Knicks vs. Cavaliers Game 4: New York Eyes First NBA Finals Since 1999

The Cleveland Cavaliers have their backs against the wall, facing a daunting 3-0 deficit in the 2026 Eastern Conference Finals. On Monday night, the New York Knicks have a golden opportunity to clinch the series in Game 4 and secure their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.

🏀 Key Takeaways for Game 4

• Must-Win for Cleveland: No team in NBA history has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in a seven-game playoff series.

• Lineup Change: The Cavaliers are replacing Dean Wade with Max Strus in the starting lineup to spark their offense.

• Knicks' Dominance: All five Knicks starters scored in double digits in Game 3, extending a historic playoff win streak.

Game 3 Recap: Knicks Seize Commanding Lead

Despite returning home to Rocket Arena for Game 3, Cleveland couldn't secure a much-needed victory. New York pulled away with a decisive 121-108 win to take complete control of the series.

Cavaliers star guard Donovan Mitchell briefly went to the locker room in the second quarter. While he returned to the floor, he hasn't looked 100% throughout the series. Mitchell finished Game 3 with 23 points on 9-of-21 shooting. Evan Mobley led Cleveland with 24 points, while James Harden chipped in 19 points.

 

The Knicks, meanwhile, were propelled by their dynamic trio of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby, who combined for 73 of the team's 121 points. New York's balanced attack saw all five starters reach double figures, supplemented by Landry Shamet's 14 points off the bench.

Mikal Bridges: The Unsung Hero of New York's Playoff Run

While star point guard Jalen Brunson and center Karl-Anthony Towns have commanded the spotlight combining for 131 points, 45 rebounds, and 38 assists in the first three games against Cleveland Mikal Bridges has been the quiet force driving the Knicks' success.

Over his last 10 playoff games, Bridges is putting up incredibly efficient numbers:

• 16.8 Points Per Game

• 68.2% Field Goal Percentage

• 45.8% 3-Point Percentage

• 100% Free-Throw Percentage

Historic Milestone: Bridges is the first player in NBA playoff history to average at least 15 points per game while shooting over 60% from the field, 40% from three, and 100% from the free-throw line over any 10-game span.

Cavaliers Make Desperate Lineup Change

With their season on the line, the Cavaliers are shaking things up. The team is moving Max Strus into the starting five in place of Dean Wade. Strus has been a vital spark plug off the bench this postseason, shooting 36.3% from beyond the arc. Cleveland is hoping this lineup change will generate enough offensive firepower to secure their first win of the series in an elimination game.

How to Watch Game 4 & Betting Odds

Game 4 is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 p.m. ET at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. Fans can watch the game live on ESPN or stream it via ESPN Unlimited.

Heading into the matchup, the Knicks are favored to complete the sweep on the road. Here are the current Game 4 odds, courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook:

Betting Market	New York Knicks	Cleveland Cavaliers
Point Spread	-2.5	+2.5
Moneyline	-126	+108
Over/Under (Total)	-	218.5

Note: Down 0-3 in the series, the Cavaliers' odds to win the 2026 NBA Finals have plummeted to +20000, while the Knicks currently sit at +280.

What’s Next?

If the Cavaliers manage to stay alive, the series will head back to Madison Square Garden in New York for Game 5 on Wednesday.

If the Knicks complete the sweep, they will earn crucial rest days while awaiting the winner of the Western Conference Finals. The series between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder is currently tied at 2-2, setting the stage for a dramatic finish out West.

Thunder vs. Lakers 2026 NBA Western Conference Semifinals: Can LeBron James Finally Break the Curse?

The Oklahoma City Thunder haven’t just beaten the Los Angeles Lakers this season they’ve controlled the matchup from start to finish. But the playoffs are a different stage, and with LeBron James involved, nothing is ever that simple.

The reigning NBA champion Thunder enter the Western Conference semifinals as the team to beat. They posted a league-best 64 18 record and cruised through the first round with a commanding sweep, reinforcing their dominance on both ends of the floor.

The Lakers, meanwhile, arrive with more uncertainty. They defeated the Houston Rockets in six games, but the series exposed some flaws inconsistent shooting, turnover issues, and a roster still adjusting to life without Luka Dončić. With LeBron James and Austin Reaves back, Los Angeles has enough offensive firepower to compete, but questions remain about sustainability over a full series.

Still, history favors Oklahoma City. The Thunder have won five straight games against the Lakers, including a regular-season sweep. Even more concerning for Los Angeles: three of their five worst losses this season (by 25+ points) came against this Thunder team.

Past results don’t decide playoff series but they do set the tone. Here’s what will define this matchup.

Lakers Perimeter Offense vs. Thunder Elite Defense

Since the All-Star break, the Lakers ranked among the NBA’s top 10 offenses. The problem? They’re now facing the league’s best defense.

For Los Angeles, success hinges on the three-point line.

Oklahoma City’s defensive scheme often allows perimeter attempts, betting that opponents won’t convert efficiently enough. The Lakers don’t take a high volume of threes, but they are highly accurate when they do making this a critical swing factor.

Austin Reaves’ return is especially important. His ability to draw fouls and create off the dribble adds another dimension to the Lakers’ offense. Meanwhile, LeBron James must remain aggressive attacking the rim, particularly with Dončić still sidelined.

Marcus Smart’s role will also be key. He is far more effective as a corner three-point shooter than above the break, and the Lakers should position him accordingly when he’s off the ball.

On the Thunder side, Luguentz Dort one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders presents a major challenge. Normally tasked with guarding elite creators like Dončić, Dort’s assignment in this series could shift and become a deciding factor.

Luke Kennard has emerged as a valuable shooting option, but his impact depends on volume. His accuracy is elite the question is whether he can maintain aggression with a fuller offensive lineup.

