NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: March 31, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

NBA Playoff Races & Injury Updates

While several contenders are shoring up their rosters for the postseason push, key players are making strides toward returning, though some new injuries are emerging. The Warriors received positive news as Stephen Curry received clearance to participate in a full five-on-five scrimmage, marking the most significant step yet in his recovery from a nagging right knee issue, providing a major boost to Golden State’s immediate outlook. Conversely, the Timberwolves experienced mixed fortune; while Anthony Edwards returned to action after missing six games, the team announced that Jaden McDaniels will be sidelined on a week-to-week basis due to knee trouble McDaniels sustained. Furthermore, the Knicks saw guard Miles McBride exit their recent loss after making his first appearance since February hernia surgery, suggesting a potential setback McBride exited shortly after his return.

MVP Chatter & Individual Milestones

As the regular season winds down, MVP discussions are heating up, though the leading candidates remain publicly reserved about the accolade. Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander declined to engage in the debate surrounding his candidacy, stating simply that he prefers to "let my game do the talking," despite acknowledging the discourse is positive. Meanwhile, Lakers analyst JJ Redick argued that if Luka Doncic and the Mavericks sustain their current high level of performance through the end of the season, Doncic should secure the award. On the court, San Antonio rookie Victor Wembanyama continued his historic rookie campaign, notching 41 points and 16 rebounds in a Monday victory, recording his third-fastest double-double since the 1997-98 season Wembanyama posted.

Team Transactions & Ownership Shifts

The league saw significant movement on the ownership front over the past few days, indicating major franchise shifts are underway. The NBA Board of Governors officially ratified the sale of controlling interest in the Portland Trail Blazers from the Paul Allen estate to the investment group helmed by Tom Dundon. In personnel moves, the Chicago Bulls took disciplinary action, waiving guard Jaden Ivey following a series of offensive, anti-gay comments made publicly. On a positive side for league expansion, former Raptors President Masai Ujiri has now joined the ownership structure of Toronto’s forthcoming WNBA franchise, the Tempo.

Offseason Speculation & Team Weaknesses

With multiple teams already locking in their draft lottery positioning, front offices are prioritizing offseason strategy, while others are analyzing potential championship threats. Bobby Marks analyzed the situations for the ten teams whose seasons will end soon, examining the biggest priorities facing every lottery-bound franchise regarding the futures of stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ja Morant. Concurrently, analysts are dissecting the inherent flaws of the current playoff contenders, evaluating which specific weaknesses could jeopardize the title hopes for the top contenders in the upcoming postseason.

League Personalities & Off-Court Anecdotes

Beyond the court action, league figures provided notable commentary on recent events and long-term career moves. Mark Cuban publicly expressed his regret over the recent sale of the Dallas Mavericks to the families of Adelson and Dumont, admitting he "made a lot of mistakes in the process" Cuban expressed regret over the transaction. In a lighter moment, LeBron James confirmed a humorous anecdote, admitting he once shattered a driveway backboard while playing against his son, Bronny, joking that his power level at the time was comparable to his peak Miami tenure James confirmed smashing the backboard during recreational play. Furthermore, Denver's Nikola Jokic offered a self-deprecating explanation for the high praise he recently received from Caitlin Clark, attributing her positive remarks to the fact that they share the same agent.

Hall of Fame & Roster Management

The upcoming Basketball Hall of Fame class is set to include several esteemed figures, while fantasy managers scrambled to secure last-minute pickups ahead of their playoff deadlines. Sources confirmed that the induction class will feature former NBA star Amar'e Stoudemire alongside coaching legend Doc Rivers Stoudemire & Rivers incoming. For those still navigating fantasy playoffs, advice circulated on available talent, naming players like Harper, Sexton, and Hayes as essential players fantasy managers should look to add to their rosters for the crucial final weeks.

Team Performance Highlights & Player Returns

Several teams delivered dominant performances as they clinched playoff berths or returned key players from injury. The Celtics secured their 50th win, prompting Jaylen Brown to jab at critics by framing the season as anything but a "gap" year Brown celebrated 50 wins. In a stunning display of first-half dominance, the Raptors overwhelmed the Magic by utilizing an unanswered 31-0 run, leading to a 139-87 victory, establishing the longest such run recorded in the modern play-by-play era Raptors routed Magic. Meanwhile, the 76ers finally achieved full health, as the trio of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey combined to defeat the Hornets in a vital road contest Maxey returned leading.

League Future & Player Decisions

As the summer looms, speculation is mounting regarding the future choices of high-profile free agents, with team executives weighing in on potential destinations for stars like LeBron James execs weighed six options. Separately, a coach from another sport reportedly offered reassurance to a fellow manager; Blue Jays manager John Schneider stated he received a handwritten letter of support from NBA coach Steve Kerr regarding his own high-stakes postseason disappointment Schneider received reassurance.