LeBron James Weighs Next NBA Destination Amid Free Agency LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and 22-time All-Star, is currently in the final stages of deciding his next team after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. The 41-year-old superstar, who officially informed the Lakers of his departure in late June, is an unrestricted free agent and has been in active discussions with multiple franchises. While the exact details of his decision remain private, insiders suggest he is nearing a choice, with several teams expressing interest in his services. James, who has spent the majority of his 23-season NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, is known for his meticulous approach to such decisions. A person with direct knowledge of the situation told USA TODAY Sports that James has received all necessary information from potential suitors and is now carefully evaluating his options. The individual spoke anonymously due to confidentiality agreements, emphasizing that the timeline for a final decision could be imminent. The free agent market has been abuzz with speculation about James’ potential destinations. Among the most frequently mentioned teams are the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves. The Cavaliers and Heat, in particular, hold special significance for James. He was selected first overall by Cleveland in 2003 and later helped the franchise win its first NBA title in 2016. Similarly, he led the Heat to two championships in 2012 and 2013 before joining the Lakers in 2018. James’ decision is driven by his desire to compete for another championship, a goal that has defined his career.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #cleveland_cavaliers #miami_heat #philadelphia_76ers
76ers Intensify Pursuit of LeBron James with Key Players Involvement As LeBron James' free agency decision extends into its second week, the Philadelphia 76ers have remained actively engaged in their pursuit of the four-time NBA champion, with three key players leading the effort. League sources confirmed to ESPN that Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown have all been in communication with James, with Maxey playing a central role in the outreach. The 25-year-old Maxey, a fellow Klutch Sports client, has previously referred to James as a "big brother" and has trained with him during the offseason. Embiid, the 2022-23 league MVP, shared a historic connection with James, having teamed up to win a gold medal for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Brown, who faced James in playoff battles during his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, received an MVP endorsement from James in February. James praised Brown's performance, stating, "He's playing great basketball, man. This whole MVP thing, I don't understand why his name is not getting talked about some, as well. Like, nobody gave them a shot to start the season." James also highlighted his admiration for the Philadelphia fan base after scoring 12 of his 29 points in the fourth quarter during a December game against the Los Angeles Lakers. He remarked, "One thing you know about Philly fans, they don't care about anybody besides their home teams, and I respect and I love that. I've played here, for obviously 23 years, a lot more when I was in Eastern Conference. But to be able to have an appreciation for the City of Brotherly Love and for me to go out and still play the game that I love and them respect it, whatever the case may be -- if they do -- it's pretty cool.#jaylen_brown #lebron_james #philadelphia_76ers #tyrese_maxey #joel_embiid
Labaron Philon Jr. Makes Impressive NBA Summer League Debut with Philadelphia 76ers The Philadelphia 76ers’ Summer League squad made its debut in Las Vegas on Thursday, with No. 22 overall draft pick Labaron Philon Jr. suiting up for the first time in a Sixers jersey. The 21-year-old guard, who rose from a freshman season at Alabama to a breakout sophomore campaign, delivered a standout performance in the team’s 101-93 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Despite a challenging shooting night, Philon showcased his elite ball-handling skills, court vision, and ability to thrive in a low-organization setting. Philon’s debut was marked by immediate impact, as he converted an off-the-dribble three on the Sixers’ first possession, setting the tone for his night. He followed with an assist on a pick-and-pop triple for Johni Broome, the team’s second-round pick from last year, and a spot-up three that highlighted his comfort in spacing. His early dominance was evident, though he