Deadspin | Suns hope to avoid unfortunate history in play-in finale vs. Warriors Dec 20, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) controls the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images After letting a chance at advancing out of the NBA play-in tournament slip away Tuesday, the Phoenix Suns will look to bounce back in an elimination game Friday. The Suns will host the Golden State Warriors in the play-in finale, with the winner advancing to take on the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs. Phoenix led Portland by 11 with less than seven minutes remaining Tuesday before the Trail Blazers came back to advance into the playoffs and move the Suns to the brink of elimination. The Suns are looking to avoid becoming the first No. 7 seed since the play-in tournament began to drop consecutive games and miss the playoff field since this format was introduced in 2021. “We addressed it right away,” Phoenix coach Jordan Ott said of the disappointment following the loss to Portland. “The goal is get in, just get in any way possible. It’s been our goal for a while. So we’ve got to move on. Got to move on. It sucks. These are hard to take, but there’s stuff to learn in here that we’ve got to learn fast and do everything we can to get ready for Friday night.” The Warriors, who finished 10th in the Western Conference, were on the other side of that type of game earlier this week. In their 126-121 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday that sent them into Friday’s matchup, they didn’t lead in the second half until Al Horford’s 3-pointer with 2:12 left, rallying from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit. Golden State star Stephen Curry, who missed more than two months due to a knee injury before returning April 5, is coming off his best game since returning to action. He had 35 points, hitting a big three in the final minute to break a tie and lift the Warriors in their play-in opener. “There’s a reason we have four championships, and it’s the competitiveness, the heart, the will (of Curry and Draymond Green),” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “It’s been such a tough year, but to just show what they’re made of, what we’re made of (was big).” The Warriors won three of the four regular-season meetings between the teams, including a 101-97 win Feb. 5 in Phoenix in the most recent matchup. Curry missed that game due to injury, but figures to be front-and-center in this one. Suns forward Dillon Brooks said he’s looking forward to the matchup. “The first quarter is going to really show this game, how I play,” Brooks said. “And then attacking inside.” Brooks said the matchup against Curry made the matchup even more intriguing. “One of the best players ever to do it,” Brooks said. “Who else do you want to go against in an elimination game?” Curry averaged 23.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists against the Suns this season. “This is why Steph came back,” Kerr said of Curry’s performance in the play-in opener and his rising to the occasion in big moments. “Everybody out there who thought Steph should’ve taken the rest of the year off, this is what he does. This is who he is. If he can compete, he’s going to compete.” Ott said Grayson Allen was progressing after hurting his hamstring in the April 10 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers and will be a game-time decision. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Suns #hope #avoid #unfortunate #history #playin #finale #Warriors

Deadspin | Suns hope to avoid unfortunate history in play-in finale vs. Warriors
Dec 20, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) controls the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images

After letting a chance at advancing out of the NBA play-in tournament slip away Tuesday, the Phoenix Suns will look to bounce back in an elimination game Friday.

The Suns will host the Golden State Warriors in the play-in finale, with the winner advancing to take on the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs.

Phoenix led Portland by 11 with less than seven minutes remaining Tuesday before the Trail Blazers came back to advance into the playoffs and move the Suns to the brink of elimination.

The Suns are looking to avoid becoming the first No. 7 seed since the play-in tournament began to drop consecutive games and miss the playoff field since this format was introduced in 2021.

“We addressed it right away,” Phoenix coach Jordan Ott said of the disappointment following the loss to Portland. “The goal is get in, just get in any way possible. It’s been our goal for a while. So we’ve got to move on. Got to move on. It sucks. These are hard to take, but there’s stuff to learn in here that we’ve got to learn fast and do everything we can to get ready for Friday night.”

The Warriors, who finished 10th in the Western Conference, were on the other side of that type of game earlier this week. In their 126-121 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday that sent them into Friday’s matchup, they didn’t lead in the second half until Al Horford’s 3-pointer with 2:12 left, rallying from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit.

Golden State star Stephen Curry, who missed more than two months due to a knee injury before returning April 5, is coming off his best game since returning to action.

He had 35 points, hitting a big three in the final minute to break a tie and lift the Warriors in their play-in opener.

“There’s a reason we have four championships, and it’s the competitiveness, the heart, the will (of Curry and Draymond Green),” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “It’s been such a tough year, but to just show what they’re made of, what we’re made of (was big).”

The Warriors won three of the four regular-season meetings between the teams, including a 101-97 win Feb. 5 in Phoenix in the most recent matchup.

Curry missed that game due to injury, but figures to be front-and-center in this one.

Suns forward Dillon Brooks said he’s looking forward to the matchup.

“The first quarter is going to really show this game, how I play,” Brooks said. “And then attacking inside.”

Brooks said the matchup against Curry made the matchup even more intriguing.

“One of the best players ever to do it,” Brooks said. “Who else do you want to go against in an elimination game?”

Curry averaged 23.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists against the Suns this season.

