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Luka Doncic’s injury creates a power vacuum with huge stakes for 2026 NBA Playoffs Sports can be rather ruthless when it comes to poorly timed injuries. Luka Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ only hope and a legitimate MVP candidate, strained his hamstring and is out indefinitely — very possibly missing the first round of the NBA Playoffs or more. Austin Reaves, their second primary offensive creator, went down to an oblique strain and could miss even more time. He’s trying to rush back, but that’s a scary idea in itself, too. If this was not pro basketball, everyone could just rest up and hit the ground running when healed. The Lakers do not have time for that, and they must soldier on with whatever forces they can muster.If LeBron James can somehow drag his shorthanded team out of the first round, it will be an iconic, hitherto unheard-of effort that the poets will sing about for decades. But the far more pressing fallout of these injuries is this: the Lakers’ peril creates a power vacuum in the Western Conference that other teams are ready to pounce on.What was a fairly even field in the West just got tilted hard in favor of whoever can figure out how to play the Lakers in the first round. Currently, the Lakers, Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets are separated by less than two games with only four games left. It’s anyone’s guess who will be 3, 4 and 5. The Nuggets and Rockets have both been on absolute tears, winning nine and six straight games, respectively. The Minnesota Timberwolves, the six seed, thought they had won the lottery and that the Lakers had locked up the three seed to be their first-round opponent — not so. This is all terribly confusing, so I’m going to break it down like an NBA seeding-logistic DJ making a really boring mixtape:The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed opponents each round. I repeat: The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed opponents. That means the winner of the 2-7 match always plays the winner of the 3-6 match AND the winner of the 1-8 match always plays the winner of the 4-5 match. I forget this every year, but we have to remember it this time because it’s important. Write it on your hand. Tattoo it on your back like John Wick. Schedule send an email to yourself every two hours with the subject line “The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed.” Whatever you have to do.That is critical this year, because, with the Lakers absolutely gutted but right in the thick of a Western Conference seeding battle, tiny shifts in standing can have explosive results on the bracket. I’m not sure any of this is really controllable, but here’s my read on how it could shake down.If Denver bops the Lakers down to four, the Rockets may luck out, and Oklahoma City may seriously luck out by having to play … whoever the eight seed is and then the winner of Los Angeles/Houston; a very easy duo to beat if the Lakers do not have Luka. Meanwhile, Denver is now faced with a super winnable 6-3 against the Timberwolves and a second round against the scary-but-inexperienced San Antonio Spurs.The Rockets could mess all of that up if they somehow stumble their way to the three seed, in which case the Spurs are your big winners, staring down only the winner of Houston/Minnesota while the Thunder are like “bro what do you mean I have to play the Nuggets in the second round?”Denver, meanwhile, might have four free wins left on their schedule, playing two tanking teams and then the Spurs and Thunder in their last two; seems hard, until you realize both those teams are basically locked into their seeds and will probably rest their starters. Houston has a bunch of teams that might actually be trying, and the Lakers are going to have to dig deep, no matter who they play.This is a fascinating ordeal. With everyone trying so hard to avoid that guy but seek out that other guy and making sure that this dude isn’t waiting around the corner has created so much confusion that we should probably just all agree to just… win basketball games and circle back later. But if we had to distill all of this into some deliverables, here’s what I got:1. The Timberwolves could be trouble for everyone if this breaks right — if the Wolves get the Lakers in the first round and the Spurs in the second round, they could plausibly make the Western Conference Finals. They are 2-1 against the Spurs this year and their loss was by three points. They have size and match up pretty well. Meanwhile, the Thunder may have to deal with Stephen Curry in round one and Nikola Jokic in round two. That’s less fun.2. If LeBron James can drag his team out of the first round without Luka and Reaves, he might be the GOAT — I’m not going to sit here and tell you that LeBron, Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton have a great shot at beating anyone, but if they do… I mean, come on now. That would be legendary stuff. 3. Every single team in the West’s Top 6 can win the West — this has been a hilarious, weird, unpredictable NBA season. You can talk yourself into every single team in the field to make the Finals; if the Lakers are forfeit, even the Rockets can make this happen. If the Lakers somehow make it to Luka’s return, they could pull a rabbit out of a hat.Basically, had the Lakers, Nuggets, Timberwolves and Rockets all stayed in their assigned seats, this would be reasonably simple and predictable. Now, we’re in a full-blown crisis trying to figure this out. Nothing about this will be logical, nothing about this will be boring. And as a fan of a team in the Eastern Conference, I cannot wait. #Luka #Doncics #injury #creates #power #vacuum #huge #stakes #NBA #Playoffs

Luka Doncic’s injury creates a power vacuum with huge stakes for 2026 NBA Playoffs

Sports can be rather ruthless when it comes to poorly timed injuries. Luka Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ only hope and a legitimate MVP candidate, strained his hamstring and is out indefinitely — very possibly missing the first round of the NBA Playoffs or more. Austin Reaves, their second primary offensive creator, went down to an oblique strain and could miss even more time. He’s trying to rush back, but that’s a scary idea in itself, too. If this was not pro basketball, everyone could just rest up and hit the ground running when healed. The Lakers do not have time for that, and they must soldier on with whatever forces they can muster.

