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Mitchell Marsh (Photo by Josh Chadwick/Getty Images) Mitchell Marsh is likely ending his first-class cricket career with Western Australia, raising questions about his Test future, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. The 34-year-old informed his WA teammates after Sunday’s Sheffield Shield match against Victoria about his plans to step away from state-level red-ball cricket. While he plans to officially retire at the season’s end, he is not expected to play any more first-class matches for WA.

Tom Kohler-Cadmore: ‘If I Middle It, Itâ€s probably a six!†| Power-Hitting Mindset Explained

Marsh has played nine Sheffield Shield matches for his state since 2019. In his recent Melbourne game, where he was considered for the Ashes, he scored just 9 and 4. The all-rounder, who started his WA career against NSW in 2009, has indicated to teammates he remains open to Test cricket if selected.His potential Test selection without Shield cricket participation presents challenges. Australia has no remaining Shield fixtures this year, and Marsh will be occupied with the national T20 team before the T20 World Cup when domestic red-ball cricket resumes.”We would be comfortable picking someone, and if you want to put a name to it, Mitch (Mitchell) Marsh, out of white-ball cricket if we felt like that was going to benefit the Test team,” Australia coach Andrew McDonald said in October, as quoted from The Sydney Morning Herald.”He’s the captain of the white-ball team. It’s very hard for him to vacate and balance out Test preparation, if he was to be in the window for that,” McDonald added. “We still haven’t given up on Mitch Marsh’s Test career.”Marsh, who has faced multiple injuries, seems to be accepting that his Test career might be over. Since his 2014 debut, he has played 46 Tests, with his last appearance against India in Melbourne in 2024. Beau Webster replaced him for the Sydney Test this year.His last red-ball cricket experience was during the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he managed only one double-digit score of 47. This followed his successful 2023 Ashes comeback featuring a memorable century. However, 2025 proved difficult with 283 runs in 15 innings, averaging 18.60 across nine Tests.His overall Test career includes 2,083 runs in 80 innings at 28.53, with three centuries and nine fifties. His highest score is 181, along with 51 wickets at 40.41. His unbeaten 118 at Headingley in the 2023 Ashes remains his career highlight.Australia’s next Test match after this summer’s Ashes will be against Bangladesh in August next year.In his first-class career spanning 122 matches, Marsh has scored 6,415 runs, including 13 hundreds and 29 fifties, while taking 171 wickets.

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Tawanda Maswanhise has been an absolute stand out in a squad that is delivering. Shortly, he’ll head off to the African Cup of Nations with Zimbabwe and will no doubt be missed.

He has scored eight Premiership goals, around a third of Motherwell’s league return coming into the Livingston game. He’d scored in all of their previous three wins.

However, they are far from a one-man band. Three different scorers against Livingston.

Elliot Watt has been a shining light and after returning to the starting line up after he was rested midweek, he delivered a superb opener, without hesitation, finding the corner from distance.

Calum Ward in goal can’t take all the credit for clean sheets but, after a rocky start to the season, he has come through that strongly as do they back line in front of him. He made one excellent save just after half-time to maintain their lead at just 1-0 up.

What is striking is the collective seem all on the same page. There is clarity of purpose. Connection in key areas. Confidence to make decisions quickly and make the right ones.

“As a coach he trusts the players he’s working with,” said former Motherwell captain Stephen Craigan said.

“The system they have, the set-up, irrespective of who comes into the team, they know their role.

“In the early part of the season we were slightly critical of them because a lot of the time it was possession without purpose. They lacked a cutting edge. The game management without the ball wasn’t great. That left them exposed and open.

“They’ve eradicated all of that. Irrespective of who they play against nothing changes. They look so comfortable in games.”

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We are about a quarter of the way through the NBAâ€s regular season and itâ€s time to check back in on the rookies. This is where things get interesting from an evaluation standpoint. If the start of the season is surrounded by hope and optimism, this portion of the program brings a measure of reality.

Fit, opportunity and context will rule the day with young players, but now we can see how the league has adjusted to the rookies, and how the rookies are reacting to how the league has adjusted to them.

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Scouting reports have been updated. What are these rookies being asked to do on a nightly basis? Is the game slowing down for them? Are opponents treating them differently? Letâ€s take a look at the top 10 rookies.

1. Kon Knueppel, Hornets

High-level, consistent production is not always the hallmark of a rookie campaign, but that is exactly what has made Knueppelâ€s start stand out. Knueppel is the first player in NBA history to make 50 3-pointers in his first 15 career games, and the first Hornets rookie to score 20 points in at least 10 of his first 20 career games. The shot-making speaks for itself, but heâ€s leveraging those skills to open up drives.

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In dribble handoffs or pick-and-roll, a quick peek at the rim keeps defenders off balance. His confidence continues to grow as he looks to initiate contact when he turns the corner. Whether on-ball or off-ball, he works to come off screens tight to open up space to attack. Itâ€s been fun to watch Knueppel battle as a screener, setting up flat angles to slip into space with defenses working to rotate and take it away.

2. Cooper Flagg, Mavericks

Growth is the name of the game for Flagg, who has taken some of the early-season struggles and turned things around for the better. The 18-year-old, who is fourth in the NBA in clutch points (52 points on 13-of-27 shooting from the field), has found increased comfort and confidence over the past month.

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In November, 26.1% of Flaggâ€s field-goal attempts came in the restricted area (where he shot 75.4%). Heâ€s working to put his head down and get to his spots, and showing improved patience to wait on screens and set his defender up. And if the defense cuts him off on those drives, heâ€s working to spin, hit and finish. Dallas has him attacking more mismatches as the season progresses. The more help he draws on those drives, the more he can showcase his passing ability. That aggression will enhance how Dallas can use Flagg in different ways offensively.

3. Cedric Coward, Grizzlies

The blistering 3-point shooting that Coward displayed to start the season has slowed (30.7% from 3 in November), but the confidence and impact have remained high. Coward has played his way into the starting lineup, and his versatility on and off the ball has helped the teamâ€s growth.

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The nature of Memphis†offensive flow has led to more opportunities for Coward to attack in pick-and-roll or handoffs. While he can get to his spot in the midrange, Iâ€m intrigued to watch his mindset on drives. He has the size and length, but it feels like he could be even more physical when he gets deeper in the paint. His passing ability on drives has stood out, though, as he finds a way to make late passes when he engages the defense in space.

