Frozen Four Breakdown: How Denver Took Home the Title | Deadspin.com Four teams hit the rink this past weekend at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, to see who would be crowned the 2026 NCAA D1 Frozen Four Champions. Two games were played on Thursday, with the championship game on Saturday. In the end, only one team would lift the trophy high and get their picture taken as their snapshot would be frozen in time forever.Badge of HonorThe first matchup on Thursday was between the North Dakota Fighting Hawks and the Wisconsin Badgers. Badger fans marked their territory in section 7, while the North Dakota faithful sat in section 16. In the first ten minutes of the game, both teams had shots on goal, and there were plenty of scuffles as the temperature rose. It was not until a tick under seven minutes that the first goal of the tournament occurred. Wisconsin’s Simon Tassey gave his team the lead against the Fighting Hawks. In the span of twenty seconds, Wisconsin had another shot on goal before Ryan Borrtelli received a pass from the crease to the middle, and his shot slid past the goaltender to put the Badgers up 2-0. As the first period ended, fans booed when two players got tangled up with the puck and the action ended. Wisconsin outshot North Dakota 18-4 in the first period and remained dominant until the third period.North Dakota had plenty of opportunities to get the puck in the net, but the players were not in sync for most of the game. It seemed like the Fighting Hawks forgot the fundamentals of hockey. Penalties were galore in the second period. The green and black almost scored near the tail end of their 5-4 advantage, but could not get the puck past the goaltender Daniel Hauser. They even had a 5-3 power play with six minutes left to go in the second period, but missed an opportunity with a minute to go. Just when it looked like the Badgers were going to get a shutout, forward Simon Tassy scored with 52 seconds to go in the game in one last gasp for a comeback. The Badgers could not score an empty-netter, but advanced to the national championship. Hauser recorded 21 saves, and the Badgers had 15 more shots on goal despite the Fighting Hawks winning five more faceoffs.The Wolverines can’t claw their Way to a Win.With the Badgers headed to the championship, it was time for fans in attendance to find out who their opponent was. The Denver Pioneers battled the Michigan Wolverines for 82 minutes on the ice. It took two overtimes for a winner to be crowned in the second game of the Frozen Four tournament. The Pioneers had the first shot of the game, but it was the Wolverines who were more aggressive throughout the first period. In the 13th minute, Michigan missed a golden opportunity as the puck slid wide right of the net past the goalie. Denver University found the net first, halfway through the first period, where Kyle Chyzowski scored his 12th of the season.Michigan responded with a goal of its own after winning a faceoff in its zone. TJ Hughes scored his 10th goal of the season to tie it up.Both teams lit up the scoreboard for a 3-3 hockey game that needed two OTs for a winner to be declared. With a little over seven minutes to go in 2OT, Kent Anderson found a way past the goalkeeper to advance the Pioneers to the championship game.Pioneering their Way to VictoryAfter battling Michigan in a double OT thriller, the Denver Pioneers looked to secure their 11th title in school history. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Badgers were seeking their 10th Frozen Four victory. Only one of these teams was going to get to hold the trophy up high, while the other left Vegas in despair.Wisconsin was hot right out of the gate, with the first shot off the right post followed by two more shots that bounced off the goalie. It took half of the period for Denver to get their first shot from the middle of the crease that bounced off the goalie’s pads. The Badgers ended the period with a flurry of shots, but none found the back of the net, despite having five times more shots than their opponent, ten. In the second twenty-minute block, both teams had their opportunities, but neither could capitalize.Denver tied up the game with a rebound shot by Rieger Lorenz off a slapshot. With the game tied at 1-1, fans wondered if they were going to see déjà vu. Instead, Hauser lost his stick on a save, leaving him with only his hands. That proved to be the deciding factor, as the Pioneers scored the game-winner. The Badgers fans headed for the exits, but the Pioneer fans celebrated with their team. Singing along to “Country Road” and “We are the Champions”, the team took turns hoisting the trophy and cutting the nets. The refs in this game let the players skate as only three penalties were called. The Pioneers’ goaltender, Johnny Hicks, had 26 saves and was named the most outstanding player of the tournament.Outside of the four teams that participated in the tournament, there were jerseys from the following states and countries: USA, Japan, Canada, Minnesota, Alaska, Maine, Missouri, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Dakota, and the host state of Nevada to name a few. It is recorded that over 53,000 fans attended or were a part of the Frozen Four in Las Vegas. Next year, the tournament will be held in Washington, D.C. for the second time and for the first time in almost 20 years.Denver University has won three of the past five tournaments, and only seven times since 1948 has a team hoisted the trophy back-to-back years. Denver has done it before, and Minnesota-Duluth is the last team to do so in 2018-2019. Who will be the last team standing in Washington, D.C.? It is an unpredictable tournament with a hardcore following, and it was an unbelievable experience to witness in person. #Frozen #Breakdown #Denver #Home #Title #Deadspin.com