“This is why Steph came back,” Kerr said of Curry’s performance in the play-in opener and his rising to the occasion in big moments. “Everybody out there who thought Steph should’ve taken the rest of the year off, this is what he does. This is who he is. If he can compete, he’s going to compete.”

Ott said Grayson Allen was progressing after hurting his hamstring in the April 10 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers and will be a game-time decision.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Suns #hope #avoid #unfortunate #history #playin #finale #Warriors

Sports news April 17, 2026

Dec 20, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) controls the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images

After letting a chance at advancing out of the NBA play-in tournament slip away Tuesday, the Phoenix Suns will look to bounce back in an elimination game Friday.

The Suns will host the Golden State Warriors in the play-in finale, with the winner advancing to take on the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs.

Phoenix led Portland by 11 with less than seven minutes remaining Tuesday before the Trail Blazers came back to advance into the playoffs and move the Suns to the brink of elimination.

The Suns are looking to avoid becoming the first No. 7 seed since the play-in tournament began to drop consecutive games and miss the playoff field since this format was introduced in 2021.

“We addressed it right away,” Phoenix coach Jordan Ott said of the disappointment following the loss to Portland. “The goal is get in, just get in any way possible. It’s been our goal for a while. So we’ve got to move on. Got to move on. It sucks. These are hard to take, but there’s stuff to learn in here that we’ve got to learn fast and do everything we can to get ready for Friday night.”

The Warriors, who finished 10th in the Western Conference, were on the other side of that type of game earlier this week. In their 126-121 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday that sent them into Friday’s matchup, they didn’t lead in the second half until Al Horford’s 3-pointer with 2:12 left, rallying from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit.

Golden State star Stephen Curry, who missed more than two months due to a knee injury before returning April 5, is coming off his best game since returning to action.

He had 35 points, hitting a big three in the final minute to break a tie and lift the Warriors in their play-in opener.

“There’s a reason we have four championships, and it’s the competitiveness, the heart, the will (of Curry and Draymond Green),” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “It’s been such a tough year, but to just show what they’re made of, what we’re made of (was big).”

The Warriors won three of the four regular-season meetings between the teams, including a 101-97 win Feb. 5 in Phoenix in the most recent matchup.

Curry missed that game due to injury, but figures to be front-and-center in this one.

Suns forward Dillon Brooks said he’s looking forward to the matchup.

“The first quarter is going to really show this game, how I play,” Brooks said. “And then attacking inside.”

Brooks said the matchup against Curry made the matchup even more intriguing.

“One of the best players ever to do it,” Brooks said. “Who else do you want to go against in an elimination game?”

Curry averaged 23.7 points, 7.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists against the Suns this season.

“This is why Steph came back,” Kerr said of Curry’s performance in the play-in opener and his rising to the occasion in big moments. “Everybody out there who thought Steph should’ve taken the rest of the year off, this is what he does. This is who he is. If he can compete, he’s going to compete.”

Ott said Grayson Allen was progressing after hurting his hamstring in the April 10 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers and will be a game-time decision.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Suns #hope #avoid #unfortunate #history #playin #finale #Warriors

