Tipoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT
Venue: Moda Center, Portland, Oregon
TV/Streaming: KUNP / FanDuel Sports Network – SoCal (local), NBA League Pass (national)
Radio: Rip City Radio 620 AM (Trail Blazers), 710 ESPN / AM 570 (Clippers)

This critical late-season Western Conference clash pits two play-in bubble teams against each other at the Moda Center. The Clippers (currently 8th in the West) hold a slim one-game lead over the Trail Blazers (9th), making this essentially an elimination-style game for seeding and playoff positioning with just two regular-season contests remaining. Portland has home-court advantage and recent momentum at home, while Los Angeles rides a strong road winning streak entering the matchup.

Team Records and Standings Context

Los Angeles Clippers (41-39): 8th in the Western Conference, 19-21 on the road. They boast a +1.3 average scoring margin and have been competitive in tight playoff-race scenarios.

Portland Trail Blazers (40-40): 9th in the Western Conference, 22-17 at home. They sit just 2.5 games back of the play-in threshold with a near-even scoring margin, relying heavily on home performance down the stretch.

Both squads are locked in a direct battle for the No. 8 seed and the right to host a play-in game.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Los Angeles Clippers (3-2):

L 110-128 vs. Oklahoma City (4/8)

W 116-103 vs. Dallas (4/7)

W 138-109 @ Sacramento (4/5)

L 99-118 vs. San Antonio (4/2)

W (prior road win contributing to current streak)

The Clippers have shown offensive explosiveness in wins but defensive lapses in losses. They enter seeking a 5th straight road victory.

Portland Trail Blazers (3-2):

L 101-112 @ San Antonio (4/8)

L 132-137 (OT) @ Denver (4/6)

W 118-106 vs. New Orleans (4/2)

W 114-104 @ LA Clippers (3/31)

W 123-88 vs. Washington (3/29)

Portland has been streaky, with strong home wins bookending recent road struggles. They’ve shown resilience in high-scoring affairs but have dropped their last two.

Injury Report

Los Angeles Clippers:

Darius Garland (G) – Available (Toe; cleared after earlier concern)

Bradley Beal (G) – Out for Season (Hip)

Yanic Konan Niederhauser (C) – Out for Season (Foot – Lisfranc)

Isaiah Jackson (F/C) – Out (Ankle; re-evaluation April 12)

Garland’s availability is a boost to the backcourt, but the long-term absences thin depth in the frontcourt and wings.

Portland Trail Blazers:

Damian Lillard (G) – Out for Season (Achilles)

Jerami Grant (F) – Out (Calf)

Shaedon Sharpe (G) – Questionable (Calf)

Vit Krejci (G) – Questionable / Game-time decision (Calf)

Portland is already without key veterans; Sharpe and Krejci’s statuses will be monitored closely for backcourt and scoring depth.

Key Player Matchups

Kawhi Leonard / Clippers wings vs. Deni Avdija / Portland forwards: Leonard’s two-way impact remains elite when healthy; Avdija has been Portland’s leading scorer in recent games and provides length on defense.

Darius Garland (LAC) vs. Scoot Henderson (POR): Garland’s playmaking and shooting could exploit Portland’s depleted backcourt, while Henderson’s speed creates transition opportunities.

Clippers bigs (e.g., Ivica Zubac / available frontcourt) vs. Donovan Clingan / Robert Williams III (POR): Portland’s young bigs offer rim protection and rebounding, but Los Angeles’ experience could prevail in half-court sets.

Bench scoring (Clippers depth vs. Portland reserves): With multiple Portland injuries, Los Angeles’ secondary scoring (if healthy) could prove decisive in a tight contest.

The game likely hinges on Portland’s home energy versus Los Angeles’ veteran poise and road momentum.

Series History (2025-26 Season)

The teams have split the season series 2-1 in favor of the Clippers entering this matchup:

March 31, 2026: Portland 114, LA Clippers 104 (at LA)

December 26, 2025: LA Clippers 119, Portland 103 (at Portland)

October 26, 2025: LA Clippers 114, Portland 107 (at LA)

All three meetings have been competitive, with the most recent Portland win snapping a Clippers streak. Historically, the Clippers hold a slight edge in recent seasons, but Portland has owned the Moda Center in this matchup cycle.