If LeBron James can somehow drag his shorthanded team out of the first round, it will be an iconic, hitherto unheard-of effort that the poets will sing about for decades. But the far more pressing fallout of these injuries is this: the Lakers’ peril creates a power vacuum in the Western Conference that other teams are ready to pounce on.

What was a fairly even field in the West just got tilted hard in favor of whoever can figure out how to play the Lakers in the first round. Currently, the Lakers, Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets are separated by less than two games with only four games left. It’s anyone’s guess who will be 3, 4 and 5. The Nuggets and Rockets have both been on absolute tears, winning nine and six straight games, respectively. The Minnesota Timberwolves, the six seed, thought they had won the lottery and that the Lakers had locked up the three seed to be their first-round opponent — not so. This is all terribly confusing, so I’m going to break it down like an NBA seeding-logistic DJ making a really boring mixtape:

The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed opponents each round. I repeat: The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed opponents. That means the winner of the 2-7 match always plays the winner of the 3-6 match AND the winner of the 1-8 match always plays the winner of the 4-5 match. I forget this every year, but we have to remember it this time because it’s important. Write it on your hand. Tattoo it on your back like John Wick. Schedule send an email to yourself every two hours with the subject line “The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed.” Whatever you have to do.

That is critical this year, because, with the Lakers absolutely gutted but right in the thick of a Western Conference seeding battle, tiny shifts in standing can have explosive results on the bracket. I’m not sure any of this is really controllable, but here’s my read on how it could shake down.

If Denver bops the Lakers down to four, the Rockets may luck out, and Oklahoma City may seriously luck out by having to play … whoever the eight seed is and then the winner of Los Angeles/Houston; a very easy duo to beat if the Lakers do not have Luka. Meanwhile, Denver is now faced with a super winnable 6-3 against the Timberwolves and a second round against the scary-but-inexperienced San Antonio Spurs.

The Rockets could mess all of that up if they somehow stumble their way to the three seed, in which case the Spurs are your big winners, staring down only the winner of Houston/Minnesota while the Thunder are like “bro what do you mean I have to play the Nuggets in the second round?”

Denver, meanwhile, might have four free wins left on their schedule, playing two tanking teams and then the Spurs and Thunder in their last two; seems hard, until you realize both those teams are basically locked into their seeds and will probably rest their starters. Houston has a bunch of teams that might actually be trying, and the Lakers are going to have to dig deep, no matter who they play.

This is a fascinating ordeal. With everyone trying so hard to avoid that guy but seek out that other guy and making sure that this dude isn’t waiting around the corner has created so much confusion that we should probably just all agree to just… win basketball games and circle back later. But if we had to distill all of this into some deliverables, here’s what I got:

1. The Timberwolves could be trouble for everyone if this breaks right — if the Wolves get the Lakers in the first round and the Spurs in the second round, they could plausibly make the Western Conference Finals. They are 2-1 against the Spurs this year and their loss was by three points. They have size and match up pretty well. Meanwhile, the Thunder may have to deal with Stephen Curry in round one and Nikola Jokic in round two. That’s less fun.

2. If LeBron James can drag his team out of the first round without Luka and Reaves, he might be the GOAT — I’m not going to sit here and tell you that LeBron, Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton have a great shot at beating anyone, but if they do… I mean, come on now. That would be legendary stuff.

3. Every single team in the West’s Top 6 can win the West — this has been a hilarious, weird, unpredictable NBA season. You can talk yourself into every single team in the field to make the Finals; if the Lakers are forfeit, even the Rockets can make this happen. If the Lakers somehow make it to Luka’s return, they could pull a rabbit out of a hat.

Basically, had the Lakers, Nuggets, Timberwolves and Rockets all stayed in their assigned seats, this would be reasonably simple and predictable. Now, we’re in a full-blown crisis trying to figure this out. Nothing about this will be logical, nothing about this will be boring. And as a fan of a team in the Eastern Conference, I cannot wait.

#Luka #Doncics #injury #creates #power #vacuum #huge #stakes #NBA #Playoffs

Sports news

Sports can be rather ruthless when it comes to poorly timed injuries. Luka Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ only hope and a legitimate MVP candidate, strained his hamstring and is out indefinitely — very possibly missing the first round of the NBA Playoffs or more. Austin Reaves, their second primary offensive creator, went down to an oblique strain and could miss even more time. He’s trying to rush back, but that’s a scary idea in itself, too. If this was not pro basketball, everyone could just rest up and hit the ground running when healed. The Lakers do not have time for that, and they must soldier on with whatever forces they can muster.

