LOS ANGELES, CA – MAY 19: LeBron James #23 and Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a break in the action against Golden State Warriors during the second half of an NBA Tournament Play-In game at Staples Center on May 19, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges
Month: May 2021
May 30, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) signs an autograph for a fan after a game against the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports 3 takeaways as the Nets silenced the Celtics in Game 4 by
Phoenix Suns coaches wanted point guard Chris Paul to sit out Game 4 against the Lakers. His response was nothing short of amazing. The next time Suns coaches considering asking Chris Paul to sit out a playoff game, they’ll think again. The star guard has been dealing with a shoulder problem since a hard fall
Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, Jae Crowder, Phoenix Suns. (Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) Julio Jones rumors: Falcons might take even less than first-round pick by Brad Berreman Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis’ status for Game 5 vs. the Phoenix Suns is in jeopardy. After being adamant about playing in Game 4 on
2:55 AM ET The LA Clippers arrived to Dallas down 0-2 with their future clouded in uncertainty but left with home-court advantage and momentum thanks to Kawhi Leonard and Paul George playing the relentless style they envisioned when they joined forces. For the second straight game, Leonard and George overwhelmed Luka Doncic and the Dallas
NBA on TNT analyst Charles Barkley thinks the Mavericks are dead in the water against the Clippers, predicting an LA rout to finish the series. The Clippers looked in trouble when the Mavericks took a 2-0 series lead to open the NBA playoffs in Los Angeles. Now it’s the Mavericks who look vulnerable with Kawhi
May 20, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook (4) before the game against the Indiana Pacers at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports Mets give depressing update after Noah Syndergaard rehab start ends in disaster by Josh Hill WNBA Shootaround: Jonquel Jones for MVP, Connecticut Sun, injuries
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers. (Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) The Knicks absolutely need to start Derrick Rose in Game 3 by Brad Berreman Did the Cowboys try to trade Jaylon Smith during the NFL Draft? by Josh Hill Joel Embiid celebrated his and-1 hilariously in front of the Philadelphia 76ers home crowd. En route to
5:21 PM ET LOS ANGELES — Anthony Davis missed the second half of the Lakers‘ 100-92 loss to the Suns on Sunday with a strained left groin. Davis missed a layup inside the final minute of the second quarter and collapsed to the floor after landing. He was slow to get up, clutching at his
Joel Embiid’s dominant regular season performance has continued into the playoffs, as he just set a new career-high in postseason points. After a disappointing 2019-20 season for the Philadelphia 76ers, the team bounced back in a big way this year in large part to the dominance of franchise centre Joel Embiid. The Cameroonian big man
10:27 PM ET A fan at TD Garden for Game 4 of the Brooklyn Nets and Boston Celtics first-round series appeared to throw a water bottle at the head of Nets guard Kyrie Irving. The bottle missed Irving, who was walking toward the tunnel following the Nets’ 141-126 win on Sunday night. “You’re seeing a
The Portland Trail Blazers stormed past the Denver Nuggets in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series thanks to Norman Powell’s big night. After giving home-court advantage right back to the Denver Nuggets with a demoralizing Game 3 loss at the Moda Center, the Portland Trail Blazers badly needed to bounce back in Game 4.
Collin Sexton trade rumors are starting to pick up as the Cleveland Cavaliers consider the future. There’s no actual bubble for the NBA Playoffs this year, but there’s always been one that separates the contenders from the pretenders. For the Cleveland Cavaliers, they’ve once again been banished to the outskirts of basketball relevancy following the
1:53 PM ET Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic is expected to play Sunday against the LA Clippers in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series despite a strained neck, a source told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Doncic is officially listed as questionable for the game, but Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said Saturday that he thought Doncic
Mavericks guard Luka Doncic. (Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports) If Mavericks players don’t step up to help Luka Doncic, Dallas will lose the early control they grasped in the NBA Playoff series with the Clippers. They might have gone into the playoffs as a No. 5 seed going against a No. 4, but the Mavericks were
Julius Randle, New York Knicks. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) Steelers wide receiver wants Julio Jones to join him in Pittsburgh by Rucker Haringey Former NFL quarterback on Tua Tagovailoa not knowing playbook: ‘That should never, ever happen’ by John Buhler Julius Randle’s poor shooting is a big reason why the New York Knicks trail
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports The New York Knicks have not played well in the 2021 NBA Playoffs and are facing a crucial Game 4 on the road. Here are three keys to getting back on track. Down 2-1 in their first-round playoff series, the New York Knicks are facing a crucial Game 4
2:19 AM ET Mike Conley still can’t quite believe the way the basketball stars have aligned. After spending 12 seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, the veteran Utah Jazz guard is still adjusting to the fact that his new team is facing his old team in an emotional first-round playoff series. But after scoring 27 points,
BOSTON, MA – MAY 28: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket past Blake Griffin #2 of the Brooklyn Nets during Game Three of the Eastern Conference first round series at TD Garden on May 28, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading
8:21 PM ET It’s not unusual for Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone to tell it like it is and he put it quite bluntly again after a 115-95 loss in Game 4 to the Portland Trail Blazers. “Our starters were awful,” he said. “I thought we had some guys that were tentative, that looked a
Entering the season, there were high hopes for the Indiana Pacers following an impressive bubble showing and eruption from T.J. Warren. However, the team finished at a disappointing 34-38 mark, finishing at ninth in the Eastern Conference and getting eliminated in the play-in tournament. A myriad of factors played into Indiana’s rough season, but no
The Boston Celtics need Kemba Walker to step up big-time for them to stay alive in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Even though the Boston Celtics took Game 3 at home vs. the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night, this team needs its point guard Kemba Walker to step up in a big way, beginning with Game 4
NBA refs made up a whole new kind of technical foul during Game 3 between the Dallas Mavericks and LA Clippers after Willie Cauley-Stein shoved Terance Mann’s face. With the Dallas Mavericks up 2-0 in their first-round series against the LA Clippers, Game 3 was always going to be a chippy affair. But late in
Alex Rodriguez. (Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) UFC Vegas 27: Who is Chris “Huggy Bear” Barnett? by Zain Bando New Minnesota Timberwolves owner and former MLB star Alex Rodriguez is getting into makeup for men. Alex Rodriguez is a man of the people, especially after launching his own makeup line for men. Since
1:39 PM ET ESPN News Services Mark Eaton, the 7-foot-4 shot-blocking king who twice was the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year during his career with the Utah Jazz, has died, the team said Saturday. He was 64. The Jazz said police said Eaton was found lying in the road around 8:30 p.m. Friday night
ATLANTA, GA – MAY 28: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks shoots in the second half against the Atlanta Hawks during game three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals at State Farm Arena on May 28, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this
May 24, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Miami Heat forward Trevor Ariza (8) pushes off of Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) as he gets up after fouling him in the third quarter during game two in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports Former NBA
The Milwaukee Bucks demolished the Miami Heat in Game 2 of their first-round series in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Here are three unavoidable takeaways from the blowout. Game 1 of the Milwaukee Bucks‘ first-round series against the Miami Heat was less than encouraging for the home team. Despite having title aspirations, the Bucks needed overtime
1:16 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN BOSTON — Every one of the 4,789 fans who entered TD Garden on Friday night came ready to boo Kyrie Irving until their voices were hoarse. But after Boston came away with a stunning 122-115 victory over the Brooklyn Nets in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series, those same
After parting with Wendell Carter Jr. and sacrificing two top-four protected first-round picks to acquire Nikola Vucevic at the trade deadline, the Chicago Bulls proceeded to go 12-17, failing to finish in the top-10 in the Eastern Conference. For his part, Vucevic played well. In 26 games with the Bulls, the two-time All-Star averaged 21.5
The contentious relationship between Kyrie Irving and Boston Celtics fans didn’t get any better on Friday as fans rained down boos on the Brooklyn Nets guard. There was no question Kyrie Irving’s reception at TD Garden for Game 3 between the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets would be less-than-friendly. Boston fans and the former Celtic
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images It appears the Miami Heat don’t have what it takes to repeat as Eastern Conference champions after a great run in last year’s bubble. The Miami Heat have officially run out of gas. Thursday night saw the Heat host the Milwaukee Bucks in a must-win Game 3. The Heat responded
MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 27: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks goes up for a layup against the Miami Heat during the first quarter in Game Three of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at American Airlines Arena on May 27, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that,
5:27 PM ET Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook did not practice Friday and is being listed as questionable for Game 3 of their series against the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. Westbrook rolled his ankle with 10 minutes in the fourth quarter of the Wizards’ 120-95 Game 2 loss in Philadelphia on Wednesday night and did
Donte DiVincenzo, Milwaukee Bucks. (Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports) How to watch NBA Playoffs: What channel is Celtics vs. Nets Game 3 on? by Steven Kubitza The Milwaukee Bucks get the worst news possible regarding the health of Donte DiVincenzo. Even if the Milwaukee Bucks should cakewalk to the Eastern Conference Semifinals with a commanding
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – MAY 23: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers is helped up by assistant coach Jason Kidd during the second half of Game One of the Western Conference first-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns at Phoenix Suns Arena on May 23, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports Memorial Day 2021: Is Chipotle open? by Natalie Abele Ja Morant tried to dunk over Rudy Gobert. It did not end well. Ja Morant may be on his Grizzly, but Rudy Gobert is on a collision course with his third Defensive Player of the Year award, and he wasn’t
The Utah Jazz have banned three fans indefinitely for reportedly heckling the family of Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant. The return of fans for the 2021 NBA Playoffs have been universally lauded, but things turned ugly all across the league on Wednesday night. From a Philadelphia 76ers fan dumping popcorn on Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook
7:00 AM ET NBA Insiders The 2021 NBA playoffs are less than one week old, but we’ve already seen some epic superstar performances, upsets brewing and plenty of fans back in the stands. Can Luka Doncic and the Mavericks send the LA Clippers home early? Are the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks headed for
Welcome back to Basketball Insiders’ Now What? Series. Previously, we went over the slowly rebuilding Cleveland Cavaliers. Today we’re focusing on the young, energetic, and, for some reason, stagnant Pelicans. Two years ago, it seemed New Orleans had the ideal start on their rebuild. They had their face of the future, his second-in-command, their supporting
May 27, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates scoring a basket in the third quarter against the Phoenix Suns in game three in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports Richard Jefferson shares video trolling former teammate LeBron
Devin Booker was ejected late in Game 3 of the Phoenix Suns’ loss to the Los Angeles Lakers for a hard foul on Dennis Schroder that Anthony Davis called “dirty.” Game 3 was not a good night for Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns. After his Suns trailed for most of the night, put up
Down the stretch of the Los Angeles Lakers’ Game 3 win over the Phoenix Suns, fans at Staples Center started chanting for Kobe Bryant. The Los Angeles Lakers may be the defending NBA champions, but Game 3’s win over the Phoenix Suns actually marked the team’s first playoff win at the Staples Center since 2013.
