In vintage Steph Curry and Draymond Green fashion, the Golden State Warriors eliminated the Los Angeles Clippers with a thrilling comeback win in the play-in tournament, 126-121.

Wednesday's contest featured multiple Golden State staples — an explosive Curry flurry in the third quarter and a vintage Green defensive performance against Kawhi Leonard in the fourth quarter. Yet, it wasn't just Curry and Green; Golden State newcomers Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis each left their fingerprints all over their season-saving victory over the Clippers. Porzingis helped spark the Warriors' offense throughout the game with a pair of rim-rocking dunks and timely shots. While Horford drilled four 3-pointers in the fourth quarter.

After the Warriors punched their ticket to the next round of the play-in tournament, spectators on social media exploded with reactions. Here's a look at what different fans, writers and analysts were saying on X on Wednesday night.

STEPH CURRY GIVES THE WARRIORS THE LEAD!

GSW 120
LAC 117

50.4 TO PLAY IN A MUST-WIN GAME 🍿 pic.twitter.com/HgYTHtLlOp

— NBA (@NBA) April 16, 2026

New chain for SC30! pic.twitter.com/Q6aQYpK977

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 16, 2026

Steph Curry: The greatest show in sports. Still.

— Danny Emerman (@DannyEmerman) April 16, 2026

Draymond Green master class

— Grant Liffmann (@GrantLiffmann) April 16, 2026

Go plant some trees

— Brian Witt (@Wittnessed) April 16, 2026

30 pic.twitter.com/k9ZY6lkRBM

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

This is unbelievable.

Draymond Green completely shut down Kawhi Leonard in the 4th quarter. The Claw is scoreless in the 4th.

— Bonta Hill (@BontaHill) April 16, 2026

Dray turning back the clock to make big time stops down the stretch

— AJ S (@saelee0) April 16, 2026

IN STEPH WE TRUST

— Melissa (she/her)🍉 (@churameru) April 16, 2026

Draymond and Steph… never gets old.

— Saad (@saadgsw) April 16, 2026

Intuit is just Chase South just like SoFi is for the Niners 🤣

— Louisiana Dry Rub Stan Account (@christeauxpher) April 16, 2026

ERASED https://t.co/w0j1LLFKZApic.twitter.com/smUo22TiyL

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

MVP chants for Curry, old-school Warriors echoes for the team, and Golden State will live to fight another day. What an effort from this squad, given the injuries they've suffered.

Onto Phoenix where they'll play for the 8th seed in the Western Conference Playoffs.

— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) April 16, 2026

I cannot believe what I just witnessed

— 🇿🇦Denver🇵🇸 (@doubledworth) April 16, 2026

Draymond it's games like this we'll remember you by

— Alex 👋 (@Dubs408) April 16, 2026

Oh

My

Goodness#dubnation

— Mark Willard (@Mark_T_Willard) April 16, 2026

HOW DID THEY FLIP THIS GAME UNBELIEVABLE @warriors

— Joe Shasky (@ButcherBoy415) April 16, 2026

Stephen Curry improves his record in elimination games to 11-5.

He finishes with 35 points tonight, including 27 in the 2nd half. Unreal performance

— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) April 16, 2026

Vintage Draymond Green defense down the stretch on Kawhi Leonard. Steph Curry scores 35 in 36 minutes. Al Horford hits four mammoth fourth quarter 3s. Kristaps Porzingis scores 20.

Veteran Warriors save their season in LA and face Suns on Friday for shot at the eighth seed.

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 16, 2026

Draymond Green's defense on Kawhi, Horford's heater - and Curry leading the way.

We'll see you Friday night in Phoenix. WOW!

— Bonta Hill (@BontaHill) April 16, 2026

Fun Fact: Steph and Porzingus have never lost a post game together.

— Warriors Huddle (@WarriorsHuddle) April 16, 2026

MOOD pic.twitter.com/dzVzUoNfxm

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

Awesome game. Steph was amazing, Draymond played at a DPOY level. Horford erupted in the 4th after a rough 1st half and Podz hung in and made some clutch plays down the stretch. Turns out they really really wanted to win this one. On to Phoenix.

— Dan Dibley (@dandibley) April 16, 2026

gonna enjoy these two while they're still here pic.twitter.com/IWulm4STyM

— Chris Montano (@gswchris) April 16, 2026

A podcaster just single-handedly ended the best season of Kawhi’s career.

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

I’m never ever ever taking Steph Curry for granted.

— De🅿️ressed Warriors Fan 💔 (@GoIdenState) April 16, 2026

Warriors pull off an unbelievable comeback late in LA.
An absolute meltdown late by the Clippers. And a reminder that the Warriors' standard is never going to disappear as long as Curry and Green are on the floor. Steph was Steph. Porzingis and Horford were huge. Phoenix on Fri

— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) April 16, 2026

STEPH CURRY VS THE CLIPPERS

🐐 pic.twitter.com/8ygzoKrZtm

— Guru (@DrGuru_) April 16, 2026

The Oklahoma City Thunder will now be in the lottery because of this Clippers loss. What have the Warriors just done.

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

The Greatest Show in Sports Entertainment

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

New Jimmy Butler meme pic.twitter.com/GLSpHs9kwF

— Guru (@DrGuru_) April 16, 2026

No matter what happens from here, it was special to see the Warriors touch God one more time. Even if it was only for a few minutes at the end of a play-in game, that was very cool.

— Jay King (@ByJayKing) April 16, 2026

Dillon Brooks vs. Steph & Draymond sudden death game on deck. Everything is wrestling.

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

These are the types of games that fans remember. This is why teams and players want to compete. This was meaningful basketball. #DubNation

— Dr. Nirav Pandya, M.D. (@DrNiravPandya) April 16, 2026

A Draymond and Steph absolute masterclass to earn the Warriors another game.

The 2 most important people in the Warriors dynasty fighting to the very end.

Championship level effort in the play-in.

You gotta love it.

— nick wright (@getnickwright) April 16, 2026

There's nobody like Stephen Curry in a play-in game. pic.twitter.com/uWrPUd1OTZ

— Nate Duncan (@NateDuncanNBA) April 16, 2026

No other team in my lifetime has delivered as many memorable high profile games and moments as Steph and Draymond’s Warriors. More than a decade into this and they still have nights like this in them.

— Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) April 16, 2026

Harlan on the call for Steph is magic pic.twitter.com/xFtqF6YcVj

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

Stephen Curry…..simply one of the greatest to ever play the game

— Dr. Nirav Pandya, M.D. (@DrNiravPandya) April 16, 2026

Absolute dawgs pic.twitter.com/UIoE3tTvuG

— 🇿🇦Denver🇵🇸 (@doubledworth) April 16, 2026

CHRIS PAUL’S INSTAGRAM STORY LMAOOOOOO pic.twitter.com/EDXOMqBhr8

— 30🅿️roblemz (@30problemz) April 16, 2026

Draymond Green locking up Kawhi Leonard in the 4th quarter pic.twitter.com/tPPX9yoVIp

— Hater Report (@HaterReport) April 16, 2026

The greatest point guard of all-time. No debate. pic.twitter.com/r1YrxFuyg8

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 16, 2026

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Social media explodes with reactions to Warriors' win over Clippers

Sporting News Player of the Year: Victor Wembanyama has already arrived as the NBA's best player originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Derrick Rose was the youngest MVP in NBA history, winning the award in just his third season at the age of 22 years and seven months old for his hometown Chicago Bulls. Victor Wembanyama is going to break a lot of records over the course of his career, but that is one of the few that will be outside of his eight-foot reach. At 22 years and three months old, he's widely expected to finish No. 2 behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander this season in official voting.

But, that won't stop Sporting News from naming Wembanyama our youngest ever NBA Player of the Year. Gilgeous-Alexander is a worthy candidate. His Thunder team finished with the best record in the West ahead Wemby's Spurs, and he's played over 400 more minutes despite also dealing with injuries this season. But, the numbers and impact certainly do not lie: Wemby has been the best player in the league this season.

Why Victor Wembanyama is Sporting News' 2026 Player of the Year

Victor Wembanyama is already the best defender in league history

Mark Eaton holds the NBA career record with 3.50 blocks per game. Wembanyama hasn't played enough seasons yet to qualify for that leaderboard, but he is right there with 3.47. Wemby would get more of them too, but even the greatest players in the league are terrified to challenge him. 

Earlier in the season, Luka Doncic found himself underneath the basket with a chance to score. Instead, he whipped a pass behind his head to get the ball out of the paint. "If it's not Wemby, I go for the layup," he explained afterwards. 

"You literally don't even want to go to the hole when he's on the floor," LeBron James said recently on his Mind the Game podcast.

When players do sneak a layup attempt past Wembanyama, they convert those shots at one of the lowest rates in the league. The Spurs are No. 4 in the league in how few layups they allow and No. 3 in the field goal percentage that opponents shoot on those attempts.

If Wembanyama were simply a rim protector, it would be one thing. But he can guard anyone, anytime, anywhere. He covers more ground than anyone, and he has a defensive motor that rivals Steph Curry's on offense. 

Just your normal 7’5 center chasing Steph Curry around the court, switching on to Draymond, disrupting GPII at the rim, and then doing it himself on the other end

WEMBY IS SCARY pic.twitter.com/5FvDvkuJ2e

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) November 13, 2025

Wembanyama is going to win the Defensive Player of the Year award in a landslide if he squeaks past the 65 games requirement. And this is the worst he's going to be defensively for the next decade or more.

Wemby laid out his MVP case himself by stating that defense is 50 percent of the game. While some might disagree with that statement, he is the most dominant defender that I have witnessed in over 30 years of watching the NBA. The sheer scale of his impact is a worthy cornerstone to his candidacy for our award, even if defense isn't quite as important as offense. 

MORE:Joe Mazzulla is the Sporting News NBA coach of the year

Victor Wembanyama is a better offensive player than the stats suggest

Wembanyama's 24.8 points per game are at a top 15 mark, but not near the 31.3 points or 28.0 points of his competitors Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. Both are better passers than him as well, although Wemby is no slouch. The same goes for shooting percentages, where Wemby is good but not elite. 

Where Wembanyama has those guys beat is with his 172 dunks, which ranks fifth in the league. Dunks certainly shouldn't be the only measure of offensive talent, but they do illustrate that Wemby's vertical threat is where he contributes the most to the Spurs' offense. He has the biggest catch radius in the league, and opponents must constantly be focused on keeping him as far away from the basket as possible.

When Wemby is within dunking range, all he has to do is point up and one of his guards is getting the Spurs an automatic two points. 

WEMBY DETONATES OVER KON pic.twitter.com/OTEyltq3FL

— WembyMuse (@Wemby_Muse) January 31, 2026

Wemby being a mere fifth on the dunkers list doesn't sound all that impressive, until you realize that he's also made 120 3's on the year and the four guys ahead of him have made a combined 87. While other guys get their dunks by being specialists, Wemby makes it impossible to guard him by also being able to score from anywhere. 

Other greats recognize how impossible of a cover this makes him. After playing the Spurs, Jokic explained to the NBA on Prime broadcast how much the Nuggets struggled to contain him.

"He's the most unique player on both sides of the floor," Jokic said. "He challenges you so many ways defensively because his ability to shoot the ball. He's one dribble at the basket dunking the ball, a lob threat."

The attention that Wembanyama receives opens up everything for the rest of the Spurs offense. They shoot better, and they take better shots. To wit, every single rotation player on the Spurs improves their effective field goal percentage when they share the court with him, per PBP stats. And as Hoops Tonight's Jason Timpf has noted, the Spurs are generating the most corner 3's in NBA history mainly because of his gravity. 

Wemby's impact shows up all over the advanced stats too. Per Cleaning the Glass, the Spurs are 15.6 points per 100 better with him on the floor, ranking in the 99th percentile of all players. 

Wemby is simply the best two-way player in the game right now, as fellow MVP candidate Jaylen Brown said on a livestream earlier this season. 

"When I say I’m the best two-way player in the league, it’s not counting Wemby. He’s not even human. I’m the best human player."

Victor Wembanyama has completely transformed the Spurs into title contenders

The Spurs mostly returned the same group of players that won 34 games last season. Newcomer backup center Luke Kornet has certainly helped in making them better, as has rookie Dylan Harper. But if you take Wembanyama off this team, they're probably winning less than half of their games.

With Wemby's improvement, they've won over 60 games this season for the first time since 2017. They finished runner-up in the NBA Cup and likely would have won had Wemby not been on a minutes restriction. They've competed with the best of the best, taking three of four from the Thunder during the regular season. 

Some people will need to see Wembanyama prove it in the playoffs before they anoint him the best player in the league. I've already seen enough. He's doing things on a nightly basis that nobody else in the league can even come close to approaching. He's already the best player in the league, and he's done more in less minutes than anyone.

Awards like this oftentimes lag a year behind. Wemby is simply too good to let that happen. He's our Player of the Year, and nobody is knocking him off his pedestal for the foreseeable future. 

MORE:Nikola Jokic, not Wemby, wins media voting for NBA's best player

Dalton Johnson‬: Steve Kerr: "This is why Steph came back. So to everybody out there who thought Steph should have taken the rest of the year off, this is what he does. This is who he is! If he's going to compete, he's going to compete. And it was just incredible to watch."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Steve Kerr: 'This is why Steph came back'

‪Oh No He Didn't‬: Steve Kerr: "For one night, we're us. We're champions again I know that that may sound crazy to everybody out there, it's a play in game. I don't care"

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Steve Kerr: "For one night, we're us. We're champions …

‪Dalton Johnson‬: Draymond Green tells me his emotions after the Warriors' WILD NBA play-in win against the Clippers: "Anytime you got Steph Curry, you got a chance. So it's on all of us to give him a chance to show his greatness. Everybody did their part."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Draymond Green: 'Anytime you got Steph Curry, you got a chance'

‪dan favale‬: blake griffin to stephen curry: "it was a lot more fun not watching it in person. i still got ptsd."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Blake griffin to stephen curry: "it was a lot more fun …

‪Nate Duncan‬: There's nobody like Stephen Curry in a play-in game.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: There's nobody like Stephen Curry in a play-in game

Ramona Shelburne: “30 did what 30 does. That was the 4th quarter.” Darius Garland on Stephen Curry and the Warriors.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “30 did what 30 does. That was the 4th quarter.” …

Darius Garland: "Not the way we wanted to end this season. But I take my hat off to this group, for real. All 15 guys played their butts off."

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Darius Garland: "Not the way we wanted to end this season. But I take my hat off to this group, for real. All 15 guys played their butts off."

— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "Not the way we wanted to end this season. But I take …

Farbod Esnaashari: Darius Garland on what he wanted to prove after getting traded to the Clippers: "I just wanted to really come out here and prove a point that I'm still one of those guys in this league... Just go on the drawing board this summer, get healthy, see what we can do with a full season."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I just wanted to really come out here and prove a …

But in the end, Durant made it clear that the upcoming playoff matchup between the Rockets and the Lakers simply shouldn't revolve around him and LeBron. "It’s always great playing against great players. You feel their presence on the floor even if you’re not matched up with them. But like all basketball players know — and anyone who’s around the game deeply understands — it’s much more than just one player. It’s much more than two or three players. You need a whole group of guys to go out there and win basketball games, especially at this level and especially four times against a team like that," Durant said after the Rockets' Wednesday practice. "So yeah, of course, on the outside looking in, casual fans might see it differently, but people who are in it every day know the matchup is much deeper than that. Yeah, the matchup is definitely fun—two great players who’ve been in the league a long time—but everybody involved in the series knows it’s more than that."

BasketNews

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "It’s always great playing against great players. You …

Benjamin Royer: Didn't realize this until now since it comes down to such a small margin ... but LeBron James put up a career-low in points per game in the 2025-26 season, fewer than his rookie campaign in Cleveland. 2003-04 (his rookie year): 20.936 ppg 2025-26 (his 23rd season): 20.933 ppg

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: LeBron James put up a career-low in points per game in …

Referee Ben Taylor left the play-in tournament game between the Golden State Warriors and the LA Clippers because of an injury Wednesday night. Taylor walked stiffly off the court and went up the tunnel behind one basket at Intuit Dome with 8:51 left in the third quarter. He was replaced by alternate referee Sean Corbin after a brief delay. The NBA sends a fourth alternate referee to every postseason game for exactly such a situation.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ben Taylor left the play-in tournament game between …

Through the first three games of the 2026 play-in tournament, each game was a hit, packed with action and drama from start to finish. On Friday night in Los Angeles, the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers followed suit, battling down to the wire in another thriller.

Despite their furious finish, the Golden State Warriors started ice cold. In the opening minutes of the win-or-go-home game, the Warriors found themselves trailing by double figures with the score 12-2. Despite the score, the Warriors continued to find a way to hang around. The Clippers were able to take another nine-point lead in the second quarter. In the third quarter, the Clippers again took a 10-point lead. Yet, they could never completely pull away from the Warriors. In the third quarter, Steph Curry took advantage.

After only scoring eight points in the first half, the All-Star point guard came alive in the third quarter. Curry caught fire, scoring 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting from the field with a trio of triples in the third quarter. One of Curry's 3-pointers came with a foul and a four-point play.

Behind Curry, the Warriors were able to shave the Clippers' lead down to six points and completely swing momentum before the start of the fourth quarter. After Curry's signature flurry in the third quarter, it was Al Horford's turn. The veteran big man was unconscious from beyond the arc in the fourth frame, drilling four 3-pointers to close out the game. Curry added 11 points with two more 3-pointers of his own as the Warriors stunned the Clippers in comeback fashion on the road with a 126-121 win in the No. 9 vs. No. 10 play-in game.

Along with leading the team in assists with nine, Draymond Green brought out a signature defensive performance down the stretch against Kawhi Leonard. After the Warriors took the lead with two minutes on the clock, Green forced back-to-back turnovers, sealing the game for the Warriors and ending the Clippers' season.

Curry finished with a game-high 35 points on 12-of-23 shooting from field with seven made 3-pointers to go along with four assists.

Outside of Curry, Horford and Green, Kristaps Porzingis and Gui Santos played key roles in the Warriors' upset win on Wednesday night. Both Porzingis and Santos each added 20 points against the Clippers. Porzingis finished with 20 points on 8-of-12 shooting with three made triples, five rebounds, five assists and two blocks in 28 minutes. Santos notched 20 points, six rebounds and five assists in 32 minutes.

The Warriors will now advance to the second leg of the play-in tournament against the No. 7 seed Phoenix Suns. The Suns are coming off a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday. The winner of Friday's game will punch a ticket to the playoffs and face the No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in round one of the postseason.

