The January window may be closed, but the rumors never stop swirling. Check in every day for all ...

<p><em>The January window may be closed, but the rumors never stop swirling. Check in every day for all the latest transfer buzz from across the soccer world.</em></p><h3>Top story: West Ham make big push for David</h3><p>West Ham United are trying to bully Barcelona out of the race for pending free-agent striker Jonathan David with a massive contract offer worth up to €20 million per year. Barcelona would be unable to come close to such a figure given their precarious financial situation and yearly struggle to stay under their salary cap in La Liga.</p><p>Arsenal are considered West Ham's primary challenger. The Gunners are expected to enter the bidding for the Canadian striker with 21 goals this season once the club's new sporting director arrives. (<a href="https://www.sky-sport.ch/fr/articles/jonathan-david-alexander-isak-geovany-quenda-aghehowa-voici-les-infos-transferts-de-la-semaine/">Sky Sport Switzerland</a>)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Other rumors</h3><p><strong>March 3</strong></p><p><strong>Onana won't quit Man United</strong>: Andre Onana intends to stay at Manchester United despite manager Ruben Amorim's plans to sign a new goalkeeper. Onana has a contract until June 2028 but could miss a chunk of time next season if he opts to play for Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations. (<a href="https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/andre-onana-makes-decision-manchester-31114926">Manchester Evening News</a>)</p><p><strong>Arsenal fighting to keep Saliba</strong>: The Gunners are prepared to give standout center-back William Saliba around £250,000 a week to renew his contract and ward off interest from Real Madrid. Saliba currently earns around £190,000 weekly. (<a href="https://tbrfootball.com/how-much-william-saliba-stands-to-earn-in-wages-as-arsenal-readying-contract-offer-amid-real-madrid-interest/">TBR Football</a>)</p><p><strong>Upamecano staying put</strong>: Bayern Munich are close to renewing Dayot Upamecano's contract until June 2030. The French international defender's current deal only runs until next summer. (<a href="https://x.com/Plettigoal/status/1896571163708690471">Florian Plettenberg</a>)</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761605/cropped_GettyImages-2190865947.jpg?ts=1734732701" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761605/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190865947.jpg?ts=1734732701 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761605/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190865947.jpg?ts=1734732701 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761605/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190865947.jpg?ts=1734732701 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761605/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190865947.jpg?ts=1734732701 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761605/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190865947.jpg?ts=1734732701 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alessandro Sabattini / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Good news for AC Milan</strong>: Top scorer Tijjani Reijnders extended his contract with the Rossoneri until June 2029. The Dutch midfielder will earn around €3 million per season. (<a href="https://x.com/NicoSchira/status/1896582314815352849">Nico Schira</a>)</p><p><strong>Madrid monitoring Wharton</strong>: Los Blancos' shortlist of summer recruitments includes Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, who's back in the lineup after missing three months with a hernia. (<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14455241/Real-Madrid-Adam-Wharton-Crystal-Palace.html">Daily Mail</a>)</p><p><strong>Spurs bail on Werner</strong>: Tottenham won't take up the option to permanently sign on-loan RB Leipzig forward Timo Werner for £8.5 million at the end of the season. Werner has just one goal in 27 games this term. (<a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/tottenham-transfer-news-timo-werner-34769218">Daily Mirror</a>)</p><p><strong>March 2</strong></p><p><strong>Isak won't go cheap</strong>: Liverpool are the latest team to be linked with Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, joining Arsenal and Chelsea. The Magpies are expected to demand around £120 million for the 25-year-old, whose contract expires in 2028. (<a href="https://www.givemesport.com/liverpool-transfer-news-eyeing-statement-summer-signing-alexander-isak-anfield/">GiveMeSport</a>)</p><p><strong>Reduced role for KDB?</strong>:<strong> </strong>Manchester City want to keep Kevin De Bruyne, but any agreement would likely mean the midfielder has to accept a reduced role and lowered wages to continue his career in Manchester. (<a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/kevin-debruyne-mancity-saudi-mls-34777269">The Mirror</a>)</p><p><strong>Monaco midfielder being scouted</strong>: Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea are among top European clubs that are keeping tabs on AS Monaco's Lamine Camara. (<a href="https://tbrfootball.com/tottenham-and-liverpool-among-premier-league-clubs-keen-on-senegals-best-prospect-since-sadio-mane/">TBR Football</a>)</p><p><strong>Reds eyeing Baleba</strong>: Liverpool are monitoring Carlos Baleba's situation at Brighton ahead of a potential pursuit this summer. The Premier League leaders won't be deterred by Brighton's high demands. (<a href="https://www.footballinsider247.com/carlos-baleba-to-liverpool-orourke-drops-verdict-on-record-breaking-deal/">Football Insider</a>)</p><p><strong>Bayern track Brighton goalie</strong>: Bart Verbruggen is on Bayern Munich's radar. The club is keeping track of the £50-million-rated 22-year-old, who used to play for Bayern boss Vincent Kompany at Anderlecht. (<a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/bayern-munich-kompany-brighton-verbruggen-34775953">The Mirror</a>)</p><p><strong>March 1</strong></p><p><strong>Arsenal chase Kimmich, Zubimendi</strong>: Arsenal are hopeful over signing Joshua Kimmich on a free transfer this summer after contract talks stalled at Bayern. The Gunners are also still interested in Martin Zubimendi. (<a href="https://metro.co.uk/2025/02/28/arsenal-hold-talks-sign-bayern-munich-superstar-free-transfer-22644048/">Metro</a>)</p><p><strong>Villa enter the equation</strong>: Aston Villa have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian striker, 25, is expected to leave Juventus this summer after failing to win over manager Thiago Motta. (<a href="https://www.teamtalk.com/aston-villa/explode-into-race-for-e50m-rated-arsenal-striker-target-amid-contract-feud">TEAMtalk</a>)</p><p><strong>Defensive recruits</strong>: Liverpool are planning to sign a new central defender and right-back in the summer, regardless of what happens with impending free-agent stars Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk. (<a href="https://www.footballinsider247.com/liverpool-to-sign-new-centre-back-and-right-back-amid-van-dijk-latest/">Football Insider</a>)</p><p><strong>Moving pieces</strong>: Arsenal view RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko as a more affordable alternative to Newcastle's Alexander Isak. If they move for the Slovenian, it'll pave the way for Liverpool to land the Swede. (<a href="https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/liverpool-alexander-isak-transfer-path-31099004">Liverpool Echo</a>)</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767329/cropped_GettyImages-2195428642.jpg?ts=1737903623" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767329/w220xh124_GettyImages-2195428642.jpg?ts=1737903623 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767329/w320xh180_GettyImages-2195428642.jpg?ts=1737903623 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767329/w640xh360_GettyImages-2195428642.jpg?ts=1737903623 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767329/w768xh432_GettyImages-2195428642.jpg?ts=1737903623 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767329/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2195428642.jpg?ts=1737903623 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Chelsea standing pat</strong>: Despite the continued struggles of unconvincing goalkeepers Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, Chelsea are not planning to sign a new netminder in the summer window. (<a href="https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/chelsea-transfers-sanchez-jorgensen-goalkeeper-bt97zxglt">The Times</a>)</p><p><strong>Atleti on the scene</strong>: Luis Diaz has been tipped to leave Liverpool this summer, with Barcelona often connected. But La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid are also interested. The Colombian would cost around €70 million. (<a href="https://www.fichajes.net/noticias/bombazo-luis-diaz-nuevo-deseo-atletico-madrid-20250228.html">Fichajes</a>)</p><p><strong>Details of Roque's move</strong>: Vitor Roque's transfer to Palmeiras is complete. Barcelona will pocket €25.5 million from the sale, and could earn €5 million in add-ons. They'll also have a 20% sell-on clause. (<a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1895750102087790848">Fabrizio Romano</a>)</p><p><strong>Feb. 28</strong></p><p><strong>Neymar eyes Barca reunion</strong>: Neymar is in talks over a sensational return to Barcelona. The Brazilian just joined Santos on a short-term deal, but he's expected to leave his boyhood club in the summer. (<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6164172/2025/02/27/barcelona-neymar-latest-liverpool-mohamed-salah-transfer/?source=twitteruk">The Athletic</a>)</p><p><strong>Dilemma for Arsenal</strong>: Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard may be forced to leave this summer if Arsenal want to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle. Isak is among the Gunners' top targets alongside Benjamin Sesko. (<a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/arsenal-summer-targets-martinelli-trossard-34765628">The Mirror</a>)</p><p><strong>Rashford wants to stay with Villa</strong>: Marcus Rashford doesn't plan on going back to Manchester United. The forward is hoping to make his move to Aston Villa permanent after joining on loan in January. (<a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/33578127/man-utd-files-rashford-ratcliffe-mole-cuts/">The Sun</a>)</p><p><strong>Barca consider Leao approach</strong>: Barcelona are gathering information over a potential bid for AC Milan's Rafael Leao. The 25-year-old, whose contract runs until 2028, rejected an offer from Saudi Arabia in January. (<a href="https://x.com/NicoSchira/status/1894964670093533619">Nicolo Schira</a>)</p><p><strong>Murillo going nowhere</strong>: Nottingham Forest are expected to retain Murillo's services despite interest from Real Madrid and Chelsea. The defender has held positive talks with the club's owner, Evangelos Marinakis. (<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14442339/Murillo-Nottingham-Forest-Real-Madrid-South-America-wonderkids-transfer-news.html">Daily Mail</a>)</p><p><strong>Feb. 27</strong></p><p><strong>Man Utd's plan for Osimhen</strong>: Manchester United are eager to sign Victor Osimhen from Napoli in a deal worth €40 million plus Rasmus Hojlund. The Nigerian forward is currently on loan at Galatasaray. (<a href="https://www.calciomercato.com/news/manchester-united-clamorosa-idea-scambio-hojlund-piu-40-milioni--51541">Calciomercato</a>)</p><p><strong>Liverpool eyeing Joao Pedro</strong>: With Darwin Nunez struggling, Liverpool are considering a move for Brighton's Joao Pedro. The Brazilian is Arne Slot's top target if Nunez departs this summer. (<a href="https://www.teamtalk.com/liverpool/the-fee-rejected-for-darwin-nunez-clarified-as-brighton-star-eyed-to-replace-him">TEAMtalk</a>)</p><p><strong>Huge money for Vinicius</strong>: Saudi Pro League clubs are willing to approach Real Madrid with a €242-million offer for Brazilian superstar Vinicius Junior after the season ends. (<a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/02/26/saudi-arabia-200m-record-transfer-vinicius-jr-real-madrid/">The Telegraph</a>)</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768246/cropped_GettyImages-2194857539.jpg?ts=1738351032" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768246/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194857539.jpg?ts=1738351032 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768246/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194857539.jpg?ts=1738351032 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768246/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194857539.jpg?ts=1738351032 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768246/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194857539.jpg?ts=1738351032 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768246/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194857539.jpg?ts=1738351032 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Spurs lining up Eze move</strong>: Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze is considered a legitimate option for Tottenham heading into the summer. The 26-year-old is valued at around £68 million. (<a href="https://www.givemesport.com/exclusive-68m-superstar-open-to-tottenham-move-this-summer/">GiveMeSport</a>)</p><p><strong>New Theo Hernandez suitor</strong>: Manchester City have made Theo Hernandez one of their transfer targets. City could attract him to England, but Hernandez has previously said he wants to join Real Madrid. (<a href="https://www.teamtalk.com/manchester-city/rival-real-madrid-for-classy-full-back-after-transfer-demands-dramatically-slashed">TEAMtalk</a>)</p><p><strong>Milan's Hernandez replacement</strong>: With Hernandez's exit looking likely, AC Milan have already identified Wolverhampton's left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, 23, as a potential replacement for the France international. (<a href="https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Serie-A/Milan/26-02-2025/milan-su-ait-nouri-per-il-dopo-theo-chi-e-e-come-gioca-il-mancino-del-wolverhampton_preview.shtml?reason=unauthenticated&amp;origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzetta.it%2FCalcio%2FSerie-A%2FMilan%2F26-02-2025%2Fmilan-su-ait-nouri-per-il-dopo-theo-chi-e-e-come-gioca-il-mancino-del-wolverhampton.shtml">Gazzetta dello Sport</a>)</p><p><strong>Feb. 26</strong></p><p><strong>Napoli could rescue Hojlund</strong>: Napoli are prepared to make a summer move for Rasmus Hojlund, with United willing to take a financial hit. The Red Devils accept they likely won't be able to recoup the huge fee they paid. (<a href="https://talksport.com/football/2961040/transfer-news-man-utd-hojlund-chelsea-ramsdale-west-ham/">talkSPORT</a>)</p><p><strong>New deal for Pulisic</strong>: AC Milan and Christian Pulisic are on the verge of agreeing to a contract extension that would keep the U.S. forward at the San Siro until 2029. (<a href="https://www.giornalone.it/prima-pagina-la-gazzetta-dello-sport/">Gazzetta dello Sport</a>)</p><p><strong>Pep's new full-backs</strong>: After spending heavily on central defenders in January, Manchester City are now eyeing full-back upgrades. Newcastle's Tino Livramento and Juventus' Andrea Cambiaso are the targets. (<a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/02/25/man-city-transfer-news-tino-livramento-andrea-cambiaso/">The Telegraph</a>)</p><p><strong>Convo with Cole</strong>: Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca will have a meeting with star playmaker Cole Palmer to ascertain whether he'd be happy to remain at the club even if the Blues fail to qualify for the Champions League. (<a href="https://www.thetimes.com/sport/football/article/cole-palmer-happy-stay-chelsea-champions-league-fgkzfl9tg">The Times</a>)</p><p><strong>Another suitor for De Jong</strong>: Arsenal are the latest club to enter the fray for Frenkie de Jong. The Gunners are willing to offer Barcelona €75 million for the Dutch midfielder in the summer. (<a href="https://www.fichajes.net/en/news/offer-of-75-million-to-get-frenkie-jong-out-of-barcelona-20250225.html">Fichajes</a>)</p><p><strong>Kovacic's next move</strong>: Mateo Kovacic could be one of the players to leave Manchester City as part of the club's planned summer rebuild. Atletico Madrid have emerged as a potential destination for the Croatian. (<a href="https://www.caughtoffside.com/2025/02/25/kovacic-man-city-atletico-madrid/">Caught Offside</a>)</p><p><strong>Lining up for Samu</strong>: Arsenal, Chelsea, Aston Villa, and West Ham are all interested in signing Samu Aghehowa, the imposing 20-year-old Spanish striker who leads Porto in scoring this season. (<a href="https://www.caughtoffside.com/2025/02/26/samu-aghehowa-aston-villa/">Caught Offside</a>)</p>