With Dončić out, Rui Hachimura becomes a crucial scoring option, particularly in the midrange. The opportunities will be there for the Lakers execution is the real test.

Interior Battle: Thunder Rim Protection vs. Lakers Scoring

The Thunder’s biggest advantage may come inside.

With Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein anchoring the paint, Oklahoma City boasts one of the NBA’s most formidable interior defenses. Their rim protection alters shots, limits second-chance opportunities, and forces opponents into tougher perimeter looks.

The Lakers, however, are a paint-oriented team and that creates a difficult matchup.

Deandre Ayton remains a wild card. While he can dominate physically, inconsistency and limited touches have often held him back. Still, his presence matters. He gives the Lakers size and creates mismatches, especially when LeBron James attacks smaller defenders or draws Holmgren away from the rim.

Los Angeles will need production from Ayton, Jaxson Hayes, and Hachimura to generate points inside. The challenge? The Lakers don’t rely heavily on drives or offensive rebounding two areas where the Thunder excel defensively.

Finding efficient interior scoring against Oklahoma City won’t be easy but it’s essential.

The X-Factor: Can the Thunder Adjust Without Jalen Williams?

One looming question could shape the entire series: can the Thunder maintain their dominance without Jalen “J-Dub” Williams at full strength?

Williams has been a key piece of Oklahoma City’s two-way success, providing scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility. Any limitation in his role could open the door for the Lakers to exploit mismatches and slow the Thunder’s rhythm.

Final Outlook: Experience vs. Dominance

On paper, the Thunder are the better team deeper, more consistent, and defensively elite.

But playoff basketball isn’t played on paper.

LeBron James still represents one of the greatest postseason forces in NBA history. His ability to control tempo, create opportunities, and elevate teammates gives the Lakers a fighting chance  even against a dominant opponent.

If the Lakers can capitalize on perimeter opportunities and find just enough success inside, this series could be closer than expected.

If not, Oklahoma City’s dominance may continue.

2025 NBA Draft: Mavs Select Cooper Flagg at No. 1

Cooper Flagg, the highly anticipated rookie for the Dallas Mavericks, has yet to step onto the NBA court, but financial analysts are already envisioning a groundbreaking future for him that could reshape the financial landscape of basketball.

Recent estimates indicate that Flagg could amass nearly one billion dollars in total earnings by the age of 31, positioning him as a potential candidate to become the highest-earning player in NBA history at such a young age.

The Impact of Financial Trends on Flagg’s Earnings

This optimistic outlook stems from a unique convergence of financial trends within the NBA. With lucrative television rights deals and a rapidly increasing salary cap, rookie contracts are more substantial than ever. Flagg's initial contract with the Mavericks, as per the current collective bargaining agreement, is projected to exceed 50 million dollars.

The true financial windfall, however, is expected to come from his subsequent contracts. League insiders predict that the top stars will soon command annual salaries that could reach or even surpass 100 million dollars per season.

Endorsement Opportunities and Marketability

Endorsements further amplify this extraordinary financial scenario. Flagg's blend of on-court talent and marketable charisma has already drawn significant interest from major brands and global sponsors. Analysts believe he has the potential to surpass the endorsement earnings of NBA legends like LeBron James and Stephen Curry. The modern athlete's ability to harness social media and global branding could elevate Flagg into an elite tier of sports income.

Navigating the New Financial Landscape of the NBA

These forecasts underscore the unprecedented environment that elite NBA players are entering today. The surge in broadcast revenue, increased international visibility, and aggressive corporate partnerships are providing top talent with access to wealth levels once considered unattainable.

As Flagg continues to develop as both a player and a brand, his earnings trajectory could serve as a model for how basketball's future superstars navigate their careers and business ventures.

For Mavericks fans, the excitement surrounding Flagg extends beyond just basketball. The franchise is not only banking on his ability to transform their performance on the court but also on his potential to become a global ambassador whose influence and value reach far beyond the game.

If these projections hold true, Flagg may establish a new benchmark—not only for future NBA rookies but for all athletes aiming to optimize their athletic and financial potential.

While only time will reveal whether Flagg's career follows this promising path, one thing is certain: the financial prospects for the NBA's brightest stars have never been more expansive.

Hometown Celebrations: NBA Draft Watch Parties for Cooper Flagg

As Cooper Flagg prepares for the NBA Draft tonight at 8 PM ET on ESPN, the excitement is palpable in his hometown of Newport, Maine. The gym at Nokomis Regional High School will be filled with community members for a private gathering from 7-9 PM, hosted by New Balance, which recently signed Flagg to a sponsorship deal.

Additionally, Hamlin’s Marina, in collaboration with the Sebasticook Valley Chamber of Commerce, will host a free watch party open to all from 4-10 PM, featuring various food trucks and beverages from Somerset Pour House. ESPN's Marty Smith will be in attendance, adding to the excitement.

The Grove will also host an event from 6-10 PM, offering catered drinks and food from local vendors. Venue owner Kendra Hartsgrove mentioned that an ESPN crew has been preparing for live coverage throughout the week, highlighting the community's support for Flagg as he embarks on this significant milestone in his career.

Pacers vs. Thunder Game 7 Championship Prediction And Odds

The Indiana Pacers find themselves on the brink of capturing the 2024-25 NBA championship, with just one win needed in what promises to be the season's final game. Throughout the postseason, they have triumphed over three opponents and pushed a fourth to the edge. Yet, astonishingly, they have not once been favored to win the championship.

