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Venus Williams eliminated from first round of Madrid Open  Venus Williams was knocked out of the Madrid Open on Tuesday as the 45-year-old went down in straight sets to Kaitlin Quevedo.The 20-year-old Spanish wild card beat the seven-time Grand Slam champion 6-2, 6-4 in just under one hour and 45 minutes on court.Ranked 479th in the world, Williams has now lost all seven matches she has played this season. It was her first match on clay since Roland Garros five years ago.ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comebackEvery game was closely contested in a first set marked by numerous unforced errors due to the wind blowing across the Estadio Manolo Santana but the world number 140, playing in her first 1000-level event, was the more consistent of the two.Williams got off to a better start in the second set, taking a 3-0 lead, before Quevedo began to fight back and the match was then interrupted by rain while the roof over the centre court was closed.Quevedo won five consecutive games to seal her passage to the second round.Earlier, former world number two Paula Badosa lost 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-0 to Julia Grabher as the Spaniard exited her hometown event at the round-of-128 stage.Beatriz Haddad Maia, a 2023 Roland Garros semi-finalist, went out 6-1, 6-1 to Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.Later, 2025 Roland Garros sensation Lois Boisson makes her return to action when she takes on Peyton Stearns for a spot in the second round, where top seed and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka awaits.Published on Apr 22, 2026  #Venus #Williams #eliminated #Madrid #Open

Venus Williams eliminated from first round of Madrid Open

Venus Williams was knocked out of the Madrid Open on Tuesday as the 45-year-old went down in straight sets to Kaitlin Quevedo.

The 20-year-old Spanish wild card beat the seven-time Grand Slam champion 6-2, 6-4 in just under one hour and 45 minutes on court.

Ranked 479th in the world, Williams has now lost all seven matches she has played this season. It was her first match on clay since Roland Garros five years ago.

ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comeback

Every game was closely contested in a first set marked by numerous unforced errors due to the wind blowing across the Estadio Manolo Santana but the world number 140, playing in her first 1000-level event, was the more consistent of the two.

Williams got off to a better start in the second set, taking a 3-0 lead, before Quevedo began to fight back and the match was then interrupted by rain while the roof over the centre court was closed.

Quevedo won five consecutive games to seal her passage to the second round.

Earlier, former world number two Paula Badosa lost 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-0 to Julia Grabher as the Spaniard exited her hometown event at the round-of-128 stage.

Beatriz Haddad Maia, a 2023 Roland Garros semi-finalist, went out 6-1, 6-1 to Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.

Later, 2025 Roland Garros sensation Lois Boisson makes her return to action when she takes on Peyton Stearns for a spot in the second round, where top seed and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka awaits.

Published on Apr 22, 2026

#Venus #Williams #eliminated #Madrid #Open

Venus Williams was knocked out of the Madrid Open on Tuesday as the 45-year-old went down in straight sets to Kaitlin Quevedo.

The 20-year-old Spanish wild card beat the seven-time Grand Slam champion 6-2, 6-4 in just under one hour and 45 minutes on court.

Ranked 479th in the world, Williams has now lost all seven matches she has played this season. It was her first match on clay since Roland Garros five years ago.

ALSO READ | Alcaraz may skip Roland Garros rather than rush injury comeback

Every game was closely contested in a first set marked by numerous unforced errors due to the wind blowing across the Estadio Manolo Santana but the world number 140, playing in her first 1000-level event, was the more consistent of the two.

Williams got off to a better start in the second set, taking a 3-0 lead, before Quevedo began to fight back and the match was then interrupted by rain while the roof over the centre court was closed.

Quevedo won five consecutive games to seal her passage to the second round.

Earlier, former world number two Paula Badosa lost 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-0 to Julia Grabher as the Spaniard exited her hometown event at the round-of-128 stage.

Beatriz Haddad Maia, a 2023 Roland Garros semi-finalist, went out 6-1, 6-1 to Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.

Later, 2025 Roland Garros sensation Lois Boisson makes her return to action when she takes on Peyton Stearns for a spot in the second round, where top seed and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka awaits.