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 07: Jose Quintana #62 of the New York Mets gestures to the crowd as he walks to the dugout during the seventh inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Citi Field on September 07, 2024 in New York City.

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MLB Offseason Tracker

Welcome to our monthly look at the various individual awards in the NBA and who merits a mention ...

<p><em>Welcome to our monthly look at the various individual awards in the NBA and who merits a mention for their performances across the season.</em></p><h3>Rookie of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. Kel'el Ware (Heat):</strong> Ware's inclusion on this shortlist speaks volumes about his growth from the start of the season. The big man is averaging 10.8 points, 9.9 boards, and 1.3 blocks since entering the Heat's starting lineup on Jan. 21. Ware's also shooting 52.2% from the field and has six doubles-doubles over that span. The Indiana product has been a nice fit in Miami's frontcourt alongside Bam Adebayo, providing vertical spacing as a lob threat and flashes of 3-point shooting.</p><p><strong>2. Jaylen Wells (Grizzlies):</strong> Memphis may have got the biggest steal of the draft class when it selected Wells with the No. 39 overall pick. The 6-foot-7 wing has provided steady two-way production as a starter on a contending squad, averaging 11.4 points, 3.2 boards, and 1.6 assists across 60 appearances. His 115 threes lead all first-year players by a fair margin. Malcolm Brogdon is the only rookie since the ABA-NBA merger to win the award as a second-round pick.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>1. Stephon Castle (Spurs):</strong> The UConn product paces all rookies in points per contest (13.2) and total free-throw attempts (205). While Castle's shotmaking has been inconsistent, he aggressively attacks the rim and effectively plays off the ball as a cutter. The 6-foot-6 guard can also defend multiple positions and has been a solid secondary playmaker. Victor Wembanyama's season-ending injury could make Castle a bigger focal point in the Spurs' offense down the stretch.</p><h3>Defensive Player of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. Dyson Daniels (Hawks):</strong> Daniels has failed to pick up a steal in just three of his 55 games this season. The last time he didn't record a swipe was in a Dec. 11 win over the New York Knicks. More recently, he tallied seven steals against the Miami Heat on Feb. 24, tied for the second-most in a contest this season. The production also left him just three shy of the 12th triple-double with steals in NBA history.</p><p><strong>2. Evan Mobley (Cavaliers):</strong> Mobley remains essential to Cleveland's seventh-ranked defense, as his 107 defensive rating ranks second on the Cavs among players with at least 200 minutes. Sam Merrill is the only player with a better rating, but that requires further dissection to truly grasp Mobley's impact. Of Merrill's 985 total minutes this season, 474 have been shared with Mobley, making the latter one of the guard's most frequent on-court collaborators.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768179/cropped_GettyImages-2196206700.jpg?ts=1738299952" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768179/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196206700.jpg?ts=1738299952 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768179/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196206700.jpg?ts=1738299952 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768179/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196206700.jpg?ts=1738299952 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768179/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196206700.jpg?ts=1738299952 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/768179/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196206700.jpg?ts=1738299952 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Murphy / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>1.</strong> <strong>Jaren Jackson Jr. (Grizzlies):</strong> Wembanyama was the only other player to impact opponents' shooting on a level comparable to Jackson in 2024-25, but the Spurs star's season-ending deep vein thrombosis diagnosis means he won't reach the 65-game minimum for award eligibility. Opponents' field-goal percentages this season have dropped 6.6% when defended by Jackson or Wembanyama, which <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/players/defense-dash-overall?CF=GP*GE*40:D_FGA*GE*10&amp;dir=A&amp;sort=PCT_PLUSMINUS">ranks</a> atop the NBA among players with at least 40 games played and averaging 10 defended field goals per contest.</p><h3>Most Improved Player</h3><p><strong>3. Trey Murphy III (Pelicans): </strong>Outright discarding Murphy's notable jump this campaign<strong> </strong>because of the Pelicans' disastrous season seems ill-advised, especially since there's no wins requirement for the MIP award. The sharpshooting wing is up to 21.8<strong> </strong>points per game after averaging just under 15 over his last two seasons. Murphy's 37% clip from distance is the eighth-best mark in the NBA by players who attempt at least eight threes per game, putting him right behind multi-time All-Stars like Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell, and Stephen Curry.</p><p><strong>2. Norman Powell (Clippers):</strong> Powell has carried the Clippers offensively even since Kawhi Leonard's return on Jan. 1, with the 31-year-old guard averaging<strong> </strong>23.2 points on 50/38.3/79.1 shooting splits in the new year. That includes a 41-point outburst on Feb. 13 against the Utah Jazz. However, Powell's ongoing knee injury absence could prove costly for him and the team. L.A. has gone 1-6 without him in 2025, and Powell must play in 19<strong> </strong>of the club's final 22 games to maintain his award eligibility.</p><p><strong>1. Cade Cunningham (Pistons):</strong> Cunningham's statistical bumps across the board still don't give you the full picture of how much harder it's been to contain him this season. The 23-year-old has eight<strong> </strong>triple-doubles compared to zero in 2023-24. Also, a bewildering 71.2% of his field goals have been unassisted, the fourth-highest mark by any player with at least 40 games and a massive jump from his 63.7% mark last season.</p><h3>Sixth Man of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. De'Andre Hunter (Cavaliers): </strong>Hunter leads all bench players in points per game this season (18.4) on an efficient 46.9%<strong> </strong>shooting. He also boasts a career-best 42.2% clip from three. However, the 27-year-old's output has taken a hit since being traded to the Cavs at the deadline. On a much more competitive team, Hunter is averaging 2.7 fewer minutes, three<strong> </strong>fewer points, and 3.9 fewer shots than in Atlanta. This move gave him a better chance at an NBA title but hurt his odds of taking home individual hardware.</p><p><strong>2. Payton Pritchard (Celtics): </strong>Pritchard has scored more points than any other NBA player off the bench this season with 833. He's also logged the most minutes (1,672) by any reserve, made the most threes (193), and is the leader in plus-minus (plus-321). Additionally, Pritchard sits in the top 10 in assists (206) and steals (51) among players on second units. The 27-year-old's 13.9 points per game is good for fifth on the Celtics, and his 41.6% shooting from beyond the arc is the second-best on the team. Boston sitting second in the East will boost his award chances.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772527/cropped_GettyImages-2201557842.jpg?ts=1740624042" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772527/w220xh124_GettyImages-2201557842.jpg?ts=1740624042 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772527/w320xh180_GettyImages-2201557842.jpg?ts=1740624042 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772527/w640xh360_GettyImages-2201557842.jpg?ts=1740624042 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772527/w768xh432_GettyImages-2201557842.jpg?ts=1740624042 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772527/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2201557842.jpg?ts=1740624042 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Schwegler / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>1. Malik Beasley (Pistons): </strong>Beasley's recent level of play has pushed him into top contention for this award. He averaged 18.4 points, 2.8<strong> </strong>rebounds, and 1.7 assists in February on an absurd 49% shooting and 48% from three. Not to mention, the Pistons went 8-1 to close the month. Beasley is having a career resurgence in Detroit, putting up his most points per game (16.7) since the 2020-21 season and shooting a career-best percentage from three (42.7). The Florida State product gets the slight edge over Pritchard because he outplayed him in the Pistons' recent win over the Celtics, pouring in a team-high 26 points.</p><h3>Coach of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. J.B. Bickerstaff (Pistons):</strong> To put into perspective just how dire Detroit had been before Bickerstaff's arrival this campaign, the club totaled 31 victories combined over the past two seasons. The Pistons already have 34 wins this year and are up to sixth in the East, inching closer to the organization's first postseason appearance since 2019. And Detroit is making its playoff push without starting point guard Jaden Ivey, who's been out with a broken leg since Jan. 1. Without Ivey, Bickerstaff has put the ball in Cunningham's hands, allowing him to flourish. The Pistons are 19-9 since Ivey's injury and recently went on an impressive eight-game winning streak.</p><p><strong>2. Mark Daigneault (Thunder): </strong>The Thunder still have a stranglehold on the West's No. 1 spot and are reaching a point where they can rest players down the stretch. In February, OKC went 11-2 - with one of those losses coming in overtime - and had the league's second-best point differential (plus-16.4). The Thunder are shattering everyone's expectations, even Vegas': Oklahoma is beating the spread by an average of 3.6 points, the third-highest mark in the NBA, per <a href="https://cleaningtheglass.com/stats/league/summary">Cleaning the Glass</a>.</p><p><strong>1. Kenny Atkinson (Cavaliers):</strong> The Cavaliers have compiled three double-digit winning streaks this campaign, sit atop the Eastern Conference with the most wins in the Association (50), and own the second-best net rating in the league (11.1). Despite Cleveland having a roster nearly identical to last season's team that got bounced in the playoff's second round, this iteration of the Cavs has already surpassed last year's win total of 48. So what's changed? The coaching. The players have been quick to credit Atkinson for the improvement. Cavs guard Ty Jerome <a href="https://www.si.com/nba/cavaliers/news/cleveland-cavaliers-ty-jerome-fires-blunt-shot-jb-bickerstaff">recently</a> said the coaching staff is the biggest difference between this season and last.</p><h3>Most Valuable Player</h3><p><em>Please check out our most recent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3094585" href="https://thescore.com/news/3094585">MVP Rankings</a> for a detailed look at the top 10 candidates for the award.</em></p><p><strong>3. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks): </strong>The Greek Freak is on track to shoot over 60% from the field for the second straight campaign. However, it's much more impressive this season, as he's attempting 20.3 shots per game. Antetokounmpo is also averaging the second-highest points per game (30.9) of his career, along with 12.1 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks. He has willed the Bucks to the four-seed in the East.</p><p><strong>2. Nikola Jokic (Nuggets): </strong>Jokic continues to amaze anytime he steps on a basketball court. The reigning MVP is averaging career highs in points (28.9), assists (10.4), steals (1.8), and 3-point percentage (44.3). Additionally, Jokic is averaging 12.7 rebounds, marking the first time in his career that he's averaging a triple-double. He's led the Nuggets to an 11-3 record over their last 14 games, pushing them to third in the West.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772054/cropped_GettyImages-2201073095.jpg?ts=1740377339" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772054/w220xh124_GettyImages-2201073095.jpg?ts=1740377339 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772054/w320xh180_GettyImages-2201073095.jpg?ts=1740377339 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772054/w640xh360_GettyImages-2201073095.jpg?ts=1740377339 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772054/w768xh432_GettyImages-2201073095.jpg?ts=1740377339 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772054/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2201073095.jpg?ts=1740377339 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Sherman / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder): </strong>SGA seems primed to become the second Canadian in NBA history to win the MVP award. He's the league's leading scorer with a career-high 32.3 points per game, and he has posted less than 20 points in a contest just once this season. Gilgeous-Alexander is also doing it on the defensive end, averaging 1.8 steals and a block per game. He's recorded 50-plus points three times since the start of 2025, and the Thunder went 11-2 in February. OKC's success is what sets SGA apart from the rest, with the club holding the NBA's second-best record at 49-11.</p>

