×
Shreyas Iyer has told me not to take pressure; it’s his job as captain to do that: Nehal Wadhera  Nehal Wadhera was deep in conversation with Shreyas Iyer at the Wankhede Stadium ahead of Punjab Kings’ IPL clash against Mumbai Indians. The youngster, who has struggled for form with just 27 runs in three innings, was keen to pick his captain’s brain on rediscovering his rhythm.Shreyas, known for his calm demeanour, listened patiently before offering a simple yet impactful piece of advice. “He told me to play without any pressure and said that, as captain, it’s his job to take the pressure,” Wadhera said.“That tells you a lot about him as a leader. He enjoys the pressure, and you can see that in his performances and his batting,” he added.Preview | Under-fire Mumbai Indians to be tested by high-flying Punjab Kings“It’s a big thing for a captain to say this to a player, that you just play your game, don’t worry about the results as I’m here to handle the pressure and take the team over the line. These are the kind of conversations we have in the dressing room.”Wadhera also highlighted the positive environment fostered by head coach Ricky Ponting, crediting him for instilling confidence in the squad.“He just speaks positively. He doesn’t have any negative words in his dictionary,” Wadhera said.“Even if a player gets out, he focuses on the positives. A batter doesn’t fear failure because he knows he has the backing of the coach.”With strong support from both captain and coach, Wadhera believes the environment within the Punjab Kings camp allows players the freedom to express themselves.Published on Apr 15, 2026  #Shreyas #Iyer #told #pressure #job #captain #Nehal #Wadhera

Shreyas Iyer has told me not to take pressure; it’s his job as captain to do that: Nehal Wadhera

Nehal Wadhera was deep in conversation with Shreyas Iyer at the Wankhede Stadium ahead of Punjab Kings’ IPL clash against Mumbai Indians. 

The youngster, who has struggled for form with just 27 runs in three innings, was keen to pick his captain’s brain on rediscovering his rhythm.

Shreyas, known for his calm demeanour, listened patiently before offering a simple yet impactful piece of advice. “He told me to play without any pressure and said that, as captain, it’s his job to take the pressure,” Wadhera said.

“That tells you a lot about him as a leader. He enjoys the pressure, and you can see that in his performances and his batting,” he added.

Preview | Under-fire Mumbai Indians to be tested by high-flying Punjab Kings

“It’s a big thing for a captain to say this to a player, that you just play your game, don’t worry about the results as I’m here to handle the pressure and take the team over the line. These are the kind of conversations we have in the dressing room.”

Wadhera also highlighted the positive environment fostered by head coach Ricky Ponting, crediting him for instilling confidence in the squad.

“He just speaks positively. He doesn’t have any negative words in his dictionary,” Wadhera said.

“Even if a player gets out, he focuses on the positives. A batter doesn’t fear failure because he knows he has the backing of the coach.”

With strong support from both captain and coach, Wadhera believes the environment within the Punjab Kings camp allows players the freedom to express themselves.

Published on Apr 15, 2026

#Shreyas #Iyer #told #pressure #job #captain #Nehal #Wadhera

Nehal Wadhera was deep in conversation with Shreyas Iyer at the Wankhede Stadium ahead of Punjab Kings’ IPL clash against Mumbai Indians. 

The youngster, who has struggled for form with just 27 runs in three innings, was keen to pick his captain’s brain on rediscovering his rhythm.

Shreyas, known for his calm demeanour, listened patiently before offering a simple yet impactful piece of advice. “He told me to play without any pressure and said that, as captain, it’s his job to take the pressure,” Wadhera said.

“That tells you a lot about him as a leader. He enjoys the pressure, and you can see that in his performances and his batting,” he added.

Preview | Under-fire Mumbai Indians to be tested by high-flying Punjab Kings

“It’s a big thing for a captain to say this to a player, that you just play your game, don’t worry about the results as I’m here to handle the pressure and take the team over the line. These are the kind of conversations we have in the dressing room.”

Wadhera also highlighted the positive environment fostered by head coach Ricky Ponting, crediting him for instilling confidence in the squad.

“He just speaks positively. He doesn’t have any negative words in his dictionary,” Wadhera said.

“Even if a player gets out, he focuses on the positives. A batter doesn’t fear failure because he knows he has the backing of the coach.”

With strong support from both captain and coach, Wadhera believes the environment within the Punjab Kings camp allows players the freedom to express themselves.