cooled off in the second half, shooting 4-for-10 from beyond the arc. Still, his final line of 18 points, seven assists, and three rebounds underscored his potential as a playmaker. The Sixers’ Summer League team, which carries minimal NBA experience beyond Broome, prioritized development over results. Head coach TJ DiLeo focused on giving Philon and Broome opportunities to grow, while also evaluating undrafted players for potential G League placements in 2026-27. Broome, who struggled in his rookie season with just 55 minutes of action, showed renewed aggressiveness on Thursday, particularly in attacking the basket from beyond the arc. Though he was not a prolific three-point shooter in college, the Sixers’ faith in his perimeter potential remains a key storyline.#las_vegas #philadelphia_76ers #johni_broome #labaron_philon_jr #tj_dileo
LeBron James' Free Agency: Rich Paul Lists Potential Teams LeBron James, now a free agent, has become the focus of NBA free agency as his agent, Rich Paul, openly discusses potential destinations for the 41-year-old superstar. Since James’ decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers, Paul has been vocal about his client’s options, revealing a list of teams that could potentially welcome him in the upcoming season. The information emerged during a conversation on Paul’s “Game Over” podcast with Max Kellerman, where he used a whiteboard to outline possible teams. Among the names highlighted were the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs, and Dallas Mavericks. Paul also mentioned that the Knicks are among the teams that have checked in on James. Additionally, he noted that James would have definitely joined the Knicks had they not just won a championship. Paul’s approach has been to publicly discuss the teams interested in James, though he acknowledged that some names on the list may not yet have formal inquiries. The agent’s statements are part of his role in promoting James, even as the player’s legacy and performance make him an attractive option for nearly every contender. The list of teams Paul presented reflects the broader landscape of the league, where nearly every franchise is vying for a superstar’s attention. While the Knicks, 76ers, and Celtics are prominent names, the inclusion of teams like the Mavericks and Spurs shows that even mid-tier franchises are considering James as a potential game-changer. However, the focus remains on the top contenders, as these teams are more likely to offer the resources and competitive environment James seeks at this stage of his career.#boston_celtics #lebron_james #new_york_knicks #philadelphia_76ers #rich_paul
LeBron James Weighs Multiple Team Options as Free Agency Looms Three days after LeBron James confirmed he would not return to the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent, Rich Paul, emphasized that the Cleveland Cavaliers’ star has a wide array of choices and that the intrigue surrounding his decision is far from over. During an episode of his "Game Over" podcast with Max Kellerman, Paul outlined the potential destinations for James, detailing the unique factors each team brings to the table. The discussion, which included a whiteboard filled with team names, aimed to demystify the process for fans and highlight the complexities of James’ decision-making. Paul revealed that he has spoken to 27 teams about James, with the number continuing to grow as the free agency window expands. The factors influencing James’ choice are constantly shifting, as seen in the Philadelphia 76ers’ recent trade for Jaylen Brown. “Every day things change,” Paul said, noting that James now has the luxury of making a decision without the pressure of a championship chase. “He’s won already. This is strictly for his happiness.” The 76ers emerged as a strong contender, with Paul praising their roster and front office. The team features Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and V.J. Edgecombe, alongside newly acquired Jaylen Brown. Paul highlighted the chemistry between James and Maxey, who has trained with him during the summer, and the potential synergy with Embiid, who has maintained his health and habits. “He enhances everything there. He unlocks everything there,” Paul said, adding that the 76ers’ leadership, including managing partner Josh Harris and former Warriors GM Bob Myers, also plays a role in the appeal. Cleveland, referred to as “the C-town,” was another focal point.#lebron_james #cleveland_cavaliers #philadelphia_76ers #rich_paul #josh_harris