Despite their struggles early in the regular season, starting with a 10-15 record, the Pacers were never viewed as contenders. The Oklahoma City Thunder, who burst out of the gate, and the defending champion Boston Celtics, who swept the Pacers last year, contributed to this perception. Even during the Eastern Conference playoffs, the Pacers remained underdogs. As they prepared to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, they were still not seen as a serious threat.

A Series of Underdog Status

You would think that by the time the Finals arrived, perceptions would have shifted. However, the Pacers continued to be overlooked. They won Game 1 on the road but remained underdogs. After taking a 2-1 lead following Game 3, they still faced the same fate. Even with a seven-point lead entering the fourth quarter of Game 4, they were marginally considered underdogs, with the Thunder's odds at -108 compared to the Pacers' -106.

This consistent underdog status is rare in championship history. Typically, champions at least achieve favored status at some point during the playoffs. While there have been big underdog victories, such as the 2019 Raptors and the 2004 Pistons, those teams built substantial leads that forced bookmakers to reconsider. The 2015-16 Cavaliers might have seemed like a candidate for underdog status, but they began the season favored after a strong performance in the previous Finals. Reaching the final game without ever being the title favorite is almost unheard of.

The Pacers' Underdog Legacy

This underdog narrative feels fitting given the Pacers' remarkable postseason run. Their odds to win the Eastern Conference were as long as 30-to-1 before the playoffs, a rarity among finalists. In contrast, the Thunder entered the Finals as -700 favorites, matching the seventh-shortest odds in Finals history, reminiscent of the 2004 Los Angeles Lakers, who suffered a shocking upset against the Pistons. Now, the Pacers aim to replicate that historic feat.

They also have a chance to set a new record: Thursday's Game 6 victory marked their 10th playoff win as an underdog in 2025, tying them with the 2023 Heat for the record. However, they open Game 7 as 8.5-point underdogs on the road. A victory would not only secure their first championship but also establish a new record for the most underdog wins in a single postseason.

Analyzing the Matchup

On paper, the Pacers are justifiable underdogs. The Thunder boast a 10-2 home record this postseason, with an impressive +247 point differential. They still have MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a historic 68-win regular season backing them. However, if the postseason were determined solely on paper, the Pacers would have been eliminated weeks ago.

In a single-game scenario, a Game 7 presents a unique challenge. The atmosphere is tense, and nerves can play a significant role. The question arises: who will feel more pressure—the young, favored Thunder, who have faced several close losses this postseason, or the resilient Pacers, who have defied expectations with historic upsets?

The Game 7 Dynamics

As the series progresses to Game 7, both teams will have adapted to each other's strategies. The pace of the game often slows, and success frequently hinges on making tough shots. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can deliver in clutch moments, the Thunder have struggled when he is not supported by his teammates. Conversely, nearly every member of the Pacers' rotation possesses a unique skill set, making them versatile and difficult to defend. They have maintained their momentum throughout the postseason, and Game 7 should be no different.

Although the Pacers will begin Game 7 as underdogs, it may take a significant lead in the second half for them to finally be viewed as favorites. They have thrived under the weight of doubt throughout the postseason, finding strength in their underdog status. Sunday presents an opportunity for them to seize the spotlight and prove that being the underdog does not preclude them from hoisting the championship trophy.

Game 6 Recap and Game 7 Preview

In Game 6, the Indiana Pacers delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 108-91 as 5.5-point underdogs, forcing a decisive Game 7 in the 2025 NBA Finals. Remarkably, this victory marked their 10th outright win as underdogs this postseason.

Despite this achievement, the Thunder opened as 8.5-point favorites at BetMGM for Game 7, with a total set at 214.5—the lowest of the Finals. Oklahoma City entered the Finals as a substantial -700 favorite, while Indiana was a notable +500 underdog. Historically, only the 2004 Detroit Pistons have won a Finals series as underdogs with similar odds.

The Thunder also boasted the best against-the-spread record of any regular-season team in the last 35 years, finishing 55-23-4 ATS, but have struggled in the playoffs with a 10-12 ATS record. As they head into Game 7, the Thunder were previously a -2500 favorite when leading the series 3-2.

Sunday's matchup will mark the 20th Game 7 in NBA Finals history, setting the stage for an unforgettable conclusion to the season.

NBA Finals: Tyrese Haliburton Leads Pacers to Stunning Game 1 Comeback Against Thunder

In a breathtaking display of resilience, the Indiana Pacers captured Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday night, edging out the Oklahoma City Thunder 111-110 and taking a 1-0 lead in the championship series.

Facing a daunting 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter, the Pacers rallied dramatically, seizing their first lead with just 0.3 seconds remaining. Tyrese Haliburton delivered the decisive blow with a clutch pull-up jumper, securing the victory. With only 2 minutes and 52 seconds left on the clock, Indiana was down by nine but closed the game with an impressive 12-2 run.

Haliburton contributed significantly with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, while the Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put on a scoring clinic, netting 38 points despite the loss.

"Honestly, it was about hitting the reset button and focusing on each possession in the third quarter to chip away," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle reflected after the game.

For nearly the entire 48 minutes, the Thunder appeared poised to take the lead, bolstered by their relentless defense that forced 25 turnovers, including 19 in the first half. However, their offense struggled to capitalize on these opportunities, managing to score only 11 points off the turnovers.

Oklahoma City attempted 16 more shots than Indiana but struggled with efficiency, converting just 39.8% of their 98 attempts. Gilgeous-Alexander's impressive scoring was overshadowed by his shooting woes, as he made only 14 of his 30 attempts.

Before Haliburton’s game-winning shot, Gilgeous-Alexander had a chance to extend his team’s lead but missed a pull-up jumper that could have given the Thunder a three-point advantage.

Despite a subdued performance leading up to his clutch shot, Haliburton played a crucial role in the Pacers' balanced scoring effort. Pascal Siakam led the team with 19 points, with all five starters and six players overall contributing in double figures.

