標籤: positive

west ham united Star Crescencio Somerville’s inclusion in the Netherlands squad has been warmly welcomed by his former coach Alphonse Groenendijk.

Voetbal Primeur covered his comments today This was said in an interview with De Telegraaf after Somerville was included in the Netherlands squad by Ronald Koeman.

west ham star

The Dutch winger is in the squad for the World Cup this summer after an impressive campaign which saw the 24-year-old score five goals and four assists in 31 Premier League games this season.

He was undoubtedly the Hammers’ best player this season and was ultimately blameless for their relegation to the Championship.

Indeed, his performances towards the end of the year, when he scored in four consecutive games, gave West Ham hope in the fight against relegation.

It has been a real season of development for the 24-year-old, although Groenendijk are all aware of his talent.

He said, “As a coach, I had the privilege of giving him the chance to make his debut in the Eredivisie. You always follow people you have worked with or made your debut with with extra interest.”

“He already had something special in ADO. That kid has a crazy instinct in his game. He has courage and believes in his abilities. It’s fun to watch him.”

“Unexpected and dangerous”

The winger has managed to return to form at West Ham after a difficult first year since arriving from Leeds United. He had previously established himself as an outstanding performer for the Whites in the Championship.

And Groenendijk believes he now has the talent to make him a special player.

“And he’s kept those special qualities on the ball. He’s really got weapons. Scoring ability, he can go outside and inside.”

“He’s so incredibly fast. And with the ball at his feet, he’s almost faster than without the ball. Plus, he has a dribbling move that’s almost unstoppable. You rarely see that in football anymore.”

And he believes there is one particular talent that makes the West Ham winger unpredictable and dangerous, his versatility.

He concluded, “Crisencio can play in both positions, but I find him most dangerous when he comes in from the left.”

“At West Ham, he had the freedom to change sides during the match. It makes him even more unpredictable and dangerous.”

A follow-up report brings even more positive news for New York Knicks fans when it comes to OG Anunoby’s hamstring injury.

On Wednesday night, the Knicks earned a hard-fought win over the Philadelphia 76ers to extend their lead to 2-0 in the semifinal series. In the win, New York got another great game from the guy who has quietly been their MVP these playoffs, OG Anunoby.

The nine-year veteran posted 24 points, five rebounds, four steals and had a +12 when he was on the court. Heading into the 2026 playoffs, Anunoby leads the team in steals (1.5), is second in points (21.4) and blocks (1.1), and is third in rebounds (7.5). However, fans got a big scare in the final minutes of Game 3 when he limped in, went to the locker room and never returned.

It took a long time for Knicks fans to get an update on his condition. However, on Thursday afternoon, ESPN’s Shams Charania revealed that he has a right hamstring strain and is listed as day-to-day. This is a huge relief for New York fans, but hamstring injuries are tricky, and Anunoby has dealt with them in the past. It may still take a week or more for him to return to action.

‘Optimism’ OG Anunoby will play in Game 3 or 4 of Knicks vs. 76ers

However, it looks like the Knicks may have actually gotten pretty lucky with one of their most important players. In a follow-up report from SNY Knicks insider Ian Begley, he claimed there is “optimism” in the locker room that Anunoby will not need a week of recovery and could play in Game 3 on Friday or Game 4 on Sunday.

This is fantastic news for a team coming off one of the most spectacular performances by any Knicks team in the playoffs in decades. Anunoby has played a major role in his dominant play.

With the Knicks holding a 2-0 series lead, they may be wary of the valuable forward and rest him for Game 3. If they somehow manage to win on the road, letting him sit Game 4 again would be a smart move. We’ll see how it all plays out tomorrow night in Philadelphia.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Ahead of the 2025 NFL season, Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst felt strongly that his team was ready to compete for the Super Bowl. Thus, he made the biggest trade of his career by sending two first-round picks to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons.

Gutekunst’s gamble proved correct. The Packers had one of the best teams in the NFL, but one thing he could not have predicted was that the team would lose two of its best players to injuries at the end of the season.

Parsons and the team’s leading pass-catcher, tight end Tucker Craft, both suffered torn ACLs last season. Kraft’s injury occurred in Week 9. Parsons’ injury occurred in Week 15. Still, despite the six-week difference from the time of their injuries, Parsons may not need to miss as much time as Kraft, as he is “a little bit of a freak” as Gutekunst described.

