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Best College Basketball Transfer Portal Players Still Available | Deadspin.com  Dec 6, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images   The college basketball portal window has lived up to expectations so far, as long as your expectations were pure chaos.Approximately a third of all Division-I players — what was projected to be over 3,000 players — have entered the portal.Louisville landed the top portal player, Kansas big Flory Bidunga, to anchor the elite class of transfers it is assembling.But there is still plenty of talent available in the portal, which is set to close for entries early next week.Here’s a look at the best players remaining in the portal:Milan MomcilovicRanked by On3, 247Sports and ESPN as the best transfer still available, Momcilovic is coming off an exceptional shooting season at Iowa State.In his third season with the Cyclones, the 6-foot-8 forward saw his shooting percentages jump up significantly, making 50.6% of his shots and a nation-leading 48.7% of his 3-pointers.Mind you, that perimeter performance wasn’t in a small sample size. He finished the season with 136 made threes, ranking fifth nationally with 3.7 made shots outside the arc per game.Momcilovic also entered his name in the NBA draft. But considering he’s not considered a first-round pick, it’s entirely possible he returns for his senior season at some school and immediately gives their offense a big shooting boost.John Blackwell Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images   Similar to Momcilovic, Blackwell has been a gradual bloomer in college basketball at Wisconsin.He went from 8.0 points as a freshman to 15.8 as a sophomore and, most recently, 19.1 points per game this season for the Badgers. The 6-foot-4 guard also made his impact in a number of ways with 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game, making 43% of his shots and 38.9% of his 3-pointers.With a finalist list of Alabama, Arizona, Duke, Louisville, Illinois and UCLA, that shows the caliber of teams in on Blackwell coming off his second straight strong season in Madison.Juke HarrisHarris exploded onto the scene at Wake Forest this past season.He jumped up from 6.1 points per game as a freshman to 21.4 as a sophomore, good for third-most in the ACC.Harris was only a 33.2% perimeter shooter, but made 44.4% of his total shots, showing his ability as a slasher and jumpshooter. He also led the Demon Deacons in rebounds (6.5 per game) as a 6-foot-7 guard.He’s reportedly receiving interest from a number of top teams in the portal, including defending champs Michigan, North Carolina and Tennessee.Massamba Diop  Arizona State Sun Devils center Massamba Diop (35) battles for position with Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Graham Ike (15) on Nov. 14, 2025, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.   Arizona State didn’t have a very good 2025-26 season, finishing 17-16 and seeing head coach Bobby Hurley fired after the season.But one thing the Sun Devils did have going for them was an exceptional season from freshman big Massamba Diop, who unfortunately for them and new coach Randy Bennett entered the portal after the season.The 7-foot-1 native of Senegal finished second on the team in scoring (13.6 ppg) and rebounding (5.8). He was also second in the Big 12 in blocks (2.1) behind Bidunga.A 30.8% 3-point shooter in a small sample size (8 of 26) and a 56.9% shooter from the floor, Diop showed his well-rounded ability which could make him a star on a better team next season.   #College #Basketball #Transfer #Portal #Players #Deadspin.com