Ben Simmons Talks to Men's Health About Possible NBA Comeback & New Fishing Venture Ben Simmons has been out fishing in the waters southeast of Miami since 6:15 a.m. on a humid May day, his 53-foot boat pushing away from the marina with a waning crescent still hung in the sky. The 29-year-old has spent most of the morning up on the bow of his boat, casting and reeling, waiting, scanning. “Any moment, something can happen,” he says. A few hours in, not much has. He caught some bar jack, a wahoo that he’ll keep to eat later, and a mahimahi that was so small it had to be tossed back. So he finally takes a seat inside the air-conditioned enclosure on the deck of his boat and puts his bare feet up. His hands rest in his lap. “There’s nothing there besides what’s underneath,” he says, gesturing at the glassy ocean, when I ask what he likes about fishing. His answers are short at first, becoming more animated the longer we talk. He keeps a watchful eye on Captain Ray (“Cap” to Simmons), who takes him on many of his fishing excursions, and exits the enclosed center console to grab a rod. Simmons finds fishing peaceful, but he also likes the “surprise factor,” that at any moment, anything can happen, and you have to be ready for that. Just a few minutes later, right on cue, he sees Cap’s line catch. “Oh, he’s on!” Simmons says, and in one motion, his lithe 6'10" frame is up and through the enclosure, his powerful arms taking control of the rod. He gets the fish in easily. A barracuda. Not terrible for eating, but it runs a high risk of causing ciguatera, a type of food poisoning. Plus, it “smells like shit,” he says. (Fortunately, I didn’t get a chance to confirm.) So it lives another day, and Simmons returns to his seat, clearly reinvigorated by the rush.#philadelphia_76ers #ben_simmons #montverde_academy #sport_fishing_championship #south_florida_sails_angling_club
The Larry O'Brien Trophy: History, Design, and Evolution of the NBA's Prestigious Award The NBA's iconic championship trophy, known today as the Larry O'Brien Trophy, has undergone significant transformations since its creation in 1977. Originally crafted by Tiffany & Co., the trophy was first introduced as the Walter A. Brown Trophy, named after the longtime NBA owner and president. This initial design featured a basketball atop a hoop and basket, a concept that would remain central to the trophy’s identity for decades. The Portland Trail Blazers became the first team to receive the redesigned trophy in 1977 after defeating the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Finals. In 1984, the trophy was renamed in honor of Larry O'Brien, who served as NBA commissioner from 1975 to 1984. O'Brien, a former U.S. Postmaster General under President Lyndon B. Johnson, was celebrated for his leadership during a pivotal era in the league’s history. The renaming marked a shift in the trophy’s legacy, aligning it with the broader narrative of the NBA’s growth and cultural significance. The original design, which stood 25.5 inches tall and weighed 29 pounds, included a regulation-size basketball and a base that could accommodate the names of past champions. The trophy’s design evolved further in 2022 when Tiffany & Co. partnered with artist Victor Solomon to modernize the entire NBA trophy collection. The updated Larry O'Brien Trophy retained its basketball motif but introduced new elements to reflect the league’s forward-looking vision. The redesigned trophy features a two-level cylindrical base, with the top disc listing the NBA’s first 75 championship teams from 1947 to 2021 and the bottom disc reserved for the next 25 champions from 2022 to 2046.#nba #philadelphia_76ers #portland_trail_blazers #tiffany_co #larry_obrien
Landry Shamet an Unsung Hero Who Can't Be Ignored in Knicks' Incredible Playoff Run The New York Knicks’ historic playoff run, now two wins away from their first championship in over half a century, has been fueled by a mix of star power and under-the-radar contributions. While Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns dominate headlines, the team’s success hinges on a roster of unsung heroes, with Landry Shamet emerging as a critical, yet often overlooked, figure in their journey. Despite his second consecutive veteran’s minimum contract, Shamet’s impact has been undeniable, particularly in pivotal moments that defined the Knicks’ path to the NBA Finals. Shamet’s journey this season has been marked by resilience and determination. After suffering a shoulder injury in the 2025 preseason, he spent time rehabilitating in the G-League before rejoining the Knicks midseason. While he returned to the roster, his role in the regular season was limited, falling out of the rotation