Frozen Four Breakdown: How Denver Took Home the Title | Deadspin.com

Four teams hit the rink this past weekend at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, to see who would be crowned the 2026 NCAA D1 Frozen Four Champions.
Two games were played on Thursday, with the championship game on Saturday. In the end, only one team would lift the trophy high and get their picture taken as their snapshot would be frozen in time forever.
Badge of Honor
The first matchup on Thursday was between the North Dakota Fighting Hawks and the Wisconsin Badgers. Badger fans marked their territory in section 7, while the North Dakota faithful sat in section 16. In the first ten minutes of the game, both teams had shots on goal, and there were plenty of scuffles as the temperature rose. It was not until a tick under seven minutes that the first goal of the tournament occurred.
Wisconsin’s Simon Tassey gave his team the lead against the Fighting Hawks. In the span of twenty seconds, Wisconsin had another shot on goal before Ryan Borrtelli received a pass from the crease to the middle, and his shot slid past the goaltender to put the Badgers up 2-0. As the first period ended, fans booed when two players got tangled up with the puck and the action ended. Wisconsin outshot North Dakota 18-4 in the first period and remained dominant until the third period.
North Dakota had plenty of opportunities to get the puck in the net, but the players were not in sync for most of the game. It seemed like the Fighting Hawks forgot the fundamentals of hockey. Penalties were galore in the second period. The green and black almost scored near the tail end of their 5-4 advantage, but could not get the puck past the goaltender Daniel Hauser.
They even had a 5-3 power play with six minutes left to go in the second period, but missed an opportunity with a minute to go. Just when it looked like the Badgers were going to get a shutout, forward Simon Tassy scored with 52 seconds to go in the game in one last gasp for a comeback. The Badgers could not score an empty-netter, but advanced to the national championship. Hauser recorded 21 saves, and the Badgers had 15 more shots on goal despite the Fighting Hawks winning five more faceoffs.
The Wolverines can’t claw their Way to a Win.
With the Badgers headed to the championship, it was time for fans in attendance to find out who their opponent was. The Denver Pioneers battled the Michigan Wolverines for 82 minutes on the ice. It took two overtimes for a winner to be crowned in the second game of the Frozen Four tournament.
The Pioneers had the first shot of the game, but it was the Wolverines who were more aggressive throughout the first period. In the 13th minute, Michigan missed a golden opportunity as the puck slid wide right of the net past the goalie. Denver University found the net first, halfway through the first period, where Kyle Chyzowski scored his 12th of the season.
Michigan responded with a goal of its own after winning a faceoff in its zone. TJ Hughes scored his 10th goal of the season to tie it up.
Both teams lit up the scoreboard for a 3-3 hockey game that needed two OTs for a winner to be declared. With a little over seven minutes to go in 2OT, Kent Anderson found a way past the goalkeeper to advance the Pioneers to the championship game.
Pioneering their Way to Victory
After battling Michigan in a double OT thriller, the Denver Pioneers looked to secure their 11th title in school history. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Badgers were seeking their 10th Frozen Four victory. Only one of these teams was going to get to hold the trophy up high, while the other left Vegas in despair.
Wisconsin was hot right out of the gate, with the first shot off the right post followed by two more shots that bounced off the goalie. It took half of the period for Denver to get their first shot from the middle of the crease that bounced off the goalie’s pads. The Badgers ended the period with a flurry of shots, but none found the back of the net, despite having five times more shots than their opponent, ten. In the second twenty-minute block, both teams had their opportunities, but neither could capitalize.
Denver tied up the game with a rebound shot by Rieger Lorenz off a slapshot. With the game tied at 1-1, fans wondered if they were going to see déjà vu. Instead, Hauser lost his stick on a save, leaving him with only his hands. That proved to be the deciding factor, as the Pioneers scored the game-winner.
The Badgers fans headed for the exits, but the Pioneer fans celebrated with their team. Singing along to “Country Road” and “We are the Champions”, the team took turns hoisting the trophy and cutting the nets. The refs in this game let the players skate as only three penalties were called. The Pioneers’ goaltender, Johnny Hicks, had 26 saves and was named the most outstanding player of the tournament.
Outside of the four teams that participated in the tournament, there were jerseys from the following states and countries: USA, Japan, Canada, Minnesota, Alaska, Maine, Missouri, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Dakota, and the host state of Nevada to name a few. It is recorded that over 53,000 fans attended or were a part of the Frozen Four in Las Vegas. Next year, the tournament will be held in Washington, D.C. for the second time and for the first time in almost 20 years.
Denver University has won three of the past five tournaments, and only seven times since 1948 has a team hoisted the trophy back-to-back years. Denver has done it before, and Minnesota-Duluth is the last team to do so in 2018-2019. Who will be the last team standing in Washington, D.C.? It is an unpredictable tournament with a hardcore following, and it was an unbelievable experience to witness in person.

