After playing their first six games of the season on the road, the Yankees are home in the Bronx as they get set to face off versus the Miami Marlins in their home opener.
The Yankees won all but one game on their road trip on the west coast, as they surrendered only six runs with a pair of shutouts along the way in a sweep of the San Francisco Giants and a series victory against the Seattle Mariners.
The Yankees are one of three teams off to a 5-1 start, with one of those teams being their opponent this weekend in the Marlins.
The Marlins started their 2026 campaign with a six-game home stand that featured a sweep of the Colorado Rockies and taking two out of three matchups versus the Chicago White Sox.
Here’s how to watch, the starting pitchers for each club and our prediction for the Yankees home opener versus the Marlins in the series opener on Friday:
When is Yankees vs Marlins home opener game today?
Date: Friday, April 3
What time is Yankees vs Marlins home opener game today?
Time: 1:35 p.m. ET
How to watch Yankees vs Marlins home opener game today
Yankees, Marlins starting pitchers for home opener today
Yankees: Will Warren (0-0, 2.08 ERA)
Mariners: Eury Perez (0-0, 3.86 ERA)
Will Warren gets the call for his first career home opener start.
The 26-year-old right-hander gave up just one run and five hits in 4 1/3 innings of work in his debut against the Giants on March 28.
Warren notably pitched much better in front of the Yankeees’ faithful last year, as he had a 7-4 record with a 3.50 ERA in 16 starts at Yankee Stadium compared to 2-4 with a 5.52 ERA in 17 appearances on the road in 2025.
Opposite of him will be Marlins’ Eury Perez.
Perez has started one game as well this season, as he tied a career-high with seven innings pitched and allowed three runs on five hits, but game up two home runs versus the Rockies.
Perez, only 22-year-old, has pitched twice against the Yankees so far in his young career but is making his first start at Yankee Stadium.
Will Yankees beat Marlins in home opener today? Our prediction
Yes, the Yankees and Marlins have both only lost once coming into the series opener.
However, the quality of opponent has been drastically different with the Marlins playing two of the projected worst teams in all of baseball this season.
That difference shows on the field on Friday, as the Yankees offense scores a season-high eight runs, cruising to victory in front of the sellout crowd at Yankee Stadium.
Prediction: Yankees 8, Marlins 3
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Women in Crypto: Pioneering the Future of Digital Finance
The cryptocurrency and blockchain space has traditionally been male-dominated, but a growing number of women are stepping into the arena, breaking barriers, and contributing to the development of digital finance. These pioneers are not only redefining the landscape but also inspiring the next generation of female leaders in technology and finance.
Breaking Stereotypes
Women in crypto are challenging the stereotypes that have long persisted in the tech industry. They are taking on leadership roles as entrepreneurs, developers, and influencers, and they are not just participants; they are innovators. The growing visibility of women in this space is crucial for fostering a more inclusive environment.
Key Figures in the Industry
Many women have made their mark in the crypto world. Some notable figures include:
Elizabeth Stark – Co-founder of Lightning Labs, contributing to Bitcoin’s scalability.
Meltem Demirors – Chief Strategy Officer at CoinShares, a well-known advocate for crypto assets.
Galia Benartzi – Co-founder of Bancor, a decentralized liquidity network.
Joyce Kim – Co-founder of Stellar, a platform for cross-border payments.
The Importance of Diversity
Diversity in the crypto space fosters innovation. Different perspectives lead to creative solutions and broader understanding of market needs. Studies have shown that diverse teams are more effective and successful, which is essential for the evolving nature of digital finance.
Empowering the Next Generation
To ensure the sustainable growth of women’s involvement in crypto, mentorship and education are key. Many organizations and initiatives are dedicated to empowering women in technology, such as:
Women Who Code – A global nonprofit dedicated to inspiring women to excel in technology careers.
Girls Who Code – A nonprofit that aims to close the gender gap in technology through education.
Women in Blockchain – A community focused on increasing female participation in blockchain technology.
Looking Forward
The future of digital finance is vibrant and full of potential. As more women join the cryptocurrency and blockchain sectors, they will shape the ecosystem in groundbreaking ways. The inclusion of diverse voices will lead to better products, policies, and practices—ultimately benefiting the entire industry.
In conclusion, women are not just participants but vital contributors to the crypto revolution. Their involvement is not only paving the way for future innovations but also creating a more equitable landscape within finance and technology. The future is bright, and it is undoubtedly female.
Detroit — Only a truly invested fan would make a detour to their favorite team’s home state while on a road trip.
And that’s exactly what Ashley Korpela of Oklahoma did when she recently visited the D Shop in downtown Detroit to grab Detroit Tigers merch for herself and her boyfriend. The occasion: to mark the return of a pitching ace, Justin Verlander, to the rotation.
“We’re excited Verlander is coming back to Detroit,” Ashley Korpela told The Detroit News. Her boyfriend “used to have a very old Verlander shirt that he wore to shreds, so we want to update it now that Verlander is back and just signed that contract.”
What better excuse to grab more team gear? The Tigers’ home opener at Comerica Park on Friday against the St. Louis Cardinals comes amid high expectations for the playoff-caliber team and uncertain April-in-Detroit weather. Still, Accuweather reports temperatures could touch the 70s as retailers and fans nurse high hopes for a team that reached the postseason in each of the past two years.
