Who will win the Eastern Conference? The Cleveland Cavaliers punched their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals on Sunday night, taking on the comfortable New York Knicks. This will be a fascinating series, especially with all its focus being primarily on the West.

Let’s take a look at our game-by-game Eastern Conference Finals predictions.

Game 1: New York Knicks 121, Cleveland Cavaliers 113

It’s fitting that the Eastern Conference Finals features a matchup between the Cavaliers vs. the Knicks, as they faced each other to open the season on October 22nd. New York won two of the three head-to-head clashes during the regular season and we suspect the rest will play out in the team’s favor in Game 1. We think All-Star guard Jalen Brunson opened the ECF with a bang, scoring over 30 points with five three-pointers and combining with. Karl-Anthony Towns for 50. The Knicks won Game 1 in a two-man show.

RELATED: The latest on the Cavaliers’ plans with James Harden

Game 2: New York Knicks 115, Cleveland Cavaliers 108

New York knows at this point that Mikal Bridges is not going to provide much offensively. That’s fine in the Eastern Conference Finals; He just needs to be a blocker. Bridges did an excellent job of stopping Tyrese Maxey in the second period, and he will be tasked with another big defensive task here. We’re guessing the clamps will come out in Game 2, with both James Harden and Donovan Mitchell struggling when they are forced to match up with Bridges. Cleveland’s pair of All-Star guards battled the team’s issues on the glass, giving New York a 2-0 series lead with a clean record at home.

Read More: Western Conference Finals Predictions

Game 3: Cleveland Cavaliers 118, New York Knicks 110

The Knicks being well-rested certainly gives them an edge in the Eastern Conference Finals, but Cleveland has been battle-tested. Cleveland went 0–2 in the second round after losing on the road at Detroit and responded with three consecutive wins. We believe experience matters to win Game 3. It’s going to be a remarkable night for James Harden, who brings in over 30 points with 9 assists. The former NBA MVP responded with another vintage playoff performance in the series, which explains why the Cavaliers acquired him early this season.

Game 4: New York Knicks 121, Cleveland Cavaliers 117

With OG Anunoby injured, the Knicks have needed guard Miles McBride to step up more recently. He had a great performance in Game 4 vs. Philadelphia by making seven treys with 25 points and we think his perimeter shooting will shine once again in the Eastern Conference Finals. With Anunoby limited, McBride exploded with a game-high in three-pointers (five) made as part of the Knicks’ bench that made the difference in a Game 4 win on the road. This sent New York back to Madison Square Garden with a 3–1 series lead.

Game 5: New York Knicks 118, Cleveland Cavaliers 107

During the Eastern Conference Finals, we’re expecting Karl-Anthony Towns to be the biggest reason New York gets to the NBA Finals. Back home at Madison Square Garden, KAT would record his fourth double-double of the series and reach over 20 points for the second time since he has scored over 15 points in each contest. KAT and Brunson combined for over 40 points in a Game 5 loss to the Knicks’ rotation depth and team defense that gave the Knicks their first Eastern Conference title since 1999.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

At the start of the 2025–26 NBA season, it became clear that the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs were on a collision course for a playoff berth. Luckily, the latest rivalry in the NBA will take place in the Western Conference Finals.

While Oklahoma City finished the regular season with the best record in the NBA, it lost four of five games in head-to-head contests against San Antonio. Those competitions also revealed just how much friction there is between Victor Wembanyama and the Thunder, which adds even more intrigue to the series.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at our Western Conference Finals predictions.

Game 1: Oklahoma City Thunder 113, San Antonio Spurs 109

Oklahoma City is expected to get wing Jalen Williams back for Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, which is an added boost for a team that is already well-rested. Wembanyama and the Spurs have already proven they can go to Paycom Center and win, but the extra time to prepare along with home-court advantage could impact Game 1. We expect this to be a tight game from start to finish, but Wambayama’s 30-plus points combined with the 30-plus points from Ajayi Mitchell and Williams will propel Oklahoma City to a Game 1 victory.

Game 2: San Antonio Spurs 117, Oklahoma City Thunder 110

The Spurs will steal one from the Thunder; This is one of our Western Conference Finals predictions we feel the strongest about. Wembanyama has already demonstrated that he can completely neutralize Chet Holmgren, and the Spurs also have the guard depth to match up with Oklahoma City. In Game 2, Wembanyama scored over 35 points with 5 blocks and 2 steals in one of the most impressive two-way performances of the entire NBA playoffs. Additionally, Dylan Harper comes off the bench with 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists to help San Antonio tie the series upon returning home.

Game 3: San Antonio Spurs 108, Oklahoma City Thunder 105

In the first Western Conference Finals home game for the franchise since May 22, 2017, we are expecting a noisy atmosphere at Frost Bank Center. This is another rivalry game where we see bad blood spill over in an electric atmosphere between the Spurs and Thunder. While Oklahoma City is generally a team that avoids mistakes, last year’s NBA Finals showed that they can experience a few misses and turnovers. Against a well-coached team like San Antonio, who also has the length and defensive versatility to put pressure on Gilgeous-Alexander and close down passing lanes, we think the Spurs come out on top at home. San Antonio takes a 2–1 series lead in the Western Conference Finals, with Wembanyama averaging nearly 30 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks per contest.

Game 4: Oklahoma City Thunder 116, San Antonio Spurs 110

In a key game on the road, Oklahoma City’s playoff experience keeps them from being on the brink of elimination. Jalen Williams should be over the rust by now since his return, giving the Thunder a bucket-getter who can take over games. With so much defensive pressure on SGA, Williams repeated his standout performance from last year’s NBA Finals with over 35 points, including five three-pointers. It’s Williams’ resurgence and some clutch minutes off the bench that allow the Thunder to even the series by capturing Game 4 in San Antonio.

Game 5: San Antonio Spurs 120, Oklahoma City Thunder 113

We expect this Spurs vs. Thunder showdown in the Western Conference Finals to be a regular thing in the years to come. In our view, a theme of this rivalry will be finding ways for Oklahoma City and San Antonio to pick up wins on the road. That’s what we expect in Game 5, this time with De’Aaron Fox leading the way with a double-double. The Spurs had five players (Fox, Wembanyama, Harper, Stephen Cassel, and Keldon Johnson) score double figures, giving San Antonio its second win in the series.

Game 6: Oklahoma City Thunder 114, San Antonio Spurs 104

We’re giving San Antonio a chance to wrap up the Western Conference Finals at home in Game 6. It will not be removed. While Gilgeous-Alexander’s stellar third quarter performance will effectively put the Spurs away in this one, it’s going to be a breakout game from Chet Holmgren (22 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks) that proves to be the difference maker early on. Oklahoma City won Game 6, its largest point differential in the entire seven-game series.

Game 7: Oklahoma City Thunder 111, San Antonio Spurs 109

Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals will determine who will be crowned NBA champion this season. This is because both San Antonio and Oklahoma City are a level higher than either team coming from the Eastern Conference. In this winner-take-all game, the Spurs came out of the gate in a hostile environment and trailed by double digits in the second quarter. A few halftime adjustments and a highly motivated Vembanyama are a recipe for a comeback. Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein will have no answer when Wembanyama stakes his claim to be the best player in the NBA right now. This makes for a tight game in the final minutes. Once again, Gilgeous-Alexander stepped up to the plate. We’re projecting a 40-burger in Game 7 for SGA, including double-digit points in the fourth quarter to help the Thunder win the Western Conference Finals.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

During the NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders focused heavily on their secondary. They needed it.

Last season, only Tennessee and Miami allowed opponent quarterbacks to complete passes at a higher clip than the Raiders, who tied Dallas for the third-highest opponent completion percentage in the league.

General manager Jon Spityek used four of the team’s 10 picks at cornerback and safety. Las Vegas drafted Arizona safeties Traydon Stukes and Dalton Johnson in the second and fifth rounds. The team added cornerbacks Jermod McCoy and Hezekiah Maas on day three.

“We definitely needed to add competition to the defensive back room,” Clint Kubiak said. “It’s very rare to get two safeties on the same team playing together. It’s exciting. Get two new corners. That was an area on defense we needed to address.”