Published on Apr 22, 2026

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Deadspin | Patriots coach Mike Vrabel chides own decisions in addressing Russini fallout <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28338550.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28338550.jpg" alt="NFL: Scouting Combine" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Mike Vrabel admitted “difficult conversations with people I care about” were necessary to address photos were published of the Patriots head coach and a former Athletic reporter.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Vrabel’s comments to reporters Tuesday come approximately two weeks after the New York Post published pictures of Vrabel and journalist Dianna Russini holding hands and hugging at an adults-only hotel in Sedona, Ariz. The league held its annual meetings in Phoenix from March 29-April 1.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Vrabel, 50, and Russini, 43, are both married. Vrabel initially told the Post that the photos were a “completely innocent interaction and any suggestion otherwise is laughable.”</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Vrabel took a much more serious and accountable tone on Tuesday.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-5"> <p>“I’ve had some difficult conversations with people that I care about, with my family, the organization, the coaches, the players. Those have been positive and productive,” Vrabel said. “You know, we believe in order to be successful on and off the field, you have to make good decisions. That includes me, that starts with me. We never want our actions to negatively affect the team. You never want to be the cause of a distraction. And when I — those are comments and questions that I’ve answered for the team, with the team, we’ll keep those private and to ourselves.</p> </section> <section id="section-6"> <p>“I care deeply about this football team, and I’m excited to coach them. I also know that I’m gonna attack each day with humility and focus. And what I can promise you is that my family, this organization, the team, the staff, the coaches, everybody, our fans most importantly, will get the best version of me going forward. That’s what I know, and I’m excited to do that. But I wanted to go and just address this, and thank you for your patience in dealing with the private and personal matter.”</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Several follow-up questions by reporters essentially were dismissed by Vrabel, who said he would keep private the conversations he had with the team’s brass.</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>Russini resigned from the Athletic, where she was lead NFL reporter, last Tuesday amid an internal investigation into the nature of her relationship with Vrabel. </p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Vrabel took over as head coach of the Patriots — the team for which he played — before the 2025 season and led New England to the Super Bowl LX. The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Patriots 29-13.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-10"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Patriots #coach #Mike #Vrabel #chides #decisions #addressing #Russini #fallout

