Sports
NBA Power Rankings After the 2026 Trade Deadline: Contenders, Risers, and Betting Value
The NBA’s 2026 trade deadline (February 5) not only affected the shuffling of bench units but also the way teams should be priced as they head into the stretch. At this time of the season, power rankings are most useful if they combine current results with something that the betting public cares about even more: continuity, availability, and how fast new pieces translate to win probability in March and April.
This post-deadline snapshot is standings and trade-aware. It’s not a hype list. It’s a read on where the league is at this moment, where the market is ahead of reality and where the next pricing inefficiencies are likely to be.
If you were to bet the title today
1) Oklahoma City Thunder
OKC is at the top of that because of its profile, record, balance and the rare fact that it did not need a headline trade to be able to claim elite status. From a gambling perspective, that is important. Continuity often manifests itself in the form of more consistent week-to-week performance, fewer unexplained losses and fewer swings in late-game identity. You may not always be able to find value in their spreads, but you’re less likely to get burned by sudden, role-driven volatility.
2) Detroit Pistons
Detroit being the leader of the East is not a fun storyline anymore, it is a data point. Bettors shouldn’t argue about whether they “belong” so much as whether their current level belongs to playoff pace and scouting. Until they are proven otherwise, they are top tier on results and real contenders in NBA projections according to expert analysis. If you’re hunting edges, it’s almost never by fading them broadly; it’s to be selective when the schedule is brutal, or with opponent style forcing Detroit into uncomfortable half-court possessions.
3) San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio’s top position is indicative of a season that has been held in multiple test windows. The futures angle is seeding: If the Spurs can remain toward the top of the West and not have a nightmare early matchup, their course is materially cleaner. When you’re pricing contenders, “route difficulty” tends to be undervalued compared with raw talent.
“Futures movers”: the deadline deals that changed the price of the league
Cleveland Cavaliers: the ceiling swing
Cleveland’s acquisition of James Harden as a replacement for Darius Garland is the obvious “win now” move on the deadline. When it comes to betting, this is the classic point where futures markets can compress much more quickly than on-court fit is proven. James Harden’s ability to create shots in any late-game situation helps the team and provides for proper half-court organization. Both are important attributes that demonstrate their worth in a seven-game series. Nevertheless, he poses risks when incorporated at an early stage. Observe closing lineups and performance in the final five minutes; that’s where Cleveland’s new variants either stabilise or remain noisy.
Washington Wizards: Headline trade, longer stabilised
Washington acquiring Anthony Davis is the sort of move that can be immediately over-interpreted. Star power can help raise the bar, but it can take time for a roster to find role clarity and consistent availability. Markets often set the price on the “name” before they set the price on the “fit.” Early in the game, the sharper approach is to monitor how Washington close games and what defensive coverages they can really sustain and whether the offense is coherent and not just talented.
Trap line alert”: the role of reputation and recency in misprices
Houston Rockets
A good record may attract bettors to pay a premium. When a team gets priced like a finished product, that is the real danger, margin for error gets stripped and spreads inflate quickly. When perception is faster than repeatability, value is found on the other side, especially against disciplined players who have control of tempo.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Some days, Minnesota is superb, other days it is just ordinary. This is the definition for a team that can be mis-priced when the market takes the last result too seriously. More than rank, matchup handicapping is what counts here.
Los Angeles Lakers
Brand and star power have an impact on pricing. The practical benefit is that one gets parts available and stable in the rotation after the break. In case the minutes and closing roles are consistent, it becomes dangerous. If not, they’re the sort of team that one can be guilty of overvaluing on name alone.
Chemistry tax: the idea behind post-deadline value
After some big trades, there is typically an unseen cost to the trade: roles are changed, late-game sets are changed, and defensive coverages need reps. Markets can overreact in both directions, and price teams as immediately enhanced, or overly harshly for early growing pains.
The post-deadline power picture is clearer at the top: OKC, Detroit, and San Antonio have earned premier status in results and shape. The biggest impact of the deadline was an increase (or complication) on the ceiling for a handful of teams, and that’s where bettors should be looking for the most pricing friction in the coming weeks.