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NBA awards watch: Pistons, Cavs lead race for individual honors

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NHL Power Rankings: Oscars edition

We've been busy at theScore! From exciting new features to enhancements that make your experience...

<p><strong>We've been busy at theScore!</strong> From exciting new features to enhancements that make your experience better than ever, we're constantly working to bring you the best in sports and entertainment. Here's a look at what's new, what's improved, and a sneak peek at what's coming next. </p><h3>Expanded PWHL Coverage 🏒</h3><p>We've heard your feedback and are thrilled to be expanding our PWHL coverage! You'll now be able to <strong>track live scores and stats</strong>, follow the league's six teams, and <strong>subscribe to player and team push notifications</strong> - all in addition to our comprehensive league-wide reporting. We hope you enjoy more real-time PWHL coverage!</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772748/cropped_421ae6f2-f4ad-47b3-be3e-f21d831ba51b.jpg?ts=1740752077" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772748/w220xh124_421ae6f2-f4ad-47b3-be3e-f21d831ba51b.jpg?ts=1740752077 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772748/w320xh180_421ae6f2-f4ad-47b3-be3e-f21d831ba51b.jpg?ts=1740752077 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772748/w640xh360_421ae6f2-f4ad-47b3-be3e-f21d831ba51b.jpg?ts=1740752077 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772748/w768xh432_421ae6f2-f4ad-47b3-be3e-f21d831ba51b.jpg?ts=1740752077 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772748/w1080xh607_421ae6f2-f4ad-47b3-be3e-f21d831ba51b.jpg?ts=1740752077 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Game Insights Analysis 📈</h3><p>Dive deeper into our new Game Insights! Simply tap on the new View Details button and see a more detailed breakdown of your favorite teams' and players' past games so you can stay ahead of the curve!</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772750/cropped_3dbc1f92-7438-48c0-8d64-808fc9b85121.jpg?ts=1740752080" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772750/w220xh124_3dbc1f92-7438-48c0-8d64-808fc9b85121.jpg?ts=1740752080 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772750/w320xh180_3dbc1f92-7438-48c0-8d64-808fc9b85121.jpg?ts=1740752080 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772750/w640xh360_3dbc1f92-7438-48c0-8d64-808fc9b85121.jpg?ts=1740752080 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772750/w768xh432_3dbc1f92-7438-48c0-8d64-808fc9b85121.jpg?ts=1740752080 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772750/w1080xh607_3dbc1f92-7438-48c0-8d64-808fc9b85121.jpg?ts=1740752080 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Coming Soon 👀</h3><p><strong>New Live Activity &amp; Event-Supported Leagues! 🏀</strong></p><p>Just in time for March Madness, automated Live Activities &amp; Live Events will soon be supported for NCAA Men's Basketball. We'll also be adding support for WNBA games in time for the 2025 season!</p><p>Don't miss a minute of the action - follow your favorite teams and have their games automatically pinned to your lock screen!</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772749/cropped_4cb32008-a2a1-4c5b-b159-e433688a1736.jpg?ts=1740752079" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772749/w220xh124_4cb32008-a2a1-4c5b-b159-e433688a1736.jpg?ts=1740752079 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772749/w320xh180_4cb32008-a2a1-4c5b-b159-e433688a1736.jpg?ts=1740752079 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772749/w640xh360_4cb32008-a2a1-4c5b-b159-e433688a1736.jpg?ts=1740752079 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772749/w768xh432_4cb32008-a2a1-4c5b-b159-e433688a1736.jpg?ts=1740752079 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772749/w1080xh607_4cb32008-a2a1-4c5b-b159-e433688a1736.jpg?ts=1740752079 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Reactions 😆 </strong></p><p>Show your team spirit! Respond to <strong>comments and articles</strong>. Cheer along with fans, side-eye the opposition, and directly tell us what you think of an article with our variety of emojis.</p><p>Reactions coming soon on Android! </p><h3>What's next? You tell us</h3><p>Lastly, we've got some big ideas, but we want to hear from you: <strong>What features do you want to see from theScore?</strong></p><p>We'd love to know. We'll be canvassing the comments section for your feedback, or you can reach out to us at <a href="mailto:support@thescore.com">support@thescore.com</a>.</p><p>Thanks for making theScore your home for sports.</p>

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What's new on theScore

Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and ...

<p><em>Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and contentious debates in the NHL and beyond.</em></p><p><em>Subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thescore">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4uKsxIahXBXkpuvYHeP9Jz?si=5c270e0ec3b0405e">Spotify</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/top-shelf/id1784581959">Apple</a>. Episodes drop every Tuesday.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_V3ZtuTwbGg?si=0zVSIYFR4q72bhaM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Hosts Aidan Thakkar, Levi Smith, and John Matisz set the scene for the March 7 trade deadline by tackling the following topics:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Potential chaos on the horizon in Carolina (00:00)</li>
<li>Rantanen for Pettersson: Who says no? (03:25)</li>
<li>Marchand-Bruins deadline decision (06:30)</li>
<li>Nelson for Leafs package: Who says no? (09:10)</li>
<li>Rakell, Schenn, other impact forwards (13:33)</li>
<li>Karlsson to Stars? Soucy to Sens? (23:50)</li>
<li>Multiple goalie options for Oilers (27:45)</li>
<li>Mailbag: Seth Jones, Red Wings (31:45)</li>
<li>Trivia! Who rented these players? (41:51)</li>
</ul><p>Skyscanner | Score Top Shelf Travel Deals</p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/ytoa/cheap-flights-to-toronto.html?irclickid=_lxgbpuyspokfanwqzwiup33y32220pv2hx30ru6w00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep10Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1740682568594&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Toronto</a></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/yeg/cheap-flights-to-edmonton-international-airport.html?irclickid=_lxgbpuyspokfanwqzwiup33y32220pv2gx30ru6w00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep10Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1740682592378&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Edmonton</a></p>

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Top Shelf: Rantanen Watch is on, the Marchand decision, more

Keep up with all notable transactions throughout the NFL offseason.  March 3   Bengals release G ...

