At 41, LeBron James Is Still Dominating the NBA Playoffs | Deadspin.com Feb 1, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images LeBron James proved during Game 2 that he could still unlock the height of his powers when required.Without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Lakers are the talk of the NBA Playoffs. Los Angeles has taken a commanding 2-0 lead over the Houston Rockets after a narrow win on Tuesday night.James has been stellar in this series. But in Game 2, his 28 points in 39 minutes helped power the Lakers over the Rockets, who had returned Kevin Durant from injury.Durant hasn’t beaten James in an NBA Playoff game without Stephen Curry since 2011. When James takes a 2-0 lead in an NBA Playoff series, his teams are 32-0. This spells real trouble for the Rockets, who will return home for Game 3 on Friday evening.James was spectacular in Game 2. Even though his son, Bronny, stole some of the attention in Game 1 for throwing his dad a few entry passes in the NBA Playoffs, the 41-year-old has been phenomenal without Doncic and Reaves, the top two scorers on the Lakers.The Rockets came into this series as heavy favorites, priced at -600 to -750 on most major sportsbooks. Now, the popular prediction market, Kalshi, gives the Rockets just 46% probability of winning this series. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: basketball Of course, when this thing flips back to Texas, and Durant gets his legs back under him, the Rockets could still turn this thing around. Without Doncic and Reaves, the Lakers have been leaning almost completely on James to lead them to victory. For two games, it worked. There’s no guarantee that it can hold up.Regardless of that, what James has done in these first two games is remarkable. He has 80 25/5/5 statlines in the NBA Playoffs since he turned 30. He had 75 of those games before he turned 30. Michael Jordan had 73 of those games in his entire career.James has completely lapped his peers. Carmelo Anthony was celebrated earlier this year for an induction into the basketball hall of fame. Chris Paul was somewhat abruptly forced into retirement.Other aging NBA stars, including Curry and Kawhi Leonard, are already enjoying the NBA Playoffs from home. It’s supposed to be a young man’s league dominated by teams like the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.But old man James might have something to say about that. In just two nights, the Lakers have flipped from +10000 to win the Western Conference to +2500.If James can keep this up for two more victories and eliminate Durant’s Rockets, it’ll be one of the coolest stories that the NBA Playoffs have ever seen. Sure, it’s just the first round. But James handling business without Doncic and Reaves, at his advanced age, is insane.On Tuesday night, James threw down a reverse windmill dunk. He was moving around like a player in their early 30s – not early 40s. Prior to this series, there was a report that indicated that James doesn’t want a farewell tour and the pressure that comes with it. But this display in the postseason will only make fans want one more season, as it’ll feel like James would be stepping away from the game with plenty of gas in the tank if he decides to retire.He’s an NBA legend that has nothing to prove. He has all of the records. He has all of the accolades. But enjoy what he’s doing right now. No 41-year-old has ever done this, and it likely will never happen again. #LeBron #James #Dominating #NBA #Playoffs #Deadspin.com

At 41, LeBron James Is Still Dominating the NBA Playoffs | Deadspin.com
Feb 1, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

LeBron James proved during Game 2 that he could still unlock the height of his powers when required.
Without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Lakers are the talk of the NBA Playoffs. Los Angeles has taken a commanding 2-0 lead over the Houston Rockets after a narrow win on Tuesday night.
James has been stellar in this series. But in Game 2, his 28 points in 39 minutes helped power the Lakers over the Rockets, who had returned Kevin Durant from injury.
Durant hasn’t beaten James in an NBA Playoff game without Stephen Curry since 2011. When James takes a 2-0 lead in an NBA Playoff series, his teams are 32-0. This spells real trouble for the Rockets, who will return home for Game 3 on Friday evening.
James was spectacular in Game 2. Even though his son, Bronny, stole some of the attention in Game 1 for throwing his dad a few entry passes in the NBA Playoffs, the 41-year-old has been phenomenal without Doncic and Reaves, the top two scorers on the Lakers.
The Rockets came into this series as heavy favorites, priced at -600 to -750 on most major sportsbooks. Now, the popular prediction market, Kalshi, gives the Rockets just 46% probability of winning this series.