Ashley’s mom, Susan Korpela of Massachusetts, joined the party, too, picking up multiple T-shirts and hoodies for the other baseball fans in her family. They took pictures outside the ballpark before shopping at the sports retail store.
“We came out because Verlander is now with Detroit, and my daughter’s boyfriend has followed Verlander for all of his career, so we’re shopping for their merch,” Susan Korpela, 62, said at the store. “She’s looking for her Verlander shirt.”
Unfortunately, Ashley Korpela didn’t find it. But she did buy an orange Tigers shirt for her boyfriend. Orange is the new predominant look in new alternate jerseys released this year. They will be worn by the Tigers at all Friday games, except this week’s home opener, when the team is set to wear its traditional white home jerseys.
A storied Major League franchise known as the oldest team in the American League, the Detroit Tigers have remained in their original city under their original name since 1901. They are ranked No. 22 on Forbes’s list of MLB’s most valuable teams: $1.8 billion. Forbes says the revenue per fan is $210.
Still, jerseys worn by star Tigers like two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal didn’t break the top 20 in sales last year, according to MLB.com. Topping the list: Shohei Otani, Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts of the champion Los Angeles Dodgers and Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees.
That doesn’t much matter to Tigers season ticket holders Rick and Marta Szymanski of Grosse Pointe, who stopped by the shop to beat the crowds the day before the season kick-off. The Tigers ended the season’s first game victorious over the San Diego Padres in a 5-2 win on March 27, but returned to Detroit for their opening home stand with a record of 2-4
Staff at the D Shop said popular names include pitchers Skubal and Verlander on white and orange jerseys stocked at the store. The retailer added a new hat wall with options to add a patch to any Tigers hat, as well as a customization zone where fans can add any name and number on a blank jersey that can be scouted at the store next door to Comerica Park.
The couple complimented the new merchandise at the store, including the new focus on the alternate colors.
Rick Szymanski, 62, bought another blue zip-up Tigers hoodie to add to his collection of team merchandise, including a satin Tigers embroidered road jacket from 1999. Marta Szymanski, 60, was looking for a white jacket with Detroit embroidery, but said it’s been sold since she last visited the store.
Rick Szymanski will keep his eyes on player movement this upcoming season: “I like the fact that the manager, (A.J.) Hinch, moves everybody around so he doesn’t have one person playing one position like the other managers did … mixing everybody up. It keeps the guys fresh, gives them days off so they can rest because a 160-game season is grueling.”
Greg Every is the owner of Fanatic U in Detroit. His store is currently sold out of alternate jerseys and is building up inventory to restock this week before the home opener.
“We had less than a dozen, but they sold out in less than a week,” Every said. “There’s been so much (Kevin) McGonigle (inquiries), it’s been overwhelming” — a sign of the fan enthusiasm being generated by the rookie infielder with a big bat.
Road jerseys, which are triple-colored, are more expensive to acquire, so Fanatic U shoppers are mostly copping home jerseys for $150 with names like McGonigle being a top pick, Every said: “This week right now what’s really popular is the orange, blue and white T-shirts, long-sleeve hoodies, a lot of those we get every year for Opening Day.”
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Tucson-area law enforcement is preparing for potentially rowdy crowds as the Wildcats play in the Final Four on Saturday.
“Saturday evening, you will see enhanced law enforcement presence both on University Boulevard, Congress, and Fourth Avenue,” said Tucson Police Department Capt. Lauren Pettey.
Pettey is in charge of NCAA safety planning and said officers will be prepared with riot gear in case things do get out of hand.
“We wanna be able to ensure that everyone is able to celebrate in a safe manner, and in order to do that, we want to provide enhanced law enforcement measures and have additional resources out and about,” Pettey said.
The enhanced security is in response to violent riots that happened downtown in 2001 following Arizona’s loss to Duke in the national title game and in 2014 following the Wildcats’ Elite Eight loss to Wisconsin.
Fans showed their frustration with the losses by congregating on the streets, setting cars on fire, and throwing bottles and cans at officers.
Bar and restaurant owners said they’re aware of those past riots.
“We don’t need the police coming in with the sandbags or the tear gas, which we’ve seen in the past, but that was a long time ago, I mean, maybe it’s a little different climate here on University now – people are a little more chill,” said Frog & Firkin’s Jonathan Graham.
Graham said the bar is preparing for the worst. They’re only letting people in with a reservation to avoid going over capacity.
“Literally every employee I have working, all my security, and even the extra security that we get from the wild west, so we’re ready to go,” Graham said.
TPD is also planning traffic enforcement starting Saturday morning. Meters on University will be hooded to prepare for the street being blocked off by barricades a few hours before game time.
“We wanna ensure that all pedestrians and bicyclists that are in the area have the ability to mingle and go about University, Congress, and Fourth Avenue,” Pettey said.
The University of Arizona’s Office of Public Safety and UAPD is also upping safety measures ahead of the game. They’re urging students to celebrate responsibly, make a plan, and contact UAPD if they’re in need of assistance.
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Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have taken center stage in conversations about cryptocurrency and digital ownership. While they initially gained fame through digital art sales, their potential applications extend far beyond that realm. This article explores how NFTs are transforming various industries and the implications for the future.
