How to watch Detroit Pistons vs Toronto Raptors NBA game: Tip-off time, cable channels, livestream providers

How to watch Detroit Pistons vs Toronto Raptors NBA game: Tip-off time, cable channels, livestream providers

This contest, set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, serves as a critical final examination for both franchises before the All-Star break. As the Detroit Pistons (39-13) look to maintain their precarious grip on the first seed in the conference, the Toronto Raptors (32-22) enter the matchup as the fifth seed, seeking to capitalize on a recent surge and the home-court advantage provided by one of the league’s most fervent environments. The strategic implications of this game have been significantly altered by a recent league-wide disciplinary ruling, which has left the Pistons’ frontcourt severely depleted and forced both coaching staffs to engage in a rapid tactical recalibration.

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The Pistons have established a distinct identity defined by “throwback” physicality and an elite defensive architecture that currently ranks second in the league in defensive rating at 109.3. Their success is predicated on a high-low offensive system and a defensive scheme that prioritizes rim protection and rebounding dominance, where they currently rank third in the league with an average of 45.7 boards per game.

The centerpiece of this resurgence is All-Star point guard Cade Cunningham, who has evolved into a legitimate MVP candidate and an All-NBA caliber floor general. Cunningham’s averages of 25.3 points and 9.6 assists per game reflect a player who has mastered the art of game control, leveraging his 6-foot-6 frame to manipulate defenses and create high-percentage looks for his teammates. Furthermore, the defensive emergence of Ausar Thompson, the reigning Defensive Player of the Month for December and January, has given Detroit a versatile perimeter stopper capable of neutralizing the league’s most explosive wings. Despite this success, the Pistons face a moment of extreme adversity as they arrive in Toronto without their primary interior tandem of Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart due to a multi-game league suspension, testing the depth and resilience of a roster that has otherwise been the model of consistency in 2026.

The Toronto Raptors have navigated the 2025-26 season with a focus on maximizing the high-ceiling potential of their core duo, Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, positioning themselves as a dangerous fifth seed in the Eastern Conference with a 32-22 record. Under the guidance of Head Coach Darko Rajakovic, the Raptors have implemented a free-flowing offensive system that emphasizes ball movement and pace, currently ranking third in the NBA in assists per game at 29.5. Ingram’s has proven to be a masterstroke for the organization; Ingram was recently named as an All-Star injury replacement for Steph Curry, marking his second career All-Star nod and validating his impact as Toronto’s leading scorer at 22.0 points per game. His pairing with Scottie Barnes, who is averaging a dominant 19.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 5.6 assists, has created a versatile forward tandem that few teams have the length or mobility to contain.

Toronto’s identity in early 2026 is also bolstered by one of the league’s most effective bench units, which has consistently provided positive net ratings while bridging the gap between the starting rotations.The emergence of rookie Collin Murray-Boyles and the steady play of Sandro Mamukelashvili have given the Raptors the depth required to survive a grueling regular-season schedule. In February, the team further strengthened its rotation by acquiring veteran Trayce Jackson-Davis from the Golden State Warriors, a move designed to address a perceived lack of size and rebounding in the frontcourt.

How to watch Detroit Pistons vs Toronto Raptors online – national and local U.S. TV channels & live streams

For viewers in the Detroit metropolitan area and surrounding regions, the primary carrier for this matchup is the FanDuel Sports Network Detroit (FDSDET). This network, which replaced the previous Bally Sports branding, serves as the exclusive regional sports home for the Pistons, providing comprehensive pre-game, live-action, and post-game analysis. Local fans can access the broadcast through traditional cable and satellite providers or via the FanDuel Sports Network’s standalone streaming application, which offers a direct-to-consumer option for cord-cutters within the team’s designated market area.

In Canada, the broadcast rights are primarily managed by TSN (The Sports Network), with this specific game scheduled for national coverage on TSN4. The Canadian broadcast is expected to leverage its local expertise to highlight the rise of Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, providing a narrative centered on Toronto’s return to contention. For fans outside the immediate Detroit and Toronto markets, the game is available via NBA League Pass, the league’s flagship out-of-market subscription service. It is essential for viewers to note that local blackout restrictions remain in effect for League Pass subscribers residing within the broadcast territories of FDSDET and TSN.

How to watch Detroit Pistons vs Toronto Raptors internationally

If you are outside of the USA, the NBA game between Detroit Pistons vs Toronto Raptors should be available to livestream with an NBA League Pass.

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Probable Starting Lineups

The historical data between the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors reveals a period of recent dominance for the Pistons, who have secured victories in seven of their last eight meetings. This shift is particularly noteworthy given Toronto’s earlier success in the series. On April 4, 2025, the Pistons visited Toronto and earned a 117-105 win, covering a 10-point spread in a game that stayed under the total of 226.0. Earlier in that season, on January 11, 2025, Detroit defended their home court with a 123-114 victory, a game that surpassed the 226.0 over/under mark. The November 25, 2024, meeting was a much more defensive affair, with Detroit edging out a 102-100 win at home, though Toronto managed to cover the four-point spread.

Ten days prior, on November 15, 2024, the Pistons earned another road victory in Toronto with a 99-95 scoreline, covering a 2.5-point spread. The trend extends back into the 2023-24 season, where Detroit won 113-104 on March 13, 2024, and famously snapped a historical losing streak with a 129-127 home win on December 30, 2023. Toronto’s last home win of note in the series occurred on November 19, 2023, when they routed the Pistons 142-113, covering as 9.5-point favorites. Despite Detroit’s historical record of 9 wins to 5 for Toronto in the most recent stretch of games, the current rosters have evolved, and the absence of Detroit’s starting frontcourt on February 11, 2026, presents the Raptors with their best opportunity in years to reset the narrative of the series.

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Head-to-Head Series History

The historical data between the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors reveals a period of recent dominance for the Pistons, who have secured victories in seven of their last eight meetings.This shift is particularly noteworthy given Toronto’s earlier success in the series. On April 4, 2025, the Pistons visited Toronto and earned a 117-105 win, covering a 10-point spread in a game that stayed under the total of 226.0. Earlier in that season, on January 11, 2025, Detroit defended their home court with a 123-114 victory, a game that surpassed the 226.0 over/under mark. The November 25, 2024, meeting was a much more defensive affair, with Detroit edging out a 102-100 win at home, though Toronto managed to cover the four-point spread.