If LeBron James can somehow drag his shorthanded team out of the first round, it will be an iconic, hitherto unheard-of effort that the poets will sing about for decades. But the far more pressing fallout of these injuries is this: the Lakers’ peril creates a power vacuum in the Western Conference that other teams are ready to pounce on.

What was a fairly even field in the West just got tilted hard in favor of whoever can figure out how to play the Lakers in the first round. Currently, the Lakers, Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets are separated by less than two games with only four games left. It’s anyone’s guess who will be 3, 4 and 5. The Nuggets and Rockets have both been on absolute tears, winning nine and six straight games, respectively. The Minnesota Timberwolves, the six seed, thought they had won the lottery and that the Lakers had locked up the three seed to be their first-round opponent — not so. This is all terribly confusing, so I’m going to break it down like an NBA seeding-logistic DJ making a really boring mixtape:

The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed opponents each round. I repeat: The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed opponents. That means the winner of the 2-7 match always plays the winner of the 3-6 match AND the winner of the 1-8 match always plays the winner of the 4-5 match. I forget this every year, but we have to remember it this time because it’s important. Write it on your hand. Tattoo it on your back like John Wick. Schedule send an email to yourself every two hours with the subject line “The NBA Playoffs do not re-seed.” Whatever you have to do.

That is critical this year, because, with the Lakers absolutely gutted but right in the thick of a Western Conference seeding battle, tiny shifts in standing can have explosive results on the bracket. I’m not sure any of this is really controllable, but here’s my read on how it could shake down.

If Denver bops the Lakers down to four, the Rockets may luck out, and Oklahoma City may seriously luck out by having to play … whoever the eight seed is and then the winner of Los Angeles/Houston; a very easy duo to beat if the Lakers do not have Luka. Meanwhile, Denver is now faced with a super winnable 6-3 against the Timberwolves and a second round against the scary-but-inexperienced San Antonio Spurs.

The Rockets could mess all of that up if they somehow stumble their way to the three seed, in which case the Spurs are your big winners, staring down only the winner of Houston/Minnesota while the Thunder are like “bro what do you mean I have to play the Nuggets in the second round?”

Denver, meanwhile, might have four free wins left on their schedule, playing two tanking teams and then the Spurs and Thunder in their last two; seems hard, until you realize both those teams are basically locked into their seeds and will probably rest their starters. Houston has a bunch of teams that might actually be trying, and the Lakers are going to have to dig deep, no matter who they play.

This is a fascinating ordeal. With everyone trying so hard to avoid that guy but seek out that other guy and making sure that this dude isn’t waiting around the corner has created so much confusion that we should probably just all agree to just… win basketball games and circle back later. But if we had to distill all of this into some deliverables, here’s what I got:

1. The Timberwolves could be trouble for everyone if this breaks right — if the Wolves get the Lakers in the first round and the Spurs in the second round, they could plausibly make the Western Conference Finals. They are 2-1 against the Spurs this year and their loss was by three points. They have size and match up pretty well. Meanwhile, the Thunder may have to deal with Stephen Curry in round one and Nikola Jokic in round two. That’s less fun.

2. If LeBron James can drag his team out of the first round without Luka and Reaves, he might be the GOAT — I’m not going to sit here and tell you that LeBron, Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton have a great shot at beating anyone, but if they do… I mean, come on now. That would be legendary stuff.

3. Every single team in the West’s Top 6 can win the West — this has been a hilarious, weird, unpredictable NBA season. You can talk yourself into every single team in the field to make the Finals; if the Lakers are forfeit, even the Rockets can make this happen. If the Lakers somehow make it to Luka’s return, they could pull a rabbit out of a hat.

Basically, had the Lakers, Nuggets, Timberwolves and Rockets all stayed in their assigned seats, this would be reasonably simple and predictable. Now, we’re in a full-blown crisis trying to figure this out. Nothing about this will be logical, nothing about this will be boring. And as a fan of a team in the Eastern Conference, I cannot wait.