4. VJ Edgecombe, 76ers

The scoring from Edgecombe has gone down. It could be that more teams are working to take his shot away. It could be the returns of Paul George and Jared McCain. It could be his own return from injury. Or it may just be the fact that his 3-point shot is not falling at the same clip. Whatever the case, that should all balance itself out, and itâ€s clear he remains a key piece for this Sixers team.

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One positive is heâ€s still willing to let it fly from deep. He just has to remember that it was the blend of shot-making and drives that led to the hot start (10.6 drives per game in October, 6.4 drives per game in November).

5. Derik Queen, Pelicans

Since James Borrego took over as interim coach, the Pelicans have been more than willing to play through Queen, who has showcased his unique versatility during this stretch. Allowing him to operate at the top of the key highlights his real strength: passing. If you have not seen Queenâ€s passing, he will quickly rise on your “that boy nice†rankings. And when defenses work to take away cutters, heâ€s not afraid to attack 1v1 and drive, either.

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While it looks like you can pressure him on the perimeter, he is physical, understands angles and can turn the corner. He also has good footwork, with the ability to spin and finish if you cut him off. One area of opportunity comes on the defensive end, where he needs to do his work early. That will move him toward making multiple efforts and avoid fouling.

6. Jeremiah Fears, Pelicans

When it comes to rookies, Fears has the longest streak of scoring 10+ points (19 games). He may also unofficially lead all rookies in getting in the face of anyone (looking at you Luka DonÄić and Jimmy Butler). The lightning speed that Fears operates with on the court speaks for itself, but you can see how the Pelicans have embraced it. Fears has used quick throw-aheads or outlets off made baskets as an opportunity to attack before defenses are set. And his tremendous burst in the half-court works to manipulate defenders.

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What has impressed me the most is his consistent physicality. He launches himself into defenders in the paint. And to add to the “Zero Miedo†bucket, Fears switching onto Julius Randle and outright guarding Anthony Edwards this past week was fun.

7. Dylan Harper, Spurs

Harperâ€s return to the lineup comes with a minutes restriction to ease him back in, but it also comes with opportunity as the Spurs await the return of Victor Wembanyama. My favorite rookie fun fact is that the Spurs are 9-1 this season when Harper plays 15 or more minutes (have to use it while I can).

Harperâ€s poise and composure continue to shine. If defenses give him space, heâ€s determined to take whatâ€s given. As a patient driver and shifty ball-handler, he gets to his spots without needing to use outright speed. He also rejects in pick-and-roll to get defenses off-balance, employing a steady pace to survey the floor. Defenders are unsure if heâ€s looking to turn the corner or setting up to get a midrange shot. Iâ€m intrigued to see how the in-between game grows and how he handles more teams looking to pressure him.

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8. Ryan Kalkbrenner, Hornets

As of this writing, Kalkbrenner is the only player in the NBA to have four or more blocks and four or more steals in a single game. His defense continues to stand out, as heâ€s showcasing a mix of communication and rim protection on a nightly basis.

Kalkbrenner has found his way as a screener, too, making sure to get contact and rolling to the rim. While heâ€s not the fastest roller, he knows how to put himself in position to get lobs or passes around the dunker spot. If he can continue to improve on both ends, the Hornets canâ€t help but be pleased with their young core.

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9. Ace Bailey, Jazz

Since entering the starting lineup, Bailey is shooting 52.6% from the field, 40.3% from 3 and showcasing the scoring ability many believed in coming into this season. The movement of the Jazzâ€s offense allows Bailey the opportunity to score in a more structured fashion. Wide pindowns let him get to his pull-up jump shot with ease.

Instead of the dribbles many imagined, there is a mix of pass-and-cut action to get him downhill.  Drive-and-kicks from others also open up cleaner 3-point looks. The more he can be involved in those types of quick actions, the better for Utah and Baileyâ€s overall growth.

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10. Ryan Nembhard, Mavericks

Nembhard is the first undrafted rookie in NBA history to score 25 points and have 10 or more assists with zero turnovers. Heâ€s the first undrafted rookie with back-to-back 15+ point, 10-assist games. And his presence has helped to steady the ship for the Mavericks.

The rookie point guard consistently gets the ball where it needs to be, letâ€s the game come to him and does not force plays. He probes the defense while changing speeds, but his floor vision is what opens things up. If you show help, the ball is going to the open man.

Donâ€t let the playmaking fool you, either. The scoring mindset is there, and heâ€s found a comfort shooting versus drop defenses early. If you donâ€t believe me, find the film putting him side-by-side with Andrew Nembhard buckets. Itâ€s uncanny and you wonâ€t be able to unsee it.

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Caleb Malhotra believes his hockey IQ is the biggest strength of his game.

That trait was very much on display in the CHL USA Prospects Challenge this week.

Team CHL’s top centre and captain was a play-driver throughout the two-game series showcasing 2026 NHL Draft prospects. Malhotra was rewarded for his efforts when he scored a short-handed, breakaway goal in Wednesday’s series-tying 4-3 win in Lethbridge, Alta.

The Brantford Bulldogs forward gobbled up a clearing attempt that bounced off USA defenceman AJ Francisco before speeding past him and eventually going to his backhand for a highlight-reel goal that started Team CHL’s comeback from a 3-1 deficit. The USA went on to win the series with a goal in three-on-three super overtime.

“Just being able (to be effective) on both sides of the puck, seeing plays being able to be made and being able to shut down plays,” Malhotra said in a telephone interview before the series when asked to describe the best part of his game. “Knowing what situations I can try to cheat … on a bounce or which situations I’ve got to stay behind the puck — can’t let anything get by me. I think that’s probably my best asset.”

While Team CHL’s play wasn’t consistent enough against a United States National Development Program under-18 team with far fewer first-round prospects, the six-foot-two Malhotra certainly was one of the standouts. He also picked up a nice assist on a goal by Chase Reid in the opener on Tuesday in Calgary.

Sportsnet’s Sam Cosentino had Malhotra 13th in his November draft rankings, six spots below where his dad Manny was picked in the 1998 draft by the New York Rangers. Caleb was 28th in Cosentino’s October list.

“I’ve got a number I think everybody has a number (they’re aiming for) in their head. I’m going to keep that (close) to my chest,” Malhotra, 17, said.

Malhotra is the same kind of two-way centre as his dad was during a 991-game NHL playing career.

Manny now coaches the AHL’s Abbotsford Canucks, winning the Calder Cup last season. But he still finds plenty of time to watch his son play hockey halfway across the country thanks to modern technology.

