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Deadspin | NHL roundup: Lightning rally, beat Canadiens in OT to even series Apr 21, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman J.J. Moser (90) and defenseman Darren Raddysh (43) react after beating the Montreal Canadiens in overtime during game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images J.J. Moser scored 12:48 into overtime, giving the host Tampa Bay Lightning a 3-2 comeback victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday and evening their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series at one win each. Tampa Bay fully controlled the game in the extra period and was rewarded when Moser found the net. He gained the puck off a faceoff win in the offensive zone, worked his way to a shooting position at the top of the right circle and wired a top-corner shot for his first career playoff tally. Montreal, which won Game 1 in overtime, was outshot 9-0 in overtime of Game 2. The series shifts to Montreal for Game 3 on Friday. Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel collected a goal and an assist. Nikita Kucherov tallied once, Anthony Cirelli collected two assists and goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves for Tampa Bay, which snapped a collection of playoff swoons. Avalanche 2, Kings 1 (OT) Nicolas Roy scored at 7:44 of overtime to lift Colorado to a win against Los Angeles in Denver, giving the Avalanche a 2-0 lead in a Western Conference first-round playoff series. Gabriel Landeskog scored the tying goal late in regulation and Scott Wedgewood made 24 saves for the Avalanche. During the regular season, Wedgewood led the NHL in goals-against average (2.02) and save percentage (.921). Anton Forsberg made 34 saves for the Kings in his second career postseason start, both in the current series. He has allowed two goals or fewer in eight of his past nine starts. Bruins 4, Sabres 2 Visiting Boston scored three second-period goals and held off a late Buffalo rally to even the teams’ Eastern Conference quarterfinal playoff series at one victory apiece. Viktor Arvidsson scored in the last two periods, giving the Bruins 1-0 and 4-0 leads. Morgan Geekie and Pavel Zacha also lit the lamp for Boston, which heads home for Game 3 of the best-of-seven series on Thursday. Jeremy Swayman made 34 saves. Bowen Byram and Peyton Krebs scored as Buffalo climbed within 4-2 in the closing minutes. Sabres goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen allowed four goals on 19 shots before Alex Lyon entered in relief following Arvidsson’s second marker, which came just 16 seconds into the third period. Mammoth 3, Golden Knights 2 Logan Cooley scored the go-ahead goal on a rebound with six minutes remaining to give Utah its first playoff win in franchise history over Vegas in Game 2 of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series in Las Vegas. Cooley buried a rebound of a Dylan Guenther shot, evening the best-of-seven series at one victory apiece. Guenther had a goal and an assist, Kailer Yamamoto had two assists and MacKenzie Weegar also scored. Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves, including a close-in shot by Mark Stone from the left side of the net with five seconds left to seal the win. Stone and Ivan Barbashev each scored a goal and Jack Eichel had two assists for Vegas, which lost for the first time in regulation in 10 games (8-1-1) under coach John Tortorella. Carter Hart finished with 27 saves. Game 3 is Friday in Salt Lake City. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NHL #roundup #Lightning #rally #beat #Canadiens #series

Deadspin | NHL roundup: Lightning rally, beat Canadiens in OT to even series
Deadspin | NHL roundup: Lightning rally, beat Canadiens in OT to even series Apr 21, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman J.J. Moser (90) and defenseman Darren Raddysh (43) react after beating the Montreal Canadiens in overtime during game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images J.J. Moser scored 12:48 into overtime, giving the host Tampa Bay Lightning a 3-2 comeback victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday and evening their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series at one win each. Tampa Bay fully controlled the game in the extra period and was rewarded when Moser found the net. He gained the puck off a faceoff win in the offensive zone, worked his way to a shooting position at the top of the right circle and wired a top-corner shot for his first career playoff tally. Montreal, which won Game 1 in overtime, was outshot 9-0 in overtime of Game 2. The series shifts to Montreal for Game 3 on Friday. Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel collected a goal and an assist. Nikita Kucherov tallied once, Anthony Cirelli collected two assists and goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves for Tampa Bay, which snapped a collection of playoff swoons. Avalanche 2, Kings 1 (OT) Nicolas Roy scored at 7:44 of overtime to lift Colorado to a win against Los Angeles in Denver, giving the Avalanche a 2-0 lead in a Western Conference first-round playoff series. Gabriel Landeskog scored the tying goal late in regulation and Scott Wedgewood made 24 saves for the Avalanche. During the regular season, Wedgewood led the NHL in goals-against average (2.02) and save percentage (.921). Anton Forsberg made 34 saves for the Kings in his second career postseason start, both in the current series. He has allowed two goals or fewer in eight of his past nine starts. Bruins 4, Sabres 2 Visiting Boston scored three second-period goals and held off a late Buffalo rally to even the teams’ Eastern Conference quarterfinal playoff series at one victory apiece. Viktor Arvidsson scored in the last two periods, giving the Bruins 1-0 and 4-0 leads. Morgan Geekie and Pavel Zacha also lit the lamp for Boston, which heads home for Game 3 of the best-of-seven series on Thursday. Jeremy Swayman made 34 saves. Bowen Byram and Peyton Krebs scored as Buffalo climbed within 4-2 in the closing minutes. Sabres goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen allowed four goals on 19 shots before Alex Lyon entered in relief following Arvidsson’s second marker, which came just 16 seconds into the third period. Mammoth 3, Golden Knights 2 Logan Cooley scored the go-ahead goal on a rebound with six minutes remaining to give Utah its first playoff win in franchise history over Vegas in Game 2 of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series in Las Vegas. Cooley buried a rebound of a Dylan Guenther shot, evening the best-of-seven series at one victory apiece. Guenther had a goal and an assist, Kailer Yamamoto had two assists and MacKenzie Weegar also scored. Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves, including a close-in shot by Mark Stone from the left side of the net with five seconds left to seal the win. Stone and Ivan Barbashev each scored a goal and Jack Eichel had two assists for Vegas, which lost for the first time in regulation in 10 games (8-1-1) under coach John Tortorella. Carter Hart finished with 27 saves. Game 3 is Friday in Salt Lake City. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NHL #roundup #Lightning #rally #beat #Canadiens #seriesApr 21, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman J.J. Moser (90) and defenseman Darren Raddysh (43) react after beating the Montreal Canadiens in overtime during game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