Published on Apr 15, 2026

Source link
#Shreyas #Iyer #told #pressure #job #captain #Nehal #Wadhera

Previous post

NBA Play-In Picks: Best Bets for Warriors vs Clippers and Magic vs 76ers | Deadspin.com <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-0 py-0 pb-4 undefined"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-1200/1776257851873" alt="Jan 30, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic guard Desmond Bane (3) and center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) react after basket against the Toronto Raptors in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Jan 30, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic guard Desmond Bane (3) and center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) react after basket against the Toronto Raptors in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Either Stephen Curry or Kawhi Leonard will miss the playoff this season while a whole team of Portland Trail Blazers will be part of the festivities.</p><p>That tells the story of <a href="https://deadspin.com/how-three-tanking-teams-could-light-up-the-nba-play-in-tournament/" target="_blank">what underachievers the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers are</a> entering their Western Conference play-in game on Wednesday night in Los Angeles. The season is over for the losing team while the winner gets another chance to make the playoffs on Friday.</p><p>The Eastern Conference play-in game between the Orlando Magic and host Philadelphia 76ers is also on tap. Absentee-prone Joel Embiid (38 games) and Paul George (37) reminded us exactly who they are as neither player participated in half of Philadelphia’s regular-season games.</p><h2 id="golden-state-warriors-at-los-angeles-clippers" class=" uppercase break-words">GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS AT LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS</h2><p>Golden State likes to point to only having Curry for 43 games due to injuries as the reason for its decline but the franchise has been crumbling in the ruins even when he’s on the floor. We hate to see dynasty teams turn into the New Orleans Pelicans but this team is on pace to be that way next season.</p><p>Curry can still bomb away with the best of them, so expect him to launch plenty of 3-point aerials. The confidence is always on high from outside and a big night from behind the arc would elevate the Warriors’ chances of winning.</p><p><strong>Stephen Curry to make the most 3-pointers in this game, +116 (DraftKings)</strong></p> </section><p><span class="inline-block mr-3 uppercase shrink-0 font-bold">Our Current Best Offers</span></p><div class="pt-1 grid grid-cols-1 lg:grid-cols-2 gap-2"><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>1</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/4327/dailyfantasysports/underdog-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Underdog-ffffff.png" alt="Underdog" style="background-color:#ffffee" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">Underdog</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">Claim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to $250 in bonus!</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>2</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6026/dailyfantasysports/parlayplay" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/parlayplay-ffcf10.png" alt="ParlayPlay" style="background-color:#ffc10f" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">ParlayPlay</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $100</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>3</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6275/dailyfantasysports/ownersbox" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/ownersbox-000000.png" alt="OwnersBox" style="background-color:#191717" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">OwnersBox</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $500</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>4</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/3043/dailyfantasysports/fanduel-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Fanduel-Fantasy-0070eb.png" alt="FanDuel Fantasy" style="background-color:#0070eb" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">FanDuel Fantasy</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">$65 value with just a $10+ deposit</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div></div><section id="section-3"> <p>Leonard has been <a href="https://deadspin.com/the-los-angeles-clippers-were-finished-until-kawhi-leonard-took-over/" target="_blank">carrying the Clippers</a> most of the season and for all the time since James Harden was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 34-year-old averaged a career-best 27.9 points per game and has scored 20 or more points in 57 straight games.</p><p>In the loser-goes-home contest, you can expect Leonard to continue being the man and perhaps turning in a 40-point performance. The Clippers surely aren’t going to be looking for Brook Lopez or Kris Dunn to double their averages, they are going to fully revolve around their best player like any other night.</p><p><strong>Kawhi Leonard to score 31-plus points, -111 (DraftKings)</strong></p> </section><p><span class="inline-block mr-3 uppercase shrink-0 font-bold">Our Current Best Offers</span></p><div class="pt-1 grid grid-cols-1 lg:grid-cols-2 gap-2"><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>1</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/4327/dailyfantasysports/underdog-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Underdog-ffffff.png" alt="Underdog" style="background-color:#ffffee" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">Underdog</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">Claim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to $250 in bonus!