“If he can’t watch (the games) live, he watches them all back,” Caleb said. “He looks over my shifts. He’s always sending me clips. I love it. It’s really good. It’s not even always about hockey stuff, it’s sometimes about habits. During the whistle, he hates when I chew my mouthguard so he always sends me pictures of that. ‘Just keep it in your mouth, let it do its job (Manny says)’. He just hates it when out of my mouth. It’s really cool. He’s always paid attention really close.”

Caleb’s mother, Joann, too, is a great athletic influence, being a former soccer star at the University of Victoria. You also might know Joann’s brother — a basketball player named Steve Nash.

Caleb’s parents have been a huge help throughout the draft process.

“Just trying to make sure this year to block out all the noise. I think everyone gets a taste in their junior draft year. Then it’s a whole new level here. Even the good noise, as an A-rated prospect and all the rankings even if they’re good, you can’t let it get to your head. That’s what my parents, my mom and dad, always preach …. being humble. Even when someone’s praising you, not allowing it to pump your tires too much. Just take it with a grain of salt, all the good, all the bad.”

Caleb was seven when his dad played his final game in the NHL in 2015, but he had a close-up view of the best league in the world when Manny worked as an assistant coach with the Vancouver Canucks from 2018-20 and the Toronto Maple Leafs from 2020-24.

“He’s the reason I started playing hockey, the reason I fell in love with the game,” Caleb said. “I’ve learned so much from him, just watching him. Even as a coach, he goes and works out before he gets to the rink every day. Before he starts his meetings and stuff, he’s working out, He doesn’t stop, he’s kind of a machine. I’ve seen that (and realized), wow, this is what it takes.’

Malhotra signed with Brantford this off-season after opting to play last year with Chilliwack of the BCHL. The Kingston Frontenacs, who picked Malhotra in the first round of last year’s OHL Draft, traded his rights to Brantford when he didn’t report.

At the time, playing in the OHL would have prevented Malhotra from eventually playing NCAA hockey with Boston University, where he has committed. But an NCC rule change that shook the sport occurred last November, opening the door for Malhotra to come to the OHL this season.

It was pretty much a no-brainer to join a top-notch Brantford organization, owned by Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman and family. The Bulldogs, who haven’t lost in regulation this season, now have a whopping five NHL first-round picks on the roster after trading for Philadelphia Flyers prospect Jett Luchanko this week.

“A thing that doesn’t get talked about a lot is practice,” said Malhotra, who has 10 goals and 19 assists in 23 games for coach Jay McKee’s team. “You get to push each other in practice a lot. You’re going to compete against Jake O’Brien, top-10 pick (by the Seattle Kraken), Marek Vanacker, first-round pick (by the Chicago Blackhawks), Adam Benak, fourth-round pick (by the Minnesota Wild) but probably one of most skilled players I’ve ever seen.

You get to compete against those guys every day in practice and then you get to go up against (Montreal Canadiens pick) Owen Protz, (St. Louis Blues first-rounder) Adam Jiricek and (Maple Leafs first-rounder Ben Danford when you’re battling in the corner. That’s what makes you better. There’s an excitement for us and it translates on the ice. When you see someone’s not having a great night, someone else is going to step up and fill that space.”

Friday, Nov. 28: Brantford Bulldogs (18-0-4-1) at Brampton Steelheads (10-12-1-1), 7 p.m. ET

This figures to be the Bulldogs debut for Luchanko, who was acquired from the Guelph Storm. Guelph hosts the Memorial Cup next year, when the fleet-footed Luchanko hopes to be a full-time NHLer. He has a very real chance to play in this year’s Memorial Cup in Kelowna, B.C., with the Bulldogs. Expect plenty of scouts at this game in the GTA.

Friday, Nov. 28: Prince Albert Raiders (16-1-4-0) at Brandon Wheat Kings (11-10-1-0), 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT

Fun matchup between the team with the WHL’s best winning percentage and a Brandon squad featuring the league’s second-leading scorer and 2027 NHL Draft-eligible Jaxon Jacobson.

Saturday, Nov. 29: Chicoutimi Sagueneens (16-3-1-2) at Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (14-6-2-1), 4 p.m. ET

The surging Sagueneens are getting great goaltending from Raphael Precourt (1.99 goals-against average, .915 save percentage). Anaheim Ducks prospect Maxim Masse is a QMJHL top-10 scorer for Chicoutimi.

Saturday, Nov. 29: Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-9-1) at Denver Pioneers (9-4-1), 9 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. MT

Minnesota hasn’t had a great year, but did split a two-game series (both one-goal games) with Gavin McKenna and Penn State last weekend. Canadiens goaltending prospect Quentin Miller (1.64 GAA, .941 save percentage) is shining in his freshman season for fourth-ranked Denver.

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Elina Svitolina simply could not go on. Her hopeful start to the 2025 season had given way to despair as the mental and emotional strain of constant competition, travelling and stress left its mark. The 31-year-old understood that competing would only make things worse and, in September, Svitolina decided to prematurely end her season, citing burnout.

The world No 14 is not alone in feeling suffocated by her sport. This has been another year filled with incredible performances and gripping matches, but the past 11 months have also been defined by the physical and mental ailments endured by many of the sportâ€s stars.

Jack Draper, Zheng Qinwen, Holger Rune and Arthur Fils have been forced off the court owing to significant long-term injuries. Others, such as Ons Jabeur (who has subsequently announced she is pregnant), Daria Kasatkina and Svitolina, felt they had no choice but to step away because of their mental struggles. Being a prominent tennis player comes with significant privilege and wealth, but their challenges are undeniable.

Injuries are part of elite sport, where athletes continually push their bodies past their limits in pursuit of success, but many believe that tennis has not done enough to protect its athletes. In recent months, the growing list of absences from the tour has reinvigorated discussion surrounding an old topic: the sportâ€s long and punishing calendar.

This year, the off-season that began on Monday will officially last only five weeks and four days, spanning 24 November until 1 January. Not every male player was in action at the Davis Cup, the final event of the season, but even the bruising 10 and a half month season is longer than most other sports†campaigns.

Complaints about the schedule date back decades and there have been some attempts to tackle the issue over the years. However, fresh ideas do not tend to last long in a fractured sport held together by seven official bodies – the menâ€s Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), the Womenâ€s Tennis Association (WTA), the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. Every organisation fiercely protects its own interests, which do not necessarily align with the players or each another.