Best College Basketball Transfer Portal Players Still Available | Deadspin.com
Best College Basketball Transfer Portal Players Still Available | Deadspin.com  Dec 6, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images   The college basketball portal window has lived up to expectations so far, as long as your expectations were pure chaos.Approximately a third of all Division-I players — what was projected to be over 3,000 players — have entered the portal.Louisville landed the top portal player, Kansas big Flory Bidunga, to anchor the elite class of transfers it is assembling.But there is still plenty of talent available in the portal, which is set to close for entries early next week.Here’s a look at the best players remaining in the portal:Milan MomcilovicRanked by On3, 247Sports and ESPN as the best transfer still available, Momcilovic is coming off an exceptional shooting season at Iowa State.In his third season with the Cyclones, the 6-foot-8 forward saw his shooting percentages jump up significantly, making 50.6% of his shots and a nation-leading 48.7% of his 3-pointers.Mind you, that perimeter performance wasn’t in a small sample size. He finished the season with 136 made threes, ranking fifth nationally with 3.7 made shots outside the arc per game.Momcilovic also entered his name in the NBA draft. But considering he’s not considered a first-round pick, it’s entirely possible he returns for his senior season at some school and immediately gives their offense a big shooting boost.John Blackwell Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images   Similar to Momcilovic, Blackwell has been a gradual bloomer in college basketball at Wisconsin.He went from 8.0 points as a freshman to 15.8 as a sophomore and, most recently, 19.1 points per game this season for the Badgers. The 6-foot-4 guard also made his impact in a number of ways with 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game, making 43% of his shots and 38.9% of his 3-pointers.With a finalist list of Alabama, Arizona, Duke, Louisville, Illinois and UCLA, that shows the caliber of teams in on Blackwell coming off his second straight strong season in Madison.Juke HarrisHarris exploded onto the scene at Wake Forest this past season.He jumped up from 6.1 points per game as a freshman to 21.4 as a sophomore, good for third-most in the ACC.Harris was only a 33.2% perimeter shooter, but made 44.4% of his total shots, showing his ability as a slasher and jumpshooter. He also led the Demon Deacons in rebounds (6.5 per game) as a 6-foot-7 guard.He’s reportedly receiving interest from a number of top teams in the portal, including defending champs Michigan, North Carolina and Tennessee.Massamba Diop  Arizona State Sun Devils center Massamba Diop (35) battles for position with Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Graham Ike (15) on Nov. 14, 2025, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.   Arizona State didn’t have a very good 2025-26 season, finishing 17-16 and seeing head coach Bobby Hurley fired after the season.But one thing the Sun Devils did have going for them was an exceptional season from freshman big Massamba Diop, who unfortunately for them and new coach Randy Bennett entered the portal after the season.The 7-foot-1 native of Senegal finished second on the team in scoring (13.6 ppg) and rebounding (5.8). He was also second in the Big 12 in blocks (2.1) behind Bidunga.A 30.8% 3-point shooter in a small sample size (8 of 26) and a 56.9% shooter from the floor, Diop showed his well-rounded ability which could make him a star on a better team next season.   #College #Basketball #Transfer #Portal #Players #Deadspin.comDec 6, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The college basketball portal window has lived up to expectations so far, as long as your expectations were pure chaos.

Approximately a third of all Division-I players — what was projected to be over 3,000 players — have entered the portal.

Louisville landed the top portal player, Kansas big Flory Bidunga, to anchor the elite class of transfers it is assembling.

But there is still plenty of talent available in the portal, which is set to close for entries early next week.

Here’s a look at the best players remaining in the portal:

Milan Momcilovic

Ranked by On3, 247Sports and ESPN as the best transfer still available, Momcilovic is coming off an exceptional shooting season at Iowa State.

In his third season with the Cyclones, the 6-foot-8 forward saw his shooting percentages jump up significantly, making 50.6% of his shots and a nation-leading 48.7% of his 3-pointers.

Mind you, that perimeter performance wasn’t in a small sample size. He finished the season with 136 made threes, ranking fifth nationally with 3.7 made shots outside the arc per game.

Momcilovic also entered his name in the NBA draft. But considering he’s not considered a first-round pick, it’s entirely possible he returns for his senior season at some school and immediately gives their offense a big shooting boost.

John Blackwell

Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn ImagesMar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images

Similar to Momcilovic, Blackwell has been a gradual bloomer in college basketball at Wisconsin.

He went from 8.0 points as a freshman to 15.8 as a sophomore and, most recently, 19.1 points per game this season for the Badgers. The 6-foot-4 guard also made his impact in a number of ways with 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game, making 43% of his shots and 38.9% of his 3-pointers.

With a finalist list of Alabama, Arizona, Duke, Louisville, Illinois and UCLA, that shows the caliber of teams in on Blackwell coming off his second straight strong season in Madison.

Juke Harris

Harris exploded onto the scene at Wake Forest this past season.

He jumped up from 6.1 points per game as a freshman to 21.4 as a sophomore, good for third-most in the ACC.

Harris was only a 33.2% perimeter shooter, but made 44.4% of his total shots, showing his ability as a slasher and jumpshooter. He also led the Demon Deacons in rebounds (6.5 per game) as a 6-foot-7 guard.

He’s reportedly receiving interest from a number of top teams in the portal, including defending champs Michigan, North Carolina and Tennessee.

Massamba Diop

Arizona State Sun Devils center Massamba Diop (35) battles for position with Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Graham Ike (15) on Nov. 14, 2025, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.Arizona State Sun Devils center Massamba Diop (35) battles for position with Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Graham Ike (15) on Nov. 14, 2025, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.

Arizona State didn’t have a very good 2025-26 season, finishing 17-16 and seeing head coach Bobby Hurley fired after the season.

But one thing the Sun Devils did have going for them was an exceptional season from freshman big Massamba Diop, who unfortunately for them and new coach Randy Bennett entered the portal after the season.

The 7-foot-1 native of Senegal finished second on the team in scoring (13.6 ppg) and rebounding (5.8). He was also second in the Big 12 in blocks (2.1) behind Bidunga.

