RADIO
Joel Embiid Returns With Double-Double
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid scored a team-high 26 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in Sunday's 128-98 loss to the Boston Celtics. Philadelphia had Embiid available for the first time in this series, but still couldn't hang with the Celtics. The former MVP started well but ran out of gas as the game progressed, missing seven consecutive field-goal attempts at one point. Given that Embiid had an appendectomy just 17 days ago, this wasn't surprising. After the game, he admitted he is still experiencing complications from the procedure. Embiid, who logged 34 minutes, finished 9-for-21 from the floor, missing five of six from three-point range. He wrapped up his line with six assists, one steal, and one block. Overall, it was a good comeback performance, but the 76ers will need more from Embiid in Tuesday's Game 5 to avoid elimination.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Jayson Tatum Logs 30-Point Double-Double in Sunday's Win
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum dominated against the Philadelphia 76ers in Sunday's Game 4, recording 30 points, seven rebounds, and 11 assists in a blowout victory. He had his third double-double of the series, his first with assists. Tatum netted five triples for a second consecutive game and made exactly half of his 16 field-goal attempts. He was 9-for-9 at the line. Philadelphia rocked Boston in Game 2 with a road win, but the Celtics are dictating the series, and Tatum looks very sharp. He has averaged 24.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 8.5 assists in 37.3 minutes per game.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
LeBron James Quiet in Game 4 Loss to Rockets
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James was limited to 10 points as the team failed to clinch its spot in the second round of the playoffs on Sunday night, losing 115-96 to the Houston Rockets. With James in top form, the Lakers secured a 3-0 series lead, but they were second-best from the outset in Game 4. James made only two of nine field-goal attempts and scored most of his points at the charity stripe, going six-for-six. He grabbed four rebounds and handed out nine assists. Worryingly for the Lakers, James posted eight turnovers for a second consecutive game. Sunday night was a major struggle for James, but he should be fired up to produce a strong bounce-back performance in Game 5 on Wednesday.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Julius Randle Handed $35K Fine for His Part in Game 4 Altercation
Minnesota Timberwolves power forward Julius Randle was fined $35,000 for his part in an altercation in the final seconds of Game 4 against the Denver Nuggets, ESPN's Anthony Slater reports. Minnesota blew out the Nuggets on home court, but forward Jaden McDaniels went for an uncontested layup with 1.3 seconds left in the fourth quarter. This irked Nikola Jokic, and the two teams got into an altercation on the court. Randle escalated the situation with several shoves. Both Jokic and Randle were ejected from the game. No suspensions were handed out for the incident. Losing more players is the last thing the Timberwolves need after Anthony Edwards (knee) and Donte DiVincenzo (Achilles) were injured in Game 5. As a result, we should see Julius Randle take on more offensive duties for the rest of the series.
Source: Anthony Slater
Source: Anthony Slater
Nikola Jokic Fined $50K for Game 4 Incident
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic has been fined $50,000 for his involvement in an altercation late in Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, ESPN's Anthony Slater reports. Tensions flared between the teams after Jokic took exception to Jaden McDaniels' uncontested layup in the final seconds, by which time the Timberwolves had already clinched an impressive victory and a 3-1 series lead. No suspensions were handed out, despite several players -- including Aaron Gordon, Jonas Valanciunas, Rudy Gobert, and Bones Hyland -- leaving the bench area. Jokic is averaging 25.0 points, 14.5 rebounds, 7.8 assists, and 1.5 steals in the series. But he hasn't been quite himself and will look to increase his performance level in Monday's must-win Game 5.