1. Revolutionizing Ownership and Authenticity
NFTs provide a unique solution to the issue of ownership in the digital world. Through blockchain technology, NFTs ensure that ownership can be verified without the need for intermediaries. This is particularly beneficial for industries like real estate, where smart contracts can simplify transactions, ensuring both parties adhere to agreed terms.
2. Enhancing Gaming Experiences
The gaming industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of NFTs. Gamers can now truly own their in-game assets, such as skins, weapons, or characters. This ownership allows players to trade or sell items across platforms, introducing a new economy within the gaming world. Play-to-earn models are also emerging, allowing players to earn real value through their gaming efforts.
3. Redefining Music and Entertainment
Musicians and creators are discovering innovative ways to engage with their audiences through NFTs. Artists can release exclusive content, digital collectibles, and even concert tickets as NFTs, creating new revenue streams while fostering community. Notable musicians have already begun to embrace this model, allowing fans to own a piece of their favorite artists’ work.
4. Improving Supply Chain Transparency
NFTs are also being utilized to improve transparency in supply chains. By assigning NFTs to products, companies can provide consumers with proof of authenticity and traceability. This is particularly relevant in industries like fashion and luxury goods, where counterfeiting is a significant concern. Customers can verify the origin and journey of products, enhancing trust and value.
5. The Future of Ticketing
The ticketing industry stands to benefit greatly from NFTs as well. By issuing tickets as NFTs, promoters and venues can reduce fraud and scalping. Every ticket can be tracked and traced, ensuring its authenticity and allowing for smoother transfers between holders. Additionally, NFT tickets can offer unique perks, such as exclusive access to future events or meet-and-greets with artists.
Conclusion
As NFTs continue to evolve, their applications extend far beyond digital art. From redefining ownership in gaming to enhancing transparency in supply chains, these unique digital assets are poised to change how various industries operate. The key to unlocking their full potential lies in the creativity and innovation of those willing to explore possibilities. As we move forward, the journey of NFTs is likely just beginning.
SAN FRANCISCO – March only sprinkled more salt on the Warriors’ many wounds as the clouds opened and the sun began to shine in the Bay Area.
Steph Curry missed a second straight month to runner’s knee, and Moses Moody sustained a devastating torn patellar tendon in his first game back after missing the previous 10 from a sprained wrist. A great win against Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets was followed by a four-game losing streak that included back-to-back, gut-wrenching losses to the lowly Utah Jazz and Chicago Bulls. The month included a three-game losing streak, a four-game losing streak and twice as many losses (10) as wins (five).
So, where’s the good news aside from beating the Dallas Mavericks, Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards? We can promise it wasn’t all doom and gloom.
The biggest positive, by far, was Brandin Podziemski. From the outside, Podziemski has become a polarizing figure among Dub Nation. Between the lines, Podziemski enjoyed the best month of his young NBA career.
“You always look for silver linings when guys are out and other guys step up,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Tuesday after practice. “Whether it’s the minutes for Gui [Santos], for example, allowing him to take another step in his game, or BP having more responsibility handling the ball and seeing more reps, it’s like anything else: You just need to do something over and over and over again to learn the little nuances, to learn what you can and can’t do.
“The more reps, the better. And these reps this last month have been great for BP.”
Podziemski played all 15 of the Warriors’ games and averaged 33.5 minutes per game, the most for a month in his three-year NBA career. The month was full of career bests for Podziemski. He averaged his most points per game for a month (17.7) and made his most threes for a month (38), while his 21.3 usage percentage also was his highest ever for a month.
In a month where he scored at least 20 points in eight of the 15 games he played, other facets outside of scoring also stood out. Podziemski grabbed 10 rebounds in three games and averaged 6.3 rebounds per game, as well as 4.1 assists per game with twice as many assists (61) than turnovers (30).
“Well, No. 1, he’s a competitor,” Kerr says. “He’s there. He’s played every single game, knock on wood. That’s a really hard thing to do, to be there for your team every single game, every practice. He’s a competitor, he loves this. He just wants to be great.”
Podziemski’s final game in March, a frustrating blowout loss to the Denver Nuggets, was his fourth straight 20-point game, dropping 23 on 8-of-14 shooting and 5 of 8 from deep, on top of having five rebounds, two assists, two steals and one blocked shot. He says his scoring surge isn’t top of mind, but instead the result of letting the game come to him.
“Not really thinking about that, honestly,” Podziemski told reporters Sunday night in Denver. “Just playing my game, taking opportunities when they’re there and letting the results fall where they may. Fortunately, the result has been looking pretty good as of late for me.”
Growing pains still have been visible, including last game when Kerr outwardly was upset Podziemski tried to dribble past Christian Braun and forced a runner with an open Kristaps Porziņģis calling for the ball at the right wing. Porziņģis was 5 of 5 on threes, and the mistake flipped the game in the Nuggets’ favor. Podziemski missed four fourth-quarter free throws in that ugly loss to the Utah Jazz three weeks ago, but then shot 84.2 percent on free throws the rest of the month.
Podziemski recently addressing comments he made at the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, when he said he would be the white Shohei Ohtani if he still played baseball, and that he wants to be even better than Steph Curry, was another sign of growth, development and maturity. Podziemski knows confidence is a strength of his, and he knows he should have chosen his words more wisely for the betterment of the team.