Zheng Qinwen is one of the players to have been forced off the court owing to significant long-term injuries. Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

In the meantime, the schedule has actually become even more restrictive in a variety of ways. Many top players contend that the extended 12-day ATP and WTA 1000 events are further wearing them down. Attempts to incentivise more frequent competition through financial and ranking points penalties is also a source of consternation.

A lucrative 10th ATP Masters 1000 event in Saudi Arabia will be added to the calendar as early as 2028. Not only is the season long, it is incredibly congested. The picture is also complicated by how the interests of players differ – lower-ranked competitors who lose earlier and play fewer matches each week and earn less money often need more playing opportunities.

This is a fraught period in the sport. The Professional Tennis Players†Association, co-founded by Novak Djokovic, remains in a class action lawsuit with the ATP, WTA, ITF and grand slams, accusing them of functioning as a “cartel†by holding an unfair monopoly over the elite game.

At the same time, most of the worldâ€s top-10 players have signed letters and held meetings with representatives of the grand slam tournaments, which are so powerful that they operate according to their own rules and often without input from the players. They have been imploring the grand slams to share a greater proportion of their revenues through prize money and to actually make player benefits contributions. Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek and Draper have aired their frustrations publicly.

During the ATP Finals just over a week ago, the ATP chair, Andrea Gaudenzi, gave an illuminating press conference, addressing many of these issues. A former player himself, Gaudenzi expressed sympathy for players†complaints but he insisted that the solution was for them to schedule more intelligently. That is, to focus on the most significant tournaments and ignore the temptation to pursue appearance fees at smaller events or exhibitions.

The ATP president, Andrea Gaudenzi, presents Jannik Sinner (right) with the 2025 ATP Finals trophy. Photograph: Marco Bertorello/AFP/Getty Images

Those who complain about the grind while playing in exhibitions during off weeks are particularly vulnerable to criticism. Carlos Alcaraz was forced to withdraw from the Davis Cup owing to a hamstring injury sustained during the ATP Finals after contesting 81 official matches this year.

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In addition to his regular schedule, the Spaniard had competed in the Laver Cup, the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia and an exhibition in Puerto Rico. The world No 1 will contest at least three lucrative exhibitions in the US and South Korea before the Australian Open in January.

Alcaraz is among those players who contend that exhibitions require minimal effort for far more money than most regular tour events, making it logical for them to play in them.

Gaudenzi, whose ATP OneVision plan is behind the expansion of the ATP and WTA 1000 events, also made it clear that he has no interest in reducing the length of those events. He believes the revenue generated by the expanded Masters 1000 tournaments, particularly the far greater number of tickets on sale, plainly justifies their increase. It is certainly hypocritical to patronise players for making financially motivated scheduling decisions while maintaining an unpopular tournament format for the same reason.

Aryna Sabalenka holds ice on her head due to high temperatures at Wimbledon earlier this year. Photograph: Julian Finney/Getty Images

The sportâ€s cluttered, inefficient and broken calendar simply has not changed enough over the past three decades. Ideally, the various governing bodies would combine to tear it down and start again from scratch, making player health a priority with a more logical flow in the scheduling and timing of its events around the world.

Other problems to address include ensuring that players are as protected from extreme weather conditions and enforcing stricter controls on court speeds, balls and playing conditions.

These decisions should be made with greater input from the players, addressing legitimate concerns over their workload while still providing sufficient earning opportunities for the rank-and-file professionals. However, as long as governance of the sport remains so fragmented, nothing will change.

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Week 5 in the NBA is underway, and much like the first month, the Oklahoma City Thunder claim the top spot with the Denver Nuggets right behind. The West claims by top four spots and two new squads make my top 10 as Miami and Milwaukee get bumped!

All Championship odds are courtesy of DraftKings.

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Vaughn Dalzell‘s Week 5 NBA Power Rankings

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1. Oklahoma City Thunder (15-1)

NBA Finals odds: +185
Points Leader: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (32.0)
Rebound Leader: Isaiah Hartentstein (11.0)
Assist Leader: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (6.5)

Since the first two games of the season went to 2 OT, Oklahoma City has won by an average of 20.3 points and 10 straight games by double-digits. Their 15-1 mark has been an incredible start to the season and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a top two favorite for MVP.

After a Friday night road trip to Utah, Oklahoma City has a three-game home stand against Portland, Minnesota, and Phoenix as arguably their toughest three-game stretch since the season started.

Denver Nuggets Primary Logo

2. Denver Nuggets (11-3)

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NBA Finals odds: +500
Points Leader: Nikola Jokic (29.1)
Rebound Leader: Nikola Jokic (13.2)
Assist Leader: Nikola Jokic (11.1)

Denver was on a nasty seven-game winning streak before the Chicago Bulls on the second night of a back-to-back snapped it. The Nuggets are now 8-1 in the last nine games and rank top three overall in offensive and defensive efficiency on the year.

Nikola Jokic has triple-doubled in nine out of 14 games this season and has 30 or more points in six of his past nine contests to become the latest MVP favorite.

Los Angeles Lakers Primary Logo

3. Los Angeles Lakers (11-4)

NBA Finals odds: +1500
Points Leader: Luka Doncic (34.6)
Rebound Leader: Luka Doncic (8.8)
Assist Leader: Luka Doncic (9.0)

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The Lakers are on a three-game winning streak and 4-1 over the last five games as they welcomed LeBron James back to the mix this week. The Lakers trailed the Jazz in his return, but turned up the heat and won 140-126.

The Lakers rank 11th and 17th in offensive and defensive ratings to start the year, so LeBron can clearly assist in that department. After a road game at Utah, Los Angeles has a four-game home stand that includes a meeting with the Clippers on NBC and Peacock.

Houston Rockets Primary Logo

4. Houston Rockets (10-3)

NBA Finals odds: +850
Points Leader: Kevin Durant (25.5)
Rebound Leader: Alperen Snegun (10.4)
Assist Leader: Alperen Snegun (7.4)

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Houston is on their second five-game winning streak of the season! The Rockets are a streaky team, but showing major signs of potential with wins over Cleveland, Orlando, Portland, Washington, and Milwaukee in the past five games.

The Rockets have the NBA’s highest rated offensive efficiency and with all their length and youth, Houston is seventh on defense. We all knew Houston would be good, but all three losses have come to top 10 teams in the NBA (Thunder, Pistons, Spurs).

