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Deadspin | Surging Braves set to open series against ‘grinding’ Phillies Apr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) hits a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies are trending in opposite directions heading into their first matchup of the season Friday. The visiting Braves have won three series in a row, taking two of three from the Los Angeles Angels, Cleveland Guardians and Miami Marlins over the last two weeks. Most recently, Atlanta won its final two against Miami, including a 6-3 victory Wednesday. “When you start to win games and you start to win series, you start to believe,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said. “I go back to the stuff I was saying in spring training and at the end of camp. It’s just a really good vibe and the guys have a really good look in their eyes. They’re playing that way.” Bryce Elder pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings Wednesday to lower his ERA to 0.77, while Matt Olson, Austin Riley and Ozzie Albies all hit home runs for Atlanta. “It’s good offense,” said Weiss, whose team is the only one with a winning record in the National League East. “Especially when we get everyone rolling, it’s going to be a really good offense.” Philadelphia has lost three series in a row, dropping two of three against the San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs. The Phillies were pounded 11-2 by the Cubs on Wednesday as Jesus Luzardo gave up nine runs (eight earned) on 12 hits in 5 1/3 innings. “You’ve got to keep grinding,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “We’re going through a tough time right now in all phases of the game. I don’t think that’s any secret, but we’re going to get better. We’re a good club.” Trea Turner and Bryce Harper hit solo home runs for Philadelphia, while Adolis Garcia notched two hits. Still, the Phillies lost their third home series of the season — as many as they lost at home all of last year. “Obviously, we want to win,” Harper said. “It’s the main goal of why we’re here. You never want to lose games. Obviously, it’s early in the season, but I don’t like that notion because I like to win games in April as much as I like to win games in September.” Harper will face Atlanta left-hander Martin Perez (0-1, 3.14 ERA), who was designated for assignment on Sunday but brought back after he passed through waivers and elected free agency. The 35-year-old allowed one run and two hits in five innings against Cleveland on Saturday. Perez has made 10 appearances (nine starts) against Philadelphia, going 4-1 with a 3.78 ERA. The Phillies will give the nod to right-hander Taijuan Walker (1-2, 7.36), who has given up nine first-inning runs in his three starts, but just four runs outside of the first. He allowed two runs in the first inning against the Diamondbacks on Saturday before following that up with four scoreless frames in a 4-3 triumph. “Yeah, we’ve been trying a few things — we’re trying to figure it out, just haven’t gotten it yet,” Walker said. “I feel like after the first inning, everything is good, I get in a little groove. So, just got to figure out that first inning.” In 11 career appearances (10 starts) against Atlanta, Walker is 3-2 with a 4.63 ERA. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Surging #Braves #set #open #series #grinding #Phillies