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors comeback to eliminate Clippers in play-in tournament thriller

LaMelo Ball fined after flagrant play injures Bam Adebayo as Hornets advance in play-In thriller originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Charlotte Hornets  escaped with a dramatic play-in victory Tuesday night, but the fallout from the game has quickly shifted attention away from the result and onto LaMelo Ball.

The NBA announced Wednesday that Ball was fined $35,000 for making “unnecessary and reckless contact” with Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat during Charlotte’s 127–126 overtime win. The league determined the play created a “significant injury risk,” and upon further review, upgraded the incident to a flagrant foul 2—despite no foul being called during the game.

The sequence occurred early in the second quarter and quickly became the defining moment of the night. After missing a shot inside, Ball fell near Adebayo, who had secured the rebound and was attempting to stay in bounds. As Adebayo moved, Ball swiped at his leg, sending the Heat star crashing to the floor. No whistle was blown, and play continued while Adebayo remained down.

Adebayo, who suffered a lower back injury on the play, did not return, finishing with just 11 minutes played. His absence loomed large as Miami’s season came to an end in heartbreaking fashion. Without their defensive anchor and interior presence, the Heat struggled to maintain control, opening the door for Charlotte’s late push.

Controversy overshadows clutch moment as Ball, Hornets move forward

Ball, meanwhile, delivered in the game’s biggest moment, scoring the winning layup with 4.7 seconds remaining in overtime. It capped a thrilling finish but did little to quiet the controversy surrounding his earlier actions.

Miami coach Erika Spoelstra did not hold back after the game, calling the play “dangerous” and suggesting Ball should have been ejected. His frustration reflected a broader sentiment from the Heat, who felt the missed call directly impacted the outcome.

Adding to the situation, the NBA also fined Ball an additional $25,000 for using profane language during a postgame television interview.

Now, as Charlotte prepares for a win-or-go-home matchup against the Orlando Magic for the No. 8 seed, the focus shifts back to basketball. Still, the incident—and its consequences—will linger as one of the most controversial moments of the postseason’s opening stage.

Hoping to go back-to-back as NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder will get the best of both worlds. It'll be another year where a hopeful deep playoff run is accompanied by another must-watch lottery night.

Thanks to the LA Clippers' 126-121 loss to the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament, the Thunder will be gifted another lottery pick. Like the previous ones from LA, this one is rooted in the seismic 2019 Paul George trade in that gift that keeps on giving.

The Clippers are knocked out of playoff contention. They have the 12th-best lottery odds. That means they'll swap with OKC's first-round pick, which will surely be in the late 20s range. Breaking down LA's lottery odds, it has a 1.5% chance to land at No. 1; 1.7% chance to land at No. 2; 1.9% chance to land at No. 3; 2.1% chance to land at No. 4; 86.1% chance to land at No. 12; 6.7% chance to land at No. 13; 0.1% chance to land at No. 14.

Of course, the Thunder have been directly gifted the No. 12 pick in a couple of previous NBA drafts. Most famously, LA gave OKC the No. 12 pick in 2022 when they were knocked out of the play-in tournament. That selection turned out to be Jalen Williams. Pretty, pretty good, I must say.

The 2026 NBA draft lottery will take place on Sunday, May 10. The 2026 NBA draft will take place from June 23-24.

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: OKC Thunder to receive 2026 NBA draft lottery pick from Clippers

Are Warriors in the playoffs? What Golden State's Play-In win over Clippers means for NBA playoff bracket originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Golden State Warriors entered as underdogs against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday and played like it for much of the game, but a monstrous fourth quarter from Al Horford on the offensive end and Draymond Green on the defensive end flipped the game upside down.

The Warriors eked out a 126-121 road win over the Clippers and avoided elimination, instead sending L.A. packing. 

The victory was a complete turnaround from a dismal finish to the season for Golden State and a realization of what Steve Kerr hoped would happen with Stephen Curry back on the floor after missing an extended regular season stretch with a knee injury. Now, the question is whether that kind of success is sustainable.

Here's what you need to know about what's next for the Warriors.

MORE:How Al Horford became Warriors' unlikely hero vs. Clippers

Are Warriors in the playoffs?

The Warriors have not yet clinched a playoff berth. Because they finished the regular season 10th in the West, they needed to win two games to reach the playoffs.

Golden State won the first game on Wednesday night in comeback fashion. With some help from Al Horford and Draymond Green alongside Stephen Curry, the Warriors staved off elimination and secured a winner-take-all matchup with the Suns on Friday.

The Warriors will go on the road to play for the No. 8 seed, but they didn't seem too intimidated by a road environment at the Intuit Dome. If they can pick up one more road win, a date with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs would await.

Here's what you need to know about when the Warriors will play again.

MORE:What's next for Clippers after elimination?

When do the Warriors play next?

• Date: Friday, April 17
• Time: 10 p.m. ET

The Warriors will face the Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on Friday at 10 p.m. ET. It will be the final game of the NBA Play-In Tournament, with the playoffs tipping off on Saturday.

The winner will advance to the playoffs and play Game 1 in Oklahoma City on Sunday.

NBA playoff bracket 2026

Eastern Conference

• (1) Pistons vs. (8) TBD
• (2) Celtics vs. (7) 76ers
• (3) Knicks vs. (6) Hawks
• (4) Cavaliers vs. (5) Raptors

Western Conference

• (1) Thunder vs. (8) TBD
• (2) Spurs vs. (7) Trail Blazers
• (3) Nuggets vs. (6) Timberwolves
• (4) Lakers vs. (5) Rockets

The Trail Blazers already locked up the No. 7 seed with their win on Tuesday, so the winner of Friday's game between the Suns and Warriors will receive the No. 8 seed and a first-round matchup with the reigning-champion Thunder.

Leonard has one year left on his deal. According to another league source, the Clippers believe the NBA’s investigation won’t result in significant punishment, and there is no expectation that Leonard’s contract will be voided. But with Leonard’s value re-established, the franchise must decide whether to extend him or explore a trade.

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Clippers don't expect Kawhi Leonard's contract to be voided

Farbod Esnaashari: Ty Lue on Kawhi Leonard's upcoming contract: "I haven't had a chance to think about that after that tough loss. I love the group that we have... Everything is just so fast this season, couldn't really stop and take time to implement what you want to implement."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ty Lue on Kawhi Leonard's upcoming contract: "I …

‪Lue is under contract through 2029. Garland is the Clippers’ new point guard of the future. They’re not going anywhere, a league source told The Athletic.

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: ‪Lue is under contract through 2029. Garland is the …

Collins was a great locker-room fit, but the Clippers will have competition for his services if he doesn’t reach an extension before unrestricted free agency. The many adjustments in his role, from position to whether he started, will be something that needs to be considered. Mathurin wants to start, but the Clippers have all the leverage and won’t need to promise anything to a player the Pacers chose not to extend before this season despite being the sixth pick in the 2022 draft. Beal is expected back next season after hip surgery, which will likely require picking up a player option he would have ideally declined if he were healthy. Lopez, Batum and Bogdanović are all great veteran role players, but they all have team options that the Clippers could decline for maximum flexibility. Jones and Dunn are extension eligible. Young rotation players like Miller and Sanders are also on team options, which the Clippers could pick up as part of team-friendly deals.

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Collins was a great locker-room fit, but the Clippers …

Farbod Esnaashari: Chris Paul posted this on Instagram roughly 15 minutes after the Clippers' were eliminated by the Warriors.

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Chris Paul posted this on Instagram roughly 15 minutes after the Clippers' were eliminated by the Warriors. pic.twitter.com/68rpQpfp0t

— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Chris Paul posted this on Instagram roughly 15 minutes …

Farbod Esnaashari: Ty Lue on Kawhi Leonard's fourth quarter struggles: "I thought Draymond did a good job being physical, denying the basketball, not letting him get to his spots... We didn't execute well with his blitzes."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I thought Draymond did a good job being physical, …

Noa Dalzell: Steph Curry on Al Horford, who had 4 straight made threes: "When it's winning time, that's what champions do."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Steph Curry on Al Horford, who had 4 straight made …

76ers' Andre Drummond 3-point stat is mind-blowing in its own way originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

If someone traveled to 2026 from a decade ago through some method of time travel, you could explain the modern NBA to them in one way:

Andre Drummond makes 3-pointers now.

Yep, the supreme rebounder and interior athlete is still around. And he's making important shots from beyond the arc for the Philadelphia 76ers.

This stat from Wednesday night is one of the most unbelievable ones all season, particularly if you haven't really watched the 76ers play:

Fun fact: Andre Drummond has made 30 corner threes this season, third-most on the Sixers.

Think about reading this sentence in 2016.

— Keerthika Uthayakumar (@keerthikau) April 16, 2026

MORE: Warriors' generational mistake may have cost Steph Curry

All told, Drummond entered Wednesday night's play-in action having made 32 3-pointers this season.

He entered the year with 18 total 3-pointers across his first 13 NBA seasons.

He made three last year for the Sixers, on 20 attempts, for just 15%.

This season, he's at just better than 35% from deep.

Drummond's seasons prior to 2025-26 included this many 3s: 1-0-0-2-2-0-5-5-1-4-0-0-0-0-3.

MORE: This is the most improbable triple-double in NBA history

He never shot better than 1-for-2 as a rookie, or 2-for-6 in 2015-16 for the Pistons.

It's clearly never been his role.

But in the modern NBA, it helps to space the floor, even if you're Andre Drummond. And surprisingly to many, he figured out how to do it.

More basketball news:

• What Doc Rivers firing means for Giannis trade
• Comparing Cooper Flagg's rookie season to LeBron James
• Mikal Bridges played just 23 seconds for the Knicks, on purpose
• Bronny James joins Warriors' 55th pick in NBA notoriety
• Bruce Brown played 82 games but didn't qualify for NBA's 65-game rule

Austin Reaves, the Los Angeles Lakers guard who has raised his production each season he has been in the NBA, will not be available to play when the Lakers begin their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets on Saturday. He's still recovering from the oblique strain he sustained nearly two weeks ago, and his timetable for a potential return is reportedly estimated at four to six weeks.

But this week, he has been seen getting some shots up at practice. On Tuesday, he took some shots while wearing slide sandals, and on Wednesday, he shot around while wearing sneakers, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN. It seemed to signify a small step forward in his recovery.

Los Angeles could certainly use Reaves' ability to hit from the outside, attack the paint, put pressure on the rim and get others involved at some point in the playoffs. During the regular season, he averaged 23.3 points on 49% field-goal shooting and 36% from 3-point range and 5.5 assists a game, and he ascended to second in the team's offensive pecking order.

Of course, Luka Doncic also suffered a hamstring strain on April 2, and his timetable for a possible return is expected to be roughly the same as Reaves' timetable. Doncic traveled to Spain to receive treatment for his injury, and he's expected to be back in the States on Friday.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Austin Reaves was seen on the basketball court on Wednesday

The play-in tournament contest against the Los Angeles Clippers got off on the wrong foot for the Golden State Warriors. In the opening minutes, the Warriors fell down by double-figures, trailing 12-2.

Despite digging an early hole, the Warriors got back into the game late in the first quarter. Helping spark the Warriors' mini comeback run was Kristaps Porzingis. With Brandin Podziemski at the free-throw line, the Latvian big man exploded through the lane and slamed an emphatic putback dunk.

Via @warriors on X:

OH MY GOODNESS KRISTAPS

📺 @NBAonPrimepic.twitter.com/x8cynhRaz5

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 16, 2026

After his early rim-rocking dunk, Porzingis wasn't done. Later in the first half, the veteran big man flew to the bucket for yet another highlight-reel putback dunk. After a Steph Curry missed 3-pointer, Porzingis attacked the rim for another powerful putback dunk.

KP in the clouds 🚀

📺 @NBAonPrimepic.twitter.com/8rObwXPwC1

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 16, 2026

KRISTAPS PORZINGIS PUTBACK JAM 😤 pic.twitter.com/yFaidNzgWT

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 16, 2026

Porzingis finished with nine points on 4-of-6 shooting from the field in 16 minutes in the first half against the Clippers. The Warriors went into the halftime locker room trailing 61-53.

Stay tuned to Warriors Wire for the latest updates from the play-in tournament.

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Kristaps Porzingis hammers pair of putback dunks vs. Clippers

LaVar Ball defends son LaMelo after Bam Adebayo tripping incident, rips Erik Spoelstra: 'We ain't getting stepped on' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Charlotte Hornets' biggest win in several years was an absolute thriller, but it didn't come without controversy.

The Miami Heat played most of the game without big man Bam Adebayo after he took a hard fall on the baseline and suffered a back injury early in the second quarter. Replay showed Hornets guard LaMelo Ball take a swipe at Adebayo's ankle, seemingly knocking him to the floor.

Ball wasn't called for a foul, but the NBA upgraded the incident to a flagrant foul on Wednesday and issued a fine, declining to suspend the former No. 3 pick for the Hornets' win-or-go-home game against the Orlando Magic on Friday.

On Wednesday, Ball's outspoken father took shots at some of his son's critics, including Heat coach Erik Spoelstra.

Here's what LaVar Ball had to say in a fiery rant in defense of his son.

MORE:Why wasn't LaMelo Ball suspended?

LaVar Ball calls out Erik Spoelstra

Lamelo Ball's father, LaVar, hit back at his son's critics in a video recorded on the set of his "Big Baller Podcast."

LaVar defended his son's actions, arguing there was no way LaMelo could have taken Adebayo down with one swipe at the ankle.

"I'm trying to figure how somebody could lay on their back, and with their left hand flip over a man 260 pounds," LaVar said.

After calling out media personalities Nick Wright and Jason Whitlock for their takes on the tripping incident and insulting their physical appearance, Ball hit Spoelstra as well.

"[Erik] Spoelstra, don't be making all these excuses talking about you don't want to make any excuses," LaVar said.

LAVAR BALL JUST RESPONDED TO NICK WRIGHT, JASON WHITLOCK AND CALLS OUT ERIK SPOELSTRA FOR LAMELO BALL

🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿 pic.twitter.com/gR53UqIzqX

— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) April 16, 2026

Spoelstra told reporters after Tuesday's game that he believed Ball should have been ejected. 

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play," Spoelstra said. "He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He should have been thrown out of the game for that."

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play…I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys.“

— Erik Spoelstra on LaMelo’s play on Bam.

(h/t @ohnohedidnt24)

pic.twitter.com/MIvuaVuS3g

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 15, 2026

LaVar saw the play differently, making the case Wednesday that his son was just reacting to "getting stepped on."

"If somebody falling on top of me, you best believe I'm gonna put my hands up and do all kinds of stuff," LaVar said. "That's just how the Balls are taught. We do some dangerous stuff. Get out the way. Cause we ain't getting stepped on."

That might be how Balls are taught, but the NBA doesn't approve. While the league declined to suspend Ball, a $35,000 fine issued Wednesday indicated the NBA believes his actions were enough to warrant a flagrant foul. Had the call been made during the game, which went to overtime, the result could have turned out much differently. 

MORE: What is the format of the NBA's play-in tournament?

LaMelo Ball trips Bam Adebayo

After hitting the floor when his attempt to finish near the rim was blocked, Ball appeared to take a swipe at Adebayo's ankle. Adebayo went down hard as a result and went to the locker room with a back injury. He did not return, and the Heat suffered a 127-126 overtime loss.

Is this a dirty play by LaMelo? pic.twitter.com/tPebBPDLDC

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 15, 2026

After the game, Ball regretted the incident. 

"I apologize on that one," he told reporters. "I got hit in the head, didn't really know where I was, but I'm gonna check on him."

Nick Nurse knows the Philadelphia 76ers vs Boston Celtics series can be an instant classic originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Philadelphia 76ers had a fantastic performance in their Play-In Tournament game against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday. With that victory, they secured the #7 seed, which will pit them against the Boston Celtics in the first round.

This will be yet another series between the two storied franchises. They hold the record for the most meetings in the NBA Playoffs at 22 times. Now, they will be playing for the 23rd time, and 76ers coach Nick Nurse is well aware of the competitive atmosphere between the two teams.

Nick Nurse knows the 76ers vs Celtics series will be a blockbuster matchup

As an experienced head coach with a championship under his belt, Nurse knows what it is like to be in a high-pressure series. Playing against a loaded Celtics side will be one of the most challenging tasks of the season.

Since this is a storied rivalry, Nurse knows that the 76ers have to play out of their minds to win it. The Celtics are clear favorites, but the 76ers have the potential to surprise the NBA world.

MORE: The potential schedules for the 76ers' postseason

Unfortunately for the 76ers organization, they have not beaten the Celtics in a series since 1982. That is a long time, and Nurse wants his team to be the one that surprises the Celtics.

"First of all, it'll be a great atmosphere in both arenas. That's always a blast. When you got two arenas that are electric with energy and Playoff time, you got to really look forward and enjoy that. We'll do our best," Nurse said about the upcoming series against the Celtics.

The 76ers would want to flip the script between the two franchises. The Celtics have had their number for a long time, including this season, as they have three wins to the 76ers' one this year.

It will be a challenging objective for the 76ers, but they have the talent. With Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and VJ Edgecombe leading the charge, they could pull off an upset. Joel Embiid's potential return could also be a game-changer for Philly.

More NBA news:

• LeBron James compares the 76ers to a popular comic book villain
• Why Joel Embiid had to miss the Play-In Tournament game
• Jared McCain is happy to play postseason basketball with his new team
• Tyrese Maxey celebrates the Detroit Pistons' success
• A San Antonio Spurs player gave a backhanded compliment to the Philadelphia 76ers

Jalen Johnson powers Atlanta Hawks into playoff showdown with New York Knicks after breakout season originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

As the Atlanta Hawks  enter the 2026 NBA Playoffs, one storyline has taken center stage: the rise of Jalen Johnson as the team’s driving force. Heading into a first-round clash with the New York Knicks, Atlanta is no longer just a team with potential—it’s a team with a star capable of changing a series.

Johnson’s 2025–26 regular season marked a true breakout. The 24-year-old forward averaged 22.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game while shooting close to 49% from the field. Those numbers place him among the league’s most versatile players, as he consistently flirted with triple-doubles and impacted every facet of the game. Whether scoring inside, facilitating offense, or controlling the glass, Johnson became the centerpiece of Atlanta’s system.

His emergence also fueled the Hawks’ success in the standings. Atlanta finished the regular season with a 46–36 record, securing the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference and avoiding the play-in tournament. Down the stretch, the Hawks found their rhythm, with Johnson orchestrating the offense and elevating the play of those around him. His ability to function as both a primary scorer and playmaker allowed Atlanta to become far less predictable—and far more dangerous.