The Pacers' success from beyond the arc was pivotal, as they shot 18-of-39 from three-point range, an impressive 46.2%. Obi Toppin made a significant impact off the bench, sinking five three-pointers to help fuel the comeback.

"This journey is just beginning, and we need to stay focused on each other and the task at hand," Carlisle emphasized.

The teams will meet again for Game 2 on Sunday.

NBA Eastern Conference Finals: Knicks vs. Pacers Game 2 Prediction

As the Eastern Conference Finals heat up, the New York Knicks are set to face off against the Indiana Pacers in Game 2. Currently, the Knicks are favored by 6 points, with the over/under set at 225.5 points. This matchup promises to be an exciting clash as both teams vie for a crucial victory.

Game Information

• Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
• Time: 8 p.m. ET
• Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York
• Broadcast: TNT, truTV, and MAX

Betting Insights

• The Knicks and their opponents have combined to score over 225.5 points in 44 of 82 games this season.
• The Pacers have surpassed the 225.5 total in 54 of their 82 matchups this year.
• On average, the two teams score 233.2 points per game, exceeding the current over/under by 7.7 points.
• Opponents of both teams average 226.8 points per game, slightly above the 225.5 total.
• New York has won 71.2% of the 66 games in which they were favored this season, while Indiana has a 45.2% win rate as underdogs.
• The last four contests between the Knicks and Pacers have been evenly split, with both teams going 2-2 against the spread.

 

Recent Trends for the Knicks

• Over their last 10 games, the Knicks hold a 6-4 record against the spread and overall.
• In those games, they averaged 213.0 points, which is 12.5 points less than the current over/under.
• New York has an overall record of 39-41-2 against the spread this season.
• The Knicks have a solid home record, hitting the over in 23 of their 41 home games (56.1%).

Knicks Key Stats

Stat	Average	Rank
Points Scored	115.8	9
Points Allowed	111.7	9
Rebounds	42.6	24
Assists	27.5	11
Steals	8.2	12
Blocks	4	29

Knicks Leaders

• Karl-Anthony Towns: 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists
• Josh Hart: 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 5.9 assists
• Jalen Brunson: 26 points, 2.9 rebounds, 7.3 assists

Recent Trends for the Pacers

• The Pacers have been performing well, with an 8-2 record in their last 10 games, including a 7-3 mark against the spread.
• They have averaged 228.2 points in their last 10 games, slightly above the current total.
• Indiana has hit the over in 44 of their 82 games this season (53.7%).

Pacers Key Stats

Stat	Average	Rank
Points Scored	117.4	7
Points Allowed	115.1	17
Rebounds	41.8	27
Assists	29.2	3
Steals	8.5	8
Blocks	5.5	4

Pacers Leaders

• Tyrese Haliburton: 18.6 points, 9.2 assists
• Pascal Siakam: 20.2 points, 6.9 rebounds
• Myles Turner: 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds

Conclusion

As Game 2 approaches, both teams are eager to capitalize on their strengths and secure a vital win. With the Knicks aiming to leverage their home-court advantage and the Pacers looking to continue their strong performance, fans can expect an exhilarating matchup. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling game in the Eastern Conference Finals!

Lakers vs. Timberwolves: Game 4 Recap

In a gripping Game 4, the Lakers suffered a heartbreaking defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing 116-113 after blowing a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter. Despite a valiant effort in the second half, the Lakers now find themselves trailing the series 3-1.

Key Performers

LeBron James led the Lakers with an impressive stat line, finishing with 27 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, three steals, and three blocks. Luka Dončić was a standout for Minnesota, scoring 38 points and showcasing his shooting prowess with five three-pointers. Rui Hachimura contributed significantly as well, adding 23 points on 5-10 shooting from beyond the arc.

Game Highlights

The first quarter saw the Lakers take a slight lead, ending 32-28, but the Timberwolves closed the quarter strong. The second quarter featured LeBron's aggressive play, as he scored 12 of his 22 points from the free-throw line, helping the Lakers respond to Minnesota's scoring runs. The Timberwolves ended the half with a 12-3 run, leading 61-58 at halftime.

Third Quarter Surge

Los Angeles came out strong in the second half, launching an 11-0 run to regain the lead. The third quarter was dominated by a lineup featuring LeBron, Luka, and Hachimura, which outscored Minnesota 36-23, giving the Lakers a 94-84 advantage heading into the final frame.

Final Moments

The fourth quarter saw a back-and-forth battle, with Anthony Edwards leading the charge for the Wolves. Despite a late surge from Rui and Austin Reaves, the Lakers were unable to secure the win. A crucial three-pointer from Dorian Finney-Smith sealed the game for Minnesota, and a last-chance shot from Austin came up short.

Conclusion

The Lakers will need to regroup and find more offensive support from their role players as they prepare for Game 5 against the Timberwolves on Wednesday at 7:00 PM PT.

Los Angeles Lakers win inaugural NBA Cup

LeBron James recently secured another accolade in his illustrious career by clinching the MVP title in the inaugural In-Season Tournament (IST). Although it may not be the most distinguished MVP trophy he's earned, it is a notable addition to his impressive collection. Throughout the tournament, LeBron played a pivotal role in guiding the Lakers to victory, showcasing remarkable statistics. Across the first six IST games, he averaged 26.8 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.5 rebounds, displaying exceptional shooting percentages of 58.8% from the field and an astonishing 62.5% from beyond the arc. LeBron's standout performances in the knockout rounds solidified his MVP status. Notably, in a crucial game against the Suns, he took control in the fourth quarter, finishing with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, particularly shining against Kevin Durant.