2:45 AM ET LOS ANGELES — By now, Phoenix Suns head coach Monty Williams knows what’s going on with his star point guard Chris Paul by the look on his face. There’s a look Paul gets when he’s locked in — something between completely-in-control and about-to-jump-into-any-fray — and then there’s the look he had on
Nobody is going to outwork Jimmy Butler and his Miami Heat. But this time around, that just may not be enough. Every NBA player wants to win a championship, but few are more overt about how badly they want to do so than the Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler. He is almost theatrical in how he
Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports Down 0-2 after losing the first two games at home, these three Los Angeles Clippers must step up as the series moves to Dallas. The Los Angeles Clippers have high expectations, to the point rest for their top two players during the regular season takes priority with an eye
This week on The Long Two: Early returns on Devin Booker, Trae Young, and Ja Morant in the playoffs. Plus, how Luka Dončić is picking the Clippers apart. NBA players establish reputations over hundreds, if not thousands, of regular-season repetitions, but the playoffs are where those reputations are stress-tested. We may have a good idea
7:27 PM ET The three fans banned indefinitely by the Utah Jazz made vulgar and racially offensive comments to Ja Morant’s parents, the father of the Memphis Grizzlies star guard told ESPN. A statement from the Jazz cited one “verbal altercation” that occurred during Utah’s series-tying 141-129 victory at Vivint Arena on Wednesday night, but
In only two first-round playoff games, Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young has already become public enemy No. 1 for New York Knicks fans. There is no love lost between Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young and New York Knicks fans. For the first time in years, Atlanta and New York are not just back
Bubbleball, the new book from Washington Post NBA writer Ben Golliver, takes you inside last year’s NBA bubble and offers an unprecedented look at an unprecedented season. The 2019-20 NBA season was the longest and strangest in league history. Interrupted by a months-long hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it eventually concluded up at Disney
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MAY 18: Edmond Sumner #5 of the Indiana Pacers makes a basket at the end of the first quarter against the Charlotte Hornets in the 2021 NBA Play-In Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on May 18, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and
The Indiana Pacers wiped the floor with the Charlotte Hornets in the first play-in game before the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Here are the three biggest takeaways. The 2021 NBA Playoffs are nearly here, but before they begin, the league is giving four teams in each conference their shot at filling the final two playoff-spots for
1:19 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN The New York Knicks say they have banned a fan who spit on Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young on Wednesday night during Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. The Knicks released a statement on the matter on Thursday afternoon. “We investigated the matter and determined that this patron, who
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 26: Nearly 15,000 fans filled the arena tonight to watch the game between the New York Knicks and the Atlanta Hawks during game two of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals at Madison Square Garden on May 26, 2021 in New York City.The New York Knicks defeated the Atlanta Hawks 101-92.
The Houston Rockets did not even clinch a spot, but they are the biggest losers of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. Just last year, the Houston Rockets made it to the Western Conference Semifinals, where they were eliminated by the eventual NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers in five games. With a new regime, the Rocket underwent
2:41 AM ET Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant cut toward the basket, caught the pass, cocked the ball back in his right hand and soared to the rim early in the second quarter. Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert met Morant at the summit and stuffed the dunk attempt, a spectacular block by a big
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – JANUARY 25: General view of the Minnesota Timberwolves logo shown on game shorts in a NBA game against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on January 25, 2019 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this
The Golden State Warriors had a meeting with veteran forward Draymond Green to address the elephant in the room: His scoring, or lack thereof. The Golden State Warriors need more from Draymond Green. The veteran has been key to their success over the years, but in 2020-21, a particular deficiency in his game became a
Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) 3 offseason moves the Cleveland Cavaliers need to make by Brad Berreman Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins will do his best to help Team Canada to qualify for the 2020 Olympic Games this summer. With the Golden State Warriors‘ 2020-21 regular season firmly in
9:33 PM ET Washington Wizards guard Russell Westbrook suffered a right ankle injury and left the floor limping in the fourth quarter of Wednesday night’s playoff game at Philadelphia. Westbrook stepped on 76ers guard Furkan Korkmaz‘s foot and rolled the ankle with 10:28 remaining and the Wizards down 17 points in Game 2 of the
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 25: Willie Cauley-Stein #33 of the Dallas Mavericks scores on a dunk past Nicolas Batum #33 and Paul George #13 of the LA Clippers in the third quarter during game two of the Western Conference first round series at Staples Center on May 25, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 22: Head coach Brad Stevens of the Boston Celtics looks on against the Brooklyn Nets in Game One of the First Round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center at Barclays Center on May 22, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees
6:46 AM ET TAJ GIBSON HAS heard all the questions before. When Tom Thibodeau takes a job, Gibson knows what’s coming. And when Thibodeau was named coach of the New York Knicks last year, Gibson fielded all those regular questions — including those from Knicks forward Julius Randle. There’s an internal script that plays out
Welcome back to Basketball Insiders’ Now What? Series. Previously, we went over the slowly rebuilding Cleveland Cavaliers. Today we’re focusing on the young, energetic, and, for some reason, stagnant Pelicans. Two years ago, it seemed New Orleans had the ideal start on their rebuild. They had their face of the future, his second-in-command, their supporting
Feb 20, 2021; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green, left, argues with referee Marc Davis (8) as Charlotte Hornets forward P.J. Washington looks on during the second half at Spectrum Center. The Charlotte Hornets won 102-100. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports Colts running back Nyheim Hines impressed by Carson Wentz’s
Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets. (Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports) Here’s everything Aaron Rodgers said about the Packers during Kenny Mayne interview by Josh Hill Nikola Jokic went to bat for the awful officials in Game 2 of the Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets first-round playoff series. In between all the whistles by the
CJ McCollum, Portland Trail Blazers. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) How to watch NBA Playoffs: What channel is Clippers vs. Mavericks Game 2 on? by Steven Kubitza 3 offseason moves the Cleveland Cavaliers need to make by Brad Berreman Facundo Campazzo flopped and CJ McCollum was assessed a Flagrant 1 because of it. In a
2:12 AM ET For as long as they have shared basketball rights — and hearts — in Los Angeles, there have been remarkably few playoff matchups between the Lakers and Clippers over the years. Like zero, to be precise. Fifteen years ago, the Lakers were one win away from creating the first “Hallway Series” at
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 22: Blake Griffin #2 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts against the Boston Celtics in Game One of the First Round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center at Barclays Center on May 22, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA – AUGUST 23: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Are the NBA Playoffs on Hulu? by Scott Rogust The National League MVP candidate no one is talking about by Brad Berreman Luka Doncic tried to get under Patrick Beverley’s skin. Even though it probably
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA – AUGUST 17: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Noah Syndergaard leaves Mets rehab start early under mysterious circumstances by Mark Powell The Dallas Mavericks surely need more out of Kristaps Porzingis if they’re to finish their upset of the Los Angeles Clippers. This
9:46 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Brooklyn Nets forward Jeff Green both left with injuries Tuesday night in Game 2 of the first-round series between the two teams. Tatum exited the game with 8 minutes, 48 seconds to go in the third quarter when he was accidentally poked in the
If it still hasn’t sunk in just yet, it bears repeating: the New York Knicks are making their first trip to the NBA Playoffs since 2012-13. Naturally, it’s understandable that most Knicks-centered articles are examining their ceiling this season. Alas, according to Kanye West, the present is the past – so, like Yeezy, we’re looking
Donovan Mitchell was less-than-thrilled about not playing for the Utah Jazz in Game 1 of their Western Conference Playoffs series vs. the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday. The Utah Jazz medical staff holding out star shooting guard Donovan Mitchell in Game 1’s playoff game vs. the Memphis Grizzlies was a controversial and ill-advised decision. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Tim MacMahon
May 22, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (22) makes the game winning basket over Miami Heat forward Duncan Robinson (55) with 0.5 seconds to play in overtime of game one in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports NHL world reacts
As the Cleveland Cavaliers continue to try to build, these three players probably won’t be back next season. The post-LeBron James Era, Part 2, has been a rebuilding process for the Cleveland Cavaliers. This year’s 22-50 finish put them at 60-159 over the last three seasons. Another young player will be added to the mix
David Richard-USA TODAY Sports As the Cleveland Cavaliers continue to build, here are three offseason moves they need to make. The Cleveland Cavaliers had another tough season this year, with a 22-50 record. But on the bright side, there is some young talent in place and another high draft pick in this year’s draft will
8:00 AM ET BOBAN MARJANOVIC is singing. Just a minute ago, Boban was talking about growing up in Serbia and being 7-foot-4 and playing for the Dallas Mavericks, but now, he is warbling, in thickly accented English, a Vanessa Carlton song with the joy and energy of a devoted tween. “I’d walk a thousand MILES
Late in Game 1 between the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks, Lou Williams gave Trae Young the perfect advice on what to do before his game-winning dagger. The Atlanta Hawks lineup doesn’t have much collective playoff experience. The franchise hasn’t gone to the postseason since 2017 and four of the team’s starters had never