Betting Trends

Trail Blazers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games and strong at home in close contests.

Clippers are riding a road winning streak but have been 1-1 ATS as slight underdogs recently.

Totals have gone under in several recent head-to-heads; both teams trend toward lower-scoring games when playoff implications are high.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Clippers                      227.5

Portland Trail Blazers                     – 1.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana

This late-season Eastern Conference matchup pits the play-in-contending Philadelphia 76ers against the lottery-bound Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Philadelphia is on the road looking to snap a three-game losing streak and solidify their positioning in the Eastern Conference play-in picture, while Indiana—already eliminated—continues to play out the string with a heavily depleted roster.

Injury Report

Philadelphia 76ers:

Joel Embiid (C) – Out (appendicitis/abdomen – surgery; expected return ~April 20)

Johni Broome (PF) – Out (knee – partial meniscectomy)

Cameron Payne (PG) – Out (hamstring)

Indiana Pacers:

Tyrese Haliburton (PG) – Out for season (Achilles)

Johnny Furphy (F) – Out for season (knee)

Ivica Zubac (C) – Out for season (rib)

T.J. McConnell (G) – Day-to-day / Out (hamstring)

Andrew Nembhard (G) – Day-to-day (back)

Pascal Siakam (F) – Day-to-day / Out (back)

Aaron Nesmith (F) – Day-to-day (neck)

Kobe Brown (F) – Day-to-day (back)

Ben Sheppard (G) – Day-to-day (hip)

The Pacers’ injury list is devastating and leaves them extremely thin across the board. Philadelphia is without its franchise center and some depth but still fields a far more intact and veteran roster.

Player Matchups & Probable Starters

PHI Probable Starters: Tyrese Maxey (PG), VJ Edgecombe (SG), Kelly Oubre Jr. (SF), Paul George (PF), Andre Drummond (C)

IND Probable Starters: Limited healthy bodies; heavy reliance on young/depth pieces such as Jarace Walker, Micah Potter, and available rotation players (exact lineup fluid due to multiple day-to-day statuses).

Key Matchups:

Tyrese Maxey vs. Pacers backcourt (Nembhard/McConnell if active): Maxey’s speed and scoring should overwhelm a makeshift Indiana perimeter defense.

Paul George / Andre Drummond vs. Pacers frontcourt: Philadelphia’s size and experience dominate a depleted and inexperienced Pacers interior.

Bench/Depth: The 76ers’ veteran rotation provides clear advantages in second-unit scoring and rebounding against Indiana’s youth-heavy and injury-riddled group.

Philadelphia’s superior talent and depth should control the game, especially with Indiana missing nearly all of its key rotation pieces.

Recent Team Forms

76ers (5-5 in last 10, but 1-3 in most recent stretch): Philadelphia has dropped three straight (losses to Houston, San Antonio, and Detroit) but remains efficient offensively when healthy. They’ve shown the ability to dominate weaker opponents.

Pacers (roughly 2-8 in last 10): Indiana earned a blowout win over Brooklyn on April 9 but has otherwise struggled mightily, with poor offensive execution and defensive lapses in recent outings.

Series History

Philadelphia leads the 2025-26 season series 3-0 (most recent: 135-114 win on Feb. 24 in Indianapolis; earlier wins of 113-104 and 115-105). The 76ers have taken the last several meetings overall and own a commanding historical edge. Games have typically favored the more complete roster.

Betting Trends

Philadelphia covers as large favorites at a high rate against lottery teams; totals have varied but recent PHI road games and IND home contests have produced moderate scoring.

Game Odds

Philadelphia Sixers         -15.5

Indiana Pacers                  233.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Capital One Arena, Washington, DC

This late-season Eastern Conference matchup features the Miami Heat visiting the league-worst Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. Miami is battling for play-in positioning in the East (currently 10th), while Washington has long been eliminated and is focused on the draft lottery. The Heat have dominated this season series and enter as massive favorites on the road.