Ten days prior, on November 15, 2024, the Pistons earned another road victory in Toronto with a 99-95 scoreline, covering a 2.5-point spread. The trend extends back into the 2023-24 season, where Detroit won 113-104 on March 13, 2024, and famously snapped a historical losing streak with a 129-127 home win on December 30, 2023.Toronto’s last home win of note in the series occurred on November 19, 2023, when they routed the Pistons 142-113, covering as 9.5-point favorites.Despite Detroit’s historical record of 9 wins to 5 for Toronto in the most recent stretch of games, the current rosters have evolved, and the absence of Detroit’s starting frontcourt on February 11, 2026, presents the Raptors with their best opportunity in years to reset the narrative of the series.

by Editor

Fantasy Basketball Week 17 Injury Report: Stephen Curry, others target post-break returns

Fantasy Basketball Week 17 Injury Report: Stephen Curry, others target post-break returns

With only three games on Thursday’s schedule, Wednesday is the last busy day on the NBA schedule before the All-Star break. From an injury management standpoint, fantasy managers have already seen how some lottery-bound teams plan to approach the rest of the season. Add in the injury situations for the rest of the league, and there will be a lot for managers to sift through as they look to give themselves the best chance of winning a league title.

The games immediately after the All-Star break are likely to feature some key players returning from injury, either for teams they’ve been with all season or for teams they’re making their post-trade debuts with. Let’s look at some of the injury situations affecting fantasy basketball in Week 17.

F Jonathan Kuminga, Atlanta Hawks

Kuminga’s season with the Warriors was a wash from a fantasy standpoint, and he finally got his wish at the trade deadline with the move to Atlanta. However, due to a left knee injury suffered while playing for the Warriors, he’s yet to appear in a game as a Hawk. That makes it challenging to project how he’ll fit into Quin Snyder’s rotation, but there’s certainly some intrigue. Kuminga (21 percent rostered, Yahoo!) will be re-evaluated after the All-Star break, so he’s unlikely to be available for any of Atlanta’s final three games of Week 17, beginning with the 76ers on February 19. For those who have been stashing Kuminga in an IL spot, you might as well wait it out.

F Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics

There was encouraging news regarding Tatum’s recovery from an Achilles tendon rupture on Monday when the team announced that he was being sent to the G League to participate in portions of the Maine Celtics’ practice that day. Rookies Hugo González and Amari Williams went as well, presumably to work with Tatum during the session. The six-time All-Star had already progressed to controlled 5-on-5 scrimmaging with members of the coaching staff, so the G League practice represents further progress.

However, it should be noted that Tatum still does not have a return timeline. When healthy, Sam Hauser (eight percent) has been the most recent fifth starter, mainly offering three-point production to those who can’t find it elsewhere. However, with Hauser out, second-year wing Baylor Scheierman (one percent) accounted for 10 points, 13 rebounds, five assists and two three-pointers in 29 minutes in Sunday’s loss to the Knicks. This may not affect the thinking of redraft league managers, but dynasty league managers have to be pleased with what Scheierman has shown recently when given more opportunities.

G Coby White, F Miles Bridges and C Moussa Diabaté, Charlotte Hornets

White played 30 minutes in each of his final two games as a member of the Bulls, which makes the fact that he’s yet to make his Hornets debut somewhat perplexing. However, the Hornets found that he was still dealing with a calf injury, which led the Bulls to receive two future second-round picks instead of three. He will also be re-evaluated after the All-Star break. White can provide scoring and playmaking off the bench, which could cut into rookie Sion James‘ (less than one percent) on-ball opportunities with the second unit. This won’t affect redraft leagues, however, as James should only be rostered in dynasty formats.

What will affect redraft leagues is the availability of Bridges and Diabaté, who have been issued four-game suspensions for their roles in Monday’s fight between the Hornets and Pistons. That means they’re off the board for Charlotte’s final four games of Week 17, with three being played after the All-Star break. Grant Williams (one percent) and Ryan Kalkbrenner (12 percent) take on added importance within the Hornets’ rotation, with the latter being the preferred pickup.

F/C Jalen Smith, Chicago Bulls

Smith has missed the last two games with a strained right calf and, at the time of publication, was listed as doubtful for Wednesday’s game against the Celtics. Guerschon Yabusele (five percent), acquired from the Knicks at the trade deadline, moved into the starting lineup, totaling 15 points, four rebounds, one assist, two steals, two blocks and five three-pointers. After an excellent Bulls debut, his two starts were underwhelming. Nick Richards (five percent) offered superior production despite coming off the bench, totaling 27 points, 13 rebounds, one assist, three steals, three blocks and one three-pointer. Yabusele getting more minutes may give him the edge in the eyes of some, but don’t sleep on Richards if you’re digging that deep for a streamer.

G/F Peyton Watson, Denver Nuggets

Watson suffered a strained left hamstring during Denver’s February 4 loss to the Knicks and will be re-evaluated in four weeks. With Aaron Gordon also out, the Nuggets turned to Julian Strawther (one percent) to fill the void in the starting lineup. In two starts, the former first-round pick recorded 39 points, 11 rebounds, two steals and six three-pointers.

While Strawther did not offer much beyond points, rebounds, and three-pointers, he shot 50 percent (15-of-30) from the field. Tim Hardaway Jr. (14 percent) and Bruce Brown (three percent) are also worth considering, maybe even more than Strawther if there are any questions about his ability to build on his first two starts.

C Jalen Duren and F/C Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons

Like Hornets Bridges and Diabaté, Duren and Stewart were suspended for their roles during Monday’s fight in Charlotte. While Duren was suspended for two games, Stewart’s disciplinary history and leaving the bench to join the altercation led to a seven-game suspension. No Duren and Stewart for the remainder of Monday’s game meant more Paul Reed (four percent), who finished the victory with 12 points, three rebounds, one assist, two steals, one block and one three-pointer in 18 minutes. Given what he’s shown in the past when allowed to play extended minutes, Reed is someone to add immediately. Duren will miss games against Toronto (Wednesday) and New York (February 19) before being eligible to return on the 21st against the Bulls.