as the playoffs approached. However, the Knicks turned to him in the Conference Finals, where his late-game heroics became a turning point. Facing elimination against the Philadelphia 76ers, Shamet’s ability to step up under pressure helped New York secure a dramatic comeback. The Knicks’ playoff run took a dramatic turn in the second round when Shamet’s performance against the 76ers showcased his value. In Games 3 and 4 of that series, he scored 15 and 12 points respectively, hitting crucial three-pointers that sealed the series. His efficiency from beyond the arc—shooting 6-of-9 in those two games—highlighted his role as a reliable shooter in high-stakes situations. This performance earned him a place in the Conference Finals, where his contributions became even more vital.#new_york_knicks #jalen_brunson #philadelphia_76ers #karl_anthony_towns #landry_shamet
Philadelphia 76ers Star Joel Embiid Out for Game 2 Against Knicks Due to Ankle and Hip Injuries The Philadelphia 76ers will face the New York Knicks in Game 2 of their playoff series on Wednesday without one of their most pivotal players. Center Joel Embiid has been ruled out for the matchup due to lingering ankle and hip injuries, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. This development comes after Embiid contributed 14 points in 25 minutes during the 76ers’ 137-98 loss to the Knicks in Game 1. Embiid’s absence marks another setback for the 76ers, who have relied heavily on his scoring and playmaking throughout the postseason. The 28-year-old forward has battled recurring injuries throughout his career, limiting him to just 38 games during the regular season. His availability for the playoffs has been a topic of concern, as his health has directly impacted the team’s performance. The injury news adds pressure to the 76ers’ coaching staff, who will need to adjust their strategy without Embiid’s presence. The Knicks, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on their opponent’s struggles, particularly in a series where momentum could shift dramatically. Embiid’s potential return remains uncertain, with the team likely to monitor his condition closely in the coming days. The decision to sit Embiid reflects the delicate balance between protecting his long-term health and maintaining competitive performance. While the 76ers have shown resilience in the early stages of the playoffs, the absence of their star player could test their depth and adaptability. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team responds to this challenge. This situation also highlights the broader challenges teams face in managing star players’ health during high-stakes seasons.#shams_charania #new_york_knicks #philadelphia_76ers #joel_embiid #playoff_series
Boston Celtics' Playoffs Collapse and Fantasy Outlook: A Season of Disappointment and Strategic Questions The Boston Celtics' playoff run came to an abrupt end after they squandered a 3-1 series lead against the Philadelphia 76ers, losing Game 7 at home to a seven-seed. This defeat marked a rare low point for a franchise known for its championship pedigree, especially since the Celtics had previously defeated the Sixers in every playoff series since 1982. The loss was not solely attributed to the absence of Jayson Tatum, who missed the final game due to a knee injury, but rather to the team’s inability to sustain a deep postseason run with their current roster. Despite this, the Celtics remain a strong fantasy option, with five players ranked in the top 100 across points in category leagues. Jaylen Brown emerged as the team’s cornerstone, earning All-Star, All-NBA, and MVP recognition. He carried the team through much of the season without Tatum, showcasing a career year with 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. His shooting splits of 48/34/80 highlighted his efficiency, and he finished 9th in per-game value, averaging 50 fantasy points per game. However, his performance in 9-cat leagues was slightly dinged by turnovers, as he averaged 3.6 giveaways per game. Brown’s consistency and leadership made him a top-30 player in fantasy drafts, and his value is expected to remain high for the 2026-27 season. Tatum’s return to the lineup in the final month of the regular season was a critical factor in the Celtics’ efforts. Despite a rusty jump shot—connecting on just 41% of his field goals and 33% of his three-pointers—he still delivered a second-round value in fantasy leagues.#boston_celtics #jayson_tatum #jaylen_brown #philadelphia_76ers #derrick_white