Source: Anthony Slater
Source: Anthony Slater
Justin Wrobleski Excelling in Rotation, Waiver Wire Value Soaring
Dodgers left-hander Justin Wrobleski has been elite in his transition back to a starting role this season, posting a 1.50 ERA and 0.97 WHIP through five games. Wrobleski has continued his steady growth entering his third year with Los Angeles and is climbing quickly within an already loaded rotation. The 25-year-old owns a 0.69 ERA in April and has already earned four wins, showing the ability to work deep into games. Wrobleski has attacked the strike zone consistently while generating more weak contact. He made only two starts for the Dodgers last season, but he looks fully comfortable in this expanded role. If this level continues, Wrobleski will remain one of the best waiver wire additions for fantasy managers seeking pitching help.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Randy Vasquez Shoving for Padres; Must-Watch Waiver Wire Arm
San Diego Padres right-hander Randy Vasquez has been dominant through five starts this season, posting a 1.88 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 30 strikeouts across 28.2 innings. Vasquez has allowed more than one run only once, showing impressive consistency in his third year with San Diego. The 27-year-old logged a 3.84 ERA in 28 games last season, but he appears ready to take another step in 2026. His swing-and-miss profile has improved dramatically, with his K% rising to 26.3 after finishing at 13.7 last year. If this growth continues into May, he could become a key fantasy waiver wire target and an important piece of the Padres rotation.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Yankees Call Up Jasson Dominguez, Worth an Add After Dominant Start at Triple-A?
The New York Yankees have called up outfielder Jasson Dominguez after a dominant start at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Dominguez hit .306 with an .875 OPS and three home runs in 22 games, earning another opportunity with the first-place Yankees. The 23-year-old has flashed impact tools since debuting in 2023, but he has not yet delivered consistent production in the majors. Dominguez slashed .257/.331/.388 across 123 games last season and was left off the Opening Day roster this year. This promotion gives him a fresh chance to translate his minor league momentum into everyday value. If he starts quickly, Dominguez could secure a meaningful role in a potent Yankees lineup.
Source: Francys Romero
Source: Francys Romero
Jack Perkins Emerging as Athletics Closer, Waiver-Wire Value Rising
Athletics right-hander Jack Perkins is quickly emerging as the club's preferred ninth-inning option after recording saves in each of his last two appearances. Perkins has been one of the early surprises in the Athletics bullpen, posting a 3.18 ERA and 1.15 WHIP through six outings. Scott Barlow entered the season as the likely favorite for save chances, but he blew his lone opportunity and has shifted into more of a setup role with five holds already. Perkins is in his second major league season and is showing the poise and stuff needed for high-leverage work. His recent usage suggests growing trust from the coaching staff as the Athletics sort out late-game roles. Fantasy managers searching for saves should act quickly, as Perkins is trending toward steady closing opportunities moving forward.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Luis Gil Optioned to Triple-A, Yankees Rotation Role in Question
New York Yankees right-hander Luis Gil has been optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre following Sunday's 7-4 loss to the Houston Astros. Gil struggled in the outing, lasting four innings while allowing six runs on five hits, including two home runs. The 27-year-old has endured a difficult fifth MLB season after missing most of last year with an injury. His ERA has risen to 6.05, and he owns a 1.34 WHIP through four starts. Gil has struggled to limit hard contact and has not found consistent success with his new sinker. He will now look to reset in Triple-A and work his way back into the Yankees' rotation plans.
Source: Yankees PR Dept.
Source: Yankees PR Dept.
Blake Snell Set for Tuesday Rehab Start, Late May Return in Sight
Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Blake Snell (shoulder) is scheduled to make his second rehab start for the Ontario Tower Buzzers on Tuesday as he works back from a left shoulder injury. Snell has been on the 15-day injured list since March 22 and has not appeared in a game this season. He threw 32 pitches in his first rehab outing, and a late May return remains possible if he continues to progress. When healthy, Snell remains one of baseball's most dominant left-handed starters. In his first season with the Dodgers in 2025, he posted a 2.35 ERA with 72 strikeouts in 61 1/3 innings across a limited sample size of 11 starts.