J.J. Moser scored 12:48 into overtime, giving the host Tampa Bay Lightning a 3-2 comeback victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday and evening their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series at one win each.

Tampa Bay fully controlled the game in the extra period and was rewarded when Moser found the net. He gained the puck off a faceoff win in the offensive zone, worked his way to a shooting position at the top of the right circle and wired a top-corner shot for his first career playoff tally.

Montreal, which won Game 1 in overtime, was outshot 9-0 in overtime of Game 2. The series shifts to Montreal for Game 3 on Friday.

Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel collected a goal and an assist. Nikita Kucherov tallied once, Anthony Cirelli collected two assists and goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves for Tampa Bay, which snapped a collection of playoff swoons.

Avalanche 2, Kings 1 (OT)

Nicolas Roy scored at 7:44 of overtime to lift Colorado to a win against Los Angeles in Denver, giving the Avalanche a 2-0 lead in a Western Conference first-round playoff series.

Gabriel Landeskog scored the tying goal late in regulation and Scott Wedgewood made 24 saves for the Avalanche. During the regular season, Wedgewood led the NHL in goals-against average (2.02) and save percentage (.921).

Anton Forsberg made 34 saves for the Kings in his second career postseason start, both in the current series. He has allowed two goals or fewer in eight of his past nine starts.


Bruins 4, Sabres 2

Visiting Boston scored three second-period goals and held off a late Buffalo rally to even the teams’ Eastern Conference quarterfinal playoff series at one victory apiece.

Viktor Arvidsson scored in the last two periods, giving the Bruins 1-0 and 4-0 leads. Morgan Geekie and Pavel Zacha also lit the lamp for Boston, which heads home for Game 3 of the best-of-seven series on Thursday. Jeremy Swayman made 34 saves.

Bowen Byram and Peyton Krebs scored as Buffalo climbed within 4-2 in the closing minutes. Sabres goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen allowed four goals on 19 shots before Alex Lyon entered in relief following Arvidsson’s second marker, which came just 16 seconds into the third period.

Mammoth 3, Golden Knights 2

Logan Cooley scored the go-ahead goal on a rebound with six minutes remaining to give Utah its first playoff win in franchise history over Vegas in Game 2 of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series in Las Vegas.

Cooley buried a rebound of a Dylan Guenther shot, evening the best-of-seven series at one victory apiece. Guenther had a goal and an assist, Kailer Yamamoto had two assists and MacKenzie Weegar also scored. Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves, including a close-in shot by Mark Stone from the left side of the net with five seconds left to seal the win.

Stone and Ivan Barbashev each scored a goal and Jack Eichel had two assists for Vegas, which lost for the first time in regulation in 10 games (8-1-1) under coach John Tortorella. Carter Hart finished with 27 saves. Game 3 is Friday in Salt Lake City.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #NHL #roundup #Lightning #rally #beat #Canadiens #series

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Apr 21, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman J.J. Moser (90) and defenseman Darren Raddysh (43) react after beating the Montreal Canadiens in overtime during game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

J.J. Moser scored 12:48 into overtime, giving the host Tampa Bay Lightning a 3-2 comeback victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday and evening their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series at one win each.