G Stephen Curry and F/C Kristaps Porziņǵis, Golden State Warriors

Curry’s case of runner’s knee has sidelined him for Golden State’s last five games, including their February 11 matchup with the Spurs. He’ll also miss Sunday’s All-Star Game, with the hope being that Curry won’t miss much, if any, time after the break. Gui Santos (14 percent) and Pat Spencer (10 percent) have done enough recently to earn spots in the starting lineup, with the second spot being cleared due to Steve Kerr’s decision to bring Brandin Podziemski (35 percent) off the bench. Over the past week, Spencer and Santos have been top-100 players in eight-cat formats according to Basketball Monster, with the former cracking the top-50.

Regarding Porziņǵis, the hope is that he’ll make his Warriors debut on February 19 against the Celtics. Given the time missed due to his Achilles injury and illness, the 7-foot-3 forward/center will likely be under a minutes restriction once cleared. Quinten Post (one percent) has fallen out of the rotation recently, and the quest for playing time becomes even more challenging for him once Porziņǵis is cleared to play.

G/F Johnny Furphy and C Ivica Zubac, Indiana Pacers

Already hit hard by injuries, the Pacers took another blow on Sunday as Johnny Furphy suffered a season-ending right ACL tear. Jarace Walker (20 percent) may have been the player most likely to move into the starting lineup, but he was unavailable for Tuesday’s win over the Knicks due to illness. So, Quenton Jackson (one percent) received the nod and had a good night, finishing with 19 points, six rebounds, three assists, one steal, one block and four three-pointers in 28 minutes. What makes him challenging to trust as a streamer is his contract, as the guard is still on a two-way deal. Until he’s placed on a standard deal, Jackson isn’t guaranteed to be active every night. For that reason, those who added Walker might as well stick it out.

Zubac has been dealing with an ankle injury, and his Pacers debut won’t occur until after the All-Star break. How much he plays the rest of the season is the question, as the Pacers surely hope to hold onto the protected first-round pick that they sent to the Clippers as part of that trade. Jay Huff (20 percent) has been the starting center for most of this season, but Micah Potter (less than one percent) started on Tuesday. Huff remains the superior fantasy option, but that is something to keep an eye on.

G Darius Garland, LA Clippers

Because of the Paul George trade the Clippers made a few years ago, their 2026 first-round pick is going to the Thunder no matter what happens this season. So, there’s no incentive to punt on the rest of the season. Garland suffered a right great toe injury before being traded to Los Angeles for James Harden, and he has yet to make his Clippers debut. The hope is that he’ll be able to do so after the All-Star break, with the Clippers playing the Nuggets and Lakers on February 19 and 20.

Kris Dunn (nine percent) has served as the starting point guard, but his value has mainly been limited to assists and steals. New addition Bennedict Mathurin (83 percent) made his Clippers debut in Tuesday’s loss to the Rockets, finishing with nine points, seven rebounds, four assists and three steals in 26 minutes.

F OG Anunoby, New York Knicks

Anunoby has been out since February 4 with a toe injury, most recently sitting out Tuesday’s loss to the Pacers. He’s also been ruled out for Wednesday’s game against the 76ers, and details have been scarce regarding the severity of the injury. Landry Shamet (two percent) can provide three-point production as the replacement in the starting lineup, and rookie Mohamed Diawara (less than one percent) has seen his playing time increase. However, neither player qualifies as a must-add with Anunoby out of the lineup.

G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder

Gilgeous-Alexander suffered an abdominal strain during Oklahoma City’s February 3 win over the Magic and is expected to be re-evaluated after the All-Star break. Cason Wallace (29 percent) has served as the starting point guard for the last two games and has offered solid fantasy production in that role. At a minimum, he’s worth streaming for Wednesday’s game against the Suns.

What also helped the Thunder account for SGA’s absence was Jalen Williams (99 percent) returning from a hamstring injury. Limited to 24 minutes in Monday’s win over the Lakers, J-Dub accounted for 23 points, three rebounds, one assist, and one steal. He was only 6-of-17 from the field, but it feels safe to expect Williams to clean that up as he shakes off the rust.

G Grayson Allen, Phoenix Suns

Allen has missed the Suns’ last two games after suffering a sprained right ankle during a February 5 loss to the Warriors. There was not a worthwhile streamer in this spot, as Allen’s injury coincided with Devin Booker (100 percent) returning from a sprained ankle of his own. The Suns’ star has played 32 minutes in each of his two games back in the lineup, totaling 40 points, six rebounds, 15 assists, two steals and four three-pointers in games against the 76ers and Mavericks. Jalen Green (79 percent) has also returned, which has negated some of Collin Gillespie‘s (38 percent) fantasy value.

G Russell Westbrook, G/F Zach LaVine, F De’Andre Hunter and C Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings

Like the Jazz and Wizards, the Kings are another team to keep a close eye on after the All-Star break. They did not move on from any of their high-priced veterans at the trade deadline, so now minutes limits and injury management nights come into play. Wednesday’s game against Utah will be the third that LaVine has missed due to a finger injury, while Sabonis has missed the last three straight and five of the Kings’ last six.

Those absences have led two rookies, Nique Clifford (18 percent) and Maxime Raynaud (16 percent), to move into the starting lineup, with a third, Dylan Cardwell (19 percent), picking up additional minutes off the bench. In the Kings’ most recent game, a February 9 loss to the Pelicans, Raynaud finished one rebound shy of his first 20/20 game. Given the direction the Kings’ season is headed, all three stand to have value after the All-Star break.

Hunter, acquired from the Cavaliers before the trade deadline, suffered a left eye injury during Sacramento’s February 6 loss to the Clippers and will be re-evaluated after the All-Star break. Daeqwon Plowden (less than one percent) started one of the games that Hunter has missed so far, with Precious Achiuwa (two percent) doing so in the other. Neither offers the upside of any of the rookies mentioned above.

The last injury is Westbrook, who sprained his left ankle during the loss to the Pelicans. He won’t play on Wednesday against the Jazz, which may mean a move into the starting lineup for Devin Carter (two percent). The Kings’ 2024 first-round pick, the next two months are key for Carter as he looks to establish himself as a pro. Playing time should not be an issue for him, simply because of the Kings’ need to evaluate the guard.

G Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs

Castle made one of the most impressive defensive plays of the season during San Antonio’s February 10 win over the Lakers, blocking a Rui Hachimura dunk attempt. Unfortunately, it came at a cost, as the reigning Rookie of the Year landed hard on his back and had to leave the game. Castle was diagnosed with a pelvic contusion, with X-rays coming back negative. He said afterward that he wanted to play in Wednesday’s game against the Suns, but that does not feel like a risk that the Spurs need to take.

If they decide to sit Castle, Harrison Barnes (six percent) would return to the starting lineup, raising his fantasy ceiling slightly. Fantasy managers may be better off rolling the dice on Dylan Harper (17 percent), even though the rookie is likely to remain in a reserve role.

F/C Collin Murray-Boyles, Toronto Raptors

Murray-Boyles aggravated the left thumb injury that he had been playing through during Toronto’s February 8 win over the Pacers, which forced him to exit during the first half. The good news for the Raptors is that Jakob Poeltl (75 percent) is considered questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Pistons after being sidelined since December 21 due to a lingering back injury. If Poeltl can play, he’ll likely be under a minutes restriction, which preserves the fantasy value of Sandro Mamukelashvili (23 percent). If Poeltl can’t go, it will be Mamu and Trayce Jackson-Davis (one percent) who are given the task of handling the center responsibilities.

G Keyonte George, Utah Jazz

While there have been some lineup shenanigans in Utah as the team looks to hold onto its first-round pick, which goes to Oklahoma City if it falls outside the top-8, George is dealing with a sprained ankle. Wednesday’s game against the Kings will be the second straight and fifth out of the last six that he’s missed. The good news for fantasy managers is that there is an easy answer in figuring out where to turn with George sidelined: Isaiah Collier (42 percent).

Over the past two weeks, he has provided third-round value in eight-cat formats. And unlike some of Utah’s older players, the team’s goal of protecting its first-round pick should not result in him playing fewer minutes during the final two months of the regular season.

F/C Anthony Davis, Washington Wizards

While it was reported last week that Davis was not expected to play again this season, Wizards GM Will Dawkins said on Sunday that he believes the forward/center will make his debut for the team before the end of the regular season. Davis, who is recovering from ligament damage in his left hand, will meet with a doctor during the break, and that evaluation should give him and the Wizards a better idea of where he is recovery-wise. Davis is expected to be with the Wizards after the All-Star break.

Given where the Wizards are in the standings, and their need to hold onto their 2026 first-round pick (it goes to New York if it falls outside the top-8), fantasy managers should not expect to see too much of Davis or Trae Young if they’re deemed healthy enough to play. And fantasy managers have some evidence to work with, as Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George have seen their minutes cut recently. Will Riley (12 percent) and Justin Champagnie (nine percent) should play plenty, and the same goes for Tre Johnson (11 percent), who makes his return from a sprained left ankle on Wednesday.

by Editor

NBA 3-Point Contest 2026: How to watch, format, points, money balls, participants, past champions

NBA 3-Point Contest 2026: How to watch, format, points, money balls, participants, past champions

NBA All-Star Weekend continues Saturday on NBC and Peacock with the State Farm 3-Point Contest.

The 3-Point Contest has been a cornerstone of the NBA’s All-Star Saturday Night since its 1986 debut, taking place before the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest.

Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird won the first three editions of the 3-Point Contest, the last while famously wearing his warm-up jacket throughout the competition (which he cliched by holding his right index finger in the air as the shot sailed toward the hoop).

In 2022, Karl-Anthony Towns became the only center to win the 3-Point Contest. Power forward Kevin Love won the event in 2012.

NBA: 2026 All-Star Game Press Conference
How to watch 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest: TV/live stream info for NBA’s All-Star Saturday
Everything you need to know about the 2026 AT&T Slam Dunk Contest as part of the NBA’s All-Star Saturday on NBC and Peacock.

NBC and Peacock will have coverage of the Castrol Rising Stars Championship on Friday, the State Farm 3-Point Contest, the Kia Shooting Stars and the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest on Saturday and the Stripes vs. World All-Star Game on Sunday.

More information below on the State Farm 3-Point Contest, including how to watch:

Click here to sign up for Peacock!

How to watch the State Farm 3-Point Contest

  • When: Saturday, Feb. 14
  • Where: Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California
  • Time: 5 p.m. ET
  • TV: NBC
  • Streaming: Peacock

Who is competing in the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest?

This year’s eight-player field:

Player Team
Devin Booker Phoenix Suns
Kon Knueppel Charlotte Hornets
Damian Lillard Portland Trail Blazers
Tyrese Maxey Philadelphia 76ers
Donovan Mitchell Cleveland Cavaliers
Jamal Murray Denver Nuggets
Bobby Portis Jr. Milwaukee Bucks
Norman Powell Miami Heat

Who won the 2025 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest?

Tyler Herro won the event last year in San Francisco, joining James Jones, Daequan Cook, Jason Kapono and Glen Rice as the record fifth Miami Heat player to win the 3-Point Contest.

How does the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest work?

Click here for the full format and rules for the 3-Point Contest, as provided by the NBA.

Eight players will compete in a two-round, timed shooting competition. Some key points, per the NBA’s format explainer:

  • Ball racks are positioned at five main shooting locations around the three-point arc. Each rack contains five balls.
  • Four of the racks contain four official NBA game balls and one multicolored “money” ball.
  • A made basket with an NBA game ball is worth one point; a made basket with the money ball is worth two points.
  • For each of the four racks with both game balls and a money ball, the money ball can only be shot after the four NBA game balls are shot. If a player shoots a money ball out of sequence, the shot will be void and will not count.
  • The fifth rack will be a special “all money ball” rack containing five multicolored “money” balls (meaning each made basket for a ball on this rack is worth two points). Each competitor will decide where this rack is placed (i.e., at which one of the five main shooting locations).
  • A player may not start on or over the three-point line while shooting. A basket does not count if the line is violated.
  • Two ball pedestals are positioned at “From the Logo” (positioned on either side of the traditional rack at the top of the three-point arc; equidistant between that rack and the traditional adjacent “wing” rack locations; and six feet behind the three-point line). Each ball pedestal holds one blue money ball, which is worth 3 points for a made basket.
  • A player must begin his shooting motion with at least one foot in “From the Logo,” as designated by a floor decal.
  • A player must exhaust the ball racks and pedestals in competition order before moving on to the next shooting location. If a player shoots a blue money ball out of sequence, the shot will be void and will not count. If a player skips a blue money and shoots one or more balls in the next rack, the blue money ball is eliminated and will not count if subsequently shot and made.
  • Each competitor has 70 seconds (1:10) to shoot as many of the 27 balls as he can.
  • The three players with the highest scores in the First Round advance to the Championship Round. The competition order for the Championship Round will be determined by the inverse order of First Round scores.