Game 7s in NBA Playoff History: Stats, Legends, and Records The 2026 NBA Playoffs have brought three Eastern Conference First Round series to Game 7, continuing a tradition that dates back to the league’s earliest days. These matchups are steeped in history, with Game 7s often serving as the ultimate stage for dramatic comebacks, clutch performances, and defining moments in NBA lore. From the first Game 7 in 1948 to modern-day legends like LeBron James and Jayson Tatum, the NBA’s seventh games have produced unforgettable moments that shape the league’s narrative. As of the 2025 playoffs, a total of 155 Game 7s have been played in NBA history, with home teams holding a dominant 115-40 record (.742). This trend underscores the significance of home-court advantage, though road wins have been rare but impactful. For example, the 2024-25 season saw at least one Game 7 road winner, continuing a streak of 10 consecutive seasons with such victories. The Boston Celtics, with 37 Game 7s, lead all franchises, boasting a 27-10 (.730) record, while the Los Angeles Lakers (16-8, .667) and Philadelphia 76ers (6-12, .333) also figure prominently in the historical tally. Notable players have left indelible marks on Game 7s. Jayson Tatum’s 51-point performance against the 76ers in the 2023 Eastern Conference Semifinals remains the highest single-game total in a Game 7, while LeBron James holds the record for most points scored across all Game 7s with 279. Jerry West, with 278 points in nine Game 7s, is second, and Bill Russell’s perfect 10-0 record in Game 7s as a player is unmatched. In the NBA Finals, Jerry West’s 42-point Game 7 in 1969 still stands as the highest single-game total, and his triple-double in that series remains a rare feat. Coaches have also shaped Game 7 history.#boston_celtics #jayson_tatum #lebron_james #philadelphia_76ers #nba_playoffs
NBA Playoffs 2026: Three Game 7s Set to Decide East Semifinals The first round of the 2026 NBA playoffs has delivered a mix of historic comebacks, upsets, and dramatic finishes, culminating in three Game 7 showdowns for the first time since the round adopted a best-of-seven format in 2003. The East Conference will host all three decisive matchups, with the New York Knicks set to face the winner of the Boston Celtics-Philadelphia 76ers series. Meanwhile, the other semifinal matchup will be determined by Sunday’s Detroit Pistons-Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers-Toronto Raptors games. The Pistons’ Game 7 against the Orlando Magic will take place on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC. The Magic, who scored the fewest points in a half in NBA playoff history during Game 1, face a critical challenge without star guard Franz Wagner, who is sidelined due to a right calf strain. ESPN analysts emphasize that the Magic’s success hinges on their physicality, particularly in the paint. In Game 1, Jalen Suggs’ defensive intensity, Wendell Carter Jr.’s presence, and Paolo Banchero’s balance between scoring and playmaking set the tone. However, the absence of Wagner forces role players like Tristan da Silva, Anthony Black, and Jamal Cain to step up. The Pistons, meanwhile, must rely on their suffocating defense to avoid another stunning comeback. Cade Cunningham, the team’s best player, will need support from Duren inside, who must dominate the paint to neutralize the Magic’s frontcourt. The Pistons’ struggles from beyond the arc—ranking last in 3-point makes and percentage during the playoffs—add pressure, though analysts suggest a breakthrough in Game 7 could shift momentum. In the Raptors-Cavaliers series, the Game 7 on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC/Peacock will test Toronto’s defensive resilience.#boston_celtics #new_york_knicks #philadelphia_76ers #detroit_pistons #nba_playoffs_2026
New York Knicks Set for NBA Playoffs Second Round Clash with 76ers or Celtics The New York Knicks secured their place in the NBA playoffs second round with a dominant performance against the Atlanta Hawks, marking a historic moment in franchise history. The Knicks delivered a crushing 140-89 victory in Game 6 of their first-round series, capping off a series defined by their overwhelming superiority. The game featured a staggering halftime lead of 83-36, the largest in NBA postseason history, as the Knicks overwhelmed the Hawks from the outset. The rout was further highlighted by a chaotic first-half brawl that erupted after the Knicks extended their lead to 50 points (72-22) with less than five minutes remaining in the first half. With their fourth consecutive playoff run, the Knicks now face a critical decision in the second round. Their next opponent will be either the Philadelphia 