12:02 AM ET On the eve of the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, the NBA’s social justice coalition released a statement Monday night calling on the U.S. Senate to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act as a way to honor the memory of Floyd and “others who have been victims of police
Former NBA guard Jeremy Lin. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Blazers vs Nuggets NBA live stream reddit for NBA Playoffs Game 2 by Scott Rogust Former Knicks and Raptors guard Jeremy Lin says he’s not retiring yet, keeping his options open for next season after a year in the G League. Jeremy Lin isn’t done with
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MAY 18: LaMelo Ball #2 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts after a turnover against the Indiana during the 2021 NBA Play-In Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on May 18, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MAY 18: Domantas Sabonis #11 of the Indiana Pacers and Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets battle for a loose ball in the 2021 NBA Play-In Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on May 18, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or
8:08 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson was named the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year on Monday night, edging out teammate Joe Ingles and New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose for the award. “For me, it was tough,” Clarkson said in an interview on TNT’s “Inside The NBA.” “My first couple
If it still hasn’t sunk in just yet, it bears repeating: the New York Knicks are making their first trip to the NBA Playoffs since 2012-13. Naturally, it’s understandable that most Knicks-centered articles are examining their ceiling this season. Alas, according to Kanye West, the present is the past – so, like Yeezy, we’re looking
Which bottom-four playoff team in the West has the best chance of making a Cinderella conference finals run? The West, as always, is a certified Thunderdome. Emerging as the conference’s representative in the Finals will be like plowing through a 10-acre field of barbed wire. Some legit title contenders will fall early and perhaps the
May 23, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James reacts as he walks off the court in the closing seconds of the game against the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports The Lakers need some key
Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images Bellator 258: Patricky Pitbull praises Scott Coker for better fighter pay, treatment by Thomas Albano NBA rumors: T.J. Warren requested trade after Pacers hired Nate Bjorkgren by John Buhler Brooklyn Nets star James Harden recently suffered a setback with his hamstring injury, but he’s grinding to make sure he’s ready
Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images The Brooklyn Nets remain one of the favorites to win the 2021 NBA championship for several clear reasons. The Brooklyn Nets enter the final week of the regular season just trying to get healthy. James Harden is expected back at some point as the team looks to hold onto the
11:14 AM ET Brian Windhorst Close ESPN Senior Writer ESPN.com NBA writer since 2010 Covered Cleveland Cavs for seven years Author of two books Tim MacMahon Close ESPN Staff Writer Joined ESPNDallas.com in September 2009 Covers the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks Appears regularly on ESPN Dallas 103.3 FM Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell was
If it still hasn’t sunk in just yet, it bears repeating: the New York Knicks are making their first trip to the NBA Playoffs since 2012-13. Naturally, it’s understandable that most Knicks-centered articles are examining their ceiling this season. Alas, according to Kanye West, the present is the past – so, like Yeezy, we’re looking
May 23, 2021; New York, New York, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) gestures during the second half in game one in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Seth Wenig/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports 3 players who need to step up and
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MAY 18: Jayson Tatum #0 and Kemba Walker #8 of the Boston Celtics react during the second half of a game in the play-in tournament against the Washington Wizards at TD Garden on May 18, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 15: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets dribbles during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at Barclays Center on May 15, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User
1:55 AM ET The big stage and bright lights of the 2021 NBA playoffs didn’t prove to be too much for several young stars making their playoff debuts Sunday, as they did everything from hitting game-winning shots to setting franchise records. Using data from the ESPN Stats & Information group, here’s an All-Star team of
Lakers foward LeBron James. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) Here’s the official poster for Dustin Poirier vs. Conor McGregor 3 (Photo) by Zain Bando NBA fans did not buy it when LeBron James appeared to hurt his shoulder as the Los Angeles Lakers took on the Phoenix Suns in the NBA Playoffs. When NBA fans
4:40 PM ET Chris Paul returned in the second quarter of the Phoenix Suns‘ first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday after suffering a right shoulder contusion. With the Suns up 11 in the second quarter, LeBron James leaped over Paul for an offensive rebound and putback layup, drawing L.A. within 38-29 with
Paul George, LA Clippers, Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Bruno Silva demolishes Victor Rodriguez with first-round knockout at UFC Vegas 27 (Video) by Curtis Calhoun When “Pandemic P” is already trending on Twitter after one half of LA Clippers playoff basketball, you know Paul George is having himself a bad time. Twitter
The Dallas Mavericks notch an upset victory over the Los Angeles Clippers with Game 1 victory on Saturday. The Los Angeles Clippers have been the subject of ridicule this past week after being accused of tanking the end of the season to avoid playing the rival Lakers in the NBA Playoffs. If that were actually
The Washington Wizards clinched the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with a dominant blowout victory over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday. Here are three takeaways from the game. Thursday night was a must-win situation for both the Washington Wizards and Indiana Pacers. Whoever secured the victory would clinch the 8-seed in the Eastern
Wizards guard Russell Westbrook celebrated Washington’s play-in game victory over the Pacers by giving his shoes to a young fan before it was even finished. One lucky fan at the Wizards play-in game against the Pacers had a great night. First, he was on hand as Washington stormed their way into the playoffs with an
1:04 PM ET The NBA is eager to restart the conversation with its teams and the players’ association about adding a midseason tournament to the league’s calendar, sources told ESPN. Commissioner Adam Silver, a proponent of the idea, has gained optimism that the success of the play-in tournament could drive momentum to reengage teams on
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 22: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics fouls Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets in the second quarter during Game One of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series on May 22, 2021 at Barclays Center in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports The Utah Jazz are set to clinch one of the top-two seeds in the Western Conference, but there are five particular reasons why they can win the NBA title this summer. The NBA is entering the final week of the regular season, and it is carrying an NFL
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Spurs have had some incredible offensive performances under Gregg Popovich but nothing tops last night’s 146-125 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. At an offensive rating of 142.3 points
12:51 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Ever since the Brooklyn Nets put together their Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden four months ago, the basketball world has waited to see what these Nets would look like in the playoffs. While it took a bit for the show to get
May 21, 2021; San Francisco, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) hugs Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) after the game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Bellator 259: Leandro Higo edges Darrion Caldwell in rematch by Adam Stocker Bellator 259: Cris Cyborg stops Leslie Smith again in closing
7:25 PM ET Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo is the focal point of the Bucks‘ attack, but Khris Middleton was the closer for Milwaukee on Saturday in Game 1 of their first-round series against the Miami Heat. Middleton drained a contested, game-winning fadeaway jumper with less than a second remaining in overtime, lifting the Bucks to
Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports) Javier Martinez could be a boxing diamond in the rough by Jeremy Herriges Klay Thompson has an encouraging message to downtrodden Golden State Warriors fans. After seeing his Golden State Warriors get eliminated from NBA Playoffs on Friday night during their play-in tournament
The Golden State Warriors lost both play-in matchups to miss the playoffs. Where should they go from here? Thanks to untimely turnovers all game and a lack of support around their superstar Steph Curry, the Warriors failed to win their final play-in game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Curry’s contract status remains just one offseason question
Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks. (Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports) Tyler Seguin still has a challenging road ahead by Mark Carman Celtics fans aim NSFW chant at Kyrie Irving ahead of Nets playoff matchup (Video) by Braulio Perez NBA Twitter went all caps crazy when Dillon Brooks put an exclamation point on the Memphis Grizzlies’ hot start
NBA fans saw an up-and-down battle Wednesday night that ultimately ended with the Memphis Grizzlies taking care of business and eliminating the San Antonio Spurs. Wednesday night’s game between the Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs got off to an ugly start. The Spurs fell behind by 20 points early, but the comeback was on
12:50 PM ET After a second surgery in 28 months to repair his right quadriceps tendon, Miami Heat guard Victor Oladipo could be cleared to return to full-contact basketball as soon as November, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Glashow told ESPN. Glashow performed the procedure on May 13, and he expressed surprise that Oladipo had even
In our third 2021 NBA Mock Draft, the Houston Rockets land the No. 1 pick and a chance to grab a future star to build around. Since our last NBA Mock Draft, both the NBA and NCAA seasons have concluded locking in the non-lottery draft order and giving us one final look at some top
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (Photo by Brandon Dill/Getty Images) 4 key offseason moves Golden State Warriors absolutely must make by Mark Powell Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was watching Warriors-Grizzlies like the rest of us, and he was impressed by Ja Morant. Just days after beating
SAN ANTONIO, TX – MARCH 31: Luke Walton head coach of the Sacramento Kings talks to his team during the game against the San Antonio Spurs in the second half at AT&T Center on March 31, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using
1:15 AM ET Brianna Williams Facebook Twitter Facebook Messenger Pinterest Email print Ja Morant was “on his grizzly” as he led the Memphis Grizzlies to a playoff spot with a win over league MVP finalist Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Read more: Lessons from the wildest NBA season on record The 21-year-old put
