#nba-playoffs-race
#nba-playoffs-race

Fox outshines Wembanyama as Spurs power past Trail Blazers while the 76ers and the Knicks enjoy vital wins

De'Aaron Fox led the Spurs to a 114-95 victory, securing a 4-1 series win over the Trail Blazers in the postseason.

fromBuzzFeed

Golden State Warriors

An NBA Player Who Pulled A Gun On A Teammate And 14 Other Wild Events In Sports History

6 hours ago

National Basketball Association

The NBA's Lottery Reform Proposal Will Change, But Not Eliminate, Tanking | Defector

18 hours ago

RAPTORS VS CAVALIERS GAME 5 REACTION - PULL UP TRE

The Raptors struggled without Barnes' dominance, leading to their defeat against the Cavaliers in Game 5.

Television

fromESPN.com

NBA says 170M watched regular season, up 86% from 2024-25

NBA's Year 1 of new TV deals saw 170 million viewers, the highest in 24 years, with an 86% increase from last season.

14 hours ago

LeBron James involved in verbal spat as the Lakers feel the heat after Rockets win again

The Lakers lead the series 3-2 after the Rockets' comeback win in Game Five.

Boston Celtics

Fox outshines Wembanyama as Spurs power past Trail Blazers while the 76ers and the Knicks enjoy vital wins

De'Aaron Fox led the Spurs to a 114-95 victory, securing a 4-1 series win over the Trail Blazers in the postseason.

Golden State Warriors

fromBuzzFeed

An NBA Player Who Pulled A Gun On A Teammate And 14 Other Wild Events In Sports History

Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton pointed guns at each other in the locker room after a gambling dispute, leading to severe consequences for both players.

6 hours ago

The NBA's Lottery Reform Proposal Will Change, But Not Eliminate, Tanking | Defector

The NBA is implementing a new lottery system to address widespread tanking by incentivizing different teams to lose games.

18 hours ago

RAPTORS VS CAVALIERS GAME 5 REACTION - PULL UP TRE

The Raptors struggled without Barnes' dominance, leading to their defeat against the Cavaliers in Game 5.

Television

fromESPN.com

NBA says 170M watched regular season, up 86% from 2024-25

NBA's Year 1 of new TV deals saw 170 million viewers, the highest in 24 years, with an 86% increase from last season.

Gameday: Raptors @ Cavaliers, April 29th

The Toronto Raptors have strong momentum and defense, making them a formidable opponent against the Cleveland Cavaliers in a tied playoff series.

Toronto

Raptors have discovered how to steal momentum from Cavaliers

Finishing quarters strong is essential for the Raptors to maintain momentum and confidence in their playoff series against the Cavaliers.

Which Raptors have risen to the occasion in the Playoffs?

Toronto Raptors have rallied to even the playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, with standout performances from Scottie Barnes and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles.

The exact playoff games others dread may fuel a deep Raptors run

Toronto Raptors emphasize that winning style points are irrelevant, focusing on a physical, defense-oriented approach to succeed in the playoffs.

Raptors rollick to fourth-quarter beatdown of Cavs in Game 3

Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles led Toronto to victory with impressive performances against the Cavaliers.

Jamison Battle just carved out the ultimate Raptors playoff wildcard vs. Cavaliers

Jamison Battle's explosive fourth-quarter performance was crucial for the Raptors' Game 3 victory, scoring 14 points in just over 8 minutes.

Gameday: Raptors @ Cavaliers, April 29th

The Toronto Raptors have strong momentum and defense, making them a formidable opponent against the Cleveland Cavaliers in a tied playoff series.

Toronto

Raptors have discovered how to steal momentum from Cavaliers

Finishing quarters strong is essential for the Raptors to maintain momentum and confidence in their playoff series against the Cavaliers.

Which Raptors have risen to the occasion in the Playoffs?

Toronto Raptors have rallied to even the playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, with standout performances from Scottie Barnes and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles.