Who has won the most NBA 3-Point Contests?

Larry Bird and Craig Hodges are tied with a record three victories in the event. Among active players, Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard each have two victories.

NBA 3-Point Contest past winners

Year Winner Team Location
2025 Tyler Herro Heat San Francisco
2024 Damian Lillard Bucks Indianapolis
2023 Damian Lillard Trail Blazers Salt Lake City
2022 Karl-Anthony Towns Timberwolves Cleveland
2021 Steph Curry Warriors Atlanta
2020 Buddy Hield Kings Chicago
2019 Joe Harris Nets Charlotte
2018 Devin Booker Suns Los Angeles
2017 Eric Gordon Rockets New Orleans
2016 Klay Thompson Warriors Toronto
2015 Stephen Curry Warriors New York City
2014 Marco Belinelli Spurs New Orleans
2013 Kyrie Irving Cavaliers Houston
2012 Kevin Love Timberwolves Orlando
2011 James Jones Heat Los Angeles
2010 Paul Pierce Celtics Dallas
2009 Daequan Cook Heat Phoenix
2008 Jason Kapono Raptors New Orleans
2007 Jason Kapono Heat Las Vegas
2006 Dirk Nowitzki Mavs Houston
2005 Quentin Richardson Suns Denver
2004 Voshon Lenard Nuggets Los Angeles
2003 Peja Stojakovic Kings Atlanta
2002 Peja Stojakovic Kings Philadelphia
2001 Ray Allen Bucks Washington, D.C.
2000 Jeff Hornacek Jazz Oakland
1998 Jeff Hornacek Jazz New York
1997 Steve Kerr Bulls Cleveland
1996 Tim Legler Wizards San Antonio
1995 Glen Rice Heat Phoenix
1994 Mark Price Cavs Minnesota
1993 Mark Price Cavs Salt Lake City
1992 Craig Hodges Bulls Orlando
1991 Craig Hodges Bulls Charlotte
1990 Craig Hodges Bulls Miami
1989 Dale Ellis Sonics Houston
1988 Larry Bird Celtics Chicago
1987 Larry Bird Celtics Seattle
1986 Larry Bird Celtics Dallas

What other NBA events are on NBC and Peacock for All-Star Weekend?

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

How to watch the NBA on NBC and Peacock:

Peacock NBA Monday will stream up to three Monday night games each week throughout the regular season. Coast 2 Coast Tuesday presents doubleheaders on Tuesday nights throughout the regular season on NBC and Peacock. On most Tuesdays, an 8 p.m. ET game will be on NBC stations in the Eastern and Central time zones, and an 8 p.m. PT game on NBC stations in the Pacific and often Mountain time zones.

Check local listings each week. Both games will stream live nationwide on Peacock. NBC Sports will launch Sunday Night Basketball across NBC and Peacock on Feb. 1, 2026. For a full schedule of the NBA on NBC and Peacock, click here.

How to sign up for Peacock:

Sign up here to watch all of our LIVE sports, sports shows, documentaries, classic matches, and more. You’ll also get tons of hit movies and TV shows, Originals, news, 24/7 channels, and current NBC and Bravo hits for whatever suits your mood.

NBA on NBC 2025-26 schedule:

Click here to see the full list of NBA games that will air on NBC and Peacock this season.

What devices does Peacock support?

You can enjoy Peacock on a variety of devices. View the full list of supported devices here.

by Editor

Spurs vs Lakers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

Spurs vs Lakers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

Only one team in the West postseason picture has gone better than 6-4 outright in its last 10 games: the San Antonio Spurs. And San Antonio should continue that surge against the Los Angeles Lakers tonight.

My Spurs vs. Lakers predictions believe in the young team that may be becoming the best team in the West, one of many NBA picks on Tuesday, February 10.

Spurs vs Lakers prediction

Spurs vs Lakers best bet: Spurs -9 (-110)

The schedules alone give too much of an edge to the San Antonio Spurs. The Los Angeles Lakers lost to the Thunder last night, and this will be the Lakers’ sixth game in 10 days, including their third in four nights. San Antonio’s two days off seem luxurious by comparison.

The L.A. nightlife could trouble the Spurs, but more likely, their youth should run the Lakers ragged. Victor Wembanyama gets the headlines, but San Antonio also plays at a top-half pace.

Spurs vs Lakers same-game parlay

LeBron James has fallen short of this modest prop in three straight games and in six of his last seven. Father Time may finally be winning. A springy James may be Los Angeles’s best defense against Wembanyama, but without that, the Lakers have no proper height to slow the French phenom.

Spurs vs Lakers SGP

  • Spurs -9
  • LeBron James Under 22.5 points
  • Victor Wembanyama Over 22.5 points

Our “from downtown” SGP: Lakers Run Dry

The thought here is pretty simple: Expect Los Angeles to show its exhaustion throughout.

Spurs vs Lakers SGP

  • Spurs -9
  • LeBron James Under 22.5 points
  • Victor Wembanyama Over 22.5 points
  • Luka Doncic Under 3.5 made threes
  • Under 227.5

Spurs vs Lakers odds

  • Spread: Spurs -9.5 (-105) | Lakers +9.5 (-115)
  • Moneyline: Spurs -350 | Lakers +275
  • Over/Under: Over 227 (-110) | Under 226 (-110)

Spurs vs Lakers betting trend to know

San Antonio is 3-0-1 against the spread this month. Find more NBA betting trends for Spurs vs. Lakers.