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Washington Wizards really only needed three quarters to eliminate the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night, locking in a first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers. The Wizards used the
Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard went to bat for former teammate Caleb Swanigan on Instagram after an account questioned how he let himself go. Damian Lillard has no time for judgment on social media. The Trail Blazers guard unloaded on an Instagram account that posted side-by-side pictures of former Portland center Caleb Swanigan. On
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) landed on the floor after he was fouled by Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) as he goes up for a basket in the fourth quarter of the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports The Whiteboard: Lakers need to bench their bigs, Grizzlies
2:01 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Friday said his personal preference is for the play-in tournament to continue after this season, and that it was a success because of the incentive it gave teams to care until the end of the regular season. “I haven’t made any secret that I want
If it still hasn’t sunk in just yet, it bears repeating: the New York Knicks are making their first trip to the NBA Playoffs since 2012-13. Naturally, it’s understandable that most Knicks-centered articles are examining their ceiling this season. Alas, according to Kanye West, the present is the past – so, like Yeezy, we’re looking
The Blazers and Nuggets both had elite offenses this season but reached those heights in different ways behind Damian Lillard and Nikola Jokic. Stylistic diversity in the NBA is dead, or so those not familiar with the Denver Nuggets and Portland Trail Blazers’ work this season will tell you. The two teams, set to square
Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports The Whiteboard: What to watch for in each Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs by Ian Levy John Tavares released from hospital after scary hit to head: Maple Leafs captain out indefinitely by Dave Stevenson A Los Angeles Lakers veteran gives a ton of praise to the Golden State Warriors after their
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images The Phoenix Suns are being overlooked in the championship conversation. Here’s why they could shock the world and win the 2021 NBA title. A year ago, the Phoenix Suns just considered themselves fortunate to be invited to the NBA bubble at all. Now, they have legitimate title aspirations. It isn’t
10:05 AM ET Two 6-foot-9 Florida twins ranked among the top 15 high school juniors in the country — Matt and Ryan Bewley — are signing two-year deals with the Overtime Elite professional league, sources told ESPN, marking the first prep underclassmen to sign contracts with an American professional basketball league. Matt, who is ranked
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo gave an extremely honest answer on the team’s outlook in the NBA Playoffs. The Milwaukee Bucks have become a mainstay in the NBA Playoffs in recent years, but they have yet to make it to the NBA Finals. They were the presumptive favorites to win the Eastern Conference Championship last
1:24 AM ET During an impassioned speech that took place in the middle of the season after a loss, Russell Westbrook told the Washington Wizards that they were going to make the playoffs despite all the injuries, a COVID-19 outbreak and losing streaks the team had to endure this season. On Thursday night, Westbrook delivered
Ahoy, ahoy Bball junkies! Upon resuming Basketball Insiders’ Now What? Series, we now take a look at the post-LeBron Cleveland Cavaliers 2.0 in Year 3. Because of these new play-in guidelines, the Cavaliers were technically in the playoff hunt for most of the season. Even if there’s a solid argument that calling their season a
The finalists have officially been announced for this year’s set of NBA awards. The 2020-21 campaign provided yet another unique NBA season. But one thing that was no different was the level of play on the court. The start of the playoffs also means announcing all the finalists for the regular-season awards. TNT had the
7:46 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid and Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry are the finalists for this year’s NBA Most Valuable Player award. The top three vote-getters for each of the NBA’s major end-of-season awards — MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Rookie of the
Ahoy, ahoy Bball junkies! Upon resuming Basketball Insiders’ Now What? Series, we now take a look at the post-LeBron Cleveland Cavaliers 2.0 in Year 3. Because of these new play-in guidelines, the Cavaliers were technically in the playoff hunt for most of the season. Even if there’s a solid argument that calling their season a
The Warriors and Lakers turned their play-in game into an instant classic. The Lakers prevailed but the Warriors have more than a few questionable calls to stew over. Both the Warriors and Lakers needed some of those chaotic variables to break their way in Wednesday night’s play-in tournament — bit players to hit big shots,
Steph Curry, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports) 3 controversial calls that cost the Warriors against the Lakers by Ian Levy The Golden State Warriors may have lost, but at least Steph Curry won on the internet. Steph Curry channeled his inner Alonzo Mourning during the Golden State Warriors play-in tournament game loss
7:00 AM ET Anthony OlivieriESPN.com On November 19, 2004, Indiana Pacers forward Metta World Peace (then named Ron Artest) laid on the scorer’s table at the Palace of Auburn Hills, former home of the Detroit Pistons, where a confrontation was afoot. With 45 seconds left and the game in hand for the Pacers, World Peace
Expect this to be a quiet offseason for the Detroit Pistons. General manager Troy Weaver said as much when speaking with local media on the heels of their last game of the season: “I don’t anticipate having too many roster spots available,” said Weaver. “The answers for the Pistons moving forward are all in-house.” The
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MAY 19: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after hitting a three-point shot during the final seconds of the first half of an NBA Tournament Play-In game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on May 19, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 20: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks goes to the basket as Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets defends during the second half at Madison Square Garden on April 20, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) Several reasons stand out as to
Jeremy Lin, Beijing Ducks. (Photo by STR / AFP) / China OUT (Photo by STR/AFP via Getty Images) Stephen A. Smith goes nuclear on abysmal Shohei Ohtani take (Video) by Alicia de Artola NBA veteran Jeremy Lin just hinted on Twitter that he’s getting ready to hang up his sneakers and call it a career.
1:30 AM ET LOS ANGELES — By all accounts, the play-in tournament has been a resounding success for the NBA this year. It created exciting new scenarios toward the end of the regular season and mostly stemmed the widespread tanking which had made a mockery of the final month of play for the 14 teams
The Golden State Warriors are looking to upset the Los Angeles Lakers in their play-in game on Wednesday night. There are two keys to getting it done. What will it take for the Golden State Warriors to take down the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Play-In Tournament? Los Angeles may be the favorite in
Zion Williamson once again found himself in elite company as he made more NBA history. Kareem Adbul-Jabbar. Hakeem Olajuwon. David Robinson. And now, Zion Williamson. According to ESPN Stats & Info, that is the complete four-man list of players in NBA history to ever put up 10 or more 30-point games on 70 percent shooting
The Pelicans are hoping a great final week can allow the team to sneak in to this year’s play-in tournament. It is easy to lose track of time given the late start to the 2020-21 NBA season. But the regular season ends next weekend, and the New Orleans Pelicans are one team playing with a
7:59 PM ET NEW YORK — After a regular season riddled with injuries, the Brooklyn Nets are entering the NBA playoffs as close to fully healthy as they’ve been all season. Star guard James Harden, who missed over five weeks with a hamstring strain, was available to play in just two games during the final
The Washington Wizards may have what it takes to make some postseason noise this spring. After struggling out of the gate, the Washington Wizards played strong enough basketball down the stretch that they project as the last team into the Eastern Conference Playoffs this season. Washington finished in eighth place in the East this year, meaning the Wizards
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Western Conference play-in games kick off tonight with the Grizzlies and Spurs starting at 7:30 p.m. ET and the Warriors and Lakers at 10:00 p.m. ET. Whoever wins
The Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2020 — headlined by the late Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett — is the most accomplished class in history. After more than a year of delays due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, finally, this weekend, the Basketball Hall of Fame will enshrine the star-studded Class of 2020
7:00 AM ET The 2021 NBA postseason officially tips off Tuesday with the play-in tournament followed by the first round of the playoffs on Saturday. After a thrilling end of the regular season with seeds finally decided on the last day, the Charlotte Hornets and the Indiana Pacers will start things on Tuesday in the
Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images Several realistic goals stand out for a Lakers team with great expectations in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. The Los Angeles Lakers get the fun honor of taking part in this year’s play-in tournament. The first matchup is against the Golden State Warriors in what is a dream scenario for the
Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. (Journal Sentinel) Cubs getting healthy at right time with latest roster moves by Alicia de Artola Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and his girlfriend Mariah Riddlesprigger are due to welcome a second child into their lives. Congratulations are in order for Giannis Antetokounmpo and his girlfriend, who announced a second baby on
May 15, 2021 The season has been a slog for the Boston Celtics. There was a spate of COVID-related absences that shut down practice for a stretch, a knee injury that hampered Kemba Walker, nine straight games missed by key mid-season acquisition Evan Fournier, and finally a devastating season-ending injury to Jaylen Brown. The Celtics
Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images Several realistic goals stand out for the Knicks now that the long postseason drought is over. The New York Knicks are back where they belong in the NBA Playoffs. The team did well enough to secure the No. 4 seed and thus home-court advantage in the first round against the
NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 10: Chris Bosh #1 of the Miami Heat and Paul Pierce #34 of the Brooklyn Nets battle for the ball during their game at the Barclays Center on January 10, 2014 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this
David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports The Miami Heat came up just one or two miracles short in last year’s NBA Finals. Here’s what they’ll need to accomplish to earn another chance. You won’t hear the Miami Heat mentioned often in discussions of likely Eastern Conference contenders but no one saw them coming last year either.