Deadspin | Surging Braves set to open series against ‘grinding’ Phillies
Deadspin | Surging Braves set to open series against ‘grinding’ Phillies Apr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) hits a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies are trending in opposite directions heading into their first matchup of the season Friday. The visiting Braves have won three series in a row, taking two of three from the Los Angeles Angels, Cleveland Guardians and Miami Marlins over the last two weeks. Most recently, Atlanta won its final two against Miami, including a 6-3 victory Wednesday. “When you start to win games and you start to win series, you start to believe,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said. “I go back to the stuff I was saying in spring training and at the end of camp. It’s just a really good vibe and the guys have a really good look in their eyes. They’re playing that way.” Bryce Elder pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings Wednesday to lower his ERA to 0.77, while Matt Olson, Austin Riley and Ozzie Albies all hit home runs for Atlanta. “It’s good offense,” said Weiss, whose team is the only one with a winning record in the National League East. “Especially when we get everyone rolling, it’s going to be a really good offense.” Philadelphia has lost three series in a row, dropping two of three against the San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs. The Phillies were pounded 11-2 by the Cubs on Wednesday as Jesus Luzardo gave up nine runs (eight earned) on 12 hits in 5 1/3 innings. “You’ve got to keep grinding,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “We’re going through a tough time right now in all phases of the game. I don’t think that’s any secret, but we’re going to get better. We’re a good club.” Trea Turner and Bryce Harper hit solo home runs for Philadelphia, while Adolis Garcia notched two hits. Still, the Phillies lost their third home series of the season — as many as they lost at home all of last year. “Obviously, we want to win,” Harper said. “It’s the main goal of why we’re here. You never want to lose games. Obviously, it’s early in the season, but I don’t like that notion because I like to win games in April as much as I like to win games in September.” Harper will face Atlanta left-hander Martin Perez (0-1, 3.14 ERA), who was designated for assignment on Sunday but brought back after he passed through waivers and elected free agency. The 35-year-old allowed one run and two hits in five innings against Cleveland on Saturday. Perez has made 10 appearances (nine starts) against Philadelphia, going 4-1 with a 3.78 ERA. The Phillies will give the nod to right-hander Taijuan Walker (1-2, 7.36), who has given up nine first-inning runs in his three starts, but just four runs outside of the first. He allowed two runs in the first inning against the Diamondbacks on Saturday before following that up with four scoreless frames in a 4-3 triumph. “Yeah, we’ve been trying a few things — we’re trying to figure it out, just haven’t gotten it yet,” Walker said. “I feel like after the first inning, everything is good, I get in a little groove. So, just got to figure out that first inning.” In 11 career appearances (10 starts) against Atlanta, Walker is 3-2 with a 4.63 ERA. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Surging #Braves #set #open #series #grinding #PhilliesApr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) hits a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies are trending in opposite directions heading into their first matchup of the season Friday.

The visiting Braves have won three series in a row, taking two of three from the Los Angeles Angels, Cleveland Guardians and Miami Marlins over the last two weeks. Most recently, Atlanta won its final two against Miami, including a 6-3 victory Wednesday.

“When you start to win games and you start to win series, you start to believe,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said. “I go back to the stuff I was saying in spring training and at the end of camp. It’s just a really good vibe and the guys have a really good look in their eyes. They’re playing that way.”

Bryce Elder pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings Wednesday to lower his ERA to 0.77, while Matt Olson, Austin Riley and Ozzie Albies all hit home runs for Atlanta.

“It’s good offense,” said Weiss, whose team is the only one with a winning record in the National League East. “Especially when we get everyone rolling, it’s going to be a really good offense.”

Philadelphia has lost three series in a row, dropping two of three against the San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs. The Phillies were pounded 11-2 by the Cubs on Wednesday as Jesus Luzardo gave up nine runs (eight earned) on 12 hits in 5 1/3 innings.

“You’ve got to keep grinding,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “We’re going through a tough time right now in all phases of the game. I don’t think that’s any secret, but we’re going to get better. We’re a good club.”


Trea Turner and Bryce Harper hit solo home runs for Philadelphia, while Adolis Garcia notched two hits. Still, the Phillies lost their third home series of the season — as many as they lost at home all of last year.

“Obviously, we want to win,” Harper said. “It’s the main goal of why we’re here. You never want to lose games. Obviously, it’s early in the season, but I don’t like that notion because I like to win games in April as much as I like to win games in September.”

Harper will face Atlanta left-hander Martin Perez (0-1, 3.14 ERA), who was designated for assignment on Sunday but brought back after he passed through waivers and elected free agency. The 35-year-old allowed one run and two hits in five innings against Cleveland on Saturday.

Perez has made 10 appearances (nine starts) against Philadelphia, going 4-1 with a 3.78 ERA.

The Phillies will give the nod to right-hander Taijuan Walker (1-2, 7.36), who has given up nine first-inning runs in his three starts, but just four runs outside of the first. He allowed two runs in the first inning against the Diamondbacks on Saturday before following that up with four scoreless frames in a 4-3 triumph.

“Yeah, we’ve been trying a few things — we’re trying to figure it out, just haven’t gotten it yet,” Walker said. “I feel like after the first inning, everything is good, I get in a little groove. So, just got to figure out that first inning.”

In 11 career appearances (10 starts) against Atlanta, Walker is 3-2 with a 4.63 ERA.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Surging #Braves #set #open #series #grinding #Phillies

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Apr 15, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) hits a home run against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Truist Park. All players are wearing number 42 today in honor of Jackie Robinson. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies are trending in opposite directions heading into their first matchup of the season Friday.

