Lakers plan to continue utilizing their superior depth against Heat in NBA Finals

The Atlanta Hawks are considered one of the teams most motivated to make a trade ahead of next month’s deadlines with Trae Young and Jalen Johnson considered their only untouchable players, sources tell Jake Fischer of Sports Betting News.

Dejounte Murray is one of the more prominent players on the trade market as his fit with Young hasn’t gone as well as the Hawks anticipated.

The Hawks owe their 2025 first round pick to the San Antonio Spurs, which could lead them to punt on this season in hopes of improving ahead of next season when they don’t control their pick.

Because of Atlanta’s struggles, they’re also not considered a serious potential destination for Pascal Siakam, who will be a free agent this summer.

Houston Rockets wing Amen Thompson will undergo an MRI on his injured left ankle. Thompson was spotted leaving the arena in a walking boot and on crutches following the Rockets blowout victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.

Thompson was injured when he drove for a pullup jumper and landed on Karlo Matkovic’s foot. Postgame, Houston head coach Ime Udoka said he had no update on Thompson’s status.

The Rockets have started Thompson as a versatile playmaker who can defend all five positions. He’s alternated between starting at the power forward spot, or in place of the injury Fred VanVleet at point guard. The second-year player has had a breakout season, averaging 14.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks per game.