“I think the growth, you saw it the other day where he admitted, ‘Hey, I shouldn’t have said what I said at the beginning of the year.’ I thought that was great to have the self awareness that, OK, I made a mistake, I got to learn from that,” Kerr said.
“It’s all encompassing really when you think about a young player developing. It’s on the floor, it’s off the floor. It’s recognizing patterns and nuances within the game itself, and then it’s recognizing the emotional side of the team and what the team needs from you. The best teams click in a certain way, and every player has to play a role within that to help the team click. I think he’s really learning that.”
Whenever Curry inevitably returns in the near future, he’ll go back to being the sun that the Warriors orbit in their solar system. And Podziemski, like the rest of the Warriors, will benefit the second Curry steps on the court. He has shown that he can play with Curry, and now is when Podziemski needed to prove he can be relied on to produce without him.
Podziemski is one of only four players under contract who will enter next season healthy. He’s rookie contract extension eligible, though that’s on the Warriors’ back-burner for now. Maybe he can be a solid trade chip, too.
That’s all speculation. Sticking to reality, the Warriors will be without Jimmy Butler the majority of next season. Who knows if Moody will be able to play at all. Asking Curry to play 70 games next season like he did last season seems like an impossible request.
Even as Podziemski has learned to slow his roll and trust the process, the best month of his career confirmed tossing him the keys can keep the Warriors from spiraling out of control and stay on the right track in conjunction to his personal and professional growth, development and maturity as he remains Golden State’s youngest player.
DeFi vs. Traditional Finance: A Comparative Analysis
Introduction
In recent years, the world of finance has encountered a major transformation with the rise of Decentralized Finance (DeFi). This new paradigm challenges the traditional financial systems we have relied upon for decades. This article will explore the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of DeFi and Traditional Finance.
What is Traditional Finance?
Traditional Finance includes established financial systems such as banks, insurance companies, and stock markets. It operates on centralized management and regulated environments where financial transactions are facilitated by intermediaries.
Key Features of Traditional Finance:
Regulation: Subject to strict government regulations to protect consumers.
Intermediaries: Involves intermediaries like banks and brokers to facilitate transactions.
Access: Often requires identification and credit history for account setup.
Fees: High service fees for transactions and account maintenance.
What is DeFi?
Decentralized Finance refers to a financial ecosystem built on blockchain technology that aims to recreate and improve upon traditional financial systems without relying on centralized intermediaries. DeFi platforms allow users to lend, borrow, trade, and earn interest on their assets peer-to-peer.
Key Features of DeFi:
Decentralization: Operates on a decentralized network, reducing reliance on intermediaries.
Accessibility: Open to anyone with an internet connection, no need for identification.
Transparency: All transactions are recorded on a public ledger, offering full transparency.
Lower Fees: Lower costs due to the absence of intermediaries.
Comparative Analysis
Advantages of Traditional Finance:
Established trust and credibility.
Insured deposits in many cases (like FDIC insurance in the USA).
Robust customer support and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Advantages of DeFi:
Greater financial inclusivity; no prerequisites required.
High returns on lending and staking assets.
Flexibility and control over one’s assets.
Disadvantages of Traditional Finance:
Often slow transaction speeds.
High fees and hidden charges.
Limited accessibility in some regions.
Disadvantages of DeFi:
High volatility and potential risks associated with cryptocurrencies.
Lack of regulation can lead to scams and fraud.
Complex interfaces and technology may deter new users.
Conclusion
Both DeFi and Traditional Finance offer unique advantages and challenges. Traditional Finance provides security and regulation, while DeFi offers accessibility and innovation. As technological advancements continue, the financial landscape will likely evolve, possibly integrating elements of both systems to create a balanced and inclusive financial future.
In the East, the Detroit Pistons have a strong lead atop the conference. But which playoff matchups will follow and which teams will fall into the play-in tournament?
With only a handful of games left on each team’s schedule but lots still to be decided, our NBA insiders look at the top storylines to watch for each of the 30 teams in this week’s Power Rankings.
Note: Team rankings are based on where members of our panel (ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Dave McMenamin, Jamal Collier, Michael C. Wright, Ohm Youngmisuk, Tim Bontemps, Tim MacMahon, Vincent Goodwill and Zach Kram) think teams belong.
Stephen A.: We aren’t debating the greatness of SGA
Kendrick Perkins and Stephen A. Smith react to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander being called for an offensive foul at the end of regulation vs. the Pistons.