Our Current Best Offers
Channel debug: basketball

Of course, when this thing flips back to Texas, and Durant gets his legs back under him, the Rockets could still turn this thing around. Without Doncic and Reaves, the Lakers have been leaning almost completely on James to lead them to victory. For two games, it worked. There’s no guarantee that it can hold up.
Regardless of that, what James has done in these first two games is remarkable. He has 80 25/5/5 statlines in the NBA Playoffs since he turned 30. He had 75 of those games before he turned 30. Michael Jordan had 73 of those games in his entire career.
James has completely lapped his peers. Carmelo Anthony was celebrated earlier this year for an induction into the basketball hall of fame. Chris Paul was somewhat abruptly forced into retirement.
Other aging NBA stars, including Curry and Kawhi Leonard, are already enjoying the NBA Playoffs from home. It’s supposed to be a young man’s league dominated by teams like the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.
But old man James might have something to say about that. In just two nights, the Lakers have flipped from +10000 to win the Western Conference to +2500.
If James can keep this up for two more victories and eliminate Durant’s Rockets, it’ll be one of the coolest stories that the NBA Playoffs have ever seen. Sure, it’s just the first round. But James handling business without Doncic and Reaves, at his advanced age, is insane.
On Tuesday night, James threw down a reverse windmill dunk. He was moving around like a player in their early 30s – not early 40s. Prior to this series, there was a report that indicated that James doesn’t want a farewell tour and the pressure that comes with it. But this display in the postseason will only make fans want one more season, as it’ll feel like James would be stepping away from the game with plenty of gas in the tank if he decides to retire.
He’s an NBA legend that has nothing to prove. He has all of the records. He has all of the accolades. But enjoy what he’s doing right now. No 41-year-old has ever done this, and it likely will never happen again.

#LeBron #James #Dominating #NBA #Playoffs #Deadspin.com

Sports news April 22, 2026

Feb 1, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

LeBron James proved during Game 2 that he could still unlock the height of his powers when required.

Without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the Lakers are the talk of the NBA Playoffs. Los Angeles has taken a commanding 2-0 lead over the Houston Rockets after a narrow win on Tuesday night.

James has been stellar in this series. But in Game 2, his 28 points in 39 minutes helped power the Lakers over the Rockets, who had returned Kevin Durant from injury.

Durant hasn’t beaten James in an NBA Playoff game without Stephen Curry since 2011. When James takes a 2-0 lead in an NBA Playoff series, his teams are 32-0. This spells real trouble for the Rockets, who will return home for Game 3 on Friday evening.

James was spectacular in Game 2. Even though his son, Bronny, stole some of the attention in Game 1 for throwing his dad a few entry passes in the NBA Playoffs, the 41-year-old has been phenomenal without Doncic and Reaves, the top two scorers on the Lakers.

The Rockets came into this series as heavy favorites, priced at -600 to -750 on most major sportsbooks. Now, the popular prediction market, Kalshi, gives the Rockets just 46% probability of winning this series.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: basketball

Of course, when this thing flips back to Texas, and Durant gets his legs back under him, the Rockets could still turn this thing around. Without Doncic and Reaves, the Lakers have been leaning almost completely on James to lead them to victory. For two games, it worked. There’s no guarantee that it can hold up.

Regardless of that, what James has done in these first two games is remarkable. He has 80 25/5/5 statlines in the NBA Playoffs since he turned 30. He had 75 of those games before he turned 30. Michael Jordan had 73 of those games in his entire career.

James has completely lapped his peers. Carmelo Anthony was celebrated earlier this year for an induction into the basketball hall of fame. Chris Paul was somewhat abruptly forced into retirement.

Other aging NBA stars, including Curry and Kawhi Leonard, are already enjoying the NBA Playoffs from home. It’s supposed to be a young man’s league dominated by teams like the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.

But old man James might have something to say about that. In just two nights, the Lakers have flipped from +10000 to win the Western Conference to +2500.

If James can keep this up for two more victories and eliminate Durant’s Rockets, it’ll be one of the coolest stories that the NBA Playoffs have ever seen. Sure, it’s just the first round. But James handling business without Doncic and Reaves, at his advanced age, is insane.

On Tuesday night, James threw down a reverse windmill dunk. He was moving around like a player in their early 30s – not early 40s. Prior to this series, there was a report that indicated that James doesn’t want a farewell tour and the pressure that comes with it. But this display in the postseason will only make fans want one more season, as it’ll feel like James would be stepping away from the game with plenty of gas in the tank if he decides to retire.

He’s an NBA legend that has nothing to prove. He has all of the records. He has all of the accolades. But enjoy what he’s doing right now. No 41-year-old has ever done this, and it likely will never happen again.

