NBA Basketball 3 Hours

Last updated: May 18, 2026, 8:45 PM ET

NBA Conference Finals Preview & Game 7 Fallout

Ahead of the Eastern Conference finals, our insiders break down the biggest questions and statistical keys as the Cavaliers prepare to face the winner of the Knicks–Celtics series. Cleveland punched its ticket Sunday night by routing the top-seeded Pistons 125-94 at Little Caesars Arena, advancing to the franchise's first conference finals since LeBron James' final season. After the buzzer, Cleveland trolled Detroit multiple times, chanting “It’s always beat Michigan” in a nod to the Cavs’ G League affiliate targeting the Pistons’ home state. Despite the blowout elimination, Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said the season was “not a disappointment,” stressing the team’s growth even as the 31-point loss ended a breakthrough campaign.

Meanwhile, the Knicks received positive injury news: OG Anunoby practiced again Saturday and said his right hamstring strain is not as severe as the one he suffered in the 2024 playoffs, boosting New York’s hopes for a deep run.

Offseason Outlook & MVP Honors

With 26 teams already eliminated, ESPN’s offseason guides detail draft, free agency, and trade targets for every club, including the Pistons, Timberwolves, and Lakers. Detroit faces a pivotal summer after its stunning first-round exit, while the Lakers must navigate a roster overhaul around LeBron and Anthony Davis.

In individual accolades, Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won his second straight MVP award, becoming the 14th player in league history to go back-to-back. The 26-year-old averaged 33.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists this season, cementing his status as the NBA’s elite two-way force.

Other News

Off the court, former three-time NBA champion Rick Fox was appointed as an opposition senator in the Bahamas on Monday, moving into politics after losing the general election in September. Fox, who won titles with the Lakers, will serve as a senator for the Free National Movement.