Tampa Bay fully controlled the game in the extra period and was rewarded when Moser found the net. He gained the puck off a faceoff win in the offensive zone, worked his way to a shooting position at the top of the right circle and wired a top-corner shot for his first career playoff tally.

Montreal, which won Game 1 in overtime, was outshot 9-0 in overtime of Game 2. The series shifts to Montreal for Game 3 on Friday.

Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel collected a goal and an assist. Nikita Kucherov tallied once, Anthony Cirelli collected two assists and goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves for Tampa Bay, which snapped a collection of playoff swoons.

Avalanche 2, Kings 1 (OT)

Nicolas Roy scored at 7:44 of overtime to lift Colorado to a win against Los Angeles in Denver, giving the Avalanche a 2-0 lead in a Western Conference first-round playoff series.

Gabriel Landeskog scored the tying goal late in regulation and Scott Wedgewood made 24 saves for the Avalanche. During the regular season, Wedgewood led the NHL in goals-against average (2.02) and save percentage (.921).

Anton Forsberg made 34 saves for the Kings in his second career postseason start, both in the current series. He has allowed two goals or fewer in eight of his past nine starts.

Bruins 4, Sabres 2

Visiting Boston scored three second-period goals and held off a late Buffalo rally to even the teams’ Eastern Conference quarterfinal playoff series at one victory apiece.

Viktor Arvidsson scored in the last two periods, giving the Bruins 1-0 and 4-0 leads. Morgan Geekie and Pavel Zacha also lit the lamp for Boston, which heads home for Game 3 of the best-of-seven series on Thursday. Jeremy Swayman made 34 saves.

Bowen Byram and Peyton Krebs scored as Buffalo climbed within 4-2 in the closing minutes. Sabres goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen allowed four goals on 19 shots before Alex Lyon entered in relief following Arvidsson’s second marker, which came just 16 seconds into the third period.

Mammoth 3, Golden Knights 2

Logan Cooley scored the go-ahead goal on a rebound with six minutes remaining to give Utah its first playoff win in franchise history over Vegas in Game 2 of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series in Las Vegas.

Cooley buried a rebound of a Dylan Guenther shot, evening the best-of-seven series at one victory apiece. Guenther had a goal and an assist, Kailer Yamamoto had two assists and MacKenzie Weegar also scored. Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves, including a close-in shot by Mark Stone from the left side of the net with five seconds left to seal the win.

Stone and Ivan Barbashev each scored a goal and Jack Eichel had two assists for Vegas, which lost for the first time in regulation in 10 games (8-1-1) under coach John Tortorella. Carter Hart finished with 27 saves. Game 3 is Friday in Salt Lake City.