#Frozen #Breakdown #Denver #Home #Title #Deadspin.com

Sports news April 13, 2026

Four teams hit the rink this past weekend at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, to see who would be crowned the 2026 NCAA D1 Frozen Four Champions.

Two games were played on Thursday, with the championship game on Saturday. In the end, only one team would lift the trophy high and get their picture taken as their snapshot would be frozen in time forever.

Badge of Honor
The first matchup on Thursday was between the North Dakota Fighting Hawks and the Wisconsin Badgers. Badger fans marked their territory in section 7, while the North Dakota faithful sat in section 16. In the first ten minutes of the game, both teams had shots on goal, and there were plenty of scuffles as the temperature rose. It was not until a tick under seven minutes that the first goal of the tournament occurred.

Wisconsin’s Simon Tassey gave his team the lead against the Fighting Hawks. In the span of twenty seconds, Wisconsin had another shot on goal before Ryan Borrtelli received a pass from the crease to the middle, and his shot slid past the goaltender to put the Badgers up 2-0. As the first period ended, fans booed when two players got tangled up with the puck and the action ended. Wisconsin outshot North Dakota 18-4 in the first period and remained dominant until the third period.

North Dakota had plenty of opportunities to get the puck in the net, but the players were not in sync for most of the game. It seemed like the Fighting Hawks forgot the fundamentals of hockey. Penalties were galore in the second period. The green and black almost scored near the tail end of their 5-4 advantage, but could not get the puck past the goaltender Daniel Hauser.

They even had a 5-3 power play with six minutes left to go in the second period, but missed an opportunity with a minute to go. Just when it looked like the Badgers were going to get a shutout, forward Simon Tassy scored with 52 seconds to go in the game in one last gasp for a comeback. The Badgers could not score an empty-netter, but advanced to the national championship. Hauser recorded 21 saves, and the Badgers had 15 more shots on goal despite the Fighting Hawks winning five more faceoffs.

The Wolverines can’t claw their Way to a Win.
With the Badgers headed to the championship, it was time for fans in attendance to find out who their opponent was. The Denver Pioneers battled the Michigan Wolverines for 82 minutes on the ice. It took two overtimes for a winner to be crowned in the second game of the Frozen Four tournament.

The Pioneers had the first shot of the game, but it was the Wolverines who were more aggressive throughout the first period. In the 13th minute, Michigan missed a golden opportunity as the puck slid wide right of the net past the goalie. Denver University found the net first, halfway through the first period, where Kyle Chyzowski scored his 12th of the season.
Michigan responded with a goal of its own after winning a faceoff in its zone. TJ Hughes scored his 10th goal of the season to tie it up.
Both teams lit up the scoreboard for a 3-3 hockey game that needed two OTs for a winner to be declared. With a little over seven minutes to go in 2OT, Kent Anderson found a way past the goalkeeper to advance the Pioneers to the championship game.