Injury Report

Miami Heat:

Nikola Jovic (SF) – Out (ankle)

Dru Smith (SG) – Questionable (foot)

Terry Rozier (G) – Out (not with team / injury management)

Washington Wizards:

Jaden Hardy (G) – Questionable (back / day-to-day)

Multiple rotation pieces (including potential G-League call-ups and lingering issues with players like Anthony Gill – day-to-day lumbar, others on longer-term absences)

Miami is relatively healthy for a late-season road game but may rest or limit key veterans given the standings implications. Washington’s roster is already thin due to season-long tanking and multiple absences.

Player Matchups & Probable Starters

MIA Probable Starters:

Tyler Herro (PG), (SG – rotation dependent with Smith Q), Bam Adebayo (C), plus wings like Jaime Jaquez Jr. / Duncan Robinson / Keshad Johnson in supporting roles.

WAS Probable Starters: Bub Carrington (G), Jaden Hardy (G – if active), Bilal Coulibaly (F), Anthony Gill / Julian Reese (F/C), with young pieces like Will Riley and Sharife Cooper seeing heavy minutes.

Key Matchups:

Bam Adebayo vs. Washington’s frontcourt: Adebayo dominates the paint and glass against a rebuilding Wizards interior that ranks near the bottom league-wide in rebounding and rim protection.

Tyler Herro / Heat perimeter vs. Wizards backcourt: Miami’s spacing and 3-point volume exploit Washington’s poor defensive rating and transition defense.

Bench/Depth: Heat veterans provide stability; Wizards rely on high-upside but inconsistent youth (Carrington, Coulibaly, Riley) that has fueled blowout losses lately.

Miami’s superior talent and execution should control tempo and pace.

Recent Team Forms

Heat (mixed lately, 3-7 in last 10 overall): Miami dropped back-to-back games in Toronto (including a 114-128 loss on April 9) but remains efficient offensively (120.4 PPG, 2nd in league) despite defensive lapses. They’ve been strong against weaker opponents.

Wizards (1-9 in last 10, on an extended losing skid): Washington has been outscored badly in recent games (including losses to Chicago and Miami earlier this month) and ranks near the bottom in scoring (112.9 PPG) and defensive efficiency. Home games have offered little resistance.

Series History

Miami leads the 2025-26 season series 3-0 (most recent: 152-136 win on April 4 in Miami; earlier road win 132-101 in February). Heat have won 9 of the last 11 meetings dating back multiple seasons and hold a commanding all-time edge (103-48). Games have trended high-scoring when Washington’s youth is on the floor.

Betting Trends

Heat are strong as big road favorites; Wizards are 1-4 ATS in last 5 and have seen totals go OVER in 3 of last 5. Miami covers as favorites of 11+ at a high rate recently.

Game Odds

Miami Heat                        – 16.5

Washington Wizards      243.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Spectrum Center, Charlotte, North Carolina

This Eastern Conference matchup features the top-seeded Detroit Pistons visiting the Charlotte Hornets in the penultimate week of the regular season. With Detroit having already clinched the No. 1 seed in the East, this contest carries higher stakes for the play-in-bound Hornets as they fight for positioning.

Injury Report

Detroit Pistons:

G Kevin Huerter – Questionable (illness)

Multiple G-League/two-way players (Wendell Moore Jr., Isaac Jones, others) – Out (not traveling)

Charlotte Hornets:

G Coby White – Probable (left groin soreness)

C PJ Hall – Out for season (ankle)

Multiple G-League assignments – Out

Detroit’s starters are otherwise available, though heavy load management/rest is expected given their secured playoff positioning. Charlotte’s injury list is relatively light for key rotation pieces.

Player Matchups & Probable Starters

DET Probable Starters: Cade Cunningham (PG), (SG – TBD with Huerter Q), Ausar Thompson (SF), Tobias Harris (PF), Jalen Duren (C)

CHA Probable Starters: LaMelo Ball (PG), Brandon Miller (SG), Miles Bridges (SF), (PF – rotation dependent), (C – rotation dependent)

Key Matchups:

Cade Cunningham vs. LaMelo Ball: Two of the league’s most dynamic young point guards. Cunningham’s playmaking and size edge could exploit Charlotte’s defense, while Ball’s speed and deep range create transition opportunities.

Detroit’s frontcourt (Harris/Duren) vs. Charlotte’s athletic wings (Miller/Bridges): Detroit controls the glass and interior; Charlotte will look to stretch the floor and attack in space.