The visiting Braves have won three series in a row, taking two of three from the Los Angeles Angels, Cleveland Guardians and Miami Marlins over the last two weeks. Most recently, Atlanta won its final two against Miami, including a 6-3 victory Wednesday.

“When you start to win games and you start to win series, you start to believe,” Braves manager Walt Weiss said. “I go back to the stuff I was saying in spring training and at the end of camp. It’s just a really good vibe and the guys have a really good look in their eyes. They’re playing that way.”

Bryce Elder pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings Wednesday to lower his ERA to 0.77, while Matt Olson, Austin Riley and Ozzie Albies all hit home runs for Atlanta.

“It’s good offense,” said Weiss, whose team is the only one with a winning record in the National League East. “Especially when we get everyone rolling, it’s going to be a really good offense.”

Philadelphia has lost three series in a row, dropping two of three against the San Francisco Giants, Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs. The Phillies were pounded 11-2 by the Cubs on Wednesday as Jesus Luzardo gave up nine runs (eight earned) on 12 hits in 5 1/3 innings.

“You’ve got to keep grinding,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “We’re going through a tough time right now in all phases of the game. I don’t think that’s any secret, but we’re going to get better. We’re a good club.”

Trea Turner and Bryce Harper hit solo home runs for Philadelphia, while Adolis Garcia notched two hits. Still, the Phillies lost their third home series of the season — as many as they lost at home all of last year.

“Obviously, we want to win,” Harper said. “It’s the main goal of why we’re here. You never want to lose games. Obviously, it’s early in the season, but I don’t like that notion because I like to win games in April as much as I like to win games in September.”

Harper will face Atlanta left-hander Martin Perez (0-1, 3.14 ERA), who was designated for assignment on Sunday but brought back after he passed through waivers and elected free agency. The 35-year-old allowed one run and two hits in five innings against Cleveland on Saturday.

Perez has made 10 appearances (nine starts) against Philadelphia, going 4-1 with a 3.78 ERA.

The Phillies will give the nod to right-hander Taijuan Walker (1-2, 7.36), who has given up nine first-inning runs in his three starts, but just four runs outside of the first. He allowed two runs in the first inning against the Diamondbacks on Saturday before following that up with four scoreless frames in a 4-3 triumph.

“Yeah, we’ve been trying a few things — we’re trying to figure it out, just haven’t gotten it yet,” Walker said. “I feel like after the first inning, everything is good, I get in a little groove. So, just got to figure out that first inning.”

In 11 career appearances (10 starts) against Atlanta, Walker is 3-2 with a 4.63 ERA.

–Field Level Media

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Ayush Shetty: Asian Championship run gives me confidence that I can maintain level for longer period <div id="content-body-70870302" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Last month, when India’s squad for the Thomas & Uber Cup was announced, Ayush Shetty was a young-and-upcoming 20-year-old who was getting his maiden call up.</p><p>When India takes to the court in Denmark from April 24, he will be its most in-form player, having made a stirring run to the Badminton Asia Championships (BAC) final in China last week.</p><p>He has broken into the world’s top-20 and there will be expectations galore. But he is confidence personified, despite 2026 being only his second full year on the senior circuit.</p><p>“My expectations [from myself] are always high, and I take people’s expectations as a challenge,” Ayush said at the Centre for Badminton Excellence here on Thursday.</p><p>“When I won the Super 300 [U.S. Open in 2025], I did not see it as a surprise. Even when I got a confirmed medal at the Asian Championship, I believed that I could win the tournament,” the World No. 18 added.</p><p>This confidence manifested in three straight victories over top-10 players at BAC – the then World No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn, No. 4 Jonatan Christie and No. 7 Li Shi Feng.</p><p>“I had never beaten three top-10 players,” stated Ayush, who was No. 25 then. “It has always been like one victory [over an elite player] and then a loss. This run gives me the confidence that I can maintain my level for a longer period. Even my second round opponent Chi Yu Jen (No. 20) was a very tricky player.</p><p>“Going into the All England [in early March], I felt that I was at my 100%. But the results were different (first round defeat). That is why BAC was important – to keep my confidence and belief high.”</p><p>The one dull moment in an otherwise golden few days for Ayush was the retirement on Tuesday of double Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen, whom he idolises and has even trained with in Dubai.</p><p>“It’s a bit sad. I always wanted him to retire on the court. He deserved it,” said Ayush about the great Dane who last played competitively in October 2025.</p><p>“I had told him in 2024 that we will play [competitively] soon. He said ‘sure, I have a couple of more years’. I will always have the regret that I could never play him.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 16, 2026</p></div> #Ayush #Shetty #Asian #Championship #run #confidence #maintain #level #longer #period