NFL draft 2026 rumors on Bengals, trades, Chargers, 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">This time next week, we will be breaking down the first 32 players selected in 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">Until then, all we have are rumors and speculation.</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">So let’s dive into the latest.</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">Trades dominate the discussion every year in the days leading up to the 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">This year is no exception.</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 five teams — the Chiefs, the Cowboys, the Browns, the Dolphins, and the Jets — holding two first-round picks, many believe the first round will be filled with trades. And one of those general managers is among the believers.</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">Chiefs general manager Brett Veach.</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">During his annual pre-draft press conference on Thursday, Veach predicted an “entertaining” first night of the 2026 NFL Draft, one dominated by trades.</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">“It should be an entertaining night,” Veach <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48504831/chiefs-gm-brett-veach-expecting-lot-trades-first-round">said</a> Thursday. “There’ll probably be a lot of trades.”</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">Veach also attributed that belief to the fact that outside of Fernando Mendoza, there are not many quarterbacks graded at the top of the board. Add in the fact that other top-graded players, like Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, and safety Caleb Downs, do not play “premium” positions and you have an environment ripe for trades. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1109790/caleb-downs-scouting-report-2026-nfl-draft-film-breakdown">Read our take on why Downs is still a premium prospect</a>.</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 think that the fans will be in for a treat next Thursday because I think the grades [on prospects] are going to be so close from some of these [offensive] tackles and D-ends and receivers,” Veach said. “A lot of these guys that are mocked high may go a little lower and a lot of these guys that are getting mocked a little lower may go higher because I think they’re so close this year. There’s not this huge gap and huge fall off.</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’s what a draft like this — when you don’t have two or three [high-graded] quarterbacks and a Will Anderson [Jr.] or a Myles Garrett — does: It lends itself to open up to a lot of fun and a lot of excitement.”</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">Kansas City could be one of those teams looking to move around on draft night, given the team’s pair of first-round picks. The Chiefs are first on the clock at No. 9, then again at No. 29.</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">Based on 2024 film alone, Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy is one of the best players in this class.</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 there is some “risk” with picking him, given the ACL tear he suffered while training in the offseason ahead of 2025.</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 risk could see him potentially — potentially — falling out of the first round according to Dane Brugler from <em>The Athletic:</em></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">Brugler notes that McCoy graded out as one of his 14 first-round players, right at number 14.</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 had 14 first-round grades. McCoy is the 14th of the 14,” began Brugler, before pivoting to the “risk” associated with McCoy’s evaluation.</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">“It comes down to your appetite for risk. Everything that’s been said about the Cowboys and McCoy, I know that there’s been a lot of connections about them passing. If McCoy is still around in the mid 20s, I don’t think it’s any surprise what that is. If you trust that 2024 tape, you have no problem drafting him in the top 12 picks. If the knee is an issue for you, he could fall all the way out of the first round,” added Brugler.</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 don’t think that’s impossible.”</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’re about to see if that knee is an issue for teams in just a few days.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">What the Bengals are thinking at No. 10</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">Let’s talk about what the Cincinnati Bengals are going to do at No. 10.</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">Most analysts believe that Cincinnati needs to leave the first round having addressed its defense, which has been an Achilles’ Heel the past few seasons. Looking at the consensus mock draft for the team on <em>NFL Mock Draft Database</em>, Caleb Downs is the most common pick for them, followed by Mansoor Delane, Rueben Bain Jr., and finally the aforementioned McCoy.</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 could the Bengals pivot and draft … an offensive tackle?</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 is an <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/aj-brown-trade-compensation-albert-breer-mailbag">idea floated by <em>Sports Illustrated</em></a> insider Albert Breer. In a recent mailbag column he was asked about Cincinnati’s thinking at No. 10, and after leading with Downs he made an intriguing pivot to the offensive line.</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">[M]y guess is that No. 10 is close to being the floor for Downs. I don’t say that unequivocally because I think Bain could be in play for them, as well as the top two corners (again, depending on what they think of McCoy’s knee). I’d also throw [Kadyn] Proctor in there as a wild-card name I’ve heard for Cincinnati.</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">Evaluations on Alabama tackle Kadyn Proctor vary, with some mock drafts having him come off the board as high as No. 6 to the Cleveland Browns, with others seeing him slide into the mid-20s.</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">Given Joe Burrow’s injury history, the need to get the best five offensive linemen in front of the team’s star quarterback is a concern. How Proctor would fit into Cincinnati’s offense would be a question, given the presence of Orlando Brown and Amarius Mims. Would Cincinnati draft Proctor at No. 10 and then kick him inside to guard? That seems like a … curious plan.</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 apparently Proctor is at least on their radar.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Quentin Johnston trade rumors</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">Social media has been filled with speculation that Los Angeles Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz could move wide receiver Quentin Johnston in a trade.</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 do not expect to see that happen, according to the GM himself.</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">“There’s a lot of rumors out there on Twitter,” Hortiz said in his pre-draft press conference. “And I can tell you this, I have made zero calls about Quentin, and I’ve had zero calls regarding Quentin.”</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 speculation came from a combination of the Chargers’ crowded wide receiver room, and <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48313486/new-york-jets-quarterback-2026-draft-ty-simpson-interest">this note</a> from ESPN New York Jets insider Rich Cimini:</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">Don’t sleep on the possibility of Mougey trading for a veteran. It’s already been an active offseason for wide receiver trades, and you’re talking about a GM who has made 12 player trades in a little over a year.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Brian Thomas Jr. (Jacksonville Jaguars), Rashod Bateman (Baltimore Ravens), Quentin Johnston (Los Angeles Chargers) and Dontayvion Wicks (Green Bay Packers) have been mentioned as trade possibilities.</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">Add in the fact that the Chargers have yet to pick up Johnston’s fifth-year option ahead of the May 1 deadline, and you have fertile ground for rumors.</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">Hortiz went on to outline how the team feels about that crowded wide receiver room, which in addition to Johnston includes Ladd McConkey, Tre’ Harris, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith.</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’re really excited about the wide receiver room,” Hortiz said. “[Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel] has talked about it. Just development all those guys have made. All starting with [Johnston]. Watching him get better year after year after year.”</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">So while trade speculation is rampant, this is one trade we should not expect to see happen.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">More on the Commanders at No. 7</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">Earlier this week we <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1110981/nfl-draft-rumors-cowboys-trade-scenarios-steelers-intel-jeremiyah-love-washington">noted that Washington at No. 7 could be the floor for Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love</a>.</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">However, the Commanders might simply look at the best defender available, and select that player in that spot.</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">At least, that is the thinking outlined by NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport:</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 would not be surprised if the Commanders say, “Who is the best defensive player on our board? We will just take him,’“ began Rapoport.</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">“A couple of potential options. Caleb Downs. I would say, Sonny Styles. People love their makeup, love the way they are wired. You’ve got to imagine both these guys would potentially be in the conversation. Rueben Bain Jr., likely to be on the board at this time. Do the Commanders go here after adding so much to the edge in free agency? They are going to have a lot of options in a really good draft spot.”</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">Washington is also an intriguing team when it comes to trade rumors. After the pick at No. 7, the Commanders are not on the clock again until pick No. 71, early in the third round.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Why the draft begins at No. 3</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">Less than a week from the first round, we know very little about how the first few selections will play out.</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">Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 seems the sure thing, and nothing the Raiders have done during the pre-draft process — including adding Kirk Cousins — has changed that belief.</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 New York Jets at No. 2 could go in a few different directions. Ohio State’s Arvell Reese was a favorite for the Jets until recently, when Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey became the potential target for them. As Jonathan Jones of <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/one-week-out-from-the-nfl-draft-intel-rumors-and-what-were-hearing/"><em>CBS Sports </em>wrote on Thursday</a>, the decision between the two players comes down to what the Jets need more: Help now, or help in the future?</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">The decision, according to sources, comes down to a fundamental question: do you want immediate help now, or do you want even better help down the road? “Bailey is the surest one but Arvell is gonna be a star,” said one defensive coordinator. “Arvell needs some time and the Jets need someone right now.”</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">And while the Jets have met with Jeremiyah Love, potentially to gauge his value in a potential trade out of No. 2, there is every expectation New York will at least stay in that spot and draft Reese or Bailey. Because after all, this is a team that did not secure a single interception last year, and desperately needs help on the defensive side of the ball.</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">Then the draft will really begin.</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">Because nobody knows what the Arizona Cardinals are going to do at No. 3. Even with additions made to the offensive line, Arizona could still add one of the top tackles in the draft. The Cardinals could decide to simply take the defender New York passes on, whether that is Reese or Bailey.</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">Or the Cardinals could trade out, which Jones notes.</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">If it’s Bailey at No. 2, I could see Reese going at No. 3, or vice versa. It’s just not a sure-thing that it’s Arizona picking there.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Arizona Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort is known to be willing to make a draft-day deal. You’ll hear plenty about teams being willing to trade down in this year’s draft, and I think the Cardinals are serious contenders to do just that.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Looking around the league, folks believe the draft begins at No. 3 and no one seems to have a very good sense of what Arizona will do. The Cardinals are the wild cards here.</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">This year, the NFL Draft begins at No. 3.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">What about the Eagles at No. 25?</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">Most of the discussion involving the Philadelphia Eagles in recent weeks has focused on the future of A.J. Brown. With June 1 looming — a date on the NFL calendar that would make it easier financially for the Eagles to trade the WR — speculation has resurfaced that Brown could be on his way out of town.</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 turning to the draft, what are the Eagles going to do 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">Many believe that offensive line is in play, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48495253/2026-nfl-draft-latest-buzz-steals-news-downs-tyson-sadiq-eagles-giants-steelers#phi">including</a> ESPN Eagles insider Tim McManus. Still, do not expect general manager Howie Roseman to “force a pick” in that spot.</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">The offensive line was an issue for the first time in a long time last season, and there’s evidence the Eagles could invest early in the trenches after the bulk of their predraft visits were dedicated to that position group. Right tackle Lane Johnson and left guard Landon Dickerson both contemplated retirement this offseason, further emphasizing the need to fortify the front.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">However, they won’t force a pick. Philadelphia is primarily focused on walking away with what it considers a first-round talent, whether that’s at O-line, receiver, tight end or otherwise.</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">This need is reflected in the latest mock drafts, as Mel Kiper Jr. sends Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller to Philadelphia, while Dane Brugler opted for Kadyn Proctor.</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">Here at <em>SB Nation</em>, the league-wide mock draft saw our friends at <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/philadelphia-eagles-draft/173557/2026-nfl-mock-draft-philadelphia-eagles-pick-offensive-tackle"><em>Bleeding Green Nation</em> select</a> Max Iheanachor, calling him the “heir to Lane Johnson’s throne.”</p></div></div> #NFL #draft #rumors #Bengals #trades #Chargers