Johnson ready to show why he deserved all-star selection 

The matchup against New York presents a compelling contrast in styles. The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson, rely heavily on half-court execution and disciplined defense. The Hawks, meanwhile, thrive in transition and offensive creativity, often using Johnson’s versatility to dictate tempo. His ability to grab rebounds and immediately initiate offense could be a key factor in breaking down New York’s defensive structure.

What makes Johnson especially valuable is his completeness. He doesn’t just fill the stat sheet—he connects the entire offense. Teammates benefit from his vision and decision-making, while his scoring keeps defenses honest. That rare blend has quickly elevated him into conversations about the league’s brightest young stars.

As the series begins, Johnson’s performance will likely determine Atlanta’s fate. If he continues his regular-season dominance, the Hawks won’t just challenge the Knicks—they could very well outplay them and extend their postseason journey.

The Orlando Magic lost to the Philadelphia 76ers 109-97 Wednesday night in the No. 7 versus No. 8 seed Play-In Tournament game.

Philadelphia advances to play No. 2 seed Boston in the first round.

Orlando has one more chance to win a game or their season is over. The Magic will host the No. 9 seed Charlotte Hornets Friday night at the Kia Center. Tip-off is set for 7:30 on Amazon Prime.

The winner gets the No. 8 seed and a date with No. 1 Detroit in the first round.

Desmond Bane led all scorers Wednesday with 34 points in a losing effort.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Draymond Green selects Kon Knueppel as the Rookie of the Year for winning contributions originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Before the 2025-26 season started, most people had Cooper Flagg as the favorite to win the Rookie of the Year award. Considering he played for the Dallas Mavericks, winning was never a significant reason behind his campaign for the award.

On the other hand, Kon Knueppel was the fourth overall pick for the Charlotte Hornets, three picks after Flagg. Despite the Hornets not being a top team, Knueppel's arrival helped them reach the cusp of the postseason.

Kon Knueppel's contributions to the Hornets' wins could earn him ROY

As one of the most experienced players in the league, Draymond Green knows what it takes to win awards. He has a Defensive Player of the Year award, which came from anchoring the Golden State Warriors' elite defense.

While Rookie of the Year is a regular season award, it does not take winning into account for the most part. Numbers are often the primary reasoning, but it seems success could be the tipping point for this year's race.

MORE: Kon Knueppel becomes the first rookie to ever lead the NBA in made three-pointers

Flagg had a late-season flurry, where he had games of scoring over 40 and 50 points. It was proof that he can be the more talented Duke product, but it seems that people like Draymond are convinced that Knueppel is the deserving ROY.

"I know everyone says ‘rookie of the year isn’t an award that goes off winning.’ When did winning stop mattering for anything? Basketball is about winning and losing. He has affected winning in a major way. I think that has to count for something," Green said about Rookie of the Year on his podcast.

It will be a fun dynamic to look into because Knueppel and Flagg are both deserving. However, it seems Green and other people believe that being the primary reason behind a team's surprising postseason pursuit.

More NBA news:

• Video of LaMelo Ball tripping up Bam Adebayo in the past resurfaces
• LaMelo Ball apologizes for his grab of Bam Adebayo's leg
• Erik Spoelstra calls out LaMelo Ball for grabbing Bam Adebayo's leg that led to the injury
• Kon Knueppel and LaMelo Ball called the new Splash Brothers
• Carmelo Anthony loves how LaMelo Ball is leading the Charlotte Hornets

Tim Bontemps: Final: Sixers 109, Magic 97 Behind 31 points from Tyrese Maxey, the Philadelphia 76ers advance to the NBA playoffs, where they'll face their forever rivals, the Celtics, in Round 1. Paolo Banchero had 18 points on 7-for-22 shooting, along with 6 turnovers, for Orlando.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Tyrese Maxey leads Sixers to win against Magic, clinch 7th seed

Shams Charania: The NBA is fining Charlotte's LaMelo Ball $35,000 for his trip of Miami's Bam Adebayo and upgrading the action to a Flagrant, plus fining him $25,000 for cursing postgame, sources tell ESPN. $60K in fines, Flagrant. No suspension.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: LaMelo Ball fined for tripping Bam Adebayo and cursing postgame, avoids suspension

NBA Communications: Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has been fined $35,000 and assessed a Flagrant Foul 2 upon league office review for making unnecessary and reckless contact with Miami Heat center-forward Bam Adebayo that created a significant injury risk, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. The incident occurred with 11:13 remaining in the second quarter of the Hornets' 127-126 overtime win over the Heat on April 14 in the SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament. Ball has been fined an additional $25,000 for using profane language during a live postgame television interview.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has been fined …

Nick DePaula: Stephen Curry laces up the “snakeskin” Kobe 4s again tonight in LA. : @SooWavy11 / http://instagram.com/visualsbyave

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Stephen Curry laces up the “snakeskin” Kobe 4s again tonight in LA.

📷: @SooWavy11 / https://t.co/elVzIF8xAbpic.twitter.com/ntLbRlZLdk

— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Stephen Curry laces up the “snakeskin” Kobe 4s again …

Nick DePaula: Franz Wagner is debuting his own Magic-themed PE of the Adidas Dame X tonight

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Franz Wagner is debuting his own Magic-themed PE of the Adidas Dame X tonight pic.twitter.com/EFnuDMTBKT

— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Franz Wagner is debuting his own Magic-themed PE of …

The Los Angeles Lakers' first-round playoff series against Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets will begin this Saturday, April 18, at 5:30 p.m. at Crypto.com Arena. It figures to be a tough matchup for the short-handed Lakers, who are without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, but one they could perhaps win if they get enough production out of their remaining players.

The dates for each game in this series have now been set, and one thing to note is the three days of rest before Game 2, Game 3 and Game 5. That will help a team like Los Angeles that will have to increase the workload of several players, since that obviously translates into more rest.

Lakers-Rockets full first round schedule pic.twitter.com/1fcZ71Yjw5

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 15, 2026

Coach JJ Redick also said that the space between games will help LeBron James.

“He’s 41,” Redick told reporters. “So, yeah. Any extra time off is good.”

James may not necessarily need to have monster scoring games in this series. But he will need his teammates to play up to their potential, especially offensively, and a couple of guys who don't normally play much, including his son, Bronny, will likely need to produce something tangible in this series.

With Game 6 and Game 7 (if necessary) taking place once the calendar turns to May, one has to wonder if there is any chance Doncic and/or Reaves could return by that time. The general recovery timeframe for Doncic's hamstring strain and Reaves' oblique strain has been estimated at four to six weeks. Both suffered their injuries on April 2 versus the Oklahoma City Thunder.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Dates for every game in Lakers versus Rockets series are set

NBA Playoffs bracket 2026: Updated schedule, TV channels, scores for every round of postseason games originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The NBA Playoffs are officially here. After 82 games of grinding through the regular season, the marathon has finally turned into a sprint, as the 2025-26 postseason field is set to narrow through the high-stakes crucible of the Play-In Tournament.

In the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Pistons have completed a historic resurgence to claim the top seed, while the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Cleveland Cavaliers have secured their spots and are resting up for a deep run. In the West, the defending NBA champions Oklahoma City Thunder have locked up the No. 1 seed, with the San Antonio Spurs right behind them.

With the first round officially tipping off on Saturday, April 18, the margin for error has vanished, and the quest for the Larry O'Brien Trophy is finally underway.

Here's everything you need to know for the 2026 NBA playoffs, from schedule to streaming information.

NBA playoffs bracket 2026

The bracket will be updated as teams are locked into seeds. See the full game schedule below.

Eastern Conference

• (1) Pistons vs. (8) Play-In TBD
• (2) Celtics vs. (7) Sixers
• (3) Knicks vs. (6) Hawks
• (4) Cavaliers vs. (5) Raptors

Western Conference

• (1) Thunder vs. (8) Play-In TBD
• (2) Spurs vs. (7) Trail Blazers
• (3) Nuggets vs. (6) Timberwolves
• (4) Lakers vs. (5) Rockets

Where to watch NBA Playoffs 2026: TV channels, live streams

• TV channels: ABC | ESPN | NBC
• Live streams: DIRECTV | ESPN app | Peacock | Prime Video

NBA Playoff action is spread across ABC, ESPN, NBC and Prime Video, though the NBA Finals remain the exclusive domain of ABC. Fans have a wide range of streaming options to catch the postseason, including Prime, the ESPN app, and Peacock, with each service carrying specific games depending on their broadcast rights.

All games airing on ABC, ESPN and NBC are also available via DIRECTV Stream. 

Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.

Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.

NBA Playoffs 2026: Updated schedule for every round of postseason games

This section will be filled in when series schedules are announced.

Play-In Tournament

Eastern Conference first round

(1) Pistons vs. (8) TBD

* if necessary

(2) Celtics vs. (7) Sixers

* if necessary

(3) Knicks vs. (6) Hawks

* if necessary

(4) Cavaliers vs. (5) Raptors

* if necessary

Western Conference first round

(1) Thunder vs. (8) TBD

* if necessary

(2) Spurs vs. (7) Trail Blazers

* if necessary

(3) Nuggets vs. (6) Timberwolves

* if necessary

(4) Lakers vs. (5) Rockets

* if necessary

NBA Playoffs round-by-round schedule 2026

• Play-In Tournament: April 14-17
• First round: April 18
• Conference semifinals: May 4-5 (possible move up to May 2-3)
• Conference finals: May 19-20 (possible move up to May 17-18)
• NBA Finals: June 3-June 19 

Related Links

• Latest NBA news and rumors
• Full 2025-26 NBA schedule and scores
• How to bet on the NBA
• The GOAT Debate: Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James

NBA Playoffs schedule 2026: Full bracket, dates, times, TV channels, live streams to watch every series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The 2025-26 NBA regular season has reached its conclusion, setting the stage for a postseason defined by high-stakes matchups and a brand-new broadcast landscape.

The journey to the Larry O'Brien Trophy officially begins with the Play-In Tournament on April 14, followed by the start of the first round on April 18. With dominant forces like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Detroit Pistons having secured the top seeds, the focus is on what other teams can compete for the NBA championship.

This year marks a significant shift in how fans will consume the playoffs, as a landmark media rights deal introduces a three-pronged distribution model featuring ESPN/ABC, NBC/Peacock, and Prime Video. While the NBA Finals remain the exclusive property of ABC, earlier rounds will be split across these platforms, including the entirety of the Play-In Tournament moving to Prime Video.

Whether you are a cord-cutter relying on Peacock and Amazon or a traditional viewer tuned into ESPN and NBC, navigating the 2026 bracket requires a clear roadmap of where and when to find each game. From the opening tip of the play-in games to the final buzzer of the NBA Finals on June 19, every series offers a different path to glory.

Below is the comprehensive guide to the 2026 NBA Playoff schedule, including a full look at the current bracket, confirmed tip-off times, and a breakdown of which streaming services and cable channels you'll need to catch every minute of the action.

Where to watch NBA Playoffs 2026: TV channels, live streams

• TV channels: ABC | ESPN | NBC
• Live streams: DIRECTV | ESPN app | Peacock | Prime Video

NBA Playoff action is spread across ABC, ESPN, NBC and Prime Video, though the NBA Finals remain on ABC. Fans have a wide range of streaming options to catch the postseason, including Prime, the ESPN app, and Peacock, with each service carrying specific games depending on their broadcast rights.

All games airing on ABC, ESPN and NBC are also available via DIRECTV Stream. 

Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.

Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.

NBA Playoffs schedule 2026

This section will be filled in when series schedules are announced.

Play-In Tournament

Eastern Conference first round

(1) Pistons vs. (8) TBD

* if necessary

(2) Celtics vs. (7) Sixers

* if necessary

(3) Knicks vs. (6) Hawks

* if necessary

(4) Cavaliers vs. (5) Raptors

* if necessary

Western Conference first round

(1) Thunder vs. (8) TBD

* if necessary

(2) Spurs vs. (7) Trail Blazers

* if necessary

(3) Nuggets vs. (6) Timberwolves

* if necessary

(4) Lakers vs. (5) Rockets

* if necessary

NBA playoffs bracket 2026

The bracket will be updated as teams are locked into seeds.

Eastern Conference

• (1) Pistons vs. (8) Play-In TBD
• (2) Celtics vs. (7) Sixers
• (3) Knicks vs. (6) Hawks
• (4) Cavaliers vs. (5) Raptors

Western Conference

• (1) Thunder vs. (8) Play-In TBD
• (2) Spurs vs. (7) Trail Blazers
• (3) Nuggets vs. (6) Timberwolves
• (4) Lakers vs. (5) Rockets

NBA Playoffs round-by-round schedule 2026

• Play-In Tournament: April 14-17
• First round: April 18
• Conference semifinals: May 4-5 (possible move up to May 2-3)
• Conference finals: May 19-20 (possible move up to May 17-18)
• NBA Finals: June 3-June 19 

Related Links

• Latest NBA news and rumors
• Full 2025-26 NBA schedule and scores
• How to bet on the NBA
• The GOAT Debate: Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James

PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia 76ers began their postseason run on Wednesday night as they played host to the Orlando Magic in the 7 vs. 8 matchup in the play-in tournament. The winner advanced to the playoffs as the No. 7 seed while the loser prepared for a win-or-go-home situation in a second play-in game.

The Sixers entered this one with Joel Embiid sidelined, but they were able to lean on Tyrese Maxey and their veterans to step up and get the job done in this situation. Philadelphia walked away with a 109-97 win over the Magic to advance to the playoffs as the No. 7 seed and set up a date with the Boston Celtics in Round 1 starting on Sunday.

Maxey had 31 points and six assists for Philadelphia, Kelly Oubre Jr. had 19 points, and Paul George added 16, five rebounds, and five assists. VJ Edgecombe had 19 points and 11 rebounds while Andre Drummond chipped in with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks.

Here are the player grades following the win:

Tyrese Maxey: A

The star guard put his head down and attacked this Magic defense early and often. There were some struggles in the early going as he had to battle through Orlando’s physicality, but once he found a rhythm, he was able to get the scoreboard moving for Philadelphia. His 3-point shooting in this one was a big help as he was able to get himself going and cause problems for the Magic all night. He was living in the paint, spreading out to shooters, and was tough on the defensive end as well. He made some big plays in the fourth to help Philadelphia seal it. This was a big Maxey game on a night they needed it.

VJ Edgecombe: A-minus

Playing in his first postseason game, Edgecombe made an impact in a number of ways. He was able to get to the basket and finish, was tough and physical on the defensive end, and was helpful on the glass. There were some miscues as Orlando’s guards bothered him at times, but Edgecombe played tough as he was able to make an impact. He and Magic guard Jalen Suggs got into it in the third after Edgecombe finished on the break, but the rookie did not back down and continued to attack. For his postseason game in this environment, he was terrific.

Paul George: B-plus

After a slow start, George found a spark in the second quarter. He was able to get into the mid-range and give the Sixers a bucket there as well as knock down a tough 3-pointer over a good Magic contest. He was judicious with his shot and did a great job of finding his teammates. It wasn’t a big night in terms of his scoring, but the 9-time All-Star contributed in a number of ways between his playmaking, defensive ability, and leadership out on the floor.

Kelly Oubre Jr.: A-minus

The Sixers needed a big Oubre night and he gave those big moments. He knocked down three big 3s in the early going to allow Philadelphia to get off to a hot start and he was battling on the defensive end against Banchero and the variety of other Magic players he had to defend. He had success getting into the paint and finishing as well as he used his herky-jerky style to finish over Orlando’s length.

Adem Bona: C

This was a tough matchup for Bona. The Magic employ a frontline that features some physical players who have a lot of size and length and it seemed to bother him. To his credit, he had three fantastic blocks in the third quarter, including one when Magic big man Wendell Carter Jr. tried to take him off the dribble. The fouling in the fourth was a problem, however.

Andre Drummond: A

The Sixers turned to Drummond early and he made an immediate impact. He was able to attack the glass, finish with his offensive rebounding, made plays with his passing, and protected the basket. He was terrific in every sense of the word in his initial stint. His size was a real strength for Philadelphia in this one as he gave the Sixers a little bit of everything off the bench, including some 3-point shooting.

Dominick Barlow: B-minus

Playing in his first postseason game as well, Barlow had an early dunk when he cut baseline and converted on an opportunity. He moved his feet well defensively as he was able to make an impact on that end. He bothered the Magic every time they tried to get into the paint and he was able to help on the glass. Barlow did get into foul trouble, but he was able to give the Sixers some production.

Quentin Grimes: C-plus

Grimes took some wild shots in this one, but when he put his head down and attacked the basket, he was able to give the Sixers a big lift. He had some terrific finishes inside and battled through contact in an effort to give Philadelphia some offense.

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Player grades: Tyrese Maxey, Sixers beat Magic to advance to playoffs

“The whole season for him has been about finding consistency,” coach JJ Redick said. “When he’s at his best, we’re an elite basketball team. That’s just the reality. He raises our ceiling so much — and it’s on both sides of the ball. It’s not him being able to score 24 points, although when he scores and shoots, we typically win. ... He’s just a really good basketball player and we’re very happy with where he’s at.”

Los Angeles Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: JJ Redick on Deandre Ayton: 'When he's at his best, we're an elite basketball team'

“I love playing this game and I take great passion of playing on both ends of the floor,,” Ayton said after practice Wednesday. “I still believe just being a two-way player in this league, that’s truly my second nature, and that’s how I want to be noted as in this league. It’s just being an all-around, two-way superstar. Just taking passion on both ends of the floor. “I can play hard on offense. I can play hard on defense. So, that’s just really my goal — running the floor always and closing out possessions with rebounds and protecting the rim. So, just trying to enhance everything I can coming into the playoffs.”

Los Angeles Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “I love playing this game and I take great passion of …

NBA Courtside: Victor Wembanyama on playing the Trail Blazers: “Very intense. Not an easy team to play. They’re in the playoffs this year but they’ve been a tanking team in past years and now a playoff team trying to contend. No matter through the years they’re still hard to play. They have an identity. They’re strong”

x.com

Victor Wembanyama on playing the Trail Blazers:

“Very intense. Not an easy team to play. They’re in the playoffs this year but they’ve been a tanking team in past years and now a playoff team trying to contend. No matter through the years they’re still hard to play. They have an… pic.twitter.com/GVdNWSRL1f

— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) April 15, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “Very intense. Not an easy team to play. They’re in …

Jake Shapiro: DA says the hope is both Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones will play Game 1 but neither is cleared yet. Both are participating in non contact practice.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: DA says the hope is both Peyton Watson and Spencer …

PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia 76ers will begin their postseason run on Wednesday when they play host to the Orlando Magic in the 7 vs. 8 matchup in the play-in tournament. The winner earns the No. 7 seed and advances to the playoffs to take on the Boston Celtics while the loser has to prepare for a win-or-go-home game with the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.