The question now is how four rookies fit into a defensive rotation that has to handle some of the game’s best pass catchers.

Traydon Stookes highlights the versatility of all four players

Treydan Stukes can rotate at nickelback and safety. At Arizona, he defended in man and zone, played the line of scrimmage and back end, and graded out at 90.1 overall last season – sixth best among cornerbacks nationally.

He allowed a 34.4 passer rating when targeted.

“I’m going to learn both (positions) and wherever I can fit in best and help the team win some games, that’s what I’m going to do,” Stukes said during rookie minicamp.

The Raiders traded down two spots and still took advantage of first-round talent to send them to the second round. Four interceptions and six pass breakups last year show why this matters.

Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard wants the interception. Stukes gives him a ballhawk in the middle of the field.

ALSO READ: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft recap: Best class in years, but the wide receiver room still needs an answer

Arizona teammates join veterans in Raiders secondary

Dalton Johnson was selected at No. 150 due to his versatility. He can play free safety, strong safety, nickelback and the slot. The Day 3 pick has a value of four positions.

Johnson totaled 277 tackles in his final three seasons in Tucson. He’ll learn behind veterans Jeremy Chinn and Isaiah Pola-Mao, who played 96% and 89% of defensive snaps last season – both clearing or approaching 1,000 snaps.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders draft recap: Knowing about the selections

Jarmod McCoy proving himself despite knee concerns

Jermod McCoy went from a potential first-round pick to the first pick on Day 3. Injury history ruled him out.

He missed all of 2025 due to a torn ACL at Tennessee. Reports surfaced before the draft that some teams believed a second surgery was imminent due to degenerative concerns surrounding a bone plug in the same knee. The Raiders made a one-spot deal to take him anyway.

“Confidence wasn’t an issue,” said vice president of player personnel Brandon Hunt. “We felt good about where we took him. It was an opportunity to get value. This was probably the best corner in the draft, and we feel like we have great people and a great process to make sure we get the best out of this player.”

Despite the medical report, McCoy worked out of rookie minicamp. At Tennessee in 2024, after transferring from Oregon State, he posted four interceptions and nine pass breakups and earned All-American honors. The next three months will show the attackers what they really have.

Also Read: Las Vegas Raiders QB Fernando Mendoza faced criticism from anonymous coach and it didn’t stop

Maas and McCoy join veteran cornerback room

If Stukes is the ballhawk in the middle, Hezekiah Maas is the ballhawk on the outside.

Masses led the nation with 18 passes defensed last season. He finished seventh with five interceptions and earned AP Second Team All-American honors. At over six feet tall, he reads route concepts well on the field.

The veteran room he and McCoy step into is solid. Teron Johnson comes to Buffalo with eight seasons of double-digit games, 48 ​​pass deflections (seven or more in four consecutive years from 2020-23), 98 tackles and AP All-Pro Second Team honors on his resume. Eric Stokes played more than 90% of the defensive snaps for the Raiders last season – that group included Pola-Mao and Devin White – and added five pass deflections and 53 tackles.

You have two rooms led by veterans and four rookies, which gives the Raiders a lot to be excited about.

As a result, both defensive back rooms have an opportunity to turn their great draft picks into a top unit by combining them with their veterans. The next three months of preparation before the season will tell how far they come along.

ALSO READ: Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver depth chart 2026: No clear No. 1 option heading into training camp

Braven Honda graduated from San Diego State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in May 2021. During his time at SDSU, … More about Braven Honda

On Saturday night, the MMA world leaders return to Paramount+ for their latest mega event, UFC 328. The card inside New Jersey’s Prudential Center will feature 13 fights and a pair of championship matchups.

In the main event, middleweight king Khamzat Chimaev defends his title for the first time when he faces the challenge of former champion Sean Strickland. In the co-headlining, new UFC flyweight champion Joshua Vann takes on the challenge of top contender Tatsuro Taira.

Bookies will have a lot of bets for Saturday’s matches. But which has the best chance of a big payout? We look at six potential upsets at UFC 328 to waste your hard-earned money.

Jeremy Stephens defeats King Green

One bout that has Fight of the Night potential is the bout between MMA greybeards King Green and Jeremy Stephens. With both men turning 40 this year, they are far from their prime, and have a combined 39 losses on their cage fighting resumes. That means this fight is completely unpredictable and can go either way.

Green is a big favorite among bookmakers for good reason. Stephens has not won an MMA fight in four years, and Green is on a two-fight win streak. However, they both have a lot of fight on their chin. However, “Lil Heathen” still has reset-button power in his hands, which could be a problem for weak chins.

Green will outlast Stephens, but there is a huge risk of pressing the restart button.

Jim Miller defeated Jared Gordon

UFC 328 features a matchup of tri-state graybeards when 42-year-old Jim Miller takes on 37-year-old Jared Gordon. New York native Gordon is a solid favorite as his New Jersey opponent is trying to squeeze whatever is left out of his body as a professional athlete.

Miller’s win over Damon Jackson in 2024 shows he is still dangerous. And only eight of Gordon’s 21 wins being knockouts is another big plus for Miller’s aging chin. Although he may struggle in Round 1, hopefully Miller will ultimately use his wrestling and pull off an upset victory in front of his home state fans.

Roman Kopylov defeated Marco Tullio Silva

Roman Kopylov is a sleeper underdog to keep an eye on at UFC 328. He has lost his last two and faces a dangerous striker in Marco Tullio Silva, who had scored four consecutive KO wins before a surprise defeat in November. Also, Silva is four years younger.

However, the devil is in the details, and Kopylov’s defeat came against high-level competition in Gregory Rodriguez and Paulo Costa. The Russian is also a very skilled striker with legitimate knockout talent. Look for him to use it and get back in the win column on Saturday.

William Gomis defeated Pat Sabbatini

Talented wrestler Pat Sabbatini returns to action at UFC 328 on Saturday and is the heavy favorite against France’s William Gomis. We all know how Western European talent struggles with wrestlers and maybe that’s why the Americans are the favorites.

However, Sabbatini will turn 36 later this year, and age catches up quickly on fighters, especially in the lower weight classes. Gomis is a skilled striker and good athlete who will do enough to avoid takedowns and earn a decision victory in New Jersey.

Waldo Cortes-Acosta defeated Alexander Volkov

One of the bigger bouts at UFC 328 – in terms of relevance and sheer size – is the heavyweight bout between top contender Alexander Volkov and red-hot Dominican Waldo Cortes-Acosta. A case could be made that the winner should be next in line for a title fight if Tom Aspinall doesn’t yet have his sights set on a return in the fall.

Volkov’s height is always a big problem for his opponents and he knows how to use it well. However, Cortes-Acosta is a slight underdog as he has scored three consecutive KO wins and is a much better athlete than he looks. Volkov should win due to his length and experience, but we are seeing an upset due to “Salsa Boy’s” speed and athleticism advantages.

Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev

All eyes will be on Saturday’s main event bout between Strickland and Chimaev at UFC 328 as they present huge tests for each other. Can the American be the first to slow down and stop Chimaev’s wrestling attack? What will he do if “Borz” can’t wrestle to victory and has to go into the deep end of the pool with the guy who has the best gas tank in the division?

What’s interesting about this matchup is that they have trained together, so Strickland has a feel for Chimaev’s strengths and techniques. This is a huge benefit for him. Don’t be surprised if the former champion loses the first three rounds, but his gas tank and output turned the tide in the second half of the fight, and he ultimately overpowered Chimaev to score a shocking TKO victory in the fifth round.

Chimaev is a big favorite and should win, but there are some unique elements to this fight that make it a worthwhile risk to bet against him.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Barcelona looking to follow ‘Raphinha model’ to sign Joao Pedro de chelsea in this summer.

Sport report that the Brazilian striker is in competition with Julian Alvarez Becoming Barcelona’s new number nine in the summer transfer window.

deco likes chelsea star

The newspaper reports that Barcelona’s sporting director Deco is a big fan of Premier League players.

Having played in England himself, he believes that ‘intensity, speed of execution and physical demands’ create players who add positive factors to Barcelona’s team.

This is especially the case as Barcelona’s squad is relatively young, with La Masia also being constantly included.