Source link
#LeBron #James #Dominating #NBA #Playoffs #Deadspin.com

NFL Draft rumors on Bears name that ‘keeps coming up,’ Giants’ plans in the top-10, and more <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">We are almost there, friends.</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">Depending on when exactly you are reading this, the 2026 NFL Draft is just over 24 hours away. Again, we know what will happen at No. 1, which is when the Las Vegas Raiders will select quarterback Fernando Mendoza. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111616/fernando-mendoza-interview-nfl-draft-faith-family-recruiting-journey">Read SB Nation’s exclusive interview with Mendoza</a> for more on his journey from two-star recruit to No. 1 overall draft pick.</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 round up the latest guesses in today’s spin around the carousel of rumors.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Run on offensive tackles?</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">Could the 2026 NFL Draft see a run on offensive tackles, inside the first 15 selections?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That is the scenario contemplated by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, who shared this on social media Tuesday:</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">Fowler is not alone in thinking that offensive linemen could be a big part of the discussion on Thursday night. His ESPN colleague Dan Graziano <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">wrote this on Wednesday morning</a>:</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">I’m predicting at least seven and as many as 10 offensive linemen get picked in the first round. There’s a late-round zone loaded with teams that would love to come out of Thursday night with a new offensive lineman, including the Lions, Panthers, Steelers, Chargers, Eagles, Browns, Bears, 49ers, Chiefs and Patriots. Kansas City could even use its No. 9 pick on an offensive tackle and no one would be surprised. Baltimore could take Ioane at No. 14, if he’s there.</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">In our most <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111419/nfl-mock-draft-2026-after-dexter-lawrence-giants-bengals-trade">recent mock draft</a>, we had seven offensive linemen coming off the board, right in line with Graziano’s prediction. However, the “run” on offensive tackles did not come until the 20s, with the Philadelphia Eagles taking Blake Miller at No. 23 and the Cleveland Browns adding Max Iheanachor at No. 24.</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 it looks like that run could happen earlier.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">What are the Giants thinking, redux?</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">Ever since the New York Giants swung the big Dexter Lawrence trade, we have been trying to decipher their plans for both No. 5, and No. 10. That was a focus on <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111480/nfl-draft-rumors-fallers-ty-simpson-jeremiya-love">Monday’s rumors roundup</a>, and we revisit their plans here today.</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">On Monday we discussed reporting from Connor Hughes of <em>SNY</em>, who mentioned Sonny Styles, Jeremiyah Love, and Caleb Downs as options at No. 5. Hughes also believes that a trade would be possible if somehow David Bailey were on the board when the Giants were on the clock at No. 5. Then at No. 10, offensive linemen come into play, as well as wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.</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, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">Graziano notes</a> that from what he has been told, at No. 5 “their most likely picks would be Love (if he’s still there) or Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. Multiple people have told me they believe Downs would be the Giants’ pick even ahead of linebacker Sonny Styles, Downs’ college teammate.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As for No. 10, if it is not Tyson then Graziano believes they will draft an offensive lineman.</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">Who might that be? Graziano mentions Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane, which is in line with a name I’ve been hearing more and more regarding that pick at No. 10. Stay tuned …</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Jermod McCoy’s injury concerns</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">Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy’s injury concerns remain a talking point as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.</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">According to longtime NFL Draft analyst Tony Pauline, some teams have deemed his injured knee — he missed 2025 following ACL surgery — a “degenerative” condition:</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">Additional reporting indicates that McCoy might need an additional surgery to replace a “bone plug” used to repair a “cartilage defect” in that knee, and that the concerns are not related to the initial ACL repair:</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 is starting to feel like last year with Will Johnson, the cornerback who was considered a top-ten pick but fell to the Arizona Cardinals in the second round due to his own injury history.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Ty Simpson still an option for the Rams?</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">Early in mock draft season, Ty Simpson was a popular pick for the Los Angeles Rams with their pick at the end of 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">I should know, I feel like I made that pick in more than a few mock drafts myself …</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 when the Rams used that pick in a trade for cornerback Trent McDuffie, it seemed to end the dreams of Simpson landing in Los Angeles to learn from Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay. Now, the Rams have just one pick in the first 60 selections — the pick they received from the Atlanta Falcons at No. 13 — and with Stafford having just put pen to paper on a new contract, getting a player that can help right away seems like the pressing need.</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">Graziano is not so sure, and <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">makes the case that Simpson</a> could still be in play, whether via a trade down or even at No. 13:</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">But as I said, the Rams don’t appear to have any crying needs for which the 13th pick could help them in their effort to win the Super Bowl at home. So, could they trade down from No. 13 and still take Simpson later in the round? Possibly. Could they just bite the bullet and take Simpson at No. 13 if they like him that much? Unlikely, but again, this is a tough team to predict.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">If the Rams take Simpson in the first round, they’re likely to face criticism for not finding immediate help for a win-now team with 38-year-old reigning MVP Matthew Stafford at quarterback. But would they care? This is the “F— them picks” franchise, remember? If they truly believe Simpson has the potential to be Stafford’s successor, I don’t think it’s ridiculous to think they could go ahead and take him.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Add in that division-rival Arizona — which many believe is the real team to watch for Simpson — holds the 34th pick and would be a candidate to either draft him there or trade back into the first round to land him and it makes the Rams/Simpson theories a little bit spicier.</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">Again, even Graziano says Simpson at No. 13 is “unlikely,” but the Rams are a tough team to predict this, and every, year.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">What about the Chicago Bears 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">We have not talked about the Chicago Bears much during the run to 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">So let’s change that a bit.</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">Early in the draft cycle, defensive line was a popular position for the Bears to address in mock drafts. That often came in the form of pass rushers such as Missouri’s Zion Young or Clemson’s T.J. Parker, or even through defensive tackles such as Kayden MacDonald from Ohio State.</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">Recently, safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren has become a popular pick for them in that spot. According to consensus mock drafts as <a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/teams/2026/chicago-bears">compiled by <em>NFL Mock Draft Database</em></a><em>, </em>he is the most popular pick for the Bears over the past week.</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 one insider believes the Bears have made up their mind, and are targeting Auburn’s Keldric Faulk because of how he would fit with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“One name that kind of keeps coming up is a fit for Dennis Allen: Keldric Faulk from Auburn,” <em>Sports Illustrated’s </em>Albert Breer said <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/onsi/bears-nfl-draft-rumors-bears-options-news">recently on <em>ESPN 1000</em></a><em>. </em></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Cowboys trading … down?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In recent weeks, the idea of the Dallas Cowboys trading up in the first round to secure one of the premium defensive prospects has become a popular theory. In our most recent mock draft, for example, we had the Cowboys trading all the way up to No. 3 to pick Arvell Reese. Others believe the Cowboys would move to No. 6 in a deal with the Cleveland Browns.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But is it more likely that the Cowboys move … down?</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 what <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">Graziano believes</a>, who wrote this on Wednesday morning:</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">I would actually say it’s more likely the Cowboys trade down from No. 20 than up from No. 12. They need a ton of help on defense and would love it if Styles, Downs or LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane fell to them at No. 12; they could get to work addressing the other positional needs at No. 20 and later. Dallas also doesn’t have a second-round pick (it belongs to the Jets from the Quinnen Williams trade), which is why I’ve been told to watch out for the Cowboys to trade down from No. 20 to try to recoup some Day 2 capital.</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">The point about Dallas lacking a second-round pick is important. As with every draft class, there are solid prospects to be found on Day 2, players who could contribute immediately while not having the same upside as the prospects who will come off the board Thursday night. Dallas could find, for example, a pass rusher early on Day 2 if they trade back, with players like T.J. Parker, Cashius Howell, Zion Young, Malachi Lawrence, R Mason Thomas, and Gabe Jacas all expected to be second-round selections.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Could the Jaguars move up?</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">Thanks to the trade for Travis Hunter Jr. last year, the Jacksonville Jaguars do not have a pick on Thursday night.</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">Jacksonville beat writer John Shipley, who is as <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/jaguars/onsi/jacksonville-draft-rumors-what-real-smokescreen">plugged-in as it gets down in Duval</a>, wrote Wednesday morning that the idea of the Jaguars trading back into the first round is not as far-fetched as one might believe.</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">With that said, it is hard to ignore the possibility of the Jaguars moving up for a few reasons. For one, they have 11 picks this year and a projected 10 picks in 2027. Having 21 picks in that span gives the Jaguars the ammo neccesary to attempt to move back into the first, whether they would do it in one big move or via multiple trades.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">With four picks in the top-100, the Jaguars could find a trade package worth enticing teams. Looking at the state of the Jaguars’ roster, it is hard to say they will have 11 open spots on the 53-man roster. This isn’t to say I believe the Jaguars ultimately will do it — I think it needs to be the right set of circumstances and for specific targets.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">What I am saying on this, though, is to not discount the idea. It has been floated enough as a possibility outside of Jacksonville enough in recent days to at least consider it being a realistic priority.</p></blockquote></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As for who the Jaguars would target via a trade back into the first round, Shipley notes that “[l]ogic says a top defender who is falling.” However, he also reminds us that head coach Liam Coen has his mind on the offense, and would “likely … not have any issues with taking a top-rated playmaker either.”</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 only player Shipley mentions by name in this scenario? Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq.</p></div></div> #NFL #Draft #rumors #Bears #coming #Giants #plans #top10