The international break gives way to a packed Easter weekend of football across Europe, headlined by FA Cup quarter-final drama in England and high-stakes league action in Spain, Italy and France. With titles, European places and silverware all on the line, the margin for error is rapidly disappearing.
FA Cup: Heavyweights Collide in Quarter Finals
Saturday’s action is headlined by a blockbuster at 1:45 PM as Man City face Liverpool in a clash between two of England’s dominant forces. City arrive with momentum after their Carabao Cup triumph, while Liverpool will be eager to respond after a recent dip in form.
At 6:15 PM, Chelsea host Port Vale in a tie that carries enormous pressure for the Blues. Chelsea’s season has unravelled in recent weeks, while Port Vale continue to embrace their giant-killing run.
The quarter-finals continue at 8:00 PM as Southampton face Arsenal under the lights. Arsenal will be desperate to respond after their cup final disappointment, while Southampton will look to capitalise on home advantage.
Sunday rounds off the action at 5:30 PM with West Ham vs Leeds in an all-Premier League encounter, with both sides seeking momentum in an evenly matched contest.
All FA matches air live on SS Premier League (DStv Ch. 203, GOtv Ch. 65).
La Liga: Title Race Intensifies, Madrid Derby Looms
Saturday begins at 3:15 PM with Real Madrid travelling to Mallorca, aiming to maintain pressure at the top. The headline fixture follows at 8:00 PM as Atletico Madrid host Barcelona in a crucial meeting that could shape both the title race and the battle for the top four.
Sunday’s action features Getafe vs Athletic Club at 1:00 PM and Valencia vs Celta Vigo at 3:15 PM, before Monday night sees Girona take on Villarreal at 8:00 PM, with Villarreal looking to protect their position in third. La Liga matches air live on SS La Liga (DStv Ch. 204, GOtv Ch. 62).
Serie A: Pressure Mounts on Inter as Rivals Close In
Sunday night’s standout fixture comes at 7:45 PM as Inter host Roma, with the league leaders seeking to halt a dip in form.
Monday delivers a full schedule, beginning at 11:30 AM with Udinese vs Como, as the in-form visitors look to extend their remarkable run. Juventus face Genoa at 5:00 PM under mounting pressure, before Napoli host AC Milan at 7:45 PM in a decisive clash between Inter’s closest challengers. Serie A fixtures will be shown on SS Africa 2 (DStv Ch. 208, GOtv Ch. 64).
Ligue 1: Title Chase Heats Up Across France
Friday night opens at 7:45 PM with PSG hosting Toulouse, as the leaders balance domestic priorities with looming European commitments.
Saturday’s headline fixture at 8:05 PM sees Lille take on Lens in a high-stakes northern derby with title implications.
Sunday features Angers vs Lyon at 2:00 PM, before Monaco host Marseille at 7:45 PM in a crucial encounter that could reshape the race for Champions League qualification.
Ligue 1 matches air on SS Football (DStv Ch. 205, GOtv Ch. 61), with selected fixtures on SS Africa 1 (DStv Ch. 207, GOtv Ch. 63).
Weekend Highlights
FA Cup
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Man City vs Liverpool — Sat, 1:45 PM
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Chelsea vs Port Vale — Sat, 6:15 PM
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Southampton vs Arsenal — Sat, 8:00 PM
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West Ham vs Leeds — Sun, 5:30 PM
La Liga
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Mallorca vs Real Madrid — Sat, 3:15 PM
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Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona — Sat, 8:00 PM
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Getafe vs Athletic Club — Sun, 1:00 PM
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Valencia vs Celta Vigo — Sun, 3:15 PM
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Girona vs Villarreal — Mon, 8:00 PM
Serie A
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Inter vs Roma — Sun, 7:45 PM
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Udinese vs Como — Mon, 11:30 AM
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Juventus vs Genoa — Mon, 5:00 PM
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Napoli vs AC Milan — Mon, 7:45 PM
Ligue 1
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PSG vs Toulouse — Fri, 7:45 PM
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Lille vs Lens — Sat, 8:05 PM
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Angers vs Lyon — Sun, 2:00 PM
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Monaco vs Marseille — Sun, 7:45 PM
Watch Every Game
Catch all the action live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv. Matches are also available via DStv Stream and GOtv Stream.