The Lakers' decisive win over the Pelicans further highlighted LeBron's impact. In just 23 minutes of play, he contributed 30 points on 9-12 shooting, making all four of his three-point attempts and sinking all eight free throws, while also boasting an impressive plus-minus of +36. Despite facing early foul trouble in the Saturday final, LeBron managed to finish with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists on 10-21 shooting. While he may not have been the standout player of the night, his overall performance throughout the tournament unquestionably earned him the MVP honor. This marks LeBron's ninth MVP award in the NBA, adding to his four regular-season MVPs and four NBA Finals MVPs. While this particular trophy may not carry the same weight as some of his other achievements, it is worth noting that he now surpasses Michael Jordan in total MVP awards.

Lakers' Falls Short In Overtime Loss To Celtics

It happened seven games, in Milwaukee, on a night when the Lakers cooked up such a great performance that anything sort of felt possible. The pieces were there. The possibility existed. The Lakers were figuring it out if things could go just right. But here, back in Los Angeles, on Tuesday night, their performance against the Boston Celtics, was a reminder that the NBA doesn’t quite work that way. Sometimes, it’s a little uglier, a little messier to figure out. None of it made sense. Marcus Smart in gold sneakers, Russell Westbrook in green shoes, the Celtics blowing a 20-point lead only to see the Lakers cough up a 13-point advantage in the fourth quarter.

The Lakers slumped and slunk their way through the first 12 minutes against their biggest rival, telling their fans that any emotion they brought with them into the building wasn’t going to be needed. But a furious 18-0 run in the second half flipped the game totally on its head, putting the Lakers in front while the Celtics chased. But Davis missed two key free throws, the Lakers’ offense went ice cold in overtime and the Boston Celtics came all the way back to win 122-118 in overtime a classic game in the team’s regular-season history but a brutal finish considering the position the Lakers were in after coming all the way back. Davis had 37 points and 12 rebounds, James had 33 nine rebounds and nine assists and Westbrook had 20 points and 14 rebounds off the bench. But, led by Tatum’s 44, it wasn’t enough. The loss, like that win against the Bucks, showed the Lakers could credibly fight with the NBA’s best. But unlike the game in Milwaukee, the Lakers’ flaws were too evident early as the Celtics easily pushed ahead early. It seemed like the latest piece of information that would make the Lakers’ next move murky. Everything that’s happened this season up to and including their 27th game of the season Tuesday has been to make it clear whether this roster is worth investing into or not – and that 20-point early deficit joined some big chunks of the season, where that answer seemed like an obvious “No.” Injuries and consistency issues for James and Davis were enough to dampen even the most optimistic. Supporting cast growing pains could easily have been assigned to lack of talent as much as they could have to fit or role. And the obvious roster questions – they led to obvious issues. Critics of the Lakers’ guard-heavy roster this offseason said they were too small. Tuesday, unsurprisingly, they got beat-up on the glass and shot over on the perimeter. Critics also pointed to the roster imbalance – the necessity for all three of the team’s stars to play well because so much of the team’s available money was committed to the peak of the roster (leaving the base to be made up of players signed with roster exceptions). And for as much the Lakers’ win in Milwaukee could ease those concerns, they were back in the foreground again Tuesday with James and Davis giving the Lakers a lot and the supporting class scuffling to make an impact around them in the first half. But like so much with the Lakers this season, figuring out what would happen next was big mystery. At shootaround Tuesday morning, James said the game against the Celtics would be one of their “biggest tests.” “A lot of great teams in our league and they happen to be one of them,” James said. “That first game off a road trip is always tough so it’s good when you’ve got to be even more locked in with a team that you know is really good.” The Lakers, of course, got off to a slow start. The Celtics, fresh off a blowout loss to the Clippers the night before and ending a long roadtrip, played with an unmatched energy early. They scored on easy layups, opening things up from the three-point line where they quickly got hot. Jayson Tatum, who had struggled some over the Celtics’ last three games, started to just shoot over the defenders in front of him. But if it was predictable that the Lakers would open the game carrying some of the road still with them, it was probably as sure of a bet that the road would catch up with Boston, too. The Lakers defense slowly tightened after allowing 37 first-quarter points, absolutely smothering Boston for huge chunks of the second half as the Lakers turned a 20-point deficit into a 13-point lead in the fourth. But Tatum re-heated, pushing Boston closer and closer as the Celtics started their sprint to the finish. The Celtics closed to within two on a Marcus Smart triple and tied the game on a Tatum jumper after Davis’ misses – forcing overtime. By then, the Lakers tank was empty and any talk of them having figured it all out went silent.

Showtime Welcomes Former ESPN Reporter Rachel Nichols

Rachel Nichols will contribute to multiple programs and projects from Showtime Basketball across multiple platforms,” per the network. She also appeared on the video podcast All the Smoke With Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson to announce the move. Nichols covered the NBA for ESPN since joining the network in 2004, but she stirred controversy last year when private comments she made about former colleague Maria Taylor leaked, implying that Taylor, who is Black, only got to host ESPN’s NBA Finals coverage because the network was “feeling pressure about” their “crappy longtime record on diversity.” Nichols apologized, but was later removed from the network’s NBA coverage, with her daily news show The Jump being cancelled as well. (Taylor left ESPN soon after to join NBC Sports.) The veteran NBA reporter and host left ESPN in January after comments she had made in a private phone call were published in The New York Times, sparking controversy at the sports TV juggernaut.