Los Angeles Lakers defense braces for Golden State Warriors’ ‘head of the snake’ in Stephen Curry The Lakers’ defense, ranked No. 1 in the NBA during the regular season, will be tested by the league’s leading scorer, Stephen Curry, right away to begin the postseason in Wednesday’s play-in tournament game against the Warriors
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports As the Philadelphia 76ers seek to win their first NBA championship since 1983, here’s what they’ll hope to accomplish in the coming months. The Philadelphia 76ers won’t find out who they face in the first round of the 2021 NBA playoffs until Thursday, but it ultimately shouldn’t matter. Regardless of whether
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The official 16-team field for the 2021 NBA Playoffs isn’t set just yet, but postseason basketball is technically upon us thanks to this year’s ingenious play-in games! We saw
1:10 PM ET Bradley Beal said his strained left hamstring won’t be 100 percent and that he will have to manage it when the Washington Wizards play the Boston Celtics in the play-in tournament on Tuesday. Beal said his hamstring did not worsen after scoring 25 points and grabbing six rebounds in 35 minutes during
The 2020-21 regular season was a strange one for many reasons, but especially for the Golden State Warriors. Shortly before the NBA Draft, the team’s championship aspirations took a major hit with the injury to Klay Thompson. The best backcourt in the league would not be on full display this season, but they still had
After Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid were dogged by fit questions for years, the 76ers figured out how to make them work together offensively. Can the Philadelphia 76ers win a title with Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons? That question has hung over them for as long as they’ve been teammates. Embiid is a throwback, low-post
Stephen Curry and LeBron James. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Packers reveal what they want in return for any potential Aaron Rodgers trade by Brad Berreman LeBron James believes Steph Curry should be named NBA MVP this season. Ahead of their No. 7 vs. No. 8 play-in tournament game on Wednesday night, Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers will look to defend their NBA title by leaning on improved depth while hoping stars like Anthony Davis and LeBron James can stay fit. The Lakers are one of the most intriguing teams vying for glory in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. They have the make-up of a juggernaut but the seeding
11:44 PM ET The Sacramento Kings will bring head coach Luke Walton back for a third season, sources confirmed to ESPN. The Kings extended their record-tying 15-year playoff drought after a second consecutive 31-41 season under Walton, who has two years left on his deal. Sacramento is in the midst of a multiyear rebuilding process
A look back at the NBA playoff history for each of the four play-in tournament matchups, including two teams meeting for the first time ever. Over the NBA’s storied history, numerous changes have been made to the NBA postseason. The reasons for the change vary, sometimes it’s to create more excitement, sometimes it’s to level the
Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images The LA Clippers have their eyes set on winning the first NBA championship in franchise history, and they’ve got the makeup to do it. Year 1 of the Kawhi Leonard and Paul George partnership in Los Angeles didn’t yield the results the LA Clippers wanted. The team was bounced from
Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images The Los Angeles Clippers may be the 4-seed in the Western Conference, but they have some lofty but realistic goals for the 2021 NBA Playoffs. The 2020-21 NBA season has reached its conclusion on Sunday and we’re now moving forward with the playoffs. When looking at both conferences, the Western
3:27 PM ET Andrew LopezESPN New Orleans Pelicans guard Lonzo Ball has heard his name swirl in trade rumors almost from the time he entered the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers four years ago. But now, for the first time, Ball could have a say in his next destination as he approaches restricted free
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images The regular season is over, so it’s time to make some final picks for 2021 NBA awards, including MVP, Rookie of the Year and more. With the 2020-21 regular season in the rearview mirror, NBA awards season is officially upon us! While we won’t know the final tallies on the
At the conclusion of Sunday’s NBA games, the Eastern Conference play-in round is now officially set. The 2020-21 NBA season reached its conclusion on Sunday, with many keeping their eyes peeled on the new play-in round. While there were teams looking to avoid the mini-bracket altogether, there were others looking at it as their final
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The NBA’s play-in tournament kicks off Tuesday and every team will need stars and role players to come up big. Here’s the secret weapon each team will count on.
2:00 AM ET The Los Angeles Lakers‘ repeat title bid will commence with LeBron James facing a familiar foe in the Golden State Warriors during the play-in tournament, led by James’ pick for MVP, Stephen Curry. “I mean, just look at what he’s done this year,” James said after L.A.’s 110-98 win at the New
The Los Angeles Lakers’ regular-season finale victory was overshadowed by LeBron James leaving the game after rolling his already injured ankle. The Los Angeles Lakers were looking to close out their season with a win over the New Orleans Pelicans to give them a chance of avoiding the NBA’s play-in round altogether. The last thing
LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports Cubs give injury update on Kris Bryant after he was hit by pitch by Steven Kubitza LeBron James, Anthony Davis will miss Wednesday night’s game vs. the Houston Rockets. Nobody respects the Houston Rockets more than Los Angeles Lakers stars Anthony Davis and
The 2020-21 NBA playoffs — and play-in! — are finally here. And this thing is as wide open as ever. But before we lock in the full 16-team field, here’s a look at the first round of the play-in tournament, during which two teams from each conference will secure the Nos. 7 and 8 seeds:
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 08: Tacko Fall #99 of the Boston Celtics defends Russell Westbrook #4 of the Washington Wizards during the first quarter at TD Garden on January 08, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the
Draymond Green pleads his case that Stephen Curry should be NBA MVP by using Russell Westbrook as an example. Draymond Green believes his Golden State Warriors teammate Stephen Curry should be named NBA MVP this season, citing what Russell Westbrook did for the 2016-17 Oklahoma City Thunder as all the reason it should be him.
Steph Curry, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) 10 of the best moments from The Ultimate Fighter throughout the years by Chad Porto Any time a player joins Michael Jordan in the record books, it’s a good thing. On Sunday it was Steph Curry’s turn as he won the scoring title. Curry’s
5:39 PM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry is the NBA’s scoring king for the 2020-21 season. An 11-foot floater late in the first quarter of Sunday’s 113-101 win over the Memphis Grizzlies gave Curry enough points to clinch the scoring title over Washington Wizards All-Star Bradley Beal. After Beal scored
The Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers will enter the 2021 NBA Playoffs differently. With only two days’ worth of regular-season games left, teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Lakers are approaching the 2021 NBA Playoffs in a completely different manner. Philadelphia has clinched the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. New head coach
Rockets guard John Wall may be looking to leave Houston if you believe his recent response to a poll on Instagram over the weekend. Did you know Instagram makes your votes in polls public? John Wall didn’t. The Houston Rockets guard created a stir on social media when a fan shared a screenshot from Instagram.