Barcelona’s directors frequently travel to England to evaluate players. As an agent, he brought Raphinha to Camp Nou. He also attempted to sign Luis Diaz, who has performed phenomenally for Bayern Munich this season.

Chelsea star Joao Pedro is the latest name in England he admires. In fact, he likes him so much that he is in the top two of strikers shortlisted to reinforce Barcelona’s number nine spot this summer.

The Chelsea forward is valued for more than his skills on the field. He is also considered young at the age of 24, with great potential for development as he ‘has not yet reached his peak or footballing maturity.’

Rafinha comparison

In this sense, Barcelona is watching what happened with Raphinha. He arrived as an incomplete package from Leeds and has since blossomed under Hansi Flick. Last season he was a contender for the Ballon d’Or.

The feeling is that João Pedro has a similar profile and, importantly, is ‘a hidden gem in the media’. Therefore, Barcelona can give him a global status and scope to grow even further.

Of course, no deal will be cheap. Chelsea paid €63.7m for Brighton last summer and he is now worth €75m. The game makes no mention of Barcelona’s stance on that front.

But it appears Deco is still fond of the striker. And Raphinha’s success is potentially driving that interest even further.

The second round of the NBA Playoffs ended on Monday night, with the New York Knicks earning an emphatic win in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals and the Minnesota Timberwolves defeating the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals.

This takes us to the NBA games today, with a Game 1 matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Detroit Pistons, followed by the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder. With two great bouts on deck, we’re making some predictions for each contest.

Donovan Mitchell downed 30-burgers

The Pistons will bring a level of physicality that could result in some game-to-game inconsistency for Donovan Mitchell. However, they do not have a standout defender like Scotty Barnes who can really cause problems for them. Mitchell averaged nearly 21 shots per game in the first-round series and we should see a similar amount in Game 1. We are projecting him to score over 32 points tonight, he will be the only Cavaliers player to score 20 points.

Detroit Pistons beat Cavaliers in Game 1

While Mitchell will do his best to help the Cleveland Cavaliers get a Game 1 win on the road, it’s going to be a one-man operation. Both Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley will struggle with the physicality provided in Detroit’s frontcourt with Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart. We also see that James Harden had an outing in which he turned it over 7 times while making only four shots. It would be relatively close in the fourth quarter, but Detroit won it.

• Prediction: Detroit Pistons 116, Cleveland Cavaliers 108

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reaches 50 points

We think there’s a chance we’ll see a 50-point game tonight. The Los Angeles Lakers have no answer for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander defensively. As highlighted by The Athletic’s Law Murray, SGA scored 83 points and shot 55.2 percent from the field against Los Angeles in the regular season. He’s willing to take more than 20 shots if necessary and it’s almost a lock that he’ll get to the free-throw line more than 10 times. In Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals on national television, SGA scored more than 48 points.

OKC Thunder blow out LA Lakers in Game 1

With Luka Doncic out, it looks like this is the only one-sided matchup in the NBA Conference Semifinals. The Lakers are relying heavily on Austin Reaves, who is recovering from injury, and 41-year-old LeBron James to carry this team forward. It worked against Houston, but is not going to have any success against a Thunder team that is deeper, better coached and more well-developed. Playing at home in Game 1, Oklahoma City would effectively win. When it’s over, the only question will be whether the Thunder will have to deal with rust in the next round since it will be a short series.

• Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 122, Los Angeles Lakers 95

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

Before the Raiders hit the clock, I want to go on the record.

Every year I do this. Every year, some of these age beautifully and some of them get screenshotted and thrown back in my face by people in my mentions who have been waiting since April to do the exact same thing. Good. This is the deal. You want accountable tech, they’re here.

Let’s start with the obvious and get it out of the way.

Fernando Mendoza has become number 1. I’m really going out on a limb here, aren’t I? The Raiders took over an Indiana quarterback who went 16–0, won a Heisman, threw 41 touchdowns against six interceptions and completed 72% of his passes in a national championship season. It takes almost zero courage to predict this. John Spytek said he has received calls about the selection and that teams “know where they stand.” This GM means stop calling us.

Mendoza is a Raider as of Thursday night at 8:15 pm Eastern time. write it down.

Now this is where it gets interesting.

How the top of the draft plays out past Mendoza

Jets It’s two o’clock and I’m taking Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey over Ohio State’s Arvel Reese. I know this is an unpopular approach. Reese is the unanimous choice, the athleticism darling, the guy most analysts have cornered. I don’t care. The Jets aren’t drafting for upside right now – they’re drafting for production. Bailey led the Big 12 with 14.5 sacks last season, posted 19.5 tackles for loss, and was disruptive every week against real competition. Reese has a high ceiling. Bailey has a track record. New York has been trying to replace their pass rush for half a decade and they don’t have the luxury of waiting on the potential Bailey already has to develop. The Jets took Bailey, and in two years no one remembered it being a surprise. But, this is a prediction that most of you will take a screenshot of.

Cornell Tate could not advance further than eighth place. On most boards he’s going somewhere between six and nine, and I’m not arguing with that range. He’s the most complete receiver in this class, a legitimate route runner who draws comparisons to Justin Jefferson from people whose opinions I really respect. Cleveland needs a receiver so badly that if he’s there at six, they’re not waiting. If it somehow falls, someone will do the business. Tate is leaving quickly with a smile on his face.

Omar Cooper Jr. is the wild card of the first round. Most big boards right now have him going between 13 and 16 — Dan Brugler at The Athletic has him ranked 21st overall, NFL.com’s Mock continues to have him landing at 13 on the Rams, and Todd McShay has him in the middle of the first round. Daniel Jeremiah expressed the possibility that he would lose in the second round. I think the truth lies somewhere between the consensus and Jeremiah. His receiving totals never topped 1,000 yards in college, and for all the athleticism and yards after the catch, NFL teams are going to be talking to themselves before Thursday night is over. He doesn’t make it to Round 2, but he doesn’t make it to Round 13 either. Cooper lands somewhere in the 18-22 range, and whoever took him there feels like they stole something.

What about the Raiders in Round 2?

Now – Raiders at 36.

The receiver board in this location is actually quite interesting. Zachariah Branch, Kevin Concepcion, and Isaiah Bonds all sit in that late-first to mid-second tier, and in most years at least one – if not two – of them are gone before the Raiders even get on the clock. Concepcion, in particular, is a mid-20s player on a lot of boards and probably shouldn’t have gotten here. If he does that, this type of slide teams onto the podium quickly. Any one of them makes sense here.

But the name I remember over and over again is Jeremy Bernard. The Alabama receiver doesn’t have the buzz of the top names in this class, but he weighs in at 6-1, 206 pounds and led the Crimson Tide in catches last season with 50 receptions for 794 yards. Dan Brugler called him a favorite among scouts and coaches, especially because of his versatility in all formations and his competitive mentality. He’s not a slam dunk pick here – Branch and Bonds both have arguments – but if Spytek is building around Mendoza’s comfort and wants a receiver who can line up at multiple spots and work quickly, Bernard fits that profile better than anyone else at this level. Kubiak will find ways to get him the ball.

Either way, the Raiders come out of Round 2 with a pass catcher. I’ll bet on it.

Attackers in Round 3 and beyond

When Vegas gets to 67 in round 3, I think SpyTech goes to the rescue. Specifically, defensive tackle. McDonald visited Henderson and everyone keeps throwing up his name, but let’s be honest – Kayden McDonald is an intriguing prospect. Many boards have him in the mid to late round of the first round, and if he somehow ends up in the late part of Round 2, Spytek should be trading on the phone, not sitting and waiting. He will no longer be there at the age of 67.

A more realistic target is Domonique Orange out of Iowa State. He visited Henderson, he weighs 325 pounds and projects as a round 3-4 pick across the board. He’s not a pass rusher, but in Rob Leonard’s 3-4, the nose tackle’s job is to hold the point of attack and keep the linebackers clean. Orange does exactly that.

Chris McClellan from Missouri is another name here. He also visited, and what separates him from the Orange isn’t pass-rush production (scouts doubt that part of his game), it’s versatility. McClellan can line up anywhere from zero-technique to 4i, which gives a defensive coordinator more options depending on personnel. One of them is a raider as of Saturday morning.