In the conversation with Adam Mendelsohn, an adviser to Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James and James’ agent, Rich Paul, Nichols sought advice about fellow ESPN NBA reporter Maria Taylor being selected to host NBA Countdown, the channel’s key pre- and postgame program, during the NBA Finals. “If you need to give her more things to do because you are feeling pressure about your crappy longtime record on diversity – which, by the way, I know personally from the female side of it – like, go for it,” Nichols said. “Just find it somewhere else. You are not going to find it from me or taking my thing away. I just want them [ESPN] to go somewhere else it’s in my contract, by the way; this job is in my contract in writing.” The conversation took place amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, with Nichols and other ESPN talent were not working out of the channel’s studios. Nichols made the call from a hotel in the NBA “bubble” it had set up. It also happened in the wake of the protests tied to the murder of George Floyd, with many companies Disney included reacting to the racial reckoning it sparked. Unbeknownst to Nichols, an ESPN employee recorded her comments and shared them internally, before they ended up in the Times. Nichols subsequently apologized to Taylor, and ESPN chief Jimmy Pitaro sent employees a memo promising to do a “deep dive” on the company’s diversity and inclusion efforts. “We respect and acknowledge there are a variety of feelings about what happened and the actions we took,” Pitaro wrote in the memo of the Times story. “The details of what took place last year are confidential, nuanced and complicated personnel matters. But understand this we have a much better story than what you’ve seen this week.” Ultimately, Nichols was removed from ESPN’s NBA coverage, and her daily show The Jump was canceled. Taylor subsequently left ESPN for NBC Sports, where she contributes to its Olympics and NFL coverage. Nichols will address her departure from ESPN for the first time in an episode of Showtime Basketball’s video podcast All the Smoke With Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson being released Friday. And at Showtime, she will once again be able to produce content for basketball fans familiar with her work over the past 25 years. “We are delighted to welcome Rachel Nichols to the Showtime Basketball family,” said Brian Dailey, senior vp sports programming and content for Showtime Networks. “Rachel brings unmatched journalistic credibility, great familiarity with our roster and a work ethic that will take us to another level.”

LeBron James Agrees to a Two-Year Extension With LA Lakers

LeBron James has inked a two-year $97.1 Million USD contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers that includes a player option for the 2024-25 season. All thanks to a 15% trade kicker that is integrated into the deal, the four-time champion is officially the highest-paid player in NBA history as he’s earned a staggering $532 million USD in guaranteed money.

Despite the fact that James will be turning 38 in the middle of the 2022-2023 season, the perennial All-Star has shown zero signs of slowing down, and this investment on the Lakers’ behalf simply goes to show the supreme confidence that the organization has in him to be the franchise’s centerpiece. Last season, he was sidelined due to a handful of injuries that resulted in him only suiting up for 56 games. This was a big factor in the Lakers missing the playoffs, but he still managed to rack up the stat sheet with averages of 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists. Whether or not James can lead the storied franchise to another NBA Finals victory remains to be seen, but with a healthy roster and him being the astounding floor leader that he is, there’s always a shot.

Golden State Warriors Is The NBA 2022 Champions

The Golden State Warriors headed into TD Garden on Thursday night and beat the Boston Celtics 103-90, to win the 2022 NBA finals. Their Game 6 victory was a dominant performance in hostile territory highlighted by an early 21-0 run which effectively secured the Warriors their fourth championship in the last eight years. The contest had looked very different early on. The Celtics began the game by going on a 14-2 tear, and they briefly looked like they would force a decisive Game 7 in San Francisco. But the Warriors countered with a run of their own, eventually ending the first quarter with a five-point lead. Things would escalate from there.

The Warriors held Boston scoreless for the first two minutes of the second quarter as Golden State rained three-pointers down on their hapless opponents. By the time the blitz was over, the Warriors had put together a 21-0 streak, the biggest such run in the finals in 50 years. The Celtics, meanwhile, were forced to hope they had one more dramatic comeback in them. By halftime, the Celtics were down 15 points, a not insurmountable task given their track record of comebacks in these playoffs. The Warriors, however, refused to budge. A Stephen Curry three halfway through the third quarter gave them a 22-point lead that effectively ended the game and secured Curry the first finals MVP award of a career that will end with his enshrinement in the Hall of Fame. To Boston’s credit, they refused to lie down, even cutting down the Golden State lead to eight midway through the third quarter. They couldn’t get any closer however: the Celtics had dug themselves too deep a hole, too early, against too formidable an opponent. These finals were billed as a battle between youth and experience, and it’s safe to say that experience won out. Throughout the series, the Warriors capitalized on Boston turnovers – the Celtics committed 22 in Game 6 alone – and mental mistakes. “It’s part of a championship pedigree, our experience. We built this for 10-11 years,” said Curry after the game. “That means a lot when you get to this stage.” Even though Golden State fell behind 1-2 to start the series, they fought back to win three straight, two of them on the road, against a team that had not lost back-to-back games the entire postseason. Curry, who scored 34 in the deciding game, was brilliant for most of the series, a slight blip in Game 5 aside. His finals MVP was no lifetime achievement award: the turning point of the series came with Curry’s 43-point performance in Game 4. These were his finals. “Beginning of the season no one thought we would be here … it’s very surreal,” said Curry. It was easy to understand his joy: the Warriors finished with the worst record in the NBA just two seasons ago. Part of the reason for that slump were injuries to Curry and his long-time teammate Klay Thompson. “It’s crazy, I’m on Cloud 109 right now,” said Thompson, who missed most of the last two-and-a-half years through injury before returning to help his team to victory. “ It was dog days, a lot of tears shed ... You knew it was a possibility, but to see it in real time … It’s crazy.” The Warriors now have seven NBA titles, one more than the Chicago Bulls. Only the Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers (17 each) have more. This team are not the most accomplished Warriors roster to have won the title but, after a tough few years, they may be the happiest.