</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>2</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6026/dailyfantasysports/parlayplay" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/parlayplay-ffcf10.png" alt="ParlayPlay" style="background-color:#ffc10f" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">ParlayPlay</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $100</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>3</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6275/dailyfantasysports/ownersbox" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/ownersbox-000000.png" alt="OwnersBox" style="background-color:#191717" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">OwnersBox</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $500</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>4</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/3043/dailyfantasysports/fanduel-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Fanduel-Fantasy-0070eb.png" alt="FanDuel Fantasy" style="background-color:#0070eb" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">FanDuel Fantasy</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">$65 value with just a $10+ deposit</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div></div> <section id="section-5"> <h2 id="orlando-magic-at-philadelphia-76ers" class=" uppercase break-words">ORLANDO MAGIC AT PHILADELPHIA 76ERS</h2><p>Embiid and George were expected to team up with Tyrese Maxey to give Philadelphia a nice three-player attack that would easily land a top-six playoff spot. Oops, that didn’t happen and Maxey was mostly a one-gang team while averaging a career-best 28.3 points per game.</p><p>Embiid will miss the contest <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2026/04/15/joel-embiid-injury-update-76ers-magic-nba-play-in-tournament/89612844007/" target="_blank">due to undergoing an appendectomy</a> – OK, so this is more of a bad-luck thing so we’re not going to pick on him. His absence, though, just makes it even clearer that Philadelphia needs another big-time effort from Maxey to beat the Magic.</p><p><strong>Tyrese Maxey to score the most points in this game, -115 (DraftKings)</strong></p> </section><p><span class="inline-block mr-3 uppercase shrink-0 font-bold">Our Current Best Offers</span></p><div class="pt-1 grid grid-cols-1 lg:grid-cols-2 gap-2"><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>1</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/4327/dailyfantasysports/underdog-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Underdog-ffffff.png" alt="Underdog" style="background-color:#ffffee" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">Underdog</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">Claim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to $250 in bonus!</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>2</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6026/dailyfantasysports/parlayplay" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/parlayplay-ffcf10.png" alt="ParlayPlay" style="background-color:#ffc10f" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">ParlayPlay</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $100</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>3</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6275/dailyfantasysports/ownersbox" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/ownersbox-000000.png" alt="OwnersBox" style="background-color:#191717" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">OwnersBox</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $500</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>4</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/3043/dailyfantasysports/fanduel-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Fanduel-Fantasy-0070eb.png" alt="FanDuel Fantasy" style="background-color:#0070eb" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">FanDuel Fantasy</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">$65 value with just a $10+ deposit</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div></div><section id="section-7"> <p>Paolo Banchero was all-everything in the regular-season finale against the Boston Celtics with 23 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds for his fifth career triple-double. You know he will be primed for another solid game but the scoring line for Banchero (24-plus points, -109) is troublesome since he has scored fewer than 24 in eight of the past nine games.</p><p>There’s also this – Desmond Bane has scored 10 total points over the past two games. Repeat – 10. He often scores that many in a single quarter. Yet earlier this month, he went 27, 27, 25 over a three-game stretch. It reasons that the <a href="https://www.nba.com/magic/videos/desmond-bane-orlando-magic-boston-celtics-highlights-play-all-82-games-20260412" target="_blank">good Bane will be back</a> on display Wednesday.</p><p><strong>Desmond Bane to score 20-plus points, -112</strong></p> </section><p><span class="inline-block mr-3 uppercase shrink-0 font-bold">Our Current Best Offers</span></p><div class="pt-1 grid grid-cols-1 lg:grid-cols-2 gap-2"><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>1</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/4327/dailyfantasysports/underdog-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Underdog-ffffff.png" alt="Underdog" style="background-color:#ffffee" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">Underdog</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">Claim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to $250 in bonus!</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>2</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6026/dailyfantasysports/parlayplay" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/parlayplay-ffcf10.png" alt="ParlayPlay" style="background-color:#ffc10f" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">ParlayPlay</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $100</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>3</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/6275/dailyfantasysports/ownersbox" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/ownersbox-000000.png" alt="OwnersBox" style="background-color:#191717" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">OwnersBox</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">100% up to $500</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div><div class="grid grid-cols-12 bg-white p-2 relative border border-gray-400"><p>4</p><div class="col-span-3"><a target="_blank" href="https://deadspin.com/go/3043/dailyfantasysports/fanduel-fantasy" class=""><div class=""><img src="https://deadspin.com/casinos-logos/350x350/Fanduel-Fantasy-0070eb.png" alt="FanDuel Fantasy" style="background-color:#0070eb" class="h-auto w-auto max-h-20 max-w-full object-contain" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/></div></a></div><div class="col-span-6"><span class="text-sm text-gray-500 pb-2">FanDuel Fantasy</span><h3 class="text-base line-clamp-2 m-0 h-12">$65 value with just a $10+ deposit</h3><p class="text-xs line-clamp-1 pt-0 mt-0">T&Cs apply, 18+</p></div></div></div> </div> #NBA #PlayIn #Picks #Bets #Warriors #Clippers #Magic #76ers #Deadspin.com