The exact playoff games others dread may fuel a deep Raptors run

Toronto Raptors emphasize that winning style points are irrelevant, focusing on a physical, defense-oriented approach to succeed in the playoffs.

Raptors rollick to fourth-quarter beatdown of Cavs in Game 3

Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles led Toronto to victory with impressive performances against the Cavaliers.

Jamison Battle just carved out the ultimate Raptors playoff wildcard vs. Cavaliers

Jamison Battle's explosive fourth-quarter performance was crucial for the Raptors' Game 3 victory, scoring 14 points in just over 8 minutes.

National Basketball Association

The Cavs' burden of proof is the Raptors' biggest advantage

Chicago Cubs

How Many Points Will LeBron James Score in Game 5? Props from FanDuel Sportsbook - Bleacher Nation

Washington Wizards

Is Magic-Pistons The Most Interesting Series So Far? | Defector

Podcast

Behold! The 'Nothing But Respect' NBA Playoffs Mega-Preview | Defector

Chicago Cubs

Cavaliers vs. Raptors Predictions, Best Bets and Odds: NBA Playoffs Game 5 - Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - Bleacher Nation

fromwww.aljazeera.com

Rockets thrash LeBron's Lakers; Wembanyama triumphant on Spurs' return

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 115-96, while Victor Wembanyama returned to lead the Spurs to a 3-1 series advantage.

The Cavs' burden of proof is the Raptors' biggest advantage

The Raptors aim to exploit the pressure on the Cavaliers while proving their own potential in the playoffs.

Chicago Cubs

How Many Points Will LeBron James Score in Game 5? Props from FanDuel Sportsbook - Bleacher Nation

Washington Wizards

Is Magic-Pistons The Most Interesting Series So Far? | Defector

The Detroit Pistons are struggling against the Orlando Magic, down 2-1 in the series with Orlando appearing stronger overall.

Podcast

Behold! The 'Nothing But Respect' NBA Playoffs Mega-Preview | Defector

A mega-sized playoff preview podcast features interviews about NBA playoff teams, divided into Western and Eastern Conference segments, plus a special Nuggets discussion.

Chicago Cubs

Cavaliers vs. Raptors Predictions, Best Bets and Odds: NBA Playoffs Game 5 - Wednesday, April 29, 2026 - Bleacher Nation

fromwww.aljazeera.com

Rockets thrash LeBron's Lakers; Wembanyama triumphant on Spurs' return

The Houston Rockets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 115-96, while Victor Wembanyama returned to lead the Spurs to a 3-1 series advantage.

more#nba-playoffs

#miami-heat

5 hours ago

Pat Riley emphasizes what he's prioritizing this summer with 2 words

Pat Riley emphasizes player availability and injury history as critical factors in offseason decisions for the Miami Heat.

Heat's Ja Morant dream may be over before fans even realize it

Miami Heat are unlikely to pursue a trade for Ja Morant due to financial risks and team needs.

3 hours ago

Heat to participate in 2026 California Classic Summer League event

The Miami Heat will participate in the California Classic Summer League in July, facing the Spurs, Lakers, and Warriors.

Latest Kevin Durant rumor proves Heat will never quit the chase

The Miami Heat's pursuit of star players, like Kevin Durant, may not align with their long-term interests and current roster needs.

Heat have the perfect offseason target that instantly improves their roster

The Miami Heat need to improve their roster, potentially targeting Giannis Antetokounmpo or Coby White this summer.

5 hours ago

Pat Riley emphasizes what he's prioritizing this summer with 2 words

Pat Riley emphasizes player availability and injury history as critical factors in offseason decisions for the Miami Heat.

Heat's Ja Morant dream may be over before fans even realize it

Miami Heat are unlikely to pursue a trade for Ja Morant due to financial risks and team needs.

3 hours ago

Heat to participate in 2026 California Classic Summer League event

The Miami Heat will participate in the California Classic Summer League in July, facing the Spurs, Lakers, and Warriors.