Bench/Depth: Pistons’ veteran additions provide stability, but Hornets’ home energy and recent scoring bursts (especially if White returns) could tilt second-unit battles.

Recent Team Forms

Pistons (4-1 in last 5): Detroit rolled to a 137-111 home win over Milwaukee in their finale at Little Caesars Arena, following a road loss in Orlando. They’ve been efficient offensively and stingy defensively in recent outings.

Hornets (3-2 in last 5, including a three-game win streak): Charlotte posted impressive victories over Phoenix, Indiana, and Minnesota before falling 113-102 at Boston. They’ve averaged strong offensive outputs at home lately.

Series History

Detroit leads the 2025-26 season series 2-0, with wins of 112-86 (Dec. 20 at home) and 110-104 (Feb. 9 on the road in Charlotte). The Pistons have taken 7 of the last 9 meetings overall dating back multiple seasons. Games have trended competitive but favor Detroit’s superior talent and execution.

Betting Trends

Detroit is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games and 4-1 SU recently, but the total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit’s last 6. Hornets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 as favorites and strong at home late in the season.

Game Odds

Detroit Pistons                 225.5

Charlotte Hornets            – 5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT
Venue: Golden 1 Center, Sacramento, California
TV/Streaming: NBCS-BA (Warriors local), NBCS-CA (Kings local), NBA League Pass (national)
Radio: 95.7 The Game / Sactown Sports 1140 AM (Kings), 95.7 The Game (Warriors)

This Pacific Division matchup features a Warriors team still mathematically alive for play-in positioning on the second night of a back-to-back against a Kings squad that has been eliminated from playoff contention for weeks. Golden State enters as a sizable road favorite despite injury uncertainty and fatigue.

Team Records and Standings Context

Golden State Warriors (37-43): 10th in the Western Conference, 15-24 on the road. They sit in the play-in mix but have been inconsistent away from Chase Center.

Sacramento Kings (21-59): 14th in the Western Conference (last in Pacific Division), 7-33 on the road. One of the league’s worst teams overall with a negative scoring margin.

The Warriors are fighting for every win down the stretch; the Kings are playing out the string.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Golden State Warriors (approx. 2-3 in recent stretch):
Snapped a four-game losing streak with a 110-105 home win over these same Kings on April 7 (Curry’s second game back). Followed up with a 119-103 home loss to the Lakers on April 9. The Warriors have shown flashes of competitiveness when healthy but have been hampered by injuries and a tough schedule.

Sacramento Kings (1-4 or worse recently):
Lost six of their last eight games entering this matchup, including the April 7 home loss to Golden State. The Kings have struggled mightily on both ends, particularly in transition defense and rebounding.

Injury Report

Golden State Warriors (significant absences and questionables):

Stephen Curry (G) – GTD (Knee management)

Kristaps Porzingis (C) – GTD (Knee soreness / illness)

Quinten Post (C) – Out (Foot)

Moses Moody (G) – Out (Knee / patellar tendon)

Jimmy Butler (F) – Out (Knee / ACL)

Al Horford (C) – Out (Calf / back)

Gui Santos (F) – Out (Pelvic contusion)

Will Richard (G) – GTD (Back)

Curry and Porzingis statuses are critical for Golden State’s spacing and interior presence on a back-to-back. Multiple key rotation players are already ruled out.

Sacramento Kings:

DeMar DeRozan (F/G) – Questionable (Hamstring)

Russell Westbrook (G) – Out (Foot)

Keegan Murray (F) – Out (Ankle)

DeRozan’s availability is the biggest question mark for Sacramento’s scoring punch; the Kings are already thin on talent.

Key Player Matchups

Stephen Curry (GSW, if active) vs. Sacramento backcourt (De’Aaron Fox / Killian Hayes): Curry’s gravity and off-ball movement remain elite even in limited minutes. Sacramento’s speed can harass but rarely contains him when hot.

Brandin Podziemski / Warriors wings vs. Maxime Raynaud / Kings frontcourt: Podziemski has been a bright spot for Golden State with efficient scoring and rebounding. Raynaud (Kings rookie big) has shown promise but faces a tough test against Golden State’s length.