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Deadspin | Golf Glance: LPGA begins major season; PGA Tour’s lone team event <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/27634243.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/27634243.jpg" alt="Syndication: The News-Press" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Nelly Korda at the CME Group Tour Championships in Naples, Fla. on Nov. 20, 2025.<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>The LPGA tees off its major season with the Chevron Championship, while the PGA Tour plays its only team event of the season and the DP World Tour returns to action in China.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>PGA TOUR</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>THIS WEEK: Zurich Classic of New Orleans, Louisiana, April 23-26</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Course: TPC Louisiana (Par 72, 7,425 Yards)</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Purse: $9.5M (Winner: $1.37M Each Player)</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Defending Champions: Ben Griffin/Andrew Novak</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>FedEx Cup Leader: Scottie Scheffler</p> </section><section id="section-8"> <p>HOW TO FOLLOW</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>TV: Thursday-Friday: 3-6 p.m. ET; Saturday-Sunday: 1-3 p.m. (GC), 3-6 p.m. (CBS, Paramount+)</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Streaming (ESPN+): Thursday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. ET; Friday: 8:45 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>X: @Zurich_Classic</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>NOTES: This is the ninth edition of the only team event on the PGA Tour schedule. The teams will play Four-ball (best ball) on Thursday and Saturday and Foursomes (alternate shot) on Friday and Sunday. … Both winning team members earn a two-year exemption on tour, 400 FedEx Cup points each and spots in the PGA Championship and all remaining signature events. No Official World Golf Ranking points are awarded. … No team has yet to successfully defend a title at the Zurich Classic. … Blades Brown, 19, is in the field on a sponsor exemption and paired with former Florida State star Luke Clanton. … This is the final event for players to earn spots into next week’s signature event via the Aon Swing 5. The standings are currently led by Rick Castillo, David Lipsky, Matt Wallace, Chandler Blanchet and Jordan Smith. All but Castillo are in this week’s field. … The tournament scoring record of 258 was set by Nick Hardy and Davis Riley in 2023.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>BEST BETS: Matt Fitzpatrick/Alex Fitzpatrick (+1175 at DraftKings) have been enjoying excellent runs. Matt has won two of his past three events to get to a career-best No. 3 in the world, and his brother is coming off a win on the DP World Tour. … Brooks Koepka/Shane Lowry (+1550). Lowry won this event two years ago with Rory McIlroy, and a win this week would get Koepka into next week’s signature event. … Sudarshan Yellamaraju/Ryan Gerard (+1750). Yellamaraju snapped a streak of three consecutive top-15 finishes with a T52 last week. Gerard was sniffing the first page of the Masters leaderboard before settling for a T38. … Novak/Griffin (+1850). Novak has two top-16s in his past three starts. While Griffin has struggled to follow up his breakout 2025, but did play well at the Masters before a 77 on Sunday dropped him to T33.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Last Tournament: RBC Heritage (Matt Fitzpatrick)</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>Next Tournament: Cadillac Championship, Miami, April 30-May 3</p> </section><section id="section-16"> <p>LPGA TOUR </p> </section><section id="section-17"> <p>THIS WEEK: The Chevron Championship, Houston, April 23-26</p> </section><section id="section-18"> <p>Course: Memorial Park (Par 72, 6,811 Yards)</p> </section><section id="section-19"> <p>Purse: $8M (Winner: $1.2M)</p> </section><section id="section-20"> <p>Defending Champion: Mao Saigo</p> </section><section id="section-21"> <p>Race to CME Globe Leader: Nelly Korda</p> </section><section id="section-22"> <p>HOW TO FOLLOW:</p> </section><section id="section-23"> <p>TV: Thursday-Friday: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 6-8 p.m. ET (Golf Channel); Saturday: 1-3 p.m. (NBC), 3-6 p.m. (GC); 2-5:30 p.m. (NBC)</p> </section><section id="section-24"> <p>Streaming (Peacock): Saturday: 1-6 p.m. ET; Sunday: 1:30-5:30 p.m. </p> </section><section id="section-25"> <p>X: @Chevron_Golf</p> </section><section id="section-26"> <p>NOTES: This is the first of five majors this season. Five of the past six Chevron Championship winners were also first-time major champions. … The 132-player field features the top three players in the Rolex Standings in Jeeno Thitikul, Korda and Hyo Joo Kim. Thitikul is still seeking her first major title. … The event moves to the municipal course Memorial Park following a three-year stint at The Club at Carlton Woods in The Woodlands. Memorial Park also plays host to the Texas Children’s Open on the PGA Tour. … Stacy Lewis, 41, is four months pregnant and The Woodlands native will compete in what may be her final event before retirement. … With a victory this week, Lydia Ko would pass Annika Sorenstam on the LPGA Tour’s all-time career money list. … The field includes eight amateurs, including top-ranked Kiara Romero and Asterisk Talley.</p> </section><section id="section-27"> <p>Last Tournament: LA Championship (Hannah Green)</p> </section><section id="section-28"> <p>Next Tournament: Mexico Riviera Maya Open, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico, April 30-May 3</p> </section><br/><section id="section-29"> <p>PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS</p> </section> <section id="section-30"> <p>THIS WEEK: Mitsubishi Electric Classic, Duluth, Ga., April 24-26</p> </section><section id="section-31"> <p>Course: TPC Sugarloaf (Par 72, 7,205 Yards)</p> </section><section id="section-32"> <p>Purse: $2M (Winner: $300,000)</p> </section><section id="section-33"> <p>Defending Champion: Jerry Kelly</p> </section><section id="section-34"> <p>Charles Schwab Cup leader: Stewart Cink</p> </section><section id="section-35"> <p>HOW TO FOLLOW</p> </section><section id="section-36"> <p>TV: Friday: 9-11 p.m. ET (Golf Channel-Tape Delay); Saturday: 3-6 p.m. (CNBC); Sunday: 3-6 p.m. (Golf Channel)</p> </section><section id="section-37"> <p>X: @ChampionsTour</p> </section><section id="section-38"> <p>NOTES: The event is moving to the Modified Stableford Scoring system. Points are awarded for: albatross (8 points), eagle (5 points), birdie (2 points), par (0 points), bogey (-1 point) and double bogey or more (-3 points). The player with the highest point total wins the event. … Kelly will make his 200th career Champions start.</p> </section><section id="section-39"> <p>Last Tournament: Senior PGA Championship (Stewart Cink)</p> </section><section id="section-40"> <p>Next Tournament: Regions Traditions, Birmingham, Ala., April 30-May 3</p> </section><section id="section-41"> <p>DP WORLD TOUR</p> </section><section id="section-42"> <p>THIS WEEK: China Open, Shanghai, April 23-26</p> </section><section id="section-43"> <p>Course: Enhance Anting GC (Par 71, 7,188 Yards)</p> </section><section id="section-44"> <p>Purse: $2.75M (Winner: $458, 333)</p> </section><section id="section-45"> <p>Defending Champion: Ashun Wu</p> </section><section id="section-46"> <p>Race to Dubai Leader: Patrick Reed</p> </section><section id="section-47"> <p>HOW TO FOLLOW</p> </section><section id="section-48"> <p>TV: Thursday-Friday: 12:30-5:30 a.m. ET; Saturday: 12:30-5 a.m.; Sunday: Midnight-5 a.m. (Golf Channel)</p> </section><section id="section-49"> <p>X: @DPWorldTour</p> </section><section id="section-50"> <p>NOTES: This is the second of four events on the 2026 Asian Swing. The player with the most points at the end of each Swing earns a $200,000 bonus. … Already a two-time winner of his national open, Wu is attempting to become the first player to win the China Open in consecutive years. He is 19-under par in his past 20 rounds at the event. France’s Alexander Levy has also won the China Open twice.</p> </section><section id="section-51"> <p>Last Tournament: Hero Indian Open (Alex Fitzpatrick)</p> </section><section id="section-52"> <p>Next Tournament: Turkish Airlines Open, Antalya, April 30-May 3</p> </section><section id="section-53"> <p>LIV GOLF LEAGUE</p> </section><section id="section-54"> <p>THIS WEEK: OFF.</p> </section><section id="section-55"> <p>2026 Season Leaders: Individual: Jon Rahm; Team: Ripper GC</p> </section><section id="section-56"> <p>Last Event: LIV Golf Mexico City (Individual: Rahm; Team: Legion XIII)</p> </section><section id="section-57"> <p>Next Event: LIV Golf Virginia, Trump National GC, May 7-10</p> </section><br/><section id="section-58"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Golf #Glance #LPGA #begins #major #season #PGA #Tours #lone #team #event