A 30.8% 3-point shooter in a small sample size (8 of 26) and a 56.9% shooter from the floor, Diop showed his well-rounded ability which could make him a star on a better team next season.

#College #Basketball #Transfer #Portal #Players #Deadspin.com

Dec 6, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The college basketball portal window has lived up to expectations so far, as long as your expectations were pure chaos.

Approximately a third of all Division-I players — what was projected to be over 3,000 players — have entered the portal.

Louisville landed the top portal player, Kansas big Flory Bidunga, to anchor the elite class of transfers it is assembling.

But there is still plenty of talent available in the portal, which is set to close for entries early next week.

Here’s a look at the best players remaining in the portal:

Milan Momcilovic

Ranked by On3, 247Sports and ESPN as the best transfer still available, Momcilovic is coming off an exceptional shooting season at Iowa State.

In his third season with the Cyclones, the 6-foot-8 forward saw his shooting percentages jump up significantly, making 50.6% of his shots and a nation-leading 48.7% of his 3-pointers.

Mind you, that perimeter performance wasn’t in a small sample size. He finished the season with 136 made threes, ranking fifth nationally with 3.7 made shots outside the arc per game.

Momcilovic also entered his name in the NBA draft. But considering he’s not considered a first-round pick, it’s entirely possible he returns for his senior season at some school and immediately gives their offense a big shooting boost.

John Blackwell

Mar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn ImagesMar 19, 2026; Portland, OR, USA; Wisconsin Badgers guard John Blackwell (25) passes against the High Point Panthers during the first half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images

Similar to Momcilovic, Blackwell has been a gradual bloomer in college basketball at Wisconsin.

He went from 8.0 points as a freshman to 15.8 as a sophomore and, most recently, 19.1 points per game this season for the Badgers. The 6-foot-4 guard also made his impact in a number of ways with 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game, making 43% of his shots and 38.9% of his 3-pointers.

With a finalist list of Alabama, Arizona, Duke, Louisville, Illinois and UCLA, that shows the caliber of teams in on Blackwell coming off his second straight strong season in Madison.

Juke Harris

Harris exploded onto the scene at Wake Forest this past season.

He jumped up from 6.1 points per game as a freshman to 21.4 as a sophomore, good for third-most in the ACC.

Harris was only a 33.2% perimeter shooter, but made 44.4% of his total shots, showing his ability as a slasher and jumpshooter. He also led the Demon Deacons in rebounds (6.5 per game) as a 6-foot-7 guard.

He’s reportedly receiving interest from a number of top teams in the portal, including defending champs Michigan, North Carolina and Tennessee.

Massamba Diop

Arizona State Sun Devils center Massamba Diop (35) battles for position with Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Graham Ike (15) on Nov. 14, 2025, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.Arizona State Sun Devils center Massamba Diop (35) battles for position with Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Graham Ike (15) on Nov. 14, 2025, at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.

Arizona State didn’t have a very good 2025-26 season, finishing 17-16 and seeing head coach Bobby Hurley fired after the season.

But one thing the Sun Devils did have going for them was an exceptional season from freshman big Massamba Diop, who unfortunately for them and new coach Randy Bennett entered the portal after the season.

The 7-foot-1 native of Senegal finished second on the team in scoring (13.6 ppg) and rebounding (5.8). He was also second in the Big 12 in blocks (2.1) behind Bidunga.

A 30.8% 3-point shooter in a small sample size (8 of 26) and a 56.9% shooter from the floor, Diop showed his well-rounded ability which could make him a star on a better team next season.

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#College #Basketball #Transfer #Portal #Players #Deadspin.com

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Everton vs Liverpool Highlights, Premier League: Van Dijk’s late header helps Liverpool beat Everton 2-1 in Derby <div id="content-body-70880774" itemprop="articleBody"><p><b><i>Welcome to Sportstar’s highlights from the Premier League 2025-2026 match between Everton and Liverpool at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool on Sunday.</i></b></p><h4 class="sub_head">LINEUPS</h4><p><b>Everton:</b> Jordan Pickford, Vitalii Mykolenko, Jarrad Branthwaite, James Tarkowski, Jake O’Brien, James Garner, Idrissa Gueye, Iliman Ndiaye, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Dwight McNeil, Beto</p><p><b>Liverpool:</b> Mamardashvili, Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Isak</p><h4 class="sub_head">LIVE STREAMING INFO</h4><p><b>Where to watch the live streaming of the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool in India?</b></p><p>The live streaming of the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool will be available on the  <i>JioHotstar </i>mobile app and website.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 19, 2026</p></div> #Everton #Liverpool #Highlights #Premier #League #Van #Dijks #late #header #helps #Liverpool #beat #Everton #Derby