How to watch Spurs vs Lakers

Location Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Tip-off 10:30 p.m. ET
TV NBA TV

Spurs vs Lakers latest injuries

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Pacers vs. Knicks predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends and best bets for February 10

Pacers vs. Knicks predictions: Odds, recent stats, trends and best bets for February 10

The New York Knicks (34–19) host the Indiana Pacers (13–40) tonight at Madison Square Garden. While this is a rematch of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, these two teams are trending in opposite directions; the Knicks have won nine of their last ten games, while the injury-depleted Pacers have the league’s second-worst record and have lost four straight to begin the month of February.

The Knicks currently tied for second place in the Eastern Conference standings with the Boston Celtics. The Knicks have been nearly unbeatable at home winning 21 of 27 games at the Garden. Meanwhile, Indiana’s injuries have crushed this team’s offense which currently ranks last in the NBA averaging just 109.4 points per game.

 

Key Player to Watch: Karl-Anthony Towns

Towns has been a force for New York, recording double-doubles in five consecutive games. Often criticized for not mixing it up in the paint, Towns may not face much resistance tonight as he faces a Pacers’ defense that ranks 29th in points allowed in the paint (54.2 per game).

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

After 24 years, the NBA is back on NBC and Peacock, combining the nostalgia of an iconic era with the innovative future of basketball coverage. The NBA on NBC YouTube channel delivers fans must-see highlights, analysis, and exclusive and unique content. 

 

Game Details and How to Watch Live: Pacers at Knicks

  • Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
  • Time: 7:30PM EST
  • Site: Madison Square Garden
  • City: New York, NY
  • Network/Streaming: FDSN Indiana, MSG

Rotoworld has you covered with all the latest NBA Player News for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

 

Game Odds: Pacers at Knicks

The latest odds as of Tuesday courtesy of DraftKings:

  • Moneyline: Indiana Pacers (+440), New York Knicks (-600)
  • Spread: Knicks -12.5
  • Total: 225.5 points

This game opened Knicks -11.5 with the Total set at 224.5.

Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!

Expected Starting Lineups: Pacers at Knicks

Indiana Pacers

  • PG Andrew Nembhard
  • SG Aaron Nesmith
  • SF Jarace Walker
  • PF Pascal Siakam
  • C Jay Huff

 

New York Knicks

  • PG Jalen Brunson
  • SG Josh Hart
  • SF Mikal Bridges
  • PF OG Anunoby
  • C Karl-Anthony Towns

Injury Report: Pacers at Knicks

Indiana Pacers

  • T.J. McConnell (hamstring) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
  • Aaron Nesmith (hand) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
  • Micah Potter (hip) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
  • Ethan Thompson (thumb) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
  • Obi Toppin (foot) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
  • Ivica Zubac (ankle) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
  • Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) remains sidelined for the Pacers
  • Johnny Furphy (knee) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game

New York Knicks

  • OG Anunoby (toe) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game
  • Miles McBride (core) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game
  • Mitchell Robinson (ankle) has been declared OUT of tonight’s game

Important stats, trends and insights: Pacers at Knicks

  • The Pacers are 3-22 on the road this season
  • The Knicks are 21-6 at home this season
  • The Knicks are 30-24 ATS this season
  • The Pacers are 26-27 ATS this season
  • The OVER has cashed in 26 of the Knicks’ 54 games this season (26-28)
  • The OVER has cashed in just 21 of the Pacers’ 53 games this season (21-32)
  • Pascal Siakam has not grabbed more than 6 rebounds in any of his last 5 games
  • Aaron Nesmith has grabbed 1 rebound and tallied 1 assist in each of his last 2 games
  • Jalen Brunson is averaging 7.6 assists in February
  • Mikal Bridges is averaging 1.5 3-pointers over his last 6 games 

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

 

Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

 

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Pacers and Knicks’ game:

 

  • Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline
  • Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Knicks -12.5 ATS
  • Total: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Game Total OVER 225.5

 

Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!

 

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on Socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

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Spurs vs Lakers Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for February 10

Spurs vs Lakers Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for February 10

Our NBA player prop projections for Spurs vs. Lakers highlight where recent usage, minutes, and matchup trends suggest real betting value.

We break down the player props worth betting and the lines that look off for Tuesday, February 10. 

Be sure to check out our Spurs vs. Lakers predictions for more NBA picks ahead of game time. 

Spurs vs Lakers computer picks for February 10

Spurs Spurs Lakers Lakers
Fox o17.5 points
<<+100>>		 Smart o10.5 points 
<<-120>>
Champagnie o8.5 points
<<-120>>		 Ayton o10.5 points
<<-120>>
Vassell o12.5 points
<<-115>>		 James o1.5 threes
<<-112>>

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Spurs computer picks

De’Aaron Fox Over 17.5 points (+100)

Projection: 18.9 points

The Lakers continue to struggle containing quick guards, and that’s a problem against De’Aaron Fox’s downhill game. His usage and shot volume remain consistent, and with a projection of 18.9 points, the Over at plus money is simply priced too low.

🔥Bet Fox Now at bet365!

Julian Champagnie Over 8.5 points (-120)

Projection: 9.8 points

Julian Champagnie continues to benefit from consistent minutes and a clearly defined catch-and-shoot role, especially against defenses that collapse inside. With the Lakers allowing clean perimeter looks and his projection pushing close to double digits, 8.5 feels a step behind his current usage.

🔥Bet Champagnie Now at bet365!

Devin Vassell Over 12.5 points (-112)

Projection: 13.5 points

Devin Vassell’s scoring floor remains intact thanks to steady shot volume and a usage rate that doesn’t fluctuate much game to game. This is a modest number for a player projected north of 13 points, and in a matchup where points are expected, the Over makes sense before this line creeps higher.

🔥Bet Vassell Now at bet365!

Lakers computer picks

Marcus Smart Over 10.5 points (-120)

Projection: 13.6 points

Marcus Smart’s offensive role has expanded, and the projection reflects a noticeable bump in shot volume and production compared to where this line is set. At just 10.5 points, this number doesn’t fully account for his usage or minutes, making the Over playable as long as his role stays intact.

🔥Bet smart Now at bet365!

Deandre Ayton Over 10.5 points (-120)

Projection: 12.4 points

Deandre Ayton continues to benefit from reliable minutes and easy scoring opportunities around the rim, especially against teams that struggle with interior coverage. With a projection north of 12 points, 10.5 feels light for a player whose role doesn’t depend on hot shooting.

🔥Bet ayton Now at bet365!