Cleveland Cavaliers Primary Logo

5. Cleveland Cavaliers (10-6)

NBA Finals odds: +900
Points Leader: Donovan Mitchell (30.2)
Rebound Leader: Evan Mobley (8.6)
Assist Leader: Donovan Mitchell (5.3)

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Cleveland is 7-3 to start November with wins over Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Milwaukee to name a few. The Cavaliers are eighth in offensive rating and 13th in defensive rating during that span. Cleveland is four games through a six-game home stand that has started 2-2. Nine of the next 13 games at home for Cleveland, so I expect this team to continue climbing the rankings.

Detroit Pistons Primary Logo

6. Detroit Pistons (13-2)

NBA Finals odds: +3500
Points Leader: Cade Cunningham (27.3)
Rebound Leader: Jalen Duren (11.9)
Assist Leader: Cade Cunningam (9.9)

Detroit has now won 11 straight games and continues to move up in the top 10! The Pistons won back-to-back games with no rest over the Pacers and Hawks to reach double-digits on this winning streak. During this streak, Detroit owns the third-best defensive rating and the seventh-ranked offense.

New York Knicks Primary Logo

7. New York Knicks (9-5)

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NBA Finals odds: +1600
Points Leader: Jalen Brunson (28.0)
Rebound Leader: Karl-Anthony Towns (12.8)
Assist Leader: Jalen Brunson (6.4)

The Knicks got Jalen Brunson back for Dallas and earned a much-needed 113-111 win. New York is 2-2 in the past four games and went 1-1 versus Miami without him. New York has nine wins, but only three have come against teams with winning records so far (Minnesota, Cleveland, Miami).

Minnesota Timberwolves Primary Logo

8. Minnesota Timberwolves (10-5)

NBA Finals odds: +1400
Points Leader: Anthony Edwards (25.2)
Rebound Leader: Rudy Gobert (9.9)
Assist Leader: Julius Randle (6.1)

Anthony Edwards is back and Minnesota is rolling! Since Nov. 5, when Edwards returned, Minnesota ranks sixth in offensive and defensive efficiency. The Timberwolves are 6-1 in the last seven games and 6-2 since his return. Edwards is averaging 25.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists over 32.8 minutes per game in that span.

San Antonio Spurs Primary Logo

9. San Antonio Spurs (11-4)

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NBA Finals odds: +5000
Points Leader: Victor Wembanyama (26.2)
Rebound Leader: Victor Wembanyama (12.9)
Assist Leader: Stephon Castle (7.5)

San Antonio followed up its back-to-back losses to Golden State with three straight wins all by nine or more points. Without Victor Wembanyama, this team has to be dropped a spot or two. While San Antonio is 3-0 without Wembanyama following wins over Sacramento, Memphis, and Atlanta — who are a combined 17-31.

Toronto Raptors Primary Logo

10. Toronto Raptors (10-5)

NBA Finals odds: +10000
Points Leader: Brandon Ingram (20.9)
Rebound Leader: Scottie Barnes (7.8)
Assist Leader: Immanuel Quickley (6.1)

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How did this happen? Sure, I could put the Warriors, Bucks, Suns or Trail Blazers on this list at No. 10, or maybe another team, but the Raptors have surprised with two over the Cavaliers, and 76ers each, plus the Bucks this month.

Toronto is on a five-game winning streak and is 9-1 over the last 10 games following a 1-4 start. The Raptors were being slept on, but people are awake now. With Washington, Brooklyn, Cleveland, Indiana and Charlotte one the next five games— I like the chances the Raptors keep their heater going.

Out of the Top 10

Miami Heat Primary Logo

10. Miami Heat (9-6)

NBA Finals odds: +15000
Points Leader: Norman Powell (25.4)
Rebound Leader: Kelâ€el Ware (10.0)
Assist Leader: Daivon Mitchell (7.3)

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The Miami Heat are on a two-game winning streak, but dropped two straight before that and is 6-5 over the last 11 games. The Heat split contests with the Cavaliers and Knicks over the past few weeks, so this team is still staying afloat as a 11-20 ranked squad.

Milwaukee Bucks Primary Logo

6. Milwaukee Bucks (8-8)

NBA Finals odds: +5500
Points Leader: Giannis Antetokounmpo (31.2)
Rebound Leader: Giannis Antetokounmpo (10.8)
Assist Leader: Giannis Antetokounmpo (6.8)

Is the fall off happening for Milwaukee? The bucks have dropped three consrucigve games and four of the past five. For the first time all season, Milwaukee is .500 with eight wins and eight losses. Next up is the hottest team in the NBA — the Pistons, then Portland, Miami, and New York. I don’t like it.

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New to the Top 10:

Minnesota Timberwolves Primary Logo

8. Minnesota Timberwolves (10-5)

NBA Finals odds: +1400
Points Leader: Anthony Edwards (25.2)
Rebound Leader: Rudy Gobert (9.9)
Assist Leader: Julius Randle (6.1)

The Timberwolves are 4-2 in the last six games and 6-2 since Anthony Edwards return. While the record is impressive, Minnesota has beaten Washington, Dallas, Sacramento twice, and Utah twice with losses to Denver and New York. Minnesota actually hasn’t beaten a team with a winning record yet and can with a road game at Phoenix next.

Toronto Raptors Primary Logo

10. Toronto Raptors (10-5)

NBA Finals odds: +10000
Points Leader: Brandon Ingram (20.9)
Rebound Leader: Scottie Barnes (7.8)
Assist Leader: Immanuel Quickley (6.1)

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Toronto has put together four-game and five-game winning streaks so far this season as one of the biggest surprises. The Raptors have a top 10 rated offense and in the middle of the pack for defense through 15 games. Let’s see how long this lasts!

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.

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Nov 19, 2025, 06:16 PM ET

NAPLES, Fla. — LPGA Tour commissioner Craig Kessler introduced a “flywheel” and spoke of his “Venn diagram” on Wednesday in releasing a 2026 schedule and plotting a road map for how the tour can seize on the surge in women’s sports.

The LPGA schedule has 31 official tournaments with a record prize fund of just over $128.5 million. Fourteen tournaments raised their purses, anywhere from $100,000 to $2 million.

The LPGA also has co-sanctioned a Ladies European Tour event funded by Golf Saudi. The Aramco Series at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas replaces the Match Play, and the purse goes from $2 million to $4 million. Kessler did not rule out more tournaments from the Aramco Series.

“When you start a partnership it’s important to come out of the gates strong,” Kessler said ahead of the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship. “And if you execute well, it opens up the possibility for lots of amazing things to happen. It’s no different here.”