Pioneering their Way to Victory
After battling Michigan in a double OT thriller, the Denver Pioneers looked to secure their 11th title in school history. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Badgers were seeking their 10th Frozen Four victory. Only one of these teams was going to get to hold the trophy up high, while the other left Vegas in despair.
Wisconsin was hot right out of the gate, with the first shot off the right post followed by two more shots that bounced off the goalie. It took half of the period for Denver to get their first shot from the middle of the crease that bounced off the goalie’s pads. The Badgers ended the period with a flurry of shots, but none found the back of the net, despite having five times more shots than their opponent, ten. In the second twenty-minute block, both teams had their opportunities, but neither could capitalize.

Denver tied up the game with a rebound shot by Rieger Lorenz off a slapshot. With the game tied at 1-1, fans wondered if they were going to see déjà vu. Instead, Hauser lost his stick on a save, leaving him with only his hands. That proved to be the deciding factor, as the Pioneers scored the game-winner.

The Badgers fans headed for the exits, but the Pioneer fans celebrated with their team. Singing along to “Country Road” and “We are the Champions”, the team took turns hoisting the trophy and cutting the nets. The refs in this game let the players skate as only three penalties were called. The Pioneers’ goaltender, Johnny Hicks, had 26 saves and was named the most outstanding player of the tournament.

Outside of the four teams that participated in the tournament, there were jerseys from the following states and countries: USA, Japan, Canada, Minnesota, Alaska, Maine, Missouri, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Dakota, and the host state of Nevada to name a few. It is recorded that over 53,000 fans attended or were a part of the Frozen Four in Las Vegas. Next year, the tournament will be held in Washington, D.C. for the second time and for the first time in almost 20 years.
Denver University has won three of the past five tournaments, and only seven times since 1948 has a team hoisted the trophy back-to-back years. Denver has done it before, and Minnesota-Duluth is the last team to do so in 2018-2019. Who will be the last team standing in Washington, D.C.? It is an unpredictable tournament with a hardcore following, and it was an unbelievable experience to witness in person.

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#Frozen #Breakdown #Denver #Home #Title #Deadspin.com

Commanders snag one of the draft’s best defenders at No. 7 in the SB Nation community mock draft <div id="cyclone-embed-body-e98dd0ab-435b-4aee-a4da-dd28a114833a"><p>Even with Reese, Bailey, Love, and Styles off the board, the Commanders still had several great options. Carnell Tate was considered to pair with Terry McLaurin, and give Jayden Daniels another weapon. Caleb Downs is the pick, and gives Washington the best safety they’ve had on the roster in a long time. Downs is an intelligent and versatile defender who can take over the green dot from Bobby Wagner. Downs immediately improves a secondary that has has had communication and talent issues.</p></div> #Commanders #snag #drafts #defenders #Nation #community #mock #draft

Medvedev fined $7,000 for smashing his racket 7 times at the Monte Carlo Masters <div id="content-body-70858970" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Former No. 1 Daniil Medvedev was fined 6,000 euros ($7,000) for unsportsmanlike conduct after he smashed his seven racquet times during a 6-0, 6-0 loss to Matteo Berrettini at the Monte Carlo Masters last week, the ATP Tour confirmed to The Associated Press on Monday.</p><p>Medvedev, who is currently ranked 10th, received a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct by the chair umpire for his actions early in the second set of Wednesday’s match.</p><p>The fine is small in comparison to the $76,000 and $42,500 that Medvedev was penalised with for outbursts at the Australian Open and U.S. Open last year, respectively.</p><p>Medvedev, who had a first-round bye, had earned 45,520 euros ($50,000) in prize money from the Monte Carlo tournament.</p><p>The 30-year-old Russian was already struggling when he landed a forehand in the net to drop his opening service game of the second set and fall behind 2-0 and he slammed his racquet near the baseline. Then he picked the racquet up and threw it toward a tarp at the end of the court.</p><p>Still not through, Medvedev then continually picked his frame up and kept smashing it until it was destroyed enough to fit through an opening in a courtside trash can as the crowd sarcastically cheered him on.</p><p>Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open in 2021, lost the match in 49 minutes.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 13, 2026</p></div> #Medvedev #fined #smashing #racket #times #Monte #Carlo #Masters