–Field Level Media

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NFL Draft’s 7 biggest sleepers in 2026 who could turn into steals <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 just over 24 hours until the 2026 NFL Draft, where we <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111616/fernando-mendoza-interview-nfl-draft-faith-family-recruiting-journey">expect Fernando Mendoza</a> to be the first player selected.</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 he will not be the only player selected.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">There are 257 draft slots in this year’s NFL Draft, starting with the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 and finishing with the Denver Broncos at No. 257. Whether it is the Broncos or another team making that pick remains to be seen, but the simple fact is this: there are lots of players who are going to be drafted over the next few days.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Let’s dive into seven of them, including one who might not be a “sleeper” in the minds of the sleeper police, but might be my favorite player to watch in this class outside of Caleb Downs.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech</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">Several defenders from Texas Tech are expected to come off the board early in the 2026 NFL Draft. Pass rusher David Bailey might be drafted second by the New York Jets, linebacker Jacob Rodriguez could sneak into the first round, and defensive tackle Lee Hunter and pass rusher Romello Height are expected to be Day 2 picks.</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">Safety Cole Wisniewski, however, might slide late into Day 3. But there is a lot to like about his game. Wisniewski racked up 78 total tackles for the Red Raiders last season, along with six pass breakups and a sack.</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">He did this after missing the entire 2024 season due to a foot injury.</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">While Wisniewski is more of a deep safety, you could draw a comparison to Caleb Downs in terms of his versatility. Wisniewski is on the bigger size, weighing in at 220 pounds, which allowed Texas Tech to drop him down into the box in certain situations, even when he might be playing in a traditional single-high role during the same possession.</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">Take this play against UCF, where he slides down into the box, feels the run play perfectly, and makes a tackle for a short gain:</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">Texas Tech has several defenders that should be drafted this 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"><strong>Expected Draft Round: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/cole-wisniewski">Rounds 6-7</a></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Lewis Bond, WR, Boston College</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">Lewis Bond did almost everything a wide receiver can do to earn an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine. He caught 88 passes for 993 yards and a touchdown in 2024, with those 88 receptions setting a new team record. He leaves Chestnut Hill having set a new career reception mark with 213, and also checks in at fifth in the school’s record book with 2,385 career receiving yards. He was also a second-team All-ACC selection, and garnered praise for his performance at the Senior Bowl.</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">Yet when it came time for Combine invitations, he was left on the outside looking in.</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">Watching Bond on film, you see a player with great feel for the position, great awarness for his nearest threat in the secondary, and the ability to play both outside and in the slot. If you needed just one play to sum up what he can bring to an NFL offense it is this reception against Syracuse, where he beats the man coverage defender, makes a tough adjustment to an off-target throw, and finishes the play with an explosive gain in the passing game:</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"><strong>Expected Draft Round: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/lewis-bond">Rounds 6-7</a></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Tanner Koziol, TE, Houston</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">While measurements vary, tight end Tanner Koziol checks in with a wingspan around 83 inches based on his measurements at the Combine.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">And the tight end puts every bit of that wingspan to use on plays like this one:</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">Koziol’s ability to play above-the-rim stands out, and his ability to win in contested catch situations will serve him well at the next level. There is some “big wide receiver” to his game, along with good feel for finding soft spots in zone coverage. Add in some ability as a blocker — and a whole lot of willingness — and you have a nice find on the third day of the draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Expected Draft Round: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/tanner-koziol">Rounds 5-6</a></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Bentley was mired on the depth chart at Utah for the two previous seasons, catching just three passes over two years with the Utes. But he got a chance to see more playing time this past season and caught 48 passes for 620 yards and six touchdowns for Utah this past season.</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">Those numbers saw him finish second on the team in both receptions and receiving yards, and he tied for the team lead in touchdown catches. The 6’4, 253-pound tight end also posted a 4.62-second 40-yard dash at the Combine.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But what might help him the most is what he can do as an in-line blocker. Bentley is every bit the complete tight end, with an ability to execute blocks on both gap and zone designs from an in-line or a wing alignment. For many tight ends coming out of college, picking up the blocking part of the job is the toughest part of the transition, but Bentley looks ready to step in right away in that area.</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"><strong>Expected Draft Round: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/dallen-bentley">Rounds 5-6</a></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor generated the most buzz on the defensive side of the ball as Miami stormed to an appearance in the title game, but if you watched the Hurricanes defense this year you probably saw something in addition to those pass rushers.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That would be slot corner Keionte Scott, who was a force in his own right for the Miami defense. Scott racked up 67 tackles, including 13 for a loss, last season while adding five sacks and a pair of interceptions.</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">Watch him on this play against Texas A&M dip under the blocker, and chop down the receiver for a loss on a quick screen:</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">Those four sacks punctuate his effectiveness as a blitzer, and the best example of that trait might be his 11-yard sack against Louisville, when he knifes into the backfield with a well-timed blitz to put the Cardinals into a third-and-long situation.</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">Scott did not run the 40-yard dash at the Combine, saving that for his Pro Day. The unofficial time of 4.25 seconds certainly turned heads, but even the more conservative time of 4.37 seconds that was reported is an eye-popping number.</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">Scott might not be a “sleeper” in the minds of some, as he could be drafted on Day 2. But he might be one of my favorite players in this entire class to watch, so I’m putting him here.</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"><strong>Expected Draft Rounds: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/keionte-scott">Rounds 2-3</a></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Wesley Williams, EDGE, Duke</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The production might not be there.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Wesley Williams recorded just a pair of sacks in 2025, a year after recording 7.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for a loss. But when you watch him on film, you see a pass rusher with a plan, a tool kit to work with, and the ability to tie it all together.</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">Take this play against Virginia, where he is working against the left tackle:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Williams uses his hands to perfection, swatting away the blocking attempt before dipping around the edge, putting a shot on the quarterback just as he releases a throw.</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">Pressure is production, and Williams can generate pressure on the opposing passer. He can win with power, speed, and technique off the edge. He also posted the ninth-best vertical among defensive ends at the Combine, checking in at 35.5 inches. That speaks to his power and explosiveness off the edge.</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">Williams might be available late into Day 3, but some team is going to take advantage of that fact when they turn in a card with his name on it.</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"><strong>Expected Draft Round: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/wesley-williams">Rounds 6-7</a></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Eli Heidenreich, Football Player, Navy</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">You knew this name was going to make an appearance.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I’ve listed Navy’s Eli Heidenreich as a “football player” because his skillset is so unique. Coming out of Navy’s option-heavy offense, Heidenreich lined up at various spots for the Midshipmen as one of their “Snipe” players, best described as a hybrid slot back/running back/wide receiver. You might see him aligned in the offensive backfield on first down, in the wing on second, and then in the slot on third.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">During the 2025 season, Heidenreich tallied 1,440 yards from scrimmage, including 499 rushing yards (on just 77 carries, for 6.9 yards per attempt) while catching 51 passes for 941 yards and six touchdowns.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">And not all of those receptions were bubble screens or checkdowns. Not by a long shot:</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">Heidenreich’s incredible Combine — <a href="https://x.com/mikerenner_/status/2039440201076854998">where he posted numbers similar</a> to Christian McCaffrey — has many dreaming that he could become that kind of player at the next level. That kind of comparison is lofty, and seems a long way off.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But what Heidenreich could be is still very valuable to an NFL team, and that is an offensive weapon who can create mismatches all over the field thanks to his athleticism and versatility.</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 certainly worth a pick on Day 3.</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"><strong>Expected Draft Round: </strong><a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2026/eli-heidenreich">Rounds 6-7</a></p></div></div> #NFL #Drafts #biggest #sleepers #turn #steals

