Latest Basketball News
Lakers Lead Pelicans in Live NBA Action on March 4
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing the New Orleans Pelicans in a live NBA game on March 4, 2026, with Luka Doncic leading the Lakers at 24.2 PPG and LeBron James contributing significantly, including a key three-pointer. Zion Williamson is active for the Pelicans despite past injury concerns, while the Lakers hold leads up to 12 points with contributions from DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart.
Kawhi Leonard Excels as Clippers Integrate Darius Garland
Kawhi Leonard shines for the Clippers after trading James Harden for Darius Garland, who debuted on March 2 off the bench, scoring 5 points with 3 turnovers in 11 minutes. Coach Lue is easing Garland in to build rhythm alongside Leonard as Clippers fight for playoffs, sitting 9th in the West.
Kon Knueppel Wins Eastern Rookie of the Month, Threatens Flagg
Charlotte Hornets' Kon Knueppel earned Kia NBA Eastern Rookie of the Month for February, averaging 21.5 PPG on 50% FG, overtaking Dallas Mavericks' injured Cooper Flagg as FanDuel ROY favorite at -170. Flagg, sidelined by midfoot sprain, averages 20.4 PPG in 49 games.
Dylan Harper Named Western Rookie of the Month
San Antonio Spurs' Dylan Harper won Western Conference Rookie of the Month for February, averaging 12.5 PPG and 4.9 APG on 55.4% FG, beating out Mavericks' Cooper Flagg. This shifts the ROY race amid Flagg's injury absence.
Celtics Rule Out Jayson Tatum for March 4 Game
Boston Celtics' Jayson Tatum will not return from his Achilles injury for the March 4 matchup against the Charlotte Hornets amid growing speculation. His absence continues to impact the team's lineup.
Lakers vs Pelicans Injury Report and Key Stats
Ahead of the March 3-4 series, Lakers' Doncic (24.2 PPG, 6.8 APG) and James (19.4 PPG) lead, while Pelicans' Saddiq Bey (21.1 PPG) steps up with Zion Williamson questionable post-injury at 19.3 PPG average.
Hawks Eye Franchise-Changing 2026 Draft Lottery Picks
Atlanta Hawks, at 31-31, prioritize the 2026 NBA Draft lottery for elite talents like Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, AJ Dybantsa, holding picks from Pelicans/Bucks, Cavaliers, and Celtics. A top pick could pair with Jalen Johnson to alter franchise trajectory.
2026 NBA Mock Draft Sees Risers Like Ebuka Okorie, Amari Allen
Bleacher Report's updated 2026 mock highlights risers Ebuka Okorie (Stanford) for shotmaking and Amari Allen (Alabama, No. 23) for versatility (3.3 APG, strong defense), while Alijah Arenas falls amid development questions.
NBA Lineup Shifts: Wiggins Starts for Thunder, Martin to Bench
Oklahoma City Thunder's Aaron Wiggins starts vs Bulls on March 3; Dallas Mavericks' Caleb Martin returns to bench vs Hornets. Other notes include Will Riley's fourth start for Wizards and Goga Bitadze's second for Magic.
Injury Updates: Ivey Out, Carter Sidelined, Barnes Questionable
Chicago Bulls' Jaden Ivey (knee) misses road trip; Orlando Magic's Wendell Carter (ankle) out; Scottie Barnes questionable (ankle) for Raptors. Dean Wade ruled out for Cavaliers with ankle sprain.
Warriors Gear Up for Key March Home Games Including Clippers
Golden State Warriors face 5 home games in March 2026, with marquee matchups vs Clippers and Timberwolves, crucial for their Western Conference standing.
Kings' Rookie Nique Clifford Shows Strong Development
Sacramento Kings' first-round pick Nique Clifford averages 12.3 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 4.1 APG recently, focal point in development ahead of Suns game and draft lottery considerations.