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Lebron James Needs One More Miracle To Carry Lakers Without Doncic, Reaves | Deadspin.com Jan 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) wears a patch affixed to the upper right chest to celebrate his record-setting 23rd NBA season during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images Los Angeles Lakers head coach, JJ Reddick, announced that both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are still out indefinitely, and did not give a timeline for either’s return. It’s a shame that neither play will likely be available in the first round, as the Lakers looked like they were finally figuring out how to play with LeBron James in a less ball-dominant role. In his age-41 season, it was interesting to see how Reddick was able to get LeBron involved as a cutter on offense and even get him to buy in more on defense.However, as has been the case through large portions of LeBron’s career, he will have to bear a heavy burden of his team’s production if they want to pull off a first-round upset over the Houston Rockets.They’ve done a solid job steadying the boat after Doncic and Reaves went down on 4/2, going 3-2 to close out the season and lock in the four seed. LeBron excelled over that stretch, but against an athletic Rockets defense, who else can step up in the series?The biggest problem? There’s no Robin to LeBron’s Batman left and healthy on this roster. This entire team is loaded with role players and needs to work off a ball-dominant distributor. LeBron James has to tap into his younger self one last time, and I honestly think that’s what he can and will do.Entering the playoffs, this is the worst supporting cast around James since the 2018 Cavs. LeBron went on to have his most impressive playoff run in his career that season, and wouldn’t it be perfect for the league if LeBron had one more run in him?The Lakers do have the best matchup available to let this happen. The Rockets have been an inconsistent offensive squad, and getting reliable, efficient offense outside of Kevin Durant has been quite difficult for Houston.Also, without Steven Adams, the Rockets lack a physical presence in the paint, and LeBron should be able to get downhill and provide needed rim pressure for Los Angeles.Even in his age-41 season, I’ll always think LeBron can reach that next level. Everyone is fading the Lakers in the first round, and I think I love betting them at +520 to win this first series. It’s not the same LeBron as years past, but never count that man out at any point until he’s fully out of the league. #Lebron #James #Miracle #Carry #Lakers #Doncic #Reaves #Deadspin.comJan 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) wears a patch affixed to the upper right chest to celebrate his record-setting 23rd NBA season during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers head coach, JJ Reddick, announced that both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are still out indefinitely, and did not give a timeline for either’s return.


It’s a shame that neither play will likely be available in the first round, as the Lakers looked like they were finally figuring out how to play with LeBron James in a less ball-dominant role. In his age-41 season, it was interesting to see how Reddick was able to get LeBron involved as a cutter on offense and even get him to buy in more on defense.

However, as has been the case through large portions of LeBron’s career, he will have to bear a heavy burden of his team’s production if they want to pull off a first-round upset over the Houston Rockets.

They’ve done a solid job steadying the boat after Doncic and Reaves went down on 4/2, going 3-2 to close out the season and lock in the four seed. LeBron excelled over that stretch, but against an athletic Rockets defense, who else can step up in the series?

The biggest problem? There’s no Robin to LeBron’s Batman left and healthy on this roster. This entire team is loaded with role players and needs to work off a ball-dominant distributor. LeBron James has to tap into his younger self one last time, and I honestly think that’s what he can and will do.

Entering the playoffs, this is the worst supporting cast around James since the 2018 Cavs. LeBron went on to have his most impressive playoff run in his career that season, and wouldn’t it be perfect for the league if LeBron had one more run in him?