Source: Ontario Tower Buzzers
Source: Ontario Tower Buzzers
Collin Murray-Boyles Continues to Shine for Raptors
Toronto Raptors forward/center Collin Murray-Boyles recorded his first career postseason double-double in Sunday's 93-89 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. The rookie big man scored 15 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, playing a pivotal role in a series-tying win. Murray-Boyles, who was 5-for-11 from the field and 5-for-7 at the charity stripe, also contributed three assists and two steals. With Toronto's starting center, Jakob Poeltl, struggling in the series, Murray-Boyles has received an opportunity to shine. He has averaged 17.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.0 steals in 25.5 minutes per game.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Deni Avdija Returns to Form Sunday
Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija was back to his best in Sunday's 114-93 Game 4 loss to the San Antonio Spurs, leading his team with 26 points. He added seven rebounds, three assists, and one steal to his stat line, finishing 8-for-14 from the field and 8-for-9 at the line. In the previous two games combined, Avdija managed only 33 points. 12 of his 19 points in Game 3 came from free throws. Although Avdija did a good job on Sunday, he couldn't prevent Portland from falling into a 3-1 hole in the series. The team will now face an elimination game on Tuesday.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Victor Wembanyama Stuffs Stat Sheet in His Return
San Antonio Spurs forward/center Victor Wembanyama (concussion) showed no rust in Sunday's Game 4 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, totaling 27 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, four steals, and seven blocks in 34 minutes. He made all eight free-throw attempts and went 9-for-17 from the field, including 1-for-4 from downtown. The 2026 NBA Defensive Player of the Year was back in action after missing one game due to a concussion. As a result of Wembanyama's return, Luke Kornet moved back to the second unit, finishing with two points, seven rebounds, and one steal in 12 minutes. Portland must slow down Wembanyama if they want to avoid a quick first-round exit, but that's easier said than done.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Austin Reaves Won't Suit Up Sunday
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (oblique) won't play on Sunday in Game 4 against the Houston Rockets, ESPN's Dave McMenamin reports. He was listed as questionable on the initial injury report and deemed a game-time decision. The Lakers hold a comfortable 3-0 series lead, so there's no reason to rush Reaves back. He sustained a left oblique strain three weeks ago. There's also no Luka Doncic (hamstring) for the Lakers, meaning Luke Kennard and Marcus Smart will continue to play leading roles in the backcourt. Both have been excellent DFS options so far in the playoffs, combining for 41.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 12.0 assists, and 4.7 steals per game.
Source: Dave McMenamin
Source: Dave McMenamin
Jonathan Isaac Likely to Remain Out Monday
Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac (knee) will likely remain sidelined on Monday against the Detroit Pistons, as the team has listed him as doubtful on the injury report. Isaac is battling a left knee sprain and last saw action six weeks ago. His absence hasn't affected the Magic, as Isaac averaged just 10.0 minutes per game during the regular season, tallying 2.6 points and 2.5 rebounds. During Isaac's absence, Jamal Cain has carved out a role in the rotation, but his fantasy impact is minimal. Across three playoff appearances, Cain has recorded 3.7 points and 1.0 rebounds in 10.3 minutes per game.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Isaiah Joe Available for Game 4 Monday
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Isaiah Joe (personal) has been removed from the injury report ahead of Monday's Game 4 against the Phoenix Suns. The three-point specialist wasn't in the lineup for Game 3 on Saturday for personal reasons. Joe averaged a career-high 11.1 points during the regular season but hasn't found his stride in the playoffs yet. In the first two games of the first-round matchup, Joe averaged 7.5 points in 17.5 minutes, making only a third of his field-goal attempts. Aaron Wiggins re-entered the rotation on Saturday and may lose his spot now that Joe is back.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Aaron Gordon Uncertain for Monday
Denver Nuggets forward/center Aaron Gordon (calf) is considered questionable for Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday. The 30-year-old is dealing with a calf injury and didn't play in Game 3. He returned to the lineup for Game 4, but logged only 23 minutes and sat out most of the fourth quarter. The injury appears to be affecting Gordon's effectiveness, as he has managed only 11.3 points per game in the series, making 40 percent of his field-goal attempts. In Game 4, Spencer Jones started in Gordon's place and is likely to get the nod again if Gordon can't play on Monday. Nevertheless, Jones won't have much DFS appeal due to his limited production.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Jordan Goodwin Considered Questionable for Monday's Elimination Game
Phoenix Suns guard/forward Jordan Goodwin (calf) will likely be listed as questionable for Monday's must-win Game 4 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic reports. Goodwin injured his left calf in the series opener, and his absence opened the door for Collin Gillespie to start. Grayson Allen's return to action also helped cover for Goodwin's absence in Game 3. In an ideal world, the Suns would want everyone available as they face playoff elimination on Monday night.