LeBron James Over 1.5 threes (-112)

Projection: 2.2 threes

LeBron James‘ 3-point volume has quietly remained steady, and this line doesn’t reflect how often he’s willing to pull from deep when defenses sag off. With the projection landing above two made threes, the Over makes sense at a number that still leaves a margin.

🔥Bet james Now at bet365!

How to watch Spurs vs Lakers tonight

Location Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date Tuesday, February 10, 2025
Tip-off 10:30 p.m. ET
TV  FDSN SW, SPECSN 

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Child's play: Reigning NASCAR champion Kyle Larson adds team owner to his renowned racing resume

Child's play: Reigning NASCAR champion Kyle Larson adds team owner to his renowned racing resume

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Kyle Larson’s latest racing endeavor might be more challenging than “The Double.”

The two-time and reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion recently started his own micro-racing team — for his kids. Trucks, trailers, cars, engines, parts, shop space, employees, Larson added it all for his 11-year-old son, Owen, and his 7-year-old daughter, Audrey, to race scaled-down sprint cars more often in 2026.

“We are fully invested,” Kyle Larson said.

Larson, though, is dreading the financial thought of it becoming a three-driver operation because his youngest, 3-year-old Cooper, is the wildest of the bunch.

“In a perfect world, I would love for Cooper not to race,” Larson said. “He’s the craziest, for sure, of the three. I think he’ll be the most expensive, probably, because I’m sure he’ll be tearing up the most equipment. So, we’ll see if we can keep him out of it.”

Highly unlikely, especially if he’s trying to keep pace with Dad.

Larson is coming off his second Cup title, a somewhat surprising championship that came despite no wins over his final 24 events. Nonetheless, he finished ahead of fellow championship contenders Chase Briscoe, William Byron and Denny Hamlin in the season finale.

Hamlin had the championship within reach when Byron got a flat tire and hit the wall to bring out a late caution. Larson was the benefactor and hopes to carry some of that luck into the Daytona 500 on Sunday. He is winless in 12 tries in NASCAR’s premier event.

“I would imagine the feeling of winning (it would) be extremely massive, if it ever happens,” Larson quipped.

Larson hasn’t really been close, either. Daytona is the only regular NASCAR venue in which he doesn’t have a top-five finish. He crossed the line 20th last year.

“Prior to last year, I would just get caught up in wrecks and whatnot,” Larson said. “I wouldn’t say I have any more confidence this year than I did last year. I just hope that we have the same sort of good fortune as we did last year. Maybe it can be a few spots better to get a win.”

Larson has company in 0-for-Daytona club. Kyle Busch is winless in 20 starts in the 500, a skid that’s more of a head-scratcher than a heartbreaker considering the two-time series champ has won at just about every track on the circuit. Brad Keselowski is 0 for 16 in the Daytona 500, also baffling considering the 2012 series champ has six wins at NASCAR’s other superspeedway, Talladega.

Hall of Famers Tony Stewart, Rusty Wallace and Mark Martin are the most notable drivers to never win the Daytona 500.

Fellow Hall of Famer David Pearson needed 15 tries to win NASCAR’s signature event. Kyle Busch’s older brother, Kurt, needed 16. And NASCAR great Dale Earnhardt won in his 20th try — an iconic moment in series history.

“You feel it, for sure,” said Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who won the 500 in 2023 on his 12th try. “Most people get to double digits before they win a Daytona 500 these days. The more races that go by, the more you wonder if you’ll ever get one.

“You look at guys like Mark Martin and Tony Stewart who been super successful in our support and never got one. Kyle Busch is still trying. The more that goes by, the more pressure that ramps up every February.”

Larson insists he’s feeling no anxiety — at least not regarding the 500. He started his own series in 2023, the High Limit Racing Sprint Car Series, which has now expanded to 60 events.

He also races in other series, too. Most notably, the last two years, he attempted “The Double” – racing the Indianapolis 500 in the IndyCar Series and then hopping on a jet to make NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte, North Carolina, the same day.

Weather caused a logistical issue that didn’t allow him to complete the double in 2024, and he crashed last year in Charlotte.

NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick called Larson’s venture “a huge distraction” and was relieved the Cup champion would not make another attempt this season.

“Not only was it a distraction with the team, but coming back and wrecking in the 600 was mentally just a downer that he had to work his way through,” Hendrick said. “I’m super excited about this year.”

Larson agrees, especially with the addition of his micro-racing team.

“It’s honestly been a lot of fun, and I look forward to kind of having our own little touch on things,” he said.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

by Editor

Grizzlies vs Warriors Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

Grizzlies vs Warriors Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

You’d think the Memphis Grizzlies would be the NBA’s version of a doormat with the combination of injuries and players leaving via trades, but these Grizz have a little fight in them.

Tonight, they’ll face another depleted roster in the Golden State Warriors, who are somehow 9.5-point favorites.

My Grizzlies vs. Warriors predictions and NBA picks explain why that’s too many points for this Western Conference clash set to tip-off at 10:00 p.m. ET at the Chase Center on Monday, February 9.

Grizzlies vs Warriors prediction

Grizzlies vs Warriors best bet: Grizzlies +9.5 (-115)

No Steph, no Jimmy Buckets, and no Kristaps Porzingis means the Golden State Warriors have been struggling.

The no-Steph Curry thing has been the biggest problem, as the Warriors have averaged just 94.3 points in the four recent games their franchise player has missed.

The Memphis Grizzlies also have a roster that’s hard for even the biggest fan to recognize, but they’re putting up some good fights. The Grizz have averaged 122 points per game over their last five and are 3-1 ATS in their last four. 

This is too many points to cover for a team that can’t score.

Grizzlies vs Warriors same-game parlay

The Grizz have been surprisingly efficient recently, ranking sixth in offensive rating over the last five games.

The return of Ty Jerome has helped. After missing the entire season, he’s averaged 20 points in his first four games back, topping this 13.5 line three times.

Sophomore Jaylen Wells has also seen an uptick in production with added opportunities lately. Wells has topped 12.5 points in four straight games.

Grizzlies vs Warriors SGP

  • Grizzlies +9.5
  • Ty Jerome Over 13.5 points
  • Jaylen Wells Over 13.5 points

Our “from downtown” SGP: The Replacements

This is how the Grizzlies have played in recent weeks. Team basketball, with everyone doing their part. Even if you don’t know everyone’s name.