The Sixers will, of course, be without Joel Embiid as he continues to recover from his appendectomy against a physical Magic team. Without the big fella, the Sixers will turn to Adem Bona in the starting lineup to join Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Paul George, and Kelly Oubre Jr.

Bona will look to do his best to fill in for Embiid at this stage and continue to provide some production on either end of the floor to help the Sixers succeed.

Starters:

Tyrese Maxey
VJ Edgecombe
Kelly Oubre Jr.
Paul George
Adem Bona #Sixers

— Ky Carlin (@Ky_Carlin) April 15, 2026

The Sixers and the Magic will tip off at 7:30 p.m. EDT from the Xfinity Mobile Arena.

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: Sixers announce starting lineup vs. Magic for pivotal play-in matchup

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball is facing intense scrutiny from NBA fans after his trip on Bam Adebayo caused the Miami Heat center to miss the rest of Tuesday night's play-in game due to injury.

It's unclear whether or not Ball will be suspended for the play, but the NBA is set to review the second quarter incident before the Hornets next play-in game on Friday night. Ball did apologize for the trip, saying he got hit in the head and didn't know where he was, but many in the NBA are hoping for more supplemental discipline after such a substantial moment.

One of those folks putting Ball under intense scrutiny is FS1's Nick Wright, who went off on a rant about the Hornets guard during Wednesday afternoon's show. In one moment, Wright called Ball "a clown" for his past history of dirty plays. Here's how the moment happened on FS1's broadcast.

“General disregard for the safety of others around him in all walks of life is not what a $200M face of the franchise guy [does]…It’s not that he’s a kid. He’s been in the league the whole decade.”@getnickwright weighs in on the play involving LaMelo Ball and Bam Adebayo: pic.twitter.com/X6BSCXBz8m

— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) April 15, 2026

Harsh words indeed.

After the segment went viral on social media on Wednesday, LaMelo's brother Lonzo Ball — who last played for the Cleveland Cavaliers earlier this season — called out on Wright on Twitter, subtly insinuating that the FS1 analyst was a "clown" himself with a pointed emoji.

Nick Wright a bum! 🤡

— Lonzo Ball (@ZO2_) April 15, 2026

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Lonzo Ball called out Nick Wright for calling brother LaMelo a ‘clown’

The Golden State Warriors travel to Los Angeles Wednesday for a highly contested elimination game against the Clippers.

The matchup will provide another iteration of a classic matchup, Steve Kerr vs. Tyronn Lue. It'll also make for another battle between Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard, as the two have faced one another plenty of times when the Warriors squared off against the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors.

Ahead of the game, Los Angeles' head coach spoke about facing Curry once again after three battles against Golden State in the NBA Finals.

"I'm sick of it," said Lue when asked about facing Curry again. "He’s just a guy that can explode. He can score 50 if you’re not careful. He only had 24 last game, but he had nine 3-point attempts. We can’t let him get that many attempts up from the 3-point line. We gotta try to keep him down as much as possible."

Whichever team limits the other's star most effectively may find themselves as the winner.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Clippers coach Tyronn Lue admits he's 'sick' of facing Stephen Curry

The Golden State Warriors look to keep their playoff hopes alive, battling the Los Angeles Clippers away from home Wednesday.

That said, the Warriors are underdogs due to their 1-3 record against Los Angeles this season.

If Golden State is to pull off the upset, here are three keys to their success.

3. Winning the three-point battle

Although the Golden State Warriors convert on 15.7 three-pointers per game, they rank 20th in the NBA in three-point percentage. On the other hand, the Clippers are much more efficient despite making fewer. Six of Los Angeles' current rotation players shoot over 37% from deep on the season, including Kawhi Leonard, Kris Dunn, Kobe Saunders, Nic Batum, Darius Garland and John Collins.

2. Rebounding

Keeping Los Angeles off of the glass will be a key factor in Wednesday night's game. Coming into the matchup, the Clippers rank 29th in the NBA in rebounding, ahead of only the Brooklyn Nets. After trading away Ivica Zubac, Leonard is the team's leading rebounder, averaging 6.4 per contest. For these reasons, Golden State needs to dominate the glass to keep extra possessions out of the hands of the Clippers.

1. Limit Kawhi

It's no secret that Kawhi Leonard has put Los Angeles on his back this season, especially after the trades of Zubac and former MVP James Harden. If Golden State is to prevail, they'll have to contain the 14-year pro who's averaging a career-high (27.9 points) in his age-34 season. After Leonard, the scoring drop-off is significant. Garland is the team's second-highest scorer, averaging 19.9 points in just 17 games with the team since being traded.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: 3 keys for Warriors in Play-In Tournament vs. Clippers

With the NBA's play-in tournament ahead of them, the Philadelphia 76ers still have to, you know, play their way into the 2026 playoffs. Unfortunately for Tyrese Maxey and friends, doing so is likely to be the only path to seeing Joel Embiid return to their lineup this season. Even then, it's unclear if Embiid will actually come back to play, at least depending on the timing of a possible Philadelphia first-round series with either the Detroit Pistons or Boston Celtics.

You see, Embiid underwent an emergency appendectomy last week. Given that the usual recovery timeline for the procedure is around a couple of weeks or so, Embiid has already been ruled out for the play-in. No matter how the 76ers fare, no matter how badly they might need him to advance in the first place, we will not see Embiid play again in 2026 unless Philadelphia gets to the playoffs.

Uh, no pressure, fellas!

Shams: Joel Embiid (appendectomy recovery) expected to be out for Play-In Tournament.

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) April 13, 2026

The real shame of this Embiid appendectomy situation is just how much of a rhythm he was getting into before he got sidelined. The former 2023 league MVP had scored at least 26 points in four of his last five appearances. Now, he'll have to wait and see if his teammates can buy him some time before he's ready to return to the court.

It's not ideal, but Embiid getting a chance to come back is likely the only way that he and the 76ers can make any noise in the playoffs this spring.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Joel Embiid injury: Latest on when 76ers star will come back

When the Lakers begin their opening-round playoff series against the Rockets Saturday, they will be without Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, both working their way back from injury.

Consequently, DraftKings Sportsbook has the Rockets priced as -600 favorites heading into the first round of the postseason. LeBron James and the Lakers are 90:1 to win the Western Conference and 150:1 to win the NBA Finals as of this writing.

Are the Lakers completely without hope, though? Using FTN’s Stats & Charting, let’s take a look at their roster to see if there is any reason to think they could make some noise during these playoffs.

Can LeBron James turn back the clock?

During the regular season, LeBron James averaged 29.1 points, 7.1 rebounds and 10.4 assists per 36 minutes with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves off of the floor. In the past month, James has a +2.6% Field Goal Percentage Over Expectation and has scored +0.7 Points Over Expectation, indicating that he’s still been performing at a high level.

Following the All-Star break, the Lakers were 8.4 points better per 100 possessions with James on the court, compared to when he was on the bench – offering further evidence that he’s still capable of turning back the clock.

What does the supporting cast look like?

In five games following the injury to Luka, the Lakers relied on Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton and Luke Kennard for more contributions on the offensive end of the floor.

The good news for Los Angeles is that those players performed well in an expanded role. Hachimura, who averaged 11.5 points this season, scored 16.6 points per game down the stretch. Notably, he was 7-for-10 from the field against the Thunder and shot 50% from the field against the Suns – two playoff teams. Ayton and Kennard saw similar increases in scoring while maintaining strong efficiency.

During the team’s final 3 regular season contests, Hachimura, James, and Ayton each posted an +8.0% FGOE or better.

Does Houston have a problem?

Houston was 25-15 SU and ranked fourth in the NBA in net rating during their first 40 games this season, but lost Steven Adams to injury Jan. 18. From that point, the Rockets were 27-15 SU, but they ranked only 11th in net rating.

Houston led the NBA in rebound% (55.7%) prior to Adams’ injury, but regressed slightly in that area during the second half of the campaign. They also had the seventh-worst turnover rate in basketball during that span, which diminished the potency of their offense.

The Lakers defensive rating was 1.3 points better with Doncic off of the floor following the All-Star break. It’s not impossible to think that Los Angeles could make life difficult for Houston’s offense in the opening round.

The Takeaway

The Lakers went 10-8 SU in games with Luka Dončić unavailable and 17-14 SU in games with Austin Reaves inactive during the regular season. LeBron James had his workload monitored diligently this year, hoping to keep him fresh for the most important games of the season. The level of difficulty goes up in the playoffs, but his recent production in our Stats & Charting metrics indicate that he has plenty left in the tank. If his supporting cast can continue to knock down some open shots against Houston, there is at least a little bit of hope for Lakers fans – more than the current betting odds suggest.

Why Shams Charania breaks WNBA free agency news, like A'ja Wilson, despite being ESPN's NBA insider originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Shams Charania is ESPN's NBA insider.

Except when there's big WNBA news, it's often Shams breaking it on his social media accounts -- namely X (formerly Twitter).

To basketball fans, it's one of those things that might not make a lot of sense.

MORE: Valkyries' explanation of Flau'Jae Johnson trade is really confusing

Why does Shams Charania break WNBA news?

This all comes down to relationships.

Look at how Charania shared the news of A'ja Wilson's signing with the Las Vegas Aces on Wednesday:

A'ja Wilson, the WNBA's first ever four-time MVP, is signing a three-year, $5 million supermax contract to return to the Las Vegas Aces, sources tell me and @Andraya_Carter. The deal, which is the largest in WNBA history to date and fully guaranteed, was negotiated by Jade-Li… pic.twitter.com/xSJhkHOvId

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 15, 2026

He includes the agent's name, and the agency, at the end of the post. That's a little "thank you" from Charania to the source that gave him the information.

It's by no means a reporting necessity, and some old-school reporters definitely wouldn't appreciate that. But it's how these insiders have gotten to the point.

And then you consider Charania's following -- he has 3.6 million followers on X. An agency certainly doesn't mind its client's exciting news getting shared to that many people all at once -- many having Charania's X posts send notifications to their phones as soon as he shares them.

It can overshadow the quality work done by WNBA reporters, but it's just the way this oft-odd insider game is played.

MORE: Caitlin Clark made Raven Johnson want to quit basketball, and now they're teammates

A'ja Wilson contract details: Four-time MVP signs largest contract in league history to return to Aces originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The passing of the WNBA's latest collective-bargaining agreement took salaries to new heights, setting the stage for a windfall unlike any other among the league's player population.

No player benefitted more from the the players union's efforts than A'ja Wilson. Like more than 80 percent of the player population, the Aces standout and four-time WNBA MVP hit the open market ahead of the 2026 offseason. If and when players agreed terms to a new CBA, Wilson -- the mightiest of the league's myriad talents -- was slated to receive more than other player.

On April 15, Wilson was formally rewarded for her efforts on the roster. The Las Vegas standout inked a three-year, $5 million deal that sees her net the biggest contract in league history, according to ESPN's Shams Charania and Andraya Carter.

With that, here's what you need to know about Wilson's contract details.

A'ja Wilson contract details

• Years: Three
• Contract value: $5 million

The South Carolina alum is the first player to sign a multiyear supermax deal under the new collective bargaining agreement. She is one of just two players to receive a supermax contract of any kind, joined by Fever standout Kelsey Mitchell.

Wilson’s $5 million contract is $1.25 million more than the next-highest deal (Ezi Magbegor at $3.75 million).

What is a supermax contract?

A supermax contract refers to the largest contract a team can dole out to a player. It is reserved for the sport's elite cadre of talent -- players with at least five years of service in the league who have earned All-WNBA honors, Defensive Player of the Year or MVP.

At present, the supermax contract sits at $1.4 million AAV. Per Charania and Carter, Wilson's salary will swell as the salary cap rises. Her contract will make up 20 percent of the Aces' salary cap across the whole of her contract. According to ESPN's Alexa Philippou, Wilson's contract is the first of its kind in WNBA history.

For Boston Celtics head coach, a summer league game is a preseason game is a regular season game is a playoff game. Or to put it more plainly, for the Celtics coach, you have to win the game that is in front of you if you want to achieve the ultimate goal of winning a title. The expectations and challengers might vary, but the process does not.

And the Rhode Island native broke down why he feels that way after a recent Celtics practice, saying "It's the same in the fundamentals and the execution. What's different is the intensity -- (and) obviously the stakes."

"And so when you have to execute details and be disciplined under higher amounts of duress, it requires another level of physicality and mindset that you have to get to."

"And so we can't be distracted by the things that we can't control is what we're saying," said Mazzulla. "You still have to rebound, you have to run back on defense, you have to defend without fouling, you have to screen, you have to know your personnel, you have to be able to execute, you've got to be able to read two-on-ones, all that stuff is no different than a pickup game."

"What changes is the physicality that you have to do it, but also the intensity. And so that's the piece that we have to be ready to bring."

Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on:

Blue Wire: https://tiny.ee/CdKp

iTunes: https://tiny.ee/RK47

YouTube: https://tiny.ee/cOW3

This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Playoffs or preseason, approach the same for Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla

Cavaliers superstar James Harden predicted to opt-out of current deal, receive $65 million contract update originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cleveland Cavaliers finished off another good season, with a record of 52-30 and fourth in the Eastern Conference. Getting superstar James Harden at the trade deadline was also a key factor in their success.

However, Harden has the ability to leave after this season if he wants to. Luckily, Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus predicts that he won’t, and will reject his option and will re-sign a longer contract with Cleveland.

MORE: Lakers predicted to upgrade from Deandre Ayton, sign $200 million All-Star center if current team doesn't extend him after breakout season

“The Cavaliers recently traded for Harden from the LA Clippers, knowing the former NBA MVP has the option to explore unrestricted free agency in July. Harden also had to approve the deal, which meant he lost his full rights (traded after re-signing for one year with the Clippers). Putting that all together, Harden and the Cavaliers presumably have an understanding that may include the veteran guard opting out to re-sign on a two-year deal starting at around $32.5 million (give or take $2.5 million).,” Pincus wrote.

Harden finished this season averaging 23.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and eight assists in 34.8 minutes per game. He became a vital part of the Cavs’ offense, becoming the playmaking maestro they’ve needed for a while. 

MORE: Proposed blockbuster Knicks trade sees New York pair Jalen Brunson with $175 million two-time MVP, lose Karl Anthony-Towns in the process

Pincus is projected Harden will receive a two-year, $65 million deal. Currently, Harden only has a $42 million player option for next season, so this works better for the Cavs as they get Harden for two more years instead of one, and for a lower AAV.

With that lower AAV, it allows them to pursue other stars in free agency, such as LeBron James, who could come home for his possible final season. Hopefully, the Cavs realize this is a move they need to make, and get to work.

Baylor sophomore Cameron Carr is reportedly declaring for the 2026 NBA draft after one season with the Bears, according to Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress.

Carr was named to the All-Big 12 third team, averaging 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 37.4% from 3-point range in 34 games. He finished with 642 points, the fifth-most in a season in program history.

The 6-foot-5 guard played at Tennessee during his freshman year before redshirting last season after suffering a left thumb injury in November 2024. He also earned a selection to the Big 12 All-Newcomer team for his play with the Bears.

NEWS: Baylor's Cam Carr will declare for the NBA Draft, per Drew Gross and Bill Duffy of WME Basketball.

Carr, a projected 1st-round pick, averaged 18.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists, shooting 38% from 3. Plans to stay in draft and will not enter the transfer portal. pic.twitter.com/J4XYOjAI2a

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 14, 2026

Carr is currently projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick after a productive year, in which he set the program scoring record for a sophomore. While his 3-point shooting stood out, Carr flourished as an overall scorer, mixing in shots from all three levels.

The 21-year-old is reportedly planning on staying in the draft and forgoing his remaining college eligibility. He will have the opportunity to further improve his draft stock in team workouts and interviews, as well as at the combine next month in Chicago, Illinois.

Carr is a part of a highly touted draft class with the likes of Darius Acuff Jr., Cameron Boozer, Mikel Brown Jr., AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Caleb Wilson projected to be high selections. The group is considered one of the most talented in recent memory.

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Baylor news: Cameron Carr to declare for 2026 NBA draft, forgo portal

Bucks shouldn't forget about Bogoljub Markovic — a bright spot amid Giannis fears originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The name Bogoljub Markovic may have escaped the minds of most Milwaukee Bucks fans this season.

It's worth remembering it, because he's a bright spot heading into a summer that will be filled with Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors.

Markovic was the No. 47 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Bucks out of Mega Basket in the Adriatic League -- the same club Nikola Jokic played at.

MORE: Nikola Jokic proves once again there's no one like him

At 6-foot-11 and 190 pounds, Markovic has an intriguing skillset, and he'll turn 21 years old this upcoming July.

Markovic ended up staying in Europe for this season, but he'll likely come to the NBA for the 2026-27 season.

And the great news for Milwaukee is that Markovic took a step up this season for Mega Basket.

He raised his scoring average from 13.7 points to 16.6 points per game.

He also lifted his rebounding average from 6.8 to 8.6.

Markovic added 2.1 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks per game.

MORE: This is the most improbable triple-double in NBA history

He has shot 35.2% from 3-point range in his last two seasons in Adriatic League action, as well.

With his length and varied skillset, Markovic could end up being a quality NBA player. He may have to find a way to impact games a bit more defensively, but he's working with a solid base.

The Bucks can at least look forward to bringing Markovic aboard for next season.

More basketball news:

• What Doc Rivers firing means for Giannis trade
• Comparing Cooper Flagg's rookie season to LeBron James
• Mikal Bridges played just 23 seconds for the Knicks, on purpose
• Bronny James joins Warriors' 55th pick in NBA notoriety
• Bruce Brown played 82 games but didn't qualify for NBA's 65-game rule

LaMelo Ball was the hero and the villain for the Charlotte Hornets in their play-in win over the Miami Heat on Tuesday night.

On the one hand, the star guard made the game-winning overtime basket to send Charlotte to the East's No. 8 seed game this Friday. On the other hand, replays showed Ball pretty clearly tripping Heat center Bam Adebayo in an early loose-ball sequence. Adebayo, who is widely considered the Heat's best player, was both injured on the play and did not return to the game as Miami's season came to an end.

Naturally, with the Hornets' season still alive, there was no reality where Ball wouldn't face questions for his role in the Adebayo incident. In his postgame press conference, Ball first apologized before claiming that he got hit in the head, so he wasn't totally aware of his place on the court in relation to Adebayo, and that he would go check on him. To put it lightly, that is not how Heat coach Erik Spoelstra viewed the situation.