Does Oklahoma City maintain its grip on the top seed? The Thunder have gone 18-2 across their past 20 games but haven’t generated any separation from a San Antonio Spurs team that has gone 25-2 over their prior 27 outings. Entering Wednesday, the Thunder were still up 2.5 games in the standings. But the Spurs own the tiebreaker with a 4-1 head-to-head record. OKC has six games left: Lakers, Jazz, Lakers, Clippers, Nuggets and Suns. If the Thunder win at least five, they’ll secure home-court advantage throughout the postseason; if they lose two, they’ll crack open the door for the surging Spurs. — Anthony Slater
2025-26 record: 57-18
Previous ranking: 4
Next games: @ GS (April 1), @ LAC (April 2), @ DEN (April 4), vs. POR (April 6)
It appears San Antonio is peaking at just the right time. But the question now is whether the Spurs can take it up another notch while resting key contributors for the postseason. As winners of nine consecutive games with a record of 25-2 since Feb. 1, this young and confident team still believes the best is yet to come, especially with French phenom Victor Wembanyama on a tear to try to win his first MVP. The guard trio of De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper is flourishing at attacking the paint, which provides clean looks from deep for Julian Champagnie, Harrison Barnes and Devin Vassell. — Michael C. Wright
With a four-game lead on the Celtics and the tiebreaker, the Pistons look like a team that can hold onto the top seed. To keep Detroit afloat in Cade Cunningham‘s injury absence that is expected to last until the playoffs, coach J.B. Bickerstaff has thrust players into increased roles. Jalen Duren is becoming more of a primary scorer, while Daniss Jenkins has thrived with the added responsibility. The Pistons also have rediscovered their hellacious defense, which had suffered some slippage in the second half of the season. Knowing that Cunningham will return, Bickerstaff has to get his players back into roles more suited to the playoffs — assuming the Pistons clinch soon. — Vincent Goodwill
2025-26 record: 50-25
Previous ranking: 3
Next games: @ MIA (April 1), @ MIL (April 3), vs. Toronto (April 5), vs. CHA (April 7)
Boston will wind up either second or third in the East standings, so the question surrounding the Celtics for the final few games is, what will Jayson Tatum look like in the playoffs? He did win Eastern Conference Player of the Week honors last week, but Sunday’s breakout shooting performance in a win at Charlotte was an outlier following his return. With several playoff-caliber opponents on the schedule down the stretch, Tatum will get more chances to round his game into form. — Tim Bontemps
How important is the best seed versus getting players ready for the postseason? It’s a delicate balance that Mike Brown has to walk as the return of Miles McBride from hernia surgery means the coach can go as deep as nine in his rotation for the postseason. It would be a deviation from his last playoff team with Sacramento, which had seven players getting 20 minutes or more in its first-round playoff series in 2023. The starters’ minutes are down across the board for the Knicks from last season, as Josh Hart is playing seven fewer minutes per game and Karl-Anthony Towns is down five. But will this team be in a rhythm, especially with three games at Madison Square Garden to finish? Will they try to catch the Celtics as the second seed or sit comfortably in third, even as the Cavaliers are closing in? — Goodwill
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Redick makes the case for Luka as MVP
Lakers coach JJ Redick explains why Luka Doncic should be in consideration to win the NBA’s MVP award.
The Lakers have two races they will try to win as they sprint toward the finish line. The first is holding off Denver, Minnesota and Houston to keep the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference. The other is continuing to make a case for Luka Doncic to be named MVP for the first time in his career. Lakers coach JJ Redick said this week that if Los Angeles and Doncic stay as hot as they’ve been down the stretch, then “to me, he is the MVP.” — Dave McMenamin
The Nuggets are finally whole again with Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson returning from extended absences due to hamstring strains. The hope is that Denver can create some decent defensive identity down the stretch as the fight for home-court advantage in the first round heats up. Denver ranks 21st in defensive efficiency, allowing 116.0 points per 100 possessions as the worst mark among teams headed for the postseason. Its defensive rating with Gordon on the floor is 111.3, which would rank fourth in the league. — Tim MacMahon
Who will emerge as the Cavaliers’ first-round foe? Cleveland has spent most of the second half locked into the No. 4 spot in the East, but its opponent has been in flux. There are two teams, Toronto and Atlanta, currently tied for the No. 5 seed, with Philadelphia only 1.5 games behind. There’s also a chance Cleveland moves up in the standings. Entering Tuesday, the Cavs trailed the Knicks by one game for the third seed. — Jamal Collier
2025-26 record: 46-29
Previous ranking: 9
Next games: @ DET (April 2), @ PHI (April 3), vs. CHA (April 5), @ IND (April 7)
With Anthony Edwards back on the court after returning Monday, Minnesota now has to navigate being without Jaden McDaniels, who is sidelined with a bone bruise in his left knee. The question, however, is whether the Wolves will land in the 4-5 matchup — all but certainly with Denver — or fall behind Houston into the 3-6 matchup and a first-round series with the Lakers for a second straight year. — Bontemps
2025-26 record: 46-29
Previous ranking: 10
Next games: vs. MIL (April 1), vs. UTAH (April 3), @ GS (April 5), @ PHX (April 7)
Consistency and late-game execution remain issues Houston hopes to solve before the start of the postseason. On top of everything else, the Rockets find themselves looking to create ways to rest veteran Kevin Durant ahead of the playoffs. The 37-year-old swingman ranks third in the NBA in average minutes (36.4) after playing in 72 games. With Houston in striking distance of Denver and Minnesota in the West standings and trying to hold off seventh-place Phoenix, the Rockets need to win games, improve consistency and find ways to rest their most potent offensive weapon. Not an easy task. — Wright