“They’re doing great,” Gutekunst said on SiriusXM Radio. “Tuck comes here every day, and he’s obviously a little ahead of schedule, just because his injury happened earlier than Micah’s. But Micah is like – he’s a little crazy. So I think some of that has taken over, and he’s doing really well, too.” He added, “So, obviously both of those guys are expected to be back at the start of the season. And they’ll be a big part of what we’re doing going forward.”

The Packers lost in Week 15, in the game where Parsons suffered an injury, and lost all of their next four games. A 9–3–1 record suddenly ended at 9–8–1 after a playoff loss to the Chicago Bears.

Meanwhile, Kraft tied with running back Christian Watson for the Packers’ rushing average of 61 yards per game. Parsons led the team with 12.5 sacks. Getting two of the team’s most impactful players back early in the season could greatly help the Packers’ success in 2026.

RELATED: 4 Green Bay Packers players who could be on the roster bubble in 2026

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

Crystal Palace’s Florence’s trip may have started with riot police and extra security at the monuments, but it ended with their players dancing in the streets with their fans.

Firenze Viola and Fiorentina News report on the Crystal Palace squad in Florence today. The party atmosphere throughout the night allayed any fear of trouble.

florence viola Kick things off, reporting that there was ‘celebration’ in the Crystal Palace camp as they reached the semi-finals.

That success, his first, caused celebration in both London and Florence. The latter includes the Crystal Palace players who were given the night off by Oliver Glassner.

As a result, as shown in various videos on social media, Dean Henderson, Jeremy Pino and other Eagles players ‘took to the streets’ in central Florence to celebrate. The trio also joined in with fans they met on the way.

In the video below, he can be seen singing in Piazza Strozzi.

fiorentina newsMeanwhile, Crystal Palace players are reported to have ‘immediately gathered’ in the center of Florence to join in the celebrations.

According to the outlet, the streets of the Tuscan capital were filled with “dancing, chanting and revelry” late into the night. At present, there is no report of any clash or any kind of incident between the fans.

Crystal Palace fans have not only behaved but made a very positive impression on their Italian hosts.

Italian overreaction unnecessary

Sport Witness reported yesterday Florence essentially went into lockdown ahead of the arrival of the Crystal Palace travel group.

To ensure there was no trouble, police were put in riot gear, monuments were closed and the sale of liquor was limited. By mid-afternoon yesterday, it all seemed like a huge overreaction.

Instead of any trouble, Police was saying ‘no foul play’ While Crystal Palace fans roamed the streets in shirts, scarves and other items. There was no sign of any kind of problem.

It appears that this continued through the night. Their progress to the European semi-finals has led to street parties rather than fights and more mocking of the lengths to which Florence has reached this week.

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson provided an update on Jarrett Allen’s status on Tuesday, indicating significant progress ahead of the Wine and Gold’s meeting with the Orlando Magic for a three-game homestand.

“They’ve ramped it up over the last few days, so there’s a positive trend,” Atkinson said. “I saw him on the court yesterday, contact. I think we’re in the last stages of preparing him, so I can guess [he’ll return within] The next few games, that window.”

Allen returning to the fold would be a welcome sight for the Cavs, who have missed James Harden with his rim protection and pick-and-roll skills. He missed the last game and will not be in action against the Magic due to right knee tendinitis. Cleveland’s veteran big man suffered the injury early in the second half of the Detroit Pistons game on March 3 and has not played since.

If Atkinson’s optimism proves justified, we’ll see Allen this week.

Cavs receive another important injury update

Elsewhere on the injury front, Atkinson shared the latest news on Jaylon Tyson, who hasn’t played since the fourth quarter of the Cavs’ win over the Chicago Bulls last Thursday. The second-year swingman suffered a sprained left toe and what is now being treated as a bone bruise.

“Not long-term,” Atkinson said of the label change. “He practiced yesterday, and it was bothering him, quite honestly, so we took him out of practice. It’s an injury; definitely not long-term. I can see it being very short-term. It’s going to be a pain to bear. I hope he recovers very quickly.”

Tyson has been a big part of the Cavs’ rotation recently despite his minutes being cut back, so this is solid news regarding his troublesome toe. However, it doesn’t help their case in the current battle for more minutes, as Cleveland tries to figure out who will play the most minutes and who will be in the starting five.