11:24 PM ET As the regular season comes to a close, each team has something to play for: seeding or draft picks. With the addition of play-in games to the 2021 NBA playoffs, the scramble for seeding is wilder — and more important — than ever, with almost every game down the stretch having significant
Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs legend Robert Horry deserves recognition for his clutch plays, but he doesn’t belong in the Hall of Fame. The Robert Horry debate has begun once again. In his Hall of Fame induction speech, former Los Angeles Lakers coach Rudy Tomjanovich went to bat for Horry as a Hall
Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports Nikola Jokic has made it clear he should be the only choice for NBA MVP this season. The Denver Nuggets entered the season with dreams of winning a championship. Then Jamal Murray went down with a season-ending knee injury. That would have ended the dream for most teams. But
Denver Nuggets. (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images) The Denver Nuggets aren’t the favorites to win the championship this year, but here’s why they could still strike gold. It’s the question of the year for Denver: What if Jamal Murray never got hurt? Before Murray’s ACL injury in April, the Denver Nuggets were poised to
8:15 PM ET On Saturday, Kobe Bryant was officially inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash in January, 2020, was presented by Michael Jordan before Bryant’s wife, Vanessa Bryant, made a moving speech honoring the former Laker. In addition to Bryant, who won five NBA titles
EVERETT, WASHINGTON – MAY 15: Breanna Stewart #30 of the Seattle Storm handles the ball against A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces during the second quarter at Angel of the Winds Arena on May 15, 2021 in Everett, Washington. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using
11:47 AM ET As the Los Angeles Lakers seek to win out and avoid the play-in tournament, LeBron James is set for his return Saturday against the Indiana Pacers, according to coach Frank Vogel. James has missed the past six games to continue to recover from a high ankle sprain, but he practiced Friday and
Analyst Chris Webber won’t be involved in TNT’s coverage of the 2021 NBA Playoff, leaving the broadcasting team after 14 years. NBA playoff games broadcast on TNT this year will have a different sound to them. Chris Webber and TNT have agreed to part ways, according to The New York Post. The analyst was not
Mavericks star Luka Doncic (Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports) Trevor Bauer had strong words for the Dodgers’ struggles this season by Scott Rogust Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic was ejected from Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers when he took a swipe at Collin Sexton’s groin area. Referees tossed Luka Doncic for a flagrant found on
CLEVELAND, OHIO – DECEMBER 23: Assistant coach Lindsay Gottlieb of the Cleveland Cavaliers listens while in the coaches huddle during a time-out during the second quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on December 23, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this
12:56 AM ET Five years removed from a 10-win season, the Philadelphia 76ers find themselves atop the Eastern Conference. Friday’s 122-97 victory over the Orlando Magic gave Philadelphia its first No. 1 seed in the East in 20 years, something coach Doc Rivers said the team should not take for granted. “It’s an accomplishment. I
SANTA MONICA, CA – JUNE 25: (L-R) Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson Jr., Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley speak onstage at the 2018 NBA Awards at Barkar Hangar on June 25, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Turner Sports) Brian Snitker gives amazing injury update on Ronald Acuña by Mark Powell
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. If you think you’re tired of the LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan, GOAT argument, imagine being a retired NBA player. As your immediate relevancy fades, all you have is
11:42 PM ET With the addition of play-in games to the 2021 NBA playoffs, the scramble for seeding is wilder — and more important — than ever, with almost every game down the stretch having significant postseason implications. Play-in matchups after Thursday’s games Play-in games to be held Tuesday through Friday of next week •
Juan Toscano-Anderson just signed a two-year deal with Golden State. The Oakland-native already considers himself a “Warrior for life.” In a sports world increasingly dominated by strict business decisions on the part of organizations and players, there’s something extra special about finding someone who bucks the trend. Juan Toscano-Anderson is one of those people. The
Brian Westerholt-USA TODAY Sports Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball deserves the Rookie of the Year Award despite his missed injury time because he’s been that good. The Rookie of the Year Award should go to LaMelo Ball, plain and simple. The Charlotte Hornets guard has been a revelation in Year 1. While there are others
Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball got a technical in Tuesday’s game and it might be the least glamorous foul ever. Whenever Ball makes waves in the league, it’s usually hype for his Rookie of the Year performances. He’s been playing so well for Charlotte lately that it’s hard to believe he’s only 19. So when
4:47 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN UNCASVILLE, Conn. — The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has created a special exhibit honoring the late Kobe Bryant, one that was toured by his wife, Vanessa, on Friday afternoon and that will become the “most talked about” exhibit in the Hall, according to John Doleva, its president and
Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports The Milwaukee Bucks haven’t been the regular-season juggernaut they were the past two years. But there are still more than enough reasons they could finally win it all. The past two seasons, the Milwaukee Bucks steamrolled the Eastern Conference — winning better than 70 percent of their games, holding down the
Alex Rodriguez. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) Heather Hardy returns to boxing and looking for answers by Jeremy Herriges Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore have purchased the Minnesota Timberwolves from Glen Taylor. After spending over a month at the negotiating table, former MLB star Alex Rodriguez and tech entrepreneur Marc Lore have agreed to buy the
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JANUARY 01: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) Shohei Ohtani humiliates Jose Altuve with filthy slider (Video) by Mark Powell The Brooklyn Nets cannot afford an injury to Kyrie Irving. Irving, James Harden and Kevin Durant have formed an excellent trifecta so far this
The Brooklyn Nets recent struggles have made one thing clear: if they’re going to win a championship, they’re going to need a healthy James Harden leading the way. The Brooklyn Nets have not looked great recently. However, when James Harden first injured his hamstring in a March 31 game against the Rockets, the Nets were
9:15 PM ET Tim BontempsESPN It took almost five months for Udonis Haslem to play in a game for the Miami Heat this season — and he didn’t last very long. Haslem, who appeared in a game for an 18th straight season, played three minutes before getting ejected early in the second quarter of Thursday
Kyle Kuzma, Los Angeles Lakers. (Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports) Fully vaccinated Gleyber Torres becomes eighth Yankee to test positive for COVID-19 by Alicia de Artola Kyle Kuzma is not just a great player, but he is a phenomenal Los Angeles Lakers insider. Nobody know the inner workings of the Los Angeles Lakers quite like Kyle
Ex-Boston Celtics man Paul Pierce gives a not-so-subtle hint about his future career moves in an Instagram video of his weed lab. Paul Pierce went from Celtics green to…a different kind of green. Earlier this month, Paul Pierce was fired by ESPN after sharing inappropriate videos of himself partying, gambling, and wholly enjoying the company
The Boston Celtics’ playoff chances took a massive hit on Monday, as Jaylen Brown is set to miss the remainder of the season. The Boston Celtics have four games remaining in the regular season to try and sneak into the playoffs and avoid the Eastern Conference play-in round. With the team two games behind the
1:35 AM ET With the addition of play-in games to the 2021 NBA playoffs, the scramble for seeding is wilder — and more important — than ever, with almost every game down the stretch having significant postseason implications. Play-in matchups following Wednesday’s games Play-in games to be held May 18-21 • How the play-in tournament
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 07: Dwight Howard #39 of the Philadelphia 76ers cheers before playing against the New Orleans Pelicans at Wells Fargo Center on May 07, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions
3:10 PM ET ESPN News Services Minnesota Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor has reached a verbal agreement on a $1.5 billion sale of the team to former baseball star Alex Rodriguez and e-commerce mogul Marc Lore, sources told ESPN, confirming multiple reports. NBA approval of the deal was still pending, and neither side has publicly announced
After the Celtics loss on Wednesday, the New York Knicks just clinched their 2021 playoff spot, and some Knicks fans are taking it better than others. Who would’ve thought? On Wednesday night, Boston fell to Cleveland (yes, Cleveland, who had been on an 11-game losing streak), which gave the New York Knicks their first playoff
Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson and other NBA legends congratulated Russell Westbrook after the Washington Wizards star broke the NBA’s triple-double record. On Monday night, Washington Wizards star Russell Westbrook made NBA history, resetting a record that probably won’t be broken for a long time … especially since he has plenty more time to build on
Nothing about this Washington Wizards’ season makes sense. Which is exactly what you expect from a team led by Russell Westbrook. In 2003 the NBA lengthened first-round playoff series from a best-of-5 to best-of-7, ensuring most of the league’s teams could bank on a few extra sellouts at premium postseason prices. Of course, from an
9:00 AM ET The NBA has created a new award in honor of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the league’s all-time leading scorer and a noted civil rights activist, that will recognize a player who best embodies his strive for social justice and racial equality, the league announced Thursday. The winner of the inaugural Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice
The Los Angeles Lakers unveiled their 2020 NBA championship banner at Staples Center with LeBron James and Anthony Davis thanking the fans. The Lakers won the 2020 NBA title under unusual circumstances, so it only makes sense they had to wait extra long to unveil their championship banner. They finally got the chance on Wednesday
Steph Curry, Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) The Whiteboard: Jazz and Warriors get bricky and the Spurs go off by Ian Levy Steph Curry continues to play out of his mind while leading the Golden State Warriors. The Utah Jazz thought they had a hard-earned road victory over the
Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell’s playoff return remains uncertain as the team recently announced he will continue getting treatment for his injury. Following their loss to the Golden State Warriors on Monday night, the Utah Jazz will have to deal with another blow: the continued absence of star Donovan Mitchell. The Jazz announced that Mitchell
10:55 PM ET With the addition of play-in games to the 2021 NBA playoffs, the scramble for seeding is wilder — and more important — than ever, with almost every game down the stretch having significant postseason implications. Play-in matchups following Tuesday’s games Play-in games to be held May 18-21 • How the play-in tournament
Michael Jordan revealed the final text message exchange he had with Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. This weekend, Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2020. The event was scheduled to take place last year, but was ultimately
5:04 PM ET Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James says he’s “getting close” to returning from an ankle injury, but he will not be in the lineup against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. “Getting close but I won’t be in the lineup tonight but more importantly I will be there to put that CHAMPIONSHIP
A wild WNBA Draft and offseason have shaken up the league’s power structure. Find out who ranks where in the first installment of our WNBA Power Rankings. The 2021 WNBA season is just around the corner. In most years and with most sports leagues, the defending champions would be sitting atop the first power rankings