Kristaps Porzingis (GSW, if active) vs. Domantas Sabonis / Kings bigs: Porzingis’ stretch-big ability could exploit Sacramento’s interior if he plays; without him, Golden State’s frontcourt thins considerably.

DeMar DeRozan (SAC, if active) vs. Golden State perimeter defenders: DeRozan’s mid-range game is Sacramento’s most reliable scoring option, but a questionable hamstring limits his burst.

Golden State’s superior talent (when available) gives them the edge in most individual battles.

Series History (2025-26 Season)

The teams have split recent meetings, with Golden State winning the most recent contest 110-105 on April 7 at Chase Center. Sacramento holds a slight edge in the season series earlier (1-2 entering that game), but games have generally been competitive. All-time, the Warriors lead the regular-season series significantly.

Betting Trends

Warriors are favored heavily on the road despite the back-to-back and injuries.

Kings are 3-2 ATS in their last five but have been poor straight-up.

Totals have varied; recent Warriors-Kings games have trended slightly under due to pace control.

Public money has leaned toward Golden State.

Game Odds

Golden State Warriors                   – 11.5

Sacramento Kings                            229.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
TV/Streaming: Amazon Prime Video (national), SCHN / FDSN (local Rockets), KARE 11 (local Timberwolves)
Radio: 790 AM / S: KLTN (Rockets), KFAN FM (Timberwolves)

This late-season Western Conference matchup pits two playoff-positioned teams against each other in what could have significant seeding implications. Houston enters as the hotter squad with home-court dominance, while Minnesota looks to snap a recent skid on the road.

Team Records and Standings Context

Houston Rockets (51-29): 5th in the Western Conference, 29-10 at home. They boast one of the league’s better home records and a solid +5.0 average scoring margin this season.

Minnesota Timberwolves (47-33): 6th in the Western Conference, 22-18 on the road. Their +3.3 average margin reflects a competitive but inconsistent group, especially away from Target Center.

Both teams are locked into playoff spots but are battling for higher seeding in the tightly contested West.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Houston Rockets (5-0):

W 113-102 vs. Philadelphia (4/9)

W 119-105 @ Phoenix (4/7)

W 117-116 @ Golden State (4/5)

W 140-106 vs. Utah (4/3)

W 119-113 vs. Milwaukee (4/1)

Houston is rolling with elite defense (allowing ~109.8 PPG season-long) and balanced scoring. They’ve won convincingly at home lately and shown resilience on the road.

Minnesota Timberwolves (1-4):

L 132-120 @ Orlando (4/8)

W 124-104 @ Indiana (4/7)

L 122-108 vs. Charlotte (4/5)

L 115-103 @ Philadelphia (4/3)

L 113-108 @ Detroit (4/2)

Minnesota has struggled defensively of late and is 1-4 in its last five, including blowout losses. Road woes have been pronounced, though the win at Indiana showed offensive potential.

Injury Report

Minnesota Timberwolves (significant absences possible):

Anthony Edwards (G) – GTD (Knee)

Ayo Dosunmu (G) – GTD (Calf)

Bones Hyland (G) – GTD (Hip)

Joe Ingles (F) – Out (Personal, est. return Apr 12)

Rudy Gobert (C) – Out (Rest, est. return Apr 12)

Julius Randle (F) – Questionable (Hand, per latest reports)

Gobert’s rest day is a major blow to Minnesota’s interior defense and rebounding. Edwards’ status is critical — his absence or limitation would further handicap the offense.

Houston Rockets:

Steven Adams (C) – Out for Season (Ankle)

Fred VanVleet (G) – Out (Knee, long-term)

Houston’s absences are long-term and already priced into their strong recent play. The roster depth (including Kevin Durant’s scoring punch) remains intact.

Key Player Matchups

Julius Randle (MIN) vs. Rockets frontcourt (e.g., Alperen Şengün / Jabari Smith Jr.): Randle has been Minnesota’s most consistent scorer lately (averaging 20+ PPG in recent games). Houston’s size and length could challenge him, but Randle’s playmaking creates mismatches.

Anthony Edwards (MIN, if active) vs. Houston perimeter defenders (e.g., Durant / Amen Thompson): Edwards’ explosiveness is Minnesota’s best weapon, but a questionable knee limits his burst. Durant’s length and experience provide elite on-ball defense.