76ers or the Boston Celtics, depending on the outcome of the winner-take-all Game 7 between those two teams, set for Saturday night at TD Garden. The Knicks’ second-round series will begin on Monday, May 4, with the exact matchups and home-court advantage determined by the result of the 76ers-Celtics clash. If the Celtics defeat the 76ers, the Knicks will travel to Boston as the lower-seeded team. Conversely, a 76ers victory would grant the Knicks home-court advantage in their series against Philadelphia. The Knicks’ second-round schedule has been officially announced, with the following dates and broadcast details: Game 1: May 4, 8 p.m., NBC/Peacock Game 2: May 6, 7 p.m., ESPN Game 3: May 8, 7 p.m., Prime Game 4: May 10, 3:30 p.m.#boston_celtics #new_york_knicks #atlanta_hawks #philadelphia_76ers #nba_playoffs
Boston Celtics' Jayson Tatum Out for Game 7 vs. 76ers Due to Left Knee Stiffness Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has been ruled out for Game 7 of the first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers after experiencing left knee stiffness. The decision comes as the Celtics face a critical moment in the series, having dropped two consecutive games after holding a 3-1 lead. Tatum’s absence will leave the team without one of its key players in a decisive matchup at TD Garden. Tatum, who sat out the entire fourth quarter of Game 6, was listed as “questionable” on the team’s Saturday injury report before being downgraded to “out” hours before the game. While Boston’s coaching staff initially downplayed the injury, Tatum himself described the issue as mere stiffness in his leg. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Tatum assured teammates he was fine and ready to play, but the Celtics ultimately decided to sit him for Game 7. The injury comes after Tatum returned from a season-ending right Achilles tendon tear sustained during the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks last May. He made his comeback in March, playing 16 regular-season games for the Celtics, who secured the No. 2 seed in the East despite his absence for much of the 2025-26 campaign. In the playoffs, Tatum has averaged 23.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game while shooting 47.5% from the field, including 36.5% from beyond the arc. Tatum’s absence in Game 6 raised concerns among fans, particularly in Boston, but the team’s medical staff and coaching staff minimized the injury’s impact. Coach Joe Mazzulla denied that Tatum’s leg issue was an injury, and Tatum himself claimed it was temporary stiffness.#boston_celtics #jayson_tatum #philadelphia_76ers #tyrese_maxey #joel_embiid
Celtics' Jayson Tatum Listed as Questionable for Game 7 vs. 76ers BOSTON -- Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum was added to the injury report with left knee soreness just hours before Game 7 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the Philadelphia 76ers, raising concerns about his availability for the decisive matchup. The injury report, released Saturday afternoon, labeled Tatum as questionable, adding tension to a series already steeped in historical significance. The game, set for Sunday, marks the 23rd time the Celtics and 76ers have faced each other in the playoffs—a record for the most playoff meetings between two teams in NBA history. Tatum’s injury situation has been a focal point of the series. During Game 6, he left the Celtics’ 106-93 loss to the 76ers in the third quarter with 4:03 remaining, exiting the game and not returning. Initially, Boston’s coaching staff indicated he would be available to re-enter, but head coach Joe Mazzulla opted to bench the starters early in the fourth quarter. The decision came as the Celtics trailed 88-65 with 10:24 left in the period. Mazzulla explained the move as a strategic shift to "give the game a different feel," emphasizing the team’s depth and the opportunity to let bench players take over. Despite the coach’s reassurances, Tatum’s status remained uncertain. During post-game interviews, both Mazzulla and Tatum downplayed the severity of the injury. Mazzulla stated Tatum "just went to the back and got stretched, got some treatment," while Tatum admitted to feeling stiffness in his leg after exiting the game. He described the situation as a momentary assessment, noting that the Celtics had "a little out of reach" in the game’s context.#boston_celtics #jayson_tatum #philadelphia_76ers #joel_embiid #game_7
