the Dodgers allowed River — then in Double-A Tulsa — to travel to Seattle to see his brother’s debut in person. Eleven months later, the Pirates allowed Ryder to go to Los Angeles to see River’s major league debut at Dodger Stadium, along with several members of the family.

“It was truly a blessing to have all them make it out. Their support has been unbelievable throughout my entire career, starting when I was little,” River Ryan said after his major league debut. “I’m extremely happy they were able to make it here.”

Should the elder Ryan reach the majors with the Dodgers, he still has one option year remaining, having used options in 2023 and 2024.

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Braves add veteran starter Martin Perez on minor league deal, per report

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 17: Martín Pérez #54 of the Chicago White Sox throws a pitch during the second inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Rate Field on September 17, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Well, it’s not really a solution to a perceived need for additional heft in the starting pitching department, but it’s a move anyway:

A 14-year MLB veteran, the Venezuelan left-hander has 17.1 career fWAR across over 1,630 career innings. His career pitching line (ERA-/FIP-/xFIP-) is 100/103/107 — basically a fourth-ish starter over the arc of a decade and a half. That said, Perez had a career year in 2022 (3.9 fWAR on a 74/81/96 line), but has fallen on hard times since. He’s thrown 332 2/3 innings after that season, never exceeding 0.8 fWAR in a season, and with a moribund 104/115/114 line, which is basically fifth starter territory. He’s pitched for four different teams in that span, and missed a bunch of time last season due to a (gulp) shoulder strain.

Given that he’s aging, Perez having the worst xFIP- of his career last season isn’t really surprising. His success generally relies on not getting smashed by HR/FB, but he doesn’t seem to have any propensity for actually limiting homers (groundball pitchers often have high HR/FB rates because the fly balls they allow are crushed at a greater rate). The Braves probably don’t need to be adding additional risk exposure via HR/FB rate given what happened last year, but they’re probably not going to rely on Perez all that much anyway.

On the plus side, Perez is a sinker-changeup-cutter guy who showed good command of the first two last year. If he carries that over and stops relying on his cutter so much (as it has been consistently crushed in 2022), there may be something there. For now, though, this is just pure depth — just amassed in the offseason, as opposed to in a panic a la the Carlos Carrascos and Cal Quantrills of yesteryear.