Alperen Şengün (HOU) vs. Minnesota’s depleted bigs (Naz Reid / without Gobert): Şengün dominates the paint and has been a double-double machine. Without Gobert anchoring the rim, Minnesota’s interior defense is vulnerable.

Kevin Durant (HOU) vs. Minnesota wings (Jaden McDaniels / others): Durant’s mid-range game and spacing remain elite at this stage; he’s a focal point in Houston’s half-court sets.

Houston’s depth and home advantage give them the edge in most individual battles.

Series History (2025-26 Season)

The teams split their first two meetings:

March 25, 2026: Minnesota 110, Houston 108 (OT) — Timberwolves erased a 13-point deficit in overtime for a historic comeback (at Minnesota).

January 16, 2026: Houston 110, Minnesota 105 (at Houston).

All-time, Houston leads the regular-season series significantly (~86-56), but this season’s games have been close and competitive. Houston is 5-0 SU in its last five overall but the recent head-to-head shows Minnesota’s ability to steal games when healthy.

Betting Trends

Houston is 5-0 SU in its last five games and strong ATS at home (29-10 record supports cover potential).

Minnesota is 1-4 SU recently and has struggled ATS as a road underdog of this magnitude.

Totals have gone over in 4 of Houston’s last 5; Minnesota’s road games often trend higher without Gobert’s defensive presence.

Houston covers the spread in 3 of last 5; public betting leans heavily toward the Rockets (~53% on Houston).

Game Odds

Minnesota Timberwolves            224.5

Houston Rockets                              – 10.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. MT)
Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, Utah

This Southwest Division matchup serves as the final home game of the 2025-26 season for the Utah Jazz on Fan Appreciation Night at the Delta Center. Both lottery-bound teams are playing out the string with nothing but pride, draft positioning, and youth evaluation on the line. The Grizzlies arrive on the road after a brutal stretch, while the Jazz hope to snap a lengthy skid in front of what is expected to be a packed house for their 374th consecutive sellout.

Injury Report

Memphis Grizzlies:

Cedric Coward (F) – Out (back)

Cam Spencer (G) – Out (back)

Taylor Hendricks (F) – Out (thumb)

Santi Aldama (F) – Out for season (knee)

Olivier-Maxence Prosper (F) – Out (ankle)

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (G) – Out for season (finger)

GG Jackson (F) – Out (knee)

Ja Morant (G) – Out for season (elbow)

Scotty Pippen Jr. (G) – Out for season (toe)

Zach Edey (C) – Out for season (ankle)

Ty Jerome (G) – Out (ankle)

Jaylen Wells (G) – Out for season (toe)

Brandon Clarke (F) – Out for season (calf)

Javon Small (G) – Out (thigh)

Walter Clayton Jr. (G) – Questionable/Doubtful (hip/calf)

Utah Jazz:

Isaiah Collier (G) – Out (hamstring)

Keyonte George (G) – Out (hamstring/leg)

Walker Kessler (C) – Out for season (shoulder)

Lauri Markkanen (F) – Out (hip)

Jusuf Nurkic (C) – Out for season (nose)

Brice Sensabaugh (F) – Out (rest)

Kyle Filipowski (F/C) – Out (back)

Jaren Jackson Jr. (F) – Out (knee)

Elijah Harkless (G) – Questionable (hamstring)

Ace Bailey (F) – Questionable (knee)

Both rosters are decimated by season-long absences and recent injuries, leaving heavy reliance on G-League call-ups, two-way players, and unproven youth. The injury report balloons to more than 20 players across both sides, making this one of the most patchwork lineups of the season.

Player Matchups & Probable Starters

MEM Probable Starters (fluid): Patchwork group featuring available young pieces such as Javon Small (if active), Walter Clayton Jr. (if active), and rotation depth including recent standouts like Cedric Coward (when healthy).

UTA Probable Starters (fluid): Heavy minutes expected for young talent like Ace Bailey (if active), Rayan Rupert, Svi Mykhailiuk, and other call-ups around the depleted frontcourt.

Key Matchups:

Grizzlies youth (Coward/Small if active) vs. Jazz young core (Bailey/Rupert): Both sides will feature high-upside but inconsistent rookies and sophomores. Coward has been a bright spot for Memphis lately (17+ PPG in recent action), while Bailey has shown scoring bursts for Utah.