The Lakers do have the best matchup available to let this happen. The Rockets have been an inconsistent offensive squad, and getting reliable, efficient offense outside of Kevin Durant has been quite difficult for Houston.

Also, without Steven Adams, the Rockets lack a physical presence in the paint, and LeBron should be able to get downhill and provide needed rim pressure for Los Angeles.

Even in his age-41 season, I’ll always think LeBron can reach that next level. Everyone is fading the Lakers in the first round, and I think I love betting them at +520 to win this first series. It’s not the same LeBron as years past, but never count that man out at any point until he’s fully out of the league.

#Lebron #James #Miracle #Carry #Lakers #Doncic #Reaves #Deadspin.com">Lebron James Needs One More Miracle To Carry Lakers Without Doncic, Reaves | Deadspin.com Jan 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) wears a patch affixed to the upper right chest to celebrate his record-setting 23rd NBA season during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images Los Angeles Lakers head coach, JJ Reddick, announced that both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are still out indefinitely, and did not give a timeline for either’s return. It’s a shame that neither play will likely be available in the first round, as the Lakers looked like they were finally figuring out how to play with LeBron James in a less ball-dominant role. In his age-41 season, it was interesting to see how Reddick was able to get LeBron involved as a cutter on offense and even get him to buy in more on defense.However, as has been the case through large portions of LeBron’s career, he will have to bear a heavy burden of his team’s production if they want to pull off a first-round upset over the Houston Rockets.They’ve done a solid job steadying the boat after Doncic and Reaves went down on 4/2, going 3-2 to close out the season and lock in the four seed. LeBron excelled over that stretch, but against an athletic Rockets defense, who else can step up in the series?The biggest problem? There’s no Robin to LeBron’s Batman left and healthy on this roster. This entire team is loaded with role players and needs to work off a ball-dominant distributor. LeBron James has to tap into his younger self one last time, and I honestly think that’s what he can and will do.Entering the playoffs, this is the worst supporting cast around James since the 2018 Cavs. LeBron went on to have his most impressive playoff run in his career that season, and wouldn’t it be perfect for the league if LeBron had one more run in him?The Lakers do have the best matchup available to let this happen. The Rockets have been an inconsistent offensive squad, and getting reliable, efficient offense outside of Kevin Durant has been quite difficult for Houston.Also, without Steven Adams, the Rockets lack a physical presence in the paint, and LeBron should be able to get downhill and provide needed rim pressure for Los Angeles.Even in his age-41 season, I’ll always think LeBron can reach that next level. Everyone is fading the Lakers in the first round, and I think I love betting them at +520 to win this first series. It’s not the same LeBron as years past, but never count that man out at any point until he’s fully out of the league. #Lebron #James #Miracle #Carry #Lakers #Doncic #Reaves #Deadspin.com

how to play with LeBron James in a less ball-dominant role. In his age-41 season, it was interesting to see how Reddick was able to get LeBron involved as a cutter on offense and even get him to buy in more on defense.

However, as has been the case through large portions of LeBron’s career, he will have to bear a heavy burden of his team’s production if they want to pull off a first-round upset over the Houston Rockets.

They’ve done a solid job steadying the boat after Doncic and Reaves went down on 4/2, going 3-2 to close out the season and lock in the four seed. LeBron excelled over that stretch, but against an athletic Rockets defense, who else can step up in the series?

The biggest problem? There’s no Robin to LeBron’s Batman left and healthy on this roster. This entire team is loaded with role players and needs to work off a ball-dominant distributor. LeBron James has to tap into his younger self one last time, and I honestly think that’s what he can and will do.

Entering the playoffs, this is the worst supporting cast around James since the 2018 Cavs. LeBron went on to have his most impressive playoff run in his career that season, and wouldn’t it be perfect for the league if LeBron had one more run in him?

The Lakers do have the best matchup available to let this happen. The Rockets have been an inconsistent offensive squad, and getting reliable, efficient offense outside of Kevin Durant has been quite difficult for Houston.

Also, without Steven Adams, the Rockets lack a physical presence in the paint, and LeBron should be able to get downhill and provide needed rim pressure for Los Angeles.