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Favourite tag means nothing, says PSG’s Luis Enrique ahead of Liverpool clash <div id="content-body-70834883" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Paris St Germain manager Luis Enrique ​has played down suggestions his side is favourite ⁠ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarterfinal first leg at home to out-of-form Liverpool.</p><p>The English champion, fifth in the Premier League, has suffered 15 ‌defeats across all competitions this season – its most in a single campaign since losing 18 matches in 2014-15.</p><p>PSG, ‌meanwhile, leads Ligue 1 and is well placed to ‌defend its Champions League crown. “It’s difficult to talk about ⁠Liverpool,” Enrique told reporters on Tuesday. “Liverpool manager Arne Slot speaks very well about them.</p><p><b>READ</b> | <b><a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/champions-league/psg-vs-lens-postponed-may-13-lfp-champions-league-liverpool/article70788243.ece" target="_blank">PSG vs Lens postponed to May 13 as LFP prioritises Champions League and UEFA coefficient push</a></b></p><p>“My view is that it’s both the same team and a ​different team. Everyone is trying ‌to work out who the favourites are, but in this sort of match that means nothing. It will be tough for both teams.</p><p>“Showing that we’re still in the running ‌every year and playing against Liverpool is always a ​positive thing. We want to reach the semi-finals; we know how difficult it will be, but we’re ⁠very motivated.”</p><p>The tie is a repeat of last season’s round-of-16 meeting, when PSG knocked Liverpool out on penalties.</p><p>“Last year, everyone said ‌it was Liverpool, and PSG went through,” the Spaniard said.</p><p>This time, it will also see Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike come up against his former club.</p><p>The 23-year-old France international has enjoyed an impressive first season in England, scoring 17 goals and providing six assists in 43 appearances.</p><p>Ekitike spent a brief ‌spell at PSG between 2023 and 2024 but found minutes hard to ​come by in a squad featuring Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.</p><p>“After leaving here, he did very ⁠well in Germany and at Liverpool,” Luis Enrique added. “He’s now an ⁠international player and has made great progress. He was very young when he was here; he’s improved a ‌lot.”</p><p>Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz did not train with the squad on Monday due to injury, but French winger Bradley ​Barcola did following an ankle problem.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 07, 2026</p></div> #Favourite #tag #means #PSGs #Luis #Enrique #ahead #Liverpool #clash

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Deadspin | Cavs wipe out deficit, extend surge with win over Grizzlies <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28671932.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28671932.jpg" alt="NBA: Cleveland Cavaliers at Memphis Grizzlies" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 6, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley (4) handles the ball as Memphis Grizzlies forward GG Jackson (45) defends during the first quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>The Cleveland Cavaliers overcame a 17-point first-half deficit to defeat the host Memphis Grizzlies 142-126 Monday night and secure the 14th 50-win season in franchise history.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Evan Mobley led the Cavs (50-29) with 24 points, while Dennis Schroder added 22 points and 11 assists and Sam Merrell scored 21. Keon Ellis contributed 19 points and eight assists and Jarrett Allen had 13 points and nine boards for Cleveland, which won for the ninth time in 11 games.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Plagued by injuries throughout the season, Memphis (25-54) lost its fifth straight and fell for the 18th time in 20 games, but the Grizzlies tied the NBA record for most 3-pointers made in a game. Adama Bal’s 3-pointer with 1:41 remaining gave the Grizzlies their 29th trey, tying Boston (2024) and Milwaukee (2020) for the record. Memphis finished 29 of 59 (49.2%) from long range.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Olivier-Maxence Prosper paced the Grizzlies with 24 points on 10-of-12 shooting, while Dariq Whitehead and Bal came off the bench to score 20 apiece. Lucas Williamson added 17 points, five rebounds and four assists. Walter Clayton Jr. added 10 points and 11 assists.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-5"> <p>Cleveland played without Donovan Mitchell (right ankle), James Harden (personal reasons) and Max Strus (left foot) but won its seventh straight game in the series.</p> </section> <section id="section-6"> <p>Cleveland trailed 44-27 in the second quarter but bounced back to lead 68-64 at the half. Behind 10 second-period points from Ellis, the Cavaliers outscored the Grizzlies 44-28 in the quarter while shooting 63%.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>The Cavaliers extended their lead to 17 points late in the third quarter on a 3-pointer by Merrill and maintained a double-digit advantage for most of the fourth quarter. Memphis trimmed the margin to 10 points late in the fourth on Bal’s record-tying 3-pointer, but the hosts got no closer.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>With an abundance of key players out because of injuries, including season-ending injuries to star guard Ja Morant and big man Zach Edey, Memphis is limping its way to the regular-season finish line. The Grizzlies placed a lineup on the floor that included four players on 10-day contracts.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Cavs #wipe #deficit #extend #surge #win #Grizzlies

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Deadspin | Report: Fernando Mendoza not planning to attend NFL draft Fernando Mendoza participates in Indiana University’s Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Fernando Mendoza, the projected No. 1 overall pick, informed the league that he is not planning to attend the NFL draft in Pittsburgh later this month, ESPN reported on Tuesday. Per the report, the Indiana quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner wants to share the draft experience with his family in Miami. The Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the top pick in the draft on April 23-25, will be hosting Mendoza on Tuesday, per NFL Network. The last time a No. 1 overall pick — that was a quarterback — did not attend the NFL draft was in 2021, when Trevor Lawrence was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars out of Clemson. Mendoza, 22, provided the signature moment to his epic season with a dive across the goal line on fourth down in the No. 1 Hoosiers’ 27-21 victory over No. 10 Miami in the College Football Playoff national championship game on Jan. 19. Listed at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, Mendoza completed 72.0 percent of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns this past season. He also rushed for 276 yards and seven scores in his lone season with Indiana after transferring from Cal (2023-24). –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Report #Fernando #Mendoza #planning #attend #NFL #draftFernando Mendoza participates in Indiana University’s Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Fernando Mendoza, the projected No. 1 overall pick, informed the league that he is not planning to attend the NFL draft in Pittsburgh later this month, ESPN reported on Tuesday.