If Jaylen Brown isn’t the biggest name on the NBA trade block right now, then Kawhi Leonard probably is. The Los Angeles Clippers have yet to discuss an extension with their 35-year-old superstar entering the final year of his contract, and it’s set off speculation that a trade is imminent.

Leonard remains arguably the best wing scorer in the world when he’s healthy, but his durability has always been an issue. He played 65 games last season, which is his second-highest since 2016-2017. Any team that trades for Leonard needs to be in position to win the championship right away, which makes finding a potential suitor for him even more difficult. While a Toronto Raptors reunion appears to have real momentum behind it right now, the door is still open for another team to make a deal.

It sure feels like Leonard will be dealt before there’s any sort of ruling on his Aspiration salary cap circumvention scandal. Here are six potential Kawhi trades that make sense for both sides.

Clippers get: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, Jonathan Mogbo, 2027 first-round pick

Raptors get: Kawhi Leonard

This is the trade everyone is expecting to happen. I wonder if there’s really enough coming back to the Clippers in this trade without the inclusion of Allen Graves or Collin Murray-Boyles. I think another team can beat this offer unless Toronto is willing to throw in a second draft pick.

Clippers get: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2027 first-round pick via Atlanta

The Spurs were just in the NBA Finals, so maybe this trade feels a little too bold right now. I don’t think the Clippers would have interest in De’Aaron Fox as he starts a $228 million deal with Keaton Wagler and Darius Garland already in the backcourt, but Vassell would make sense for Los Angeles. The Spurs probably do not want to lose Vassell, and that might make this a non-starter. San Antonio certainly showed their need for more halfcourt shot-creation and shot-making during their Finals loss to the Knicks, and a deal like this could make them the championship favorites next year. It’s risky, but I like it for San Antonio, and I think this offer could win a bidding war.

Clippers get: Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, 2033 first-round pick

Nuggets get: Kawhi Leonard

The Denver Nuggets feel further away from a championship than at any other point in the Nikola Jokic era after a humbling first-round playoff loss to the Timberwolves. The 2033 first-round pick is the last real asset Denver has to build a contender around Jokic, and Leonard might be the best player they could add in terms of increasing their championship odds for next season. This is a ton to give up for Denver, but the Jokic, Leonard, Jamal Murray trio would be right there with the league’s best.

Clippers get: Jaylen Brown

Clippers get: Kawhi Leonard

This would be an all-time ‘my problem for your problem’ trade. The Celtics are reportedly motivated to deal Brown after dangling him in their Giannis offer, and this is the rare deal that could return a player potentially even better for next season. Why would the Celtics be willing to get five years older in this deal? Well, it’s possible Brown is just ready for his next chapter, but this trade would also probably make Boston cheaper and more flexible going forward. I like it as a 1-for-1 with no picks involved.

Clippers get: Duncan Robinson, Caris LeVert, Ron Holland, 2027 first-round pick

Pistons get: Kawhi Leonard

I’ll admit I can’t get the salaries to match in this deal on the trade machine, but something like this could work in broad strokes even if it has to involve a third team. A trade for Leonard would immediately vault the Pistons into championship contender status assuming he could survive a playoff run. Detroit seems ready to shake it up after trading Isaiah Stewart earlier this offseason, and Leonard truly feels like a perfect fit for what Detroit needs.

Clippers get: Paul George, Clippers 2028 first-round pick

Zach Lowe brought this one up on his podcast, and it’s so good I had to include it. The Clippers were wise to let Paul George walk to Philly in free agency, and now they can get him back in exchange for the unprotected 2028 first-round pick they once forked over for James Harden. I don’t actually think Philly would go for this, but imagine a world where Leonard and Joel Embiid stay healthy, and they’re flanked by Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, and Labaron Philon in the backcourt. Sheesh. Big risk, big reward.