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Access Denied<img src="https://e3.365dm.com/26/04/1920x1080/skynews-czech-republic-hipp_7224345.jpg?20260419152533" /><br><div><head> <title>Access Denied</title> </head><body id="wp_automatic_ReadabilityBody"> You don’t have permission to access “http://news.sky.com/story/rat-poison-found-in-jars-of-baby-food-in-austria-police-say-13533756” on this server.<p> Reference #18.f78ce17.1776629356.185ad004 </p><p>https://errors.edgesuite.net/18.f78ce17.1776629356.185ad004</p> </body> </div>#Access #Denied

Tottenham Hotspur condemned on Sunday, the “vile, dehumanising racism” against defender Kevin Danso on social media after ​his error gifted Brighton & Hove Albion a late equaliser that ‌left the Premier League side in the relegation ​zone.

Brighton scored in the dying minutes ⁠after the 27-year-old Austrian national team player was muscled off the ball, enabling Georginio Rutter to make it 2-2.

Still seeking its first league win in 2026, Tottenham is in 18th place with five games remaining in the ‌season.

“Kevin Danso has been, and continues to be, ‌subject ⁠to significant and abhorrent racist abuse on ⁠social media,” Spurs said in a statement on the latest flare-up of racism that remains alarmingly common around European football.

“We have heard and ​seen vile, dehumanising racism. ‌Behaviour that is without doubt a criminal offence. It will not be tolerated,” they added.

ALSO READ | Manchester City vs Arsenal — Master and Apprentice meet again, this time in Premier League

The club said it was reporting content to London’s Metropolitan Police, other authorities and social ‌media platforms. UK police are taking an increasingly ​hard line against those found guilty of racism, with arrests and bans, but are still ⁠struggling to stamp it out.

“We will push for the strongest possible action against each and every person we identify. Kevin has our complete and unconditional support as a player and as a person. No one at this club will ever stand alone in the face of this. Nothing about form or league position can ever excuse or explain racist abuse,” ‌Spurs added.

Danso said he had seen ‌the comments directed at him on a weekend when the ​Premier League was promoting its “No Room For Racism” initiative.

“The racist abuse has no place in this ⁠game or anywhere. But it doesn’t define me, and it ⁠won’t distract me from what is important. I know who I am, what I stand for, ‌and why I play. Now it’s about staying focused, working harder, and coming back ​stronger for the next games,” he said on Instagram.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#Tottenham #Hotspur #police #action #vile #dehumanising #racism #Danso">Tottenham Hotspur wants police action over ‘vile, dehumanising’ racism against Danso  Tottenham Hotspur condemned on Sunday, the “vile, dehumanising racism” against defender Kevin Danso on social media after ​his error gifted Brighton & Hove Albion a late equaliser that ‌left the Premier League side in the relegation ​zone.Brighton scored in the dying minutes ⁠after the 27-year-old Austrian national team player was muscled off the ball, enabling Georginio Rutter to make it 2-2.Still seeking its first league win in 2026, Tottenham is in 18th place with five games remaining in the ‌season.“Kevin Danso has been, and continues to be, ‌subject ⁠to significant and abhorrent racist abuse on ⁠social media,” Spurs said in a statement on the latest flare-up of racism that remains alarmingly common around European football.“We have heard and ​seen vile, dehumanising racism. ‌Behaviour that is without doubt a criminal offence. It will not be tolerated,” they added.ALSO READ | Manchester City vs Arsenal — Master and Apprentice meet again, this time in Premier LeagueThe club said it was reporting content to London’s Metropolitan Police, other authorities and social ‌media platforms. UK police are taking an increasingly ​hard line against those found guilty of racism, with arrests and bans, but are still ⁠struggling to stamp it out.“We will push for the strongest possible action against each and every person we identify. Kevin has our complete and unconditional support as a player and as a person. No one at this club will ever stand alone in the face of this. Nothing about form or league position can ever excuse or explain racist abuse,” ‌Spurs added.Danso said he had seen ‌the comments directed at him on a weekend when the ​Premier League was promoting its “No Room For Racism” initiative.“The racist abuse has no place in this ⁠game or anywhere. But it doesn’t define me, and it ⁠won’t distract me from what is important. I know who I am, what I stand for, ‌and why I play. Now it’s about staying focused, working harder, and coming back ​stronger for the next games,” he said on        Instagram.Published on Apr 19, 2026  #Tottenham #Hotspur #police #action #vile #dehumanising #racism #Danso

Manchester City vs Arsenal — Master and Apprentice meet again, this time in Premier League

The club said it was reporting content to London’s Metropolitan Police, other authorities and social ‌media platforms. UK police are taking an increasingly ​hard line against those found guilty of racism, with arrests and bans, but are still ⁠struggling to stamp it out.