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. DeMar DeRozan is 31 years old, what would typically be the end of a player’s athletic prime. He hasn’t made an All-Star team in the three years since he
3:25 AM ET LOS ANGELES — The final few possessions that Talen Horton-Tucker was involved in during the Los Angeles Lakers‘ 101-99 overtime win against the New York Knicks on Tuesday mimicked the situation his team finds itself in as the regular season winds down. Things might not have gone as planned up to this
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers. (Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) Explaining the Stanley Cup playoff bracket: How do the NHL playoffs work? by Dave Stevenson Rasheed Wallace has identified the elephant in the room with the Los Angeles Lakers. Former NBA star Rasheed Wallace knows exactly what the Los Angeles Lakers need to win big in
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 26: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Sacramento Kings dribbles the ball up court in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at Golden 1 Center on April 26, 2021 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting
10:39 PM ET Adrian Wojnarowski Close Senior NBA Insider Host of The Woj Pod Joined ESPN in 2017 Malika Andrews Close ESPN Staff Writer Staff Writer Joined ESPN in 2018 Appears regularly on ESPN Chicago 1000 After missing five weeks with a hamstring injury, Brooklyn Nets star James Harden‘s return is expected to be a
Bradley Beal had some strong words for Kent Bazemore after the Golden State Warriors wing made a joke about Stephen Curry and the race for the scoring title. On Saturday night, the race for the NBA scoring title got even more interesting as Stephen Curry followed up Bradley Beal’s 50-point detonation with 49 points of
Damian Lillard has incredibly high praise of Kevin Durant when he is healthy. Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard has mad respect for Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant. “I think [Kevin Durant] healthy could very well be the best player in the NBA,” said Lillard on The Dan Patrick Show Tuesday. “I mean nobody can
After nine seasons at the helm, the Portland Trail Blazers could be parting ways with long-time head coach Terry Stotts. Barring a deep playoff run of sorts, it seems as though the Portland Trail Blazers will have a new head coach next season instead of Terry Stotts. According to The Athletic, Stotts is one of a
3:54 PM ET LeBron James will give his injured right ankle one more day of rest Tuesday, when the Los Angeles Lakers take on the New York Knicks. James is targeting a return on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets, sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Dave McMenamin. Frank Vogel said James was a full participant
There is a chance the Boston Celtics don’t even make the Eastern Conference Playoffs this year. After falling to the Miami Heat in the 2020 Eastern Conference Finals down in the Orlando bubble, the Boston Celtics are on the verge of missing out on the 2021 NBA Playoffs entirely. With four games left in the 2020-21 NBA regular
Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports With the NBA final week of the 2020-21 season, and we are here to tell you why Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves should be the favorite to win Rookie of the Year. The 2020-21 NBA regular season is set to reach its conclusion by the end of the week,
The Phoenix Suns may draw the short stick when it comes a potential first-round matchup. Even if this is the best season the Phoenix Suns have had in a decade, they are on the precipice of a potentially horrendous first-round matchup come playoff time. With the 2020-21 NBA regular season entering its final week, the Suns find themselves two
12:48 AM ET SAN FRANCISCO — Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal called out Kent Bazemore on Twitter Monday night after the Golden State Warriors swingman appeared to take a shot at Beal while weighing in on Stephen Curry‘s place atop the NBA scoring race. During Monday’s shootaround, Bazemore, a close friend of Curry’s, praised his
Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images Could the New Orleans Pelicans still sneak into the play-in games? by Steven Kubitza Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam surprised his mom with an awesome gift for Mother’s Day. Much like during the holiday season, sports fans look forward to seeing their favorite athletes surprise their moms with gifts for
Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr heaps on the compliments for Joel Embiid ahead of the MVP race. Before the Philadelphia 76ers played the Golden State Warriors on Monday night, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr had some flattering words to say about the Sixers’ big man. Hours before the matchup, Kerr made it clear that
They didn’t get him at the trade deadline, but the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat are set to renew pursuit of Kyle Lowry this summer. As the Toronto Raptors started to go downhill, Kyle Lowry was pursued by contending teams at the trade deadline. A deal did not get done for the looming unrestricted free
9:29 PM ET Russell Westbrook made history on Monday with 8:30 remaining in the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Hawks when he collected his 182nd triple-double and broke Oscar Robertson’s record for most career triple-doubles. Westbrook passed Robertson when the Wizards’ point guard grabbed his 10th rebound in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MAY 04: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball down court during the second quarter of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on May 04, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading
10:50 AM ET Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal will miss at least two games because of a left hamstring strain, the team announced Monday. Beal, who suffered the injury Saturday against the Pacers, had already been ruled out for Monday’s road game against the Hawks. The NBA’s second-leading scorer now will also miss Wednesday’s game
Karl-Anthony Towns and his father had an emotional moment courtside on Mother’s Day a year after the Timberwolves center lost his mom to COVID-19. For the second time, Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns had to mark Mother’s Day without his mother, Jacqueline, who died last year due to complications from COVID-19. Despite the emotional challenge,
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Oklahoma City Thunder have largely been overshadowed this season. Their brief offseason was highlighted by the departure of Chris Paul and additions to their absurd war chest of
7:00 AM ET The NBA play-in tournament races — more importantly, the races to stay out of the play-in — sure make the regular season’s final week compelling. The Miami Heat took a huge step in securing their top-6 seed — and avoiding a spot among Nos. 7 to 10 — by defeating the seventh-seeded
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 30: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers is welcomed by Devontae Cacok #12 during pre-game warm-ups before the start of a basketball game against the Sacramento Kings at Staples Center on April 30, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. James is expected to return after missing over a month
ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith couldn’t contain his excitement after the New York Knicks beat the Memphis Grizzlies and secured their first winning season in eight years. On Tuesday’s episode of ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman took turns reacting to the New York Knicks defeating the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night. Kellerman
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – MARCH 18: Luca Vildoza of Baskonia during the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague match between Zenit St Petersburg and TD Systems Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz at Sibur Arena on March 18, 2021 in Saint Petersburg, Russia (Photo by Anatolij Medved/BSR Agency/Getty Images) First Pitch: Francisco Lindor and the endless pressure of playing in New York
8:51 PM ET Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic was ejected early in the third quarter of Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers after being called for a Flagrant 2 foul. After a lengthy replay review, the officials ruled that Doncic made “an aggressive strike to the groin area” of Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton, justifying the
With the NBA season winding down, there is limited left time for rookies to make their cases for the Rookie of the Year award. In all, three rookies are leading the charge and will likely be named the top three rookies of the season. Without further ado, let’s take a look at how the race
Why exactly did the Chicago Sky suspended Gabby Williams for the entire 2021 season? As the WNBA season prepares to tip off, we’re losing track of the massive questions we all want answers to. Will Breanna Stewart and the Storm repeat as WNBA Champions? Which exciting young rookie will dazzle us and become one of
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. Defending Zion Williamson is, increasingly, becoming one of the most complex strategic challenges in the NBA. His size, agility and touch around the basket give him at least one
David Griffin, New Orleans Pelicans. (Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) Why did Chicago Sky suspend Gabby Williams for entire WNBA season? by Josh Hill David Griffin believes how Zion Williamson has been officiated led to his injury. The New Orleans Pelicans will be without Zion Williamson indefinitely with a broken finger, and executive vice
1:02 PM ET The NBA fined New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin $50,000 on Sunday “for public criticism of the officiating and comments detrimental to the NBA.” On Friday, Griffin said Zion Williamson‘s fractured left ring finger, which will keep him out indefinitely, was “avoidable” if the NBA did a
Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) The Los Angeles Lakers will to have to run the gauntlet in the postseason one way or another. Defending their NBA championship will be easier said than done for the Los Angeles Lakers. Injuries have really slowed down LeBron James and company this year. The
Washington Wizards point guard Russell Westbrook tied legend Oscar Robertson for the most triple-doubles in NBA history on Saturday night. Russell Westbrook has been on a roll ever since joining the Washington Wizards via a trade with the Houston Rockets this offseason. The veteran point guard has been putting up triple-doubles on a consistent basis, thus
7:36 AM ET Tim BontempsESPN ON OPENING NIGHT in Indianapolis, New York Knicks guard RJ Barrett stood wide open in the left corner before taking a crosscourt pass and gathering for the shot. Despite Indiana Pacers guard Aaron Holiday closing hard, Barrett rose and fired a high-arching shot that hit all net and gave the
Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers, Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) UFC Vegas 26 official weigh-in results: Marina Rodriguez vs. Michelle Waterson by Thomas Albano Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green offers tremendous praise of Cleveland Cavaliers’ guard Darius Garland. Cleveland Cavaliers fans should be very excited about what Golden State Warriors
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. Matchups are key in any playoff series but, as we saw Sunday, the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets might present the most interesting array of possibilities in the Eastern
10:50 PM ET Oscar Robertson has owned the record for most career triple-doubles since 1961-62. Now, the Big O will share that record with Russell Westbrook. And that might only last two days because Westbrook will go for sole possession of the record on Monday against the Atlanta Hawks. It had become an afterthought of
With the NBA season winding down, there is limited left time for rookies to make their cases for the Rookie of the Year award. In all, three rookies are leading the charge and will likely be named the top three rookies of the season. Without further ado, let’s take a look at how the race
Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans. (Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports) Jordan Love’s people hyping him with Patrick Mahomes, Aaron Rodgers comparisons by Cole Thompson The New Orleans Pelicans will be without phenom forward Zion Williamson indefinitely. With a shot at the play-in tournament on the horizon, the New Orleans Pelicans suffer a brutal blow in
Jimmy Butler had off-the-chart levels of confidence (and sass) about the Miami Heat’s upcoming games and roasted one sorry reporter on Sunday night. Even if the Miami Heat were dead-last in the NBA standings, Butler would probably still think he could make the playoffs. That’s how much confidence he had when he was asked about
Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves, Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat. (Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-USA TODAY Sports) Are the Dallas Cowboys still the most valuable sports franchise? by John Buhler Jimmy Butler ripped Karl-Anthony Towns to shreds with his latest smack-talking episode. Jimmy Butler made Karl-Anthony Towns the latest victim of his one-of-a-kind smack talk. As Butler’s Miami
4:25 AM ET In what’s too early to call a complete collapse but too stunning to label a mere stumble, the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers are now slated to compete in the NBA’s play-in tournament with a little more than a week remaining in the regular season. Friday’s 106-101 loss to the Portland Trail
With the NBA season winding down, there is limited left time for rookies to make their cases for the Rookie of the Year award. In all, three rookies are leading the charge and will likely be named the top three rookies of the season. Without further ado, let’s take a look at how the race
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors. (Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Kansas City Royals: 1 prospect to call up, 1 veteran to demote by Brad Berreman Shaquille O’Neal could not be more impressed by what Stephen Curry is doing leading the Golden State Warriors this season. Despite the Golden State Warriors likely bound for the play-in tournament, Shaquille
De’Anthony Melton’s improvements as a shooter and ball-handler in year three, when paired with his stout defense, make him invaluable to the Grizzlies. De’Anthony Melton will not win Most Improved Player this season. He does not deserve the award. That honor is Julius Randle‘s. But Melton is, nonetheless, among the crop of vastly improved players
10:02 PM ET With the addition of play-in games to the 2021 NBA playoffs, the scramble for seeding is wilder — and more important — than ever, with almost every game down the stretch having significant postseason implications. Here’s a breakdown of all the key games from Friday night and what the results mean for
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. The Los Angeles Lakers are cratering toward a place no one expected even two months ago. Coming off a title run in the Orlando bubble and a start to the
Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers. (Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports) Nick Saban will make Jimbo Fisher regret poking the bear by John Buhler Anthony Davis suffered yet another injury playing for the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. After missing two months’ worth of action for the Los Angeles Lakers, big man Anthony Davis had
Lakers forward Anthony Davis. (Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports) Bellator 258: Michael “Venom” Page destroys Derek Anderson’s nose for doctor stoppage victory (Video) by Adam Stocker The Los Angeles Lakers can breathe a sigh of relief thanks to the latest injury update on Anthony Davis, whose back spasms won’t keep him out long. Injuries haven’t been
5:13 PM ET New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson is out indefinitely with a fractured left ring finger, the team announced on Friday. Williamson underwent a CT scan on Thursday that revealed the injury. A treatment plan and timetable for his return will be determined after further evaluation. The Pelicans (30-36) entered Friday’s game against
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MAY 02: Khris Middleton #22 of the Milwaukee Bucks is defended by Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets during a game at Fiserv Forum on May 02, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 06: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers handles the ball defended by Norman Powell #24 of the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples Center on April 06, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is
Patrick Beverley’s fractured hand could disrupt the LA Clippers’ rhythm heading into the playoffs. The LA Clippers have been struggling to get healthy all season. Unfortunately, they were dealt yet another blow on the injury front on Friday. According to the team, point guard Patrick Beverley suffered a fracture of the fourth metacarpal bone in
12:04 AM ET LOS ANGELES — Anthony Davis was ruled out of the second half of Thursday’s game against the LA Clippers because of back spasms, giving the Los Angeles Lakers two stars — along with LeBron James — who made their return from a long-term injury only to go back on the mend with
The New York Knicks and Julius Randle have been such a phenomenal fit this season. Julius Randle is about to get paid big time, and the New York Knicks are well aware of this. Randle signed a three-year deal with the Knicks during 2019 NBA free agency worth $62.1 million. In the midst of his breakout
The Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks and Portland Trail Blazers find their head coaches on the hot seat. Several NBA teams have their head coaches on the hot seat, including Nate Bjorkgren of the Indiana Pacers, Mike Budenholzer of the Milwaukee Bucks and Terry Stotts of the Portland Trail Blazers. While Budenholzer and Stotts have been
T.J. Warren, Indiana Pacers. (Mandatory Credit: Ashley Landis/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports) James Harden provides promising update on his return from injury by Braulio Perez T.J. Warren wanted out of the Indiana Pacers after the team hired Nate Bjorkgren as their next head coach. With Indiana Pacers head coach Nate Bjorkgren expected to be one-and-done, this story about
11:00 PM ET The Nets are in serious jeopardy of slipping to the East’s third seed after their 113-109 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday as Brooklyn has lost four straight games for the first time all season. The Milwaukee Bucks are only a half game behind Brooklyn and own the tiebreaker between the
After a disappointing and confusing start to the season, the Boston Celtics have seemingly turned things around. Boston went 11-5 in April but is still a full game out of the coveted sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. The ultimate goal is to avoid the new Play-In Tournament. To do that, they will need to
The Los Angeles Lakers were founded in 1947, but their true origins lie in the Midwest. The Los Angeles Lakers nickname history stretches back 74 years to when the team was first introduced into the NBA. The Lakers’ franchise technically began as the Detroit Gems of the National Basketball League. They only played one season
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JANUARY 30: Sterling Brown #0 of the Houston Rockets reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center on January 30, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to
Kevin Porter Jr., Houston Rockets. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) Genesis Cabrera HBP has clear injury ramifications for Bryce Harper by Alicia de Artola Raiders deny front-office ‘friction’ over Alex Leatherwood pick by John Buhler Kevin Porter Jr. went off Thursday night for 50 points to shock the NBA world and help the Rockets take
1:16 PM ET The Indiana Pacers are suspending assistant coach Greg Foster for one game and fining center Goga Bitadze for an emotionally-charged on-court exchange Wednesday night in a loss to the Sacramento Kings, sources told ESPN. Foster will serve the suspension Thursday night for the Pacers’ home game against the Atlanta Hawks, sources said.
With the NBA season winding down, there is limited left time for rookies to make their cases for the Rookie of the Year award. In all, three rookies are leading the charge and will likely be named the top three rookies of the season. Without further ado, let’s take a look at how the race
The Phoenix Suns were founded in 1968, and their simple nickname has a very simple reason. The Phoenix Suns nickname history stretches back 53 years to when the team was first introduced into the NBA. In the 1968-69 season, the Suns joined the NBA alongside the Milwaukee Bucks. At the time, the Suns were the
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry has been lightning hot from beyond the arc in April, setting an NBA record with time to spare. Stephen Curry doesn’t have to do anything more to prove he’s among the greatest shooters the NBA has ever seen. That’s not stopping him from breaking every league shooting record possible.
NBA fans had some positive and negative thoughts about ESPN’s “Marvel Arena of Heroes” broadcast of the Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans game. Earth’s mightiest heroes haven’t gathered on screen for Marvel fans in over a year, but on the small screen, they’ve been giving fans of the superhero genre plenty to enjoy.
2:25 PM ET Brooklyn Nets guard James Harden, who has been out for over a month with a hamstring strain, says he is “very confident” he will return before the playoffs begin. “The plan is to hopefully get an opportunity to play a couple games before the postseason,” Harden said Thursday. “We’re just taking one
Three teams in the Eastern Conference are expected to compete for a spot in the NBA Finals. The Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks are clearly head-and-shoulders above the next tier of teams in the East. Still, those organizations are not going to just lay down and concede defeat. Last year the Miami HEAT
NBA news for Wednesday morning, includes LeBron James needing to miss more time, the Nets suddenly look vulnerable, Tyrese Haliburton is out for the year and Damian Lillard is big mad. The NBA season is in the homestretch of the regular season and playoff positioning is heating up, especially in the Western Conference with the Los
Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports The Whiteboard: How are teams trying to stop Zion Williamson? by Ian Levy He’s operating off the radar on a bad team, but Saddiq Bey is making NBA rookie history as a 3-point shooter. In a battle of the teams with the two worst records in the Eastern Conference, the Detroit
1:55 PM ET Luca Vildoza, an Argentinian guard with Baskonia of the Spanish ACB League, has agreed in principle to a four-year, $13.6 million deal with the New York Knicks, his agent, Alex Saratsis of Octagon Sports, told ESPN. Vildoza, one of the premier playmakers in Europe, will fly to New York once he clears
After two consecutive years of being the seventh or eighth seed in the Eastern Conference and quickly exiting the playoffs after an uncompetitive first-round series, the Orlando Magic broke up the core of those teams at this year’s trade deadline. Gone are stalwarts like Nikola Vucevic, who became a two-time All-Star during his time in
Elena Delle Donne recovering from two back surgeries is ready to embark on another run at a WNBA championship and Olympic gold medal. WNBA training camp could not come soon enough for Washington Mystics forward Elena Delle Donne. The offseason was an especially long Covid-induced time which also included multiple back surgeries, making her return
A fantastic season for the Nuggets has suddenly been put on shaky ground by the news of Jamal Murrary’s season-ending ACL injury. The Nuggets lost more than just a game last night. The Warriors won behind a 53-point explosion from Stephen Curry but the biggest story of the night was a Jamal Murray being helped
The Whiteboard is The Step Back’s daily basketball newsletter, covering the NBA, WNBA and more. Subscribe here to get it delivered to you via email each morning. Nikola Jokic is in the midst of a remarkable, MVP-worthy season. His numbers have been impeccable and he’s even helped keep the Denver Nuggets afloat since Jamal Murray went
6:48 PM ET Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets each have been fined $35,000 for violating the NBA’s media access rules, the league announced on Wednesday. “The fines result from Irving’s repeated refusal to participate in postgame media availability,” the league said in a statement. The NBA requires that healthy players be made available upon
In the NBA Draft, late-lottery teams typically face tough decisions. The late lottery is usually home to teams with some – albeit not a whole lot – of talent. Ideally, teams in the late lottery are up-and-coming, allowing them to either draft based on need or take a chance on someone they can bring along
In this week’s NBA Power Rankings looks at the peaking Milwaukee Bucks, the Michael Porter Jr. show, Russell Westbrook’s triple-doubles and more. Our new look NBA Power Rankings are back, a non-traditional structure for a non-traditional era of professional basketball. The world is no longer just about wins and losses and teams are no longer
NBA stars Tobias Harris and Boban Marjanovic opened up on a wide range of different topics with FanSided’s Mark Carman during a recent interview. Get Philadelphia 76ers sharpshooter Tobias Harris and Dallas Mavericks big man Boban Marjanovic in front of the camera together and you better believe they’ll both be nothing short of entertaining. The