So, uh, sure, man. Sure. Whatever you say:

"I apologize on that one. I got hit in the head, didn't really know where I was, but I'mma check on him and see if he's okay and everything."

—LaMelo Ball on the play that led to Bam Adebayo leaving the game. pic.twitter.com/79VIG5kuMK

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 15, 2026

Ball's excuse here is so laughable. He is effectively using getting hit in the head to claim that he doesn't really remember what happened to distance himself from any potential culpability. It probably won't work, but this line of attack somewhat makes sense for Ball, considering that the NBA will reportedly review what happened between Ball and Adebayo on the play in the coming days. Still, in a question of whether or not he tripped Adebayo on purpose, Ball's deflective answer is very telling.

That is, if we didn't have the egregious camera angle and replay to see first.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: LaMelo Ball sounded so guilty about tripping Bam Adebayo

Video of LaMelo Ball tripping Bam Adebayo in 2024 suggests he’s no first time offender originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

LaMelo Ball has been here before.

That's what some NBA fans began to realize when they dug deeper into the Charlotte Hornets' star's incident with Miami Heat big guy Bam Adebayo during Tuesday night's play-in game.

Ball brought down Adebayo with what many on the Heat side believed to be a dirty play, and Bam couldn't play the rest of the game.

There might still be discipline coming for Ball, too, but there's more to it than that.

MORE: Nikola Jokic proves once again there's no one like him

A video from 2024 began to circulate on social media, and it doesn't paint Ball in a great light:

Lamelo Ball tries to trip Bam and didnt get a tech... pic.twitter.com/KhINy1A8Im

— Heat Clips 🎬 (@MiamiClip) January 15, 2024

MORE: This is the most improbable triple-double in NBA history

Ball appeared to have both an instinctive reaction with his feet to grab Adebayo, and then once he sat up, he also tried to grab Bam with his hand.

Neither are particularly flattering moments.

Ball wouldn't be the first player with at least a bit of a tripping instinct. Grayson Allen became infamous for that during his Duke career.

It's not something the Hornets or Ball will want to continue, though. They want him on the court, not suspended, and they want him respected, not hated.

He evidently doesn't always keep his cool around Adebayo, though. Tuesday night's antics weren't the first time.

More basketball news:

• What Doc Rivers firing means for Giannis trade
• Comparing Cooper Flagg's rookie season to LeBron James
• Mikal Bridges played just 23 seconds for the Knicks, on purpose
• Bronny James joins Warriors' 55th pick in NBA notoriety
• Bruce Brown played 82 games but didn't qualify for NBA's 65-game rule

Draymond Green picks Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as MVP over Victor Wembanyama: I said before I think Wemby has to do some things to go take it. I don’t think it can be neck and neck and you get the nod over the guy who’s already won MVP. Maybe next year Wemby can go take it but this year I got SGA”

YouTube

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Draymond Green picks Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as MVP, Kon Knueppel as Rookie of the Year

Draymond Green tabs Kon Knueppel as Rookie of the Year over Cooper Flagg: I know everyone says ‘rookie of the year isn’t an award that goes off winning.’ When did winning stop mattering for anything? Basketball is about winning and losing. He has affected winning in a major way. I think that has to count for something.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: I know everyone says ‘rookie of the year isn’t an …

I decided to run my own poll, asking media members, current and former team executives, and scouts to vote on who they thought was the best current player in the league. They had the choice of remaining anonymous, which many did in their comments below. After 53 votes were tallied, a clear winner emerged. Voters were free to write in any name that they chose. Somewhat surprisingly, only three players received votes. Votes: Nikola Jokic, 35 (66%), Shai Gilgeous-Alexande 10 (18.9%), Victor Wembanyama 8 (15.1%)

Sporting News

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Somewhat surprisingly, only three players received …

Another anonymous voter mentioned that while Jokic's health has limited his impact throughout portions of the season, he's still the league's best talent. "I still lean Jokic. I think people are overreacting a bit to the last two months where Denver hasn’t looked quite right. It’s pretty clear Jokic wasn’t himself coming back from injury. Whether he rushed back to meet 65 games or not, he wasn’t playing to his usual standards." "SGA’s godly efficiency becomes average in the playoffs. Some efficiency drop is normal but if both players are fully healthy, and I can only have one for a playoff run, I still lean Jokic. As great as SGA is, the Thunder win playoff series with their defense. Denver wins playoff series with Jokic."

Sporting News

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I still lean Jokic. I think people are overreacting a …

All three players are putting up absurd stat lines, but Jokic's 28 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists per game still stand out. "Top 10 in scoring and averaging a triple-double at center is absurd," another Jokic media voter explained. "Stats aside, Jokic's ability to make his teammates better and control the tempo of games sets him apart from the field. Not to mention, we've seen him do it repeatedly on the biggest stage in the games that matter most."

Sporting News

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "Top 10 in scoring and averaging a triple-double at …

One SGA media voter noted his "complete control of games offensively, including but not limited to clutch time, plus defense, as or more available than any of the other options, has proven it at the highest level and no off-court issues or anything like that. Just a complete bullet-proof case in my opinion." Others cited SGA's underrated offense and clutch shot-making.

Sporting News

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: One SGA media voter noted his "complete control of …

"He can create an efficient shot in any situation," one anonymous voter told me. "The best team in the league manages on offense mostly due to his elite shot-making. We haven't seen a player this fluid in offense, especially in mid-range, in years. He does all these while being a decent defender which his nearest competition (Jokic) isn't." Another voter put it more simply: "He is the most inevitable."

Sporting News

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "He can create an efficient shot in any situation," …

Dane Moore: Chris Finch, when asked about the Wolves' playoff rotation and potentially removing guys from the normal rotation, cited the example of Steven Adams from the Wolves-Grizzlies series in 2022. "The playoffs are about having your players buy in to the mentality that we need to go wherever we need to go with the roster."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "The playoffs are about having your players buy in to …

Cavs vs. Raptors schedule: Dates, times, TV channels, scores for 2026 NBA Playoffs first-round series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For the first time since 2022, the Raptors are in the postseason. They get quite the matchup in their opening round tilt, jousting with the Cavaliers -- one of the NBA's best sides.

Cleveland didn't quite hit the heights that it did last year. Still, the Kenny Atkinson-helmed side fared well in an improving Eastern Conference, bumping shoulders with the conference's heavyweights with a glistening 52-30 record.

The Cavaliers didn't rest on their laurels, acquiring James Harden at the trade deadline in exchange for Darius Garland. Harden has put forth impressive displays during his time in Cleveland, averaging 20.5 points and 7.7 assists in 26 games for the Cavaliers. While some questioned his fit alongside Donovan Mitchell, the numbers suggest Cleveland is better than ever -- the Cavs went 18-8 during the regular season with Harden.

Harden's postseason woes are well-established. If he can overcome his foibles, Cleveland could find itself in paradise sooner rather than later.

Here's what you need to know to watch Cavaliers vs. Raptors, including broadcast information and start times.

Cavs vs. Raptors schedule

* If necessary

Where to watch Cavs vs. Raptors: TV channel, live stream

• TV channels: ESPN
• Live streams: DIRECTV | ESPN app | Peacock | Prime Video

The Cavaliers vs. Raptors series will air across multiple platforms thanks to the NBA's expanded broadcast deal, which will see games split among the ESPN networks, NBC and Peacock, and Prime Video. 

Games on ABC, ESPN networks and NBC can be streamed live on DIRECTV, which offers a free trial to new users. 

Fans can also turn to the streaming homes for each broadcast partner — Prime Video, Peacock or the ESPN app — for games on those platforms.

NBA Playoffs bracket 2026

Click here for the updated 2026 NBA Playoffs bracket from The Sporting News.

NBA Playoffs schedule, key dates for 2026

Here are the key dates to know for the NBA Playoffs and offseason. 

* Can move up depending on earlier series

Related Links

• Latest NBA news and rumors
• Full 2025-26 NBA schedule and scores
• How to bet on the NBA
• The GOAT Debate: Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James

Sporting News NBA Coach of the Year: Joe Mazzulla gets an award he doesn't want originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

ATLANTA -- Before the Celtics tipped off against the Hawks on March 30, I found myself sitting next to The Athletic's Jay King in Atlanta's press room. I asked King if anyone on Boston's beat had asked Joe Mazzulla his thoughts on potentially winning the NBA's Coach of the Year award. 

"No," King told me, supressing a big smile. "He's not going to like the question. But I am very much looking forward to his answer." 

King is a smarter man than me. I asked Mazzulla despite that warning, and the coach did not mince words. 

"I think it's a stupid award," Mazzulla said. "They shouldn't have it. It's more about the players. It's more about the work that the staff puts in. It's that simple, and I don't ever want to be asked or talk about it again. It’s just that dumb."

Mazzulla may not like platitudes, but I'm giving them to him anyway. Vegas set Boston's preseason line at 41.5 wins after they lost their entire frontcourt rotation, starter Jrue Holiday, and would be without Jayson Tatum for most of the season. Everyone thought that this would be a gap year for them, including myself who had them finishing 11th in the East. Instead, they won 56 games, earned the No. 2 seed in the conference and a popular Finals pick now that Tatum has returned earlier than expected. 

Mazzulla has urged the media to give the credit to the players and his staff rather than himself. They have certainly played a major role, but a lesser head coach would not have gotten these same results. He is a very deserving winner for Sporting News' Coach of the Year and should win the same award from the NBA's panel of media voters.

Joe Mazzulla's schematic genius

The Celtics had a major talent drain this season, yet their offense stayed in the exact same No. 2 position as last year. That is a testament to the system that Mazzulla has put in. The coach has oftentimes been criticized for how many 3's his teams put up. The results don't lie though. The Celtics are still a top five team in the percentage of points they get from 3's, and they are still a dominant offense.

Dumbing down Mazzulla's system to "shoot a lot of 3's" isn't giving it nearly enough credit. He does value efficiency first and foremost, but he is willing to make tweaks in order to fit his personnel. 

"Any time your roster charges, you lose a player of Jayson Tatum’s caliber, you adjust," Quin Snyder told me about his coaching colleague. "In this league, that’s a big part of the job. Trying to find efficiencies." 

Mazzulla has embraced midrange shots more than any other year during his tenure, allowing Jaylen Brown to flourish from that area of the floor. It's led to an All-NBA season and a breakout for him. He's also put his role players in positions to succeed, leaning into strengths like Hugo Gonzalez' hustle, Luka Garza's scoring, and Jordan Walsh's 3-and-D skill set. 

Mazzulla's greatest player development success has come with Neemias Queta, who has gone from a fringe NBA player to one of the better starting centers in the league. Mazzulla has simplified his role, getting him to pound the offensive glass, set killer screens, finish possessions, and play great defense. 

Defensively, Mazzulla is doing some interesting things. The Celtics are a very aggressive help team, eschewing common rules such as never helping off corner shooters. They use a variety of defensive schemes tailored towards each opponent, such as breaking out a ton of zone defense on a random night against the Pistons. They don't force a ton of turnovers, but they emphasize rebounding, helping aggressively, not fouling, and taking away the rim at all costs. That has led to a top five defense. 

Joe Mazzulla's personality is perfect for his team

There are a lot of stories out there about Mazzulla's quirky personality. He's said he's in favor of bringing back fighting into the league. When asked if he could run a marathon, he once responded, "I would just go until I die." He's shown his team film of killer whales to get them motivated to play. 

MORE: The stories of Joe Mazzulla: Why he is perfect for these Celtics

Mazzulla is a master motivator, but he saves it for before games. Practice is for learning habits, and games are for performing. He reflects that philosophy in his unique treatment of timeouts. While other coaches try and cram in as much into the stoppage as possible, Mazzula will draw up a play, spend 10 to 20 seconds explaining it, and walk out of the huddle. He trusts his players and empowers them. 

Mazzulla has always been a natural born leader who never backed down from any challenge. When he played at West Virginia, he coached the team's 1-3-1 zone.

"That was our closing defense the year we went to the Final Four, because he learned it from Coach Beilein when John Beilein was there [in Mazzulla’s freshman year]," Cincinnati coach and former WVU assistant Jerrod Calhoun told Sporting News. "Huggins did a great job of picking Joe’s brain and allowing him to coach.”

MORE: Jerrod Calhoun reflects on his former assistant and best friend Joe Mazzulla

Mazzulla was not intimidated in college. He guarded 6-foot-10 Kentucky big man DeMarcus Cousins because he believed that he could win that matchup despite standing at only 6-2. His players take on that same persona.

Mazzulla also cares about relationships, even if he comes off initially as gruff. Once the cameras were off in Atlanta, he made the unusual move of walking to the back of the press area to speak to me privately. He shook my hand and apologized for coming off so caustically. 

"Sorry, I’m not great at first impressions," he admitted.

Mazzulla's genius has taken a while to sink in to the general collective. It's impossible at this point to argue with four seasons of 50-plus wins and winning 73 percent of your games. He's undeniably a top tier coach. This award should have been his years ago. Now well beyond his first impression, it's time for him to get the praise that he has no interest in.

Local sports broadcasting is in the middle of a shakeup, and Fubo just entered the picture as a serious player.

The Disney-backed streaming platform is making a run at the 13 NBA teams left scrambling after their split from Main Street Sports Group, according to the Sports Business Journal.

MORE: FullLakers vs. Rockets first-round schedule for 2026 NBA Playoffs

The company is exploring a hybrid regional sports network model that could change how local games get delivered to fans. If the plan works, it might reshape the viewing experience as soon as next season.

The platform reached out to a long list of franchises. That group includes the Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, Orlando Magic, and San Antonio Spurs.

If enough teams sign on, Fubo could launch a short-term RSN similar to what Main Street offered. From there, the company wants to become the NBA’s centralized streaming hub, possibly by the 2027-28 season when the league rolls out its aggregated platform.

Until recently, most teams weighed their options between DAZN and Victory+, or considered going with over-the-air local channels paired with direct-to-consumer launches through ViewLift or Kiswe.

MORE: LaMelo Ball apologizes for Bam Adebayo trip that led to injury

Fubo’s arrival shifted that conversation. Multiple teams are now taking the proposal seriously, and momentum is building. Decisions could start coming together as early as Friday.

At the same time, league officials are pushing for answers. They want to know by the end of the week whether Amazon and YouTube TV are ready to move forward on a national streaming RSN for the 2026-27 season.

Fubo’s three-part proposal to NBA teams hinges on major buy-in

Fubo’s proposal is complicated, and there are multiple moving parts. Sources say the plan starts with Fubo trying to get a majority of the 13 teams to bundle their media rights, though the exact number needed remains unclear.

That would let Fubo negotiate direct-to-distributor linear deals with providers like Comcast and Charter Communications. Local over-the-air agreements in each market are also possible, but Fubo is not pushing that route.

MORE: Erik Spoelstra rips LaMelo Ball for tripping Heat star Bam Adebayo

If enough teams don’t participate, sources say the whole thing could fall apart. From there, Fubo would stream games on its own platform and position itself as a candidate for a national RSN role in 2027-28.

Teams would also get an opt-out clause after next season, or later if the NBA launches a national platform. That flexibility comes with a catch though. Teams that leave early would have to repay part of their rights fees.

The league already told teams to include one-year opt-outs in local deals with that broader plan in mind.

Through the 2024-25 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have had a total of 506 players suit up for them, going back to their days in Minneapolis. Some were forgettable, some were serviceable, some were good and a select few were flat-out legendary.

During the Lakers' 80th season of existence (they were founded back in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League), LeBron Wire is taking a look at each player who has worn their jersey, whether it has been a purple and gold one or the ones they donned back in the Midwest during their early years.

Mike Lynn grew up in the greater Los Angeles area and starred at Covina High School before moving on to the University of California, Los Angeles. With the Bruins, he won two NCAA championships before he was a fourth-round pick in the 1968 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls.

The 6-foot-7 forward didn't make his NBA debut until the 1969-70 season, and just prior to the start of that campaign, he was traded to the Lakers. He was with the Lakers for one year and averaged 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds in 9.2 minutes a game that year, and he joined the Buffalo Braves the following season through the expansion draft.

Lynn played a total of two seasons in the NBA and averaged 2.6 points and 1.4 rebounds in 8.7 minutes a game across both seasons.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers jersey history No. 33 — Mike Lynn

The 2026 WNBA season will be here before you know it; how are all the league's teams stacking up against each other ahead of May's kickoff?

Well, now that free agency and the draft have settled, we can get a much better grasp on where each team is exactly in the grand scheme of things.

WNBA Draft 2026 grades: Analysis of every pick in all 3 rounds

We're expecting some risers and fallers from 2025, even if our thoughts on the league's best teams won't come as a huge surprise.

WNBA 2026 free agency winners (Liberty!) and losers (Lynx?!)

Let's run through all 15 teams and stack them up now that the big offseason hurdles have been jumped.

10 best 2026 WNBA free agents still available, including Natasha Cloud

1. Las Vegas Aces

The champs stay at the top. Keeping the band together was always the goal for Vegas as it defends its WNBA title, and the team did that by bringing back all five of its 2025 playoff starters and key bench players like Dana Evans and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus. The team also added veteran depth pieces like Brianna Turner and Stephanie Talbot. As long as the Aces have A'ja Wilson, they can win a lot of games. As long as Wilson is flanked by players like Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young and Jewell Lloyd, Vegas will be a special sort of headache for opposing teams. An injury-ravaged Indiana Fever team taking them five games in the semifinals last fall proves that the Aces are beatable. The fact that Vegas has won three of the last four titles proves that they deserve top status until further notice.

2. New York Liberty

The Liberty kicked its offseason into high gear by adding former Phoenix Mercury standout Satou Sabally to its fearsome trio of Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones. At least on paper, that's a terrifying lineup of stars that can match what Vegas brings to the league in pure star power. However, 2024 title winner Sandy Brondello is no longer the team's coach, and this is an older roster with real injury concerns going forward. If this lineup can stay healthy, New York is going to be favored in most of its 2026 games. The frontcourt will be a monster with Stewart, Jones and Sabally all rotating in and out of the lineup, but the guard room after Ionescu and Marine Johannès doesn't quite jump out on the page. Nevertheless, we know what the Liberty is capable of on its best day. It's all a matter of if losing Brondello will do more harm than hoped and if this team can maintain health this summer. For now, New York is the team we most feel can dethrone Vegas for another championship after winning in 2024.