Latest Kevin Durant rumor proves Heat will never quit the chase

The Miami Heat's pursuit of star players, like Kevin Durant, may not align with their long-term interests and current roster needs.

Heat have the perfect offseason target that instantly improves their roster

The Miami Heat need to improve their roster, potentially targeting Giannis Antetokounmpo or Coby White this summer.

more#miami-heat

#ncaa

Washington Wizards

More March Madness: NCAA basketball tournaments reportedly set to expand to 76 teams

NCAA basketball tournaments will expand from 68 to 76 teams, benefiting primarily Power Four conferences.

SF politics

Who Actually Wants A Bigger NCAA Tournament? | Defector

The NCAA is expanding college basketball tournaments to 76 teams, a decision that lacks public support and may dilute the quality of competition.

Washington Wizards

More March Madness: NCAA basketball tournaments reportedly set to expand to 76 teams

NCAA basketball tournaments will expand from 68 to 76 teams, benefiting primarily Power Four conferences.

SF politics

Who Actually Wants A Bigger NCAA Tournament? | Defector

The NCAA is expanding college basketball tournaments to 76 teams, a decision that lacks public support and may dilute the quality of competition.

more#ncaa

#nhl

National Hockey League

23 hours ago

NHL Playoffs Open Thread: Third time's a charm for the Flyers? - Blue Seat Blogs

Philadelphia Flyers aim to close out series against Pittsburgh Penguins at home after losing last two games.

Boston Bruins

NHL Playoffs Open Thread: Sabres, Ducks go for the win - Blue Seat Blogs

Buffalo Sabres and Anaheim Ducks aim for series wins in Game 5 against Bruins and Oilers, respectively.

NHL Playoffs Open Thread: Avalanche looking for the sweep - Blue Seat Blogs

The Colorado Avalanche aim to sweep the LA Kings, while three other teams seek to extend their series leads in Game 4s.

Kings trying to fend off elimination, one game at a time

The Kings must focus on winning one game at a time to overcome a 3-0 series deficit against the Avalanche.

National Hockey League

23 hours ago

NHL Playoffs Open Thread: Third time's a charm for the Flyers? - Blue Seat Blogs

Philadelphia Flyers aim to close out series against Pittsburgh Penguins at home after losing last two games.

Boston Bruins

NHL Playoffs Open Thread: Sabres, Ducks go for the win - Blue Seat Blogs

Buffalo Sabres and Anaheim Ducks aim for series wins in Game 5 against Bruins and Oilers, respectively.

NHL Playoffs Open Thread: Avalanche looking for the sweep - Blue Seat Blogs

The Colorado Avalanche aim to sweep the LA Kings, while three other teams seek to extend their series leads in Game 4s.

Kings trying to fend off elimination, one game at a time

The Kings must focus on winning one game at a time to overcome a 3-0 series deficit against the Avalanche.

Don't Make The Tiny Man Dribble While Everyone Else Stands Still | Defector

Jalen Brunson's playing style leads to isolation and impacts team dynamics during critical game moments.

#lakers

10 hours ago

Marcus Smart says Lakers must 'be willing to run through a wall' in Game 6

The Lakers lead the series 3-2 but face pressure to avoid a historic playoff collapse against the Rockets.

Turnover-plagued Lakers fail to pull off sweep in Game 4 loss to Rockets

The Lakers lost Game 4 to the Rockets 115-96 but still lead the series 3-1.

10 hours ago

Marcus Smart says Lakers must 'be willing to run through a wall' in Game 6

The Lakers lead the series 3-2 but face pressure to avoid a historic playoff collapse against the Rockets.

Turnover-plagued Lakers fail to pull off sweep in Game 4 loss to Rockets

The Lakers lost Game 4 to the Rockets 115-96 but still lead the series 3-1.

Chicago Cubs

LeBron James Talks GOAT Debate: "Little Better" than MJ?