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IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer on limited chances at RCB — Sitting in the wings doesn’t mean I am not part of the plan <div id="content-body-70893506" itemprop="articleBody"><p>IPL 2026 has been a double whammy for Venkatesh Iyer. So strong is the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad that he has featured in just one of six games.</p><p>And in that match, because of the Impact Player rule, the all-rounder could only showcase one of his two skills.</p><p>But the 31-year-old, who played leading roles in Kolkata Knight Riders’ title dash in 2024 and the runner-up finish in 2021, remains upbeat.</p><p>“I am not used to sitting out, but as someone who places the team above everything else, it’s my duty to adhere to the environment,” Venkatesh, who was signed for Rs. 7 crore, told reporters on Wednesday. “RCB is the defending champion. To tinker with a winning combination is not always the smartest move.</p><p>“Sitting in the wings doesn’t mean that I am not part of the plan. I got one opportunity and I was extremely delighted that I scored (29 n.o., from 15 balls versus Rajasthan Royals). Right now, I am backing the boys 100 per cent to do the job.”</p><p>Interestingly, from the 2023 season when the Impact Player rule was introduced, Venkatesh has bowled all of six balls in 41 outings.</p><p>“Impact Player [rule] never stopped a Hardik [Pandya] or a [Andre] Russell or a [Sunil] Narine from bowling four overs,” Venkatesh opined. “It’s not stopping Nitish Reddy either. It actually pushes you to be the best all-rounder version that you can be.</p><p>“But it does curtail the opportunity for the one- and two-over bowlers. If I am the captain, I need to figure out how to use my five [specialist] bowlers and how to give my sixth [part-time] bowler a go. But here, your sixth bowler is also a specialist bowler. So there is cushion for strategising.”</p><p>Venkatesh, though, is not giving up on his bowling.</p><p>“I know that I won’t be bowling four overs [in white-ball cricket]. So I try to identify someone who has played a lot of red-ball cricket.</p><p>“I had Mitchell Starc [at KKR in 2024]. This year, I have Josh Hazlewood. I make it a point to have conversations because I want to win Madhya Pradesh the Ranji Trophy once again. And I know that I can do it with a ball in hand.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 22, 2026</p></div> #IPL #Venkatesh #Iyer #limited #chances #RCB #Sitting #wings #doesnt #part #plan

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Deadspin | NFL draft sees surprises galore after Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza slam dunk Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey embraces NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after he is selected by the New York Jets as the number two pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Fernando Mendoza’s next mission might be his toughest yet: Try to turn Sin City into Win City. The Las Vegas Raiders tabbed Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday. The 22-year-old will be the centerpiece of a franchise rebuild following his meteoric rise at Indiana, where he won the Heisman Trophy and led the program to its first national title. Mendoza had 41 touchdown passes and six interceptions for Indiana last season, completing 72% of his passes to post a perfect 16-0 record not many outside the program saw coming. Indiana entered the season with the most losses in FBS history (715). It came as no surprise that the Raiders, who finished 3-14 in 2025, used their top pick on Mendoza. The selection had been expected for months as Las Vegas eyed a potential franchise quarterback, and now the only question is whether Mendoza will immediately step in as the starter or whether he will serve as an understudy to veteran Kirk Cousins to start the season. What the Raiders’ top pick lacked in suspense, the rest of the top 10 made up for with surprises. The New York Jets tapped Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey with the No. 2 pick. Bailey racked up 14.5 sacks in 14 games last season, and he prompted the Jets to bypass highly touted edge rusher Arvell Reese to select him instead. At No. 3, the Arizona Cardinals added Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. The Cardinals had needs at other positions but decided they could not skip out on a home-run hitter in Love, who averaged 6.9 yards per carry and rushed for 18 touchdowns last season. The Titans added another twist at No. 4 when they bypassed high-end defenders to select wideout Carnell Tate from Ohio State. In 2025, Tate caught 51 passes and hauled in nine touchdowns. Tate had a message for Cam Ward, his new quarterback with the Titans. “I’m a reliable target for him,” Tate said. “Whenever he needs me, I’m there for him. I’m always open.” The New York Giants pounced on Reese at No. 5, where he will join what could be one of the league’s more talented pass-rushing units. “The Giants told me they’re going to get unique with me,” Reese said. “They said they’re going to use me in a bunch of unique ways. I’m looking forward to that.” Next came the first trade of the evening, as the Kansas City Chiefs struck a deal with the Cleveland Browns to move up from No. 9 to No. 6. To jump three spots on the draft board, the Chiefs gave up a third-round pick (No. 74) overall and a fifth-round pick (No. 148 overall). Kansas City then selected LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane. Delane said the Chiefs were not heavily involved in his pre-draft process, a tactic that appeared to be subterfuge as soon as they called his name. “They said they just wanted to keep it quiet and make that sneak move,” Delane said. “And they made the best move in the draft. So I’m excited.” The Washington Commanders followed at No. 7 by selecting linebacker Sonny Styles — the third Buckeye to go in the top seven picks. At No. 8, the New Orleans Saints drafted Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. A pair of offensive linemen rounded out the top 10. Cleveland got first dibs as it used the No. 9 pick to select tackle Spencer Fano from Utah. Moments later, the Giants took advantage of their second pick of the first round to take Miami Hurricanes tackle Francis Mauigoa at No. 10. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NFL #draft #sees #surprises #galore #Raiders #Fernando #Mendoza #slam #dunkApr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey embraces NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after he is selected by the New York Jets as the number two pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Fernando Mendoza’s next mission might be his toughest yet: Try to turn Sin City into Win City.