NBA Play-Offs: LeBron James Helps Lakers Secure Overtime Victory and 3-0 Series Lead LeBron James made a three-pointer to force overtime before the Los Angeles Lakers moved to the brink of a series victory in the NBA play-offs. The NBA's four-time Most Valuable Player levelled the score with 13 seconds left against the Houston Rockets and almost clinched victory as he hit the rim with a three-pointer on the buzzer. But the Lakers went on to win 112-108 in overtime to claim a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven first round of the play-offs. James, 41, again stepped up in the absence of the injured Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, claiming a team-high 29 points and 13 rebounds. Marcus Smart also recorded a double-double, scoring eight of his 21 points in overtime and adding a team-high 10 assists. "With two of our best players down, we've got to play desperate," said Smart. "We've got to be the most desperate team. That's how we've been playing, and that's how we're winning, right? The chemistry has been good, and you're starting to see guys' confidence go up because of that." An ankle sprain ruled out Houston's leading scorer Kevin Durant for the second time in the series. The Rockets also host game four on Sunday and must win to prevent the Lakers earning a sweep of the series and booking their place in the Western Conference semi-finals. Conference rivals San Antonio lead the Portland Trail Blazers 2-1 after fighting back to claim a 120-108 win on the road. Stephon Castle scored 33 points for the Spurs while rookie reserve Dylan Harper added career bests of 27 points and 10 rebounds. Victor Wembanyama was on the Spurs bench but could not play as this season's defensive player of the year remained in concussion protocol after suffering a head injury in game two on Tuesday.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #san_antonio_spurs #philadelphia_76ers #houston_rockets
NBA Playoff Predictions: Friday's Key Game 3s as Lakers, Celtics Seek Road Wins The 2026 NBA playoffs will continue Friday with a triple-header of pivotal Game 3s. The Boston Celtics face the Philadelphia 76ers on the road, the Houston Rockets return to Houston to take on the Los Angeles Lakers, and the San Antonio Spurs travel to Portland to challenge the Portland Trail Blazers. Each matchup carries critical implications for the series, with teams navigating unique challenges and opportunities. The 76ers vs. Celtics series, now tied at one game apiece, will see the Celtics attempt to reclaim homecourt advantage after a 32-point loss in Game 1. The Celtics struggled in Game 2, shooting 13 of 50 (26%) from beyond the arc, the fewest 3-pointers made by a team with 50 or more attempts in NBA playoff history. The 76ers, however, responded with a strong performance, as rookie VJ Edgecombe scored 30 points and the team shot 19 of 39 (48.7%) from 3-point range. The Celtics will be motivated to reverse their early series deficit, while the 76ers aim to maintain their momentum. The prediction for this game is Celtics -7.5. The Rockets vs. Lakers series faces a daunting challenge for the Rockets. After dropping the first two games despite Kevin Durant’s return, Houston now returns to Houston for Game 3 with Durant sidelined due to an ankle injury and Austin Reaves listed as questionable after an oblique injury. The Rockets’ offensive struggles are evident in their 39/29/72.7 shooting splits for the series. Historically, no team has ever overcome a 3-0 series deficit in the playoffs, and the Rockets’ lack of offensive creativity and reliance on Luke Kennard’s inconsistent scoring make a comeback highly improbable. The prediction for this game is Lakers +9.5. The Spurs vs.#boston_celtics #los_angeles_lakers #philadelphia_76ers #houston_rockets #nba_playoffs
Tyrese Maxey’s latest playoff outburst made improbable Game 2 win possible BOSTON — Tyrese Maxey’s clutch performance in the fourth quarter of Game 2 propelled the Philadelphia 76ers to a 111-97 victory, sending the first-round playoff series back to Philadelphia tied at one game apiece. The 25-year-old guard scored 12 of his 29 points in the final six minutes, including two critical three-pointers, to secure the win against the Boston Celtics. The result marked a dramatic turnaround for the 76ers, who had struggled in Game 1 and appeared to be outmatched in the series. Maxey’s final stretch of play began with a pivotal moment midway through the fourth quarter. After the Celtics cut the 76ers’ lead to two points, Maxey drained consecutive three-pointers from the top of the key. He then walked to the corner of the court, his steely expression signaling his determination to close the game. Boston’s coach, Joe Mazzulla, later acknowledged the intensity of the moment, noting