11 hours ago

Commentary: Lakers need another ageless LeBron James performance after Game 5 loss

LeBron James' performance has declined, impacting the Lakers' chances in the playoff series against the Houston Rockets.

NBA: LeBron James takes blame for Lakers loss as Rockets avoid sweep

LeBron James took responsibility for the Lakers' loss to the Rockets, citing his turnovers as a key factor in the defeat.

'It keeps getting better and better': Bronny James settling into Lakers playoff role

LeBron James and Bronny James made history with the NBA's first father-son postseason alley-oop during the Lakers' playoff run.

Chicago Cubs

LeBron James Talks GOAT Debate: "Little Better" than MJ?

11 hours ago

Commentary: Lakers need another ageless LeBron James performance after Game 5 loss

LeBron James' performance has declined, impacting the Lakers' chances in the playoff series against the Houston Rockets.

NBA: LeBron James takes blame for Lakers loss as Rockets avoid sweep

LeBron James took responsibility for the Lakers' loss to the Rockets, citing his turnovers as a key factor in the defeat.

'It keeps getting better and better': Bronny James settling into Lakers playoff role

LeBron James and Bronny James made history with the NBA's first father-son postseason alley-oop during the Lakers' playoff run.

The level of playoff trust Ja'Kobe Walter just earned vs. Cavs resets expectations

Ja'Kobe Walter excelled in Game 5 with 20 points and four steals despite the Raptors' loss to the Cavs.

7 hours ago

Heat are finally learning brutal Tyler Herro lesson the fans saw all along

Miami Heat must trade Tyler Herro soon to avoid losing him for nothing or making a costly re-signing mistake.

Boston Celtics

fromBoston.com

Celtics spoil Embiid's return to action after appendectomy, beat 76ers 128-96 to take 3-1 series lead

Boston Celtics defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 128-96, taking a 3-1 lead in the playoff series.

Cleveland Cavaliers rally for 125-120 victory over the Toronto Raptors to take 3-2 series lead | CBC News

Cleveland Cavaliers won Game 5 against Toronto Raptors 125-120, leading the series 3-2 with a crucial fourth-quarter performance.

NBA: Cavs take further lead as Hawks and Timberwolves tie playoff series

Cleveland Cavaliers lead their playoff series against Toronto Raptors 2-0, with a strong performance from their star players.

fromwww.cbc.ca

Cavaliers overpower Raptors in playoff opener behind strong 2nd half | CBC Sports

Cleveland Cavaliers defeated Toronto Raptors 126-113 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference playoffs, led by Donovan Mitchell's 32 points and Max Strus's 24 points.

fromwww.cbc.ca

19 hours ago

Cleveland Cavaliers rally for 125-120 victory over the Toronto Raptors to take 3-2 series lead | CBC News

Cleveland Cavaliers won Game 5 against Toronto Raptors 125-120, leading the series 3-2 with a crucial fourth-quarter performance.

NBA: Cavs take further lead as Hawks and Timberwolves tie playoff series

Cleveland Cavaliers lead their playoff series against Toronto Raptors 2-0, with a strong performance from their star players.

fromwww.cbc.ca

Cavaliers overpower Raptors in playoff opener behind strong 2nd half | CBC Sports

Cleveland Cavaliers defeated Toronto Raptors 126-113 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference playoffs, led by Donovan Mitchell's 32 points and Max Strus's 24 points.

more#cleveland-cavaliers

De'Aaron Fox Makes The Game Fun For The Spurs | Defector

San Antonio Spurs overcame a halftime deficit to win Game 4 against the Portland Trail Blazers, led by De'Aaron Fox's performance.

Raptors should revisit this rotation option as spirited playoff push continues

Key players must be recognized and rewarded in tight playoff rotations, with a focus on effective contributions.

Raptors Game 5 chances may depend on whether James Harden continues recent trend

The Raptors have tied the series 2-2 by limiting the offensive production of Mitchell and Harden, enhancing their chances in Game 5.