Next post

NFL Draft rumors on Cowboys trade scenarios, Steelers intel, Jeremiyah Love’s ‘floor,’ and more <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">We are heading into the home stretch ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">And the rumors are heating up.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In today’s installment of the rumor roundup we are looking at the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Dallas Cowboys, Jeremiyah Love, Carnell Tate, and much more.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">NFL Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah held his annual pre-draft conference all on Tuesday, and offered several tasty nuggets for assembled media members.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">One of those is that the Pittsburgh Steelers might be thinking wide receiver first round, even after adding Michael Pittman Jr. this offseason to pair with DK Metcalf. A potential target for Pittsburgh in the first round?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“That would give them three giants out there,” Jeremiah said.<br/>If the Steelers forgo a WR in the first round, Alabama’s. Germie Bernard, Georgia State’s Ted Hurst, and Mississippi’s De’Zhaun Stribling are other options for the Steelers.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Washington the floor for Jeremiyah Love?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The Tennessee Titans have become a popular landing spot for Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love in mock drafts.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But if Love somehow slides past Tennessee at No. 4, do not expect him to slide too far.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Speaking on <em>Get Up</em> Tuesday morning, NFL Insider Adam Schefter identified the Washington Commanders at No. 7 as the likely floor for Love in the first round:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“Feels like the floor, the floor is #7 and the Washington Commanders … Washington makes the most sense. Washington is sitting there waiting to see whether one of these other teams makes the plunge on a RB.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The complicating factor might be the fact that Washington enters the 2026 NFL Draft <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/commanders">with just six selections</a>, and following their pick at No. 7 they are not on the clock again until pick No. 71, the seventh pick of the third round. The Commanders are one of the teams discussed as a trade-down candidate, to add additional draft capital between those two selections.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But if Love is available, additional draft capital might have to wait.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Has Carnell Tate sealed his Browns fate?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In mock drafts, sending Carnell Tate to the Cleveland Browns at No. 6 is a somewhat popular selection. The Browns are expected to come away with both a wide receiver and an offensive tackle in the first round, and keeping an Ohio State product in Ohio certainly makes a lot of sense.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But has Tate already sealed a non-Browns fate?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As noted by our own <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/cleveland-browns-news/122227/browns-draft-carnell-tate-testing-tet-mcmillan">Jared Mueller at <em>Dawgs by Nature</em></a>, Tate did not complete a full testing profile during the pre-draft process, opting just to run the 40-yard dash. And while that came in at 4.53 seconds, that incomplete athletic profile could be enough for Cleveland to pass on Tate.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As they apparently did with Tetairoa McMillan a year ago:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That could open the door for Cleveland to address offensive tackle at No. 6 — if they stay in that spot — and then WR later in the first round.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Cowboys trying to jump the Giants?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The past few weeks have seen significant chatter that the Dallas Cowboys are one of the few teams looking to trade up in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the team linked to a potential move to No. 6 in a deal with the Cleveland Browns. That would get the Cowboys ahead of one of their long-time rivals, the Washington Commanders at No. 7.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But is Jerry Jones trying to get ahead of a different NFC East rival, the New York Giants at No. 5?