Deadspin | Giants’ Landen Roupp on a roll entering series finale vs. Marlins Apr 4, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Landen Roupp (65) delivers a pitch against the New York Mets during the fourth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images A pair of 27-year-old right-handers who are off to successful starts will face relatively unfamiliar opponents on Sunday afternoon when Max Meyer and the Miami Marlins close a three-game road series against Landen Roupp and the San Francisco Giants. The teams have split the first two games of the set, with the Giants drawing even Saturday in a 6-2 win after the Marlins dominated the opener 9-4. Meyer (1-0, 3.96 ERA) has allowed no more than three runs in any of his outings this season, with Miami winning three of his five starts. He limited the St. Louis Cardinals to two runs and three hits over 5 1/3 innings on Monday, striking out a season-best eight in his team’s 5-3 home win. The fourth-year major-leaguer has never faced the Giants, who experienced an interesting situation on Saturday when designated hitter Casey Schmitt slipped rounding second base in the second inning of a scoreless game, eventually costing San Francisco a run. But Schmitt responded with a tie-breaking, two-run home run four innings later, giving the hosts a lead they never relinquished. Giants manager Tony Vitello insisted to reporters afterward that he was not surprised how the sequence of events unfolded. “He makes the coaches feel comfortable around him because he’s not afraid to laugh at himself, which we all have to do because we all make mistakes,” Vitello noted of Schmitt. “He wants to win. When an obstacle comes up, he gets a little more determined. I don’t think it’s a coincidence (the home run) happened.” The Giants’ Roupp (4-1, 2.28 ERA) has been the club’s best starter in the early going, including a current three-game personal winning streak in which he held the Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers to a total of two runs and seven hits in 17 innings, striking out 17. He has won his last two starts despite getting just three runs of support in each. Roupp has thrown just one inning against the Marlins in his three-year career, a hitless ninth in a 7-5 home loss in September 2024. The right-hander will have to deal with a lineup that’s been much more productive against righty pitchers this season, including the season-high-tying, 16-hit outburst in a game started by right-hander Adrian Houser on Friday. The Marlins weren’t nearly as effective Saturday as the Giants threw three left-handers, including starter Robbie Ray. Miami began the weekend with the third-highest team batting average in baseball (.276) against right-handers. Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said he loved watching the show Friday, one in which his team put up nine or more runs for the fourth time this season. All four surges have come in games started by opposing right-handers. “From the very beginning I thought our approach was outstanding,” McCullough said after Friday’s win. “Our swing decisions were outstanding. It was just a real offensive clinic, one through nine, with the type of quality at-bats.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Giants #Landen #Roupp #roll #entering #series #finale #Marlins