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Kessler, the former chief operating officer at the PGA of America, has been on the job only 120 days and has brought high energy in meeting with players and sponsors and building a leadership staff around him.

His first big move was a partnership with mutual insurer FM for major upgrades to the broadcast production, leading to the first time every North American tournament will be shown live, along with a 50% increase in cameras and shot tracing technology.

“For us to finally get our shot at having live TV and for people investing in our product out here has been amazing,” Nelly Korda said. “I can’t wait to see where it’s going to go, but it all come downs to having great leadership and that’s what we really do have here at the LPGA.”

The broadcast upgrade was the first part of Kessler’s “flywheel,” which includes a schedule with a better geographic flow. The hope is that creates more fans, which in turn helps with media rights and marketing partners, leading to a stronger cash flow that gets invested back into the product.

“We’re still — say it how you want, a growth stock or a discounted stock — if I were an investor thinking of coming in as a partner of the LPGA, now is the time to do it,” he said. “We haven’t yet had our breakthrough moment. And if I as a company looking to get behind an organization as remarkable as this one had a chance to do it, now would be the time.”

With little time since he took over in the summer, the schedule looks largely the same as last year. He put the two Michigan tournaments in consecutive weeks in June that precede the KPMG Women’s PGA in Minnesota. There is an Asia swing early and late again.

The long-term plan is to build a schedule based on routing, golf courses and prize money.

“I hope the LPGA is quickly perceived as one of the best partners in all of sports,” Kessler said. “We do what we say we will do, and we’ll have to take that into account as we bring to life what we believe is the optimal schedule.”

His Venn diagram — three circles that overlap — accounts for performance, personality and marketability, and a willingness of players to promote themselves and the tour.

Kessler said he has had two player meetings in which he said they need to do their part.

“And at the end I asked, ‘Who is in?’ And virtually every hand in the room went up,” he said. “Now it’s on us to actually bring that to life.”

The LPGA is wrapping up a most unusual season in which only two players — Jeeno Thitikul and Miyuu Yamashita — have won more than once. Korda has failed to win after capturing seven titles a year ago, but even her remarkable season didn’t help the LPGA get any more traction.

There is energy and optimism, and Kessler was well aware there’s a long way to go.

“We compete in the attention economy. It’s not just against other sports,” Kessler said. “Anything that has the potential to caption a fan’s attention, we are competing against that. So it’s our job to be differentiated, to be interesting, and capture fans’ mind share in every way we possibly can.”

SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)…

To help you add context, my “Hits†are ordered from best to worst. Each review includes a historical tidbit and a final grade. With that said, letâ€s move into the high points of this weekâ€s episode, starting with the most significant moments.

HITS

FTR TAKING THE LOSS

Some might see this as an unusual choice, but in sports, even when a playoff spot is secured, upsets can still occur. Bullet Club Gold beating FTR works the same way – it gives the post-PPV Full Gear challengers credibility right out of the gate. Itâ€s also perfectly fine for heels to get their comeuppance now and then. FTR, to their credit, are excellent at playing that role when needed. They sell the story, make their opponents look sharp, and remind fans that momentum in wrestling, like in sports, isnâ€t always linear. Sometimes a well-timed loss can make the next win mean even more.

REPRESENTATION FOR THE WOMENâ€S DIVISION

AEW, like any promotion, goes through stretches where the Womenâ€s Division feels like a priority one week and an afterthought the next. But earnestly, thereâ€s been a real effort lately to make it a focus rather than an obligation. This is the second time this year the show has featured three womenâ€s matches on the card – a small but meaningful sign of consistency. The division isnâ€t fixed overnight, but giving it repeated showcase slots on Saturday nights shows progress in presentation, confidence, and planning. Itâ€s a positive trend that deserves recognition, especially considering how frequently this aspect of AEWâ€s programming has been scrutinized. Strong promos peppered throughout the show reinforced that sense of purpose, proving the division can build momentum when given the time and trust to tell stories.

TNT TITLE MATCH

Kyle Fletcher keeps proving heâ€s more than a workhorse, heâ€s a future main-event player. His TNT Title defense showed poise and precision well beyond his years. The chemistry between Ace Austin and the crowd clicked immediately, blending athletic sequences with smart pacing and just enough personality to draw them in. Fletcherâ€s timing and confidence continue to grow every week, and if AEW stays the course, he feels destined to hold the AEW World Title within the next year.

KRIS STATLANDER PROMO

The message AEW is sending with Kris Statlanderâ€s promo is loud and clear – Mercedes Monéâ€s story finally has substance behind it. For months, fans have wanted more than just “star power vs. challenger,†and now AEWâ€s giving Moné an angle that feels lived-in. Statlander grounding her challenge in pride and redemption gave the program emotional heft beyond the belt itself. Itâ€s the kind of layered storytelling fans have been asking for since All In, presentint two characters with purpose, not just placement. If AEW maintains this tone, the division will continue to earn the credibility it has been fighting for.

ATHENA PROMO

Athenaâ€s promo backstage was short, sharp, and exactly what this division has been missing – confidence with credibility behind it. Pointing out sheâ€s only been pinned five times in five years wasnâ€t arrogance; it was proof. It reminded fans that sheâ€s been quietly building one of the most protected records in AEW and ROH, and she delivered it with the kind of conviction that forces you to pay attention. There was no wasted motion or forced attitude – just a top-tier talent reminding the locker room, and the audience, that sheâ€s a threat every time she steps through the curtain. Itâ€s the kind of promo that makes future matches feel bigger the moment it ends.

THEKLA vs. HARLEY CAMERON STAND-BY MATCH

The idea of Thekla vs. Harley Cameron being presented as a stand-by match was a subtle but effective creative choice. It gave the broadcast a sense of realism — as if AEW was ready to adapt on the fly, which keeps the show feeling live and unpredictable. It also framed both wrestlers as credible enough to fill valuable TV time at a momentâ€s notice, which quietly boosts their stock. Details like this remind fans that Collision isnâ€t just a collection of booked matches, itâ€s a living broadcast where opportunity can knock for anyone ready to step up.