Per the report, the Indiana quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner wants to share the draft experience with his family in Miami.

The Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the top pick in the draft on April 23-25, will be hosting Mendoza on Tuesday, per NFL Network.


The last time a No. 1 overall pick — that was a quarterback — did not attend the NFL draft was in 2021, when Trevor Lawrence was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars out of Clemson.

Mendoza, 22, provided the signature moment to his epic season with a dive across the goal line on fourth down in the No. 1 Hoosiers’ 27-21 victory over No. 10 Miami in the College Football Playoff national championship game on Jan. 19.

Listed at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, Mendoza completed 72.0 percent of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns this past season. He also rushed for 276 yards and seven scores in his lone season with Indiana after transferring from Cal (2023-24).

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Report #Fernando #Mendoza #planning #attend #NFL #draft">Deadspin | Report: Fernando Mendoza not planning to attend NFL draft Fernando Mendoza participates in Indiana University’s Pro Day at Mellencamp Pavilion on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Fernando Mendoza, the projected No. 1 overall pick, informed the league that he is not planning to attend the NFL draft in Pittsburgh later this month, ESPN reported on Tuesday. Per the report, the Indiana quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner wants to share the draft experience with his family in Miami. The Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the top pick in the draft on April 23-25, will be hosting Mendoza on Tuesday, per NFL Network. The last time a No. 1 overall pick — that was a quarterback — did not attend the NFL draft was in 2021, when Trevor Lawrence was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars out of Clemson. Mendoza, 22, provided the signature moment to his epic season with a dive across the goal line on fourth down in the No. 1 Hoosiers’ 27-21 victory over No. 10 Miami in the College Football Playoff national championship game on Jan. 19. Listed at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, Mendoza completed 72.0 percent of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns this past season. He also rushed for 276 yards and seven scores in his lone season with Indiana after transferring from Cal (2023-24). –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Report #Fernando #Mendoza #planning #attend #NFL #draft

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said he would defend teenage star Lamine Yamal against criticism for his occasional “emotional” outbursts, ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.

The 18-year-old winger did not celebrate Barca’s late winner in the 2-1 victory at Atletico in La Liga on Saturday that took the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table.

Yamal was visibly irritated, with Spanish media reporting it was because a member of the Barcelona coaching staff admonished him from the sidelines for shooting when he could have passed.

The Spain international has also shown his anger at being substituted by Flick in the past, and the coach said he would back Yamal regardless.

“What we have to see is that Lamine is 18 years old and for me he’s an unbelievable player, you can see it when you watch the game again — what he’s doing is unbelievable,” Flick told reporters Tuesday.

“But he’s only 18, sometimes he’s angry when I substitute him. He had a situation, where he dribbled past four or five players and then shot and missed.

“Sometimes he’s frustrated he didn’t score this goal and he’s like that, he’s emotional, and this is good. I will always support him.”

Flick admitted Yamal’s shows of disapproval on the sideline sometimes create headlines that are not ideal for the team.

“He’s a fantastic player, on the right (path), we will help him develop,” the German coach said. “Not everything that he’s doing is good as it creates this noise around our team. I know everyone is looking to him because he’s a fantastic player but we also have to see that he’s 18 years old.

“Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. I said to him, no problem you can do it and I will always protect you. This is what I want for him, show everyone one the pitch how good he is and he will be one of the best, maybe the best player in the future.”

‘Fantastic’ Rashford

Yamal shone last season as he helped Barcelona to the Champions League semifinals, as close as it has come to the trophy since winning it in 2015.

