Cooper Flagg's potential fits in the NBA are a hot topic, with intriguing options ranging from the Washington Wizards to the San Antonio Spurs. The Wizards, despite a drop in lottery odds after a recent win, show promise with the budding talent of Bub Carrington. Meanwhile, Portland's sneaky fun season raises questions about their future, especially if they secure a top pick to select a player like Denny Avdija.

The Houston Rockets stand out as a team that could significantly benefit from Flagg's talents, potentially making for a comedic twist if they land the top spot in the draft. The Philadelphia 76ers also offer a compelling scenario, with Flagg being a savior for a franchise looking to rebound after a tough season.

Ultimately, a move to the Spurs would position Flagg alongside Victor Wembanyama, creating a formidable duo in the league. As the lottery approaches, the dynamics around Flagg's future only deepen, with fans eagerly debating which outcome would be most favorable.

Amen Thompson has emerged as a leading candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, showcasing exceptional defensive skills. Opponents shoot significantly worse when he’s on them, with a 9.7% decrease in accuracy within ten feet. Thompson’s defensive prowess includes blocking shots, contesting against stars like Stephen Curry, and ranking highly in matchup difficulty. In comparison, Evan Mobley, while a solid defender, hasn’t demonstrated the same elite impact. The Houston Rockets, buoyed by Thompson's defense, have surprisingly ranked in the top four defensively this season.

Thompson’s versatility allows him to defend multiple positions, including elite guards and bigger forwards, making him a crucial asset on both ends of the floor. His performance has overshadowed other candidates, such as Draymond Green and Jaren Jackson Jr. Thompson's defensive rating of 107 when on the floor surpasses those of his competitors. As the season progresses, votes will reflect his significant contributions to the Rockets' success.

With the conclusion of the NBA fantasy basketball season around the corner, Thursday's five-game slate offers a final opportunity for savvy fantasy managers to make strategic streaming decisions. Notably, the New York Knicks are opting to rest key players including Josh Hart and Mitchell Robinson, which opens up significant playing time for other players on the roster. This provides a prime opportunity for Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns to shine, assuming they are also not rested themselves.

Injuries are shaping up to be a crucial factor as well; Donovan Mitchell's ankle issue raises questions about his availability, while the Memphis Grizzlies fight to secure playoff positioning. The Bucks, on the other hand, are still in contention, indicating that their stars will likely see ample minutes. Players like Juice McBride and Kevin Porter Jr. are valuable pickups for those looking to capitalize on matchups.

The Houston Rockets are solidifying their position as a top contender in the Western Conference, currently boasting a 20-7 record. Following a rough start, they have turned things around, greatly aided by standout performances, particularly on defense. Their net rating is stellar, being seventh in the league, thanks to key victories over formidable opponents such as the Bucks and Warriors. The defensive prowess exhibited by Amen Thompson has put him in the conversation for Defensive Player of the Year, as he has successfully contained elite scorers like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Stephen Curry.

Houston's defense stands out with its size and athleticism, especially in contrast to teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder. Key players like Dillon Brooks and Jabari Smith Jr. complement Thompson, creating a versatile defensive unit. The Rockets' two-big lineup, featuring Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun, has proven effective, ranking first in net rating among two-man lineups. This combination allows them to dominate on both ends of the floor, raising questions about their postseason potential against smaller, more agile teams.