#Kawhi #Leonard #trade #ideas #rumors #surround #Clippers #star">6 Kawhi Leonard trade ideas as rumors surround Clippers star  If Jaylen Brown isn’t the biggest name on the NBA trade block right now, then Kawhi Leonard probably is. The Los Angeles Clippers have yet to discuss an extension with their 35-year-old superstar entering the final year of his contract, and it’s set off speculation that a trade is imminent.Leonard remains arguably the best wing scorer in the world when he’s healthy, but his durability has always been an issue. He played 65 games last season, which is his second-highest since 2016-2017. Any team that trades for Leonard needs to be in position to win the championship right away, which makes finding a potential suitor for him even more difficult. While a Toronto Raptors reunion appears to have real momentum behind it right now, the door is still open for another team to make a deal.It sure feels like Leonard will be dealt before there’s any sort of ruling on his Aspiration salary cap circumvention scandal. Here are six potential Kawhi trades that make sense for both sides.Clippers get: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, Jonathan Mogbo, 2027 first-round pickRaptors get: Kawhi LeonardThis is the trade everyone is expecting to happen. I wonder if there’s really enough coming back to the Clippers in this trade without the inclusion of Allen Graves or Collin Murray-Boyles. I think another team can beat this offer unless Toronto is willing to throw in a second draft pick.Clippers get: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2027 first-round pick via AtlantaThe Spurs were just in the NBA Finals, so maybe this trade feels a little too bold right now. I don’t think the Clippers would have interest in De’Aaron Fox as he starts a 8 million deal with Keaton Wagler and Darius Garland already in the backcourt, but Vassell would make sense for Los Angeles. The Spurs probably do not want to lose Vassell, and that might make this a non-starter. San Antonio certainly showed their need for more halfcourt shot-creation and shot-making during their Finals loss to the Knicks, and a deal like this could make them the championship favorites next year. It’s risky, but I like it for San Antonio, and I think this offer could win a bidding war.Clippers get: Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, 2033 first-round pickNuggets get: Kawhi LeonardThe Denver Nuggets feel further away from a championship than at any other point in the Nikola Jokic era after a humbling first-round playoff loss to the Timberwolves. The 2033 first-round pick is the last real asset Denver has to build a contender around Jokic, and Leonard might be the best player they could add in terms of increasing their championship odds for next season. This is a ton to give up for Denver, but the Jokic, Leonard, Jamal Murray trio would be right there with the league’s best.Clippers get: Jaylen BrownClippers get: Kawhi LeonardThis would be an all-time ‘my problem for your problem’ trade. The Celtics are reportedly motivated to deal Brown after dangling him in their Giannis offer, and this is the rare deal that could return a player potentially even better for next season. Why would the Celtics be willing to get five years older in this deal? Well, it’s possible Brown is just ready for his next chapter, but this trade would also probably make Boston cheaper and more flexible going forward. I like it as a 1-for-1 with no picks involved.Clippers get: Duncan Robinson, Caris LeVert, Ron Holland, 2027 first-round pickPistons get: Kawhi LeonardI’ll admit I can’t get the salaries to match in this deal on the trade machine, but something like this could work in broad strokes even if it has to involve a third team. A trade for Leonard would immediately vault the Pistons into championship contender status assuming he could survive a playoff run. Detroit seems ready to shake it up after trading Isaiah Stewart earlier this offseason, and Leonard truly feels like a perfect fit for what Detroit needs.Clippers get: Paul George, Clippers 2028 first-round pickZach Lowe brought this one up on his podcast, and it’s so good I had to include it. The Clippers were wise to let Paul George walk to Philly in free agency, and now they can get him back in exchange for the unprotected 2028 first-round pick they once forked over for James Harden. I don’t actually think Philly would go for this, but imagine a world where Leonard and Joel Embiid stay healthy, and they’re flanked by Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, and Labaron Philon in the backcourt. Sheesh. Big risk, big reward.  #Kawhi #Leonard #trade #ideas #rumors #surround #Clippers #star

If Jaylen Brown isn’t the biggest name on the NBA trade block right now, then Kawhi Leonard probably is. The Los Angeles Clippers have yet to discuss an extension with their 35-year-old superstar entering the final year of his contract, and it’s set off speculation that a trade is imminent.

Leonard remains arguably the best wing scorer in the world when he’s healthy, but his durability has always been an issue. He played 65 games last season, which is his second-highest since 2016-2017. Any team that trades for Leonard needs to be in position to win the championship right away, which makes finding a potential suitor for him even more difficult. While a Toronto Raptors reunion appears to have real momentum behind it right now, the door is still open for another team to make a deal.