“We will push for the strongest possible action against each and every person we identify. Kevin has our complete and unconditional support as a player and as a person. No one at this club will ever stand alone in the face of this. Nothing about form or league position can ever excuse or explain racist abuse,” ‌Spurs added.

Danso said he had seen ‌the comments directed at him on a weekend when the ​Premier League was promoting its “No Room For Racism” initiative.

“The racist abuse has no place in this ⁠game or anywhere. But it doesn’t define me, and it ⁠won’t distract me from what is important. I know who I am, what I stand for, ‌and why I play. Now it’s about staying focused, working harder, and coming back ​stronger for the next games,” he said on Instagram.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#Tottenham #Hotspur #police #action #vile #dehumanising #racism #Danso">Tottenham Hotspur wants police action over ‘vile, dehumanising’ racism against Danso

Tottenham Hotspur condemned on Sunday, the “vile, dehumanising racism” against defender Kevin Danso on social media after ​his error gifted Brighton & Hove Albion a late equaliser that ‌left the Premier League side in the relegation ​zone.

Brighton scored in the dying minutes ⁠after the 27-year-old Austrian national team player was muscled off the ball, enabling Georginio Rutter to make it 2-2.

Still seeking its first league win in 2026, Tottenham is in 18th place with five games remaining in the ‌season.

“Kevin Danso has been, and continues to be, ‌subject ⁠to significant and abhorrent racist abuse on ⁠social media,” Spurs said in a statement on the latest flare-up of racism that remains alarmingly common around European football.

“We have heard and ​seen vile, dehumanising racism. ‌Behaviour that is without doubt a criminal offence. It will not be tolerated,” they added.

ALSO READ | Manchester City vs Arsenal — Master and Apprentice meet again, this time in Premier League

The club said it was reporting content to London’s Metropolitan Police, other authorities and social ‌media platforms. UK police are taking an increasingly ​hard line against those found guilty of racism, with arrests and bans, but are still ⁠struggling to stamp it out.

“We will push for the strongest possible action against each and every person we identify. Kevin has our complete and unconditional support as a player and as a person. No one at this club will ever stand alone in the face of this. Nothing about form or league position can ever excuse or explain racist abuse,” ‌Spurs added.

Danso said he had seen ‌the comments directed at him on a weekend when the ​Premier League was promoting its “No Room For Racism” initiative.

“The racist abuse has no place in this ⁠game or anywhere. But it doesn’t define me, and it ⁠won’t distract me from what is important. I know who I am, what I stand for, ‌and why I play. Now it’s about staying focused, working harder, and coming back ​stronger for the next games,” he said on Instagram.

Published on Apr 19, 2026

#Tottenham #Hotspur #police #action #vile #dehumanising #racism #Danso
Which NBA Playoffs Game 1 Loser Is Most Likely To Win Their Series? | Deadspin.com  Mar 27, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts during the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images   On Saturday, we watched all the higher seeds take care of business and start their series up 1-0. It’s way too early to overreact to these games, but I think a lot of these winners will end up moving on to the second round. Here are the teams I think have the best chance of coming back from their slow starts.Houston RocketsBefore the series, I picked the Lakers to pull off the big upset over Houston, and I still believe that’s the case; however, they’re the team I think has the best chance of turning their luck around.If the Rockets are without Kevin Durant, I have no idea where they’re generating any offense. Houston shot 38% from the field, and Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun struggled to generate any offense as primary ball handlers. On the other end, LeBron James and company did a great job of slowing the game down by running a consistently efficient offense. If Houston can get more stops and generate offense in the fastbreak, they could easily swing this series around.Atlanta Hawks Apr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images   For most of 2026, the Hawks have looked like one of the best teams in the NBA. Offensively, they had a solid outing in game one against the Knicks, but New York had one of their better shooting performances, knocking down 48% of their triples.Atlanta will need to turn New York over more, but that’s something the Knicks have done a good job of preventing all season long. If Atlanta can find a way to steal game two on the road, I think they’ll be in a great spot to steal this series. I would still take the Knicks in this series, but the Hawks didn’t seem rattled on offense, and that’s an important factor in pulling off the upset.Minnesota TimberwolvesI am fully out on this iteration of the Timberwolves. It might be dumb to fade the team that’s been to two straight Western Conference Finals, especially one with Anthony Edwards, but I hate the construction of Minnesota in 2026.The Nuggets are going to get out and run all day on Minnesota, and have more shooting than they have in most years during the Nikola Jokic era. Denver shot poorly in game one and still won by double digits. Donte DiVincenzo is the only player outside of Edwards who can provide any gravity on offense for the T-Wolves, and I don’t think that’s enough to stop the Nuggets. If Jamal Murray starts hitting jumpers, this series could be ugly.Toronto Raptors  Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images   All season long, we wondered when the Cavs would turn it on, and I think we watched them take it to another level in game one. The Cavs are finally all healthy, and we got to see a 10-deep roster that looked very comfortable playing together.RJ Barrett, Jamal Shead, and Scottie Barnes combined for 11/16 from three, and they still weren’t in this game for most of the second half. Cleveland’s rotations were at their best in this one as well, with one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden, and Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen on the floor at all times, and they provide way too much firepower for Toronto to handle. The Raptors might steal one game in Toronto, but I’d bet on this one being a sweep.   #NBA #Playoffs #Game #Loser #Win #Series #Deadspin.comMar 27, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts during the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