<p><em>Keep up with all notable transactions throughout the NFL offseason.</em></p><h3>March 3</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Bengals</strong> release G Alex Cappa</li>
<li>
<strong>Packers </strong>re-sign LB Isaiah McDuffie to 2-year, $8M deal</li>
<li>
<strong>Eagles </strong>release CB Darius Slay</li>
</ul><h3>March 1</h3><ul><li>
<strong>49ers</strong> trade WR Deebo Samuel to <strong>Commanders</strong> for 5th-round pick</li></ul><h3>Feb. 28</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Rams</strong> sign QB Matthew Stafford to restructured deal</li>
<li>
<strong>Rams</strong> re-sign OL Alaric Jackson to 3-year, $57M deal</li>
</ul><h3>Feb. 27</h3><ul><li>
<strong>Chiefs </strong>place franchise tag on OG Trey Smith</li></ul><h3>Feb. 25</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Bills</strong> sign WR Khalil Shakir to 4-year, $60.2M extension</li>
<li>
<strong>Seahawks</strong> OT Jason Peters retires</li>
</ul><h3>Feb. 24</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Raiders</strong> re-sign S Isaiah Pola-Mao to 2-year deal</li>
<li>
<strong>49ers</strong> re-sign G Ben Bartch to 1-year deal</li>
</ul><h3>Feb. 23</h3><ul><li>
<strong>Steelers</strong> S Keanu Neal retires</li></ul><h3>Feb. 21</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Bears</strong> release TE Gerald Everett, DE DeMarcus Walker</li>
<li>
<strong>Bengals</strong> release DT Sheldon Rankins</li>
<li>
<strong>Panthers</strong> release CB Dane Jackson</li>
<li>
<strong>Steelers</strong> sign TE Donald Parham Jr.</li>
</ul><h3>Feb. 20</h3><ul><li>
<strong>Chargers</strong> re-sign S Elijah Molden to 3-year, $18.75M deal</li></ul><h3>Feb. 19</h3><ul><li>
<strong>Patriots</strong> release LB Sione Takitaki</li></ul><h3>Feb. 18</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Panthers</strong> re-sign QB Andy Dalton to 2-year, $8M deal</li>
<li>
<strong>Raiders</strong> sign WR Kyle Philips</li>
</ul><h3>Feb. 14</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Dolphins</strong> release RB Raheem Mostert, CB Kendall Fuller, TE Durham Smythe</li>
<li>
<strong>Steelers</strong> release LB Preston Smith</li>
</ul><h3>Feb. 13</h3><ul><li>
<strong>Saints</strong> re-sign RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire</li></ul><h3>Head coach hires</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Head coach hires" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SgpPQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SgpPQ/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="455" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>General manager hires</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="General manager hires" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-BSyRg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/BSyRg/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="286" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: Darius Slay #2 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on from the sideline prior to an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on December 10, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.

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NFL Offseason Tracker

<p><em>Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and contentious debates in the NHL and beyond.</em></p><p><em>Subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thescore">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4uKsxIahXBXkpuvYHeP9Jz?si=5c270e0ec3b0405e">Spotify</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/top-shelf/id1784581959">Apple</a>. Episodes drop every Tuesday.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yZ_Ge9lnvM0?si=uSTsw5InAvvJ91FK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Hosts Aidan Thakkar, Levi Smith, and Josh Wegman cover a variety of post-4 Nations Face-Off topics, including:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Is the NHL entering a new golden era? (00:00)</li>
<li>Tiering all 32 teams ahead of deadline (02:35)</li>
<li>Eastern Conference wild-card predictions (26:54)</li>
<li>Western Conference wild-card predictions (30:30)</li>
<li>Trivia! Guess the active hat-trick leaders (32:36)</li>
</ul><p>Skyscanner | Score Top Shelf Travel Deals</p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/yyc/cheap-flights-to-calgary?irclickid=_lxgbpuyspokfanwqzwiup33y32220p21v23lzcho00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep9Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1740519600127&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Calgary</a></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/cun/cheap-flights-to-cancun-airport.html?irclickid=_lxgbpuyspokfanwqzwiup33y32220p219e3lzcho00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep9Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1740519654818&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Cancun</a></p>

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Top Shelf: Tiering all 32 teams ahead of NHL trade deadline

NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  This week, we're id...

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p><em>This week, we're identifying an MVP for each of the league's 30 teams. Yes, even the bad ones.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">1. Oklahoma City Thunder (46-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><p><strong>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander:</strong> The Thunder are deep and versatile, but Gilgeous-Alexander is the catalyst for OKC's continued success. The 26-year-old is leading the league in scoring (32.4) and is first on the team in assists and steals.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">2. Cleveland Cavaliers (48-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p><strong>Donovan Mitchell:</strong> The Cavs star is shooting a career-best 39.5% from downtown and has knocked down the fourth-most triples (197) in the league. Mitchell's 514 points as a pick-and-roll ball-handler is the NBA's sixth-highest mark.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">3. Denver Nuggets (38-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><p><strong>Nikola Jokic:</strong> Forget the career highs in points (29.2), assists (10.4), and 3-point percentage (44.5) - Jokic carried this team early in the season when the only other starter making consistent contributions was Michael Porter Jr.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">4. Boston Celtics (42-16)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><p><strong>Jayson Tatum:</strong> Superstar availability is as impactful as ever, and Tatum's excelled in that regard (along with the usual counting stats). He's one of just five players in the league to total 2,000 minutes this season.</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">5. New York Knicks (37-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>7</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770332/cropped_GettyImages-2199276693.jpg?ts=1739419648" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770332/w220xh124_GettyImages-2199276693.jpg?ts=1739419648 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770332/w320xh180_GettyImages-2199276693.jpg?ts=1739419648 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770332/w640xh360_GettyImages-2199276693.jpg?ts=1739419648 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770332/w768xh432_GettyImages-2199276693.jpg?ts=1739419648 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770332/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2199276693.jpg?ts=1739419648 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Karl-Anthony Towns:</strong> It's been a dream start for Towns in the Big Apple. The former No. 1 overall pick was named an All-Star starter for the first time and is battling Domantas Sabonis for this season's rebounding crown. </p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">6. Memphis Grizzlies (38-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><p><strong>Jaren Jackson Jr.:</strong> The big man's strong two-way play helped the Grizzlies overcome Ja Morant's absence. Jackson's averaging a personal-best 22.9 points and is in the running for his second Defensive Player of the Year award in three seasons.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">7. Los Angeles Lakers (35-21)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>6</p><p><strong>LeBron James:</strong> James is putting up 29 points on 55.7% shooting over his last nine games, including a ludicrous 46% clip on seven 3-point attempts per contest. The 40-year-old is still the most pivotal Laker and has missed just four games all season.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">8. Indiana Pacers (32-24)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>12</p><p><strong>Pascal Siakam:</strong> Siakam, 30, earned a third All-Star selection this season, expanding his repertoire by shooting 40.2% from beyond the arc and appearing in all 56 of the Pacers' games.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">9. Houston Rockets (36-22)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>8</p><p><strong>Alperen Sengun</strong>: Houston's newly minted All-Star is among the NBA's top interior scorers - his average of 13.2 paint points ranks seventh. Sengun has done it partly by capitalizing on opponents' lack of effort; his 3.8 second-chance points per game rank sixth in the league.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">10. Milwaukee Bucks (32-25)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>10</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770893/cropped_GettyImages-2178432211.jpg?ts=1739752802" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770893/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178432211.jpg?ts=1739752802 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770893/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178432211.jpg?ts=1739752802 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770893/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178432211.jpg?ts=1739752802 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770893/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178432211.jpg?ts=1739752802 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770893/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178432211.jpg?ts=1739752802 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gary Dineen / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo:</strong> It's one thing for Antetokounmpo to average the second most points of his career (31), but his 60.9% field-goal mark - the highest in the league by a non-center - is symbolic of a player who unfathomably might still be improving in his 12th season.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">11. Los Angeles Clippers (31-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>11</p><p><strong>Norman Powell:</strong> Few players have taken as sizable a leap this season as Powell. Formerly a spark plug off the bench, Powell has shined in the starting five and carried much of the offensive load in Kawhi Leonard's absence.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">12. Minnesota Timberwolves (32-27)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><p><strong>Anthony Edwards:</strong> The three-time All-Star has expanded his game, making the most threes in the Association with 236<strong> </strong>while averaging a career-best 27.5 points for Minnesota.</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">13. Golden State Warriors (31-27)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>13</p><p><strong>Stephen Curry:</strong> A lot has changed in Golden State, but everything still revolves around Curry. The Warriors are scoring 13 more points per 100 possessions when the two-time MVP is on the floor.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">14. Detroit Pistons (32-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>16</p><p><strong>Cade Cunningham:</strong> The Pistons have eclipsed their win totals for each of the last five seasons due in part to Cunningham's breakthrough campaign. He's posting career bests in scoring (25.8), rebounding (6.3), and assists (9.5).</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">15. Sacramento Kings (29-28)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>15</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770527/cropped_GettyImages-2198770702.jpg?ts=1739505876" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770527/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198770702.jpg?ts=1739505876 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770527/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198770702.jpg?ts=1739505876 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770527/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198770702.jpg?ts=1739505876 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770527/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198770702.jpg?ts=1739505876 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770527/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198770702.jpg?ts=1739505876 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Layne Murdoch Jr. / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Domantas Sabonis:</strong> Despite his team's lackluster performance this season, Sabonis' play remains excellent. The Lithuanian big man leads the league in rebounding (14.5) for the third straight season and has increased his total every campaign.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">16. Orlando Magic (29-31)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>18</p><p><strong>Franz Wagner:</strong> The German forward edges Paolo Banchero for this season's Magic MVP. Orlando's net rating falls by 13 points when Wagner sits - nobody else produces even half that drop-off.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">17. Dallas Mavericks (31-28)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>23</p><p><strong>Kyrie Irving:</strong> Irving carried the load with Luka Doncic sidelined and has been a stabilizing presence since the latter's shocking trade. The veteran guard could become the fourth NBA player to produce multiple 50/40/90 campaigns.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">18. Miami Heat (26-30)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>17</p><p><strong>Tyler Herro:</strong> Amid the Jimmy Butler saga, Herro broke out as the new face of the Heat. He's averaging career highs in points (24), assists (5.6), and field-goal percentage (46.1), which resulted in his first All-Star appearance.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">19. Atlanta Hawks (27-31)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>19</p><p><strong>Trae Young:</strong> Even with Hawks having a down season, Young continues to shine as an elite playmaker. The 26-year-old is leading the league in assists per game (11.5) while also averaging<strong> </strong>24 points.</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">20. Phoenix Suns (27-31)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>14</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770136/cropped_GettyImages-2197168471.jpg?ts=1739332953" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770136/w220xh124_GettyImages-2197168471.jpg?ts=1739332953 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770136/w320xh180_GettyImages-2197168471.jpg?ts=1739332953 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770136/w640xh360_GettyImages-2197168471.jpg?ts=1739332953 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770136/w768xh432_GettyImages-2197168471.jpg?ts=1739332953 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770136/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2197168471.jpg?ts=1739332953 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Kevin Durant:</strong> Durant's been the only constant in a turbulent Suns season. The 36-year-old is doing everything in his power to take Phoenix to the playoffs, posting 26.9 points, six rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 53.0/40.2/82.8 shooting splits.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">21. Portland Trail Blazers (25-33)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>21</p><p><strong>Anfernee Simons:</strong> Simons averaged 20 points, five assists, and three rebounds during the Blazers' recent stretch of 10 wins in 11 games. He also made 3.6 triples on 43.9% shooting from deep, showing his value as a sharpshooter.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">22. San Antonio Spurs (24-32)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>20</p><p><strong>Victor Wembanyama:</strong> Despite being ruled out for the remaining 30 games of the regular season, Wembanyama's an obvious choice. The towering Frenchman has emerged as an elite defender while improving his passing and shooting.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">23. Brooklyn Nets (21-36)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>26</p><p><strong>Cameron Johnson:</strong> The North Carolina product has come into his own this season. Johnson's averaging career highs in points (19.1), assists (2.9), and field-goal percentage (48.5). He's also posting a 40.6% clip from three on 7.5 attempts per game.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">24. Chicago Bulls (23-35)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>24</p><p><strong>Nikola Vucevic:</strong> Vucevic, 34, is quietly having his best season with Chicago, recording his highest scoring average (19.1) as a Bull. He's also shooting a career-best 53.3%.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">25. Toronto Raptors (18-40)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>25</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767605/cropped_GettyImages-2195767552.jpg?ts=1738035130" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767605/w220xh124_GettyImages-2195767552.jpg?ts=1738035130 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767605/w320xh180_GettyImages-2195767552.jpg?ts=1738035130 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767605/w640xh360_GettyImages-2195767552.jpg?ts=1738035130 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767605/w768xh432_GettyImages-2195767552.jpg?ts=1738035130 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767605/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2195767552.jpg?ts=1738035130 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vaughn Ridley / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Scottie Barnes: </strong>The Raptors' cornerstone wing is one of just <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/XXVve"><strong>three</strong></a> NBA players to average at least 15 points, five assists, five rebounds, and a steal and a block apiece. The others are MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and rising Hawks forward Jalen Johnson.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">26. Philadelphia 76ers (20-37)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>22</p><p><strong>Tyrese Maxey:</strong> Not much has gone right in Philly this season, but at least Maxey has taken another step toward superstardom. He's averaging the fifth most points in the league with a career-high 27.1.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">27. Utah Jazz (14-43)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>27</p><p><strong>Collin Sexton:</strong> Lauri Markkanen leads the team in scoring, but he's shooting the second-worst field-goal percentage of his career and holding a negative-5.4 net rating. Sexton has been consistent, averaging an efficient 18.3 points per game.</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">28. Charlotte Hornets (14-43)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>29</p><p><strong>LaMelo Ball:</strong> Melo might be the only bright spot for the basement-dwelling Hornets. Only one other player is averaging at least 27 points and seven assists this season: Nikola Jokic.</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">29. New Orleans Pelicans (15-43)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>28</p><p><strong>Trey Murphy III:</strong> There haven't been many positives for the Pelicans, but Murphy is already proving to be worth his lucrative extension. The fourth-year forward is tallying career highs in both points (22.2) and assists (3.7).</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">30. Washington Wizards (10-47)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>30</p><p><strong>Jordan Poole:</strong> The one-time NBA champion may not be the league's most efficient scorer, but he can still put up points. Poole's averaging a career-high 21 points and a personal-best 37.1% shooting from three.</p>