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Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks: Game Highlights
Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks: Game Highlights
The Hawks will look to continue their red-hot play and keep meshing at the right time in the final two weeks. Quin Snyder has done an amazing job with this roster, going 16-2 over the past 18 games . The Hawks want to hold onto the sixth seed or better and avoid the play-in. They will get a chance to really test their surging play with key games against the Magic, Knicks and Cavs (twice) then at Miami in the regular-season finale. Jalen Johnson‘s star continues to rise, and this season is all about getting these young Hawks some valuable experience in a playoff series. — Ohm Youngmisuk
2025-26 record: 42-33
Previous ranking: 13
Next games: vs. SAC (April 1), @ MEM (April 3), @ BOS (April 5), vs. MIA (April 7)
Thanks in part to a 52-point win (!) over Orlando on Sunday, the Raptors remain favored to finish in the top six in the East and avoid the play-in tournament. As long as the Raptors take care of business against the three tanking teams left on their schedule (Sacramento, Memphis and Brooklyn) and don’t get swept by the non-tanking teams (Boston, Miami, twice, and New York), they should automatically qualify for their first postseason appearance since the 2021-22 campaign. — Zach Kram
Three of Phoenix’s final four games could have major playoff implications for the seventh-place Suns. They host the Rockets, currently No. 6 in the West, then play the Lakers in L.A. before finishing off at Oklahoma City. Despite remaining 3.5 games behind Houston, if the Suns can keep winning down the stretch, maybe they can catch the Rockets and avoid the play-in. — McMenamin
The Clippers have two games remaining against Portland and one versus Golden State. They are currently No. 8 in the West, the Blazers are No. 9 and the Warriors are No. 10. The outcome of those matchups down the stretch could shake up the order of the play-in seeding and determine if the Clips will host a game or go on the road to try to extend their season. — McMenamin
2025-26 record: 40-36
Previous ranking: 14
Next games: vs. PHX (April 2), vs. IND (April 3), @ MIN (April 5), @ BOS (April 7)
The Hornets lost back-to-back home games last weekend, to the Sixers and the Celtics, but it was viewed as a positive experience. The 118-114 defeat versus Philadelphia came in a game that featured playoff-like intensity, and the young Hornets are soaking in every learning moment. In the final two weeks, the Hornets will try to gain the best position possible in the East standings — likely for the play-in — and continue to gain experience. Charlotte has to do better in close games, and the final three contests will be massive tests at Boston, against the Pistons and at the Knicks. — Youngmisuk
2025-26 record: 41-34
Previous ranking: 15
Next games: @ WAS (April 1), vs. MIN (April 3), vs. DET (April 4), @ SAS (April 6)
With a handful of games left, Philadelphia — after dealing with almost its entire starting five being out for several weeks — is on the verge of making it into the top six in the East playoff race. There might not be a team that needs to climb out of the play-in more than Philadelphia, to avoid any extra chances for injury while having its full group ready when the playoffs arrive. If the 76ers can manage to do that, they will be a dangerous first-round opponent for whichever team in the top half of the bracket lands them. — Bontemps
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Philadelphia 76ers vs. Miami Heat: Game Highlights
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Miami Heat: Game Highlights
Miami has to find a way to get back the rhythm it had during a seven-game winning streak at the start of March. It had lost seven of the past nine, but Monday’s 119-109 win over Philadelphia was important in the East standings with the Sixers 1.5 games above Miami. The Heat now have to care of business with two tilts against Washington then see where they stand with two games at Toronto, one against the Celtics and the season-finale against the Hawks. Health, as always, is vital for the Heat. — Youngmisuk
2025-26 record: 40-35
Previous ranking: 17
Next games: vs. ATL (April 1), @ DAL (April 3), @ NO (April 5), vs. DET (April 6)
Orlando has to fix its vibes and get healthy in the final two weeks. After snapping a six-game slide with a win over Sacramento, the Magic didn’t even bother to show up in Toronto on Sunday, losing by a humiliating 52 points while giving up a record-setting 31-0 run. But Orlando has a chance to end a disappointing season with positive energy. Franz Wagner (left ankle) is nearing a return to the court. He hasn’t played since Feb. 11, and the Magic need him badly for a chance to make any noise in the postseason. Versatile guard Anthony Black (left lateral abdominal) also has a chance to return before the end of the regular season. — Youngmisuk
Can the Blazers sneak past the Clippers for the eighth seed? Portland secured a monster win in Los Angeles on Tuesday night to pull within half a game of the Clips in the standings. The teams will meet again in Portland in the second-to-last game of the regular season. That offers the Blazers a real chance to move into the eighth seed, which would give them a significantly better chance at sneaking into the playoffs, with two cracks at one win instead of needing to win two elimination games. — Slater
2025-26 record: 36-39
Previous ranking: 20
Next games: vs. SAS (April 1), vs. CLE (April 2), vs. HOU (April 5), vs. SAC (April 7)
What’s the status of Stephen Curry? After a number of setbacks in his attempted return from a persistent right knee issue, Curry was finally given the green light to scrimmage Tuesday afternoon. If his knee responds well to the 5-on-5 live contact, the Warriors plan to rev up Curry in the coming days and get him back on the court with a few regular-season games left. It will give him a “runway” to catch a rhythm before the Warriors face two elimination games during the play-in week to attempt to claim the eighth playoff spot. — Slater
2025-26 record: 29-46
Previous ranking: 23
Next games: vs. IND (April 1), @ NYK (April 3), vs. PHX (April 5), @ WAS (April 7)
Did Chicago actually accomplish anything at the trade deadline?