Source: Duane Rankin
Source: Duane Rankin
Reynaldo Lopez to Work on his Mechanics in Relief Role
Atlanta Braves pitcher Reynaldo Lopez is heading to the bullpen for now, according to Mark Bowman. The team is shifting Lopez to the pen so he can focus on his mechanical issues. The right-hander has walked 11 batters across his five starts and doesn't look sharp at the moment. The Braves want to keep JR Ritchie in the rotation, and Spencer Strider (oblique) is going to return soon. With that being said, Lopez is the odd man out at the moment. The right-hander is unlikely to offer any kind of reliable fantasy value while pitching out of the bullpen. It's unclear when Lopez will return to the rotation, so fantasy managers might want to look for another option.
Source: Mark Bowman
Source: Mark Bowman
Louis Varland Converts Another Save, a Must-Have Fantasy Closer?
Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Louis Varland was tasked with once again pitching in the final frame. The right-hander earned his second save of the season on Saturday and was back out there a day later. Varland was solid as he tossed a scoreless inning while striking out two batters for his third save of the season. It wouldn't be shocking to see Varland unavailable on Monday after pitching in back-to-back games. The right-hander appears to be the favorite for saves in Toronto after notching back-to-back saves. Fantasy managers looking for a source of saves should consider adding Varland right now.
Source: Sportsnet
Source: Sportsnet
Joel Embiid Ready to Return Sunday
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (abdomen) will make his 2026 postseason debut in Sunday's Game 4 against the Boston Celtics. He has been named a starter for the matchup after being upgraded from doubtful to questionable earlier on Sunday. Embiid hasn't played since April 6 and underwent an appendectomy three days later, so he might be a bit rusty as Philadelphia attempts to tie the first-round series. But it will be great to see him back in action. Adem Bona and Andre Drummond must settle for smaller roles now that Embiid is back in the lineup.
Source: Philadelphia 76ers
Source: Philadelphia 76ers
Drew Pomeranz the New Favorite for Saves in Angels Bullpen?
Los Angeles Angels relief pitcher Drew Pomeranz could be moving into a bigger role in the bullpen. On Sunday, closer Jordan Romano was designated for assignment by the organization. The right-hander was functioning as the closer for the Halos this season. He heavily struggled over the last handful of outings, so the team decided to move on. Without Romano on the roster, the Angels are likely going to go closer by committee for now. Pomeranz and Sam Bachman are likely the favorites to get the ball in high-leverage spots now. Fantasy managers should monitor this situation and scoop up whoever the Angels decide to lean on.
Source: Angels PR
Source: Angels PR
Mark Williams to Remain Out Monday
Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams (foot) will remain sidelined on Monday in Game 4 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic reports. He hasn't been part of the playoff action so far due to a foot injury. Phoenix might be eliminated on Monday, so it's possible Williams won't get another chance to return this season. In his absence, Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach will continue to share the duties at the center position. Ighodaro had his best performance of the series in Game 3, notching 15 points, three rebounds, four assists, and one block in 39 minutes. Maluach has only averaged 13.3 minutes per game and doesn't warrant attention from DFS managers.