Italy and Newcastle United can breathe easy. After a tense 24 hours, Sandro Tonali has been cleared to take part in the upcoming World Cup playoff campaign. This is a huge relief for Gennaro Gattuso and especially the Italian staff.

Tonali was sent off during Newcastle’s Champions League clash with Barcelona on Wednesday evening, sparking immediate concern in the national team camp.

The Italian midfielder started the game alongside Jacob Ramsey and Joelinton but was removed after 55 minutes due to an awkward fall on the touchline. Reports then said that due to the problem he would undergo an MRI scan today.

Tests bring good news

According to Gianluca Di MarzioThursday’s medical tests gave the results Italy had hoped for. He suffered only minor swelling; There is no structural damage.

That means there is no risk of him missing the World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland. The Newcastle midfielder should also be fully fit for a potential playoff final.

Di Marzio reports that the midfielder’s condition is ‘nothing serious’, eliminating any fears of a last-minute midfield crisis.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe had initially labeled Tonali “doubtful” for Sunday’s derby against Sunderland. The plan is to assess him day by day, with Italy hoping to rest him before international duty.

Gravina: ‘There is reason for optimism’

Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina also commented on Tonali’s injury after speaking to the midfielder.

“I talked to him on the phone with the coach and our doctor.” He said.

“He is more relaxed than when he left the pitch. There is some concern, but it is moderate. Today’s tests have provided reassurance. He needs to recover, and we will do so with all the means at our disposal. There is reason for optimism.”

That optimism has now been confirmed. Today the medical examination has revealed no significant damage, due to which he will be available for the international break.

Washington D.C. – While his season is over, and his return to the basketball court is still a long way off, Jimmy Butler remains in good spirits as he begins the road to recovery. The Golden State Warriors star spoke to the media for the first time since suffering a season-ending ACL injury in his right knee in late January.

“It feels like I had ACL surgery five weeks ago,” Butler said while sitting at his locker. “Overall, I’m good. Happy.”

Butler’s words matched the condition of his knee.

With his legs spread, you can see the long scar on his swollen, surgically repaired right knee, which he recently had surgery on on February 9 – a visual indication that Butler is in the early stages of a long recovery process rehabilitating a torn ACL. And those first steps of rehabilitation have not been easy.

“[It’s been] “It’s hard not being with my guys. It’s hard not being able to play the game I love,” Butler said of his last five weeks. And are not able to travel. It is difficult, but rehabilitation is going on. “We’re doing what we need to do to get back on the timeline.”

But like Butler, the always positive and introspective man he was, he maintained perspective on his situation.

“It’s not all bad, I still tell people I’m an NBA player. So I’m happy with that,” Butler said before pointing to two-way players Nate Williams and Malevi Lyons, two lockers.

“There are still some amazing guys taking advantage of their opportunity, some guys are down. That was a time in my Chicago days. So I get very happy, and smile when I see guys playing well. And then, you know, I got my family, the kids were around. And then I knew I was working my way back toward something. So it all puts you in perspective.”

Warriors’ season after Jimmy Butler’s injury

Buttler had only recently been given permission to fly due to his knee condition deteriorating following surgery, so he made it a priority to rejoin the team amid a tough six-game trip, which was a much-needed morale boost for a team struggling to stay afloat.

Golden State has gone 7-16 since Butler tore his ACL on Jan. 19 against the Miami Heat. Shortly after Butler went down, Stephen Curry did the same, suffering patellofemoral pain syndrome and a knee injury. Without their two stars, the Warriors have dropped to ninth place in the West.

And with injuries to other players on their roster, the Portland Trail Blazers are in danger of falling even lower to 10th place as they fall behind. In New York, the Warriors were facing no more than $190 million in payroll, fielding a rotation that included three two-way players and one on 10-day contracts.

After the loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Kerr said, “I remember we lost as well as any team.”

Butler’s recovery timeline

So, it is safe to say that the Warriors missed Butler a lot. But the timeline for when they’ll bring him back after he recovers from this latest injury remains to be seen.

When Butler was asked if he knew when he would be able to return, he said, “I want to come back.”

“We all know that. Obviously I can’t say when. [But] I can help my guys win some games as quickly as possible. But as you’ve probably heard me say a lot, whenever my body is ready, like this injury, for all other injuries, big, small, whenever my body is ready, I promise I’m going to try to get back out.