21 Affordable Athleisure Pieces You Can Wear To The Gym Or Just On Your Couch

#Stuttgart #Open #Muchova #breaks #losing #streak #Gauff #semifinal">

Stuttgart Open 2026: Muchova breaks losing streak against Gauff to make semifinal Karolina Muchova broke through for a first win over Coco Gauff on Friday, eliminating the French Open champion in three sets in the quarterfinal in Stuttgart.Muchova had never beaten world number three Gauff in six matches, including a loss in the fourth round of this year’s Australian Open, but prevailed 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 to reach the Stuttgart semifinal for the first time.The 12th-ranked Muchova will face Elina Svitolina for a place in the final.After ensuring Gauff exited the tournament in the quarterfinal for the third straight year, Muchova said she tried not to let the daunting record impact her preparation.“It was a great fight. I’m just happy that I finally, finally beat her,” Muchova said.“This was actually our first match on a clay court. On clay we were 0-0 in the matches — I tried to keep it positive.”ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from Madrid Open 2026Earlier on Friday, fourth seed Svitolina moved past Czech Linda Noskova 7-6 (7/2), 7-5 to book her final four spot.The in-form Ukrainian has now reached five semifinals this season.Svitolina told reporters she had re-discovered her fighting spirit after a difficult 2025.“I had a really difficult end of last year, struggling a bit mentally,” Svitolina said. “I think my fighting spirit is back this year. I’m very pleased with that.”Later on Friday, third seed Iga Swiatek takes on rising star Mirra Andreeva while top seed Elena Rybakina faces Leylah Fernandez.Published on Apr 17, 2026 #Stuttgart #Open #Muchova #breaks #losing #streak #Gauff #semifinal