Grizzlies vs Warriors SGP

  • Ty Jerome Over 13.5 points
  • Jaylen Wells Over 13.5 points
  • Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Over 11.5 points
  • Cam Spencer Over 11.5 points

Grizzlies vs Warriors odds

  • Spread: Grizzlies +9.5 | Warriors -9.5
  • Moneyline: Grizzlies +320 | Warriors -400
  • Over/Under: Over 220.5 | Under 220.5

Grizzlies vs Warriors betting trend to know

The Warriors have covered the first-half spread in only 12 of their last 35 home games, resulting in -14.30 units and a -36% ROI. Find more NBA betting trends for Grizzlies vs. Warriors.

How to watch Grizzlies vs Warriors

Location Chase Center, San Francisco, CA
Date Monday, February 9, 2026
Tip-off 10:00 p.m. ET
TV FDSN Southeast-Memphis, NBC Sports Bay Area

Grizzlies vs Warriors latest injuries

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Kokomo Murase wins gold in women's big air, extending Japan's snowboarding success at the Olympics

Kokomo Murase wins gold in women's big air, extending Japan's snowboarding success at the Olympics

LIVIGNO, Italy (AP) — Japanese snowboarder Kokomo Murase won Olympic gold in women’s big air on Monday, two days after her teammates swept the top two medals in the men’s event.

Murase had already locked up a least a bronze medal when she went for broke on her last jump and nailed it to move to the top of the standings. She added the gold medal to her bronze from the same event at the 2022 Beijing Games.

Zoi Sadowski-Synnott of New Zealand repeated as silver medalist. She had been on the cusp of taking gold until Murase soared in front with the penultimate jump of the competition.

Seung-eun Yu of South Korea claimed bronze.

On Saturday, Japanese teammates Kira Kimura and Ryoma Kimata won gold and silver, respectively, in men’s big air.

Two-time defending champion Anna Gasser finished eighth, falling short in her bid to become the first snowboarder to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals. She fell on her first jump and had a costly bobble while landing her second.

___

AP Winter Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics

by Editor

NBA power rankings: New York Knicks rise to top 5 after trade deadline

NBA power rankings: New York Knicks rise to top 5 after trade deadline

The NBA trading deadline has come and gone and a handful of teams improved their positioning for the back half of the 2025-26 NBA season.

And with the NBA All-Star break coming up at the end of the week, it will offer teams a bit of a respite and chance to recharge before the grind continues.

The most fascinating teams to watch are the ones who bought before the deadline — the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics and Charlotte Hornets, for example — to see whether their moves can lead to tangible gains in the future.

Here are USA TODAY Sports’ NBA power rankings after Week 15 of the 2025-26 regular season:

USA TODAY Sports NBA power rankings

Note: Records and stats through Feb. 8. Parentheses show movement from last week’s rankings.

NBA Week 16 power rankings: Top 10

1. Detroit Pistons, 38-13 (—)

2. Oklahoma City Thunder, 40-13 (—)

3. San Antonio Spurs, 36-16 (+1)

4. New York Knicks, 34-19 (+5)

5. Boston Celtics, 34-19 (—)

6. Denver Nuggets, 34-19 (-3)

7. Houston Rockets, 32-19 (—)

8. Los Angeles Lakers, 32-19 (—)

9. Cleveland Cavaliers, 32-21 (+1)

10. Toronto Raptors, 32-22 (-4)

The Thunder continue to show vulnerabilities, especially now that reigning Most Valuable Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is set to miss time. Oklahoma City has lost five of its last eight games, including the last two without Gilgeous-Alexander. The Knicks have posted massive victories against the Raptors, Lakers, Nuggets and Celtics over the last week, so they move up, but a loss against Detroit shows why the Pistons remain at the top.

And the Cavaliers, with their fascinating trade for James Harden, now have to back up their decision to go all-in on this build; the Cavs have won eight of their last nine, though the competition hasn’t necessarily been that impressive.

NBA Week 16 power rankings: Nos. 11-20

11. Minnesota Timberwolves, 32-22 (+1)

12. Phoenix Suns, 31-22 (+1)

13. Philadelphia 76ers, 30-22 (+1)

14. Golden State Warriors, 28-25 (-3)

15. Orlando Magic, 27-24 (+4)

16. Los Angeles Clippers, 25-27 (+2)

17. Miami Heat, 28-26 (-2)

18. Charlotte Hornets, 25-28 (+4)

19. Atlanta Hawks, 26-28 (+1)

20. Portland Trail Blazers, 25-28 (-3)

The Timberwolves have lost three of their last four, but they move up a spot mostly because the teams below them haven’t necessarily capitalized. Still, defense is a massive concern, as Minnesota ranks 29th in defensive rating (125.5) over its last four games.

The middle of the Eastern Conference is seemingly a group of teams — the Magic, Heat and Hawks — rotating in and out. But it’s the hottest team in the NBA, the Charlotte Hornets, who have won nine consecutive games, who are big risers. Charlotte ranks first in offensive rating (120.8) and second in net rating (13.2) over the last nine games.

NBA Week 16 power rankings: Nos. 21-30

21. Chicago Bulls, 24-29 (-5)

22. Milwaukee Bucks, 21-29 (+2)

23. Memphis Grizzlies, 20-31 (—)

24. Dallas Mavericks, 19-33 (-3)

25. Utah Jazz, 16-37 (—)

26. New Orleans Pelicans, 14-40 (—)

27. Brooklyn Nets, 14-37 (—)

28.  Washington Wizards, 14-38 (+2)

29. Indiana Pacers, 13-40 (-1)

30. Sacramento Kings, 12-42 (-1)

The Mavericks have gotten excellent performances from Cooper Flagg, but the trade of Anthony Davis signals that rebuild is fully in action. The Bucks got a big win by staying patient in the trading deadline, and the addition of Cam Thomas should bolster scoring. But can the Bucks make a tangible push for the playoffs once Giannis Antetokounmpo returns?

And the poor Kings are in absolute free fall, losers of 12 consecutive games. They struggle to defend, made a head-scratching move before the deadline and simply don’t have a tangible direction for their future.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA power rankings: Pistons remain in top spot as Knicks make jump

by Editor