Chicago released guard Jaden Ivey this week after he shared his anti-gay sentiments on social media. Ivey was one of the young players that Chicago took a chance on at the deadline, and the organization parting ways with him underscored another disastrous transaction cycle. The Bulls traded seven players in February, but none of the moves dramatically improved their lottery odds or added any young players who look like fits in their future. The final few weeks of the season will be the Bulls’ opportunity to find something that could change that. — Collier
2025-26 record: 25-51
Previous ranking: 21
Next games: @ POR (April 2), @ SAC (April 3), vs. ORL (April 5), vs. UTAH (April 7)
Interim coach James Borrego called out the Pelicans for a lackadaisical approach in a 32-point loss to the Rockets on Sunday that extended the team’s losing streak to five games. It also marked New Orleans’ fourth 30-point defeat this season (second most in franchise history behind the team’s seven in 2024-25). Keep in mind, this is a squad teeming with talent trying to finish strong to generate some optimism headed into an offseason that’s likely to feature some changes. New Orleans is looking to snap its skid, and Borrego is hoping to remain the coach of the Pels. — Wright
2025-26 record: 30-45
Previous ranking: 22
Next games: @ HOU (April 1), vs. BOS (April 3), vs. MEM (April 5), @ BKN (April 7)
Will Giannis Antetokounmpo play again this campaign? Milwaukee will miss the playoffs for the first time in nine seasons, and although nine players sat out Sunday against the Clippers, the team still hasn’t ruled its superstar out. Even though the Bucks haven’t made an official distinction, coach Doc Rivers said last week that Antetokounmpo — who has appeared in only 36 games — still hasn’t practiced with the team since his latest knee injury on March 15. — Collier
2025-26 record: 25-50
Previous ranking: 24
Next games: vs. NYK (April 1), vs. TOR (April 3), @ MIL (April 5), vs. CLE (April 6)
Memphis is sitting at 11th in the West standings after being decimated by injuries this season. Let’s see just how far this tanking team can fall to close it out. The team announced its latest addition to the injury list on Tuesday, as second-year wing Jaylen Wells underwent a procedure on a toe on his right foot that will put him out for the remainder of the campaign. If you’re keeping count, that’s now eight players out, including star guard Ja Morant and center Zach Edey, as the Grizzlies will finish by facing five expected postseason participants in their final seven games. — Wright
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0:42
Mark Cuban admits he regrets who he sold Mavericks to
Mark Cuban says he doesn’t regret selling the Mavericks, but he acknowledges remorse about selling the team to the Adelson and Dumont families.
Cooper Flagg‘s pursuit of Rookie of the Year is the only reason worth watching the Mavs as they limp toward another lottery pick. Flagg has had a historic rookie season — joining Larry Bird, Michael Jordan and Luka Doncic as the only first-year players since the ABA-NBA merger to average at least 20 points, six rebounds and four assists. However, Flagg’s former Duke roommate Kon Knueppel has supplanted him as the ROY betting favorite. — MacMahon
2025-26 record: 21-55
Previous ranking: 26
Next games: vs. DEN (April 1), @ HOU (April 3), @ OKC (April 5), @ NO (April 7)
Jazz fans surely would prefer to fast-forward to next season, when the franchise intends to be competitive after a tank-filled four-year rebuild. In the meantime, Utah can focus on the potential and the development of rookie Ace Bailey, the fifth pick who had three 30-point performances in March. — MacMahon
2025-26 record: 19-57
Previous ranking: 27
Next games: @ TOR (April 1), vs. NO (April 3), vs. LAC (April 5), @ GS (April 7)
Can the Kings improve their lottery percentages? The Kings won five of eight recently to jump ahead of the Pacers, Wizards and Nets in the standings. That dipped Sacramento’s chances of securing the No. 1 pick from 14% to 12.5% and a top-four pick from 52.1% to 48.1%. Sacramento is currently at 19 wins, while the Nets are at 18 and the Pacers and Wizards sit at 17. If the Kings can fall behind one of those three teams, they’ll regain those slightly better percentages. Not exactly thrilling theater, but nothing about this Kings season has been too riveting. — Slater
Brooklyn just needs to complete the task. The Nets started this season committed to playing five first-round picks and hoping someone could develop, while also devoting to the tank. Despite Michael Porter Jr.‘s handling of being a primary scoring option, they’re still last in the league in efficiency. Cam Thomas has come and gone. And all that’s left is to race to the bottom. If the Nets stay in the bottom three, they’ll have a 14% chance at the top pick and an increased chance at getting to at least fourth in a draft that could hold four franchise players. It’s been intentionally ugly; they might as well finish it. — Goodwill
2025-26 record: 17-58
Previous ranking: 30
Next games: @ CHI (April 1), @ CHA (April 3), @ CLE (April 5), vs. MIN (April 7)
Tied for the worst record in the league, the Pacers are on track to finish with primo lottery odds. But with the Nets at 18 wins (and with one game left against Indiana) and the Kings at 19, every game still counts for a team that is hoping to land one big prospect before returning to contention in 2026-27. — Kram
2025-26 record: 17-58
Previous ranking: 29
Next games: vs. PHI (April 1), @ MIA (April 4), @ BKN (April 5), vs. CHI (April 7)
Stop us if you’ve heard this before … Tied for the worst record in the league, the Wizards are on track to finish with primo lottery odds. But with the Nets at 18 wins (and with one game left against Washington) and the Kings at 19, every game still counts for a team that is hoping to land one big prospect before returning to contention in 2026-27. — Kram
The bottom third of the Kansas City lineup has taken care of business for the second consecutive game, but in much more spectacular fashion tonight. Scoring started in the second with two out and no one on when Jac Caglianone hit a 110.1 mph rocket to center for a double. Collins hit the next ball 110.9 mph to top Jac and bring him home on another double followed by a Kyle Isbel RBI single. He then stole second and Maikel Garcia hit a hard to field ball off of Brooks Lee’s glove at short to score the third run on the inning. That was just the beginning.
