The NBA's Friday night slate was a spectacle of strategic resting and record-breaking shooting, with 168 players sidelined by injury or illness. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets, both with starting lineups missing due to health concerns, were the most notable absences. Oklahoma City, already secured the No. 1 seed, prioritized rest for their players, while Denver, still in the running for seeding and awards, planned to play Nikola Jokic in the final game to maintain award eligibility. Victor Wembanyama, needing just 20 minutes to reach the 65-game threshold for postseason awards, was strategically pulled and re-inserted into the game, showcasing the delicate balance between rest and performance. Boston set a new record with 29 three-pointers, while Golden State prepared for the play-in tournament by starting Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Kristaps Porzingis together for the first time this season. The playoff picture became clearer, with Atlanta clinching the 11th guaranteed spot, Boston securing the No. 2 seed, and New York locking up the No. 3 spot. Cleveland, Charlotte, Orlando, and Miami's playoff positions were also finalized, setting the stage for the final games of the regular season.