On Saturday, we watched all the higher seeds take care of business and start their series up 1-0. It’s way too early to overreact to these games, but I think a lot of these winners will end up moving on to the second round. Here are the teams I think have the best chance of coming back from their slow starts.

Houston Rockets
Before the series, I picked the Lakers to pull off the big upset over Houston, and I still believe that’s the case; however, they’re the team I think has the best chance of turning their luck around.

If the Rockets are without Kevin Durant, I have no idea where they’re generating any offense. Houston shot 38% from the field, and Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun struggled to generate any offense as primary ball handlers. On the other end, LeBron James and company did a great job of slowing the game down by running a consistently efficient offense. If Houston can get more stops and generate offense in the fastbreak, they could easily swing this series around.

Atlanta Hawks

Apr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesApr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

For most of 2026, the Hawks have looked like one of the best teams in the NBA. Offensively, they had a solid outing in game one against the Knicks, but New York had one of their better shooting performances, knocking down 48% of their triples.

Atlanta will need to turn New York over more, but that’s something the Knicks have done a good job of preventing all season long. If Atlanta can find a way to steal game two on the road, I think they’ll be in a great spot to steal this series. I would still take the Knicks in this series, but the Hawks didn’t seem rattled on offense, and that’s an important factor in pulling off the upset.

Minnesota Timberwolves
I am fully out on this iteration of the Timberwolves. 

It might be dumb to fade the team that’s been to two straight Western Conference Finals, especially one with Anthony Edwards, but I hate the construction of Minnesota in 2026.

The Nuggets are going to get out and run all day on Minnesota, and have more shooting than they have in most years during the Nikola Jokic era. Denver shot poorly in game one and still won by double digits. Donte DiVincenzo is the only player outside of Edwards who can provide any gravity on offense for the T-Wolves, and I don’t think that’s enough to stop the Nuggets. If Jamal Murray starts hitting jumpers, this series could be ugly.

Toronto Raptors

Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesApr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

All season long, we wondered when the Cavs would turn it on, and I think we watched them take it to another level in game one. The Cavs are finally all healthy, and we got to see a 10-deep roster that looked very comfortable playing together.

RJ Barrett, Jamal Shead, and Scottie Barnes combined for 11/16 from three, and they still weren’t in this game for most of the second half. Cleveland’s rotations were at their best in this one as well, with one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden, and Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen on the floor at all times, and they provide way too much firepower for Toronto to handle. The Raptors might steal one game in Toronto, but I’d bet on this one being a sweep.