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Karolina Muchova broke through for a first win over Coco Gauff on Friday, eliminating the French Open champion in three sets in the quarterfinal in Stuttgart.
Muchova had never beaten world number three Gauff in six matches, including a loss in the fourth round of this year’s Australian Open, but prevailed 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 to reach the Stuttgart semifinal for the first time.
The 12th-ranked Muchova will face Elina Svitolina for a place in the final.
After ensuring Gauff exited the tournament in the quarterfinal for the third straight year, Muchova said she tried not to let the daunting record impact her preparation.
“It was a great fight. I’m just happy that I finally, finally beat her,” Muchova said.
“This was actually our first match on a clay court. On clay we were 0-0 in the matches — I tried to keep it positive.”
ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from Madrid Open 2026
Earlier on Friday, fourth seed Svitolina moved past Czech Linda Noskova 7-6 (7/2), 7-5 to book her final four spot.
The in-form Ukrainian has now reached five semifinals this season.
Svitolina told reporters she had re-discovered her fighting spirit after a difficult 2025.
“I had a really difficult end of last year, struggling a bit mentally,” Svitolina said. “I think my fighting spirit is back this year. I’m very pleased with that.”
Later on Friday, third seed Iga Swiatek takes on rising star Mirra Andreeva while top seed Elena Rybakina faces Leylah Fernandez.
Published on Apr 17, 2026

#Stuttgart #Open #Muchova #breaks #losing #streak #Gauff #semifinal">Stuttgart Open 2026: Muchova breaks losing streak against Gauff to make semifinal

Karolina Muchova broke through for a first win over Coco Gauff on Friday, eliminating the French Open champion in three sets in the quarterfinal in Stuttgart.

Muchova had never beaten world number three Gauff in six matches, including a loss in the fourth round of this year’s Australian Open, but prevailed 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 to reach the Stuttgart semifinal for the first time.

The 12th-ranked Muchova will face Elina Svitolina for a place in the final.

After ensuring Gauff exited the tournament in the quarterfinal for the third straight year, Muchova said she tried not to let the daunting record impact her preparation.

“It was a great fight. I’m just happy that I finally, finally beat her,” Muchova said.

“This was actually our first match on a clay court. On clay we were 0-0 in the matches — I tried to keep it positive.”

ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from Madrid Open 2026

Earlier on Friday, fourth seed Svitolina moved past Czech Linda Noskova 7-6 (7/2), 7-5 to book her final four spot.

The in-form Ukrainian has now reached five semifinals this season.

Svitolina told reporters she had re-discovered her fighting spirit after a difficult 2025.

“I had a really difficult end of last year, struggling a bit mentally,” Svitolina said. “I think my fighting spirit is back this year. I’m very pleased with that.”

Later on Friday, third seed Iga Swiatek takes on rising star Mirra Andreeva while top seed Elena Rybakina faces Leylah Fernandez.