Even in his age-41 season, I’ll always think LeBron can reach that next level. Everyone is fading the Lakers in the first round, and I think I love betting them at +520 to win this first series. It’s not the same LeBron as years past, but never count that man out at any point until he’s fully out of the league.

#Lebron #James #Miracle #Carry #Lakers #Doncic #Reaves #Deadspin.com">Lebron James Needs One More Miracle To Carry Lakers Without Doncic, Reaves | Deadspin.com
Lebron James Needs One More Miracle To Carry Lakers Without Doncic, Reaves | Deadspin.com Jan 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) wears a patch affixed to the upper right chest to celebrate his record-setting 23rd NBA season during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images Los Angeles Lakers head coach, JJ Reddick, announced that both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are still out indefinitely, and did not give a timeline for either’s return. It’s a shame that neither play will likely be available in the first round, as the Lakers looked like they were finally figuring out how to play with LeBron James in a less ball-dominant role. In his age-41 season, it was interesting to see how Reddick was able to get LeBron involved as a cutter on offense and even get him to buy in more on defense.However, as has been the case through large portions of LeBron’s career, he will have to bear a heavy burden of his team’s production if they want to pull off a first-round upset over the Houston Rockets.They’ve done a solid job steadying the boat after Doncic and Reaves went down on 4/2, going 3-2 to close out the season and lock in the four seed. LeBron excelled over that stretch, but against an athletic Rockets defense, who else can step up in the series?The biggest problem? There’s no Robin to LeBron’s Batman left and healthy on this roster. This entire team is loaded with role players and needs to work off a ball-dominant distributor. LeBron James has to tap into his younger self one last time, and I honestly think that’s what he can and will do.Entering the playoffs, this is the worst supporting cast around James since the 2018 Cavs. LeBron went on to have his most impressive playoff run in his career that season, and wouldn’t it be perfect for the league if LeBron had one more run in him?The Lakers do have the best matchup available to let this happen. The Rockets have been an inconsistent offensive squad, and getting reliable, efficient offense outside of Kevin Durant has been quite difficult for Houston.Also, without Steven Adams, the Rockets lack a physical presence in the paint, and LeBron should be able to get downhill and provide needed rim pressure for Los Angeles.Even in his age-41 season, I’ll always think LeBron can reach that next level. Everyone is fading the Lakers in the first round, and I think I love betting them at +520 to win this first series. It’s not the same LeBron as years past, but never count that man out at any point until he’s fully out of the league. #Lebron #James #Miracle #Carry #Lakers #Doncic #Reaves #Deadspin.comJan 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) wears a patch affixed to the upper right chest to celebrate his record-setting 23rd NBA season during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers head coach, JJ Reddick, announced that both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are still out indefinitely, and did not give a timeline for either’s return.


It’s a shame that neither play will likely be available in the first round, as the Lakers looked like they were finally figuring out how to play with LeBron James in a less ball-dominant role. In his age-41 season, it was interesting to see how Reddick was able to get LeBron involved as a cutter on offense and even get him to buy in more on defense.

However, as has been the case through large portions of LeBron’s career, he will have to bear a heavy burden of his team’s production if they want to pull off a first-round upset over the Houston Rockets.

They’ve done a solid job steadying the boat after Doncic and Reaves went down on 4/2, going 3-2 to close out the season and lock in the four seed. LeBron excelled over that stretch, but against an athletic Rockets defense, who else can step up in the series?

The biggest problem? There’s no Robin to LeBron’s Batman left and healthy on this roster. This entire team is loaded with role players and needs to work off a ball-dominant distributor. LeBron James has to tap into his younger self one last time, and I honestly think that’s what he can and will do.

Entering the playoffs, this is the worst supporting cast around James since the 2018 Cavs. LeBron went on to have his most impressive playoff run in his career that season, and wouldn’t it be perfect for the league if LeBron had one more run in him?

The Lakers do have the best matchup available to let this happen. The Rockets have been an inconsistent offensive squad, and getting reliable, efficient offense outside of Kevin Durant has been quite difficult for Houston.