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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - FEBRUARY 25: Seth Jones #4 of the Chicago Blackhawks skates against the Utah Hockey Club on February 25, 2025 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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<p><em>With another All-Star break in the rearview, theScore's NBA editors answer some of the biggest questions around the league.</em></p><h3>Who is a dark horse award candidate?</h3><p><strong>J.B. Bickerstaff for COTY</strong>: He probably won't finish in the top three, but Bickerstaff's work with the Pistons deserves some proper recognition. Detroit was stuck with a miserable eight wins and all alone in last place in the East this time last season. Yet much of that same roster occupies a playoff spot and is vying for home-court advantage in the first round. Bickerstaff isn't the only person responsible for that year-over-year glow-up - Cade Cunningham's rise to superstardom is coming at the right time, and new vets like Tobias Harris and Tim Hardaway Jr. have helped. But the 45-year-old head coach has his squad operating as a confident, cohesive unit, with yesteryear's embarrassing campaign essentially forgotten. - <em>Jonathan Soveta</em></p><p><strong>Malik Beasley for 6MOY:</strong> Beasley signing a one-year contract with the Pistons was largely viewed as a short-term signing to help improve the team along the margins. Instead, the 28-year-old has put together one of his best offensive campaigns. Beasley is averaging 16.6 points with a 59.4% effective field-goal percentage, his best output since his 2020-21 season with the T-Wolves. The sharpshooter is second to Anthony Edwards in made 3-pointers (226) and is in the top 15 in percentage from deep (42.3%), knocking down four threes a game. If the Pistons return to the playoffs, Beasley could be rewarded with some new hardware and a new contract. -<em> Donald Higney</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Lu Dort for DPOY</strong>: Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama won't hit the 65-game threshold to qualify for the annual awards, meaning a dark horse could capture a Defensive Player of the Year trophy. Dort's argument is simple: He's the best defender on the most suffocating NBA defense since 2019-2020. Dort is forcing opponents to shoot just 61% at the rim and 33% from three while defending primary playmakers every night. His on-ball defense allows Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams to act as free safeties, targeting weaker ballhandlers to help OKC get into fastbreak situations. It's that kind of resume that could make Dort only the sixth guard to win a DPOY and just the second since 2000. - <em>Thomas Tittley</em></p><h3>Which team needs a post-All-Star reset the most?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771465/cropped_GettyImages-2198589215.jpg?ts=1740065529" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771465/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198589215.jpg?ts=1740065529 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771465/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198589215.jpg?ts=1740065529 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771465/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198589215.jpg?ts=1740065529 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771465/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198589215.jpg?ts=1740065529 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771465/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198589215.jpg?ts=1740065529 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Logan Riely / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Houston Rockets:</strong> The Rockets went 2-7 in their final nine games entering the All-Star break, and two of those losses came at the hands of the 24th-place Brooklyn Nets. Houston ranked 29th in field-goal percentage (42.7%) and 30th in free-throw percentage (71.7%) during that stretch. The franchise was also without two of its starters, with Fred VanVleet missing seven games with an ankle sprain and Jabari Smith Jr. being sidelined from Jan. 3 with a fractured hand. Amen Thompson has been a bright spot during this time, averaging 14.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and two blocks since Jan. 30. If his energy can radiate to his teammates, the Rockets should bounce back well. <em>- Joseph Luca Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Phoenix Suns: </strong>Phoenix's only win in its last seven matchups before the All-Star Game was an overtime victory at home over the bottom-dwelling Jazz. The Suns dropped three straight after that, all of which came against top-four teams in the West: the Nuggets, Grizzlies, and Rockets. And in their first game back from the break, they were brushed aside by the Spurs, who were playing without 7-foot-3 phenom Victor Wembanyama. The Suns simply can't crack that final play-in seed, and with ex-trade target Jimmy Butler now helping the Golden State Warriors climb the standings, that gap will only continue to grow if Phoenix's stars can't quickly right the ship.<strong> </strong>- <em>Soveta</em></p><p><strong>Orlando Magic:</strong> Orlando's enchanting first third of the season seems like a distant memory. The Magic are now in a play-in<strong> </strong>spot after beginning the season 17-10 and looking like a potential challenge to the top teams in the conference while playing without Paolo Banchero. Teams that had slower starts have put together longer, sustained positive stretches, like the Pacers and Pistons. While Jamahl Mosley's squad has been outstanding defensively, Orlando ranks above only the Wizards and Hornets in offensive rating. Finding a balance between Banchero's ball-dominant play and the rest of the team should hopefully bring the team back into the playoff race. - <em>Higney</em></p><h3>Which team outside the playoff picture has the brightest future?</h3><p><strong>Portland Trail Blazers:</strong> Do yourselves a favor and start tuning into Blazers games. They're fun, athletic, and, most importantly, they're winning. Portland is 11-5 over its last 16 games and recently smashed the Hornets by a franchise-record 53 points. Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, still only 20 and 21, respectively, look like the backcourt of the future. Toumani Camara is in the hunt to make an All-Defensive team in just his second season, and Donovan Clingan has been a per-36 machine. Portland also has flexibility moving forward. The Blazers control most of their upcoming draft picks, and the high-paid duo of Anfernee Simons and Deandre Ayton will be on expiring deals next season. <em>- Tittley</em></p><p><strong>San Antonio Spurs: </strong>Even with Victor Wembanyama sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a blood clot issue, the Spurs have a very bright future. Beyond Wemby, the Spurs boast Stephon Castle, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, and Devin Vassell. All four are 25 or younger and averaging double-digit points this season. And Wemby himself is recording 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, and 3.8 blocks. The Spurs' front office also added De'Aaron Fox, who should be the perfect complementary piece for these young stars. Fox is averaging 21.8 points, 4.8 boards, 7 dimes, and 2 steals since joining San Antonio.<strong> </strong><em>- Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>New Orleans Pelicans: </strong>The Pelicans' saving grace after a miserable season will be how well-equipped they are for the draft. Their own pick is highly likely to be in the top four, and they also control the Bucks' selection. New Orleans could potentially supplement a talented core of Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy, Herbert Jones, and Yves Missi with another rising star, like Ace Bailey or Dylan Harper - or the Pels could even hit another Duke jackpot in Cooper Flagg. Despite their miserable season, keep in mind McCollum is their only rotation constant older than 28. Williamson, as unlucky as he's been, is still only 24 and under contract through 2027-28 - the ideal long-term partner for a promising rookie next season. - <em>Soveta</em></p><h3>Which expansion option is the most viable?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771693/cropped_GettyImages-2188814125.jpg?ts=1740168195" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771693/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188814125.jpg?ts=1740168195 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771693/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188814125.jpg?ts=1740168195 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771693/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188814125.jpg?ts=1740168195 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771693/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188814125.jpg?ts=1740168195 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771693/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188814125.jpg?ts=1740168195 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Seattle:</strong> Talk of NBA expansion was again prominent as part of All-Star Weekend. Out of all of the options, Seattle remains the most deserving destination. Fans <a href="https://x.com/jasonrantz/status/1892293974364225544">desperately</a> want to see the team back in place. Commissioner Adam Silver <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/sonics/when-nba-will-start-talking-expansion-fulfilling-dream-of-sonics-return/">said</a> it would be a "dream" for the league to return to The Emerald City. The Blazers and Clippers played a preseason contest at Climate Pledge Arena, the third straight year an NBA exhibition game took place there. The venue will also host the first and second rounds of the NCAA Tournament later in March, another indication that basketball fans are ready to have another team in the Pacific Northwest. - <em>Higney</em></p><p><strong>Las Vegas: </strong>Professional sports had long spurned Sin City, distancing themselves from the gambling world before the NHL made the leap in 2017. But now that sports gambling is legal in 39 states - plus Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. - leagues are sprinting into partnership deals with major casinos and betting sites. Both MLB and the NFL have decided to relocate their Oakland organizations to the desert, leaving the Association as the lone major sports league without a team in, or committed, to Vegas. The NBA has a longstanding history with the city: The final and semifinal of the NBA Cup are hosted in Vegas, the WNBA has the Las Vegas Aces, and the NBA's Summer League is played at UNLV's Thomas and Mack Center. LeBron James has explicitly said he wants to own a Vegas expansion team, making it seem inevitable that a squad will end up in Nevada shortly. <em>- Tittley</em></p><p><strong>Montreal</strong> is known for its passionate fans, as was seen when the Raptors held training camp there this past offseason and during the NHL's recent 4 Nations Face-Off. It only seems right to give such vocal supporters an NBA team of their own. Canada was the most-represented country outside of the U.S. this past opening night, with 21 Canadian players on NBA rosters to begin the season. Canada also showed out at the 2024 FIBA World Cup, taking home a bronze medal. It's time the NBA brings a second team to the Great White North.<strong> </strong><em>- Casciaro</em></p>

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Roundball Roundtable: Award dark horses, expansion ideas

What do you want to know, hockey fans?  This is an open call for questions for John Matisz, theSc...