#Deadspin #Reports #UNC #lands #Virginia #Tech #transfer #Neoklis #Avdalas">

mwasimuddin125 0

Feb 21, 2026; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Neoklis Avdalas (17) celebrates with fans after the game at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

North Carolina head coach Michael Malone landed his first portal pickup, with Virginia Tech transfer Neoklis Avdalas joining the Tar Heels, according to reports by On3 and ESPN on Monday.

Avdalas, a 6-foot-9 guard who hails from Greece, played professionally in his home country and tested the NBA draft waters last offseason before landing at Virginia Tech. He made an immediate impact as a freshman, averaging 12.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and a team-high 4.6 assists in 31 games (all starts).

Avdalas shot 38.6% from the floor, including 35.7% in Atlantic Coast Conference play.

North Carolina also found out Monday that starting forward Jarin Stevenson will return for fourth season and his second with the Tar Heels. Stevenson announced the news on his social media account after he averaged 8.1 points and 4.4 rebounds in 33 games (25 starts) this past season for North Carolina.

Malone, a surprise coaching hire in Chapel Hill last week, was working as an ESPN analyst after leading the Denver Nuggets to an NBA championship in 2023.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Reports #UNC #lands #Virginia #Tech #transfer #Neoklis #Avdalas">Deadspin | Reports: UNC lands Virginia Tech transfer Neoklis Avdalas

Feb 21, 2026; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Neoklis Avdalas (17) celebrates with fans after the game at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

North Carolina head coach Michael Malone landed his first portal pickup, with Virginia Tech transfer Neoklis Avdalas joining the Tar Heels, according to reports by On3 and ESPN on Monday.

Avdalas, a 6-foot-9 guard who hails from Greece, played professionally in his home country and tested the NBA draft waters last offseason before landing at Virginia Tech. He made an immediate impact as a freshman, averaging 12.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and a team-high 4.6 assists in 31 games (all starts).

Avdalas shot 38.6% from the floor, including 35.7% in Atlantic Coast Conference play.

North Carolina also found out Monday that starting forward Jarin Stevenson will return for fourth season and his second with the Tar Heels. Stevenson announced the news on his social media account after he averaged 8.1 points and 4.4 rebounds in 33 games (25 starts) this past season for North Carolina.

Malone, a surprise coaching hire in Chapel Hill last week, was working as an ESPN analyst after leading the Denver Nuggets to an NBA championship in 2023.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Reports #UNC #lands #Virginia #Tech #transfer #Neoklis #Avdalas

Praful Hinge became the first bowler to take three wickets in the first over of an IPL match for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Hinge, making his IPL debut, dismissed Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the first over of RR’s chase.

Hinge had initially been named to make his debut in SRH’s match against Punjab Kings, but did not feature after being named in the Impact Player list.

After conceding a single from his first delivery, Hinge struck his first blow, dismissing Vaibhav Suryavanshi first ball caught and bowled. He struck two balls later, drawing a chop-on from Dhruv Jurel.

His third dismissal was fellow debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who flicked the ball to Nitish Kumar Reddy at deep backward-square.

Prior to today’s match, Hinge had played just one T20 for his state side, Vidarbha.

Published on Apr 13, 2026

#SRH #IPL #Praful #Hinge #bowler #wickets #IPL #match">

SRH vs RR, IPL 2026: Praful Hinge becomes first bowler to take three wickets in the first over an IPL match Praful Hinge became the first bowler to take three wickets in the first over of an IPL match for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.Hinge, making his IPL debut, dismissed Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the first over of RR’s chase.Hinge had initially been named to make his debut in SRH’s match against Punjab Kings, but did not feature after being named in the Impact Player list.After conceding a single from his first delivery, Hinge struck his first blow, dismissing Vaibhav Suryavanshi first ball caught and bowled. He struck two balls later, drawing a chop-on from Dhruv Jurel.His third dismissal was fellow debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who flicked the ball to Nitish Kumar Reddy at deep backward-square.Prior to today’s match, Hinge had played just one T20 for his state side, Vidarbha.Published on Apr 13, 2026 #SRH #IPL #Praful #Hinge #bowler #wickets #IPL #match