The Las Vegas Raiders tabbed Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday. The 22-year-old will be the centerpiece of a franchise rebuild following his meteoric rise at Indiana, where he won the Heisman Trophy and led the program to its first national title.

Mendoza had 41 touchdown passes and six interceptions for Indiana last season, completing 72% of his passes to post a perfect 16-0 record not many outside the program saw coming. Indiana entered the season with the most losses in FBS history (715).

It came as no surprise that the Raiders, who finished 3-14 in 2025, used their top pick on Mendoza. The selection had been expected for months as Las Vegas eyed a potential franchise quarterback, and now the only question is whether Mendoza will immediately step in as the starter or whether he will serve as an understudy to veteran Kirk Cousins to start the season.

What the Raiders’ top pick lacked in suspense, the rest of the top 10 made up for with surprises.

The New York Jets tapped Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey with the No. 2 pick. Bailey racked up 14.5 sacks in 14 games last season, and he prompted the Jets to bypass highly touted edge rusher Arvell Reese to select him instead.

At No. 3, the Arizona Cardinals added Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. The Cardinals had needs at other positions but decided they could not skip out on a home-run hitter in Love, who averaged 6.9 yards per carry and rushed for 18 touchdowns last season.

The Titans added another twist at No. 4 when they bypassed high-end defenders to select wideout Carnell Tate from Ohio State. In 2025, Tate caught 51 passes and hauled in nine touchdowns.

Tate had a message for Cam Ward, his new quarterback with the Titans.


“I’m a reliable target for him,” Tate said. “Whenever he needs me, I’m there for him. I’m always open.”

The New York Giants pounced on Reese at No. 5, where he will join what could be one of the league’s more talented pass-rushing units.

“The Giants told me they’re going to get unique with me,” Reese said. “They said they’re going to use me in a bunch of unique ways. I’m looking forward to that.”

Next came the first trade of the evening, as the Kansas City Chiefs struck a deal with the Cleveland Browns to move up from No. 9 to No. 6. To jump three spots on the draft board, the Chiefs gave up a third-round pick (No. 74) overall and a fifth-round pick (No. 148 overall).

Kansas City then selected LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane.

Delane said the Chiefs were not heavily involved in his pre-draft process, a tactic that appeared to be subterfuge as soon as they called his name.

“They said they just wanted to keep it quiet and make that sneak move,” Delane said. “And they made the best move in the draft. So I’m excited.”

The Washington Commanders followed at No. 7 by selecting linebacker Sonny Styles — the third Buckeye to go in the top seven picks. At No. 8, the New Orleans Saints drafted Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.

A pair of offensive linemen rounded out the top 10.