Also, without Steven Adams, the Rockets lack a physical presence in the paint, and LeBron should be able to get downhill and provide needed rim pressure for Los Angeles.

Even in his age-41 season, I’ll always think LeBron can reach that next level. Everyone is fading the Lakers in the first round, and I think I love betting them at +520 to win this first series. It’s not the same LeBron as years past, but never count that man out at any point until he’s fully out of the league.

#Lebron #James #Miracle #Carry #Lakers #Doncic #Reaves #Deadspin.com

Ashley Westwood did not mince words after Kerala Blasters’ 1-1 draw with NorthEast United FC on Wednesday.

“Obviously very, very disappointed with the result,” the new coach said at the end of the keenly fought ISL match on the Vishu day. “When you get chances, as good as we had, of course you have to score, and the game is finished and it is over. The longer it goes on at 1-0, they are always going to keep pushing and pushing the opposition and they are going to get chances at this level.”

And that is what happened. The visitors found the equaliser with just a couple of minutes remaining in the normal time.

Westwood, who assumed charge only a fortnight ago midway through a frustrating campaign for Blasters, was hoping his boys would add another three points, after the away victory against Bengaluru FC.

That was, in fact, the last away game for Blasters. All its remaining matches are at home. It will take on Jamshedpur FC on Saturday.

The Blasters remain second from bottom, and therefore still face relegation threat alongside Mohammedan Sporting, which has lost all its seven matches. The two struggling sides come face to face on May 10.

Given the improvement the Blasters have shown under Westwood, and the way the team has become stronger with the additions of Ndiaye Fallou, Karim Benarif and Franchu, there is reason to hope that they could improve the standing before the truncated season is over. But, they need to win games.

Published on Apr 16, 2026

#ISL #Ashley #Westwood #urges #Kerala #Blasters #utilise #chances">ISL 2025-26: Ashley Westwood urges Kerala Blasters to utilise chances Ashley Westwood did not mince words after Kerala Blasters’ 1-1 draw with NorthEast United FC on Wednesday.“Obviously very, very disappointed with the result,” the new coach said at the end of the keenly fought ISL match on the Vishu day. “When you get chances, as good as we had, of course you have to score, and the game is finished and it is over. The longer it goes on at 1-0, they are always going to keep pushing and pushing the opposition and they are going to get chances at this level.”And that is what happened. The visitors found the equaliser with just a couple of minutes remaining in the normal time.Westwood, who assumed charge only a fortnight ago midway through a frustrating campaign for Blasters, was hoping his boys would add another three points, after the away victory against Bengaluru FC.That was, in fact, the last away game for Blasters. All its remaining matches are at home. It will take on Jamshedpur FC on Saturday.The Blasters remain second from bottom, and therefore still face relegation threat alongside Mohammedan Sporting, which has lost all its seven matches. The two struggling sides come face to face on May 10.Given the improvement the Blasters have shown under Westwood, and the way the team has become stronger with the additions of Ndiaye Fallou, Karim Benarif and Franchu, there is reason to hope that they could improve the standing before the truncated season is over. But, they need to win games.Published on Apr 16, 2026 #ISL #Ashley #Westwood #urges #Kerala #Blasters #utilise #chances

Deadspin | Tiger Woods fighting subpoena for prescription drug history Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC tees off during a TGL match Atlanta Drive GC at SoFi Center on March 4, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Tiger Woods’ attorney is challenging a request from prosecutors to subpoena the golfer’s prescription drug records. Woods, 50, has pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor DUI charges related to his rollover crash on March 31 in Florida. Prosecutors are attempting to subpoena the 15-time major winner’s records from a pharmacy in Palm Beach, Fla. They are seeking details about his prescriptions from Jan. 1 to March 27, including the number of times they were filled, the quantity of pills, the dosage amounts and any accompanying instructions with the medication, according to court records obtained by ESPN. Douglas Duncan, Woods’ attorney, filed a motion Wednesday requesting a hearing on the matter and questioning the relevance of the state’s request and whether it violates his client’s privacy rights. “This right is admittedly not absolute should the State show the relevance of the records to its criminal investigation and thus warrant intrusion into Mr. Woods’ privacy,” Duncan wrote in the motion. Officers at the scene of the accident said Woods appeared impaired and had two pills in his pocket. If the court grants the state’s request for the records, Duncan asked the judge to enter a protective order ensuring that Woods’ prescription history is made available only to prosecutors, defense attorneys and law enforcement. “The records shall not be disclosed to any third parties, including Order prohibiting dissemination of the records by the State in response to any public records request,” Duncan wrote. “If and when it becomes necessary for the State to publicly disclose said records or any portion of said records, that a hearing must be held to determine the necessity of said disclosure.” Woods released a statement after the accident saying that he was stepping away from golf to focus on his health. He reportedly entered a treatment facility in Switzerland. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Tiger #Woods #fighting #subpoena #prescription #drug #historyTiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC tees off during a TGL match Atlanta Drive GC at SoFi Center on March 4, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Tiger Woods’ attorney is challenging a request from prosecutors to subpoena the golfer’s prescription drug records.