Published on Apr 17, 2026

#Stuttgart #Open #Muchova #breaks #losing #streak #Gauff #semifinal

Deadspin | Rangers ride momentum of late rally into opener vs. Mariners Apr 16, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Texas Rangers catcher Kyle Higashioka (11) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run against the Athletics during the ninth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images Winning on getaway day sure beats the alternative. The Texas Rangers know that feeling after scoring four runs in the ninth inning on Thursday to beat the Athletics 9-6 in West Sacramento, Calif. The Rangers practically glided to Seattle, where they’ll meet their American League West rival, the Mariners, in a three-game series beginning Friday night. It appeared the Rangers were going to lose Thursday after Nick Kurtz’s wind-aided double with the bases loaded in the bottom of the eighth inning fell in front of left fielder Wyatt Langford, clearing the bases and giving the A’s a one-run lead. But the Rangers rallied in the ninth, with Joc Pederson’s RBI single and Ezequiel Duran’s two-run single as the key blows. “I just think that they played nine innings no matter what,” Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said. “They play hard, and it doesn’t matter what the score is. There’s always a fighting chance. I’m just proud of these guys. They just never give up. It was pretty demoralizing, how that was going. It could have been a demoralizing flight, quite honestly. That’s not easy to do, so this is a much happier flight, for sure.” Josh Jung, who went 3-for-5 with a double, homer and two RBIs, credited Langford, who took out his frustration between the eighth and ninth innings by lobbing some water jugs around the visiting dugout. “He kind of did it for all of us, probably,” Jung said. “We were frustrated, but then we’re just laughing. It’s like one jug goes, and then the next goes, too.” The Rangers and A’s split their four-game series to remain tied atop the AL West. The Mariners, meanwhile, were swept in a three-game series in San Diego, losing 5-2 Thursday to drop to 1-8 on the road and into a tie with Houston in the division cellar. The Mariners also were swept in a three-game series early last week in Texas vs. the Rangers, having been outscored 8-3. “We just need to continue to set the table,” Mariners star Julio Rodríguez said. “Somebody’s gonna eat at some point.” Seattle is starving for its Nos. 2-4 hitters — Cal Raleigh, Rodriguez and Josh Naylor — to break out of their early season slumps. The trio has combined for a .162 batting average with five home runs and 24 RBIs. “We play a really hard game. Sometimes we’re not gonna come through there. Sometimes you’re gonna come through,” Rodriguez said. “I feel like if you play good baseball you can win at home, on the road, everywhere.” The series opener will feature a pair of ace right-handers in the Rangers’ Jacob deGrom (1-0, 2.87 ERA) and the Mariners’ Logan Gilbert (1-2, 4.18). DeGrom got his first victory of the season Sunday at the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, when he allowed one run on four hits over six innings, with three walks and nine strikeouts, in a 5-2 decision. In his start previous to that, on April 6, he got a no-decision in a 2-1 victory against the Mariners. The only hit he allowed over five innings was a solo homer by Raleigh. In eight career starts against Seattle, deGrom is 2-2 with a 3.26 ERA. Gilbert is 5-3 with a 2.90 ERA in 17 career starts against Texas. He took the loss in that April 6 matchup with deGrom despite giving up just two runs in six innings. Gilbert also is coming off his first victory of the season, defeating visiting Houston 6-1 Sunday when he allowed one run on four hits over seven innings, with one walk and seven strikeouts. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Rangers #ride #momentum #late #rally #opener #Mariners

#Deadspin #Rangers #ride #momentum #late #rally #opener #Mariners">

mwasimuddin125 0

Apr 16, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Texas Rangers catcher Kyle Higashioka (11) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run against the Athletics during the ninth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

Winning on getaway day sure beats the alternative.

The Texas Rangers know that feeling after scoring four runs in the ninth inning on Thursday to beat the Athletics 9-6 in West Sacramento, Calif.

The Rangers practically glided to Seattle, where they’ll meet their American League West rival, the Mariners, in a three-game series beginning Friday night.

It appeared the Rangers were going to lose Thursday after Nick Kurtz’s wind-aided double with the bases loaded in the bottom of the eighth inning fell in front of left fielder Wyatt Langford, clearing the bases and giving the A’s a one-run lead.

But the Rangers rallied in the ninth, with Joc Pederson’s RBI single and Ezequiel Duran’s two-run single as the key blows.

“I just think that they played nine innings no matter what,” Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said. “They play hard, and it doesn’t matter what the score is. There’s always a fighting chance. I’m just proud of these guys. They just never give up. It was pretty demoralizing, how that was going. It could have been a demoralizing flight, quite honestly. That’s not easy to do, so this is a much happier flight, for sure.”

Josh Jung, who went 3-for-5 with a double, homer and two RBIs, credited Langford, who took out his frustration between the eighth and ninth innings by lobbing some water jugs around the visiting dugout.

“He kind of did it for all of us, probably,” Jung said. “We were frustrated, but then we’re just laughing. It’s like one jug goes, and then the next goes, too.”

The Rangers and A’s split their four-game series to remain tied atop the AL West.

The Mariners, meanwhile, were swept in a three-game series in San Diego, losing 5-2 Thursday to drop to 1-8 on the road and into a tie with Houston in the division cellar. The Mariners also were swept in a three-game series early last week in Texas vs. the Rangers, having been outscored 8-3.

“We just need to continue to set the table,” Mariners star Julio Rodríguez said. “Somebody’s gonna eat at some point.”

Seattle is starving for its Nos. 2-4 hitters — Cal Raleigh, Rodriguez and Josh Naylor — to break out of their early season slumps. The trio has combined for a .162 batting average with five home runs and 24 RBIs.

“We play a really hard game. Sometimes we’re not gonna come through there. Sometimes you’re gonna come through,” Rodriguez said. “I feel like if you play good baseball you can win at home, on the road, everywhere.”

The series opener will feature a pair of ace right-handers in the Rangers’ Jacob deGrom (1-0, 2.87 ERA) and the Mariners’ Logan Gilbert (1-2, 4.18).

DeGrom got his first victory of the season Sunday at the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, when he allowed one run on four hits over six innings, with three walks and nine strikeouts, in a 5-2 decision.

In his start previous to that, on April 6, he got a no-decision in a 2-1 victory against the Mariners. The only hit he allowed over five innings was a solo homer by Raleigh.

In eight career starts against Seattle, deGrom is 2-2 with a 3.26 ERA.

