Kevin Huerter, Chicago Bulls
March 2025
After struggling initially with his new team, Huerter has found his rhythm, averaging 14.6 points over his last seven games.
Acquired from Sacramento at the trade deadline, Huerter has improved his efficiency and defensive contributions, posting a +13.6 plus-minus rating during this stretch.
Sandro Mamukelashvili, San Antonio Spurs
March 2025
Mamukelashvili erupted for a career-high 34 points in just 19 minutes, making NBA history for the most points scored in a game with under 20 minutes played since 1951-52.
Coming off the bench, he shot an incredible 13-of-14 from the field, including a perfect 7-for-7 from three-point range. The Spurs defeated the Knicks 120-105, and Mamukelashvili’s performance was hyped by friend and rapper Flavor Flav, who celebrated his birthday courtside.
Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors), Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
March 2025
Draymond Green played a key role in Golden State’s 104-93 victory over Milwaukee, holding Giannis Antetokounmpo to 20 points on 5-for-16 shooting. His defensive performance, which included four blocks and two steals, bolstered his case for a second NBA Defensive Player of the Year award.
Green’s smothering defense forced Antetokounmpo into his worst shooting game in two seasons, with Giannis going 0-for-7 when directly contested by Green. The Bucks’ 93 points marked their season low. With Victor Wembanyama out for the season, Green sees an opportunity to win his second DPOY award.
Quentin Grimes, Philadelphia 76ers
March 2025
Grimes delivered a career-best 46-point performance, setting a franchise record for points, rebounds, and 3-pointers in a game.
Acquired from Dallas in February, Grimes has averaged 21.6 PPG since securing a rotation spot, making a strong case for a long-term role in Philadelphia’s core.
Cam Thomas, Brooklyn Nets
March 2025
Thomas has been an elite scorer for the Nets, averaging a career-high 24.0 points per game despite limited appearances this season.
In just 24 games, Thomas has showcased his scoring ability, shooting 44.3% from the field and 88.3% from the free-throw line, including a 32-point game against the Bulls earlier this season.
Josh Giddey, Chicago Bulls
March 2025
Giddey, who has been having a career-best season, is expected to miss the upcoming game after suffering an ankle injury.
The Bulls will rely more on Coby White, Kevin Huerter, and Nikola Vučević in Giddey’s absence, as he has been a key playmaker averaging 20.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.8 assists over his last 15 games.
Coby White, Chicago Bulls
March 2025
White has been on a scoring tear, averaging 29.0 points over his last five games, including a career-high 44-point performance.
White’s recent form has helped the Bulls climb the standings as they chase the No. 9 seed, staying within 2.5 games of the Miami Heat.
Bilal Coulibaly, Washington Wizards
March 2025
Coulibaly is expected to miss 4-6 weeks with a hamstring injury, potentially sidelining him for the remainder of the season.
The 20-year-old guard suffered the injury against the Raptors, and with Washington’s season finale in 4.5 weeks, he may not return this season. He has averaged 12.3 points and 3.4 assists in his second year.
Houston Rockets
March 2025
After a rough February and a 5-10 slump, the Rockets have bounced back with four straight wins, putting them just one game behind the No. 2 seed in the West.
Houston’s defense has returned to elite form, posting a league-best 104.7 defensive rating since March 5, while their scoring has surged back to 115.8 PPG. The return of Fred VanVleet further boosts their postseason push.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
March 2025
Gilgeous-Alexander highlighted OKC’s improvement from last season, emphasizing that clinching earlier than in 2024 reflects their growth.
The Thunder, the second team to secure a playoff spot this season, have steadily improved, showing resilience against top teams like the Celtics and Nuggets.