Woods, 50, has pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor DUI charges related to his rollover crash on March 31 in Florida.

Prosecutors are attempting to subpoena the 15-time major winner’s records from a pharmacy in Palm Beach, Fla. They are seeking details about his prescriptions from Jan. 1 to March 27, including the number of times they were filled, the quantity of pills, the dosage amounts and any accompanying instructions with the medication, according to court records obtained by ESPN.

Douglas Duncan, Woods’ attorney, filed a motion Wednesday requesting a hearing on the matter and questioning the relevance of the state’s request and whether it violates his client’s privacy rights.


“This right is admittedly not absolute should the State show the relevance of the records to its criminal investigation and thus warrant intrusion into Mr. Woods’ privacy,” Duncan wrote in the motion.

Officers at the scene of the accident said Woods appeared impaired and had two pills in his pocket.

If the court grants the state’s request for the records, Duncan asked the judge to enter a protective order ensuring that Woods’ prescription history is made available only to prosecutors, defense attorneys and law enforcement.

“The records shall not be disclosed to any third parties, including Order prohibiting dissemination of the records by the State in response to any public records request,” Duncan wrote. “If and when it becomes necessary for the State to publicly disclose said records or any portion of said records, that a hearing must be held to determine the necessity of said disclosure.”

Woods released a statement after the accident saying that he was stepping away from golf to focus on his health. He reportedly entered a treatment facility in Switzerland.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Tiger #Woods #fighting #subpoena #prescription #drug #history">Deadspin | Tiger Woods fighting subpoena for prescription drug history Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC tees off during a TGL match Atlanta Drive GC at SoFi Center on March 4, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Tiger Woods’ attorney is challenging a request from prosecutors to subpoena the golfer’s prescription drug records. Woods, 50, has pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor DUI charges related to his rollover crash on March 31 in Florida. Prosecutors are attempting to subpoena the 15-time major winner’s records from a pharmacy in Palm Beach, Fla. They are seeking details about his prescriptions from Jan. 1 to March 27, including the number of times they were filled, the quantity of pills, the dosage amounts and any accompanying instructions with the medication, according to court records obtained by ESPN. Douglas Duncan, Woods’ attorney, filed a motion Wednesday requesting a hearing on the matter and questioning the relevance of the state’s request and whether it violates his client’s privacy rights. “This right is admittedly not absolute should the State show the relevance of the records to its criminal investigation and thus warrant intrusion into Mr. Woods’ privacy,” Duncan wrote in the motion. Officers at the scene of the accident said Woods appeared impaired and had two pills in his pocket. If the court grants the state’s request for the records, Duncan asked the judge to enter a protective order ensuring that Woods’ prescription history is made available only to prosecutors, defense attorneys and law enforcement. “The records shall not be disclosed to any third parties, including Order prohibiting dissemination of the records by the State in response to any public records request,” Duncan wrote. “If and when it becomes necessary for the State to publicly disclose said records or any portion of said records, that a hearing must be held to determine the necessity of said disclosure.” Woods released a statement after the accident saying that he was stepping away from golf to focus on his health. He reportedly entered a treatment facility in Switzerland. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Tiger #Woods #fighting #subpoena #prescription #drug #history

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