LIVE UPDATES: Warriors vs Celtics, Game 3 Odds and Prediction

As the series shifts to Boston, the Celtics shoot for a bounce-back win, while the Warriors aim to ride on the momentum of their Game 2 blowout. Golden State has been the better team for the lion's share of the series. The Warriors have out-scored the Celtics on the whole, and aside from the fourth quarter of Game 1, things have gone according to plan for Stephen Curry and company. Defense was at the forefront in Game 2, with the Celtics scoring only 89.8 points per 100 possessions. Golden State is holding Boston to 16.5 free throw attempts per game in the series, and the Warriors are averaging 11.5 steals per contest, generating fast break opportunities as a result. The Celtics are also shooting only 42.5 percent from two-point range in the first two games, and Boston was credited with only one field goal at the rim in Game 2.

From there, the Warriors are undeniable on offense, posting the No. 1 offensive efficiency mark in the 2022 NBA Playoffs. The Warriors have a 59.7 percent true shooting clip in the postseason, and Golden State is shooting 41.5 percent from beyond the arc against Boston. Curry is dynamic, averaging 31.5 points per game, converting 46 percent from three-point range in the series, and Golden State is the best passing team in the NBA, leading the league in assist rate during the regular season.

Here are several NBA odds and betting lines for Warriors vs. Celtics:

    Celtics vs. Warriors spread: Boston -3.5
    Celtics vs. Warriors over-under: 212 points
    Celtics vs. Warriors money line: Boston -160, Golden State +140
    Celtics vs. Warriors tickets: See tickets at StubHub
    BOS: The Celtics are 13-7 against the spread in playoff games
    GS: The Warriors are 10-8 against the spread in playoff games

NBA and Louis Vuitton Collab for a New Accessories Collection

Louis Vuitton‘s collaborative portfolio expanded into the hoops division once it solidified a partnership with the NBA in 2020. And since then, the French luxury house has teamed up with the pro basketball league on various initiatives including footwear, apparel, a mini hoops set and a trophy case for the champions, and now the duo has reconnected to introduce a fresh batch of leather goods.

 

Lined up in this assemblage is a backpack, keep-all, wallet and a smaller-sized duffle bag. Each piece comes luxuriously fashioned with a bold blue leather that’s adorned with tonal monogram patterns. Silhouettes of a basketball that bear the LV logo inside also grace each product and come styled with red and white accents to appropriately channel the aesthetic of the NBA logo. More contrast is also visible through the straps as they are fitted with solid black as well as the hardware which shows up with metallic gold exteriors. You can find the range releasing via Louis Vuitton on June 2, the first day of the 2022 NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics. Prices are $4.6K USD for the backpack leather keep-all for about $4.3K USD for the leather keep-all, $650 USD for the wallet and $1.7K USD for the travel bag.

New Balance KAWHI 2 Goosebumps Is Revealed

Whether or not Kawhi Leonard will see any playing time in the NBA postseason still remains to the be seen, but while he spends time away from the hardwood he’s ramping up his initiatives with New Balance for his signature line. Halloween is still several months away, but the two-time champion is getting a head start on the celebration with the unveiling of his KAWHI 2 “Goosebumps” colorway.

The mid-cut basketball sneakers are fashioned with vibrant accents that are often associated with the October 31st celebration. Bold green hits that are reminiscent of slime stand out the most as they dress up the collars, interior lining, tongues, New Balance branding on the lower heels, mountainous forefoot mold and the tongue branding that spells out “Kawhi” in Goosebumps-inspired font. The lateral heels sport dead tree graphics to further express its spooky aura and pumpkin orange notes poke out through the front and back parts of the midsoles as well as the heel stripes. If you’re interested in adding these to your rotation, note that they’ll be dropping on April 20 via New Balance and Foot Locker.

Boston Celtics Sends Kemba Walker to OKC Thunder

The Celtics are bringing Al Horford back, trading point guard Kemba Walker to Oklahoma City for the five-time All-Star on Friday in Brad Stevens' first major move since he moved from the Boston bench to the front office. Boston will also send the No. 16 overall draft pick and a 2025 second-rounder to the Thunder and receive 7-footer Moses Brown and a 2023 second-round pick in return. Oklahoma City now holds 19 first-round draft picks over the next seven years. Horford returns to Boston and gives the Celtics the frontcourt presence they've lacked since he left two seasons ago.

The 6-foot-9 was forward was a member of the NBA All-Defensive team with the Celtics in 2017-18 while also posting the best assist numbers of his career. Stevens coached Horford for three seasons and says he played a “critical role” while in Boston. "His ability to elevate teammates with his experience and leadership make for a great addition," Stevens said. "We also want to welcome Moses to Boston. He is a promising young player.” Walker joins a team that finished with the second-worst record in the West last season but showed potential with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the Thunder with 23.7 points per game, and Lu Dort, who averaged 14 points and was one of the league’s best defensive guards. Walker, 31, is guaranteed more than $73 million over the next two seasons. But after helping the Celtics reach the Eastern Conference finals in the NBA bubble last season the four-time All-Star he was limited by knee injuries to 43 games in 2021; he missed the last two games of the first-round playoff loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Walker's departure means Boston will rely more heavily on All-Stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown for scoring. Without further moves, it would also leave Marcus Smart and Payton Pritchard as the team's main options at point guard. But swapping his salary for Horford's will save the Celtics $9 million. “Kemba is a true professional and a great teammate and player,” Stevens said. “I want to thank him for his tremendous impact, and the positive contribution he’s made both to the Celtics and the city of Boston.” After playing his first nine seasons in Atlanta, Horford signed with Boston as a free agent in 2016 and led the team to the conference finals in his first two seasons. But he opted out after three seasons to go to Philadelphia, then the 76ers flipped him to the Thunder after one year. Horford, 35, averaged 14.2 points and 6.7 rebounds this season, but he played just 23 games before Oklahoma City shut him down in late March to take a look at younger players — including Brown. “Thank you to ... the entire Thunder organization for their professionalism during my time in Oklahoma City,” Horford tweeted. “While it was short, it was first class all the way and me and my family are extremely thankful and appreciative.” Brown, 21, was a first-team All-G-League selection this season, and the Thunder saw enough to call him up and award him a multiyear deal. The 7-footer averaged 8.6 points and 8.9 rebounds and tied a team record with 23 rebounds against the Celtics this season. “As soon as he got his opportunity, he really embraced it," Horford said during the team's exit interviews. "He took it by storm. Playing in this league is not easy, night in and night out to have to prepare, everything that it takes, and I felt like he was up for the challenge.”

