Rumors are swirling around the Phoenix Suns as they look to make a significant shake-up in their roster, primarily revolving around Kevin Durant. With the Suns aiming to escape the costly second apron status, reports indicate that Durant could be traded swiftly, alongside players like Grayson Allen and Royce O'Neale. Their current payroll exceeds $257 million, which necessitates a trimming of salaries to avoid hefty penalties.

Durant, averaging 26.6 points last season, commands a massive salary of over $54 million. Meanwhile, Allen and O'Neale are set to earn $16.875 million and $10.125 million, respectively. By offloading these contracts, the Suns could lower their tax bill significantly and regain essential roster flexibility, including access to the taxpayer midlevel exception and the ability to trade future first-round picks.

The Minnesota Timberwolves pulled off a thrilling 140-139 victory over the Denver Nuggets, bolstered by Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s stellar performance, including 26 points and the winning free throws. His elevated role came with the absence of Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo, making him an appealing option for fantasy managers.

In other notable performances, Ryan Rollins shined for the Milwaukee Bucks, notching a career-high 23 points as a starter. Julian Champagnie stepped up for the San Antonio Spurs, while Grayson Allen filled in effectively for the Suns. Mitchell Robinson of the Knicks also had a strong showing, and Ja'Kobe Walter impressed for the Raptors in a losing effort.

In a thrilling encounter, the Minnesota Timberwolves edged out the Denver Nuggets 140-139 in double overtime, marking a pivotal moment in the Western Conference standings. Nickeil Alexander-Walker delivered an impressive performance, scoring 26 points and dishing out eight assists while taking advantage of increased playing time due to suspensions. With this victory, Minnesota is now locked in a tie for the sixth seed in the West, crucial as they aim to avoid the play-in tournament.

Other standout players included Ryan Rollins of the Milwaukee Bucks, who put up 23 points and five assists in a career-best showing, and Julian Champagnie, who capitalized on teammate Jeremy Sochan's absence with 19 points for the Spurs. Grayson Allen also made his mark for the Suns with 23 points of his own, while Mitchell Robinson excelled for the Knicks with a double-double against the Cavaliers. Each of these players represents enticing options for fantasy managers looking to bolster their rosters in the final stretch of the season.

With the Duke Blue Devils' recent 89-66 win over Baylor, players Tyus Jones and Grayson Allen expressed confidence in their alma mater's potential for a national championship as they advance to face Arizona in the Sweet 16 on Thursday. Jones, the 2015 Final Four MVP, praised Duke's blend of talent, teamwork, and defensive prowess, stating they possess the characteristics essential for success in the tournament. He noted the importance of team unity and anticipation of celebrating with his teammate, Royce O'Neale, a Baylor alum, after the match.

Allen echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on his own championship experiences and pointing to the current Duke team’s competitive edge. Key player Cooper Flagg, projected as a top pick in the upcoming NBA draft, continues to impress after recovering from an ankle injury, contributing significantly to Duke's success this season. Both former Duke stars are hopeful that the team, now led by head coach Jon Scheyer, can bring home another title.