As NBA trade rumors swirl, Kevin Durant remains a focal point, especially after a disappointing season where the Phoenix Suns missed the playoffs. With Durant's impressive averages of 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, the Suns are looking to rebuild, making a trade increasingly likely. The Toronto Raptors have emerged as serious contenders for Durant's services, willing to part with key players like RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to secure his talents.

This interest indicates Toronto's ambition to acquire a transformative player to elevate their roster, particularly pairing Durant with budding stars like Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. Such a move could potentially turn the Raptors into immediate playoff contenders, leveraging Durant’s legendary scoring ability.

In a surprising turn, the New York Knicks have fired coach Tom Thibodeau following a successful season, despite the team reaching the conference finals. This decision raises questions about the expectations placed on coaches in the modern NBA, where winning the championship seems to be the only acceptable outcome. Thibodeau's dismissal comes amid speculation about potential replacements and whether the organization feels that they advanced in the playoffs due to the coach's strategies or in spite of them.

The Raptors also find themselves in a complex situation, with discussions around potential trades involving players like RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley. Barrett’s contract, while more expensive, has fewer years left, making him a more attractive trade asset. There’s a growing belief that big trades can reshape teams’ futures, but injuries and matchups will still play crucial roles in the playoff picture.

Darko Rajakovic concluded his second season as head coach of the Toronto Raptors, reflecting on performance and player development. Despite leading the team to a 30-52 record, he emphasizes the importance of rebuilding and improving through hard work and player habits. Rajakovic underscores that this season was about laying the groundwork for future success, focusing on the young core like Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett. Injuries limited their playtime together but significant positives emerged, including a franchise record in assists.

Defensively, the Raptors ranked fifth in the league during the latter part of the season, showcasing Rajakovic's ability to adapt and create a strong culture. His commitment extends beyond the court as he and his wife donate $70,000 to children's hospitals, reinforcing the values he aims to instill in his team. Rajakovic stresses the importance of doubling down on development and building on this foundation moving forward.

Today's NBA DFS picks are dominated by must-have players as the regular season winds down and teams jockey for playoff positioning. Nikola Jokic stands out, boasting an impressive average of over a 40-point triple-double in his last six games, making him a top priority for lineups. Shaedon Sharpe is also highlighted, especially with Deni Avdija likely out, allowing Sharpe to take on a more significant scoring role against the Utah Jazz, who are the worst in terms of defense against shooting guards. James Harden is another key player to consider, coming off a strong performance and facing a Houston team that should keep the game competitive.

For value picks, Kyle Anderson and Jalen Smith offer affordable options with high upside, particularly if their respective teams are missing key players. Kris Murray emerges as one of the best value plays, given Portland's injury woes, which should ensure him plenty of minutes. Players like Immanuel Quickley and Keyonte George are also poised to shine with favorable matchups, especially as injuries pile up on other teams.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has secured a monumental 14-year, $500 million extension with the Toronto Blue Jays, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in sports history. This contract, set to begin next season, will net him $35.1 million annually without any opt-outs or deferrals, solidifying his status as a franchise cornerstone.

Guerrero Jr. is poised to stay in Toronto for the remainder of his career, joining the ranks of the city’s elite athletes. He will trail only Scottie Barnes in annual earnings among Toronto athletes, as Barnes signed a five-year deal with the Raptors worth up to $270 million. Comparatively, Guerrero Jr. will earn much more than fellow Blue Jays player George Springer, whose six-year contract is valued at $150 million. As he embarks on this new chapter, the Blue Jays hope Guerrero Jr. can lead them to postseason success.