<p>What do you want to know, hockey fans?</p><p>This is an open call for questions for John Matisz, theScore's senior NHL writer. Select answers will appear in a future edition of his monthly NHL Inbox column and on theScore's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwkOTHonVMKZpmEa5bBzk1LdUSYsIDmM8">Top Shelf</a> hockey show. (Read the first three: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3120082" href="https://thescore.com/news/3120082">November</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3150992" href="https://thescore.com/news/3150992">December</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3202200" href="https://thescore.com/news/3202200">January</a>.)</p><p>Is there something you've always wanted to ask a player, coach, or executive? John has access to these people and can seek an answer to your question.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Is there a team- or league-related trend you've wondered about? John can use his reporting expertise to dig into it. And don't be shy if you'd like to ask something relating to the CBA, rulebook, analytics, or international play.</p><p>There are three ways to submit a question:</p><ul>
<li>Comment on this article in theScore mobile app</li>
<li>Email John at <a href="mailto:john.matisz@theScore.com">john.matisz@thescore.com</a>
</li>
<li>Send John a message on Twitter/X (<a href="https://x.com/MatiszJohn">@matiszjohn</a>)</li>
</ul>

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Ask John Matisz your NHL questions

<p><em>Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and contentious debates in the NHL and beyond.</em></p><p><em>Subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thescore">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4uKsxIahXBXkpuvYHeP9Jz?si=5c270e0ec3b0405e">Spotify</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/top-shelf/id1784581959">Apple</a>. Episodes drop every Tuesday.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lUaeVlucL8g?si=pcbGFu0UY8qz317V" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Hosts Aidan Thakkar, Levi Smith, and John Matisz cover a variety of topics relating to the electric 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, including:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Another golden goal for Canada (00:00)</li>
<li>What made 4 Nations so special? (01:05)</li>
<li>Jordan Binnington steals show (07:10)</li>
<li>Canadians on Olympic bubble (09:15)</li>
<li>Top 5 hockey countries in 2025 (18:05)</li>
<li>Americans on Olympic bubble (22:20)</li>
<li>Legacy of one-off 4 Nations event (27:15)</li>
<li>Trivia! 4 Nations point getters by NHL team (36:50)</li>
</ul><p>Skyscanner | Score Top Shelf Travel Deals</p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/stoc/cheap-flights-to-stockholm.html?irclickid=_lxgbpuyspokfanwqzwiup33y32220iq3p23lzcho00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep8Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1740167560355&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Stockholm</a></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/mila/cheap-flights-to-milan.html?irclickid=_lxgbpuyspokfanwqzwiup33y32220iq3tf3lzcho00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep8Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1740167599126&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Milan</a></p>

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Top Shelf: 4 Nations debrief, Olympic roster risers and fallers, more

Welcome to the first edition of theScore's MLB Power Rankings for the 2025 season as spring train...

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MLB Power Rankings: Taking stock entering spring training 

The second volume of Canada versus USA is here.  The two North American rivals are set to square ...

<p>The second volume of Canada versus USA is here.</p><p>The two North American rivals are set to square off in what should be an epic clash in the 4 Nations Face-Off final Thursday at 8 p.m. ET in Boston. Will Canada continue its reign as hockey's greatest nation with a fourth straight best-on-best tournament victory? Or will the upstart Americans finally take the crown?</p><p>Below, our hockey writers make their predictions for the game, as well as tournament MVP.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="4 Nations Final staff picks" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jYZXc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jYZXc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="333" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>In a game between two evenly matched rosters, it's no surprise our writers are mixed on the outcome. There's an equal split on who will emerge victorious. However, a tight, lower-scoring game is predicted across the board.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3997" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3997">Connor Hellebuyck</a> are our favorites to take home tournament MVP honors, though it's entirely possible another candidate claims the award with a monster game in the final.</p>

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 15: Nathan MacKinnon #29 of Team Canada and Dylan Larkin #21 of Team United States face off at center ice during the second period of the 4 Nations Face-Off game between the United States and Canada at Bell Centre on February 15, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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4 Nations final staff picks: Canada or USA?

theScore Bet is committed to helping patrons play responsibly. It's important you know your limit...

<p>theScore Bet is committed to helping patrons play responsibly. It's important you know your limits and when it's time to take a step back. Below are some tools and tips to help you play smart. </p><h3>Set your limits</h3><p>We've built some tools right into our app to help you set your own limits and play smart, including: </p><ul>
<li>Daily time limit</li>
<li>Deposit limits</li>
<li>Spend limit</li>
<li>Loss limit</li>
<li>Max single wager limit</li>
<li>Cool off</li>
<li>Disable Casino</li>
<li>Self exclusion</li>
<li>Reality check-in interval</li>
</ul><p>Check out <a href="https://thescore.bet/hc/en-us/articles/13873610443277-How-to-Play-Responsibly">theScore Bet's help center</a> for more info on all our available tools. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Tips, myths, risks</h3><p>While gambling and betting on sports can be fun, some people may discover they have a hard time keeping it under control. Below are some tips from the <a href="https://responsiblegambling.org/?_gl=1%2Acbaqmf%2A_gcl_au%2AMTQ5OTM4Mzg2LjE3MzgwOTY3NjE.">Responsible Gaming Council (RGC)</a> for playing responsibly: </p><ul>
<li>Don't gamble when you're upset or stressed</li>
<li>Limit your alcohol and/or cannabis intake while gambling</li>
<li>Know how the games work before you wager</li>
<li>Set budget and time limits - there are tools available on many slot machines, mobile and internet gambling sites to help you monitor your play</li>
<li>Take frequent breaks - move around, get some fresh air, have something to eat or a coffee</li>
<li>Only gamble with money you have - never borrow money or use money intended for necessities, like rent or food</li>
<li>Don't try to win back when you've lost</li>
<li>Gambling is not a way to make money so don't think of it as a chance to win money for a trip, to pay bills or to pay off debt</li>
<li>Stick to your budget by leaving your credit and debit cards at home</li>
<li>Balance gambling with other recreational activities</li>
<li>If you're no longer having fun, stop playing</li>
<li>Don't depend on "good luck" strategies - they don't increase your chances of winning</li>
</ul><h3>Common gambling myths</h3><p><em>"If I keep gambling, my luck will change and I'll win back the money I've lost."</em></p><ul><li>Each time you place a bet, the outcome is completely independent of the previous one. That means that the odds are no more in your favour on the tenth bet than they were on the first bet. Over time, the more you risk, the more you lose. </li></ul><p><em>"I have a feeling today is my lucky day. I just know I'm going to win."</em></p><ul><li><p>Hoping, wishing or even needing to win money has absolutely no influence on the outcome of a game of chance. </p></li></ul><p><em>"The way to make money on the big game is to bet on every outcome."</em></p><ul><li><p>All bets involve some risk, so there's no such thing as a sure bet. Gambling shouldn’t be used as a way to make money, but as a way to have fun.</p></li></ul><p><em>"As long as I play within a budget, I'm gambling safely."</em></p><ul><li><p>Playing with a set budget is a great way to stay away from financial harms. But if your gambling impacts other important areas of your life like time spent with loved ones, it may be a sign you need help. </p></li></ul><h3>Risks and warning signs</h3><p>Know the warning signs of problem gambling: </p><ul>
<li>Feeling guilty, anxious, frustrated or worried about your gambling</li>
<li>Thinking or talking about gambling more than usual</li>
<li>Gambling to win back money you've lost or thinking that a "big win" is right around the corner</li>
<li>Experiencing extreme highs from wins and extreme lows from losses</li>
<li>Finding it difficult to control or stop gambling, or feeling irritable when you try to stop</li>
<li>Feeling a sense of emptiness or loss when you're not gambling</li>
<li>Borrowing money, selling things, committing (or considering committing) criminal acts to obtain money for gambling</li>
<li>Having increased debt, unpaid bills, or other financial troubles because of your gambling</li>
<li>Gambling to escape personal problems or to relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or loneliness</li>
<li>Gambling instead of attending family or other social functions or neglecting family or household responsibilities because of gambling</li>
</ul><p>While gambling can be a fun recreational activity, if an individual doesn't play responsibly, it can have a negative effect on many aspects of their life, such as financial troubles.</p><p>Financial troubles are one of the potentially more visible signs of a problem with gambling. The financial costs of a problem with gambling are significant and can include financial insecurity, reduced disposable income, job loss, loss of home and/or business, increased debt and potential bankruptcy. </p><p>Below are a few of the financial warning signs that can be associated with problem gambling: </p><ul>
<li>Overdue and unpaid bills </li>
<li>Increased spending on credit cards/significant debt increase </li>
<li>Secretive about money problems and/or account balance(s) to friends and family </li>
<li>Frequently short/lacking money despite sufficient income </li>
<li>Repeatedly borrowing money from friends and/or family </li>
<li>Money disappearing from savings account, home, or wallets without explanation </li>
<li>Receiving calls from collection agencies </li>
</ul><p><strong>If you or anyone you know has a gambling problem, ask for help. </strong></p><h3>Responsible gaming policy</h3><p>theScore Bet is committed to providing gaming in a responsible manner. We want players to have fun and enjoy our services safely. </p><p>While most of our players enjoy gaming as a form of entertainment, we realize that some may experience problems. We are committed to promoting responsible gaming and protecting players (and others affected by their behavior) when gaming stops being fun. </p><p>We use a variety of approaches to promote responsible gaming, including employee training (so that our staff can better identify and manage problem gaming issues when they arise), customer awareness campaigns, self-exclusion and financial restriction programs, and ongoing policy monitoring and review so that we can gauge the effectiveness of our responsible gaming programs. </p><p><strong>Our Pledge to Players</strong></p><ol>
<li><strong>We will promote responsible gaming </strong></li>
<li><strong>We will provide safe gaming tools and resources </strong></li>
<li><strong>We will advertise responsibly </strong></li>
<li><strong>We will prevent underage gaming </strong></li>
</ol><p>See theScore Bet's full Responsible Gaming Policy <a href="https://thescore.bet/hc/en-us/articles/13873581266701-theScore-Bet-Responsible-Gaming-Policy">here</a>. </p><h3>Help and resources </h3><p>If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, please call <a href="https://www.connexontario.ca/en-ca/">ConnexOntario</a> at 1-866-531-2600. ConnexOntario also offers additional ways of conveniently getting you the assistance you need, when you need it: </p><ul>
<li><strong>Text Line: Text "CONNEX" to 247247 - After a few automated texts, a system navigator will connect with you to discover the options available</strong></li>
<li><strong>Web Chat: Go to <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/Chat">http://www.connexontario.ca/Chat</a> to start a web chat and find suitable options that are tailored to your needs</strong></li>
<li><strong>Email: Visit <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/en-ca/send-email">http://www.connexontario.ca/en-ca/send-email</a> to connect via email for the assistance you need</strong></li>
</ul><p>If you're located in Canada but are outside of Ontario, please visit <a href="https://www.responsiblegambling.org/for-the-public/problem-gambling-help/help-for-canadians/">The Responsible Gambling Council</a> for additional resources. </p>

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Responsible Gaming 101

With the 2024-25 season at the All-Star break and only one-third of the campaign remaining, here'...