#NBA #Playoffs #Game #Loser #Win #Series #Deadspin.com">Which NBA Playoffs Game 1 Loser Is Most Likely To Win Their Series? | Deadspin.com  Mar 27, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts during the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images   On Saturday, we watched all the higher seeds take care of business and start their series up 1-0. It’s way too early to overreact to these games, but I think a lot of these winners will end up moving on to the second round. Here are the teams I think have the best chance of coming back from their slow starts.Houston RocketsBefore the series, I picked the Lakers to pull off the big upset over Houston, and I still believe that’s the case; however, they’re the team I think has the best chance of turning their luck around.If the Rockets are without Kevin Durant, I have no idea where they’re generating any offense. Houston shot 38% from the field, and Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun struggled to generate any offense as primary ball handlers. On the other end, LeBron James and company did a great job of slowing the game down by running a consistently efficient offense. If Houston can get more stops and generate offense in the fastbreak, they could easily swing this series around.Atlanta Hawks Apr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images   For most of 2026, the Hawks have looked like one of the best teams in the NBA. Offensively, they had a solid outing in game one against the Knicks, but New York had one of their better shooting performances, knocking down 48% of their triples.Atlanta will need to turn New York over more, but that’s something the Knicks have done a good job of preventing all season long. If Atlanta can find a way to steal game two on the road, I think they’ll be in a great spot to steal this series. I would still take the Knicks in this series, but the Hawks didn’t seem rattled on offense, and that’s an important factor in pulling off the upset.Minnesota TimberwolvesI am fully out on this iteration of the Timberwolves. It might be dumb to fade the team that’s been to two straight Western Conference Finals, especially one with Anthony Edwards, but I hate the construction of Minnesota in 2026.The Nuggets are going to get out and run all day on Minnesota, and have more shooting than they have in most years during the Nikola Jokic era. Denver shot poorly in game one and still won by double digits. Donte DiVincenzo is the only player outside of Edwards who can provide any gravity on offense for the T-Wolves, and I don’t think that’s enough to stop the Nuggets. If Jamal Murray starts hitting jumpers, this series could be ugly.Toronto Raptors  Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images   All season long, we wondered when the Cavs would turn it on, and I think we watched them take it to another level in game one. The Cavs are finally all healthy, and we got to see a 10-deep roster that looked very comfortable playing together.RJ Barrett, Jamal Shead, and Scottie Barnes combined for 11/16 from three, and they still weren’t in this game for most of the second half. Cleveland’s rotations were at their best in this one as well, with one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden, and Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen on the floor at all times, and they provide way too much firepower for Toronto to handle. The Raptors might steal one game in Toronto, but I’d bet on this one being a sweep.   #NBA #Playoffs #Game #Loser #Win #Series #Deadspin.com

without Kevin Durant, I have no idea where they’re generating any offense. Houston shot 38% from the field, and Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun struggled to generate any offense as primary ball handlers. On the other end, LeBron James and company did a great job of slowing the game down by running a consistently efficient offense. If Houston can get more stops and generate offense in the fastbreak, they could easily swing this series around.

Atlanta Hawks

Apr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesApr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

For most of 2026, the Hawks have looked like one of the best teams in the NBA. Offensively, they had a solid outing in game one against the Knicks, but New York had one of their better shooting performances, knocking down 48% of their triples.

Atlanta will need to turn New York over more, but that’s something the Knicks have done a good job of preventing all season long. If Atlanta can find a way to steal game two on the road, I think they’ll be in a great spot to steal this series. I would still take the Knicks in this series, but the Hawks didn’t seem rattled on offense, and that’s an important factor in pulling off the upset.

Minnesota Timberwolves
I am fully out on this iteration of the Timberwolves. 

It might be dumb to fade the team that’s been to two straight Western Conference Finals, especially one with Anthony Edwards, but I hate the construction of Minnesota in 2026.

The Nuggets are going to get out and run all day on Minnesota, and have more shooting than they have in most years during the Nikola Jokic era. Denver shot poorly in game one and still won by double digits. Donte DiVincenzo is the only player outside of Edwards who can provide any gravity on offense for the T-Wolves, and I don’t think that’s enough to stop the Nuggets. If Jamal Murray starts hitting jumpers, this series could be ugly.

Toronto Raptors

Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesApr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

All season long, we wondered when the Cavs would turn it on, and I think we watched them take it to another level in game one. The Cavs are finally all healthy, and we got to see a 10-deep roster that looked very comfortable playing together.

RJ Barrett, Jamal Shead, and Scottie Barnes combined for 11/16 from three, and they still weren’t in this game for most of the second half. Cleveland’s rotations were at their best in this one as well, with one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden, and Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen on the floor at all times, and they provide way too much firepower for Toronto to handle. The Raptors might steal one game in Toronto, but I’d bet on this one being a sweep.