The secondary is addressed on the third day with at least one selection of the fourth round. Three fourth rounders are a luxury. Spytek uses one on a cornerback – I guess Delenn Everett from Georgia visited. The projection range on Everett is wide, anywhere from the end of Day 2 to the beginning of Day 3, so nabbing him with one of those fourth-round picks is realistic without a stretch.

The running back comes in on day three. There’s the name of Indiana’s Kellon Black – physical runner, strong in pass protection, and running backs to that national championship with Mendoza in two seasons. He projects in the fifth or sixth round, right where the Raiders have options sitting. You’re not asking him to go back to being featured. You’re asking him to provide a capable rotation option to Ashton Jeanty and contribute on special teams. Black can do this.

Then there’s Boston College offensive lineman Logan Taylor, who made the top 30 with the Raiders. He weighs 6-7, 314 pounds and started games at all four positions on the line in college – left tackle, left guard, right guard, right tackle. He is not someone who has wandered into a position; He is a man who has learned how to play football. You don’t need that to get started. You need him to give your offensive line room a reliable backup who can plug in anywhere when things get rough, and Taylor provides exactly that. He is the person chosen for the third day who fits the role of the third day perfectly.

Then it’s a receiver, a safety or two, a linebacker that makes your special teams coach smile. The third day is where you throw darts and hope one of them sticks.

Here’s my main takeaway: The Raiders will not be a contender in 2026. Anyone telling you otherwise is not straight with you. Six wins, maybe seven, is a realistic outcome in Year 1 of this rebuild. But a good draft – a Mendoza, a receiver at 36, a nose tackle at 67, secondary depth in Round 4, and a running back with system familiarity at the end of Day 3 – sets this thing up nicely for 2027 and beyond.

Check back Friday morning. I will remain here, either paying obeisance or explaining myself.

maybe both.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1 … More about Scott Gulbransen

John Cena has revealed who he thinks will win the WrestleMania 42 main event matches of Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton and CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns.

WrestleMania 42 has finally arrived, and this weekend’s two-night extravaganza will feature some huge main event matches. On Saturday night, Rhodes will defend the WWE Undisputed Title against his former mentor and now rival, Orton. On Sunday, Punk will face the challenge of 11-time WrestleMania main eventer Reigns.

WWE GOAT John Cena has a history with all four men. Orton and Punk are his two biggest rivals to date. While Reigns and Rhodes faced the icon later in his career when he was looking to pass the torch to the next faces of the company.

That’s why Sports Illustrated asked us to hear their picks for both matches before we host both nights of WrestleMania 42 this weekend. First, Rhodes vs. Orton.

John Cena picks Randy Orton and Roman Reigns to win at WrestleMania 42

“I wouldn’t bet against Randy Orton,” Cena said. “I’ve known both of them for a very long time. And I’ve been in a similar position for Cody as a mentor, a teacher, someone that Cody looked to for approval. I think Randy has something to prove. I know what it feels like to say I want 17 and I’ll do anything to get it. Cody was the guy I took it from. Randy has that feeling.

During his retirement tour last year, Cena faced Punk for the last time, and both acknowledged that the other was their “wrestling partner”. However, that didn’t stop Cena from main eventing WrestleMania for the 11th time this Sunday.

“It’s hard to bet against [Reigns]. When the lights go on in prime time, he’s the man,” Cena said. “Phil is my wrestling partner. I think you’re going to see a terrific performance, but it’s hard to bet against Uz.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A new report suggests that the New York Jets’ alleged interest in quarterback prospect Ty Simpson may be part of a plan to trick a rival team into trading additional draft picks.

There is no doubt that the Jets need help at the quarterback position. This has been a problem for a long time, and nothing has changed in 2026. They spent a big chunk of money last year when they signed Justin Fields in free agency. He ultimately ended up being a disaster and was dealt to the Kansas City Chiefs last month.

This offseason, they are hoping Geno Smith can fix the problem in the short term. But taking a QB prospect in next week’s NFL Draft would seem to be a better option. That’s why, despite a weak quarterback class this year, the Jets have been linked to Alabama’s Ty Simpson with their second pick in Round 1, or their selection in Round 2.

They have scouted him closely, and some football evaluators believe he is better than the player expected to be the No. 1 overall pick, Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. However, according to NFL Draft expert Todd McShay, the Jets’ attraction to Simpson may not be legitimate.

The New York Jets playing a draft game with the Arizona Cardinals?

In Friday’s post, he claimed the “whole plan” for the Jets is to get a young QB in the 2027 draft. And while he thinks they could select Simpson with their pick at 33, he said, “I honestly think the Jets may put it there because they want Arizona to move up and take him.”

McShay speculated and speculated that the Cardinals might be willing to give up a fourth-rounder to move up from 34th to 33rd to ensure they get Simpson. Arizona also has a messy situation at QB, especially after cutting longtime starter Kyler Murray this offseason.

If the Jets are only willing to use the Day 3 pick on Simpson, this is a very smart play by the front office to make it seem like they could use the Day 1 or 2 selection on him so they can move down a spot in Round 2 and get an additional fourth round pick.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The 2025-26 NBA regular season has concluded, which brings us to the play-in tournament field, which was largely determined before the 82nd game of the season. Now that the matchups have been determined, it’s time to predict how the matchups will unfold.

Let’s take a look at our 2026 NBA Play-in Tournament predictions.

(8) Portland Trail Blazers vs. (7) Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns went 2–1 with a +7 point differential in their head-to-head meetings against the Portland Trail Blazers during the regular season. However, it is worth noting that Devin Booker did not play in either of the two February matches and Deni Avdija only played 1 minute in both contests.

A key in this matchup will be what Phoenix gets from Devin Booker. He scored more than 30 points in 24 regular season games, but when this happened the Suns posted only a .500 record. Portland’s physicality could also pose a real problem for Phoenix, especially since several of its key players are unsuccessful. In a tight game, we’re picking the Trail Blazers to surprise on the road.

• Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers 121, Phoenix Suns 118

Read More: 2026 NBA Draft Lottery Odds, Date

(10) Golden State Warriors vs. (9) Los Angeles Clippers

The NBA play-in tournament battle between Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard, it’s a recipe for greatness. Since it is an elimination game, the stakes are even higher, with the loser’s season ending and the winner fighting for the No. 8 seed against the loser of the first play-in game.

Generally, it isn’t wise to pick against Curry and the Golden State Warriors in such a big game. However, what Kawhi Leonard has done for the Los Angeles Clippers recently is absurd. Over his final 35 games, Leonard averaged 27.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game, while shooting 37.4 percent from the perimeter and 51.1 percent from the field. Let’s also remember that he has averaged 27.3 points, 8.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.9 steals per game in the playoffs since 2015. Since Golden State is not well-equipped to stop Los Angeles where it is weakest, Leonard can single-handedly win this game.

• Prediction: Los Angeles Clippers 114, Golden State Warriors 108

(10) Los Angeles Clippers vs. (7) Phoenix Suns

It’s worth looking back at the changes the Clippers have made this season. On December 18, the team lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder by 21 points and fell to 6–21. They finished the season by winning 36 of their last 55 games, a .655 winning percentage that puts them in the same company as the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. Leonard has been similarly impressive. It would continue on the road in Phoenix, where he would defeat Devin Booker and the Suns to clinch the Clippers’ spot as the No. 8 seed.

• Prediction: Los Angeles Clippers 110, Phoenix Suns 103

(8) Orlando Magic vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers will be without Joel Embiid in this one, which certainly makes this matchup against the Orlando Magic more interesting. That said, Philadelphia has home-court advantage and it’s not like Tyrese Maxey (28.3 ppg and 6.6 apg) isn’t capable of leading the 76ers to victory. That neither of these teams is all that dominant is shown by the fact that the 76ers (18-33) and Magic (23-30) both had very poor records against winning teams. What Orlando brings to the table is more experience playing in close games, and this team finished their season winning five of their last six. We’re seeing this momentum continue on Wednesday, with Desmond Benn, Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero putting on a scoring clinic for Maxi.