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">NFL Insider Jordan Schultz — who has already made the case that several trades could happen when the draft begins — <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/2044099451057229884">wrote on Tuesday</a> that there is a growing belief that the Cowboys are moving up to target a player the Giants also have their eyes on:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><blockquote class="duet--article--blockquote _1teeyfa0 ls9zuh9"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">There’s a belief among teams at the top of the draft that the #Cowboys, who have picks at #12 and #20, are a team to watch in trade-up scenarios, according to multiple league sources. Several teams have said they believe Dallas is targeting a player the Giants also covet, and getting ahead of them would be ideal if the price makes sense.</p></blockquote></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As for who that might be?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The Giants have been linked with Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 5, even since his command performance at the Combine.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But the Cowboys also have a pressing need at linebacker …</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Ty Simpson remains a flash point as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches. This discussion kicked into gear when ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky made the case that the Alabama quarterback was QB1 in his eyes, and has continued to simmer in the days leading up to the draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">With the New York Jets holding a pair of picks in the first round — No. 2 and No. 16 — they are considered one potential landing spot for the Alabama passer. But during his pre-draft conference call, Daniel Jeremiah poured some cold water on that idea:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As far as what the Jets might do, Jeremiah joined the chorus of insiders who believe New York will opt for Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey with that second pick. While Arvell Reese was an early favorite for the Jets at No. 2, Jeremiah believes there is “less projection” with Bailey, who has always played on the edge in college while Reese has seen time at both off-ball linebacker, and on the edge:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">However, Steelers might not</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">We head back to Pittsburgh for our next snippet.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Could the Steelers address their quarterback room in this draft, perhaps with a trade back into the first round?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Pittsburgh enters the 2026 NFL Draft with 12 selections, the most of any team. And that trove of draft capital could make the Steelers one of the teams willing to trade back into the first round … perhaps for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“I’ve heard they do like Ty Simpson,” Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports <a href="https://www.audacy.com/stations/937thefan/shows/the-pm-team-wponi-mueller-ea0d5/episodes/93423774826b/chapters/c963510c6090">said to Andrew Fillipponi and Chris Mueller on 93.7 The Fan on Tuesday.</a> “I would not be surprised if they package some of those Day 2 picks to get back up into the first round to get Ty (Simpson) at the bottom of round one if he’s still there.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The Steelers currently have a pick in the second round (No. 53) and three picks in the third round (No. 76, No. 85, and No. 99). Pittsburgh also has a pair of fourth-round selections at No. 121 and No. 135.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">If the Steelers wanted to get back into the first round — using the Seattle Seahawks at No. 32 as a reference point — then, according to this <a href="https://www.drafttek.com/NFL-Trade-Value-Chart.asp?RequestTeam=PIT">Draft Trade Value Chart</a>, their picks at 53, 85, and 121 could be enough.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Todd McShay predicts several trades</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Todd McShay’s latest mock draft is filled with several surprises.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Including a bevy of trades in the first round.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The NFL analyst has the New Orleans Saints moving up in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals to get to No. 3 for Arvell Reese, the Cowboys coming up to No. 6 in a deal with the Cleveland Browns for Sonny Styles, the Jets coming up to No. 7 from No. 16 in a deal with the Washington Commanders for Carnell Tate, the Chicago Bears moving up a few spots in a deal with the Los Angeles Chargers to draft safety Dillon Thieneman at No. 22 and the Cardinals moving back into the first round to select Ty Simpson at No. 30.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">McShay’s <a href="https://theringer.com/todd-mcshay/mock-draft">latest mock is worth a full look</a>, but if this is what we can expect in the first round, buckle up.</p></div></div> #NFL #Draft #rumors #Cowboys #trade #scenarios #Steelers #intel #Jeremiyah #Loves #floor