It sure feels like Leonard will be dealt before there’s any sort of ruling on his Aspiration salary cap circumvention scandal. Here are six potential Kawhi trades that make sense for both sides.

Clippers get: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, Jonathan Mogbo, 2027 first-round pick

Raptors get: Kawhi Leonard

This is the trade everyone is expecting to happen. I wonder if there’s really enough coming back to the Clippers in this trade without the inclusion of Allen Graves or Collin Murray-Boyles. I think another team can beat this offer unless Toronto is willing to throw in a second draft pick.

Clippers get: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2027 first-round pick via Atlanta

The Spurs were just in the NBA Finals, so maybe this trade feels a little too bold right now. I don’t think the Clippers would have interest in De’Aaron Fox as he starts a $228 million deal with Keaton Wagler and Darius Garland already in the backcourt, but Vassell would make sense for Los Angeles. The Spurs probably do not want to lose Vassell, and that might make this a non-starter. San Antonio certainly showed their need for more halfcourt shot-creation and shot-making during their Finals loss to the Knicks, and a deal like this could make them the championship favorites next year. It’s risky, but I like it for San Antonio, and I think this offer could win a bidding war.

Clippers get: Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, 2033 first-round pick

Nuggets get: Kawhi Leonard

The Denver Nuggets feel further away from a championship than at any other point in the Nikola Jokic era after a humbling first-round playoff loss to the Timberwolves. The 2033 first-round pick is the last real asset Denver has to build a contender around Jokic, and Leonard might be the best player they could add in terms of increasing their championship odds for next season. This is a ton to give up for Denver, but the Jokic, Leonard, Jamal Murray trio would be right there with the league’s best.

Clippers get: Jaylen Brown

Clippers get: Kawhi Leonard

This would be an all-time ‘my problem for your problem’ trade. The Celtics are reportedly motivated to deal Brown after dangling him in their Giannis offer, and this is the rare deal that could return a player potentially even better for next season. Why would the Celtics be willing to get five years older in this deal? Well, it’s possible Brown is just ready for his next chapter, but this trade would also probably make Boston cheaper and more flexible going forward. I like it as a 1-for-1 with no picks involved.

Clippers get: Duncan Robinson, Caris LeVert, Ron Holland, 2027 first-round pick

Pistons get: Kawhi Leonard

I’ll admit I can’t get the salaries to match in this deal on the trade machine, but something like this could work in broad strokes even if it has to involve a third team. A trade for Leonard would immediately vault the Pistons into championship contender status assuming he could survive a playoff run. Detroit seems ready to shake it up after trading Isaiah Stewart earlier this offseason, and Leonard truly feels like a perfect fit for what Detroit needs.

Clippers get: Paul George, Clippers 2028 first-round pick

Zach Lowe brought this one up on his podcast, and it’s so good I had to include it. The Clippers were wise to let Paul George walk to Philly in free agency, and now they can get him back in exchange for the unprotected 2028 first-round pick they once forked over for James Harden. I don’t actually think Philly would go for this, but imagine a world where Leonard and Joel Embiid stay healthy, and they’re flanked by Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, and Labaron Philon in the backcourt. Sheesh. Big risk, big reward.

#Kawhi #Leonard #trade #ideas #rumors #surround #Clippers #star">6 Kawhi Leonard trade ideas as rumors surround Clippers star

If Jaylen Brown isn’t the biggest name on the NBA trade block right now, then Kawhi Leonard probably is. The Los Angeles Clippers have yet to discuss an extension with their 35-year-old superstar entering the final year of his contract, and it’s set off speculation that a trade is imminent.

Leonard remains arguably the best wing scorer in the world when he’s healthy, but his durability has always been an issue. He played 65 games last season, which is his second-highest since 2016-2017. Any team that trades for Leonard needs to be in position to win the championship right away, which makes finding a potential suitor for him even more difficult. While a Toronto Raptors reunion appears to have real momentum behind it right now, the door is still open for another team to make a deal.

It sure feels like Leonard will be dealt before there’s any sort of ruling on his Aspiration salary cap circumvention scandal. Here are six potential Kawhi trades that make sense for both sides.

Clippers get: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, Jonathan Mogbo, 2027 first-round pick

Raptors get: Kawhi Leonard

This is the trade everyone is expecting to happen. I wonder if there’s really enough coming back to the Clippers in this trade without the inclusion of Allen Graves or Collin Murray-Boyles. I think another team can beat this offer unless Toronto is willing to throw in a second draft pick.