To get his knee back where it wants to be, Butler is attacking his rehab with a competitive edge, which is a very similar approach to Jimmy Butler’s approach to his recovery. Butler and his rehab team have a chart hanging on the wall with week-by-week goals. The goals are to bend the knee and bend it a certain number of degrees. His next goal at six weeks of rehab is to get rid of his crutches.

“So in a week, you can buy [my] Crutches,” Butler joked, pointing to one of the reporters sitting near his locker.

Charts have become Butler’s obsession in the best possible way. His livelihood was taken away in an instant. A livelihood in which competition was at the center of everything. So being able to frame his rehab like a competition allows Butler to maintain that aspect of his life.

“I see it all the time,” Butler said. “But at the same time, everything we do in rehab is about competition. You know, whether it’s today versus tomorrow. What are my numbers compared to other guys in the past. Don’t say any names, but it’s competition to see if you can be better than them. You can be better than you were yesterday. So it locks me in. Because I at least get a chance to compete that way.”

So while the scars on Butler’s knee are taking a toll on his body, his spirits remain intact. Whatever happens, as strong as ever.

“I’m just going to focus on myself and get back to being the best version of myself.”

Phoenix Suns veteran Dillon Brooks’ promising update on his hand injury ahead of facing the Indiana Pacers could pave the way for his return. Brooks discussed the Suns’ upcoming postseason run and how a potential best-of-7 series would present “problems” for the Minnesota Timberwolves. The forward will look to regain his rhythm between now and the end of the regular season.

Brooks will make his first appearance since a 113–110 double-overtime win against the Orlando Magic on February 21. Brooks was seen during the Suns’ morning shootaround before facing the Pacers on Thursday shooting without actors According to AZ Central’s Duane Rankin, he suffered a fractured left hand.

Dillon Brooks no cast on fractured left hand for Suns morning shootaround. #Sun pic.twitter.com/GntKpKI3Fm

– Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) 12 March 2026

The Suns went 5-3 in their eight games without Brooks, including their current three-game winning streak, which was extended by a 129-114 win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday.

Dillon Brooks warns Timberwolves about Suns’ playoff run

After a heroic performance from Suns veteran Dillon Brooks to capture the top 50 ranking, they threatened the Timberwolves with a potential best-of-7 playoff series. Brooks, who rarely shy away from expressing his honest opinions, believes the Suns can upset the Timberwolves in the postseason.

Brooks claims Suns have Timberwolves’ Numberhe said, according to the Million Dollar Worth of Game podcast.

“You never know, ant [Anthony Edwards] This year it could be a great year and win a chip. . .But they come to us, there’s going to be problems,” Brooks said. “We’ve got their number this year.”

“If they run into us, there will be problems. We’ve got their number this year.”

Dillon Brooks on a potential Suns-Timberwolves playoff matchup 👀

(via @mworthofgame)pic.twitter.com/EgEBtzl7Uf

– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 10 March 2026

The Suns defeated the Timberwolves 108–105 on December 8, almost two weeks after a 114–113 win against the Timberwolves at home.

For the first time since January, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell’s name was not on the injury report, clearing him to return to face the Denver Nuggets on Monday at Paycom Center. Mitchell suffered a stomach strain and a sprained left ankle. Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren is listed as questionable after missing Friday’s 104-97 win against the Golden State Warriors due to illness.

Mitchell, who has emerged as one of Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault’s most reliable guards this season, has rejoined the backcourt, which has filled in for Jared McCann during his absence. Ajay Mitchell is making his return for the Thunder ahead of the highly anticipated rematch of last year’s Western Conference Semifinals best-of-7 series against the Nuggets.

Alex Caruso (left hip) is listed as questionable for the Thunder, while Isaiah Hartenstein (left calf), Jalen Williams during a lengthy rehabilitation for a right hamstring injury, and Brandon Carlson (back) remain out for the defending champions.

Monday’s matchup between the Thunder and Nuggets follows last week’s overtime thriller, which resulted in a 127-121 victory for Oklahoma City. Lou Dort drew a flagrant-2 foul on Nuggets All-Star Nikola Jokic, ending his night after provoking an angry Jokic, who earned a technical foul for connecting with the Thunder’s Jaylin Williams.