The New England Patriots probably overpaid in the blockbuster trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for wide receiver A.J. Brown.

The Patriots gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 first-round selection for Brown, the 28-year-old Super Bowl champion that wanted a fresh start away from Philadelphia.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel never wanted to trade Brown to the Eagles when he was coaching the Tennessee Titans. Now, the defensive-minded Vrabel lands a wide receiver that he’s comfortable with to help the Patriots get one step closer to raising another Super Bowl banner following their loss against the Seattle Seahawks in February.

The 2028 first-round pick is a huge price to pay. That’s two drafts away, and there’s no guarantee that the Patriots, or any organization, will be able to replicate their successful 2025 season three years in a row. Even though Vrabel and Patriots young quarterback Drake Maye seem to be the next elite combination in Foxborough, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Trading a first round draft pick two years into the future is always a big gamble.

That gamble all depends on Brown’s ability to return to form with the Patriots.

After winning the Super Bowl with Philadelphia in 2024, Brown became increasingly fed up with his role in Kevin Patullo’s offense. Despite Brown’s frustration with Philadelphia, he still caught 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games during what would become his final season with the Eagles.

If Brown’s sour attitude follows him to New England, or reappears at any point before the 2029 NFL Draft, the Patriots might look back and wince at this trade.

The 28-year-old wasn’t an All-Pro last season for the first time since 2021 with the Titans, which was the only season of his career that Brown failed to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards. Brown turns 29 in June, so there will be natural questions about whether or not his best football is behind him. 

How the Patriots could win this trade

Considering that New England will send their 2028 first-round pick to Philadelphia, the Patriots will need him to be dominant through the 2029 campaign.

He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2030, at age 33.

This is obviously a calculated gamble. If Brown could be Maye’s unquestioned wide receiver No. 1 over the next four seasons, this is a home run for the Patriots. Brown understands what it takes to win a Super Bowl and he joins a franchise in New England that rebounded quickly, but now expects another championship.

The joy of having Maye on a rookie quarterback contract allows the Patriots to take big swings like this. The risk comes in if they take an unexpected step back in 2027, which is still a full season away. A lot can happen between now and then. But as long as Brown is still catching touchdowns and eclipsing 1,000 yard seasons, this is a gamble that seems worth taking.

#Englands #A.J #Brown #Trade #Huge #Risk #Huge #Reward #Deadspin.com">New England’s A.J. Brown Trade Comes With Huge Risk and Huge Reward | Deadspin.com   The New England Patriots probably overpaid in the blockbuster trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for wide receiver A.J. Brown.The Patriots gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 first-round selection for Brown, the 28-year-old Super Bowl champion that wanted a fresh start away from Philadelphia.According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel never wanted to trade Brown to the Eagles when he was coaching the Tennessee Titans. Now, the defensive-minded Vrabel lands a wide receiver that he’s comfortable with to help the Patriots get one step closer to raising another Super Bowl banner following their loss against the Seattle Seahawks in February.The 2028 first-round pick is a huge price to pay. That’s two drafts away, and there’s no guarantee that the Patriots, or any organization, will be able to replicate their successful 2025 season three years in a row. Even though Vrabel and Patriots young quarterback Drake Maye seem to be the next elite combination in Foxborough, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Trading a first round draft pick two years into the future is always a big gamble.That gamble all depends on Brown’s ability to return to form with the Patriots.After winning the Super Bowl with Philadelphia in 2024, Brown became increasingly fed up with his role in Kevin Patullo’s offense. Despite Brown’s frustration with Philadelphia, he still caught 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games during what would become his final season with the Eagles.If Brown’s sour attitude follows him to New England, or reappears at any point before the 2029 NFL Draft, the Patriots might look back and wince at this trade.The 28-year-old wasn’t an All-Pro last season for the first time since 2021 with the Titans, which was the only season of his career that Brown failed to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards. Brown turns 29 in June, so there will be natural questions about whether or not his best football is behind him. How the Patriots could win this tradeConsidering that New England will send their 2028 first-round pick to Philadelphia, the Patriots will need him to be dominant through the 2029 campaign.He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2030, at age 33.This is obviously a calculated gamble. If Brown could be Maye’s unquestioned wide receiver No. 1 over the next four seasons, this is a home run for the Patriots. Brown understands what it takes to win a Super Bowl and he joins a franchise in New England that rebounded quickly, but now expects another championship.The joy of having Maye on a rookie quarterback contract allows the Patriots to take big swings like this. The risk comes in if they take an unexpected step back in 2027, which is still a full season away. A lot can happen between now and then. But as long as Brown is still catching touchdowns and eclipsing 1,000 yard seasons, this is a gamble that seems worth taking.   #Englands #A.J #Brown #Trade #Huge #Risk #Huge #Reward #Deadspin.com

never wanted to trade Brown to the Eagles when he was coaching the Tennessee Titans. Now, the defensive-minded Vrabel lands a wide receiver that he’s comfortable with to help the Patriots get one step closer to raising another Super Bowl banner following their loss against the Seattle Seahawks in February.

The 2028 first-round pick is a huge price to pay. That’s two drafts away, and there’s no guarantee that the Patriots, or any organization, will be able to replicate their successful 2025 season three years in a row. Even though Vrabel and Patriots young quarterback Drake Maye seem to be the next elite combination in Foxborough, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Trading a first round draft pick two years into the future is always a big gamble.

That gamble all depends on Brown’s ability to return to form with the Patriots.

After winning the Super Bowl with Philadelphia in 2024, Brown became increasingly fed up with his role in Kevin Patullo’s offense. Despite Brown’s frustration with Philadelphia, he still caught 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games during what would become his final season with the Eagles.