#Deadspin #Giants #Landen #Roupp #roll #entering #series #finale #Marlins">

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Apr 4, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Landen Roupp (65) delivers a pitch against the New York Mets during the fourth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

A pair of 27-year-old right-handers who are off to successful starts will face relatively unfamiliar opponents on Sunday afternoon when Max Meyer and the Miami Marlins close a three-game road series against Landen Roupp and the San Francisco Giants.

The teams have split the first two games of the set, with the Giants drawing even Saturday in a 6-2 win after the Marlins dominated the opener 9-4.

Meyer (1-0, 3.96 ERA) has allowed no more than three runs in any of his outings this season, with Miami winning three of his five starts. He limited the St. Louis Cardinals to two runs and three hits over 5 1/3 innings on Monday, striking out a season-best eight in his team’s 5-3 home win.

The fourth-year major-leaguer has never faced the Giants, who experienced an interesting situation on Saturday when designated hitter Casey Schmitt slipped rounding second base in the second inning of a scoreless game, eventually costing San Francisco a run. But Schmitt responded with a tie-breaking, two-run home run four innings later, giving the hosts a lead they never relinquished.

Giants manager Tony Vitello insisted to reporters afterward that he was not surprised how the sequence of events unfolded.

“He makes the coaches feel comfortable around him because he’s not afraid to laugh at himself, which we all have to do because we all make mistakes,” Vitello noted of Schmitt. “He wants to win. When an obstacle comes up, he gets a little more determined. I don’t think it’s a coincidence (the home run) happened.”

The Giants’ Roupp (4-1, 2.28 ERA) has been the club’s best starter in the early going, including a current three-game personal winning streak in which he held the Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers to a total of two runs and seven hits in 17 innings, striking out 17. He has won his last two starts despite getting just three runs of support in each.

Roupp has thrown just one inning against the Marlins in his three-year career, a hitless ninth in a 7-5 home loss in September 2024.

The right-hander will have to deal with a lineup that’s been much more productive against righty pitchers this season, including the season-high-tying, 16-hit outburst in a game started by right-hander Adrian Houser on Friday. The Marlins weren’t nearly as effective Saturday as the Giants threw three left-handers, including starter Robbie Ray.