mwasimuddin125 0

Praful Hinge became the first bowler to take three wickets in the first over of an IPL match for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
Hinge, making his IPL debut, dismissed Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the first over of RR’s chase.
Hinge had initially been named to make his debut in SRH’s match against Punjab Kings, but did not feature after being named in the Impact Player list.
After conceding a single from his first delivery, Hinge struck his first blow, dismissing Vaibhav Suryavanshi first ball caught and bowled. He struck two balls later, drawing a chop-on from Dhruv Jurel.
His third dismissal was fellow debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who flicked the ball to Nitish Kumar Reddy at deep backward-square.
Prior to today’s match, Hinge had played just one T20 for his state side, Vidarbha.
Published on Apr 13, 2026

#SRH #IPL #Praful #Hinge #bowler #wickets #IPL #match">SRH vs RR, IPL 2026: Praful Hinge becomes first bowler to take three wickets in the first over an IPL match

Praful Hinge became the first bowler to take three wickets in the first over of an IPL match for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Hinge, making his IPL debut, dismissed Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius in the first over of RR’s chase.

Hinge had initially been named to make his debut in SRH’s match against Punjab Kings, but did not feature after being named in the Impact Player list.

His third dismissal was fellow debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who flicked the ball to Nitish Kumar Reddy at deep backward-square.

Prior to today’s match, Hinge had played just one T20 for his state side, Vidarbha.

Published on Apr 13, 2026

#SRH #IPL #Praful #Hinge #bowler #wickets #IPL #match

Free Coby White.

While a February trade from Chicago to Charlotte allowed the North Carolina native to forge a fresh start with his non-toxic, home-state team, White still is aiming to escape the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.

Not to mention the Miami Heat, Chicago’s play-in foil for the past three seasons.

On Tuesday, White’s Hornets will host the Heat in the play-in opener, and White has a pulse on how to prevail.

“We’ve just got to use our pace,” he said. “It’ll be a tough game if we make it a half-court game. It plays into their favor because of all the weapons they have offensively, the length that they play with defensively, the physicality they play with. So, I think we’ve got to use our pace.”

Miami took the season series from Charlotte 3-1, with both meetings in South Beach coming before Nov. 7 amid the Hornets’ 4-14 start.

Charlotte entered a March 6 visit from the Heat at 32-31 and stuck around before losing 127-120. The Hornets put everything together 11 days later, coasting to a 136-106 victory as the Heat were without Bam Adebayo (right calf tightness) and fellow frontcourt starter Andrew Wiggins (toe).

Both teams navigated injuries down the stretch of the regular season but enter Tuesday in relatively good health. As with Charlotte against New York, Miami capitalized on facing a foe already in the East playoff field during Sunday’s regular-season finale. The Heat handled the Atlanta Hawks by 26 as 13 players saw the court.

“They’re a team that’s going to be obviously well-prepared,” White said. “They got a hell of a coach in Erik Spoelstra. So for us, we got to be honed into the details.”

Some cynics might say that Spoelstra’s star is tumbling as the Heat have been relegated to the play-in the past three seasons. Whatever the case, he boasts two NBA championships and four other Finals appearances since taking the reins in 2008-09.

Of course, that includes the 2022-23 Heat, who regrouped from a loss in the 7-8 game to defeat White and the Bulls and earn an official spot in the playoff draw. Eighth-seeded Miami upset Milwaukee, New York and Boston before bowing out to Denver in a five-game Finals.

For better or worse, Spoelstra knows the urgency of the play-in nearly as much as he does the Finals. In his experience, tackling the former doesn’t have to be formidable.

“You have to absolutely embrace it,” Spoelstra said. “It makes you feel alive, that’s for sure, if you’re a competitor.

“You don’t want the season to go the way it can to put you in the play-in, but once you’re in it, it’s exhilarating. You have to embrace the competition, embrace how every single possession really does matter.”

