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CSK vs KKR, IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders clash looking to jump up from last place The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached the 21-match mark, with each team having played four games. The tournament’s traditional heavyweights find themselves in uncharted territory.The points table tells a bizarre story of shifting power: the teams currently in the top half share only three titles between them, while the bottom half contains a staggering 14 trophies’ worth of experience.On Tuesday, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium hosts a make-or-break fixture between two of these struggling giants. The home side, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), sits at a precarious ninth place, while the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) languish at the bottom with a solitary point from four outings.PowerPlay woesCSK finally halted a gruelling six-match home losing streak with a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals last time out. The victory was fuelled by Sanju Samson’s maiden century in yellow—a long-awaited return on investment for the high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals—and a sharp bowling performance led by Jamie Overton.However, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form is a glaring liability. With just 56 runs at an average of 14.00 and a strike rate of 103, his ultra-cautious PowerPlay approach has stifled the team’s momentum.ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings fixtures swapped owing to municipal electionsPromoting the fearless Ayush Mhatre to open while shifting Gaikwad to the number three spot could provide the spark currently lacking in the first six overs.Furthermore, while Dewald Brevis only contributed a couple of catches in his return, his presence in the middle order offers a higher ceiling for a unit desperate for high-impact players in the absence of MS Dhoni.On the bowling front, the inclusion of West Indian Akeal Hosein has paid dividends. He replaced a struggling Matt Henry and has provided a quick fix for CSK’s PowerPlay bowling. With support from Overton and Anshul Kamboj, the bowling unit seems to have finally taken shape.Searching for solutionsKKR’s problems are equally systemic. While Finn Allen provides a fear factor with a strike rate north of 200, his frequent early exits have forced Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi to rebuild rather than accelerate.The middle-order finishers have also gone cold: Rinku Singh has managed just 72 runs this season, while Rovman Powell has contributed only 39. The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY The imbalance is deepened by Cameron Green’s lack of rhythm with the bat. Additionally, the game against Lucknow Super Giants was the first time he bowled this season, and he conceded 28 runs in two overs. KKR ended up on the losing side as Mukul Choudhary pulled off a heist in a last-ball thriller.While Vaibhav Arora and Blessing Muzarabani have shown sparks, the bowling unit has appeared sub-par without consistent spin support. The spinners have returned with just five wickets in 24.1 overs and have conceded at 9.26 runs per over thus far this season.Adding to the visitor’s woes, Varun Chakaravarthy remains a doubt following a finger injury during the Sunrisers Hyderabad game, though he has returned to training.Come Tuesday, the fixture represents more than just two points for the teams. It provides them with a crucial opportunity to stabilise their campaigns and stay relevant in the playoff conversation.Published on Apr 13, 2026 #CSK #KKR #IPL #Chennai #Super #Kings #Kolkata #Knight #Riders #clash #jump #place

CSK vs KKR, IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders clash looking to jump up from last place

The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached the 21-match mark, with each team having played four games. The tournament’s traditional heavyweights find themselves in uncharted territory.

The points table tells a bizarre story of shifting power: the teams currently in the top half share only three titles between them, while the bottom half contains a staggering 14 trophies’ worth of experience.

On Tuesday, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium hosts a make-or-break fixture between two of these struggling giants. The home side, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), sits at a precarious ninth place, while the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) languish at the bottom with a solitary point from four outings.

PowerPlay woes

CSK finally halted a gruelling six-match home losing streak with a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals last time out. The victory was fuelled by Sanju Samson’s maiden century in yellow—a long-awaited return on investment for the high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals—and a sharp bowling performance led by Jamie Overton.

However, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form is a glaring liability. With just 56 runs at an average of 14.00 and a strike rate of 103, his ultra-cautious PowerPlay approach has stifled the team’s momentum.

ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings fixtures swapped owing to municipal elections

Promoting the fearless Ayush Mhatre to open while shifting Gaikwad to the number three spot could provide the spark currently lacking in the first six overs.

Furthermore, while Dewald Brevis only contributed a couple of catches in his return, his presence in the middle order offers a higher ceiling for a unit desperate for high-impact players in the absence of MS Dhoni.

On the bowling front, the inclusion of West Indian Akeal Hosein has paid dividends. He replaced a struggling Matt Henry and has provided a quick fix for CSK’s PowerPlay bowling. With support from Overton and Anshul Kamboj, the bowling unit seems to have finally taken shape.

Searching for solutions

KKR’s problems are equally systemic. While Finn Allen provides a fear factor with a strike rate north of 200, his frequent early exits have forced Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi to rebuild rather than accelerate.

The middle-order finishers have also gone cold: Rinku Singh has managed just 72 runs this season, while Rovman Powell has contributed only 39.