Miami began the weekend with the third-highest team batting average in baseball (.276) against right-handers.

Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said he loved watching the show Friday, one in which his team put up nine or more runs for the fourth time this season. All four surges have come in games started by opposing right-handers.

“From the very beginning I thought our approach was outstanding,” McCullough said after Friday’s win. “Our swing decisions were outstanding. It was just a real offensive clinic, one through nine, with the type of quality at-bats.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Giants #Landen #Roupp #roll #entering #series #finale #Marlins">Deadspin | Giants’ Landen Roupp on a roll entering series finale vs. Marlins

Apr 4, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Landen Roupp (65) delivers a pitch against the New York Mets during the fourth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

A pair of 27-year-old right-handers who are off to successful starts will face relatively unfamiliar opponents on Sunday afternoon when Max Meyer and the Miami Marlins close a three-game road series against Landen Roupp and the San Francisco Giants.

The teams have split the first two games of the set, with the Giants drawing even Saturday in a 6-2 win after the Marlins dominated the opener 9-4.

Meyer (1-0, 3.96 ERA) has allowed no more than three runs in any of his outings this season, with Miami winning three of his five starts. He limited the St. Louis Cardinals to two runs and three hits over 5 1/3 innings on Monday, striking out a season-best eight in his team’s 5-3 home win.

The fourth-year major-leaguer has never faced the Giants, who experienced an interesting situation on Saturday when designated hitter Casey Schmitt slipped rounding second base in the second inning of a scoreless game, eventually costing San Francisco a run. But Schmitt responded with a tie-breaking, two-run home run four innings later, giving the hosts a lead they never relinquished.

Giants manager Tony Vitello insisted to reporters afterward that he was not surprised how the sequence of events unfolded.

“He makes the coaches feel comfortable around him because he’s not afraid to laugh at himself, which we all have to do because we all make mistakes,” Vitello noted of Schmitt. “He wants to win. When an obstacle comes up, he gets a little more determined. I don’t think it’s a coincidence (the home run) happened.”

The Giants’ Roupp (4-1, 2.28 ERA) has been the club’s best starter in the early going, including a current three-game personal winning streak in which he held the Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers to a total of two runs and seven hits in 17 innings, striking out 17. He has won his last two starts despite getting just three runs of support in each.

Roupp has thrown just one inning against the Marlins in his three-year career, a hitless ninth in a 7-5 home loss in September 2024.

The right-hander will have to deal with a lineup that’s been much more productive against righty pitchers this season, including the season-high-tying, 16-hit outburst in a game started by right-hander Adrian Houser on Friday. The Marlins weren’t nearly as effective Saturday as the Giants threw three left-handers, including starter Robbie Ray.

Miami began the weekend with the third-highest team batting average in baseball (.276) against right-handers.

Marlins manager Clayton McCullough said he loved watching the show Friday, one in which his team put up nine or more runs for the fourth time this season. All four surges have come in games started by opposing right-handers.

“From the very beginning I thought our approach was outstanding,” McCullough said after Friday’s win. “Our swing decisions were outstanding. It was just a real offensive clinic, one through nine, with the type of quality at-bats.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Giants #Landen #Roupp #roll #entering #series #finale #Marlins

FIFA is in discussions with national associations to increase prize money for all 48 teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, football’s global governing body said on Sunday.

The proposal must be approved at Tuesday’s FIFA Council meeting, which is being held ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver.

In December, FIFA said prize money for the 2026 World Cup would be 50 per cent higher than for the previous edition at $655 million, after agreeing a record $727 million financial contribution to the tournament.

However, FIFA has told Reuters that the prize money on offer is set to increase, with the world governing body projected to surpass $11 billion in revenue in the current four-year cycle from 2023 to 2026.

“FIFA can confirm it is in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

“This includes a proposed increase in financial contributions to all qualified teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and in development funding available to all 211 member associations.

ALSO READ: Chelsea reaches FA Cup final as Fernandez header seals win over Leeds United

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community and FIFA is proud to be in its strongest-ever financial position to benefit the global game through its FIFA Forward programme.”

The biggest slice of FIFA’s initial funding package for the North American showpiece, $655 million, was to be performance-based payments to the 48 participating nations.

FIFA’s December announcement on prize money said the champion would take home $50 million and the runner-up $33 million, while the 16 nations that failed to advance from the initial group phase were set to earn $9 million.

Additionally, each qualified nation would be entitled to $1.5 million to cover preparation costs.