The Hornets need a victory on Tuesday and against the loser of Wednesday’s Orlando-Philadelphia game to advance to the East draw for the first time since 2016.

The Heat know the drill — both in the play-in and against the division rival Hornets. Charlotte features LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and White among a horde of regulars who are comfortable with moving the ball and creating opportunities from long range.

“They play a lot faster at home, so obviously you’ve got to be aware of the shooters,” Adebayo said. “They run their offense with such a pace and sometimes it seems chaotic. You’ve got to be able to maintain through when they make runs or if it’s one of those big momentum swings, you’ve got to understand how we can settle and get back in the play.”

As Spoelstra can attest, anything can happen from there.

#Coby #White #Eyes #Breakthrough #Hornets #Face #Heat #Deadspin.com">

Coby White Eyes Breakthrough as Hornets Face Heat | Deadspin.com Free Coby White.While a February trade from Chicago to Charlotte allowed the North Carolina native to forge a fresh start with his non-toxic, home-state team, White still is aiming to escape the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.Not to mention the Miami Heat, Chicago’s play-in foil for the past three seasons.On Tuesday, White’s Hornets will host the Heat in the play-in opener, and White has a pulse on how to prevail.“We’ve just got to use our pace,” he said. “It’ll be a tough game if we make it a half-court game. It plays into their favor because of all the weapons they have offensively, the length that they play with defensively, the physicality they play with. So, I think we’ve got to use our pace.”Miami took the season series from Charlotte 3-1, with both meetings in South Beach coming before Nov. 7 amid the Hornets’ 4-14 start.Charlotte entered a March 6 visit from the Heat at 32-31 and stuck around before losing 127-120. The Hornets put everything together 11 days later, coasting to a 136-106 victory as the Heat were without Bam Adebayo (right calf tightness) and fellow frontcourt starter Andrew Wiggins (toe).Both teams navigated injuries down the stretch of the regular season but enter Tuesday in relatively good health. As with Charlotte against New York, Miami capitalized on facing a foe already in the East playoff field during Sunday’s regular-season finale. The Heat handled the Atlanta Hawks by 26 as 13 players saw the court.“They’re a team that’s going to be obviously well-prepared,” White said. “They got a hell of a coach in Erik Spoelstra. So for us, we got to be honed into the details.”Some cynics might say that Spoelstra’s star is tumbling as the Heat have been relegated to the play-in the past three seasons. Whatever the case, he boasts two NBA championships and four other Finals appearances since taking the reins in 2008-09.Of course, that includes the 2022-23 Heat, who regrouped from a loss in the 7-8 game to defeat White and the Bulls and earn an official spot in the playoff draw. Eighth-seeded Miami upset Milwaukee, New York and Boston before bowing out to Denver in a five-game Finals.For better or worse, Spoelstra knows the urgency of the play-in nearly as much as he does the Finals. In his experience, tackling the former doesn’t have to be formidable.“You have to absolutely embrace it,” Spoelstra said. “It makes you feel alive, that’s for sure, if you’re a competitor.“You don’t want the season to go the way it can to put you in the play-in, but once you’re in it, it’s exhilarating. You have to embrace the competition, embrace how every single possession really does matter.”The Hornets need a victory on Tuesday and against the loser of Wednesday’s Orlando-Philadelphia game to advance to the East draw for the first time since 2016.The Heat know the drill — both in the play-in and against the division rival Hornets. Charlotte features LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and White among a horde of regulars who are comfortable with moving the ball and creating opportunities from long range.“They play a lot faster at home, so obviously you’ve got to be aware of the shooters,” Adebayo said. “They run their offense with such a pace and sometimes it seems chaotic. You’ve got to be able to maintain through when they make runs or if it’s one of those big momentum swings, you’ve got to understand how we can settle and get back in the play.”As Spoelstra can attest, anything can happen from there. #Coby #White #Eyes #Breakthrough #Hornets #Face #Heat #Deadspin.com