Clippers get: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2027 first-round pick via Atlanta

The Spurs were just in the NBA Finals, so maybe this trade feels a little too bold right now. I don’t think the Clippers would have interest in De’Aaron Fox as he starts a $228 million deal with Keaton Wagler and Darius Garland already in the backcourt, but Vassell would make sense for Los Angeles. The Spurs probably do not want to lose Vassell, and that might make this a non-starter. San Antonio certainly showed their need for more halfcourt shot-creation and shot-making during their Finals loss to the Knicks, and a deal like this could make them the championship favorites next year. It’s risky, but I like it for San Antonio, and I think this offer could win a bidding war.

Clippers get: Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, 2033 first-round pick

Nuggets get: Kawhi Leonard

The Denver Nuggets feel further away from a championship than at any other point in the Nikola Jokic era after a humbling first-round playoff loss to the Timberwolves. The 2033 first-round pick is the last real asset Denver has to build a contender around Jokic, and Leonard might be the best player they could add in terms of increasing their championship odds for next season. This is a ton to give up for Denver, but the Jokic, Leonard, Jamal Murray trio would be right there with the league’s best.

Clippers get: Jaylen Brown

Clippers get: Kawhi Leonard

This would be an all-time ‘my problem for your problem’ trade. The Celtics are reportedly motivated to deal Brown after dangling him in their Giannis offer, and this is the rare deal that could return a player potentially even better for next season. Why would the Celtics be willing to get five years older in this deal? Well, it’s possible Brown is just ready for his next chapter, but this trade would also probably make Boston cheaper and more flexible going forward. I like it as a 1-for-1 with no picks involved.

Clippers get: Duncan Robinson, Caris LeVert, Ron Holland, 2027 first-round pick

Pistons get: Kawhi Leonard

I’ll admit I can’t get the salaries to match in this deal on the trade machine, but something like this could work in broad strokes even if it has to involve a third team. A trade for Leonard would immediately vault the Pistons into championship contender status assuming he could survive a playoff run. Detroit seems ready to shake it up after trading Isaiah Stewart earlier this offseason, and Leonard truly feels like a perfect fit for what Detroit needs.

Clippers get: Paul George, Clippers 2028 first-round pick

Zach Lowe brought this one up on his podcast, and it’s so good I had to include it. The Clippers were wise to let Paul George walk to Philly in free agency, and now they can get him back in exchange for the unprotected 2028 first-round pick they once forked over for James Harden. I don’t actually think Philly would go for this, but imagine a world where Leonard and Joel Embiid stay healthy, and they’re flanked by Tyrese Maxey, V.J. Edgecombe, and Labaron Philon in the backcourt. Sheesh. Big risk, big reward.

#Kawhi #Leonard #trade #ideas #rumors #surround #Clippers #star

Sweden will need to produce the performance of a ​lifetime to topple World Cup powerhouses France in their round-of-32 ‌clash, coach Graham Potter said on Monday, ​as his young outfit prepare to face ⁠a side with “quality all over”.

Sweden squeaked into the tournament after a miserable qualifying campaign and will proudly wear the underdog ‌tag against France on Tuesday after an erratic group-stage campaign, where they beat Tunisia 5-1 ‌but lost to the Netherlands by the same ‌scoreline.

Kylian ⁠Mbappe-led France, which romped into the knockouts with ⁠three straight wins, is nearly unbeatable, according to former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Potter knows his side will need to ​produce something special.

“We have ‌to be as close to perfect as we can be,” Potter said. “We know the quality of the opponent and we have full respect for that.”

Sweden’s hopes ‌rest on a youthful squad with limited World ​Cup experience, anchored by veteran defender Victor Lindelof, who can also be utilised in ⁠midfield.

MATCH REPORT | Paraguay knocks Germany out of FIFA World Cup

Potter shuffled his Sweden deck during its 1-1 draw with Japan, starting the Aston Villa centre back in midfield ‌before moving him back to defence.

“This is for many the first tournament with a tough journey to get as far as here,” said Lindelof.

“This is our World Cup adventure that’s at stake and we don’t want that to end.”

Potter divulged little of his ‌plans for Tuesday’s lineup during a pre-match press conference. Asked where ​he saw weaknesses to exploit in the France defence, the former Chelsea and West Ham ⁠United manager declined to entertain the idea that any ⁠weakness exists at all.

“I’m not sure weakness is necessarily a word I would use to describe ‌this French side. They’ve got quality all over,” said Potter. “We have to play the game of ​our lives.”