3. Indiana Fever

The Fever lost six players to injury throughout the 2025 season, including superstar Caitlin Clark, and still made it all the way to the semifinals. Was it a fluke, or is it a sign that Indiana is a juggernaut in waiting if it can just stay healthy? Stephanie White's excellent coaching and the front office's ability to identify impact free agents on the fly deserve so much more credit than they cumulatively got for 2025's surprise push. An MVP-level Kelsey Mitchell and still-improving Aliyah Boston proved they can lead a playoff run, even without Clark on the court. Now that the franchise face is healthy and rested, the Fever should get right back to business. After the resilience this team showed during its 2025 playoff run, you can't count the Fever out to duplicate that success, or even push past it, with a healthier roster with much more time to gel. Monique Billings, Ty Harris and first-round guard Raven Johnson should all add a dimension the team missed last year during its healthy Clark games. Getting Lexie Hull, Sophie Cunningham and Damiris Dantas back maintains veteran continuity, and second-year forward Makayla Timpson could be the team's secret weapon that many aren't expecting to take the leap. Rookie guard/forward Justine Pissott could make the team and add firepower beyond the arc, too. While there aren't any guarantees for this Fever team, perhaps more should made of what the team did without Clark and what it can do with her back in action.

4. Atlanta Dream

The Dream wisely got the band back together and got younger in the post by swapping out Brittney Griner for Angel Reese. Reese is a megastar who will only putt more fans in the seats; she should at least balance out what Griner brought to the team in 2025 with more upside. Atlanta getting eliminated in the first round of last year's playoffs by the zombie Fever showed that the Dream still have work to do to make a real playoff push. However, that postseason experience should only benefit one of the better rosters and coaching staffs in the WNBA. We're expecting Atlanta to pick up where it left off, and we're very curious how Reese will adapt to her new team. With Las Vegas, New York and Indiana, Atlanta completes the big four we're expecting to lead the title chase this summer.

5. Golden State Valkyries

Will the Valkyries suffer any regression after a sensational first season in the W, or will Natalie Nakase's upstart team improve on its 2025 campaign and establish itself as a real playoff threat? Adding Gabby Williams to the roster makes us think it'll be the latter. We just have too much confidence in this coaching staff and roster to predict any sort of drop-off. Getting 2025 first-round guard Justė Jocytė is an intriguing wrinkle that could pay off in a big way if she hits the court running. Ballhalla is perhaps the most fearsome atmosphere in the WNBA right now, and that's not nothing. Golden State should build on its 2025 successes with the infrastructure in place, but you can't rule out a step back, either. If the team arrived much quicker than expected, it's fair to wonder if a sophomore season reflects more of what people expected the Valkyries to be last year. We're not sure, but our gut tells us to still watch out.

6. Minnesota Lynx

The Lynx seem to understand that life will be tougher than hoped until Napheesa Collier is back to full health. We have no clear idea when Collier will be back from her ankle surgeries; what if she's not back by July? Can Minnesota lean on its excellent guard room of Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride and first-round selection Olivia Miles and Cheryl Reeve's steady coaching to get wins while Collier is recovering? Will the team's frontcourt losses make it more vulnerable for a major step back this season until Collier rounds full form? Even when Collier is healthy, losing Alanna Smith, Bridget Carleton and Jessica Shepard all at once is really tough to overcome. Natasha Howard is a smart veteran addition who knows Reeve's system, but will she be enough? We still think the Lynx are good enough as established to push for a playoff spot in the best scenario, but they feel primed for a difficult reality check soon.

7. Phoenix Mercury

Maybe this is a smidge too low for Phoenix, a team that literally just played in the WNBA Finals. However, losing Sabally is a huge blow. The Mercury didn't replace her with a player of equal talent, which could come back to haunt them if Alyssa Thomas has another MVP-level season and Kahleah Copper has a strong year. Nate Tibbetts is one of the best coaches in the game, and he knows how to maximize what he has. Like the Lynx, we see where the pratfalls are for regression just as easily as we see the pathways for avoiding them. Phoenix feels like a team that could swing a big trade midseason to bolster its playoff hopes. Honestly, that might be what's eventually necessary.

8. Los Angeles Sparks

The Sparks have sped up their contention timeline by bringing back franchise legend Nneka Ogwumike and trading for Ariel Atkins. Kelsey Plum will still be one of the league's best pure scorers, Dearica Hamby is back in the fold and Cam Brink will start the year healthy after missing much of 2025. That's a pretty strong starting five, but we're a little curious about Los Angeles' depth. Trading away Rickea Jackson could backfire if she emerges in Chicago, even if Atkins is a better fit for a win-now team. Plum is the focal point, and Ogwumike should still be a force to reckon with in her return to L.A. The Sparks should be positioned to build on its late 2025 momentum, but can this team push further than the first round of the playoffs? At least right now, Los Angeles feels like it has a firmer ceiling.

9. Dallas Wings

No team improved in free agency and the draft quite like the Wings. Paige Bueckers now has her UConn teammate Azzi Fudd and former Minnesota Lynx frontcourt problems in Smith and Shepard. Arike Ogunbowale is back in town, too, even if 2025 wasn't her best year on the court. Could new coach Jordi Fernández follow in Dream coach Karl Smesko's footsteps and be the next women's college coach to take the WNBA by storm with an improved roster? We aren't ready to say the Wings will be pushing for a title, but a playoff berth feels like an incredibly realistic goal. Bueckers' second season in the W alone should get Dallas fans excited; the roster improvements, at least on paper, should keep Dallas from picking high in the 2027 WNBA Draft. Things are looking up down in Texas if you ask us.

10. Chicago Sky

The Sky seemed destined for a full-fledged rebuild after trading Angel Reese, but that's not what Chicago wanted to do. The team went on a spending spree to add vets like Skylar Diggins, Azurá Stevens and DiJonai Carrington and traded for young talents like Rickea Jackson and Jacy Sheldon. The team brought back vets like Courtney Vandersloot, Rachel Banham and Elizabeth Williams, too. Recent high draft picks like Kamilla Cardoso, Hailey Van Lith, Sevgi Uzun and Maddy Westbeld are joined by UCLA standout Gabriela Jaquez. That's a massive talent infusion, but how far will it get Chicago? Usually in pro sports, there's always a team that spends a bunch of money and fails to cash in on its rampant investments. Will that be the Sky? Chicago should be competitive every night, but what is the ceiling here? Do the Sky just max out with an early playoff exit, or can this team do more? We're curious.

11. Washington Mystics

The Mystics are going to be really good one day if all goes according to plan. The team added first-round talents like Lauren Betts, Angela Dugalić and Cotie McMahon to its young core of Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, Georgia Amoore, Shakira Austin and Lucy Olsen this week. The upside is all of those new players, plus Amoore having her super-rookie season after missing all of 2025, is immense. The downside is when all of this, or if all of this, will come together for Washington to ascend past fringe playoff contender. Maybe the dawn is sooner than we expect. If anything, nobody should sleep on the Mystics this year. They should at least be a feisty out every night.

12. Connecticut Sun

The Sun still feel a few pieces and a lot of growth away to getting back into contending shape. Adding Brittney Griner ahead of the big move to Houston is really neat, and the Comets should have a brighter future than the Sun. We like adding young players like Nell Angloma Gianna Kneepkens, and Charlisse Leger-Walker to the team's young core of Aneesah Morrow, Saniya Rivers and Leïla Lacan. Kennedy Burke is also a fun addition for her 3-point shot alone. Connecticut was a stingy out last year, but losing Mabrey gives us a little less hope in its ultimate ceiling.

13. Toronto Tempo

The Tempo should be a bit closer to the Valkyries than other WNBA expansions teams, even if we're not quite sure Toronto will push that hard for a playoff spot right away. Brondello is a heck of a coach to lead the team in its first season, and vets like Brittney Sykes and Marina Mabrey will certainly score a lot of points. Kiki Rice is also a smart bet for the point guard of the future. We think Toronto can make solid gains this year for the future, but we're not exactly sure how far it will get in its first full campaign in the WNBA. Maybe the Tempo will surprise us?

14. Seattle Storm

The Storm will eventually cash in on the overwhelming duo of Dominique Malonga and Awa Fam Thiam. That frontcourt is going to be a pain in the neck for teams one day. However, that day is probably not coming this summer in totality. Malonga, Fam and LSU star Flau'Jae Johnson give Seattle a really neat young score that can develop alongside each other in the years to come. Ezi Magbegor is the team's best player at present, but will she even be on the roster by season's end? We could see her as a popular trade candidate ahead of the deadline.

15. Portland Fire

The Fire are clearly building up for the future. While we're sure that Portland will give some teams fits this season just on the unknowns of how this roster will flow together alone, we think the Fire should have the inside track to the top 2027 WNBA Draft pick at present. If that means JuJu Watkins lands in Portland, it will all be worth it. However, if you're a Fire fan, stick with the eventual growing pains and remember the Valkyries are the outlier for expansion.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: WNBA power rankings: Analyzing the league post-2026 draft, free agency

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There is no indication Steph Curry is about to retire, but each postseason that passes lessens his chances of another dramatic playoff run, the kind every basketball fan should hope for.

The Golden State Warriors know those are the stakes, hence emphasizing veterans, unlike the Los Angeles Clippers, who are trying to thread the needle of reinvention while starring Kawhi Leonard.

These Warriors vs. Clippers predictions and NBA picks default to trusting Golden State’s veterans on Wednesday, April 15.

Our best Warriors vs Clippers SGP for April 15

Steph Curry has been shooting well since he returned from a knee injury, hitting 41.7% of his shots from beyond the arc in four games back in the lineup. And he has been shooting often, taking nine 3-pointers per game.

He has not been setting up his teammates that often, however. That is, to some degree, a negative reflection of this Golden State roster. How often is Curry going to look for Brandin Podziemski and Gui Santos?

He's averaged only 3.5 assists in his return, down from an already pedestrian 4.8 on the season before his knee injury.

Instead, Draymond Green is moving the ball. Of course he is. The last few years of Green’s play have hinged entirely on Curry’s availability. With Steph in the lineup, Draymond has hinted at his past excellence.

He has thus averaged 8.3 assists in the three games he and Curry have overlapped in the last week. Setting up Curry may be the last thing Draymond Green is genuinely good for.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

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The drama in the Western Conference Play-In Tournament should be at a fever pitch with Steve Ballmer’s arena going against Steph Curry. There may be other names involved when the Golden State Warriors face the Los Angeles Clippers, but all eyes will be on Curry.

My Warriors vs. Clippers predictions and these NBA picks trust Curry on Wednesday, April 15.

Warriors vs Clippers prediction

Who will win Warriors vs Clippers?

Warriors:I won’t do it. I will not bet against Steph Curry when his season is on the line. No one expects Golden State to go on some magical run this postseason, but a win or two to spark the NBA’s interest this week? That is reasonable.

More sincerely, the Clippers backed into the postseason in a worrying way. Twice in the last two weeks, they had clear chances to hold onto a spot in the preferred half of the Play-In Tournament, instead losing twice outright to Portland. Win either of those games, both obvious opportunities, and the Clippers’ postseason hopes look much brighter. Dropping the ball then inspires no faith now.

Warriors vs Clippers best bet: Steph Curry Over 4.5 threes (+125)

Do you really want to bet against Steph Curry in a single-elimination moment? Sure, some of you are too young to remember the Davidson run in March of 2008, but everyone saw the 2024 Olympics gold medal game against France, right?

You want to bet against that?

Obviously, sportsbooks have raised this 3-pointer prop because they recognize just how lethal Curry can be, but that now means we get plus-money odds on the Golden State Warriors’ superstar doing what he does best.

Worry not that he has been back for only four games since his knee injury. Curry shot 5-for-10 from deep in his first game back, part of shooting 15-for-36 (41.7%) from beyond the arc in those four games.

And the Los Angeles Clippers are only middling defending against 3-pointers, ranking No. 16 in both opponent 3-pointer frequency and percentage made since James Harden left the rotation. Recognize, No. 16 in the NBA at this point of the season is actually a massive worry.

This may be the end of the Warriors’ relevancy in the Curry era, ending not with a “Bang!” but with a whimper, but rest assured, Curry will go down firing.

Warriors vs Clippers same-game parlay

Curry’s ball movement has been a bit slow since his return. Then again, this roster never really allowed Curry to move the ball much, averaging just 4.8 assists before he missed two months with a knee injury. Dropping to 3.5 assists per game in the last four is not terribly glaring in that context.

Draymond Green has been moving the ball, however. He's played in three of Curry’s four games back, averaging 8.3 assists in those three games. There may be a sample size worry in that thought, but if anyone is going to excel with Curry’s return, it is Green.

Warriors vs Clippers SGP

• Steph Curry Over 4.5 threes
• Steph Curry Under 4.5 assists
• Draymond Green Over 5.5 assists

Our "from downtown" SGP: One last ride!

For one more night, perhaps one last night, two of the three key pieces to this Warriors dynasty can rekindle those memories. No “Wall” will bother Curry or Green.

They have faced Kawhi Leonard countless times before, and with veterans like Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis now their running mates, Golden State as a whole should embrace this road atmosphere.

Warriors vs Clippers SGP

• Steph Curry Over 4.5 threes
• Steph Curry Under 4.5 assists
• Draymond Green Over 5.5 assists
• Warriors moneyline

Warriors vs Clippers odds

• Spread: Warriors +5 | Clippers -5
• Moneyline: Warriors +165 | Clippers -200
• Over/Under: Over 220.5 | Under 220.5

Warriors vs Clippers betting trend to know

All four matchups between these two teams went Under their totals this season and by an average of 17.25 points per game. Find more NBA betting trends for Warriors vs. Clippers.

How to watch Warriors vs Clippers

Warriors vs Clippers latest injuries

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

What channel is Clippers vs. Warriors on today? Time, TV schedule to watch 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Clippers and the Warriors have made the postseason, but are currently only qualified for the play-in tournament.

As the two lowest seeds in the Western Conference, they will have to win two games to make it into the first round of the playoffs. The Clippers and the Warriors will play on Wednesday, April 15, with the winner advancing to a second play-in game on Friday, and the loser being eliminated from contention. 

The Clippers had lost two games in a row before winning the regular-season finale over the Warriors. Kawhi Leonard didn't play in the Clippers' final game of the season with an ankle injury, but is considered day-to-day. 

The Warriors got guard Steph Curry back during the final stretch of the season, but his addition didn't help the team avoid losses. They finished the regular season on a three-game losing streak, and have dropped seven of their last eight games. 

Here's what you need to know about Wednesday's matchup between the Clippers and Warriors, including broadcast information and start time.

What channel is Clippers vs. Warriors on today?

• TV channel: None
• Live stream: Prime Video

Under the NBA’s new media rights agreement, every game of the 2026 Play-In Tournament will be streamed exclusively on Prime Video, marking the first time the entire tournament has shifted to a streaming-only platform.

Clippers vs. Warriors start time

• Date: Wednesday, April 15
• Time: 10 p.m. ET

The 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament game between the Clippers and Warriors is set to tip off at 10 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 15, from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. 

The Clippers and the Warriors played four times during the regular season. The Warriors won the first one 98-79 in late October. The Clippers won the remaining three games: 103-102, 114-101, and 115-110. The most recent matchup was the teams' final regular-season game on Sunday. The Clippers won by five, and Warriors point guard Steph Curry remains on a minutes restriction.

The Clippers are not only looking for their first NBA Championship in franchise history, but are also still trying to make their first appearance in the NBA Finals. They have only been in the conference finals once, in 2021, but they lost the series 4-2 to the Phoenix Suns. 

The Warriors' last championship came in 2022. Since then, they haven't made it past the conference semifinals. 

NBA Play-In Tournament schedule 2026

NBA Playoffs schedule, key dates for 2026

Here are the key dates to know for the NBA Playoffs and offseason. 

* Can move up depending on earlier series

Related Links

• Latest NBA news and rumors
• Full 2025-26 NBA schedule and scores
• How to bet on the NBA
• The GOAT Debate: Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: HoopsHype Daily: Deni Avdija leads Blazers to playoffs, Brandon Miller shines in clutch time

Stephen Curry minutes restrictions, explained: Why Warriors star isn't playing full game during NBA Play-In Tournament originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

SN's NBA HQ: Live NBA scores | Updated NBA standings | Full NBA schedule

Steph Curry minutes restriction

This past Sunday, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr opened up, saying that Curry would be on a minutes restriction for the team's must-win Play-In Tournament game against the Los Angeles Clippers. According to Kerr, the perennial All-Star would be playing less than 40 minutes after recently returning from a lengthy knee injury that sidelined him for more than a quarter of the season.

Curry did manage to play four of the team's final five games of the season, averaging 20.3 points across 26.8 minutes per game. In those games, the Warriors went 1-3.

Along with Curry, both Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford will also play less than 40 minutes. The Warriors will need to make the most of limited minutes from a few of their better players, as Jimmy Butler will also not be playing due to an ACL tear earlier this season.

MORE: What is the schedule for this year's NBA Playoffs?

What happened to Steph Curry?

During a workout before a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Jan. 24, Curry cited pain and swelling in his right knee. However, he decided to power through the pain and continue playing. Less than a week later, Curry was forced out of the lineup on Jan. 30 and would end up missing 27 games this season over the span of just over two months.

This was a surprise to Curry, as originally, he had anticipated only missing around a week, according to ESPN. However, the pain proved to be too much to play through, and the Warriors did not want to take any chances on their franchise's best player.

When asked if this knee injury was something he would need to manage the rest of his playing days, this is what the star said:

"Yes and no. There's nothing structurally wrong with my knee. So it's not like I'm compromised out there. It is a new normal, though, if that makes sense."

MORE: What did Draymond Green say about teams tanking?

Steph Curry injury history

Curry has missed extended time at a few different points throughout his 17-year NBA career. Let's take a look at those injuries and how they impacted the Warriors.

During the 2011-2012 season, Curry missed over 50 games for the first time in his career after extensive ligament damage in his ankle. The star needed to get surgery on it twice in the span of two years. At the beginning of the next season, the Warriors decided to risk giving Curry a four-year, $44 million contract extension. Despite being a high-risk, high-reward situation, Golden State's recent championship history proved this to be the right move, and Curry would go on to win four championships for the franchise.

Curry's worst injury came at the beginning of the 2019-2020 campaign. After breaking his hand that October, the sharpshooter was out for multiple months, essentially ending any shot of Golden State contending for the playoffs that year. They would go on to land the second pick of the 2020 Draft, when they selected James Wiseman.

This season, Curry was sidelined for just over two months with patellofemoral pain syndrome in his right knee, also known as runner's knee. The pain and swelling in Curry's right knee initially popped up on Jan. 24 during a workout prior to a game against the Timberwolves, but he played through it for a few games before leaving the lineup Jan. 30. While Curry expected to only miss "a week, ten days max," according to ESPN, the injury proved to be much more severe than him or the team originally anticipated.