<p>With the 2024-25 season at the All-Star break and only one-third of the campaign remaining, here's a look at the 10 leading candidates for the NBA's Most Valuable Player.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Pni9T" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Pni9T/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>Not Ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>48</td>
<td>51.6</td>
<td>39.5</td>
<td>75.9</td>
<td>7.7</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>24.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The things James is doing at his age are truly mind-boggling. Since turning 40 at the end of 2024, James has averaged 25.5 points, 9.0 assists, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in 33.8 minutes per contest. He's shooting 54.4% from the field and 44.7% from three, while the Lakers have gone 14-7 over that stretch to stay out of the play-in tournament race.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, James' candidacy for MVP could lose steam with the Lakers' acquisition of Luka Doncic, another ball-dominant player who was putting up three more shots per contest with the Dallas Mavericks before suffering a calf injury. While James won't win MVP, Doncic will garner more offensive attention as Los Angeles' best player and the future of the franchise.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: A EDWARDS (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9u5Xf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9u5Xf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>Not Ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>50</td>
<td>45.5</td>
<td>35.1</td>
<td>85</td>
<td>6.3</td>
<td>9.4</td>
<td>25.4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Cunningham finds his way onto our MVP rankings for the first time this season. He's become one of the NBA's premier creators and is the offensive hub for a young Pistons squad on the verge of making the postseason for the first time since 2019.</p><p>Only Trae Young (45.2%) and James (43.2%) have a higher assist rate than Cunningham's 41.6%. The 23-year-old is also averaging career highs in points, rebounds, free-throw attempts, and field-goal percentage.</p><p>The former No. 1 overall pick has been thrust into the spotlight after backcourt-mate Jaden Ivey suffered a season-ending leg injury in early January. Cunningham has exploded since Ivey went down, recording 30-plus points 10 times – including two 40-point outings – and over 10 assists on seven occasions.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: A EDWARDS (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Xdiok" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Xdiok/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>Not Ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>54</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>41.4</td>
<td>84.3</td>
<td>5.8</td>
<td>4.5</td>
<td>27.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Edwards has been tremendous over the last month as the Timberwolves continue to jostle for the West's final direct playoff berth. Most recently, the 23-year-old scored 40-plus in three straight February games, including a 49-point bonanza against the Chicago Bulls on Feb. 5 - his second-highest total of the campaign.</p><p>However, Minnesota needs more from its franchise star when it matters most. Edwards' 32 games under the NBA's clutch criteria - a five-point margin in the last five minutes - are tied for the third-most in the league. But his 18 such losses are tied with teammate Jaden McDaniels for the most of any player this season. Here's another sign that his late-game decision-making needs improvement: in 109.9 total clutch minutes, Edwards has mustered just eight assists and nine turnovers.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: N JOKIC (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0HiR3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0HiR3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>52</td>
<td>49.5</td>
<td>36.4</td>
<td>77.2</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>2.2</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Jackson continues to climb our MVP rankings as he's been a menace for a surging Grizzlies squad that sits second in the West. The former Defensive Player of the Year is one of two players – the other being OKC's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - to lead their team in points, blocks, and steals. Jackson also tops the Grizzlies in 3-pointers (100) and free throws (233).</p><p>Jackson, who's played 200 more minutes than the next closest Memphis player, isn't just accumulating counting stats. His on-off numbers on defense are as gaudy. The Grizzlies allow 8.3 fewer points per 100 possessions when Jackson is on the court. Ja Morant is the next-closest Grizzlies player at minus-3.2, and only one other player (Zach Edey) has a defensive impact over two.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: J BRUNSON (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-cHPCn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/cHPCn/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 6</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>49</td>
<td>53.4</td>
<td>43.8</td>
<td>84.2</td>
<td>13.4</td>
<td>3.3</td>
<td>24.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Knicks' offense continues to flourish primarily thanks to the sharpshooting 7-footer. Since Jan. 1, New York has posted its worst offensive rating (110.8) when Towns hasn't played and its best (121.9) when he has (among players with at least 300 minutes played).</p><p>The 29-year-old has been especially proficient in February, posting 25.5 points, 11 rebounds, and 1.2 steals through six contests while hitting 16 of 30 3-point attempts (53.3% - better than his overall 49.5% from the floor). Towns also put up back-to-back 40-point games heading into the break, which either came at the worst time or allowed him to exert a little more effort with rest on the horizon.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: D MITCHELL (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GYUMj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GYUMj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>51</td>
<td>45.4</td>
<td>39.1</td>
<td>83.5</td>
<td>4.4</td>
<td>4.8</td>
<td>23.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The East still belongs to the Cavs, who only improved at the deadline by adding De'Andre Hunter to their wing rotation. Cleveland has been ahead of Boston by at least four wins since New Year's Day, and Mitchell remains the team's strongest MVP candidate despite a solid balance throughout its rotation.</p><p>In his final eight games before the break, the 28-year-old guard shot 51.1% on 17.6 field-goal attempts while averaging 24.9 points. The Cavs went 7-1 in that stretch, with all their wins coming by double digits and a seven-point loss to the Celtics being the only blemish. During that span, Mitchell was just one of two players in the league to eclipse 51% shooting on 17-plus attempts per game while hitting at least three 3-pointers per contest - the other being Trey Murphy III.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: J TATUM (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0OxZ4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0OxZ4/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>52</td>
<td>45.5</td>
<td>35.8</td>
<td>79.5</td>
<td>8.7</td>
<td>5.6</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Although Tatum is maybe the most boring candidate on the list, he's putting up a pretty consistent campaign compared to previous years. He finished the last stretch of the season before the All-Star break strong, averaging 35 points and 9.3 rebounds as the Celtics picked up double-digit victories over the Knicks, Heat, and Spurs. Boston has won seven of its last eight contests, rising from a 14-12 stretch that lasted almost two months.</p><p>The 26-year-old will have a chance to continue to pile on the points. Boston has the third-easiest <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/remaining_schedule_strength">strength of schedule</a> remaining post-All-Star break, playing the Jazz, Hornets, Nets, and Sixers eight times before the end of the season. If Tatum can string together signature performances, he could get closer to that trophy.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: G ANTETOKOUNMPO (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-eRpOj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/eRpOj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>41</td>
<td>60.8</td>
<td>18.8</td>
<td>57.7</td>
<td>12.2</td>
<td>5.9</td>
<td>31.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Antetokounmpo has failed to grab 10 rebounds only four times in 41 games this season, which is an absurd rate considering he's less than a point per contest from leading the league in scoring, too. Before going down with knee and calf injuries earlier in February - which prevented the nine-time All-Star from playing in Sunday's showcase - Antetokounmpo was averaging 32.8 points, 13 boards, and 5.6 assists over his last 10 games. His heroics have kept Milwaukee in the thick of the race for the top four in the East.</p><p>The concern is how long the Greek Freak will be out with his calf strain. The Bucks have 29 regular-season games left, and Antetokounmpo has to play in at least 24 of them to stay award-eligible.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: N JOKIC (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ii8V8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ii8V8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>49</td>
<td>57.7</td>
<td>45.0</td>
<td>82.3</td>
<td>12.6</td>
<td>10.2</td>
<td>29.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The lone knock against Jokic during the first quarter of the season was that his Nuggets were barely above .500 and looked like a potential play-in squad. Things are remarkably different halfway through February: Denver is riding an eight-game winning streak and sits third in the West. No team has recorded more victories in 2025 than Denver, which has amassed 18 wins since the calendar changed.</p><p>The Serbian big man is again at the top of the league in almost every major counting stat. Jokic is on pace to join Russell Westbrook and Oscar Robertson as the third player in NBA history to average a triple-double over a season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-LgpHR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LgpHR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>53</td>
<td>52.3</td>
<td>35.9</td>
<td>89.7</td>
<td>5.1</td>
<td>6.1</td>
<td>32.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Even as Jokic and the Nuggets gain ground in the West, the Thunder are 8.5 games ahead of them thanks to Gilgeous-Alexander's play. Over the last 12 contests, the 26-year-old has averaged 35.8 points, 5.9 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals. He dropped 50 points three times over two weeks, including a career-best 54 over the Jazz to kick off his latest scoring frenzy.</p><p>On the season, Gilgeous-Alexander has scored 237 more points than the next leading player, Edwards. The last two players to win MVP and the season scoring title in the same year came from OKC: Russell Westbrook in 2017 and Kevin Durant in 2014. Can SGA keep up this pace and join those franchise legends at the end of the campaign?</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30278224/related