• Prediction: Orlando Magic 110, Philadelphia 76ers 105

(10) Miami Heat vs. (9) Charlotte Hornets

Many did not expect the Charlotte Hornets to be the No. 9 seed in the NBA Play-In Tournament this year, but Brandon Miller’s big improvements along with the great play of rookie Kenn Knueppel have them now on the cusp of making the first round. As for the Miami Heat, they cooled off with a 3-10 record before picking up two cheap wins to end the regular season. We see Miami having plenty of scoring threats to handle, which will give Charlotte fans the experience of seeing the Hornets win a playoff game on home turf.

• Prediction: Charlotte Hornets 122, Miami Heat 115

(9) Charlotte Hornets vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers

LaMelo Ball will get his moment in the NBA Play-In Tournament with a strong performance to send the Hornets into a first-round matchup against the Detroit Pistons. Tyrese Maxey will do everything he can for Philadelphia, combining for over 70 points in these two games. That wouldn’t be enough, Embiid’s appendectomy would prove to be the reason the 76ers would suffer another early playoff exit.

• Prediction: Charlotte Hornets 114, Philadelphia 76ers 110

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

According to ESPN’s updated NFL Mock Draft, the player who looked likely to be taken early in the top 10 of the NFL Draft will fall to the Miami Dolphins at No. 11 overall.

After a disappointing 7–10 season, change was expected. However, Miami fans got more than they expected. He fired head coach Mike McDaniels and replaced him with Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Then they started working on reimagining the roster.

The Dolphins took on a lot of dead cap, breaking up with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, linebacker Bradley Chubb and receiver Tyreek Hill. They then traded veterans Minkah Fitzpatrick and Jaylen Waddle. The bold overhaul has left glaring holes on the roster, especially in the wide receiver room.

That’s why the Dolphins have been linked to several pass catchers with their pick at No. 11 in the draft, including USC’s Makai Lemon and Arizona State’s Jordan Tyson. However, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper believes a stud WR prospect who many thought could go top five will fall to Miami.

Will Carnell Tate fall to the Dolphins at No. 11 in the NFL Draft?

“Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill are gone. But Carnell Tate’s route-running ability, sure hands and range as a pass catcher will move quarterback Malik Willis to WR1 and boost the Dolphins’ lackluster receiver room,” Kiper wrote in ESPN’s new NFL mock draft.

The Ohio State star has long been considered the top receiver in this year’s class, with projections calling him going to the New York Giants at No. 5 or the Cleveland Browns at No. 6. However, in ESPN’s mocks, he is the second WR off the board after the Browns took Lemon with their first pick.

Some draft pundits, obviously, believe the Trojan star is the best receiver in the 2026 class. But many are impressed by Tate’s all-round skills and ability to make an immediate impact in the NFL. If he loses to the Dolphins at 11, Miami’s decision-makers won’t be disappointed.

Tate had a breakout season in 2025, posting 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 51 catches.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Fernando Mendoza has already made a serious name for himself ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Indiana Hoosiers QB has stepped into leadership roles both on and off the field. Climbing up draft boards after having what was called one of the best single seasons by a Big Ten quarterback.

After transferring from Cal, the Miami native helped transform Indiana from a struggling program into a serious contender. That run ended with a perfect 16–0 record and the school’s first national championship. His statistics supported it, but what stood out was his composure in the big moments. This led to his Heisman win, where he received 84.6% of the votes.

Now, as he prepares for the draft, let’s take a deeper look at what made Fernando Mendoza who he is today.

What high school did Fernando Mendoza go to?

Mendoza went to Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, where, as quarterback on the football team, he completed 133 of his 203 pass attempts for 1,396 yards and 16 touchdowns with four interceptions, while also adding 137 yards and a touchdown on the ground in two seasons. He was just as good in the classroom, receiving a 4.7 GPA from school.

What college did Fernando Mendoza go to?

Mendoza graduated from Indiana University’s Haas School of Business; Before this, he attended the University of California.

What is Fernando Mendoza College GPA?

Mendoza has a 3.4 GPA in college after graduating from Indiana University.

What degree does Fernando Mendoza have?

Mendoza holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley. According to his LinkedIn, he also has a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Indiana University Bloomington.

Why did Fernando Mendoza transfer from Cal to Indiana?

When discussing his transfer, Mendoza said he saw Indiana as the best place for development, choosing the program instead of “blue bloods” like Georgia and Missouri because Cignetti promised to turn him into “the best Fernando Mendoza.” Mendoza stated that the primary reason for his departure was to find a system that could turn him into a “pro-ready quarterback”.

Another reason Mendoza decided to go to Bloomington was his younger brother, Alberto, who was already a redshirt freshman quarterback at Indiana.

How much did Fernando Mendoza make with zero money?

According to NFL sources, Mendoza is worth $2.6 million, which ranks him in the top five nationally among college football players.

Fernando Mendoza’s college statistics

Mendoza accumulated 8,267 passing yards and 71 TDs at California and Indiana. At Cal, during his 2 seasons, he has racked up 4,712 yards and 30 TDs. And at Indiana (2025): 3,535 yards, 41 TDs.

Will the Las Vegas Raiders draft Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall?

According to multiple reports, the draft is interested in drafting Mendoza as the No. 1 pick.

Kansas was eliminated from the second round of the NCAA Tournament after a two-point loss to St. John’s, 67-65, at Viejo Arena on Sunday.

Dylan Darling made the biggest shot of his career, sinking the game-winning layup as time expired to save the No. 5 Red Storm against the No. 4 Jayhawks.

One man who knows all about making an iconic shot in March Madness is former Kansas star Mario Chalmers. He made his name known in the college world in 2008 by missing a three-pointer against Memphis to send the title game into overtime. The Jayhawks ultimately won 75–68, earning their third national trophy.

Chalmers carried his championship pedigree to the NBA by winning back-to-back rings with the Miami Heat.

When asked by Bleacher Report what is more difficult to win between the NCAA Tournament and the NBA Finals, Chalmers had an easy answer.

Chalmers said, “I would have to say college just because it’s one-and-done. That one-and-done game you get every time. It took us three years to get to that (championship).”

“In the NBA, it’s a seven-game series. Getting there is definitely the hard part, but once you get there, you have to win four times, so you have more opportunities.”

Mario Chalmers says winning the NBA Finals was easier than winning the NCAA Tournament

Chalmers is a 2-time NBA champion with the Miami Heat and won the 2008 national championship with the Kansas Jayhawks. pic.twitter.com/zO9y4mtw5N

– Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) 23 March 2026

Kansas was on the verge of losing to the Tigers, who were led by Derrick Rose. But Kansas backed Chalmers and Darrell Arthur. Rose split his free throws with 10.8 seconds left in regulation, leading to Chalmers’ game-tying three-pointer.

Chalmers finished with 18 points, three rebounds, three assists and four steals and was named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament.

His clutch bucket will always be remembered as one of the greatest shots of the NCAA Tournament. There is no debate on that.

The Denver Nuggets have lost twice in their last four games and will look to regain momentum when they take on the 35-36 Portland Trail Blazers at home. Portland is on a three-game winning streak that has pushed them into play-in territory.

They are currently in 9th place in the East and are tied 1-1 with Denver in the season series. However, the Nuggets defeated them 157-103 in their last meeting and are the clear favorites to pick up another win on paper.

They are trailing several teams and are currently in 5th place in the Western Conference with a 43-28 record. The following predictions are based on odds by DraftKings.

Blazers vs. Nuggets Odds

Trail Blazers: +8.5 (-110)

Nuggets: -8.5 (-110)

Over: 241.5 (-110)

Under: 241.5 (-110)

Blazers vs. Nuggets Major Injuries

Portland remains shorthanded in key areas. Damian Lillard is out for the season, while Shaddon Sharp is also sidelined. Jerami Grant and Witt Krejci are both listed as day-to-day and their availability will be a gametime decision.

In comparison, Denver is almost completely healthy. With only Peyton Watson listed as questionable, their entire list of stars are fit and active for it.

Blazers vs. Nuggets Betting Trends

Denver is not having his most impressive season yet. However, they have been strong at home and fans can expect another win based on the following trends:

• The Nuggets are 4-1 in their last five home games.
• Denver averages 120.7 points per game (No. 1 in the NBA).
• The Nuggets lead the league in three-point percentage (39.2%).