how Maxey’s focus shifted from his rookie teammate VJ Edgecombe to the broader team effort. Edgecombe, who had already delivered a standout performance with 30 points in Game 1, had done his part to set up Maxey’s heroics. By forcing Boston’s defense to prioritize him, Edgecombe freed up Maxey to take over the final stages of the game. The 76ers’ rookie also played a key role in getting Paul George, the veteran wing, involved early in the fourth quarter. This strategic adjustment allowed Maxey to capitalize on the Celtics’ defensive rotations, leading to his 12-point surge in the final six minutes. Maxey’s performance was a continuation of his impressive playoff run. Earlier in the 2022 postseason, he had dazzled with a 38-point game, complementing stars Joel Embiid and James Harden.#boston_celtics #joe_mazzulla #philadelphia_76ers #tyrese_maxey #vj_edgecombe
OKC Thunder Secures Lottery Pick in 2026 NBA Draft via Clippers Trade The Oklahoma City Thunder have locked in a potential lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, thanks to the Los Angeles Clippers’ elimination by the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Play-In Tournament. The outcome of the Warriors’ upcoming game against the Phoenix Suns will determine whether the Thunder receive the No. 1 or No. 2 pick in June’s draft, with the team’s odds tied to the result of that matchup. The Thunder’s path to a top-tier selection stems from a 2019 trade with the Clippers, which granted them the right to swap picks in the 2026 draft. If the Warriors secure the No. 8 seed in the playoffs by defeating the Suns, the Thunder will have an 11th-best chance (2%) of landing the top pick. If the Warriors lose, the Thunder’s odds drop to 1.5% for the No. 2 pick. This swap positions the Thunder to compete for one of the most coveted selections in the draft, which is expected to feature high-profile prospects like Kansas’ Darryn Peterson, BYU’s AJ Dybantsa, and Duke’s Cameron Boozer. Beyond the Clippers trade, the Thunder also hold multiple first-round picks from prior deals. One of these is a top-four protected pick from the Philadelphia 76ers, acquired in a 2020 trade involving Terrance Ferguson, Danny Green, and Vincent Poirier. The 76ers’ pick, which was top-six protected in 2025, now carries top-four protection for 2026 and will convey this season since the 76ers are projected as the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Another first-round pick comes from the Utah Jazz, acquired in a 2021 trade for Derrick Favors. The Jazz’s 2024 pick, originally top-10 protected, now has top-eight protection for 2026.#los_angeles_clippers #oklahoma_city_thunder #phoenix_suns #philadelphia_76ers #golden_state_warriors
NBA Play-In Tournament: Live Updates from Wednesday's Matchups The NBA play-in tournament continued on Wednesday as four teams vied for a chance to secure a playoff berth. The night’s action featured two high-stakes matchups: an Eastern Conference clash between the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers, and a Western Conference showdown between the LA Clippers and Golden State Warriors. The outcomes of these games would determine which teams advance to face the second-seeded Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns, respectively, in the next round. In the Eastern Conference, the Magic and 76ers faced off in a critical game. The winner would face the Celtics in a potential first-round playoff matchup, while the loser would be forced to play the Charlotte Hornets on Friday for the No. 8 seed. The Hornets had already advanced by defeating the Miami Heat 127-126 in overtime on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Magic entered the game with a 45-37 record, matching the 76ers’ record despite the latter team winning the season series. The Magic had won five consecutive games before dropping their final regular-season contest against the Celtics, who had rested key players. The 76ers, meanwhile, had rebounded from a three-game losing streak with back-to-back victories to close the season. The Western Conference matchup between the Clippers and Warriors was equally significant. The game pitted two former NBA Finals MVPs—Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard—against each other for the first time in a play-in game, according to ESPN Research. Leonard, who averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game with 6.4 rebounds and 1.9 steals, had led the Warriors to a 3-1 series advantage over the Clippers during the regular season.#orlando_magic #philadelphia_76ers #golden_state_warriors #la_clippers #nba_play_in_tournament