#NBA #Playoffs #Game #Loser #Win #Series #Deadspin.com">Which NBA Playoffs Game 1 Loser Is Most Likely To Win Their Series? | Deadspin.com
Which NBA Playoffs Game 1 Loser Is Most Likely To Win Their Series? | Deadspin.com  Mar 27, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts during the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images   On Saturday, we watched all the higher seeds take care of business and start their series up 1-0. It’s way too early to overreact to these games, but I think a lot of these winners will end up moving on to the second round. Here are the teams I think have the best chance of coming back from their slow starts.Houston RocketsBefore the series, I picked the Lakers to pull off the big upset over Houston, and I still believe that’s the case; however, they’re the team I think has the best chance of turning their luck around.If the Rockets are without Kevin Durant, I have no idea where they’re generating any offense. Houston shot 38% from the field, and Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun struggled to generate any offense as primary ball handlers. On the other end, LeBron James and company did a great job of slowing the game down by running a consistently efficient offense. If Houston can get more stops and generate offense in the fastbreak, they could easily swing this series around.Atlanta Hawks Apr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images   For most of 2026, the Hawks have looked like one of the best teams in the NBA. Offensively, they had a solid outing in game one against the Knicks, but New York had one of their better shooting performances, knocking down 48% of their triples.Atlanta will need to turn New York over more, but that’s something the Knicks have done a good job of preventing all season long. If Atlanta can find a way to steal game two on the road, I think they’ll be in a great spot to steal this series. I would still take the Knicks in this series, but the Hawks didn’t seem rattled on offense, and that’s an important factor in pulling off the upset.Minnesota TimberwolvesI am fully out on this iteration of the Timberwolves. It might be dumb to fade the team that’s been to two straight Western Conference Finals, especially one with Anthony Edwards, but I hate the construction of Minnesota in 2026.The Nuggets are going to get out and run all day on Minnesota, and have more shooting than they have in most years during the Nikola Jokic era. Denver shot poorly in game one and still won by double digits. Donte DiVincenzo is the only player outside of Edwards who can provide any gravity on offense for the T-Wolves, and I don’t think that’s enough to stop the Nuggets. If Jamal Murray starts hitting jumpers, this series could be ugly.Toronto Raptors  Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images   All season long, we wondered when the Cavs would turn it on, and I think we watched them take it to another level in game one. The Cavs are finally all healthy, and we got to see a 10-deep roster that looked very comfortable playing together.RJ Barrett, Jamal Shead, and Scottie Barnes combined for 11/16 from three, and they still weren’t in this game for most of the second half. Cleveland’s rotations were at their best in this one as well, with one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden, and Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen on the floor at all times, and they provide way too much firepower for Toronto to handle. The Raptors might steal one game in Toronto, but I’d bet on this one being a sweep.   #NBA #Playoffs #Game #Loser #Win #Series #Deadspin.comMar 27, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts during the second quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

On Saturday, we watched all the higher seeds take care of business and start their series up 1-0. It’s way too early to overreact to these games, but I think a lot of these winners will end up moving on to the second round. Here are the teams I think have the best chance of coming back from their slow starts.

Houston Rockets
Before the series, I picked the Lakers to pull off the big upset over Houston, and I still believe that’s the case; however, they’re the team I think has the best chance of turning their luck around.

If the Rockets are without Kevin Durant, I have no idea where they’re generating any offense. Houston shot 38% from the field, and Reed Sheppard and Alperen Sengun struggled to generate any offense as primary ball handlers. On the other end, LeBron James and company did a great job of slowing the game down by running a consistently efficient offense. If Houston can get more stops and generate offense in the fastbreak, they could easily swing this series around.

Atlanta Hawks

Apr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesApr 18, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) is guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (7) during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

For most of 2026, the Hawks have looked like one of the best teams in the NBA. Offensively, they had a solid outing in game one against the Knicks, but New York had one of their better shooting performances, knocking down 48% of their triples.

Atlanta will need to turn New York over more, but that’s something the Knicks have done a good job of preventing all season long. If Atlanta can find a way to steal game two on the road, I think they’ll be in a great spot to steal this series. I would still take the Knicks in this series, but the Hawks didn’t seem rattled on offense, and that’s an important factor in pulling off the upset.

Minnesota Timberwolves
I am fully out on this iteration of the Timberwolves. 

It might be dumb to fade the team that’s been to two straight Western Conference Finals, especially one with Anthony Edwards, but I hate the construction of Minnesota in 2026.

The Nuggets are going to get out and run all day on Minnesota, and have more shooting than they have in most years during the Nikola Jokic era. Denver shot poorly in game one and still won by double digits. Donte DiVincenzo is the only player outside of Edwards who can provide any gravity on offense for the T-Wolves, and I don’t think that’s enough to stop the Nuggets. If Jamal Murray starts hitting jumpers, this series could be ugly.

Toronto Raptors

Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesApr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket against Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) during the first quarter of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

All season long, we wondered when the Cavs would turn it on, and I think we watched them take it to another level in game one. The Cavs are finally all healthy, and we got to see a 10-deep roster that looked very comfortable playing together.

RJ Barrett, Jamal Shead, and Scottie Barnes combined for 11/16 from three, and they still weren’t in this game for most of the second half. Cleveland’s rotations were at their best in this one as well, with one of Donovan Mitchell or James Harden, and Evan Mobley or Jarrett Allen on the floor at all times, and they provide way too much firepower for Toronto to handle. The Raptors might steal one game in Toronto, but I’d bet on this one being a sweep.

#NBA #Playoffs #Game #Loser #Win #Series #Deadspin.com

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