The Trail Blazers, on the other hand, have their work cut out for them, and may face a mountain to climb in Denver.

• The Trail Blazers are 9-11 ATS as road underdogs.
• Portland’s average scoring margin in those games is -11.3.
• The Blazers rank 23rd in offensive rating this season.

Their most recent match ended in a massive 54-point victory for the Nuggets. However, with the series tied at 1-1 and recent momentum, the Trail Blazers will be hoping to pull off an upset, although their injury outlook is also worrisome.

Keys to the Blazers vs. Nuggets matchup

The Nuggets have one of the most efficient offenses in the league. Led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, Denver has the highest-scoring offense in the NBA (120.7 ppg).

Jokic averaged 28.1 points on 57.4% shooting and scored 32 points in less than 30 minutes during the blowout win. The Blazers rank 17th in opponent points in the paint, which plays directly into Jokic’s strengths as both a scorer and facilitator.

On the periphery, the difference is even more pronounced. Denver is leading at 39.2% from three (No. 1 in the NBA), while Portland is 29th at 33.8%. So, Denver not only has in-form stars, but they also have a more productive system. Despite the recent momentum, especially in the absence of Lillard and Sharp, the Trail Blazers have struggled to generate points.

Blazers vs. Nuggets Predictions and Picks

The Nuggets will try to dictate proceedings from the beginning. Jok can be expected to take charge once again. However, even if Portland manages to knock him out, Denver’s shooting talent and ability to slow down turnovers is bound to cause problems.

Murray scored 31 points in the last game and the Nuggets have more than enough shooters to cause problems all night long. However, the Trail Blazers will try to cause problems of their own.

Denny Advija, Donovan Clingan and Jerami Grant have all scored while Scooter Henderson and Jrue Holiday will also contribute. The Trail Blazers may need to shoot better than in recent games, leaving Jokic and company to go the distance.

Final Blazers-Nuggets predictions and picks: Denver Nuggets -8.5 (-110); Under 241.5 (-110)

A new rumor offers a major update on the potential penalty the NBA will hand out to the Los Angeles Clippers in regards to potential salary cap manipulation for signing Kawhi Leonard in 2019.

The Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer found themselves embroiled in an ugly scandal last year when investigative reporter Pablo Torre broke the news about potential salary cap manipulation by the organization. Obviously, when the team signed Leonard to a three-year, $103 million deal in the summer of 2019, it included a huge amount of off-the-books payment.

During his investigation, Torre found documents that showed the Clippers boss helped create a dummy company called Aspiration, which signed the star forward with a $28 million endorsement deal. Yet he never made any presentation on behalf of the brand. The support price was suspiciously close to making up the difference between what the Clippers could legally make and the maximum competing offer from the Toronto Raptors.

Following the damaging report, the NBA launched an investigation into LA’s possible dirty dealings in signing the seven-time All-Star. Although there has been no update on when a final decision might come from the league, there has been a lot of speculation about what the potential punishment could be for the Clippers. Well, it may have been revealed this week.

LA Clippers could lose 3 first-round picks due to Kawhi Leonard-aspiration scandal

During a new edition of the SiriusXM show starting lineupHosted by Frank Isola and NBA veteran Brian Scalabrine, NBA Insider claimed that sources told them the Clippers could lose three future first-round picks, and could also receive a monetary fine of up to $30 million.

Los Angeles has only three first-round selections in the next five NBA drafts. However, this may change depending on the trades made in the previous month. In any way. For a franchise that began its rebuild this year, losing three first-rounders could set the franchise back by nearly a decade.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The NASCAR Cup Series will travel to Las Vegas this weekend for the Pennzoil 400 on Sunday afternoon. Las Vegas Motor Speedway has delivered some exciting races in recent years, with the likes of Kyle Larson and William Byron dominating the track. Not surprisingly, they are among the favorites to win the NASCAR race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway this weekend.

Let’s take a look at the latest NASCAR odds for the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas this week. Odds are set through DraftKings on the Saturday before qualifying.

RELATED: NASCAR Power Rankings 2026, 10 best NASCAR drivers entering Las Vegas

NASCAR Odds This Week: Pennzoil 400

RELATED: NASCAR Cup Series Entry List Las Vegas 2026

This week’s NASCAR betting guide: 4 driver selections

Kyle Busch – Top-10 Finish (+215)

The start to the season hasn’t exactly been promising for Kyle Busch, especially if you exclude winning the pole for the Daytona 500. He has finished 20th or worse in the last two races and three times this season. However, this is a homecoming for the future Hall of Famer, and he finished eighth here in October. While last year the spring race in Las Vegas finished poorly (33rd place), he qualified in fourth place. We believe Busch can rediscover some of the magic in Las Vegas and finish in the top-10.

Ross Chastain – Top-5 Finish (+210)

Ross Chastain and the No. 1 team arrived in Las Vegas hoping to get back on track after a rough two-race stretch at COTA (35th) and Phoenix (28th). It’s worth remembering some context with those results. At COTA, Chastain had one of the fastest cars, before the right rear tire separated on lap 75. Last weekend, Chastain was running sixth when Joey Logano came at him, and the No. 1 car spun off the track and into traffic. He has consistently placed himself in the top 10 in the final stages and is ranked top-3 (Atlanta) this season. At Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where she has three top-fives and an average finishing position of 9.3 in the last six races, we believe Chastain is capable of finishing fourth or better.

Denny Hamlin – Top-3 Finish (+210)

After finishing among the top five cars at Daytona (31st) and Atlanta (13th) only to suffer damage and withdraw, Denny Hamlin and the No. 11 team have put together a stellar performance. He finished 10th at COTA, which he admits was like a top five for him, and then finished fifth at Phoenix with the third-most stage points. A shoulder injury aggravated before the season appears to be becoming less of a problem and he is now back on the track where he won last October. Although we’re not predicting the No. 11 team celebrating a win on Sunday, we will say it has a top-3 finish in the spring race at Las Vegas for the first time since 2007.

Joey Logano – Race Winner (+1100)

The temptation is certainly there to pick either Kyle Larson or Christopher Bell to win the Pennzoil 400 on Sunday. We are going in a different direction. While Joey Logano finished 15th in the spring race here last season, he finished with the third-most laps led (40) and a second-place finish. In 2024, he won the pole at Las Vegas and finished ninth. After wasting last Sunday, we’re predicting the No. 22 team will score its first win of the season at Las Vegas and make it two wins in a row for Team Penske.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

The Denver Nuggets have lost two of their last three games and will now host the Minnesota Timberwolves at Ball Arena in Denver. Minnesota comes into this game off of two consecutive wins, the latest win being away from home against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Both teams are 37-23 on the season, leading to a head-to-head tie for the No. 4 spot in the Western Conference. Denver enters the Draft as a slight home favorite on DraftKings to move on from Friday’s loss against Oklahoma City, which was a repeat of last year’s conference semifinals.

Timberwolves vs. Nuggets Odds

• Minnesota Timberwolves: +2.5 (-110)
• Denver Nuggets: -2.5 (-110)
• Above: 237.5 (-110)
• Under: 237.5 (-110)

Timberwolves vs. Nuggets Major Injuries

Denver Nuggets The Nuggets’ depth will once again be tested with several high-profile absentees. Anthony Gordon is set to be out along with Peyton Watson, who are both dealing with hamstring issues. Tamar Bates is a long-term absence while Spencer Jones is questionable and Cameron Johnson is probable.

The Timberwolves are relatively healthy and their injury situation is nearly clear. They have listed Julius Randle as questionable due to lower back spasms.

Timberwolves vs. Nuggets Betting Trends

Denver has won the last three head-to-head meetings against Minnesota, including a 142-138 overtime thriller in their last matchup. The Timberwolves have failed to cover the spread in four consecutive games.

Conversely, Denver is a perfect 3-0 ATS in its last three games against Minnesota. Denver has seen the over hit in 38 of its 60 games this season (63.3%). The Nuggets have been excellent in coverage on the road (21-12), but have struggled a bit in ball arenas, posting a 13-14 ATS home record.