Rebounding and interior play: With multiple centers and power forwards out (Edey, Kessler, Nurkic, etc.), expect a chaotic, up-and-down game with weak rim protection on both ends.

Bench/Depth: Extremely thin rotations for both teams mean foul trouble or fatigue could decide the outcome; G-League call-ups will see extended minutes.

The game shapes up as a high-variance, offense-friendly affair due to the lack of defensive anchors.

Recent Team Forms

Grizzlies (0-6 in last 6, 1-9 in last 10): Memphis has dropped six straight and nine of its last 10, struggling mightily on offense and defense amid the injury wave.

Jazz (0-10 in last 10): Utah is mired in a 10-game losing streak, including a recent 156-137 road loss to New Orleans. Defensive breakdowns and turnovers have plagued them.

Series History

Memphis holds the season-series edge (2-1) entering tonight, with recent wins including a 123-114 victory over Utah on Feb. 20, 2026. The Grizzlies have taken several of the last head-to-head meetings overall despite the injury-plagued campaigns. Games between these clubs have often been high-scoring when rotations are thin. This is the final 2025-26 matchup.

Betting Trends

The total has gone OVER in 7 of Memphis’ last 8 games; Jazz are 0-5 SU in their last 5 and 2-3 ATS recently. Both teams rank near the bottom league-wide in efficiency, but depleted rosters often lead to inflated scoring.

Game Odds

Memphis Grizzlies          248-.5

Utah Jazz                             – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado

This Western Conference showdown is a heavyweight clash with major seeding implications in the final week of the regular season. The top-seeded Thunder visit the third-place Nuggets, who have surged into the No. 3 seed with a 10-game winning streak and are closing their home schedule strong. Oklahoma City has already locked up the No. 1 seed in the West, while Denver is fighting to avoid a tougher second-round path.

Injury Report

Oklahoma City Thunder:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (right oblique injury management) – Out

Chet Holmgren (low back spasms) – Out

Jalen Williams (right hamstring injury management) – Out

Isaiah Hartenstein (left soleus/calf injury management) – Out

Isaiah Joe (left knee soreness) – Out

Cason Wallace (left great toe soreness) – Out

Ajay Mitchell (left ankle injury management) – Out

Alex Caruso (rest) – Out

Jaylin Williams (right Achilles) – Out

Thomas Sorber (right ACL recovery) – Out

Denver Nuggets:

Nikola Jokić (right wrist) – Questionable (day-to-day)

Jamal Murray (right shoulder impingement) – Questionable (day-to-day)

Aaron Gordon (right hamstring) – Questionable (day-to-day)

Spencer Jones (right hamstring strain) – Out

Peyton Watson (right hamstring strain) – Out

Oklahoma City is extremely short-handed and in heavy load-management/rest mode with the No. 1 seed secured. Denver’s big three are all questionable but expected to be game-time decisions; the Nuggets’ depth has carried them through the recent streak regardless.

Player Matchups & Probable Starters

OKC Probable Starters (heavily depleted): Lu Dort / reserves, plus young rotation pieces and two-way call-ups (exact lineup fluid due to mass absences).

DEN Probable Starters (TBD pending big-three status): Nikola Jokić (C – if active), Jamal Murray (G – if active), Aaron Gordon (F – if active), plus supporting wings like Christian Braun and frontcourt depth.

Key Matchups:

Nuggets’ star trio (if healthy) vs. Thunder reserves: Jokić’s elite playmaking and interior dominance should overwhelm a depleted OKC frontcourt missing Holmgren and Hartenstein. Murray’s scoring and Gordon’s athleticism exploit mismatches against OKC’s young or rested perimeter.

Thunder youth movement vs. Denver’s experience: Without SGA, Jalen Williams, and Caruso, Oklahoma City relies on unproven pieces that will struggle to match Denver’s half-court execution and transition pace.

Bench/Depth: Denver’s veteran rotation and recent hot form provide a massive edge in second-unit scoring and defensive intensity.

The talent and experience gap widens dramatically if Oklahoma City rests its core.