Bulls’ Michael Jordan’s life foreshadowed modern day stars’ insane fame

Current Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr was a huge part of the Chicago Bulls dynasty in the 1990’s, as depicted in ESPN’s “The Last Dance” docu-series. Recently, the former Bulls guard opened up about one of the things he’s learned from watching the documentary. Kerr focused on Michael Jordan’s star power and how this prevented him from basically being able to live his life — something that Kerr believes has transcended to majority of the players in the NBA today.

“I think the thing you get a good sense of watching the documentary is how different Michael’s life was compared to the rest of us,” Kerr said of his time with the Bulls, via ESPN’s Nick Friedell. “Everybody else could at least go out, go enjoy themselves, get away from it. All you had to do was escape the hotel.

“But Michael just couldn’t go anywhere, and I think that’s really being captured well. So I imagine it’s similar in some regards to some of the stars today and how they feel being confined to their hotel rooms or to their homes.”

Last Sunday’s episodes showed how Jordan was a prisoner of his own hotel room. According to Kerr, this simply wasn’t the case for the rest of the players on the Bulls team at that time.

Times have changed, though, and with the advent of the internet and social media, it’s as if every player in the league is already experiencing the same type of confinement Jordan went through during the peak of his popularity, albeit in varying degrees.

‘NBA 2K21’ release date rumors: This young, fan-favorite from the Mavericks could star in the next game’s cover

The basketball star chosen to be on the cover of the new “NBA 2K” iteration will always be one of the most exciting aspects of the franchise. Choosing who gets to be the face of the game every year might not be an easy task, though, considering the NBA has the best players around the world.

‘NBA 2K21’ cover star: Who’s going to be the face of the game?

Even before 2K Games unveils the “NBA 2K21” cover, fans likely have their favorites already. And most basketball spectators and video game players might agree that the young Dallas Mavericks guard, Luka Doncic, could be one of the right picks.

At 21, Doncic is in his second year of playing in the NBA and has broken records previously held by other basketball greats such as Michael Jordan and LeBron James. The Slovenia native surpassed Jordan’s record last December after scoring at least 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists for each event in 18 consecutive games.

Earlier in 2019, Doncic moved passed James’ record and became the only teenage player to ever put out a 30-point triple-double in an NBA game. Before the regular season 2019-20 got postponed, he was averaging 28.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 8.7 assists. If on-court performance and level of consistency are some credentials to be chosen as the “NBA 2K21” cover star, Doncic has to be a frontrunner.

However, as mentioned, there are plenty of talented players in the NBA, both among veterans and youngsters. Some other fan-favorites who also deserve to be the face of “NBA 2K21” are Trae Young and Zion Williamson. While the latter arrived late in the season, he immediately proved the doubters why he was no. 1 pick of the New Orleans franchise in 2019.

‘NBA 2K21’ release date, Legend Edition cover: What to expect

If 2K Games decides to have Doncic, Young, or Williamson in the cover, they are likely to be in the “NBA 2K21” Standard Edition. The Legend Edition is usually reserved for retired players who have once been icons of the league. Many fans are rooting to have Kobe Bryant back as another way to pay tribute for the late Los Angeles Lakers star. But there is also a chance that Vince Carter could land in the Legend cover as season 2019-20 has been announced to be his final year in the league.

As for the release date of “NBA 2K21,” nothing is set in stone yet. While it is still likely for the game to be launched in September, as usual, fans should also hold out on a small chance it could be slightly delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum reveals the team he initially wanted to be drafted by

After just one season at Duke, Jayson Tatum announced that he would be entering the 2017 NBA Draft. In a move that some questioned, Boston Celtics president Danny Ainge traded the team’s No. 1 overall pick to the Philadelphia 76ers, hoping that Tatum would still be on the board at No. 3 overall  and he was.

Things have worked out well for both sides. However, as part of a recent appearance on the All The Smoke podcast with former players Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes, the young Celtics star revealed that he was eyeing another team.

As Jay King passes along, Tatum wasn’t sure if he would see a lot of playing time with the Celtics, who had just finished the 2016-17 campaign with the No. 1 record in the Eastern Conference (53-29). Instead of Beantown, the Missouri native had his eye on the Phoenix Suns:

Tatum has become a key member of the Celtics’ rotation, and his numbers have improved with each passing season. Now in his third campaign with Boston, he’s averaging 23.6 points on 44.8 percent shooting (39.8 percent from beyond the arc), 7.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.4 steals in 34.6 minutes per outing.

Like many other players around the NBA landscape, Tatum is doing his best to stay in shape during the hiatus brought about by coronavirus pandemic. As part of his appearance on the podcast, he noted that he just got a hoop and has been working out in his garage:

The NBA decided to suspend the 2019-20 regular season back in March due to ongoing concerns with the virus. At this point, it’s not clear when (or if) play will resume this year. Some officials around the league are hoping that games can be played at a later date.

The Celtics entered the hiatus with a 43-21 record.