UEFA Champions League 2025-26: Flick ready to defend ‘emotional’ teen Yamal against criticism Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said he would defend teenage star Lamine Yamal against criticism for his occasional “emotional” outbursts, ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.The 18-year-old winger did not celebrate Barca’s late winner in the 2-1 victory at Atletico in La Liga on Saturday that took the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table.Yamal was visibly irritated, with Spanish media reporting it was because a member of the Barcelona coaching staff admonished him from the sidelines for shooting when he could have passed.The Spain international has also shown his anger at being substituted by Flick in the past, and the coach said he would back Yamal regardless.“What we have to see is that Lamine is 18 years old and for me he’s an unbelievable player, you can see it when you watch the game again — what he’s doing is unbelievable,” Flick told reporters Tuesday.“But he’s only 18, sometimes he’s angry when I substitute him. He had a situation, where he dribbled past four or five players and then shot and missed.“Sometimes he’s frustrated he didn’t score this goal and he’s like that, he’s emotional, and this is good. I will always support him.”Flick admitted Yamal’s shows of disapproval on the sideline sometimes create headlines that are not ideal for the team.“He’s a fantastic player, on the right (path), we will help him develop,” the German coach said. “Not everything that he’s doing is good as it creates this noise around our team. I know everyone is looking to him because he’s a fantastic player but we also have to see that he’s 18 years old.“Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. I said to him, no problem you can do it and I will always protect you. This is what I want for him, show everyone one the pitch how good he is and he will be one of the best, maybe the best player in the future.”‘Fantastic’ RashfordYamal shone last season as he helped Barcelona to the Champions League semifinals, as close as it has come to the trophy since winning it in 2015. Flick added that Marcus Rashford needs to press better when Barcelona does not have possession. | Photo Credit: Reuters Flick added that Marcus Rashford needs to press better when Barcelona does not have possession. | Photo Credit: Reuters Flick said the quarterfinal tie against Diego Simeone’s Atletico would be tricky to navigate, starting at Camp Nou on Wednesday in the first leg.“Atletico is a tough team, they have the right attitude, a lot of intensity, fast players, fantastic players on the pitch. On Saturday they rested many players but the quality was very high. they love to defend, they know how to defend in a deep block, it’s not so easy to score two goals at Atletico. It’s always tough.“There will be a lot of emotions in this game because it’s two legs, we try to give our best to get a good result tomorrow.”Marcus Rashford is in line to start on the left flank in place of injured winger Raphinha. The England international, on loan from Manchester United, scored against Atletico on Saturday.Flick said he still needed to improve on his defensive work rate but acknowledged Rashford was doing well, although he has not said if he wants the club to execute the purchase option they have for the forward.“(Pressing) is also a part of our game which is very important, not just with the ball (where) everyone knows he’s fantastic,” said Flick. (Dribbling) one on one he’s doing really good, but to defend is also part of our game and part of football. But he’s doing good, he’s adapted a lot, and we need him… to help his team-mate on the flank.”Published on Apr 07, 2026 #UEFA #Champions #League #Flick #ready #defend #emotional #teen #Yamal #criticism

Flick added that Marcus Rashford needs to press better when Barcelona does not have possession. | Photo Credit: Reuters

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Flick added that Marcus Rashford needs to press better when Barcelona does not have possession. | Photo Credit: Reuters

Flick said the quarterfinal tie against Diego Simeone’s Atletico would be tricky to navigate, starting at Camp Nou on Wednesday in the first leg.

“Atletico is a tough team, they have the right attitude, a lot of intensity, fast players, fantastic players on the pitch. On Saturday they rested many players but the quality was very high. they love to defend, they know how to defend in a deep block, it’s not so easy to score two goals at Atletico. It’s always tough.

“There will be a lot of emotions in this game because it’s two legs, we try to give our best to get a good result tomorrow.”

Marcus Rashford is in line to start on the left flank in place of injured winger Raphinha. The England international, on loan from Manchester United, scored against Atletico on Saturday.

Flick said he still needed to improve on his defensive work rate but acknowledged Rashford was doing well, although he has not said if he wants the club to execute the purchase option they have for the forward.

“(Pressing) is also a part of our game which is very important, not just with the ball (where) everyone knows he’s fantastic,” said Flick. (Dribbling) one on one he’s doing really good, but to defend is also part of our game and part of football. But he’s doing good, he’s adapted a lot, and we need him… to help his team-mate on the flank.”