If Brown’s sour attitude follows him to New England, or reappears at any point before the 2029 NFL Draft, the Patriots might look back and wince at this trade.

The 28-year-old wasn’t an All-Pro last season for the first time since 2021 with the Titans, which was the only season of his career that Brown failed to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards. Brown turns 29 in June, so there will be natural questions about whether or not his best football is behind him. 

How the Patriots could win this trade

Considering that New England will send their 2028 first-round pick to Philadelphia, the Patriots will need him to be dominant through the 2029 campaign.

He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2030, at age 33.

This is obviously a calculated gamble. If Brown could be Maye’s unquestioned wide receiver No. 1 over the next four seasons, this is a home run for the Patriots. Brown understands what it takes to win a Super Bowl and he joins a franchise in New England that rebounded quickly, but now expects another championship.

The joy of having Maye on a rookie quarterback contract allows the Patriots to take big swings like this. The risk comes in if they take an unexpected step back in 2027, which is still a full season away. A lot can happen between now and then. But as long as Brown is still catching touchdowns and eclipsing 1,000 yard seasons, this is a gamble that seems worth taking.

#Englands #A.J #Brown #Trade #Huge #Risk #Huge #Reward #Deadspin.com">New England’s A.J. Brown Trade Comes With Huge Risk and Huge Reward | Deadspin.com

The New England Patriots probably overpaid in the blockbuster trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for wide receiver A.J. Brown.

The Patriots gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 first-round selection for Brown, the 28-year-old Super Bowl champion that wanted a fresh start away from Philadelphia.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel never wanted to trade Brown to the Eagles when he was coaching the Tennessee Titans. Now, the defensive-minded Vrabel lands a wide receiver that he’s comfortable with to help the Patriots get one step closer to raising another Super Bowl banner following their loss against the Seattle Seahawks in February.

The 2028 first-round pick is a huge price to pay. That’s two drafts away, and there’s no guarantee that the Patriots, or any organization, will be able to replicate their successful 2025 season three years in a row. Even though Vrabel and Patriots young quarterback Drake Maye seem to be the next elite combination in Foxborough, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Trading a first round draft pick two years into the future is always a big gamble.

That gamble all depends on Brown’s ability to return to form with the Patriots.

After winning the Super Bowl with Philadelphia in 2024, Brown became increasingly fed up with his role in Kevin Patullo’s offense. Despite Brown’s frustration with Philadelphia, he still caught 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games during what would become his final season with the Eagles.

If Brown’s sour attitude follows him to New England, or reappears at any point before the 2029 NFL Draft, the Patriots might look back and wince at this trade.

The 28-year-old wasn’t an All-Pro last season for the first time since 2021 with the Titans, which was the only season of his career that Brown failed to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards. Brown turns 29 in June, so there will be natural questions about whether or not his best football is behind him. 

How the Patriots could win this trade

Considering that New England will send their 2028 first-round pick to Philadelphia, the Patriots will need him to be dominant through the 2029 campaign.

He’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2030, at age 33.

This is obviously a calculated gamble. If Brown could be Maye’s unquestioned wide receiver No. 1 over the next four seasons, this is a home run for the Patriots. Brown understands what it takes to win a Super Bowl and he joins a franchise in New England that rebounded quickly, but now expects another championship.

The joy of having Maye on a rookie quarterback contract allows the Patriots to take big swings like this. The risk comes in if they take an unexpected step back in 2027, which is still a full season away. A lot can happen between now and then. But as long as Brown is still catching touchdowns and eclipsing 1,000 yard seasons, this is a gamble that seems worth taking.

#Englands #A.J #Brown #Trade #Huge #Risk #Huge #Reward #Deadspin.com

Basketball players don’t usually peak in their thirties. But Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams, who is 32 years old and in her 10th WNBA season, is playing some of the best basketball of her career.

Williams, who is in her third year playing for head coach Cheryl Reeve on the Lynx, is averaging a career-best 17.8 points, along with 5.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.3 steals. She’s shooting 50% from the field and 44.4% from three — both career-highs — while turning the ball over just 1.8 times per game, her lowest figure since 2022.

She is coming off a season-high 30-point explosion against the Phoenix Mercury on Monday night. In that 34-point victory, Williams shot 13-of-20 from the field in 29 minutes — the fewest minutes played in a 30-point game in franchise history.