Recent Team Forms

Thunder (7-3 in last 10, seeking 8th straight win): Oklahoma City remains dominant overall but enters this contest with heavy rest and load management after a strong season-long run.

Nuggets (10-game winning streak, 8-2 in last 10): Denver has been one of the hottest teams in the league, climbing into the No. 3 seed with elite offense and balanced play at home.

Series History

Oklahoma City leads the 2025-26 season series 3-0 (most recent: 129-126 Thunder win on March 9 in Oklahoma City; earlier wins of 127-121 OT on Feb. 27 and 121-111 on Feb. 1 in Denver). Denver has struggled to contain Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in those matchups, but tonight’s absences flip the script. This is the final regular-season meeting.

Betting Trends

Denver is strong as home favorites during winning streaks; unders have hit in several recent Nuggets contests when resting opponents are involved. Oklahoma City is poor ATS when heavily resting stars.

Game Odds

Oklahoma City Thunder                232.5

Denver Nuggets                                – 11.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026

Tipoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This late-season Eastern Conference matchup pits the lottery-bound Brooklyn Nets against a Milwaukee Bucks team that has underperformed all year but still holds a better record. Both clubs have been eliminated from playoff contention, turning this contest into a battle for pride, draft positioning, and evaluation of young talent at Fiserv Forum. The Nets are on the road for the second night of a back-to-back after a tough stretch, while the Bucks aim to close the home schedule on a positive note.

Injury Report

Brooklyn Nets:

Dennis Schröder (PG) – Out (groin)

Cam Thomas (SG) – Out for season (knee)

Ben Simmons (PG) – Out (back)

Noah Clowney (PF) – Out (ankle)

Multiple two-way/G-League call-ups filling the roster.

Milwaukee Bucks:

Giannis Antetokounmpo (PF) – Questionable (right calf tightness – limited in recent practices)

Damian Lillard (PG) – Questionable (ankle)

Khris Middleton (SF) – Out (wrist)

Pat Connaughton (SG) – Out (calf)

Milwaukee’s injury list is particularly impactful if Giannis and Lillard are limited or sit, further thinning an already inconsistent rotation. Brooklyn is extremely short-handed and reliant on youth and depth players.

Player Matchups & Probable Starters

BKN Probable Starters: Keon Johnson (SG), Ziaire Williams (SF), Nic Claxton (C), plus young pieces like Jalen Wilson (PF) and rotation guards.

MIL Probable Starters: (TBD pending Giannis/Lillard status) – Damian Lillard (PG – if active), Gary Trent Jr. (SG), plus frontcourt depth around Bobby Portis or MarJon Beauchamp.

Key Matchups:

Young Nets wings vs. Bucks perimeter: Brooklyn’s athletic group (Johnson, Williams) will try to exploit any defensive lapses, but Milwaukee’s length (even without Middleton) creates mismatches.

Nic Claxton vs. Milwaukee frontcourt: Claxton’s rim protection is one of Brooklyn’s few bright spots, but he faces a depleted Bucks interior that still features size and rebounding.

Bench/Depth: Both teams are thin, but Milwaukee’s veteran experience (Portis, Trent) gives them a slight edge in second-unit execution if the stars play.

If Giannis sits or is limited, the matchup becomes even more favorable for Brooklyn’s youth movement to compete.

Recent Team Forms

Nets (2-8 in last 10): Brooklyn has shown occasional flashes from their young core but continues to struggle with consistency and defensive effort, dropping most recent games by double digits.

Bucks (3-7 in last 10): Milwaukee has been streaky at best, with wins mixed against lottery teams but losses to stronger squads. Home games have offered slightly better results, but injuries have derailed momentum.

Series History

Milwaukee leads the 2025-26 season series 3-1 (most recent: 118-109 Bucks win on March 12 in Brooklyn). The Bucks have taken 8 of the last 10 meetings overall, with games at Fiserv Forum typically resulting in comfortable home victories when healthy. This is the final 2025-26 matchup between the teams.

Betting Trends

Milwaukee is strong as home favorites against lottery teams; totals have gone UNDER in 6 of Brooklyn’s last 9 road games. Bucks cover the spread at a solid rate when Giannis plays.

Game Odds

Brooklyn Nets                   218.5

Milwaukee Bucks            – 10.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 9, 2026