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#UEFA #Champions #League #Flick #ready #defend #emotional #teen #Yamal #criticism">UEFA Champions League 2025-26: Flick ready to defend ‘emotional’ teen Yamal against criticism Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said he would defend teenage star Lamine Yamal against criticism for his occasional “emotional” outbursts, ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.The 18-year-old winger did not celebrate Barca’s late winner in the 2-1 victory at Atletico in La Liga on Saturday that took the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table.Yamal was visibly irritated, with Spanish media reporting it was because a member of the Barcelona coaching staff admonished him from the sidelines for shooting when he could have passed.The Spain international has also shown his anger at being substituted by Flick in the past, and the coach said he would back Yamal regardless.“What we have to see is that Lamine is 18 years old and for me he’s an unbelievable player, you can see it when you watch the game again — what he’s doing is unbelievable,” Flick told reporters Tuesday.“But he’s only 18, sometimes he’s angry when I substitute him. He had a situation, where he dribbled past four or five players and then shot and missed.“Sometimes he’s frustrated he didn’t score this goal and he’s like that, he’s emotional, and this is good. I will always support him.”Flick admitted Yamal’s shows of disapproval on the sideline sometimes create headlines that are not ideal for the team.“He’s a fantastic player, on the right (path), we will help him develop,” the German coach said. “Not everything that he’s doing is good as it creates this noise around our team. I know everyone is looking to him because he’s a fantastic player but we also have to see that he’s 18 years old.“Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. I said to him, no problem you can do it and I will always protect you. This is what I want for him, show everyone one the pitch how good he is and he will be one of the best, maybe the best player in the future.”‘Fantastic’ RashfordYamal shone last season as he helped Barcelona to the Champions League semifinals, as close as it has come to the trophy since winning it in 2015. Flick added that Marcus Rashford needs to press better when Barcelona does not have possession. | Photo Credit: Reuters Flick added that Marcus Rashford needs to press better when Barcelona does not have possession. | Photo Credit: Reuters Flick said the quarterfinal tie against Diego Simeone’s Atletico would be tricky to navigate, starting at Camp Nou on Wednesday in the first leg.“Atletico is a tough team, they have the right attitude, a lot of intensity, fast players, fantastic players on the pitch. On Saturday they rested many players but the quality was very high. they love to defend, they know how to defend in a deep block, it’s not so easy to score two goals at Atletico. It’s always tough.“There will be a lot of emotions in this game because it’s two legs, we try to give our best to get a good result tomorrow.”Marcus Rashford is in line to start on the left flank in place of injured winger Raphinha. The England international, on loan from Manchester United, scored against Atletico on Saturday.Flick said he still needed to improve on his defensive work rate but acknowledged Rashford was doing well, although he has not said if he wants the club to execute the purchase option they have for the forward.“(Pressing) is also a part of our game which is very important, not just with the ball (where) everyone knows he’s fantastic,” said Flick. (Dribbling) one on one he’s doing really good, but to defend is also part of our game and part of football. But he’s doing good, he’s adapted a lot, and we need him… to help his team-mate on the flank.”Published on Apr 07, 2026 #UEFA #Champions #League #Flick #ready #defend #emotional #teen #Yamal #criticism

Deadspin | Jon Rahm confident he’ll play in ’27 Ryder Cup despite DPWT stalemate Apr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Jon Rahm hits his tee shot on the eighth hole during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images AUGUSTA, Ga. — John Rahm is confident his issues with the DP World Tour will be resolved in plenty of time for the Spaniard to compete for Europe in the 2027 Ryder Cup. Eight LIV Golf players agreed to drop their appeals, pay pending fines to the DPWT and play in a mandatory minimum of six events — two determined by the tour — to retain membership. Rahm has declined to pay his fines, which reportedly exceed million, and said last month that the conditions amount to “extorting players like myself.” He took a much softer stance at the Masters on Tuesday, saying that discussions remain ongoing and that he’s confident the sides will reach a resolution. “We keep talking to the DP World Tour and trying to figure out a solution that works best,” Rahm said. “I didn’t think that going the legal route and going to court was good for anybody. So I have faith in us and the DP World Tour we’re going to find a good solution for both of us.” European Ryder Cup players must be active members of the DPWT. Asked if he feels confident that he will be able to compete at Adare Manor in Ireland in September 2027, Rahm simply replied, “Yes.” In fact, Rahm is hopeful that the situation will be resolved in time for him to play in multiple events following the conclusion of the LIV Golf season in late August. He mentioned the Irish Open, the Spanish Open, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth and “maybe even the (Alfred) Dunhill” as DPWT events he is looking forward to potentially playing later this year. One of the main sticking points for Rahm is the two additional events being required of LIV players. He said previously that if he were required to only play the typical minimum of four required by the tour that he would have already signed the agreement. For now, Rahm says he doesn’t even know what his status with the DPWT is. “I truly don’t know. If I were unable right now, it doesn’t matter since I’m not planning to tee it up until after August like I have done in my career,” he said. “I do intend to continue to support the DP World Tour. I’ve been very thankful to be a member. I’ve been very thankful to support the tour and play some wonderful events. Rahm, 31, has been widely criticized for being the only one of nine LIV players in his situation not to drop his appeal and accept the DPWT’s requirements to maintain membership. Fellow European Ryder Cup star Rory McIlroy said he thought it was “a really generous deal,” and likened it to the one that Brooks Koepka agreed to in order to return to the PGA Tour. Rahm said Masters week is not the time to be talking about his situation with the DPWT, but insisted that he has already shown a willingness to seek a compromise. “We keep trying to negotiate. I have given in quite a bit in a few things — we’re going to work it out,” he said. “As of now, the DP World Tour is doing what they need to do and following the channels they need to follow, but I’m confident this will be sorted out before I tee it up in September.” –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Jon #Rahm #confident #hell #play #Ryder #Cup #DPWT #stalemateApr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Jon Rahm hits his tee shot on the eighth hole during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images

AUGUSTA, Ga. — John Rahm is confident his issues with the DP World Tour will be resolved in plenty of time for the Spaniard to compete for Europe in the 2027 Ryder Cup.

Eight LIV Golf players agreed to drop their appeals, pay pending fines to the DPWT and play in a mandatory minimum of six events — two determined by the tour — to retain membership. Rahm has declined to pay his fines, which reportedly exceed $3 million, and said last month that the conditions amount to “extorting players like myself.”