Gilbert is 5-3 with a 2.90 ERA in 17 career starts against Texas. He took the loss in that April 6 matchup with deGrom despite giving up just two runs in six innings.

Gilbert also is coming off his first victory of the season, defeating visiting Houston 6-1 Sunday when he allowed one run on four hits over seven innings, with one walk and seven strikeouts.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Rangers #ride #momentum #late #rally #opener #Mariners">Deadspin | Rangers ride momentum of late rally into opener vs. Mariners

Apr 16, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Texas Rangers catcher Kyle Higashioka (11) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run against the Athletics during the ninth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

Winning on getaway day sure beats the alternative.

The Texas Rangers know that feeling after scoring four runs in the ninth inning on Thursday to beat the Athletics 9-6 in West Sacramento, Calif.

The Rangers practically glided to Seattle, where they’ll meet their American League West rival, the Mariners, in a three-game series beginning Friday night.

It appeared the Rangers were going to lose Thursday after Nick Kurtz’s wind-aided double with the bases loaded in the bottom of the eighth inning fell in front of left fielder Wyatt Langford, clearing the bases and giving the A’s a one-run lead.

But the Rangers rallied in the ninth, with Joc Pederson’s RBI single and Ezequiel Duran’s two-run single as the key blows.

“I just think that they played nine innings no matter what,” Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said. “They play hard, and it doesn’t matter what the score is. There’s always a fighting chance. I’m just proud of these guys. They just never give up. It was pretty demoralizing, how that was going. It could have been a demoralizing flight, quite honestly. That’s not easy to do, so this is a much happier flight, for sure.”

Josh Jung, who went 3-for-5 with a double, homer and two RBIs, credited Langford, who took out his frustration between the eighth and ninth innings by lobbing some water jugs around the visiting dugout.

“He kind of did it for all of us, probably,” Jung said. “We were frustrated, but then we’re just laughing. It’s like one jug goes, and then the next goes, too.”

The Rangers and A’s split their four-game series to remain tied atop the AL West.

The Mariners, meanwhile, were swept in a three-game series in San Diego, losing 5-2 Thursday to drop to 1-8 on the road and into a tie with Houston in the division cellar. The Mariners also were swept in a three-game series early last week in Texas vs. the Rangers, having been outscored 8-3.

“We just need to continue to set the table,” Mariners star Julio Rodríguez said. “Somebody’s gonna eat at some point.”

Seattle is starving for its Nos. 2-4 hitters — Cal Raleigh, Rodriguez and Josh Naylor — to break out of their early season slumps. The trio has combined for a .162 batting average with five home runs and 24 RBIs.

“We play a really hard game. Sometimes we’re not gonna come through there. Sometimes you’re gonna come through,” Rodriguez said. “I feel like if you play good baseball you can win at home, on the road, everywhere.”

The series opener will feature a pair of ace right-handers in the Rangers’ Jacob deGrom (1-0, 2.87 ERA) and the Mariners’ Logan Gilbert (1-2, 4.18).

DeGrom got his first victory of the season Sunday at the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, when he allowed one run on four hits over six innings, with three walks and nine strikeouts, in a 5-2 decision.

In his start previous to that, on April 6, he got a no-decision in a 2-1 victory against the Mariners. The only hit he allowed over five innings was a solo homer by Raleigh.

In eight career starts against Seattle, deGrom is 2-2 with a 3.26 ERA.

Gilbert is 5-3 with a 2.90 ERA in 17 career starts against Texas. He took the loss in that April 6 matchup with deGrom despite giving up just two runs in six innings.

Gilbert also is coming off his first victory of the season, defeating visiting Houston 6-1 Sunday when he allowed one run on four hits over seven innings, with one walk and seven strikeouts.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Rangers #ride #momentum #late #rally #opener #Mariners

Top seed Alexander Zverev battled back from a set down to beat Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo on Friday and book a spot in the semifinals of the Munich ATP tournament.

The three-time Munich champion won 5-7, 6-0, 6-2 and will take on Italy’s Flavio Cobolli on Saturday for a place in the final.

Zverev burst out of the blocks and served for a 5-1 lead in the opening set but appeared to suddenly lose his rhythm, winning just one more game as Cerundolo powered back to take the opening set.

As the second set began, and with the support of the home crowd, the 28-year-old found his form as swiftly as he had lost it, bouncing back to win the final two sets while dropping just two games.

“Even in the first set when I was up 4-1, he started playing unbelievable. He started returning unbelievable,” Zverev said.

“My first-serve percentage was very high, and he started returning a foot in front of the baseline. So there was nothing I could do, to be honest,” he added.

The German came into Friday’s match holding a 4-3 career advantage over the fifth-seeded Cerundolo but had never previously beaten the Argentine in three matches on clay.

“Definitely happy to get the win today against Francisco, for the first time on clay,” Zverev said on court after the win.

ALSO READ | Barcelona Open 2026: Musetti beats Moutet, to face Fils quarterfinal

Zverev, whose most recent title came in Munich a year ago, is chasing a record fourth triumph at the tournament, having also won in 2017 and 2018.