Another run scored in the 3rd on a popup to third by India that the fog hid from Royce Lewis.
And another came the next inning after Cags, Collins, and Isbel all reached again and Garcia hit a sac fly. The rain really got going as KC batted 11 in the 6th. Walks, HBPs, errors, and a Jonathan India grand slam brought seven more runs and a $25,000 Sonic Slam winner. The rest of the game was hampered significantly by the weather but without any extended stoppage of play. At 12-1, it looked like the Royals would cruise to victory.
Jac, Isaac, and Kyle combined to go 8 of 11 with a BB and HBP reaching base in all but 3 of their 14 plate appearances. Isbel tacked a solo shot on in the 7th to finish the dominant performance off for the bottom of the order. All of the starting 9 at least reached base with Carter Jensen sneaking a single in during the 8th to join in on the fun, but it was the back of the lineup that carried the load today.
On the pitching side, Noah Cameron was very sharp to begin the night, especially the first two innings. He through a first pitch strike to each of the first six Minnesota batters but did seem to lose some command in the 4th and 5th innings. He got through that 5th despite giving up a lot of hard contact and was pulled with a final line of 5IP, 4H, 1BB, 1ER, and 5K and the win. That is a solid start to his sophomore campaign.
Daniel Lynch, Alex Lange, and Brady Falter all struggled to find the zone a bit with Lynch giving up 3 runs in the 7th, Lange 2 in the 8th before Cruz came in and finished the inning, and Falter 3 in the 9th. There were a lot of walks and hit batters from both teams due to the wet baseballs, so I would not read too much into their less than spectacular performances. It did make the game look closer than it felt and even ended up in a save situation that brought in Lucas Erceg to seal the deal.
There were also a ton of ABS challenges, 9 out of 11 were overturned and the Royals only went one for two. Since the game was not very close, none of these mattered all that much in the end. Still, it was a busy day for the new system and a very high success rate.
In the end, the Royals move to 3-2 on the year. They are above .500 and going for sweep against the Twins tomorrow. There is a bit more rain in the forecast again and that 1:00 pm start time is definitely in jeopardy.
The Psychology of Trading: Understanding Market Behavior in Crypto
The world of cryptocurrency trading is as thrilling as it is volatile. Understanding the psychological factors that drive market behavior can be the key to becoming a successful trader. In this article, we will explore the major psychological aspects that influence trading decisions and market trends in the crypto space.
1. The Emotional Rollercoaster of Trading
Trading is not just a numbers game; it’s deeply intertwined with human emotions. Traders often experience a multitude of feelings including:
Fear: Fear of losing money can lead to panic selling, especially during a market downturn.
Greed: Conversely, the desire to capture profits can result in holding onto assets for too long.
Hope: Traders may hold onto a depreciating asset, hoping it will rebound.
Regret: Missed opportunities can lead to regret, often resulting in impulsive trading decisions.
2. Cognitive Biases and Their Impact
Cognitive biases are systematic errors in thinking that can affect the decisions of traders. Some common biases in crypto trading include:
Confirmation Bias: Traders may only seek information that confirms their existing beliefs, ignoring contradictory data.
Anchoring: The tendency to rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered, such as a previous high price.
Overconfidence: Many traders overestimate their knowledge and ability, leading to riskier trades.
3. Herd Behavior in Crypto Markets
Herd behavior is a psychological phenomenon where individuals mimic the actions of a larger group. This can lead to major price swings in crypto markets. During bullish trends, many traders jump in, fearing they might miss out on potential gains (FOMO). On the flip side, during bearish trends, panic selling can ensue as traders rush to exit positions to avoid further losses.
4. Strategies to Manage Trading Psychology
To navigate the psychological challenges of trading, it is essential to adopt effective strategies:
Develop a Trading Plan: A well-defined plan can help traders stick to their strategies and avoid emotional decision-making.
Practice Mindfulness: Staying aware of one’s emotional state can help mitigate impulsive actions.
Keep a Trading Journal: Documenting trades can reveal patterns in behavior and help improve decision-making.
Conclusion
The psychology of trading plays a crucial role in determining market behavior, particularly in the volatile world of cryptocurrencies. By understanding and addressing the emotional and psychological factors at play, traders can enhance their decision-making skills and potentially improve their trading outcomes. Emphasizing a disciplined, knowledgeable approach is essential for navigating the complexities of the crypto market.
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