He took a much softer stance at the Masters on Tuesday, saying that discussions remain ongoing and that he’s confident the sides will reach a resolution.

“We keep talking to the DP World Tour and trying to figure out a solution that works best,” Rahm said. “I didn’t think that going the legal route and going to court was good for anybody. So I have faith in us and the DP World Tour we’re going to find a good solution for both of us.”

European Ryder Cup players must be active members of the DPWT. Asked if he feels confident that he will be able to compete at Adare Manor in Ireland in September 2027, Rahm simply replied, “Yes.”


In fact, Rahm is hopeful that the situation will be resolved in time for him to play in multiple events following the conclusion of the LIV Golf season in late August. He mentioned the Irish Open, the Spanish Open, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth and “maybe even the (Alfred) Dunhill” as DPWT events he is looking forward to potentially playing later this year.

One of the main sticking points for Rahm is the two additional events being required of LIV players. He said previously that if he were required to only play the typical minimum of four required by the tour that he would have already signed the agreement. For now, Rahm says he doesn’t even know what his status with the DPWT is.

“I truly don’t know. If I were unable right now, it doesn’t matter since I’m not planning to tee it up until after August like I have done in my career,” he said. “I do intend to continue to support the DP World Tour. I’ve been very thankful to be a member. I’ve been very thankful to support the tour and play some wonderful events.

Rahm, 31, has been widely criticized for being the only one of nine LIV players in his situation not to drop his appeal and accept the DPWT’s requirements to maintain membership. Fellow European Ryder Cup star Rory McIlroy said he thought it was “a really generous deal,” and likened it to the one that Brooks Koepka agreed to in order to return to the PGA Tour.

Rahm said Masters week is not the time to be talking about his situation with the DPWT, but insisted that he has already shown a willingness to seek a compromise.

“We keep trying to negotiate. I have given in quite a bit in a few things — we’re going to work it out,” he said. “As of now, the DP World Tour is doing what they need to do and following the channels they need to follow, but I’m confident this will be sorted out before I tee it up in September.”


–Derek Harper, Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Jon #Rahm #confident #hell #play #Ryder #Cup #DPWT #stalemate">Deadspin | Jon Rahm confident he’ll play in ’27 Ryder Cup despite DPWT stalemate Apr 6, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Jon Rahm hits his tee shot on the eighth hole during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-Imagn Images AUGUSTA, Ga. — John Rahm is confident his issues with the DP World Tour will be resolved in plenty of time for the Spaniard to compete for Europe in the 2027 Ryder Cup. Eight LIV Golf players agreed to drop their appeals, pay pending fines to the DPWT and play in a mandatory minimum of six events — two determined by the tour — to retain membership. Rahm has declined to pay his fines, which reportedly exceed million, and said last month that the conditions amount to “extorting players like myself.” He took a much softer stance at the Masters on Tuesday, saying that discussions remain ongoing and that he’s confident the sides will reach a resolution. “We keep talking to the DP World Tour and trying to figure out a solution that works best,” Rahm said. “I didn’t think that going the legal route and going to court was good for anybody. So I have faith in us and the DP World Tour we’re going to find a good solution for both of us.” European Ryder Cup players must be active members of the DPWT. Asked if he feels confident that he will be able to compete at Adare Manor in Ireland in September 2027, Rahm simply replied, “Yes.” In fact, Rahm is hopeful that the situation will be resolved in time for him to play in multiple events following the conclusion of the LIV Golf season in late August. He mentioned the Irish Open, the Spanish Open, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth and “maybe even the (Alfred) Dunhill” as DPWT events he is looking forward to potentially playing later this year. One of the main sticking points for Rahm is the two additional events being required of LIV players. He said previously that if he were required to only play the typical minimum of four required by the tour that he would have already signed the agreement. For now, Rahm says he doesn’t even know what his status with the DPWT is. “I truly don’t know. If I were unable right now, it doesn’t matter since I’m not planning to tee it up until after August like I have done in my career,” he said. “I do intend to continue to support the DP World Tour. I’ve been very thankful to be a member. I’ve been very thankful to support the tour and play some wonderful events. Rahm, 31, has been widely criticized for being the only one of nine LIV players in his situation not to drop his appeal and accept the DPWT’s requirements to maintain membership. Fellow European Ryder Cup star Rory McIlroy said he thought it was “a really generous deal,” and likened it to the one that Brooks Koepka agreed to in order to return to the PGA Tour. Rahm said Masters week is not the time to be talking about his situation with the DPWT, but insisted that he has already shown a willingness to seek a compromise. “We keep trying to negotiate. I have given in quite a bit in a few things — we’re going to work it out,” he said. “As of now, the DP World Tour is doing what they need to do and following the channels they need to follow, but I’m confident this will be sorted out before I tee it up in September.” –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Jon #Rahm #confident #hell #play #Ryder #Cup #DPWT #stalemate

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