FIFA’s 2025 annual report said 93 per cent of its total budgeted revenue had already been contracted by the end of 2025, thanks to the success of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup held in the United States last year.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#World #Cup #prize #money #rise #FIFA #holds #talks #associations">

World Cup prize money could rise further as FIFA holds talks with associations FIFA is in discussions with national associations to increase prize money for all 48 teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, football’s global governing body said on Sunday.The proposal must be approved at Tuesday’s FIFA Council meeting, which is being held ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver.In December, FIFA said prize money for the 2026 World Cup would be 50 per cent higher than for the previous edition at 5 million, after agreeing a record 7 million financial contribution to the tournament.However, FIFA has told Reuters that the prize money on offer is set to increase, with the world governing body projected to surpass billion in revenue in the current four-year cycle from 2023 to 2026.“FIFA can confirm it is in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues,” a FIFA spokesperson said.“This includes a proposed increase in financial contributions to all qualified teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and in development funding available to all 211 member associations.ALSO READ: Chelsea reaches FA Cup final as Fernandez header seals win over Leeds United“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community and FIFA is proud to be in its strongest-ever financial position to benefit the global game through its FIFA Forward programme.”The biggest slice of FIFA’s initial funding package for the North American showpiece, 5 million, was to be performance-based payments to the 48 participating nations.FIFA’s December announcement on prize money said the champion would take home million and the runner-up million, while the 16 nations that failed to advance from the initial group phase were set to earn million.Additionally, each qualified nation would be entitled to .5 million to cover preparation costs.FIFA’s 2025 annual report said 93 per cent of its total budgeted revenue had already been contracted by the end of 2025, thanks to the success of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup held in the United States last year.Published on Apr 26, 2026 #World #Cup #prize #money #rise #FIFA #holds #talks #associations

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FIFA is in discussions with national associations to increase prize money for all 48 teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, football’s global governing body said on Sunday.
The proposal must be approved at Tuesday’s FIFA Council meeting, which is being held ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver.
In December, FIFA said prize money for the 2026 World Cup would be 50 per cent higher than for the previous edition at $655 million, after agreeing a record $727 million financial contribution to the tournament.
However, FIFA has told Reuters that the prize money on offer is set to increase, with the world governing body projected to surpass $11 billion in revenue in the current four-year cycle from 2023 to 2026.
“FIFA can confirm it is in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues,” a FIFA spokesperson said.
“This includes a proposed increase in financial contributions to all qualified teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and in development funding available to all 211 member associations.
ALSO READ: Chelsea reaches FA Cup final as Fernandez header seals win over Leeds United
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be groundbreaking in terms of its financial contribution to the global football community and FIFA is proud to be in its strongest-ever financial position to benefit the global game through its FIFA Forward programme.”
The biggest slice of FIFA’s initial funding package for the North American showpiece, $655 million, was to be performance-based payments to the 48 participating nations.
FIFA’s December announcement on prize money said the champion would take home $50 million and the runner-up $33 million, while the 16 nations that failed to advance from the initial group phase were set to earn $9 million.
Additionally, each qualified nation would be entitled to $1.5 million to cover preparation costs.
FIFA’s 2025 annual report said 93 per cent of its total budgeted revenue had already been contracted by the end of 2025, thanks to the success of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup held in the United States last year.
Published on Apr 26, 2026

#World #Cup #prize #money #rise #FIFA #holds #talks #associations">World Cup prize money could rise further as FIFA holds talks with associations

FIFA is in discussions with national associations to increase prize money for all 48 teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, football’s global governing body said on Sunday.

The proposal must be approved at Tuesday’s FIFA Council meeting, which is being held ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver.

“FIFA can confirm it is in discussions with associations around the world to increase available revenues,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

“This includes a proposed increase in financial contributions to all qualified teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and in development funding available to all 211 member associations.

ALSO READ: Chelsea reaches FA Cup final as Fernandez header seals win over Leeds United

The biggest slice of FIFA’s initial funding package for the North American showpiece, $655 million, was to be performance-based payments to the 48 participating nations.

Additionally, each qualified nation would be entitled to $1.5 million to cover preparation costs.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#World #Cup #prize #money #rise #FIFA #holds #talks #associations