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Free Coby White.
While a February trade from Chicago to Charlotte allowed the North Carolina native to forge a fresh start with his non-toxic, home-state team, White still is aiming to escape the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.
Not to mention the Miami Heat, Chicago’s play-in foil for the past three seasons.
On Tuesday, White’s Hornets will host the Heat in the play-in opener, and White has a pulse on how to prevail.
“We’ve just got to use our pace,” he said. “It’ll be a tough game if we make it a half-court game. It plays into their favor because of all the weapons they have offensively, the length that they play with defensively, the physicality they play with. So, I think we’ve got to use our pace.”
Miami took the season series from Charlotte 3-1, with both meetings in South Beach coming before Nov. 7 amid the Hornets’ 4-14 start.
Charlotte entered a March 6 visit from the Heat at 32-31 and stuck around before losing 127-120. The Hornets put everything together 11 days later, coasting to a 136-106 victory as the Heat were without Bam Adebayo (right calf tightness) and fellow frontcourt starter Andrew Wiggins (toe).
Both teams navigated injuries down the stretch of the regular season but enter Tuesday in relatively good health. As with Charlotte against New York, Miami capitalized on facing a foe already in the East playoff field during Sunday’s regular-season finale. The Heat handled the Atlanta Hawks by 26 as 13 players saw the court.
“They’re a team that’s going to be obviously well-prepared,” White said. “They got a hell of a coach in Erik Spoelstra. So for us, we got to be honed into the details.”
Some cynics might say that Spoelstra’s star is tumbling as the Heat have been relegated to the play-in the past three seasons. Whatever the case, he boasts two NBA championships and four other Finals appearances since taking the reins in 2008-09.
Of course, that includes the 2022-23 Heat, who regrouped from a loss in the 7-8 game to defeat White and the Bulls and earn an official spot in the playoff draw. Eighth-seeded Miami upset Milwaukee, New York and Boston before bowing out to Denver in a five-game Finals.
For better or worse, Spoelstra knows the urgency of the play-in nearly as much as he does the Finals. In his experience, tackling the former doesn’t have to be formidable.
“You have to absolutely embrace it,” Spoelstra said. “It makes you feel alive, that’s for sure, if you’re a competitor.
“You don’t want the season to go the way it can to put you in the play-in, but once you’re in it, it’s exhilarating. You have to embrace the competition, embrace how every single possession really does matter.”
The Hornets need a victory on Tuesday and against the loser of Wednesday’s Orlando-Philadelphia game to advance to the East draw for the first time since 2016.
The Heat know the drill — both in the play-in and against the division rival Hornets. Charlotte features LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel and White among a horde of regulars who are comfortable with moving the ball and creating opportunities from long range.
“They play a lot faster at home, so obviously you’ve got to be aware of the shooters,” Adebayo said. “They run their offense with such a pace and sometimes it seems chaotic. You’ve got to be able to maintain through when they make runs or if it’s one of those big momentum swings, you’ve got to understand how we can settle and get back in the play.”
As Spoelstra can attest, anything can happen from there.

#Coby #White #Eyes #Breakthrough #Hornets #Face #Heat #Deadspin.com">Coby White Eyes Breakthrough as Hornets Face Heat | Deadspin.com

Free Coby White.

Not to mention the Miami Heat, Chicago’s play-in foil for the past three seasons.

On Tuesday, White’s Hornets will host the Heat in the play-in opener, and White has a pulse on how to prevail.

Miami took the season series from Charlotte 3-1, with both meetings in South Beach coming before Nov. 7 amid the Hornets’ 4-14 start.

“They’re a team that’s going to be obviously well-prepared,” White said. “They got a hell of a coach in Erik Spoelstra. So for us, we got to be honed into the details.”

For better or worse, Spoelstra knows the urgency of the play-in nearly as much as he does the Finals. In his experience, tackling the former doesn’t have to be formidable.

“You have to absolutely embrace it,” Spoelstra said. “It makes you feel alive, that’s for sure, if you’re a competitor.

The Hornets need a victory on Tuesday and against the loser of Wednesday’s Orlando-Philadelphia game to advance to the East draw for the first time since 2016.

As Spoelstra can attest, anything can happen from there.

#Coby #White #Eyes #Breakthrough #Hornets #Face #Heat #Deadspin.com

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