NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: April 2, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NBA Franchise Milestones & Postseason Picture

The closing stretch of the regular season saw several players setting franchise scoring records, even as team management focused on future objectives and injury preservation. Charlotte rookie Kon Knueppel established a new Hornets single-season record for three-pointers made, while Phoenix guard Collin Gillespie set the Suns' club mark on Thursday night in a similar statistical surge. Elsewhere, the Portland Trail Blazers' new owner Tom Dundon articulated a mindset shift, asserting the organization is moving beyond mere youth development toward "loftier goals" because "it's more fun to win" in the immediate term. This focus on winning contrasts with the cautious approach taken by the San Antonio Spurs, who rested Victor Wembanyama for their matchup against the Clippers for right ankle injury management, despite Wembanyama doubling down on his MVP chase after posting 41 points and 18 rebounds in a recent runaway victory.

MVP Races and Player Status Updates

Discussions surrounding the league's highest honors continue to intensify, with differing opinions emerging from prominent Laker figures and strong performances from top contenders. Lakers coach JJ Redick publicly endorsed Luka Doncic for the MVP award, provided the Mavericks close the regular season strongly, following Doncic's third consecutive 40-point game which propelled his March total to 600 points. In contrast, Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deflected MVP chatter, stating simply that he prefers to "let my game do the talking." Meanwhile, Minnesota's Anthony Edwards became ineligible for NBA awards after the Timberwolves ruled him out against the Pistons, failing to meet the 65-game minimum due to a lingering knee issue; Edwards also made news for a bizarre return from absence earlier in the week, missing tipoff in one contest because, as he explained, "'Nature calls'".

Team Performance Bouts & Front Office Moves

Several teams recently achieved significant milestones or navigated off-court issues, indicating varied levels of success heading into the final weeks. The Boston Celtics exploded for 53 points in the first quarter during their 147-129 win over the Heat, coming within just two points of the NBA record for points in an opening quarter. On the divisional front, the Detroit Pistons clinched their first Central Division title since the 2007-08 season following a victory against the Raptors. Off the court, the NBA issued a $100,000 fine to the Trail Blazers and suspended two assistant GMs for two weeks due to illegal contact made with Yang Hansen back in December 2023. Furthermore, Mark Cuban expressed regret over selling the Mavericks to the Adelson and Dumont families, admitting he "made a lot of mistakes in the process."

Offseason Speculation & League Investigations

As the season winds down, attention shifts toward player movement and ongoing league matters, including high-profile contract details and legendary careers. Stephen Curry received medical clearance to participate in his first five-on-five scrimmage, marking the largest step yet toward returning from his right knee injury. For LeBron James, future free agency looms, with sources weighing options ranging from the Lakers and Cavaliers to a potential wildcard landing spot. Separately, news emerged regarding the ongoing investigation into the LA Clippers' star Kawhi Leonard's contract, with league insiders analyzing contract specifics and the scope of the probe. In personnel news, former Raptors President Masai Ujiri joined ownership of Toronto's new WNBA franchise, the Tempo.

Draft Futures and Personal Updates

Scouts are actively debating prospects at the very top of the incoming draft class, focusing on specific attributes for the number one selection. Executives are torn between projecting talent like Peterson versus Dybantsa, weighing versatility against overall production, suggesting the decision hinges on team fit. In lighter, albeit controversial, news, the Washington Wizards issued an apology after an April Fools' "skit" appeared to trick a fan into believing he won $10,000 on a half-court shot, admitting the segment was scripted. Meanwhile, the NBA community celebrated upcoming Hall of Fame inductees, with sources confirming that former NBA star A'mare Stoudemire and Doc Rivers will be part of the class alongside WNBA legends Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne.

Player Legal Issues & Exotic Career PathsThe league calendar saw a Memphis Grizzlies player** [*face legal trouble while another prominent basketball figure pursued an unexpected international opportunity. Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke was arrested in Arkansas on Wednesday, facing charges that included speeding and possession of a controlled substance. In contrast to legal proceedings, rap superstar J. Cole signed a contract to play professionally in China with the Nanjing Monkey Kings, according to sources contacted Wednesday. In coaching news, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo revealed he "talked seriously" with Suns owner Mat Ishbia last summer about the Phoenix Head Coaching vacancy before Jordan Ott was ultimately hired. Finally, in fantasy basketball leagues, analysts suggested that players like Harper, Sexton, and Hayes are among the top pickups for managers advancing deep into their playoff structures.**