Deadspin | Vancouver wins first pick in PWHL draft Wisconsin defender Caroline Harvey handles the puck against Bemidji State during a WCHA first-round playoff game Feb. 27, 2026 at LaBahn Arena in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won, 7-0. The Vancouver Goldeneyes have secured the first pick in the 2026 Professional Women’s Hockey League Draft, with Olympic gold medal-winning defenseman Caroline Harvey expected to be their selection. The PWHL awards its No. 1 draft choice in a manner that differs from other pro leagues, using what has been dubbed the Gold Plan. Instead of the pick being handed to the team with the worst record, or distributed through a lottery system, the PWHL team that earns the most points after being eliminated from postseason consideration secures the spot. With their 4-3 overtime defeat of the Minnesota Frost on Saturday night coupled with the Seattle Torrent’s 2-1 shootout loss to the Montreal Victoire, the first-year Goldeneyes secured the first pick. Saturday was the last day of regular-season play. The full draft order is still to be determined — as is the date of the draft, which is expected to be held in June. Harvey, 23, turns pro after leading Wisconsin to three NCAA championships — plus one runner-up finish — in her four seasons with the Badgers. In 150 games, she produced 201 points (54 goals, 147 assists), 15 power-play markers and 12 game-winning goals. The NCAA title capped a busy hockey season for Harvey. She won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in the Milan-Cortina Games, adding it to the silver medal she won in Beijing in 2022 as a 19-year-old. She was MVP of the Olympic Tournament with nine points in five games, an Olympics mark for an American defender. Harvey also was named Best Defenseman at the 2003 and 2005 World Championships, both of which the United States won. She is from Salem, N.H. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Vancouver #wins #pick #PWHL #draft

#Deadspin #Vancouver #wins #pick #PWHL #draft">

mwasimuddin125 0

Wisconsin defender Caroline Harvey handles the puck against Bemidji State during a WCHA first-round playoff game Feb. 27, 2026 at LaBahn Arena in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won, 7-0.

The Vancouver Goldeneyes have secured the first pick in the 2026 Professional Women’s Hockey League Draft, with Olympic gold medal-winning defenseman Caroline Harvey expected to be their selection.

The PWHL awards its No. 1 draft choice in a manner that differs from other pro leagues, using what has been dubbed the Gold Plan. Instead of the pick being handed to the team with the worst record, or distributed through a lottery system, the PWHL team that earns the most points after being eliminated from postseason consideration secures the spot.

With their 4-3 overtime defeat of the Minnesota Frost on Saturday night coupled with the Seattle Torrent’s 2-1 shootout loss to the Montreal Victoire, the first-year Goldeneyes secured the first pick. Saturday was the last day of regular-season play.

The full draft order is still to be determined — as is the date of the draft, which is expected to be held in June.

Harvey, 23, turns pro after leading Wisconsin to three NCAA championships — plus one runner-up finish — in her four seasons with the Badgers. In 150 games, she produced 201 points (54 goals, 147 assists), 15 power-play markers and 12 game-winning goals.

The NCAA title capped a busy hockey season for Harvey. She won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in the Milan-Cortina Games, adding it to the silver medal she won in Beijing in 2022 as a 19-year-old. She was MVP of the Olympic Tournament with nine points in five games, an Olympics mark for an American defender.

Harvey also was named Best Defenseman at the 2003 and 2005 World Championships, both of which the United States won.

She is from Salem, N.H.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Vancouver #wins #pick #PWHL #draft">Deadspin | Vancouver wins first pick in PWHL draft

Wisconsin defender Caroline Harvey handles the puck against Bemidji State during a WCHA first-round playoff game Feb. 27, 2026 at LaBahn Arena in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won, 7-0.

The Vancouver Goldeneyes have secured the first pick in the 2026 Professional Women’s Hockey League Draft, with Olympic gold medal-winning defenseman Caroline Harvey expected to be their selection.

The PWHL awards its No. 1 draft choice in a manner that differs from other pro leagues, using what has been dubbed the Gold Plan. Instead of the pick being handed to the team with the worst record, or distributed through a lottery system, the PWHL team that earns the most points after being eliminated from postseason consideration secures the spot.

With their 4-3 overtime defeat of the Minnesota Frost on Saturday night coupled with the Seattle Torrent’s 2-1 shootout loss to the Montreal Victoire, the first-year Goldeneyes secured the first pick. Saturday was the last day of regular-season play.

The full draft order is still to be determined — as is the date of the draft, which is expected to be held in June.

Harvey, 23, turns pro after leading Wisconsin to three NCAA championships — plus one runner-up finish — in her four seasons with the Badgers. In 150 games, she produced 201 points (54 goals, 147 assists), 15 power-play markers and 12 game-winning goals.

The NCAA title capped a busy hockey season for Harvey. She won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in the Milan-Cortina Games, adding it to the silver medal she won in Beijing in 2022 as a 19-year-old. She was MVP of the Olympic Tournament with nine points in five games, an Olympics mark for an American defender.

Harvey also was named Best Defenseman at the 2003 and 2005 World Championships, both of which the United States won.

She is from Salem, N.H.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Vancouver #wins #pick #PWHL #draft

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