MORE: How often has Steph Curry been hurt during his career?

And then there were three. The Oklahoma City Thunder dwindled their possible Round 1 opponents to just three possibilities. We saw the first batch of play-in tournament games played out on Tuesday. The eighth seed will be determined on Friday.

The Portland Trail Blazers clinched the seventh seed in a 114-110 win over the Phoenix Suns. They will face the San Antonio Spurs. Deni Avdija had a stellar postseason debut with 41 points and 12 assists. His squad survived a 24-4 run in the second half on the road.

Now, the Suns will get one more chance to get a playoff spot. They will host the winner of Wednesday's Golden State Warriors at LA Clippers matchup. Those are the three teams left that the Thunder could face.

Regardless of who advances, the Thunder should be the heavy favorite to win the Round 1 series. Over the last two years, they swept the eighth seeds. The full Round 1 schedule can be viewed here.

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: OKC Thunder to face 1 of these 3 teams in Round 1 of 2026 NBA playoffs

‪Sean Highkin‬: Tiago Splitter: “Tough year, but this group is very resilient. We showed that in the fourth quarter. Making the playoffs is a great accomplishment for this group.”

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Tiago Splitter: 'Tough year, but this group is very resilient'

Awaiting to learn the eighth seed, the Oklahoma City Thunder learned their full schedule for their Round 1 opponent in the 2026 NBA playoffs.

The Thunder will face one of the Phoenix Suns, LA Clippers or Golden State Warriors. The Portland Trail Blazers clinched the seventh seed with their 114-110 win over the Suns in the play-in tournament on Tuesday. Deni Avdija had an unreal 41 points and 12 assists.

On Friday, the Suns will host the winner of Wednesday's Warriors-Clippers play-in tournament game. Whoever wins that will clinch the eighth seed and face the Thunder. The full Round 1 series schedule is below. * means if necessary:

• Game 1: No. 8 seed at Thunder on Sunday, Apr. 19, at 2:30 p.m. CT. It will be broadcast on ABC.
• Game 2: No. 8 seed at Thunder on Wednesday, Apr. 22, at 8:30 p.m. CT. It will be broadcast on ESPN.
• Game 3: Thunder at No. 8 seed on Saturday, Apr. 25, at 2:30 p.m. CT. It will be broadcast on NBC.
• Game 4: Thunder at No. 8 seed on Monday, Apr. 27.
• Game 5: No. 8 seed at Thunder on Wednesday, Apr. 29.*
• Game 6: Thunder at No. 8 seed on Friday, May 1.*
• Game 7: No. 8 seed at Thunder on Sunday, May 3.*

Regardless of who advances, the Thunder should be the heavy favorite to win the Round 1 series. Over the last two years, they swept the eighth seeds.

Here is the Thunder’s Round 1 series schedule: pic.twitter.com/UzVsrPf1bt

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 15, 2026

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: OKC Thunder's 2026 NBA playoffs Round 1 schedule revealed

LIVE: Deni Avdija: 41 PTS | 12 AST | 7 REB Deni Avdija becomes the first player in NBA Play-In Tournament History to record 40+ points and 10+ assists

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Deni Avdija becomes the first player in NBA Play-In …

‪ Bobby Marks: With Portland advancing to the playoffs, Chicago will now have their first-round pick. No. 9 and possibly No. 15

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: With Portland advancing to the playoffs, Chicago will …

Law Murray: As expected they're giving the Kevin Durant-LeBron James face of the game series two days off before Games 2, 3, and 5 only other series with three games of 2+ days off is Cleveland-Toronto, and that's Games 3, 4, 5 with two days off

x.com

As expected they're giving the Kevin Durant-LeBron James face of the game series two days off before Games 2, 3, and 5

only other series with three games of 2+ days off is Cleveland-Toronto, and that's Games 3, 4, 5 with two days off pic.twitter.com/mDo7C5oAG9

— Law Murray 🪺 (@LawMurrayTheNU) April 15, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: As expected they're giving the Kevin Durant-LeBron …

Nike's trademark application for Los Angeles Lakers' guard Bronny James' "B9" logo has been refused because of a "likelihood of confusion" with an already-registered mark, according to United States Patent and Trademark Office documents. The USPTO turned down the application because examining attorney P. Scott Craven deemed the logo too similar to the "B9" logo created by Back9 Golf Apparel, a company out of Austin, Texas. Both "B9" markings were filed for clothing and apparel usages. Nike applied for the "B9" logo, which has a lowercase "b" in gothic lettering with the number "9" in the middle, in February. James has worn logo-adorned shoes multiple times this season. Nike posted images of the shoes featuring the logo on April 12.

ESPN

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Nike's trademark application for Los Angeles Lakers' …

Justin Russo‬: Deni Avdija with 41 points, 12 assists, and 7 rebounds. Scored or assisted on 21 of Portland’s 31 fourth-quarter points.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Deni Avdija has monster game, leads Blazers to the playoffs

Wizards Film Room: 41 points 12 assists 7 boards 74% TS +13 Carried the team against a top-10 defense. If you watched Wizards basketball in 2023-2024, you knew Deni was capable of this if he had the ball in his hands consistently

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Carried the team against a top-10 defense

‪Jorge Sierra‬: Deni Avdija is only the second Israeli player to ever make the NBA playoffs. The first one playing meaningful minutes. Meaningful would be an understatement here.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Deni Avdija is only the second Israeli player to ever …

If the Los Angeles Lakers are going to have a real shot at knocking the Houston Rockets out of the first round of the NBA playoffs, they will need everyone who is going to play to pull their own weight.

Not only do they need to neutralize future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant, but they also need to contain two-time All-Star center Alperen Sengun. That means Lakers centers Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes will need to play especially strong basketball throughout this series.

Hayes missed the Lakers' last four regular-season games with a foot ailment. But he returned to practice on Tuesday and said he was "feeling a lot better," per Daniel Starkand of Lakers Nation.

“Feeling a lot better,” he said. “It was nice getting a few days off, especially with my job I jump a lot and run a lot. So it’s hard for me to rest something like that. So getting those days off was much-needed, very helpful.”

The backup center said that wear and tear caused him to be sidelined.

“It was a bit of accumulation over the years,” Hayes added. “Seven years of jumping around the NBA at seven foot isn’t gonna be the best.”

He also said that he was never worried about his availability for Game 1 of the series against the Rockets, which will take place this Saturday.

The Lakers don't necessarily need points from Hayes, but they will need not just rim protection but especially rebounding from him. Houston is one of the best rebounding teams in the NBA, and it is particularly fearsome on the offensive boards. Everyone will need to box out with physicality when a shot goes up for Houston, and the Lakers will need to limit Houston to one shot per possession as much as possible.

During the regular season, Hayes averaged 7.5 points on 75.6% field-goal shooting, 4.1 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in 18.3 minutes a game.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Jaxson Hayes took part in Lakers' practice on Tuesday

Did LaMelo Ball trip Bam Adebayo? Hornets star not called for foul after controversial play originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

LaMelo Ball came out aggressively with a chance to win two games and reach the playoffs for the first time in his career, but his aggressiveness nearly got him in trouble on Tuesday night.

After a shot attempt near the rim was blocked early in the second quarter, Ball appeared to get tangled up under the basket with Heat star Bam Adebayo. Adebayo got up gingerly after a hard landing and had to go back to the locker room with what Miami described as a back injury.

Ball wasn't called for a foul, but some fans were quick to ask why the play wasn't at least reviewed.

Here's a closer look at the collision between Ball and Adebayo.

NBA PLAYOFFS HQ:Live NBA scores | NBA playoff schedule | NBA playoff bracket

Did LaMelo Ball trip Bam Adebayo?

Ball hit the floor and appeared to take a clear swipe at Adebayo's ankle, knocking the Heat star to the floor with a hard landing. Adebayo was frustrated and had to go back to the locker room, but Ball wasn't called for a foul on the play.

Is this a dirty play by LaMelo? pic.twitter.com/tPebBPDLDC

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 15, 2026

Adebayo complained to the officials after the play, and Ball appeared to have a gripe as well despite not being called for a foul. Whether or not the Hornets advance, a fine could be in play if the NBA deems Ball's actions serious enough for punishment.

Ball apologized to Adebayo after the game. "I apologize on that one," he told reporters. "I got hit in the head, didn't really know where I was, but I'm gonna check on him."

After the game, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said Ball should have been ejected.

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play," Spoelstra said. "He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He should have been thrown out of the game for that"

Erik Spoelstra on LaMelo Ball's dirty play on Bam:

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play. He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He… pic.twitter.com/7pbCWPnUv8

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 15, 2026

The Hornets went on to win 127-126 in overtime, eliminating the Heat. After the game, official crew chief Zach Zarba explained why they couldn't review the play.

"The play wasn't whistled in real time. Play continued with a fast break. And because play wasn’t stopped immediately, and there was no whistle on the play, the window to review the play was closed," he said. "Play was stopped, after a change of possession, and then a time out. So, by rule, our window to review that play then is closed. "

Zarba added that they later reviewed the play at halftime, as they did with all calls from the first half. The league will now decide whether it should've been a flagrant foul.

NBA pool report on LaMelo Ball play on Bam Adebayo:

QUESTION: Why was the play not reviewed in real time?

ZARBA: The play wasn’t whistled in real time. Play continued with a fast break. And because play wasn’t stopped immediately, and there was no whistle on the play, the…

— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) April 15, 2026

Is Bam Adebayo injured?

Adebayo left the game with a back injury and was labeled as questionable to return. He did not return, and the Heat were eliminated in overtime with a one-point loss.

The Heat have found success in the Play-In Tournament and the playoffs as a low seed before, but they came up just short with Adebayo off the floor in Charlotte. The loss ensured a season that saw Adebayo score 83 points in a game ends without a playoff appearance for the Miami big man.

MORE:Latest injury updates on Bam Adebayo

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball came through in the clutch during overtime to extend his team’s season with a win over the Miami Heat, 127-126, in the NBA Play-In Tournament with a game-winning shot.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the only noteworthy moment of the game for Ball.

In the first half, Ball and Heat star Bam Adebayo were tangled up, with video replay showing Ball reached out and tripped Adebayo by grabbing his foot.

WATCH: Erik Spoelstra rips LaMelo Ball for tripping Heat star Bam Adebayo

Adebayo suffered a lower-back injury on the play and was unable to return to the game. After the game, Ball spoke to the media and apologized for the play, saying the trip was unintentional.

"I apologize on that one. I got hit in the head, didn't really know where I was, but I'mma check on him and see if he's okay and everything."

—LaMelo Ball on the play that led to Bam Adebayo leaving the game. pic.twitter.com/79VIG5kuMK

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 15, 2026

“I apologize on that one,” Ball told reporters. “I got hit in the head, didn’t really know where I was, but I’mma check on him and see if he’s okay and everything.”

After the play, Ball was widely criticized on social media for the “dirty play.” Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra also sounded off on the incident, saying, “I don’t think it’s cute. I don’t think it’s funny. I think it’s a stupid play. It’s a dangerous play. He should be penalized for that. I don’t think that belongs in the game, tripping guys.”

— Watch NBA Play-In Tournament on Prime Video —

Ball was not penalized for the play, but it will be interesting to see whether the NBA will hand down punishment amid the fallout.

Adebayo finished the game with 6 points while recording three rebounds, one assist, and one steal. He played just 11 minutes in the first half.

Charlotte, meanwhile, keeps its season alive thanks to Ball’s heroics and will play in another do-or-die game on Friday, April 17, against the loser of Wednesday night’s game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic.

The winner will earn the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

Udonis Haslem calls out the refs for not penalizing LaMelo Ball for grabbing Bam Adebayo originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Heat had to play without Bam Adebayo from the start of the second quarter in their Play-In Tournament game against the Charlotte Hornets. It was an unfortunate injury, but some people are blaming LaMelo Ball for the injury.

Ball grabbed Adebayo's leg, tripping the Heat center up. He then had a hard fall onto his tailbone, which ruled him out for the rest of the game. Ball got away scot-free, which irked a lot of people in the Heat community.

Udonis Haslem is unhappy with the referees after LaMelo Ball's grab

Many were unhappy that Ball got away with not being penalized by the referees. Based on the replays, he did grab Adebayo's leg prior to the center's fall. 

It became even worse for the Heat fans because LaMelo ended up scoring the winning layup for the win. That ended the Heat's season because this was a do-or-die game between the ninth and 10th seeds.

MORE: Bam Adebayo leaves the Heat's Play-In game after taking a hard fall

As a Heat legend and now an NBA analyst, Udonis Haslem was in a unique position to give his take on the matter during the Prime Video NBA broadcast. He does not call Ball a dirty player, but he was unhappy with how the refs handled it.

"Obviously, emotions are flying, everybody's competing at a high level... LaMelo grabs Bam's leg, definitely a little WWE there. I will say Lamelo isn't a dirty player. I don't think he meant to do that intentionally to hurt Bam," Haslem said about the incident that led to Adebayo's exit.

"Unfortunately, the ref is sitting right there. That's got to be a call. Something has to be called. I don't know if it's a flagrant or a regular foul, but something has to be called, and that's a huge thing to miss."

Now, the Hornets can enjoy their opportunity to reach the Playoffs with another Play-In game. They will be playing against the loser of the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, which should be another blockbuster game.

More NBA news:

• Amazon Prime's technical difficulties sour a blockbuster game between Miami and Charlotte
• Kon Knueppel and LaMelo Ball labeled as the new Splash Brothers
• Kon Knueppel becomes the first rookie to ever lead the NBA in three-pointers made
• Brandon Miller celebrates LaMelo Ball's unique impact on the court
• Brandon Miller's inspiring message ahead of the NBA Playoffs

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra was fired up after his team was eliminated from the NBA Playoffs by the Charlotte Hornets in Tuesday night’s Play-In Tournament game.

The Heat lost in overtime, 127-126, after a game-winning shot by Hornets star LaMelo Ball. But that wasn’t the only big moment involving Ball in the game.

In the first half, Ball and Heat big man Bam Adebayo collided under the basket, which knocked Adebayo off balance. Ball then swiped at Adebayo’s foot and tripped him to the ground.

MORE: 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament TV schedule, full list of games & tip times

The incident resulted in Adebayo suffering a lower back injury, which kept him out for the remainder of the game.

Is this a dirty play by LaMelo? pic.twitter.com/tPebBPDLDC

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 15, 2026

Ball was not penalized on the play.

After the game, Spoelstra sounded off on the incident during his post-game press conference and ripped Ball for the play and the referees for not calling a foul and kicking the Hornets star out of the game.

— Watch NBA Play-In Tournament on Prime Video —

“I don’t think it’s cute. I don’t think it’s funny. I think it’s a stupid play. It’s a dangerous play,” Spoelstra told reporters. “He should be penalized for that. I don’t think that belongs in the game, tripping guys.

“Somebody has got to see that. He should have been thrown out of the game for that.”

Erik Spoelstra on LaMelo Ball's dirty play on Bam:

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play. He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He… pic.twitter.com/7pbCWPnUv8

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 15, 2026

It will be interesting to see if the NBA reviews the incident and hands down any punishment to Ball.

Unfortunately, the injury proved to be costly for the Heat, and their season is now over.

Ball, meanwhile, finished the game with 30 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds, and the Hornets will advance to the final play-in game on Friday, April 17. Charlotte will now face the loser of Wednesday night’s game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

Heat HC Erik Spoelstra blasts LaMelo Ball over dirty play on Bam Adebayo originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra was not happy with Charlotte Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball postgame after his dirty play on Bam Adebayo in the first half.

Spoelstra spoke to reporters after the loss and didn't mince any words on the play. 

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny," Spoelstra said. "I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play. He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He should have been thrown out of the game for that." 

Erik Spoelstra on LaMelo Ball's dirty play on Bam:

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play. He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He… pic.twitter.com/7pbCWPnUv8

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 15, 2026

Adebayo did not play in the second half of the contest after he suffered a hard fall in the second quarter of the contest. He was ruled out with a back injury. Here is how he suffered the injury. 

Is this a dirty play by LaMelo? pic.twitter.com/tPebBPDLDC

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 15, 2026

Heat Lose Bam Adebayo in Tough Overtime Defeat

Ball missed a fadeaway shot, and as Adebayo went for the rebound while trying to stay inbounds, Ball, who fell to the floor near Adebayo, swiped at one of the Heat center's feet with his left arm.

Adebayo fell to the floor and remained down for the next play before there was a stoppage. The 28-year-old was initially deemed questionable to return after the fall, but he was ultimately ruled out. 

The Heat suffered a tough overtime loss to the Hornets, 128-127. Miami is now eliminated from playoff contention. As for Charlotte, they will face the loser of the No. 7 seed Philadelphia 76ers and No. 8 seed Orlando Magic matchup on Friday.  

More NBA news: 

• Are Hornets in the playoffs? What Charlotte's Play-In win over Heat means for NBA playoff bracket

• Amazon Prime technical difficulties: Fans confused as Hornets-Heat broadcast goes dark in overtime

• Pelicans' Joe Dumars makes stance clear on Zion Williamson’s future in New Orleans

The Golden State Warriors will suit up for a win-or-go-home game on Wednesday night against the familiar foe, the Los Angeles Clippers. The Warriors and Clippers share the same division, conference and coast. However, that's not the only thing they share. The Warriors and Clippers have shared some similar storylines from the 2025-25 season. They've each had their ups and downs, along with major trades and injuries to their core players.

Despite playing four times during the regular season, each game tells a bit of a different story. Before the Warriors meet the Clippers in Wednesday's play-in game, Warriors Wire went back through the season, looking at every matchup between the No. 9 and No. 10 seed in the west, breaking down the leading scorers and different notes from each contest.

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

Game 1: Oct. 28, 2025

• Location: Chase Center - San Francisco

• Score: GSW 98 - LAC 79

• Leading Scorers:
  • LAC: James Harden: 20 PTS, 4 REB, AST, 3 TO
  • GSW: Jimmy Butler: 21 PTS, 5 REB, 5 AST

• Injuries:
  • LAC:
    • Bradley Beal (back)
    • Jordan Miller (hamstring)
    • Kobe Sanders (knee)
  • GSW:
    • DeAnthony Melton (ACL recovery)
• Notes:
  • Warriors rolling to open season. Moved to 4-1 with win over LAC.
  • Kawhi Leonard: 18 points, 7-17 FG, -29 (game-high)
  • 3 PT Battle:
    • LAC: 6-33 3PT FG
    • GSW: 17-45 3PT FG (GSW +11)
  • Sharing The Ball (Assists):
    • LAC Assists: 10
    • GSW Assists: 24 (GSW +14)
  • The Warriors covered the pregame spread of +2.5.