NBA MVP Rankings: Tight race takes shape in 2nd half

<p><strong>We've been busy at theScore!</strong> From exciting new features to enhancements that make your experience better than ever, we're constantly working to bring you the best in sports and entertainment. Here's a look at what's new, what's improved, and a sneak peek at what's coming next. <strong>Stay ahead of the game with theScore by updating your app to version 25.3.0 to get the latest features!</strong></p><h3>Soccer ScoreCast</h3><p>Attention all soccer fans - a brand new Soccer ScoreCast experience is here! A visually enhanced ScoreCast page allows you to follow your favorite teams and top matches in real time.</p><p>Experience the action like never before with our live-updating ball tracer, tracking every pass, shot, and corner kick as it happens. Stay immersed in the game and never miss a moment of the excitement!</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770416/cropped_Soccer_ScoreCast__1_.jpg?ts=1739464490" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770416/w220xh124_Soccer_ScoreCast__1_.jpg?ts=1739464490 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770416/w320xh180_Soccer_ScoreCast__1_.jpg?ts=1739464490 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770416/w640xh360_Soccer_ScoreCast__1_.jpg?ts=1739464490 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770416/w768xh432_Soccer_ScoreCast__1_.jpg?ts=1739464490 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770416/w1080xh607_Soccer_ScoreCast__1_.jpg?ts=1739464490 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>My Activity Feed 🔔</h3><p>Never miss a beat! Easily see who's replying to your comment or reacting to your posts. Stay engaged with the fandom and follow only the comments you choose without any pesky push notifications 🤫</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770417/cropped_c6f326dc-fccd-4889-be05-69d3ab91f3df.jpg?ts=1739464583" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770417/w220xh124_c6f326dc-fccd-4889-be05-69d3ab91f3df.jpg?ts=1739464583 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770417/w320xh180_c6f326dc-fccd-4889-be05-69d3ab91f3df.jpg?ts=1739464583 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770417/w640xh360_c6f326dc-fccd-4889-be05-69d3ab91f3df.jpg?ts=1739464583 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770417/w768xh432_c6f326dc-fccd-4889-be05-69d3ab91f3df.jpg?ts=1739464583 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770417/w1080xh607_c6f326dc-fccd-4889-be05-69d3ab91f3df.jpg?ts=1739464583 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Coming soon 👀</h3><p><strong>Enhanced PWHL Coverage 🚨</strong></p><p>We've heard your requests and are thrilled to be releasing an exciting expansion of our PWHL coverage very soon! In addition to our current news updates, you'll soon be able to follow your favorite teams and players, subscribe to alerts, and track live game updates and statistics - all within the app. Stay tuned for more!</p><p><strong>Reactions 😆 </strong></p><p>Show your team spirit! Respond to comments and articles. Cheer along with fans, side-eye the opposition, and directly tell us what you think of an article with our variety of emojis.</p><p>Reactions coming soon on Android! </p><h3>What's next? You tell us</h3><p>Lastly, we've got some big ideas, but we want to hear from you: <strong>What features do you want to see from theScore next year?</strong></p><p>We'd love to know. We'll be canvassing the comments section for your feedback, or you can reach out to us at <a href="mailto:support@thescore.com">support@thescore.com</a>.</p><p>Thanks for making theScore your home for sports.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30243879/related

NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  This week, we're ta...

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p><em>This week, we're taking stock of where things stand after one of the wildest lead-ups to the trade deadline in NBA history.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">1. Oklahoma City Thunder (43-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><p>Keeping Chet Holmgren healthy needs to be OKC's top priority. Without him, the Thunder's defense lacks some beef - or in this case, length - in the middle. In his first two games back, Holmgren has an impressive 9 blocks.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">2. Cleveland Cavaliers (43-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p>De'Andre Hunter went 3-of-4 from deep in his first Cavs game while the rest of the team was 14-of-39 (35.8%). Once he acclimates defensively, Cleveland's shortened playoff rotation could be a nightmare for opponents.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">3. Boston Celtics (38-16)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><p>The Celtics didn't make any trades at the deadline, instead signing veteran free-agent forward Torrey Craig for more depth. Boston seems to believe they have enough to repeat as champions.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">4. Denver Nuggets (35-19)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>7</p><p>The Nuggets will have to rely on the buyout market to improve their roster but, as a first-apron team, they can't add a player who was making more than the mid-level exception before they were bought out.</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">5. Memphis Grizzlies (36-17)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>6</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770081/cropped_GettyImages-2189627461.jpg?ts=1739318826" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770081/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189627461.jpg?ts=1739318826 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770081/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189627461.jpg?ts=1739318826 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770081/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189627461.jpg?ts=1739318826 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770081/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189627461.jpg?ts=1739318826 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770081/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189627461.jpg?ts=1739318826 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Pantozzi / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Memphis burned a first-rounder Thursday to dump Marcus Smart on the Wizards - after trading two for him in June - and shipped Jake LaRavia to Sacramento for essentially nothing. The Grizzlies whittled their depth for supposed offseason flexibility.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">6. Los Angeles Lakers (32-19)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><p>Defense wins championships - at least that's what Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison wants us to believe. If that's true, the Lakers need to figure things out quickly, as four of their key players are turnstiles on that end.</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">7. New York Knicks (35-18)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><p>New York's ambitions to enter the league's upper tier took a hit Saturday with another lopsided loss to the Celtics, who have now shot a combined 48-of-100 from deep in two victories over the Knicks this season. Boston also put up 130-plus points in each win.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">8. Houston Rockets (33-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><p>The Rockets tumbled from second in the West courtesy of a six-game losing skid. That stretch was epitomized by some comical decision-making late in an appalling loss to the Brooklyn Nets. This team needs the All-Star break to reset.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">9. Minnesota Timberwolves (30-24)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>12</p><p>The absence of Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo has forced Anthony Edwards to carry the offensive load in Minnesota. The 23-year-old has scored a Timberwolves-record 40 or more in his last three starts.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">10. Milwaukee Bucks (28-24)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>8</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764276/cropped_GettyImages-2192823324.jpg?ts=1736353624" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764276/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192823324.jpg?ts=1736353624 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764276/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192823324.jpg?ts=1736353624 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764276/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192823324.jpg?ts=1736353624 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764276/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192823324.jpg?ts=1736353624 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764276/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192823324.jpg?ts=1736353624 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Kyle Kuzma and Khris Middleton might be similar players, but it's unlikely Kuzma will see the same success Middleton did in Milwaukee. Parting ways with the distinguished veteran was a tough pill to swallow for the Bucks.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">11. Los Angeles Clippers (29-23)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>10</p><p>Will the second-unit additions of Bogdan Bogdanovic and Ben Simmons, brought in to replace Kevin Porter Jr. and Terance Mann, help improve the Clippers' sometimes lousy offense? Probably not, but at least Kawhi Leonard is healthy.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">12. Indiana Pacers (29-23)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>11</p><p>In just six February games, Indiana has already surpassed its loss count for January, when it had the league's best winning percentage (83.3%). May as well call them the Can't Keep Up The Pacers.</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">13. Golden State Warriors (27-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>19</p><p>Jimmy Butler is fitting in well, averaging 22.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and five assists in two double-digit wins over the Bulls and Bucks. His play can guide the Warriors out of the play-in tournament.</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">14. Phoenix Suns (26-27)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>13</p><p>Credit to Bradley Beal's resolve. While enforcing his no-trade clause, he averaged 18.6 points and shot 48.3% from deep in seven pre-deadline games. Since then, though, he's missed three straight with a sprained toe.</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">15. Sacramento Kings (27-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>16</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765847/cropped_GettyImages-2194316749.jpg?ts=1737096034" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765847/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194316749.jpg?ts=1737096034 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765847/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194316749.jpg?ts=1737096034 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765847/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194316749.jpg?ts=1737096034 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765847/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194316749.jpg?ts=1737096034 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765847/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194316749.jpg?ts=1737096034 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ezra Shaw / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>DeMar DeRozan has been thriving as the top offensive option since De'Aaron Fox was shipped to San Antonio. The six-time All-Star is averaging 25.4 points while shooting a whopping 44.4% from deep. The Kings are 3-2 since Fox's departure.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">16. Detroit Pistons (28-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>15</p><p>Only nine teams have won 14 or more games in 2025, and the Pistons are among them. Forget the play-in: Detroit is suddenly within touching distance of home-court advantage in the first round.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">17. Miami Heat (25-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>18</p><p>The Butler trade saga is finally over, as the Heat acquired Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and Davion Mitchell from the Warriors for the disgruntled veteran. Miami can now focus on its current roster and play out the season.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">18. Orlando Magic (26-29)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>17</p><p>An injury-plagued campaign paired with a do-nothing deadline day speaks to a team on the rise but still stuck in the middle. Orlando will simultaneously shift focus to the future while harboring visions of slaying giants in this season's playoffs. </p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">19. Atlanta Hawks (26-28)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>21</p><p>Atlanta folded its hand at the deadline, instead opting to move forward with a core of Zaccharie Risacher and Dyson Daniels around Trae Young. Despite the future-oriented outlook, they've won three straight.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">20. San Antonio Spurs (23-28)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>20</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770112/cropped_GettyImages-2198747833.jpg?ts=1739327410" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770112/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198747833.jpg?ts=1739327410 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770112/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198747833.jpg?ts=1739327410 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770112/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198747833.jpg?ts=1739327410 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770112/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198747833.jpg?ts=1739327410 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770112/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198747833.jpg?ts=1739327410 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jacob Kupferman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Spurs have played three games in four nights, and they were each decided by a single point. Back-to-back one-point losses to the Charlotte Hornets and Magic will do little to inspire hope.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">21. Portland Trail Blazers (23-31)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>25</p><p>The Blazers have arguably been the league's hottest team for a month, winning 11 of their last 13 contests. Portland has seven players averaging 10 or more points since the winning streak began.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">22. Philadelphia 76ers (20-33)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>22</p><p>The Sixers shouldn't risk injuring Joel Embiid further just to make the play-in. If they commit to the tank, they won't have to send OKC their first-rounder if it's inside the top six - Philadelphia currently has the seventh-worst record.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">23. Dallas Mavericks (28-26)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>14</p><p>Anthony Davis put up a first-half double-double in his Mavs debut before promptly straining his adductor. Dallas' jewel in the Luka trade is expected to miss multiple weeks, and there's no official timeline for his return.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">24. Chicago Bulls (22-32)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>23</p><p>Arturas Karnisovas seems content to languish in the middle and just contend for a play-in tournament spot. The Bulls should have ripped the Band-Aid off completely and sold everything at the deadline.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">25. Toronto Raptors (17-37)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>24</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770011/cropped_GettyImages-2195752362.jpg?ts=1739295878" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770011/w220xh124_GettyImages-2195752362.jpg?ts=1739295878 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770011/w320xh180_GettyImages-2195752362.jpg?ts=1739295878 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770011/w640xh360_GettyImages-2195752362.jpg?ts=1739295878 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770011/w768xh432_GettyImages-2195752362.jpg?ts=1739295878 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770011/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2195752362.jpg?ts=1739295878 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mark Blinch / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The addition of Brandon Ingram has sent Toronto's alleged rebuild in a drastically different direction. Raptors president Masai Ujiri's tinkering with the roster makes us think of the 'have one's cake and eat it too' idiom.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">26. Brooklyn Nets (19-34)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>27</p><p>Buying out Simmons was the Nets' best possible long-term move. The 28-year-old didn't fit the team's future timeline, so dealing him allowed Brooklyn to pivot to younger players who could develop into mainstays.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">27. Utah Jazz (12-40)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>29</p><p>How many inefficient, score-first guards can one team accumulate? The Jazz are trying their best to find the answer to this mathematical mystery. At least 21-year-old Brice Sensabaugh has made strides as a creator.</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">28. New Orleans Pelicans (12-41)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>28</p><p>The Brandon Ingram era ended in New Orleans with two first-round playoff exits, including a sweep last season at the hands of the Thunder. Ideally, Zion Williamson and Co. can lead the Pelicans to more success.</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">29. Charlotte Hornets (13-38)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>26</p><p>One of the NBA's biggest storylines is finding out which team will end up with Mark Williams. Charlotte is reportedly disputing the center's failed physical which nixed a trade with the Lakers.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">30. Washington Wizards (9-44)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>30</p><p>It's always been about the big picture. Turning actual players into draft capital and giving the young core - which is leading the league in rookie minutes - more responsibility is refreshingly avant-garde for this franchise.</p>

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