Time is running out for the Sacramento Kings (33-33), who hold a fragile grip on a spot in the Western Conference play-in tournament. After four straight losses, they desperately need a victory as they welcome the Memphis Grizzlies (43-25) to kick off a critical seven-game homestand. The Kings’ struggles continued in Friday’s 122-106 loss to the Phoenix Suns, where they allowed a whopping 24 three-pointers. Phoenix capitalized on Sacramento’s 19 turnovers, scoring a season-high 38 points off those mistakes. “I feel like it’s just our bad offense that’s leading to their great offense,” admitted Kings guard Malik Monk. “We’re trying to make the right plays, but we need to be sharper. If we don’t figure it out soon, we’ll be

The Los Angeles Lakers, having snapped their four-game losing streak, aim to build momentum as they host the injury-plagued San Antonio Spurs on Monday night. Battling numerous injuries, the Lakers (41-25) secured a 107-96 home win against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday. Luka Doncic delivered a standout performance with 33 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, supported by Austin Reaves, who added 28 points. Doncic, still recovering from recent injuries including a hyperextended knee and ankle troubles, expressed optimism about his improving physical condition: “I’m getting there and every day I’m feeling better.” The Lakers continue to cope with key absences. LeBron James (groin) missed his fourth consecutive game, while Rui Hachimura (knee) sat out his ninth straight contest. Both

The red-hot Houston Rockets, winners of six straight games, are set to capitalize on facing an undermanned Philadelphia 76ers squad on Monday night. Houston (43-25) has surged into a tie with the Denver Nuggets for the second seed in the competitive Western Conference standings, positioning themselves as legitimate contenders for the NBA Championship. Leading Houston’s playoff-bound momentum is the dynamic duo of Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. Green, the team’s NBA scoring leader averaging 21.3 points per game, dropped 28 points in their recent win over the Bulls. Sengun, an emerging NBA rebounds leader candidate, posted a dominant 24-point, 15-rebound performance. Rockets coach Ime Udoka praised their versatility, emphasizing how crucial balanced scoring from players like Dillon Brooks and Jabari

The Philadelphia Union (3-0-0) look to extend their unbeaten streak on Sunday afternoon when they host Nashville SC (1-1-1). Despite offseason changes, including the departure of longtime manager Jim Curtin, the Union have quickly found their footing under new coach Bradley Carnell, setting an ambitious early-season tone. Carnell highlighted his team’s growing confidence: Philadelphia secured a late 2-0 victory against Portland in their previous match, thanks to goals from Tai Baribo and new signing Jovan Lukic, who scored his first MLS goal. Nashville SC (1-1-1) enters the match buoyed by their recent 2-0 home victory over the Portland Timbers. B.J. Callaghan’s side looks to build momentum after an inconsistent start, with hopes newly acquired forward addition Qasem can energize their