NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: May 16, 2026, 5:44 PM ET

Playoffs: Cavs-Pistons Series Heads to Game 7

The Detroit Pistons forced a decisive Game 7 with a commanding second-half performance that buried the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning their fourth elimination game in the 2026 NBA playoffs. The dramatic series has seen multiple momentum swings, with the Cavaliers previously rallying from a nine-point deficit in Game 6 to win 117-113 in overtime and take a 3-2 lead. The NBA confirmed Thursday that officials were correct in not calling a foul on Jarrett Allen in the closing seconds of regulation of Game, defending the no-call that sparked controversy. Detroit will be without starting guard Duncan Robinson for Game 5 due to lower back soreness, a significant loss for a team that has thrived on perimeter shooting throughout the series. The series is now set for a dramatic conclusion with the Pistons installed as slight favorites despite being 60-1 long shots earlier in the playoffs.

Playoffs: Spurs-Timberwolves Series Update

Anthony Edwards acknowledged the San Antonio Spurs as "the better team" after Game, walking over to their bench to offer respect as the Timberwolves fell short for the third consecutive postseason. Despite the loss, Edwards struck a defiant tone with his team facing elimination after the Game 5 defeat, stating that nobody in the locker room is "too worried" about their 3-2 series deficit. The Spurs' dominance has been fueled by their veteran leadership, as franchise legends including Gregg Popovich, Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and David Robinson are teaching the young roster the "Spurs Way" during this playoff run. The French Connection has also emerged as a compelling subplot, with Rudy Gobert and Victor Wembanyama facing off in their 2-2 series — friends for a decade now competing at the highest level.

Injury Updates Across Playoff Teams

OG Anunoby practiced with the Knicks on Saturday and indicated his right hamstring injury is not as severe as the one he suffered during the 2024 playoffs, a significant development for a Knicks team eyeing a deep run. Meanwhile, Thunder star Jalen Williams, who has missed six games with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain, declared himself healthy entering the Western Conference finals against the Spurs. The timing is critical as the NBA will announce this season's MVP winner on Sunday night, the day before Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama meet in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals. James Harden moved into 10th place on the NBA's all-time playoff scoring list, overtaking Stephen Curry with a step-back 3-pointer in the first quarter of Cleveland's Game.

Warriors Coaching Staff Changes

Steve Kerr acknowledged he "has to be better" in his 13th season with the Golden State Warriors, marking his first media availability since deciding to return as head coach. The Warriors are undergoing significant changes behind the scenes, with assistants Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse departing the franchise according to league sources. Meanwhile, an eBay user paid $9,000,100 to win a private lunch with Warriors star Stephen Curry, combining the basketball icon's appeal with his growing status as a technology investor.

Offseason Outlook and League News

Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst canvassed the league on five teams with league-altering decisions this summer, including LeBron James' future in Los Angeles. The NBA is implementing a significant officiating change, with referees calling approximately 11% more personal fouls per game in these playoffs compared to the regular season — one of the largest differentials in league history. Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed the league has landed on a 3-2-1 lottery proposal to present to the board of governors later this month. The 76ers' GM search continues under Bob Myers, who stated the franchise is seeking "good people that are in harmony" to help deliver a championship. Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player who served as a global ambassador for the sport, died of brain cancer at age.

Draft and Transaction Notes

The 2026 NBA draft landscape is taking shape with the Wizards, Jazz, and Grizzlies holding the top picks in Jeremy Woo's updated mock draft. Stanford's Ebuka Okorie, North Carolina's Henri Veesaar, and Duke's Isaiah Evans each plan to stay in the NBA draft after going through the evaluation process. Bulls guard Josh Giddey, who was limited this season by hamstring and ankle injuries, underwent ankle surgery and is expected to return in time for training camp after a three-month recovery period. Myles Turner provided insight into the Bucks' internal dynamics on his podcast, revealing that former coach Doc Rivers "didn't fine anybody ever" and that Giannis Antetokounmpo would "show up whenever he wants."