ARTICLE CONTINUED BELOW…

Check out the latest episode of the “All Elite Conversation Club” with Joel Dehnel and Gregg Kanner, part of the PWTorch Dailycast line-up: CLICK HERE to stream (or search “pwtorch†on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or any other iOS or Android app to subscribe free)

MISSES

NIXON NEWELL & MIRANDA ALIZE WALK OUT

As first reported by PWInsider, Nixon Newell & Miranda Alize reportedly left the arena about an hour before Collision went live after refusing the planned finish for their scheduled tag match against Tay Melo & Anna Jay. Fightful Select later added context, noting the dispute appeared to be over match length rather than the result. The pair were frustrated with being allocated only a few minutes on TV.

Walkouts this close to airtime disrupt production and overshadow what was shaping up to be a meaningful womenâ€s segment heading into Blood & Guts. In wrestling, perception is reality, and in the moment, this can create the impression of being difficult to work with, even if legitimate concerns are behind the decision. I

FINAL SCORE

FINAL THOUGHTS: This weekâ€s Collision was an over-delivery in the best way possible. From top to bottom, the show felt purposeful, balanced, and alive — probably my favorite non-C2-related episode AEW has produced to date. The wrestling delivered, the promos connected, and the Womenâ€s Division finally felt integrated rather than obligated. Fletcher continues to emerge as a breakout star, FTRâ€s loss served a real narrative purpose, and the overall pacing made the two hours fly by.

There were still a few bumps – the Newell and Alize situation is unfortunate – but the bigger picture was overwhelmingly positive. Collision struck that rare mix of match quality, storyline momentum, and presentation that made it feel like more than just “the other AEW show.”

WRESTLING HISTORY

On this day in 2005, Eddie Guerrero wrestled his final match, defeating Mr. Kennedy on Smackdown to earn a spot on Team Smackdown for that yearâ€s Survivor Series. Sadly, Eddie would never make it to the pay-per-view. Four days later, the wrestling world lost one of its most beloved and influential performers, a man whose charisma, storytelling, and passion still ripple through the industry two decades later.

PODCAST PLUG

Be sure to check out the Collision Café I host with PWTorchâ€s Amin Ajani, available exclusively to PWTorch VIP members.

Did you know you can read an ad-free, silky-smooth-loading version of this website with a PWTorch VIP Membership? Also, unlock 35+ years of archives, including nearly 2,000 PWTorch Weekly Newsletters dating back to the late 1980s, hundreds of retro radio shows from the 1990s, and two decades of podcasts, including Post-PPV Roundtable Podcasts dating back to the mid-2000s. Plus, new VIP-exclusive articles and podcasts throughout the week, fully compatible with the native Apple Podcasts app.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS ON VIP MEMBERSHIP

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The same is true of Cardiff boss Brian Barry-Murphy, who took over in the summer to reshape a Bluebirds team reeling from relegation to League One.

The Irishman has instilled an energetic, attacking style of play similar to Bellamy’s with Wales, and he has built his side around Cardiff academy products.

That has led to an influx of Cardiff players in recent Wales squads, with the latest featuring four academy graduates, including Kpakio.

“He (Barry-Murphy) is so important. He’s really changed how we’ve all thought,” Kpakio adds.

“Our mindset has been formed into something that we really cherish. You see how we play, how we press, for example, it’s so high in intensity, and he’s a big part of that, along with the other staff.

“I’d say the style of play really suits me as a player, I really like it. I’m more comfortable and confident in what I do.”

Kpakio embodies many qualities of the modern full-back: adventurous and creative, equally adept at overlapping and galloping beyond the winger in front or inverting to link play in midfield.

“I’d say I’m very positive with how I play. I overlap, people will have seen how many times we do it, how aggressive I am,” he says.

“When you’re younger, there’s a lot of players you want to look at but, playing as a right-back, I watched players like Reece James, Trent [Alexander-Arnold], [Jeremie] Frimpong, players who have that attacking nature. They’re able to show what they can do going forward as well as defending.”

In the midst of a busy period for Cardiff and Wales, Kpakio will have plenty of opportunities to show how effectively he can do both.

Given the trajectory of his young career so far, he is only going in one direction.

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The NBA gave us buzzer-beaters in Week 2, more OT games, and another season where the Oklahoma City Thunder start 7-0. Only one team dropped out of my top 10 and one team entered, but there was a ton of movement! All Championship odds are courtesy of DraftKings.

Vaughn Dalzellâ€s Week 3 NBA Power Rankings

1. Oklahoma City Thunder (7-0)

NBA Finals odds: +235
Points Leader: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (33.6)
Rebound Leader: Isaiah Hartentstein (11.4)
Assist Leader: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (5.9)

Oklahoma City became the third team ever to start a season 7-0 after winning a championship and back-to-back seasons. Without Jalen Williams, the Thunder have not skipped a beat with wins over Houston, Indiana, Atlanta, Dallas, Sacramento, Washington, and New Orleans.

Not to discredit the Thunderâ€s start, but only a few of those teams will be playoff squads, so we will have to see how good Oklahoma City is when opponents begin to find their rhythm. For now and the foreseeable future, the Thunder are the undisputed No. 1 team in the NBA.

2. Los Angeles Lakers (6-2)

NBA Finals odds: +1600
Points Leader: Luka Doncic (41.3)
Rebound Leader: Luka Doncic (11.5)
Assist Leader: Austin Reaves (9.3)

The Lakers have won four consecutive games and have played pretty much nothing but expected playoff teams through eight games. Los Angeles has played Portland and Minnesota each twice (3-1), plus Golden State (0-1), Sacramento (1-0), Memphis (1-0), and Miami (1-0).

If you would have told me that Luka Doncic will miss four games and LeBron James be out for the start of the season and the Lakers would be 6-2, I wouldnâ€t have believed you. Los Angeles ranks seventh in offensive efficiency and second in effective field goal percentage, but 18th in defensive efficiency, so the Lakers will have to clean up that end of the floor to consistently be a top-five team.

3. Milwaukee Bucks (5-2)

NBA Finals odds: +4500
Points Leader: Giannis Antetokounmpo (34.0)
Rebound Leader: Giannis Antetokounmpo (13.3)
Assist Leader: Giannis Antetokounmpo (6.8)

Milwaukee has been one of the hottest teams to start the season after most media members wrote them off this season, including me. The Bucks have shown that Myles Turner can space the floor for Giannis Antetokounmpo then Brook Lopez could with their fourth-rated offensive efficiency through seven games.

Antetokounmpo has been on a tear and leads the team in points, rebounds, and assists. Cole Anthony and Ryan Rollins have both averaged more than five assists per game and Antetokounmpo is posting a career-high in that department, so as long as they keep up this offensive flow, Milwaukee could win the East.