And, the Lynx are thriving. They are currently riding a 5-game win streak and have a league-best 7-2 record. They have outscored opponents by an average of 12 points per game, the highest point differential in the WNBA (for reference, the Dallas Wings and Golden State Valkyries are tied for the next-best differential at +6.2, so no one else is particularly close).

Olivia Miles, Natasha Howard have also been powering the Lynx’s early success

Williams has been the team’s leading scorer (and the 11th-leading scorer in the WNBA), but she’s far from the only reason why the Lynx find themselves on top of the standings.

Natasha Howard is also undergoing a revival; the 34-year-old is averaging 16.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, while anchoring the team’s defense. Kayla McBride is averaging 13.2 points per game (while shooting an uncharacteristically low 28.6% from three), and Nia Coffey is averaging a career-high 9.9 points per game and playing some of the best basketball of her career.

But the most impactful player might be No. 2 overall pick Olivia Miles, who is averaging 15.8 points, 6.2 assists, 5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, while shooting 49.5% from the field. Miles has taken the mantle at point guard, allowing Williams to be more of a primary scorer than a playmaker, which is her natural position.

The Olivia Miles / Courtney Williams fit in the backcourt has been seamless.

“Court, the second I stepped on the court was like ‘Go run the one, I’ll be your running mate,‘” Miles said last week, per Andrew Dukowitz. “It’s so easy with her — she’s in her natural position, she’s where she’s thriving. I think she’s playing some of her best basketball that I’ve seen. It’s so easy to play with her, it’s easy to play with everyone — when you have people who are willing to let you be you and trust you.”

Now, the Lynx, despite losing key rotation players like Alanna Smith, Jessica Shepard, Natisha Hiedeman, and Bridget Carleton in the offseason, find themselves at the top of the standings.

#32yearold #WNBA #guard #leagues #players">32-year-old WNBA guard has been one of the league’s best players  Basketball players don’t usually peak in their thirties. But Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams, who is 32 years old and in her 10th WNBA season, is playing some of the best basketball of her career.Williams, who is in her third year playing for head coach Cheryl Reeve on the Lynx, is averaging a career-best 17.8 points, along with 5.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.3 steals. She’s shooting 50% from the field and 44.4% from three — both career-highs — while turning the ball over just 1.8 times per game, her lowest figure since 2022.She is coming off a season-high 30-point explosion against the Phoenix Mercury on Monday night. In that 34-point victory, Williams shot 13-of-20 from the field in 29 minutes — the fewest minutes played in a 30-point game in franchise history.And, the Lynx are thriving. They are currently riding a 5-game win streak and have a league-best 7-2 record. They have outscored opponents by an average of 12 points per game, the highest point differential in the WNBA (for reference, the Dallas Wings and Golden State Valkyries are tied for the next-best differential at +6.2, so no one else is particularly close).Olivia Miles, Natasha Howard have also been powering the Lynx’s early success Williams has been the team’s leading scorer (and the 11th-leading scorer in the WNBA), but she’s far from the only reason why the Lynx find themselves on top of the standings.Natasha Howard is also undergoing a revival; the 34-year-old is averaging 16.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, while anchoring the team’s defense. Kayla McBride is averaging 13.2 points per game (while shooting an uncharacteristically low 28.6% from three), and Nia Coffey is averaging a career-high 9.9 points per game and playing some of the best basketball of her career.But the most impactful player might be No. 2 overall pick Olivia Miles, who is averaging 15.8 points, 6.2 assists, 5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, while shooting 49.5% from the field. Miles has taken the mantle at point guard, allowing Williams to be more of a primary scorer than a playmaker, which is her natural position.The Olivia Miles / Courtney Williams fit in the backcourt has been seamless.“Court, the second I stepped on the court was like ‘Go run the one, I’ll be your running mate,‘” Miles said last week, per Andrew Dukowitz. “It’s so easy with her — she’s in her natural position, she’s where she’s thriving. I think she’s playing some of her best basketball that I’ve seen. It’s so easy to play with her, it’s easy to play with everyone — when you have people who are willing to let you be you and trust you.”Now, the Lynx, despite losing key rotation players like Alanna Smith, Jessica Shepard, Natisha Hiedeman, and Bridget Carleton in the offseason, find themselves at the top of the standings.  #32yearold #WNBA #guard #leagues #players

Post Comment