Game 2: Jan. 5, 2026 (GSW Leads Series 1-0)

• Location: Intuit Dome - Los Angeles

• Score: LAC 103 - GSW 102

• Leading Scorers:
  • LAC: Kawhi Leonard: 24 PTS, 12 REB, 5 AST, 2 BLK, 5 TO
  • GSW: Steph Curry: 27 PTS, 6 AST, 4 REB, 3 STL

• Injuries:
  • LAC:
    • Bradley Beal (back)
    • Bogdan Bogdanovic (hamstring)
    • Derrick Jones Jr. (knee sprain)
    • Chris Paul (not with team)
    • James Harden (shoulder)
  • GSW:
    • Seth Curry (Sciatic)
• Notes:
  • Clippers Surging, winners of 7 of last 8 with win over GSW.
  • Al Horford: 5 PTS, 1-8 FG, Team High -14
  • Gary Payton II: 14 PTS, 7-10 FG, 5 REB, 2 AST, 15 MIN OFF BENCH.
  • Jimmy Butler (24), Curry only players for Warriors to score over 20 PTS.
  • Steve Kerr ejected after John Collins goaltending call.
  • Steph Curry fouls out for first time since 2021. Hit back-to-back 3-pointers before fouling out.
  • Jimmy Butler misses a game-winning attempt at buzzer.
  • The Clippers covered the pregame spread of +3.5.

Game 3: March 2, 2026 (Series Tied 1-1)

• Location: Chase Center - San Francisco

• Score: LAC 114 - GSW 101

• Leading Scorers:
  • LAC: Kawhi Leonard: 23 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL
  • GSW: Brandin Podziemski: 22 PTS, 7 REB, 3 AST

• Injuries:
  • LAC:
    • Bradley Beal (hip)
    • John Collins (neck)
  • GSW:
    • Steph Curry (knee)
    • Jimmy Butler (ACL)
    • Kristaps Porzingis (illness)
    • Seth Curry (sciatic)
    • Will Richard (ankle)
    • Gary Payton II (ankle)
• Notes:
  • Despite dropping three in a row, the Clippers would go on to win seven of their next eight from March 1 to March 13.
  • The Warriors are struggling without Curry, losing seven of their next eight from Feb. 28 to March 15.
  • Six members of the Clippers score in double figures.
  • Darius Garland Clippers debut: 12 PTS, 2 REB, 2 AST, 5 TO
  • Yanic Konan Niederhauser sparks the Clippers off the bench with 11 points, nine rebounds and four blocks.
  • The Warriors led by as many as 17 points in the first half. The Warriors still led by double-figures in the third quarter.
  • The Warriors were outscored 72-55 in the second half.
  • The Clippers covered the pregame spread of -1.5.

Game 4: April 12, 2026 (LAC leads series 2-1)

• Location: Intuit Dome - Los Angeles

• Score: LAC 115 - GSW 110

• Leading Scorers:
  • LAC: Bennedict Mathurin: 20 PTS, 7-17 FG, 9 REB, 8 AST
  • GSW: Steph Curry: 24 PTS, 7-14 FG. 4-9 3PT FG, 6 REB, 3 AST, 3 TO

• Injuries:
  • LAC:
    • Bradley Beal (back)
    • Kawhi Leonard (ankle)
    • Yanic Konan Niederhauser (foot)
    • Isaiah Jackson (ankle)
  • GSW:
    • Jimmy Butler (ACL)
    • Moses Moody (knee)
    • Quinten Post (foot)
    • Draymond Green (back)
• Notes:
  • Clippers win season series 3-1.
  • The Clippers are 9-1 against the Warriors in their last 10 meetings.
  • The Warriors struggle from beyond the arc, shooting 11-of-39 from deep. (28%).
  • Steph Curry's fourth game back from injury. Missed 27 games with a knee injury.
  • Curry (29), Kristaps Porzingis (24) and Al Horford (19) all played significant minutes together for the first time in 2025-26 season. The trio of core players have all been dealing with injuries.
  • The Portland Trail Blazers' win over the Sacramento Kings on the final day of the NBA season finalized the Western Conference standings, locking in the Clippers vs. Warriors in the play-in tournament.
  • The Warriors covered the pregame spread of +6.5.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors vs. Clippers: Breaking down each matchup from regular season

The Houston Rockets have had players donning a total of 52 different jersey numbers (and have one not part of any numerical series for Houston assistant coach and general manager Carroll Dawson) since their founding at the start of the 1967-68 season, worn by just under 500 players in the course of Rockets history.

To honor all of the players who wore those numbers over the decades, Rockets Wire is covering the entire history of jersey numbers and the players who wore them since the founding of the team all those years ago right up to the present day.

With seven of those jerseys now retired to honor some of the greatest Rockets of all time to wear those jerseys, there is a lot of history to cover.

And for today's article, we will continue with the second of 16 who wore the No. 12, Hall of Fame guard alum Rick Adelman. After ending his college career at Loyola Marymount, Adelman was picked up with the 79th overall selection (there were many more rounds in that era of the draft) of the 1968 NBA Draft by the (then) San Diego (now, Houston) Rockets.

The Lynwood, California native played the first two seasons of his pro career with San Diego before he was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 1970 NBA expansion draft.

During his time suiting up for the Rockets, Adelman wore only jersey No. 12 and put up 6.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.

All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.

This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets jersey history No. 12 - Rick Adelman (1968-70)

Bam Adebayo injury update: Heat star leaves game after taking hard fall vs. Hornets originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Heat are playing for survival against the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA Play-In Tournament, but they may have to continue without their biggest star.

Center Bam Adebayo took a fall in the first half that seemed to cause him to injure his tailbone, as he was moving gingerly after the play. Therefore, the Heat medical staff took Adebayo out of the game for further review.

The Heat already don't have a ton of firepower, and losing Adebayo for any amount of time would to tough to overcome. Miami needs to beat Charlotte on Tuesday night to advance in the Play-In Tournament.

Here's the latest on Adebayo's status.

NBA PLAYOFFS HQ:Live NBA scores | NBA playoff schedule | NBA playoff bracket

Bam Adebayo injury update

In the second quarter of the Play-In Tournament vs. the Hornets, Adebayo took a hard fall that forced him to leave the game. Adebayo went for a rebound but landed on his tailbone and was clearly in some discomfort.

Bam Adebayo is hurt and landed hard on his tailbone pic.twitter.com/sLpKSAp61a

— Heat Clips 🎬 (@MiamiClip) April 15, 2026

On replay, it appeared that LaMelo Ball was already on the ground when he tripped Adebayo, causing the big man to leave his feet.

The play where Bam Adebayo got taken out. LaMelo Ball was complaining to the referees afterward. pic.twitter.com/xbKAhslFHB

— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) April 15, 2026

Trainers attended to Adebayo, who was able to get up but walked off the court slowly and back to the locker room. Miami later declared him questionable to return.

The Heat say Bam Adebayo left tonight’s game in Charlotte with a lower back injury and his return is questionable.

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 15, 2026

In the middle of the third quarter, Miami ruled Adebayo out for the game.

The Heat now say Bam Adebayo has been ruled out for the remainder of the game. https://t.co/UFI4wB4wnz

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 15, 2026

Without Adebayo, the Heat lost a heartbreaker in overtime by just a point. After the game, head coach Erik Spoelstra criticized Ball for seemingly tripping Adebayo, saying he should've been ejected from the game.

Erik Spoelstra on LaMelo Ball's dirty play on Bam:

"I don't think it's cute. I don't think it's funny. I think it's a stupid play. It's a dangerous play. He should be penalized for that. I don't think that belongs in the game, tripping guys. Somebody has got to see that. He… pic.twitter.com/7pbCWPnUv8

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) April 15, 2026

Adebayo declined to speak with the media postgame, but he may have something to say in the team's closing media session. He played just 11 minutes in the Heat's final game of the year.

The Miami Heat’s quest to come out of the NBA Play-In Tournament may have just become a lot more difficult.

Early in the second quarter, Heat captain Bam Adebayo was shaken up when he took a hard fall on the court. He's questionable to return with a lower back injury, per the Heat.

During the play, Adebayo was trying to save a ball from going out of bounds when Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball took Adebayo's foot out from under him. Adebayo lost his balance and then fell on his backside, landing on his tailbone. Adebayo fell without the ability to brace himself. He remained down in discomfort for a minute or so, but eventually walked off.

He got up on his under his own power, though he walked gingerly into the locker room for observation.

Bam Adebayo falls hard and walks gingerly to the locker room after LaMelo Ball grabs his foot while in mid-air, swinging it (with replays) pic.twitter.com/bI3gC13xKk

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) April 15, 2026

With his ability to guard every position on the floor, Adebayo is Miami’s anchor on defense. A three-time All-Star and five-time All-Defense selection, Adebayo averaged 20.1 points, 10.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game in 73 appearances.

On March 10, Adebayo scored the second-most points in a single game in NBA history, when he dropped 83 on the Washington Wizards.

This story will be updated

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bam Adebayo injury update after LaMelo Ball tie-up in Heat-Hornets

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard had high praise for the Golden State Warriors ahead of Wednesday's Play-In Tournament matchup.

Leonard knows the organization quite well, as the 14-year forward has spent plenty of time as their opponent. Leonard battled the Warriors in the playoffs as a member of the San Antonio Spurs and in the 2019 NBA Finals as a member of the Toronto Raptors.

"He's (Curry) one of the greatest players to play this game," Leonard said. "Even if it's just a pickup game, just being able to share the floor with a player like that, being coached by Steve Kerr, also playing with Draymond, that unit over there of championship pedigree. It's a great opportunity. You can't take it for granted."

Leonard and the Clippers enter the game as slight favorites, having taken the season series 3-1.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Kawhi Leonard lauds Warriors ahead of Play-In Tournament matchup

Nobody wants the Miami Heat to lose more than their fans originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Miami Heat find themselves in the NBA Play-In game for a fourth consecutive season after finishing the year 43-39 and ending the regular season on a 5-10 run. They now matchup against the Charlotte Hornets as the tenth seed with a chance to jump up to the eighth seed should they finish the Play-In strong.

However, there have been plenty of mixed emotions from the Heat fanbase on whether or not they want the team to make or miss the NBA Playoffs. That comes as the 2026 NBA Draft is loaded with talent all throughout the first round.

As statistics sit right now, Miami has a better chance at obtaining a top-4 NBA Draft pick at 4.8% or even the number one overall pick at 1% than they do of making it to, or winning the NBA Finals, which are both set at less than 1% on different prediction markets.

Nobody wants the Miami Heat to lose tonight more than Miami Heat fans.

They have a higher % chance of obtaining a top-4 pick (4.8%) or the number one pick (1%) per @tankathon than making and winning the NBA Finals (less than 1%) on prediction markets.

This is the lottery that… pic.twitter.com/aj5zI9dxr2

— Sammy Profeta (@profeta_sammy) April 14, 2026

The 2026 NBA Draft class has been argued to be one of the best since the 2003 class that featured LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. Within the top-4 picks alone in the 2026 class, Aj Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson have all been eyed as franchise-shifting players for years to come.

Even if Miami misses out on a top-4 pick, they still have a shot at players such as Darius Acuff Jr., Keaton Wagler, Mikel Brown Jr., Kingston Flemings, and reigning National Champion, Yaxel Lendeborg. All of who scouts believe have high upside.

Will a nightmare situation repeat itself for Miami?

Heat fans are also more open to losing the Play-In game against Charlotte following what they believe is a “miss” on Cooper Flagg in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Last year, Miami finished as the 10-seed in the East and ended up becoming the first 10-seed in NBA history to win two straight road games and advance to the playoffs, where they were ultimately swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

If Miami had lost its first Play-In game, they would have ended up with the 11th-shortest lottery odds to obtain the number one pick in last year’s draft. After the lottery unveiled itself, the Dallas Mavericks, who ended up with the 11th shortest odds, did the unthinkable and were rewarded with the top pick, to which they eventually drafted Flagg.

More: Azzi Fudd, Paige Bueckers reunite in Dallas following UConn success

Fast track to the present day, Flagg is making a strong case for the NBA’s Rookie of the Year, having averaged 21 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, and the Miami Heat find themselves in the same situation as last year.

The Heat and Hornets tip off on Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. EST on Prime Video, with the winner moving on to face the loser of the Orlando Magic/Philadelphia 76ers Play-In matchup.

More college basketball news:

• Stephen A. Smith slams Geno Auriemma after confrontation with Dawn Staley
• Watch: Geno Auriemma has words for Dawn Staley in heated exchange at Final Four
• Brother of UNC Final Four legend lands largest NIL offer in Division II history
• Why Cameron Boozer and Fernando Mendoza could soon make sports history
• Duke's Cameron Boozer becomes fifth player in college basketball history with a season like this

The Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets face off in a win-or-go-home NBA Play-In matchup with the loser eliminated and the winner advancing.

MORE: Nikola Jokic makes bold Victor Wembanyama claim after Nuggets-Spurs thriller

How to Watch Heat vs Hornets

• When: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
• Time: 7:30 PM ET
• TV Channel: Prime Video
• Live Stream: Prime (try for free)

The Miami Heat enter as the No. 10 seed at 43-39, coming off a dominant 143-117 win over the Hawks in their regular-season finale.

The Heat’s current core is built around Bam Adebayo, who leads the team with roughly 20 points and 10 rebounds per game, alongside Tyler Herro and Norman Powell, who have averaged over 20 points per game this season.

Miami also won the season series 3-1, giving them a confidence edge despite entering on the road. With multiple play-in appearances in recent years, the Heat bring experience and a proven ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

– Live Stream Heat vs Hornets with Prime –

The Charlotte Hornets finished 44-38 to secure the No. 9 seed and home-court advantage, highlighted by a 110-96 win over the Knicks to lock in their position.

Charlotte is led by LaMelo Ball, who averages over 7 assists per game, along with rising star Brandon Miller, who leads the team in scoring at 20.2 points per game.

The Hornets have been one of the league’s best offensive teams this season and are playing with momentum, but their lack of postseason experience compared to Miami could be a factor in a high-stakes elimination game.

This is a great NBA matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.

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After reports surfaced on Monday, April 13 that Los Angeles Lakers stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are inching closer to their returns from injuries, head coach JJ Redick made it clear on Tuesday, April 14 that there will be no further updates in the near future.

"Look, they're out indefinitely," Redick told reporters during his media availability at Tuesday's practice. "I'm not gonna have an update for you this week. They're out indefinitely."

NBA insider Marc Stein confirmed an earlier report that Doncic is scheduled to return to the Lakers on Friday and will be re-evaluated after undergoing multiple injection procedures in Spain in hopes of accelerating his recovery from a grade 2 left hamstring strain.

Reaves, meanwhile, has been rehabbing a grade 2 left oblique muscle strain in Los Angeles. Both Reaves and Doncic sustained their injuries during a blowout loss in Oklahoma City on April 2 and missed the rest of the regular season and will likely be out through at least the first round of the playoffs, where the No. 4-seeded Lakers will take on the No. 5 seed Houston Rockets.

While they're considered out indefinitely, both injuries usually carry a standard recovery window of about four-to-six weeks, which would sideline Doncic and Reaves through the first week of May. It's currently unclear how effective the treatment Doncic got in Spain actually was or if it impacted his timeline at all, and it most likely won't be known until after his re-evaluation at the end of the week.

What is a grade 2 hamstring strain?

A Grade 2 hamstring strain is a “moderate injury that is typically a partial tear in the muscle; patients are likely to limp when walking and will have occasional twinges of pain during activity,” according to Mercy Health.

The injury could take close to a month to heal, but “returning to sports before the injury is fully healed can cause more severe injuries.”

What is a grade 2 oblique strain?

A grade 2 oblique strain is another moderate strain in which "one of the abdominal muscles (internal or external oblique muscles) becomes frayed, torn or detached, often from the lower four ribs," according to Performance Place. The injury makes it painful for someone to breathe, cough and laugh and is common among baseball players and golfers.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves injury updates, latest on Lakers stars

Entering the NBA playoffs as the title favorite, the Oklahoma City Thunder are 16 wins away from history. They hope to be the first squad since the Golden State Warriors to win back-to-back championships. It's a tall task, but this group feels like the best shot since those Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant days.

It took a little longer than last year, but the Thunder clinched the NBA's best record with a few days to spare. That means, for the third straight time, they will have homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs. To understand the magnitude of that feat, reference back to last year's two Game 7 wins.

Awaiting to see who their Round 1 opponent is, the Thunder have a pretty clear path to the Western Conference Finals at a minimum. They should take care of business against the play-in tournament survivor. And then Round 2 will feature either the depleted Los Angeles Lakers or the depleted Houston Rockets.

But the Thunder aren't getting too ahead of themselves. Jalen Williams talked about their mindset as they enter the NBA playoffs playing their best basketball — which coincides with them being the healthiest they've been all year. He even revealed what OKC GM Sam Presti's message was to the group.

"It's something we talk about. Because I feel like when you try and avoid talking about things, it starts to creep into everybody's head. So we've talked about it," Williams said. "Sam made a really good point. You can play the Finals back last year six million times, and there's a lot of times we don't win it. Like, Memphis, somebody can get hurt. You just never know. I know Indiana feels the exact same way, too."

That's probably the right mindset to have. The Thunder have preached since Media Day that they're flipping the page from last year. You can't bring over last year's dominance or expect things to play out the same way. To win an NBA championship, you need as much luck as talent.

"That's our biggest motivators. We can't go back in time and replicate any of that. That's what makes this really special for us. It's like a zero and zero mindset kind of thing," Williams said. "Everybody hates me for saying it, but this playoff run is so unique and so different from the last one. We have to have the ability to understand that."

Let's see how Williams' wisdom ages in a couple of months. Unlike last year, the Thunder have experience to call back on at the highest stakes of professional basketball. It's now about applying that to the present. If they can do that, there's no real reason why they shouldn't go back-to-back and add another championship banner next October.

Jalen Williams on if they talked about going back-to-back: “We’ve talked about it. Sam made a really good point. You can play the Finals back last year 6 million times, and there's a lot of times we don't win it. Like, Memphis, somebody can get hurt. You just never know. I know… pic.twitter.com/b7zGUsTqqV

— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) April 14, 2026

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Jalen Williams reveals Sam Presti's message to Thunder ahead of NBA playoffs