Keys to the Timberwolves vs. Nuggets matchup

The outcome of this game depends on Denver’s ability to work around Nikola Jokic’s traditional talent. The Nuggets have performed well as a unit and have averaged 120.5 points per game on overall shooting on 49% from the field.

Much will depend on the infighting between Rudy Gobert and Jokic, with Jamal Murray also coming into form recently, giving the Nuggets another significant scoring threat. However, the Timberwolves will hope Anthony Edwards can take over.

The All-Star has been poor throughout the campaign, averaging 29.6 points on the season. Minnesota will be determined to use the Nuggets’ thin rotation to dominate important stretches of the game.

Timberwolves vs. Nuggets Predictions and Selections

While the Timberwolves are headed on the road, it’s hard to ignore Denver’s historic lead in this specific matchup. The Nuggets have won the last three times between these teams, and Jokic usually finds a way to neutralize Gobert’s rim protection by staying away from the paint, especially in the presence of Murray.

ATS Selection: Nuggets-2.5 Select O/U: under 237.5

The Los Angeles Lakers will be looking to travel to Chase Center to play the in-form Golden State Warriors, having lost three of their last four games. The Warriors come into this game in better form, having won two of their last three games, including the latest, which was a 133-112 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.

The Lakers have been given a big boost given the confirmation of Stephen Curry out in addition to Jimmy Butler. Their own injury report is almost clear, and they will once again look to Luka Doncic to provide offensive boost. The overall injury scenario has also transformed into odds, with DraftKings giving favorable odds to the visitors.

Lakers vs Warriors Odds

Lakers: -4.5

Warrior: +4.5

Above: 229.5

Under: 229.5

Lakers vs. Warriors Major Injuries

Stephen Curry has been officially ruled out with a knee injury. The Warriors will also be without Jimmy Butler III, Seth Curry and LJ Cryer. Forward Draymond Green is listed as probable, while big man Kristaps Porzingis is questionable to suit up.

The Lakers enter the contest relatively healthy, with Rui Hachimura questionable and two absent, including Bronny James, due to G League assignment.

Lakers vs Warriors Betting Trends

The Lakers are 21-13 against the spread (ATS) as a favorite this season, including a sharp mark of 10-6 ATS as a road favorite. Los Angeles has been extremely profitable in tight lines, going 7-2 ATS when favored by between two and five points. They are also 4-2 ATS in their last six meetings with Golden State.

Golden State has struggled to cover recently, posting a 3-7 ATS record in their last 10 games. They are 5-8 ATS this season entering as underdogs by 4.5 points or more.

Overs have been a major trend in this rivalry, with eight of the last 10 head-to-head contests between the Lakers and Warriors being overmatched. The over has been hit in 57.6% of Golden State’s games this season, including five of their last six contests.

Keys to Lakers vs. Warriors matchup

The Lakers (34-24) arrived at Chase Center desperate to stop a three-game losing streak, which included a 22-point loss against the Celtics and a close 113-110 loss at Phoenix. They have all three of their Big-3 fit and firing, although that has been the case in recent defeats. Still, the Lakers know they face a lineup without their best players and they have enough firepower to pull out a dominant win.

Golden State will need Draymond Green to orchestrate the offense while solidifying the defense, while they will continue to rely on Brandin Podziemski (12.3 ppg) and Moses Moody (12.0 ppg) for scoring.

Lakers vs Warriors Predictions and Selections

The Lakers have a stellar 18-12 record on the road and are looking much better on the injury report. Without Curry, the Warriors are always vulnerable and may struggle to hold up against the stack attack.

Additionally, LA continues to show weakness inside the paint and has actually gotten worse with their best players on the court. Still, this should prove straightforward for Luka Doncic and company.

Spread Pick: Lakers -4.5

Over/Under Pick: more than 229.5

San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Ingram has spent much of this season honing his skills behind the scenes. The quiet development of the 2024 second-round pick has been a source of satisfaction within the Spurs organization.

Ingram was named G League Player of the Week after averaging 22.2 points, 13.4 rebounds and 7.4 assists in his last five appearances with the Austin Spurs. He recorded four double-doubles and one triple-double, while Austin posted a 4–1 record.

Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson said of Ingram’s development, “The Player of the Week is definitely trending in the right direction.” “I think it’s always somewhat gratifying for him, somewhat beneficial as an organization and a staff, and somewhat fun when you have a young player in your program for a year and they’re grinding, especially when you’re in the G League and it can be a little out of sight, out of mind to the outside world. You’re selling them on slowly getting better and keeping up with the process.

“It can be hard for young guys when, sometimes, they don’t get the attention or direct feedback that they’re looking for or that they’re used to, especially because a lot of them end up being really good college players. So it’s great for him to continue to be that way and see the improvement and development that he’s had and to be recognized in a very deserving way.”

Ingram, the No. 48 pick in the 2024 draft out of North Carolina, has spent most of this season in the G League, appearing in just five NBA games.

Harrison Ingram showing improvement in G League after signing two-way contract

The 6-foot-5 forward’s two-way development with Austin has been encouraging for San Antonio. Ingram is averaging 16.1 points, 12.7 rebounds and 4.8 assists on 48.2 percent shooting in 21 G League appearances.

“He’s really accepted his role and embraced it,” Johnson said. “It can be hard to do that in terms of your role as a defender, a physical role player, playing off the ball to a certain extent. But always trying to extend or create more possessions with offensive rebounds, hitting open shots, getting out and running in transition, and obviously we want him to be a dominant defender and be able to rebound. I think that’s something he’s really embraced and you’ve seen it. And sometimes when you do that If you do it, you get a monster production with it, you can tell he has put his energy in the right places.”

The Spurs signed Ingram to a one-year, two-way contract before this season.

NBA insider Mark J. Spears said Wednesday that he would choose LeBron James over Luka Doncic as the Los Angeles Lakers’ closer in late-game situations, citing James’ versatility and track record in tough times.

Speaking on NBA Today, Spears pointed to the final sequence of the Lakers’ 110-109 loss to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night, when Los Angeles had 6.7 seconds left and a chance to win. James inbounded the ball to Doncic, who then gave James an open look for a contested fadeway 3-pointer over Jonathan Isaac on the left wing.

“There aren’t a lot of players in the NBA who close out games better than LeBron James and in a one-to-two minute span, Luka made three shots, Austin made three shots. LeBron James is standing on the sideline and Desmond Benn is guarding him, he’s taller than Desmond Benn, fifty pounds heavier, and he’s there when they’re doing that one-on-one. And I think as great as Luka is, I want the ball. In LeBron James’ hands because he can take the ball to the basket, pass out to Luka, pass out to Austin, I don’t think he should have taken the ball out at the end of the game… and he’s too close and he didn’t get a chance to pass.

“I think as great as Luca [Doncic] I want the ball to be in LeBron James’ hands because he can take the ball to the basket, pass out to Luka, pass out to Austin [Reaves]…He’s too close and didn’t get a chance to close.

– Mark J. spearspic.twitter.com/WTkSYy3lio

– ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 25 February 2026

LeBron James, Luka Doncic’s stat lines fuel Lakers close debate

James finished with 21 points, six rebounds, four assists and two blocks in 32 minutes. He shot 8 for 13 from the field and 3 for 4 from the free-throw line, while also knocking down two 3-pointers.

Doncic recorded 22 points, 15 assists and nine rebounds in 38 minutes but struggled with efficiency. He shot 8 of 24 from the field, 2 of 10 from 3-point range, and 4 of 9 from the free-throw line.

The late-game decision has fueled discussion about the roles played on key possessions for the Lakers, who fell to 34-23 with the loss and lost their second consecutive game. A four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, James has long been considered one of the league’s most reliable finishers, especially in playoff settings. Doncic, meanwhile, has built a reputation as a high-usage playmaker capable of creating shots under pressure.

The Lakers are now trying to regroup as they begin a two-game road trip against the Phoenix Suns (33-26) on Thursday night starting at 6:00 pm PT. With competition tight in the Western Conference standings, clarity in late-game execution could prove crucial as Los Angeles enters the final stretch of the regular season.

Two years away from having the 12th pick in the 2024 draft, Oklahoma City Thunder executive vice president and GM Sam Presti has both prospects — Nikola Topic and Jared McCann — he backed up Mark Daigneault. The timing of both guards could not have come at a better time. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is out with an abdominal injury, Ajay Mitchell hasn’t played since January, and Jalen Williams will be reevaluated in March.