4. Denver Nuggets (4-2)

NBA Finals odds: +550
Points Leader: Jamal Murray (24.2)
Rebound Leader: Nikola Jokic (13.2)
Assist Leader: Nikola Jokic (11.3)

In Denverâ€s four wins, the offense has scored 133, 127, 122, and 130 points and have the sixth-rated offensive efficiency, but in the two losses, they are ranked second behind the Bucks. That is a good sign that the offense is strong. Last season was the same case with the fourth-ranked offense in losses and top-rated offense in wins.

Denver is in the middle of a four-game home stand that was kicked off with a 130-124 win over Sacramento. The Nuggets host the Heat, Warriors, and Pacers this week — all rank in the top-half of the league in defensive efficiency, so Denver will be put to the test.

5. New York Knicks (4-3)

NBA Finals odds: +1300
Points Leader: Jalen Brunson (29.0)
Rebound Leader: Karl-Anthony Towns (13.1)
Assist Leader: Jalen Brunson (5.6)

After suffering a three-game losing streak on the road to the Heat, Bucks, and Bulls — the Knicks bounced back with two dominant home victories versus the Bulls and Wizards by 12 and 17 points. New York has five straight home games on deck as apart of this seven-game home stand.

New York takes on Minnesota, Brooklyn, Memphis, Orlando, and Miami as the final five games of the home stand. Thatâ€s a schedule that could certainly move the Knicks up. I could see them go 5-2 or better during the seven-game home stand that already started 2-0.

Evaluating gap between Thunder and rest of NBA

Off Guard dives into the Thunder’s impressive 7-0 start, exploring what the gap is between them and the rest of the NBA’s best teams, explaining why SGA & Co. are focused on the bigger picture.

6. Cleveland Cavaliers (4-3)

NBA Finals odds: +700
Points Leader: Donovan Mitchell (29.5)
Rebound Leader: Evan Mobley (8.9)
Assist Leader: Lonzo Ball (5.3)

Cleveland has struggled offensively despite averaging 114.1 points per game (23rd). The Cavs come in at 26th in offensive efficacy, ahead of only the Pelicans, Pacers, Wizards, and Mavericks.

Most of that is due to bench scoring. Cleveland is second-worst in that category as they didnâ€t improve this offseason. The only addition was Lonzo Ball, who leads the team in assists per game (5.3). Defensively though, Cleveland ranks sixth in defensive efficiency to start the season, so thatâ€s been the Cavs bread and butter.

7. Golden State Warriors (4-3)

NBA Finals odds: +1300
Points Leader: Steph Curry (26.6)
Rebound Leader: Jonathan Kuminga (7.1)
Assist Leader: Draymond Green (6.1)

Golden State dropped two consecutive games, so they have to drop back on my list. Milwaukee and Indiana slowed the Warriors roll as the Bucks were without Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Pacers riding a five-game losing streak. Not exactly quality losses.

Al Horford has missed two games for Golden State, Jimmy Butler is on the latest injury report, and Deâ€Anthony Melton is still out. The last thing the Warriors can afford is injuries early in the season. Golden State is the second-oldest team in the NBA (27.53).

8. Portland Trail Blazers (4-3)

NBA Finals odds: +40000
Points Leader: Deni Avidja (24.1)
Rebound Leader: Donovan Clingan (9.1)
Assist Leader: Jrue Holiday (8.3)

There is a youth movement going on in Portland and unlike Charlotte, Brooklyn, Washington, or any of those other youthful, lively and vibrant teams — Portland is winning. Eight out of 15 Trail Blazers are 25-years-old or younger, but they come in at 17th for average age. If you take a closer look at the rotation, only Jrue Holiday, Robert Williams, and Jerami Grant are veterans. There will be growing pains, but I see the vision in Portland.

9. San Antonio Spurs (5-1)

NBA Finals odds: +4000
Points Leader: Victor Wembanyama (26.7)
Rebound Leader: Victor Wembanyama (13.7)
Assist Leader: Stephon Castle (5.3)

I might be crazy having San Antonio this high, but the Spurs are hot! The Spurs opened the season at 5-0 for the first time in franchise history, which blew my mind. San Antonio did have that streak snapped against the Suns and while the stretch has been awesome to witness, the competition has been lackluster to say the least.

The five teams that San Antonio beat, Dallas, New Orleans, Brooklyn, Toronto, and Miami are a combined 12-25 to start the season. Half the league could go at least 4-1 to start the season with that schedule, so I will hold the horses at little longer.

10. Philadelphia 76ers (5-1)

NBA Finals odds: +2500
Points Leader: Tyrese Maxey (33.7)
Rebound Leader: Andre Drummond (6.7)
Assist Leader: Tyrese Maxey (9.0)

Philadelphia was one of the biggest surprises to start the season at 5-0 before dropping their first game to Boston in the second meeting between them this year. The 76ers bounced back with a win to move to 5-1, tying the Bulls for the second-best record in the NBA, who are next on the schedule.

If Chicago wins, then I probably should have had the Bulls here, but if the 76ers win, then I guess I got this right. For me, itâ€s simple that a mixture of Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, Paul George and VJ Edgecombe are enough most nights over Chicago and a good amount of teams in the NBA.

Out of the Top 10

Los Angeles Clippers (3-3)

NBA Finals odds: +3000
Points Leader: Kawhi Leonard (23.8)
Rebound Leader: Ivica Zubac (8.6)
Assist Leader: James Harden (9.2)

The start to the Clippers season is not turning out as expected with a 3-3 record through six games and a date versus the Thunder on Peacock next. Kawhi Leonard and Bradley Beal were both ruled out in the second night of a back-to-back for that meeting with Oklahoma City, so itâ€s clear Los Angeles will be managing both players all season long for a playoff run.

The Clippers narrowly escaped New Orleans (0-6) in their last win, and lost to Miami by one point in their previous game, so this squad is trending down.

New to the Top 10:

Portland Trail Blazers (4-3)

NBA Finals odds: +40000
Points Leader: Deni Avidja (24.1)
Rebound Leader: Donovan Clingan (9.1)
Assist Leader: Jrue Holiday (8.3)

The Trail Blazers have beaten the Warriors, Lakers, Jazz, and Nuggets this season and lost to the Clippers, Lakers, and Timberwolves — so thatâ€s five potential playoff teams in seven games. Portland has proved they are ready to make a jump and be a sleeper to make the play-in tournament this year in a crowed West.

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.

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