On the other side of the draw, American second seed Ben Shelton overcame Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca to keep hopes of a 2025 Munich final rematch with Zverev alive.

Shelton, the world number six, won 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 and will take on either Denis Shapovalov or Alex Molcan in the semifinals.

The American has never won a clay court tournament, having lost in straight sets to Zverev in Munich a year ago. Earlier, Cobolli was the first to book a spot in the final four after he defeated Czech Vit Kopriva 6-3, 6-2.

Playing on his favourite surface, the fourth seed won the opening set and cruised to a 5-1 lead in the second. He missed two match points on Kopriva’s serve before finishing it off in the following game.

Published on Apr 17, 2026

#Munich #Open #Zverev #fights #Cerundolo #reach #semifinal">

Munich Open 2026: Zverev fights past Cerundolo to reach semifinal Top seed Alexander Zverev battled back from a set down to beat Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo on Friday and book a spot in the semifinals of the Munich ATP tournament.The three-time Munich champion won 5-7, 6-0, 6-2 and will take on Italy’s Flavio Cobolli on Saturday for a place in the final.Zverev burst out of the blocks and served for a 5-1 lead in the opening set but appeared to suddenly lose his rhythm, winning just one more game as Cerundolo powered back to take the opening set.As the second set began, and with the support of the home crowd, the 28-year-old found his form as swiftly as he had lost it, bouncing back to win the final two sets while dropping just two games.“Even in the first set when I was up 4-1, he started playing unbelievable. He started returning unbelievable,” Zverev said.“My first-serve percentage was very high, and he started returning a foot in front of the baseline. So there was nothing I could do, to be honest,” he added.The German came into Friday’s match holding a 4-3 career advantage over the fifth-seeded Cerundolo but had never previously beaten the Argentine in three matches on clay.“Definitely happy to get the win today against Francisco, for the first time on clay,” Zverev said on court after the win.ALSO READ | Barcelona Open 2026: Musetti beats Moutet, to face Fils quarterfinalZverev, whose most recent title came in Munich a year ago, is chasing a record fourth triumph at the tournament, having also won in 2017 and 2018.On the other side of the draw, American second seed Ben Shelton overcame Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca to keep hopes of a 2025 Munich final rematch with Zverev alive.Shelton, the world number six, won 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 and will take on either Denis Shapovalov or Alex Molcan in the semifinals.The American has never won a clay court tournament, having lost in straight sets to Zverev in Munich a year ago. Earlier, Cobolli was the first to book a spot in the final four after he defeated Czech Vit Kopriva 6-3, 6-2.Playing on his favourite surface, the fourth seed won the opening set and cruised to a 5-1 lead in the second. He missed two match points on Kopriva’s serve before finishing it off in the following game.Published on Apr 17, 2026 #Munich #Open #Zverev #fights #Cerundolo #reach #semifinal

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Top seed Alexander Zverev battled back from a set down to beat Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo on Friday and book a spot in the semifinals of the Munich ATP tournament.
The three-time Munich champion won 5-7, 6-0, 6-2 and will take on Italy’s Flavio Cobolli on Saturday for a place in the final.
Zverev burst out of the blocks and served for a 5-1 lead in the opening set but appeared to suddenly lose his rhythm, winning just one more game as Cerundolo powered back to take the opening set.
As the second set began, and with the support of the home crowd, the 28-year-old found his form as swiftly as he had lost it, bouncing back to win the final two sets while dropping just two games.
“Even in the first set when I was up 4-1, he started playing unbelievable. He started returning unbelievable,” Zverev said.
“My first-serve percentage was very high, and he started returning a foot in front of the baseline. So there was nothing I could do, to be honest,” he added.
The German came into Friday’s match holding a 4-3 career advantage over the fifth-seeded Cerundolo but had never previously beaten the Argentine in three matches on clay.
“Definitely happy to get the win today against Francisco, for the first time on clay,” Zverev said on court after the win.
ALSO READ | Barcelona Open 2026: Musetti beats Moutet, to face Fils quarterfinal
Zverev, whose most recent title came in Munich a year ago, is chasing a record fourth triumph at the tournament, having also won in 2017 and 2018.
On the other side of the draw, American second seed Ben Shelton overcame Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca to keep hopes of a 2025 Munich final rematch with Zverev alive.
Shelton, the world number six, won 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 and will take on either Denis Shapovalov or Alex Molcan in the semifinals.
The American has never won a clay court tournament, having lost in straight sets to Zverev in Munich a year ago. Earlier, Cobolli was the first to book a spot in the final four after he defeated Czech Vit Kopriva 6-3, 6-2.
Playing on his favourite surface, the fourth seed won the opening set and cruised to a 5-1 lead in the second. He missed two match points on Kopriva’s serve before finishing it off in the following game.
Published on Apr 17, 2026

#Munich #Open #Zverev #fights #Cerundolo #reach #semifinal">Munich Open 2026: Zverev fights past Cerundolo to reach semifinal