CSK vs KKR, IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders clash looking to jump up from last place The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached the 21-match mark, with each team having played four games. The tournament’s traditional heavyweights find themselves in uncharted territory.The points table tells a bizarre story of shifting power: the teams currently in the top half share only three titles between them, while the bottom half contains a staggering 14 trophies’ worth of experience.On Tuesday, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium hosts a make-or-break fixture between two of these struggling giants. The home side, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), sits at a precarious ninth place, while the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) languish at the bottom with a solitary point from four outings.PowerPlay woesCSK finally halted a gruelling six-match home losing streak with a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals last time out. The victory was fuelled by Sanju Samson’s maiden century in yellow—a long-awaited return on investment for the high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals—and a sharp bowling performance led by Jamie Overton.However, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form is a glaring liability. With just 56 runs at an average of 14.00 and a strike rate of 103, his ultra-cautious PowerPlay approach has stifled the team’s momentum.ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings fixtures swapped owing to municipal electionsPromoting the fearless Ayush Mhatre to open while shifting Gaikwad to the number three spot could provide the spark currently lacking in the first six overs.Furthermore, while Dewald Brevis only contributed a couple of catches in his return, his presence in the middle order offers a higher ceiling for a unit desperate for high-impact players in the absence of MS Dhoni.On the bowling front, the inclusion of West Indian Akeal Hosein has paid dividends. He replaced a struggling Matt Henry and has provided a quick fix for CSK’s PowerPlay bowling. With support from Overton and Anshul Kamboj, the bowling unit seems to have finally taken shape.Searching for solutionsKKR’s problems are equally systemic. While Finn Allen provides a fear factor with a strike rate north of 200, his frequent early exits have forced Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi to rebuild rather than accelerate.The middle-order finishers have also gone cold: Rinku Singh has managed just 72 runs this season, while Rovman Powell has contributed only 39. The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY The imbalance is deepened by Cameron Green’s lack of rhythm with the bat. Additionally, the game against Lucknow Super Giants was the first time he bowled this season, and he conceded 28 runs in two overs. KKR ended up on the losing side as Mukul Choudhary pulled off a heist in a last-ball thriller.While Vaibhav Arora and Blessing Muzarabani have shown sparks, the bowling unit has appeared sub-par without consistent spin support. The spinners have returned with just five wickets in 24.1 overs and have conceded at 9.26 runs per over thus far this season.Adding to the visitor’s woes, Varun Chakaravarthy remains a doubt following a finger injury during the Sunrisers Hyderabad game, though he has returned to training.Come Tuesday, the fixture represents more than just two points for the teams. It provides them with a crucial opportunity to stabilise their campaigns and stay relevant in the playoff conversation.Published on Apr 13, 2026 #CSK #KKR #IPL #Chennai #Super #Kings #Kolkata #Knight #Riders #clash #jump #place

The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY

lightbox-info

The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26. | Photo Credit: RV MOORTHY

The imbalance is deepened by Cameron Green’s lack of rhythm with the bat. Additionally, the game against Lucknow Super Giants was the first time he bowled this season, and he conceded 28 runs in two overs. KKR ended up on the losing side as Mukul Choudhary pulled off a heist in a last-ball thriller.

While Vaibhav Arora and Blessing Muzarabani have shown sparks, the bowling unit has appeared sub-par without consistent spin support. The spinners have returned with just five wickets in 24.1 overs and have conceded at 9.26 runs per over thus far this season.

Adding to the visitor’s woes, Varun Chakaravarthy remains a doubt following a finger injury during the Sunrisers Hyderabad game, though he has returned to training.

Come Tuesday, the fixture represents more than just two points for the teams. It provides them with a crucial opportunity to stabilise their campaigns and stay relevant in the playoff conversation.

Published on Apr 13, 2026

#CSK #KKR #IPL #Chennai #Super #Kings #Kolkata #Knight #Riders #clash #jump #place

Sports news , , , , , ,

The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached the 21-match mark, with each team having played four games. The tournament’s traditional heavyweights find themselves in uncharted territory.

The points table tells a bizarre story of shifting power: the teams currently in the top half share only three titles between them, while the bottom half contains a staggering 14 trophies’ worth of experience.

On Tuesday, the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium hosts a make-or-break fixture between two of these struggling giants. The home side, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), sits at a precarious ninth place, while the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) languish at the bottom with a solitary point from four outings.

PowerPlay woes

CSK finally halted a gruelling six-match home losing streak with a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals last time out. The victory was fuelled by Sanju Samson’s maiden century in yellow—a long-awaited return on investment for the high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals—and a sharp bowling performance led by Jamie Overton.

However, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form is a glaring liability. With just 56 runs at an average of 14.00 and a strike rate of 103, his ultra-cautious PowerPlay approach has stifled the team’s momentum.

ALSO READ | Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings fixtures swapped owing to municipal elections

Promoting the fearless Ayush Mhatre to open while shifting Gaikwad to the number three spot could provide the spark currently lacking in the first six overs.

Furthermore, while Dewald Brevis only contributed a couple of catches in his return, his presence in the middle order offers a higher ceiling for a unit desperate for high-impact players in the absence of MS Dhoni.

On the bowling front, the inclusion of West Indian Akeal Hosein has paid dividends. He replaced a struggling Matt Henry and has provided a quick fix for CSK’s PowerPlay bowling. With support from Overton and Anshul Kamboj, the bowling unit seems to have finally taken shape.