Standout reserve must deliver on regular season promise in critical playoff stretch

Winning relies on team effort, not just one player's performance, as seen in the Raptors' playoff series.

The Raptors are winning the Battle of the Bigs

The Raptors secured a hard-fought victory through clutch plays and resilience in the final moments of the game.

Raptors out punch Cavs in slug fest as Barnes & Murray-Boyles perfect bully ball

The Raptors' defensive adjustments effectively countered the Cavaliers' offense, leading to a low-scoring game with significant struggles from both teams.

Raptors win rock fight against Cavs - Barnes & CMB Dominate - Pull Up Tre LIVE GAME 4 REACTION

The Raptors secured a hard-fought Game 4 victory through clutch plays and strong performances, particularly from Murray-Boyles and Barnes.

Raptors should revisit this rotation option as spirited playoff push continues

Key players must be recognized and rewarded in tight playoff rotations, with a focus on effective contributions.

Raptors Game 5 chances may depend on whether James Harden continues recent trend

The Raptors have tied the series 2-2 by limiting the offensive production of Mitchell and Harden, enhancing their chances in Game 5.

Standout reserve must deliver on regular season promise in critical playoff stretch

Winning relies on team effort, not just one player's performance, as seen in the Raptors' playoff series.

The Raptors are winning the Battle of the Bigs

The Raptors secured a hard-fought victory through clutch plays and resilience in the final moments of the game.

Raptors out punch Cavs in slug fest as Barnes & Murray-Boyles perfect bully ball

The Raptors' defensive adjustments effectively countered the Cavaliers' offense, leading to a low-scoring game with significant struggles from both teams.

Raptors win rock fight against Cavs - Barnes & CMB Dominate - Pull Up Tre LIVE GAME 4 REACTION

The Raptors secured a hard-fought Game 4 victory through clutch plays and strong performances, particularly from Murray-Boyles and Barnes.

Raptors' season now hinges on frightening Brandon Ingram injury news

Brandon Ingram's injury poses a significant challenge for the Raptors as they face elimination against the Cavaliers.

fromPortland Mercury

Blazers Miss Out on Opportunity To Take a Series Lead - Portland Mercury

The Portland Trailblazers lost to the San Antonio Spurs 120-108, falling behind 1-2 in the playoff series despite an early lead.

Heat's doomsday scenario just became more real after Pat Riley admission

Bam Adebayo's frustrations with the Heat could lead to a potential trade demand if not addressed.

4 hours ago

Jakob Poeltl silenced every single Raptors critic with his energized Game 5 effort

Jakob Poeltl showcased his best playoff performance in Game 5, contributing significantly despite the Raptors' loss.

Heat will absolutely love what Andrew Wiggins just hinted at

Andrew Wiggins' potential decision to opt into his contract could significantly benefit the Miami Heat's flexibility and trade options.

Raptors HC emphasizes why playoff vibes are a game changer for RJ Barrett

RJ Barrett excels in playoff performance, showcasing scoring ability and heightened defensive intensity, crucial for the Raptors' success.

Barrett's message ahead of Game 5 says everything about his growth

RJ Barrett emphasizes the importance of defense and consistency in his game, aligning with the Toronto Raptors' identity of toughness and strong defensive play.

Raptors HC emphasizes why playoff vibes are a game changer for RJ Barrett

RJ Barrett excels in playoff performance, showcasing scoring ability and heightened defensive intensity, crucial for the Raptors' success.

Barrett's message ahead of Game 5 says everything about his growth

RJ Barrett emphasizes the importance of defense and consistency in his game, aligning with the Toronto Raptors' identity of toughness and strong defensive play.

Diving for culture: Jamal Shead's play that earned a message from Kelvin Sampson

Jamal Shead's performance in Game 4 exemplified the culture of effort instilled in him during his time at the University of Houston.

fromwww.theguardian.com

NBA playoff predictions 2026: the winner, key players and dark horses

Jokic is currently the best player, but Wembanyama's potential could change that in the future.