Cleveland got first dibs as it used the No. 9 pick to select tackle Spencer Fano from Utah. Moments later, the Giants took advantage of their second pick of the first round to take Miami Hurricanes tackle Francis Mauigoa at No. 10.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #NFL #draft #sees #surprises #galore #Raiders #Fernando #Mendoza #slam #dunk">Deadspin | NFL draft sees surprises galore after Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza slam dunk Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey embraces NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after he is selected by the New York Jets as the number two pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Fernando Mendoza’s next mission might be his toughest yet: Try to turn Sin City into Win City. The Las Vegas Raiders tabbed Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday. The 22-year-old will be the centerpiece of a franchise rebuild following his meteoric rise at Indiana, where he won the Heisman Trophy and led the program to its first national title. Mendoza had 41 touchdown passes and six interceptions for Indiana last season, completing 72% of his passes to post a perfect 16-0 record not many outside the program saw coming. Indiana entered the season with the most losses in FBS history (715). It came as no surprise that the Raiders, who finished 3-14 in 2025, used their top pick on Mendoza. The selection had been expected for months as Las Vegas eyed a potential franchise quarterback, and now the only question is whether Mendoza will immediately step in as the starter or whether he will serve as an understudy to veteran Kirk Cousins to start the season. What the Raiders’ top pick lacked in suspense, the rest of the top 10 made up for with surprises. The New York Jets tapped Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey with the No. 2 pick. Bailey racked up 14.5 sacks in 14 games last season, and he prompted the Jets to bypass highly touted edge rusher Arvell Reese to select him instead. At No. 3, the Arizona Cardinals added Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. The Cardinals had needs at other positions but decided they could not skip out on a home-run hitter in Love, who averaged 6.9 yards per carry and rushed for 18 touchdowns last season. The Titans added another twist at No. 4 when they bypassed high-end defenders to select wideout Carnell Tate from Ohio State. In 2025, Tate caught 51 passes and hauled in nine touchdowns. Tate had a message for Cam Ward, his new quarterback with the Titans. “I’m a reliable target for him,” Tate said. “Whenever he needs me, I’m there for him. I’m always open.” The New York Giants pounced on Reese at No. 5, where he will join what could be one of the league’s more talented pass-rushing units. “The Giants told me they’re going to get unique with me,” Reese said. “They said they’re going to use me in a bunch of unique ways. I’m looking forward to that.” Next came the first trade of the evening, as the Kansas City Chiefs struck a deal with the Cleveland Browns to move up from No. 9 to No. 6. To jump three spots on the draft board, the Chiefs gave up a third-round pick (No. 74) overall and a fifth-round pick (No. 148 overall). Kansas City then selected LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane. Delane said the Chiefs were not heavily involved in his pre-draft process, a tactic that appeared to be subterfuge as soon as they called his name. “They said they just wanted to keep it quiet and make that sneak move,” Delane said. “And they made the best move in the draft. So I’m excited.” The Washington Commanders followed at No. 7 by selecting linebacker Sonny Styles — the third Buckeye to go in the top seven picks. At No. 8, the New Orleans Saints drafted Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. A pair of offensive linemen rounded out the top 10. Cleveland got first dibs as it used the No. 9 pick to select tackle Spencer Fano from Utah. Moments later, the Giants took advantage of their second pick of the first round to take Miami Hurricanes tackle Francis Mauigoa at No. 10. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NFL #draft #sees #surprises #galore #Raiders #Fernando #Mendoza #slam #dunk

India began its Thomas Cup campaign with a 3-1 lead over Canada in the first round with Srikanth Kidambi’s game still left at the Forum Horsens, Court 2 in Denmark on Friday.

Ayush Shetty and double pairs of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, and Hariharan Amsakarunan and M.R Arjun won their respective games.

Ayush beat Brian Yang 21-13, 21-17 while Satwik-Chirag won 21-10, 21-11 over Jonathan Lai and Kevin Lee. Amsakarunan and Arjun pair defeated Ty Alexander Lindeman and Nyl Yakura 21-7,

Lakshya Sen, however, lost 21-18, 19-21, 10-21 to Victor Lai in the first match.

– More to follow

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Thomas #Cup #India #takes #lead #Canada #opener #Lakshya #Sen #loss">Thomas Cup 2026: India takes lead over Canada in opener despite Lakshya Sen loss India began its Thomas Cup campaign with a 3-1 lead over Canada in the first round with Srikanth Kidambi’s game still left at the Forum Horsens, Court 2 in Denmark on Friday.Ayush Shetty and double pairs of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, and Hariharan Amsakarunan and M.R Arjun won their respective games.Ayush beat Brian Yang 21-13, 21-17 while Satwik-Chirag won 21-10, 21-11 over Jonathan Lai and Kevin Lee. Amsakarunan and Arjun pair defeated Ty Alexander Lindeman and Nyl Yakura 21-7,Lakshya Sen, however, lost 21-18, 19-21, 10-21 to Victor Lai in the first match.– More to followPublished on Apr 24, 2026 #Thomas #Cup #India #takes #lead #Canada #opener #Lakshya #Sen #loss