Published on Jun 30, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Weaknesses #hard #find #France #defence #Sweden #coach #Potter">FIFA World Cup 2026: Weaknesses hard to find in France defence, says Sweden coach Potter  Sweden will need to produce the performance of a ​lifetime to topple World Cup powerhouses France in their round-of-32 ‌clash, coach Graham Potter said on Monday, ​as his young outfit prepare to face ⁠a side with “quality all over”.Sweden squeaked into the tournament after a miserable qualifying campaign and will proudly wear the underdog ‌tag against France on Tuesday after an erratic group-stage campaign, where they beat Tunisia 5-1 ‌but lost to the Netherlands by the same ‌scoreline.Kylian ⁠Mbappe-led France, which romped into the knockouts with ⁠three straight wins, is nearly unbeatable, according to former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Potter knows his side will need to ​produce something special.“We have ‌to be as close to perfect as we can be,” Potter said. “We know the quality of the opponent and we have full respect for that.”Sweden’s hopes ‌rest on a youthful squad with limited World ​Cup experience, anchored by veteran defender Victor Lindelof, who can also be utilised in ⁠midfield.MATCH REPORT | Paraguay knocks Germany out of FIFA World CupPotter shuffled his Sweden deck during its 1-1 draw with Japan, starting the Aston Villa centre back in midfield ‌before moving him back to defence.“This is for many the first tournament with a tough journey to get as far as here,” said Lindelof.“This is our World Cup adventure that’s at stake and we don’t want that to end.”Potter divulged little of his ‌plans for Tuesday’s lineup during a pre-match press conference. Asked where ​he saw weaknesses to exploit in the France defence, the former Chelsea and West Ham ⁠United manager declined to entertain the idea that any ⁠weakness exists at all.“I’m not sure weakness is necessarily a word I would use to describe ‌this French side. They’ve got quality all over,” said Potter. “We have to play the game of ​our lives.”Published on Jun 30, 2026  #FIFA #World #Cup #Weaknesses #hard #find #France #defence #Sweden #coach #Potter

Paraguay knocks Germany out of FIFA World Cup

Potter shuffled his Sweden deck during its 1-1 draw with Japan, starting the Aston Villa centre back in midfield ‌before moving him back to defence.

“This is for many the first tournament with a tough journey to get as far as here,” said Lindelof.

“This is our World Cup adventure that’s at stake and we don’t want that to end.”

Potter divulged little of his ‌plans for Tuesday’s lineup during a pre-match press conference. Asked where ​he saw weaknesses to exploit in the France defence, the former Chelsea and West Ham ⁠United manager declined to entertain the idea that any ⁠weakness exists at all.

“I’m not sure weakness is necessarily a word I would use to describe ‌this French side. They’ve got quality all over,” said Potter. “We have to play the game of ​our lives.”

Published on Jun 30, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Weaknesses #hard #find #France #defence #Sweden #coach #Potter">FIFA World Cup 2026: Weaknesses hard to find in France defence, says Sweden coach Potter

Sweden will need to produce the performance of a ​lifetime to topple World Cup powerhouses France in their round-of-32 ‌clash, coach Graham Potter said on Monday, ​as his young outfit prepare to face ⁠a side with “quality all over”.

Sweden squeaked into the tournament after a miserable qualifying campaign and will proudly wear the underdog ‌tag against France on Tuesday after an erratic group-stage campaign, where they beat Tunisia 5-1 ‌but lost to the Netherlands by the same ‌scoreline.

Kylian ⁠Mbappe-led France, which romped into the knockouts with ⁠three straight wins, is nearly unbeatable, according to former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Potter knows his side will need to ​produce something special.

“We have ‌to be as close to perfect as we can be,” Potter said. “We know the quality of the opponent and we have full respect for that.”

Sweden’s hopes ‌rest on a youthful squad with limited World ​Cup experience, anchored by veteran defender Victor Lindelof, who can also be utilised in ⁠midfield.

MATCH REPORT | Paraguay knocks Germany out of FIFA World Cup

Potter shuffled his Sweden deck during its 1-1 draw with Japan, starting the Aston Villa centre back in midfield ‌before moving him back to defence.

“This is for many the first tournament with a tough journey to get as far as here,” said Lindelof.

“This is our World Cup adventure that’s at stake and we don’t want that to end.”

Potter divulged little of his ‌plans for Tuesday’s lineup during a pre-match press conference. Asked where ​he saw weaknesses to exploit in the France defence, the former Chelsea and West Ham ⁠United manager declined to entertain the idea that any ⁠weakness exists at all.

“I’m not sure weakness is necessarily a word I would use to describe ‌this French side. They’ve got quality all over,” said Potter. “We have to play the game of ​our lives.”

Published on Jun 30, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Weaknesses #hard #find #France #defence #Sweden #coach #Potter

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