Searching for solutions

KKR’s problems are equally systemic. While Finn Allen provides a fear factor with a strike rate north of 200, his frequent early exits have forced Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi to rebuild rather than accelerate.

The middle-order finishers have also gone cold: Rinku Singh has managed just 72 runs this season, while Rovman Powell has contributed only 39.

The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26.
| Photo Credit:
RV MOORTHY

lightbox-info

The KKR spin-bowling attack has picked only five wickets in 24.1 overs bowled, at an economy rate of 9.26.
| Photo Credit:
RV MOORTHY

The imbalance is deepened by Cameron Green’s lack of rhythm with the bat. Additionally, the game against Lucknow Super Giants was the first time he bowled this season, and he conceded 28 runs in two overs. KKR ended up on the losing side as Mukul Choudhary pulled off a heist in a last-ball thriller.

While Vaibhav Arora and Blessing Muzarabani have shown sparks, the bowling unit has appeared sub-par without consistent spin support. The spinners have returned with just five wickets in 24.1 overs and have conceded at 9.26 runs per over thus far this season.

Adding to the visitor’s woes, Varun Chakaravarthy remains a doubt following a finger injury during the Sunrisers Hyderabad game, though he has returned to training.

Come Tuesday, the fixture represents more than just two points for the teams. It provides them with a crucial opportunity to stabilise their campaigns and stay relevant in the playoff conversation.

Published on Apr 13, 2026

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Deadspin | Jacob deGrom brushes off Shohei Ohtani shot, lifts Rangers past Dodgers <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-900/28715593.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28715593.jpg" alt="MLB: Texas Rangers at Los Angeles Dodgers" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 12, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Jacob Degrom (48) throws a pitch during the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Jacob deGrom overcame allowing a leadoff homer to Shohei Ohtani by striking out nine batters, helping the visiting Texas Rangers record a 5-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>deGrom (1-0) yielded one run on four hits in six innings before exiting after 93 pitches.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Evan Carter homered to lead off the third and Josh Smith had an RBI single later in the inning for the Rangers, who notched their fourth win in six games.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Brandon Nimmo drove in his second run of the day with an RBI single in the eighth, and Ezequiel Duran scored on a wild pitch later that inning.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Josh Jung had two hits and reached base four times as Texas took advantage of 10 walks to salvage the finale of the three-game series.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>For the second straight day, Ohtani homered to lead off Los Angeles’ half of the first inning. The homer was his fifth of the season and extended his on-base streak to 46 games.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-7"> <p>Kyle Tucker had an RBI single in the seventh inning to cut Texas’ lead to 3-2, but Cole Winn stranded runners on the corners by inducing Andy Pages to pop out to shallow left field.</p> </section> <section id="section-8"> <p>Winn threw a scoreless eighth inning and Jakob Junis did the same in the ninth to secure his third save of the season and hand the Dodgers just their second loss in their last nine games.</p> </section><section id="section-9"> <p>Carter forged a 1-1 tie by sending a first-pitch fastball from Roki Sasaki (0-2) over the wall in right-center field for his second homer of the series.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Former Dodger Joc Pederson extended the third inning with a two-out single. He promptly advanced to second on a wild pitch and scored on Smith’s single to right field to stake the Rangers to a 2-1 lead.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Texas tacked on a run in the sixth inning. Jung worked a walk to lead off the inning, advanced to third on a throwing error by reliever Edgardo Henriquez and scored on Nimmo’s groundout.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Sasaki permitted two runs on five hits in four innings. He fanned six but drove up his pitch count with five walks and exited after 94 pitches.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Jacob #deGrom #brushes #Shohei #Ohtani #shot #lifts #Rangers #Dodgers

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Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa did the double over five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen after beating the Norwegian in Round 8 of the ongoing Norway Chess 2026 tournament.

The Indian had gotten the better of Carlsen earlier in the competition as well, in the fourth round.

With two rounds left in the competition, Praggnanandhaa now sits third with 12 points, two off leader Wesley So of USA. Frenchman Alireza Firouzja is second with 13 points.

The other Indian in the fray in the Open section, D. Gukesh, suffered a loss against Firouzja. Gukesh is placed last with eight points, with Carlsen ahead by just a point.

More to follow…

Published on Jun 03, 2026

#Norway #Chess #Praggnanandhaa #beats #Carlsen #stay #hunt #title">Norway Chess 2026: Praggnanandhaa beats Carlsen to stay in hunt for title Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa did the double over five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen after beating the Norwegian in Round 8 of the ongoing Norway Chess 2026 tournament.The Indian had gotten the better of Carlsen earlier in the competition as well, in the fourth round.With two rounds left in the competition, Praggnanandhaa now sits third with 12 points, two off leader Wesley So of USA. Frenchman Alireza Firouzja is second with 13 points.The other Indian in the fray in the Open section, D. Gukesh, suffered a loss against Firouzja. Gukesh is placed last with eight points, with Carlsen ahead by just a point.More to follow…Published on Jun 03, 2026 #Norway #Chess #Praggnanandhaa #beats #Carlsen #stay #hunt #title

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How the Patriots could win this trade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How the Patriots could win this trade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How the Patriots could win this trade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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