Deadspin | NBA fines Suns’ Devin Booker K but rescind his technical Apr 22, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; NBA referee JB DeRosa calls a technical on Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) in the second half during game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images One day after calling a referee’s performance “terrible,” Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker received a ,000 fine from the NBA on Thursday for his comments — but he did receive some vindication from the league. The NBA rescinded the technical foul called against Booker late in the third quarter, announcing it was “improperly assessed.” After the Suns lost 120-107 to the host Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, falling behind the defending champions 2-0 in a best-of-seven Western Conference quarterfinal series, Booker expressed his thoughts on the officiating. “It’s definitely something that has to be looked at,” Booker said postgame. “I heard (Oklahoma City’s Alex) Caruso tell them to call the tech, and he ended up doing it. In my 11 years, I haven’t called a ref out by name, but James (Williams) was terrible tonight.” He added, “Whatever I get fined for, everybody can pull the clips and see where the frustration comes from.” NBA executive vice president and head of basketball operations James Jones issued the fine. The accompanying press release also addressed Booker’s allegations, saying, “Following an investigation including multiple interviews and video review, the league found no basis to any claim of bias or misconduct by game officials.” However, the league went on to state that Booker’s technical foul was overturned. Booker finished with 22 points and seven rebounds on Wednesday after he had 23 points and six boards in Game 1 on Sunday. In 64 regular-season starts this campaign, he averaged 26.1 points, 6.0 assists and 3.9 rebounds. In 11 NBA seasons, all with the Suns, Booker has been an All-Star five times. He has career averages of 24.6 points, 5.3 assists and 4.0 rebounds in 737 games (712 starts). –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NBA #fines #Suns #Devin #Booker #35K #rescind #technicalApr 22, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; NBA referee JB DeRosa calls a technical on Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) in the second half during game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

One day after calling a referee’s performance “terrible,” Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker received a $35,000 fine from the NBA on Thursday for his comments — but he did receive some vindication from the league.

The NBA rescinded the technical foul called against Booker late in the third quarter, announcing it was “improperly assessed.”

After the Suns lost 120-107 to the host Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, falling behind the defending champions 2-0 in a best-of-seven Western Conference quarterfinal series, Booker expressed his thoughts on the officiating.

“It’s definitely something that has to be looked at,” Booker said postgame. “I heard (Oklahoma City’s Alex) Caruso tell them to call the tech, and he ended up doing it. In my 11 years, I haven’t called a ref out by name, but James (Williams) was terrible tonight.”


He added, “Whatever I get fined for, everybody can pull the clips and see where the frustration comes from.”

NBA executive vice president and head of basketball operations James Jones issued the fine. The accompanying press release also addressed Booker’s allegations, saying, “Following an investigation including multiple interviews and video review, the league found no basis to any claim of bias or misconduct by game officials.”

However, the league went on to state that Booker’s technical foul was overturned.

Booker finished with 22 points and seven rebounds on Wednesday after he had 23 points and six boards in Game 1 on Sunday. In 64 regular-season starts this campaign, he averaged 26.1 points, 6.0 assists and 3.9 rebounds.

In 11 NBA seasons, all with the Suns, Booker has been an All-Star five times. He has career averages of 24.6 points, 5.3 assists and 4.0 rebounds in 737 games (712 starts).


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #NBA #fines #Suns #Devin #Booker #35K #rescind #technical">Deadspin | NBA fines Suns’ Devin Booker K but rescind his technical Apr 22, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; NBA referee JB DeRosa calls a technical on Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) in the second half during game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images One day after calling a referee’s performance “terrible,” Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker received a ,000 fine from the NBA on Thursday for his comments — but he did receive some vindication from the league. The NBA rescinded the technical foul called against Booker late in the third quarter, announcing it was “improperly assessed.” After the Suns lost 120-107 to the host Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, falling behind the defending champions 2-0 in a best-of-seven Western Conference quarterfinal series, Booker expressed his thoughts on the officiating. “It’s definitely something that has to be looked at,” Booker said postgame. “I heard (Oklahoma City’s Alex) Caruso tell them to call the tech, and he ended up doing it. In my 11 years, I haven’t called a ref out by name, but James (Williams) was terrible tonight.” He added, “Whatever I get fined for, everybody can pull the clips and see where the frustration comes from.” NBA executive vice president and head of basketball operations James Jones issued the fine. The accompanying press release also addressed Booker’s allegations, saying, “Following an investigation including multiple interviews and video review, the league found no basis to any claim of bias or misconduct by game officials.” However, the league went on to state that Booker’s technical foul was overturned. Booker finished with 22 points and seven rebounds on Wednesday after he had 23 points and six boards in Game 1 on Sunday. In 64 regular-season starts this campaign, he averaged 26.1 points, 6.0 assists and 3.9 rebounds. In 11 NBA seasons, all with the Suns, Booker has been an All-Star five times. He has career averages of 24.6 points, 5.3 assists and 4.0 rebounds in 737 games (712 starts). –Field Level Media #Deadspin #NBA #fines #Suns #Devin #Booker #35K #rescind #technical

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