Losing three of its leading scorers shows that Oklahoma City is unable to get close to its 119.4 point average without its reigning MVP and two of the Thunder’s top four scorers. It’s a good thing Presti parted ways with a 2026 first-round pick and two future seconds at the trade deadline to acquire a young guard he’s had his eye on since McCann’s 2024 pre-draft workout with the Thunder.

Presti also trusted the 19-year-old Serbian prospect with an old-school approach to the point guard position despite suffering a season-ending ACL injury. Presti was fine with the debut of Topch, who was selected by the Thunder at No. 12 in 2025-26. Back then, no one could have predicted what would happen after the Thunder preseason games. Now, McCain and Topic are both playing in Oklahoma City at unexpected times in their respective careers.

Jared’s trade to the Philadelphia 76ers made him cry. The subject is four months away from a cancer diagnosis. This was all unexpected, but they both fit like a glove into the Thunder’s offense. McCann’s ability to make open threes and create space gives Daigneault another scorer to utilize. Topic gives the Thunder a secondary playmaker who can score quickly off the bench, which he has already proven in the first two games of his NBA career.

It’s another win for coach Mark Daigneault and Thunder GM Sam Presti amid the defending champions’ quest to win back-to-back titles.

Jared McCann scores season-high in Thunder vs. Nets win

Second-year guard Jared McCain has made at least one 3-pointer in each of his five appearances with the Thunder. He’s also efficient at connecting on 9 of 20 (45%), including half of his six 3-point attempts in a 105-86 win against the Nets. McCain led the Thunder with a season-high 21 points on 7-for-12 shooting, four rebounds and one steal. And his presence has also had a positive impact on the defending champion’s supporting cast.

Isaiah Joe, who has missed at least two threes in five consecutive games, extended his streak to six to 11 points as his hot streak continued in Friday’s win against the Nets. Joe shot a career-best 41.7% clip from deep this season. However, that percentage has increased to 55.8% with McCann making 19 of 34 attempts in the five games since his arrival.

Still, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault reminded reporters it’s not all about shooting with McCain and Joe, as their increased roles amid Oklahoma City’s injuries have elevated them to do other things that help win.

“It’s not the only thing they do,” Daigneault said. “Jared is a guy that – he’s dynamic offensively – there’s a lot more to his game than spot-up shooting. You could see it tonight. Again, Isaiah Joe rebounded the ball great tonight. We play short games with him on the court, even though he’s a light guy because he’s good physically, he executes, and he gets his nose in the ball to make plays.

“It’s not just taking advantage of the shooting. It’s being able to put them out there because of the other skills they bring. But, yes, we have optionality, and that’s what you want. You never know what you need. You never know who’s going to do well. We obviously try to lean into that with changing rotations and lineups, and they definitely give us more options,” Daigneault concluded.

Since McCann joined the Thunder, Joe has averaged 15.8 points on 49.4% shooting, including 55.8% from deep, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game.

“We all have a role to play, and we all know it, and he’s done a great job of helping me with that. I think once we get the ball moving, we can all create shots for each other. Once we get the ball moving, good things are going to happen,” McCain said. “[We’re] This becomes known as we move forward. It’s hard to do it without those people. “However, we are figuring it out.”

Nikola Topic’s playmaking wraps up Thunder’s win

While Jared McCann and Isaiah Joe’s scoring gave the Thunder double-digit relief, Nikola Topic, in his second NBA game, closed the door in the final frame with playmaking, shooting and smooth finishing at the rim. For coach Mark Daigneault, the Thunder’s theme is a traditional pure point guard with a pass-first mentality, and the confidence to score when he sees fit.

Daigneault says Topic is proof of what’s missing in the NBA modern day point guard During the Thunder head coach’s postgame media availability on Friday.

“There aren’t a lot of real pure point guards in basketball anymore. There’s incredible skill, but there’s not a ton of traditional team runners, those guys, and that’s it: He can run your team,” Daigneault said. “He’ll settle you down to ground level. He understands what we’re trying to achieve, even at this very early stage of his career, and he’s got the ability to go along with it.

“He’s still got a long way to go. Offensively he’s got a lot to learn in terms of getting the edge, reading different coverages that he’s going to see as the league gets to know him a little bit; it’ll be a new challenge for him. But he’s off to a great start.”

Topic finished with nine points, three rebounds and two assists in 11 minutes, as the rookie guard is finding his feet in the early stages of his career. Still, Daigneault feels his team will benefit from the influence of both McCann and Topic amid the Thunder’s title defense.

The NBA is getting ready for the homestretch of the season, restarting the season following the end of NBA All-Star Weekend. Thursday night was the restart of the season, and the night’s game was an Eastern Conference showdown between the Detroit Pistons and the New York Knicks. The Pistons won 126–111, thanks to Cade Cunningham, but it strengthened the argument that these were the two best teams in the East.

NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson has been known to make some big moves on social media during the NBA season since leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. He spoke after watching the game on Thursday Pistons and Knicks picked to reach Eastern Conference Finals, but worth keeping an eye on The Cavaliers, 76ers, and even the Celtics.

After the game, Johnson praised the Pistons’ performance, especially that of point guard Cade Cunningham after he took over and led Detroit to a big win.

Johnson said, “NBA fans around the world, I hope you didn’t see Detroit Pistons superstar Cade Cunningham’s performance last night against the New York Knicks. He had a spectacular performance, scoring 42 points, 13 assists and 8 rebounds! Cade scored from everywhere on the court – the three-pointer, the midrange jumper, and he was taking it to the basket. When he dunked on the three he may have had the best game of the year. Hits with the left hand!”

New York had some moments, with Jalen Brunson scoring 30 and Karl-Anthony Towns adding 21 points and 11 boards, but the Knicks struggled from three-point range and couldn’t get enough stops on defense to really swing momentum. Detroit consistently created separation, extended the advantage into the high teens late in the game and never allowed it to get into danger.

Johnson’s confidence in the Knicks and Pistons stems from the fact that both teams have been the most consistent in the Eastern Conference. There’s a lot to like about teams like the Cavaliers, 76ers and Celtics, but the consistency of those top two is what sets them apart and is a significant difference.

One of the NBA’s greatest point guards has decided to hang up his shoes for good. Chris Paul announced his retirement from the NBA earlier this week. Paul, who played for several teams in his career, finished as one of the greatest point guards of his generation.

Of all the teams that Paul has played for in his career, which team does he think is the best? For the player known as the “Point God,” the answer is obvious: the San Antonio Spurs. The retired NBA veteran recently talked about this in an appearance on a Twitch stream. He showed a plaque that Spurs had sent him containing photos of him at different teams and a list of the players he had assisted the most.

“Best organization I’ve played for.”

Chris Paul on Spurs 🗣

(via thetililshow/Twitch)pic.twitter.com/fNZUQLY5s0

– ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 18 February 2026

The Spurs were the second to last team that Paul played for before his retirement. The point guard played for San Antonio in 2024, briefly playing alongside French superstar Victor Wembanyama. While the Spurs did not have much team success that season, Paul was still an integral part of the team and led to Wembanyama’s growth into the monster that the NBA knows today.

Chris Paul started his NBA career in 2005 with the New Orleans Hornets. Selected fourth overall by the team, Paul played seven seasons with the team. He would then be traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he would become known as the conductor of the now-iconic “Lob City” teams. Those two teams are the teams where Paul stayed the longest.

After his tenure with the Clippers ended, Paul returned to a few teams. He would go on to be a part of the Houston Rockets teams that challenged the Golden State Warriors in the late 2010s. He then spent some time in Oklahoma City, where he teamed up with a young Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His closest chance to make it to the NBA Championship came in Phoenix, where he made the NBA Finals in 2021.

Paul will play with the Warriors for one year in 2023 before his time with the Spurs. The NBA legend joined the Clippers this season, which was considered Paul’s retirement tour. However, his tenure with the Clippers ended in disaster after Paul was benched and sent home midway through the season. Paul was traded to the Raptors before the trade deadline, who promptly released him moments before his retirement.