Manage or upgrade your subscription via the MyDStv or MyGOtv apps, visit www.dstv.com or www.gotvafrica.com, or dial *288# to stay connected.
As anticipation builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, African football continues to command global attention with a new generation of stars and established leaders ready to shine on the biggest stage. The World Cup 2026 African Players Watchlist highlights a blend of elite talent and rising influence, with key players expected to carry their nations deep into the tournament.
Leading the spotlight is Mohamed Salah, whose consistency, speed, and goal-scoring ability remain crucial for Egypt’s ambitions. Salah’s experience in high-pressure matches and his leadership role make him one of Africa’s most dependable performers heading into the tournament.
Nigeria’s hopes will heavily rely on Victor Osimhen, a striker known for his explosive pace, aerial strength, and clinical finishing. Osimhen has developed into one of Europe’s most feared forwards, and his ability to deliver in decisive moments could be key for the Super Eagles on the global stage. From Cameroon, Bryan Mbeumo brings versatility and attacking intelligence. His ability to operate across the front line, combined with his creativity and work rate, makes him a valuable asset in breaking down organized defenses.
Meanwhile, Hannibal Mejbri represents the new wave of African midfield talent. Known for his energy, technical skill, and vision, Mejbri adds dynamism and unpredictability to Tunisia’s setup, especially in high-tempo matches. These players reflect the tactical diversity and growing strength of African football. From attacking firepower to midfield creativity, their performances will shape not only their national teams’ success but also the overall competitiveness of African nations at the World Cup.
Tracking top-performing players and key moments gives you a sharper edge when breaking down fixtures and spotting winning opportunities. Easywin Nigeria makes it simple to turn that insight into real value, offering competitive odds, live match updates, fast payout systems, instant withdrawal options, cashback rewards, and a rewarding double deposit offer that keeps you in control.
Step into the excitement of World Cup 2026 with Easywin Nigeria. Stay ahead with smart predictions, explore upcoming matches, and unlock cashback benefits alongside the double deposit offer, all on a secure and seamless platform built for a winning experience. The World Cup 2026 African Players Watchlist showcases the continent’s growing influence in global football. With stars like Salah, Osimhen, Mbeumo, and Mejbri leading the charge, Africa is set to deliver excitement, quality, and unforgettable moments on football’s biggest stage.
By Dipo Olowookere
Italian professional manager and former player, Roberto De Zerbi, has returned to England to serve as the new Head Coach of Tottenham Hotspur’s football team.
He will fight to ensure the London team does not play in the Championship next season, as the team currently sits one point from relegation.
The former Brighton manager is taking over from Igor Tudor, who parted ways with Tottenham a few days ago.
In a statement, Spurs said the appointment of De Zerbi is subject to a work permit.
The club’s Sporting Director, Mr Johan Lange, said, “Roberto was our number one target for the summer and we are very pleased to be able to bring him in now.
“He is one of the most creative and forward-thinking coaches in world football, and brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest level, including in the Premier League.”
Reacting to his choice for the job, De Zerbi said, “I am delighted to be joining this fantastic football club, which is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the world.
“In all my discussions with the club’s leadership, their ambition for the future has been clear – to build a team capable of reaching great achievements, and to do that playing a style of football that excites and inspires our supporters. I am here because I believe in that ambition and have signed a long-term contract to give everything to deliver it.
“Our short-term priority is to climb the Premier League table, which will be the complete focus until the final whistle of the last game of the season. I’m looking forward to getting out on the training pitch and working with these players to achieve that.”
De Zerbi earned almost 300 appearances in his playing career across 15 years. He began coaching in his native Italy and in June 2018, joined Serie A side Sassuolo, earning recognition for his exciting, attack-minded and possession-based approach.
He took charge of Shakhtar Donetsk in May 2021, leading them to the UEFA Champions League group stage and the Ukrainian Super Cup – his first piece of silverware as a coach.
Heading to East Sussex to join Brighton & Hove Albion in September 2022, De Zerbi helped secure the Seagulls’ highest-ever Premier League finish in his debut season, earning European qualification for the first time in the club’s history.
In his most recent role at Marseille, the Ligue 1 side finished as runners-up in 2024/25, earning a spot in the UEFA Champions League.
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