Source: Duane Rankin
Source: Duane Rankin
Jordan Romano Gets Designated for Assignment by Angels
Los Angeles Angels relief pitcher Jordan Romano has been designated for assignment by the organization on Sunday. The right-hander has been functioning as the closer for the Halos this season. He converted four saves across five scoreless innings of work to begin the season. After that, things got rough for Romano, who has allowed nine earned runs over his past five appearances. The Angels have decided to boot him off the roster after he allowed four earned runs on Saturday. The Angels will likely go with a committee approach in the bullpen until someone steps up and runs away with the role. Sam Bachman and Drew Pomeranz are names to watch as closer options.
Source: Angels PR
Source: Angels PR
Kevin Huerter Listed as Questionable for Monday
Detroit Pistons guard/forward Kevin Huerter (hip) is listed as questionable for Game 4 against the Orlando Magic on Monday. He might have to sit out this one after injuring his left hip in Saturday's Game 3 loss. Huerter has been limited to 2.0 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 13.3 minutes per game this postseason. His absence on Monday might boost Caris LeVert's playing time. He has so far logged just 7.3 minutes per game in the first-round series. It's also possible the Pistons will reinsert Ron Holland II into the rotation.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Carlos Estevez to Face Hitters on Tuesday
Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Carlos Estevez (foot) was able to throw a two-up bullpen on Saturday and is scheduled to face hitters in Arizona on Tuesday. The right-hander has been sidelined since getting hit by a comebacker in late March. His recovery from his left foot contusion has been slow, but it sounds like Estevez is making progress. Estevez only made one appearance this season before landing on the Injured List. He allowed six earned runs on four hits across 0.1 innings of work. Lucas Erceg has been working as the closer while Estevez has been out. He has converted six of eight save chances, but holds a 5.23 ERA right now. Estevez could be back in the mix for saves once he's back with the Royals.
Source: Anne Rogers
Source: Anne Rogers
Kelly Oubre Jr. Cleared to Play Sunday
Philadelphia 76ers guard/forward Kelly Oubre Jr. (adductor) will be active for Sunday's Game 4 against the Boston Celtics. Following his 40-minute outing in Game 3, Oubre Jr. landed on the injury report with a sore right adductor. But the team has upgraded his status from questionable to available ahead of tip-off. Oubre Jr. has been Philadelphia's fourth-leading scorer in the playoffs and one of the team's best rebounders. He has averaged 13.0 points and 6.0 boards in 34.3 minutes per game.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Anthony Edwards Faces Multi-Week Absence
Minnesota Timberwolves guard/forward Anthony Edwards (knee) will be out of action for multiple weeks, ESPN's Shams Charania reports. The Timberwolves lost their star man to a knee injury in Saturday's win over Denver. He has been diagnosed with a bone bruise and hyperextension of his left knee. Tests on Edwards' knee revealed no ligament damage, which will be a relief for the player and team. However, Edwards must still sit out some action. He is expected to miss the rest of the first round and probably will be sidelined at the start of the second-round series as well, should Minnesota get past the Nuggets. Following Edwards' injury on Saturday night, Ayo Dosunmu erupted for a career-high 43 points and will continue to have additional offensive duties until Edwards returns. The team will also look to Julius Randle to be more of an offensive leader.
Source: Shams Charania
Source: Shams Charania
Jack Leiter Cleared to Start on Monday
Texas Rangers starting pitcher Jack Leiter (ankle) is ready to go and will make the start against the New York Yankees on Monday. Leiter suffered an ankle injury during his previous start versus the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday. Luckily, it was a minor issue that isn't going to cost him anytime. The right-hander has struggled lately with a 6.91 ERA, 1.81 WHIP, and a 12/9 K:BB ratio over his last three starts. His first two starts of the season went well, but he hasn't been able to find the same success since then. Leiter will be a shaky streaming option against the Yankees' tough lineup.
Source: Texas Rangers PR
Source: Texas Rangers PR