Lu Dort apologizes for offensive comment on Nikola Jokic in Thunder’s win

After public backlash, Thunder guard Lou Dort apologized for his flagrant 2 foul on Nuggets All-Star center Nikola Jokic. According to Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic, Dort says he got caught up in the moment and fouled Jokic in a way he regrets.

“It was a physical game the whole game,” Dortch said. “Obviously, there was unnecessary contact that I shouldn’t have made. Getting kicked out of the game hurt me the worst. But yes, it was a high-level game. I’m a competitor, so I compete.”

Fans should expect the same level of intensity in this Western Conference rival between the Thunder and Nuggets, who will meet for the second-to-last time in the regular season on Monday.

LOS ANGELES – When the Los Angeles Lakers first acquired Luka Doncic last season, he immediately developed strong chemistry with Jaxson Hayes in the pick and roll. That chemistry has continued to develop this season, and head coach JJ Redick has even built some of the Lakers’ lineups around that pairing.

Ahead of the Lakers’ game against the Indiana Pacers on Friday, JJ Redick pointed out how some of the team’s most successful lineups have included Luka Doncic and Jaxson Hayes at the same time. That lineup was able to make a positive impact on the last game against the Denver Nuggets, even though it resulted in a loss.

“We’ve had a chance to run some lineups with Jackson and Luka and shoot around that recently, and they’ve been really positive lineups for us. It gives Luka an outlet, it gives Jackson room to run,” Redick said during his pregame press conference. “He did a really good job for us last night, Jackson staying behind the defence, forcing Luka [Nikola] Jok has to make a decision there and allow that leg.”

“And sometimes, Luka was able to score the basketball. We’re not going to be able to do that every game. Denver doesn’t switch on, what we call flips or backside screens. We try to switch to blow him up,” Redick said. “The perimeter guy’s first screen last night, we were able to get some separation, and then from there it’s a quick pitch and roll from Jackson. We got a lot of good things from him.”

According to Databaller, in the Lakers’ top five offensive five-man lineup, Doncic and Hayes are both on the court. Those lineups also include players like Rui Hachimura, Jake Laravia and even rarely used Dalton Knecht, all of whom have been consistent 3-point threats at times for the Lakers.

One reason Hayes is more effective among 3-point shooters is his better decision-making ability in short rolls. He has done a much better job of being able to read defenses faster and recognize corner 3-point shooters.

And when it comes to most assists per 36 minutes when they’re on the floor together, Doncic and Hayes are in the top 10 in the league with 3.5, according to NBA.com.

There’s no doubt that Doncic and Hayes are very happy with each other when they are on the court together. Hayes gives Doncic a legitimate threat that opposing defenses have to be aware of. Defenders will have to choose their poison between Hayes getting a free lob or Doncic getting single coverage on his step-back jumpers.

Heading into the final stretch of the regular season, it will be interesting to see how Redick continues to utilize the team’s different lineups.

Donovan Mitchell participated fully in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ latest practice, meaning he is likely to return before the team hosts the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon. Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson offered an update on the status of his All-Star guards as well as Max Strus, Jarrett Allen and Dean Wade.

Both Mitchell and Wade were fully engaged in Friday’s session, with Strus performing at about “90 percent” and Allen not practicing.

After missing the last four games with a right groin strain, Mitchell appears to be on his way to returning for Cleveland’s showdown with the Celtics. The same can be said for Wade, who hasn’t played in Milwaukee since Feb. 25 because of a right ankle sprain.

Strus got even tougher on Friday, and there is light at the end of the tunnel, although he likely won’t suit up for the Boston game in two days.

“He could have gone higher,” Atkinson said. “He and I got closer today in a loving way. He’s always going to challenge you. He always brings an energy. He gives 100 percent every practice. Obviously we missed the player, but we missed his personality.

“He and James [Harden] Worked out in a small group before starting, so that was good. It makes you feel optimistic, doesn’t it? You are becoming complete. If you look at it that way, adding Max is like adding another excellent free agent.

How serious is Jarrett Allen’s injury for the Cavs?

Atkinson assured the media that Allen’s right knee injury was “absolutely not long-term.”

“He did some conditioning and treatment, so we’ll see about that,” Atkinson said. “If he is out, it is a short-term thing.”

Allen suffered the illness while attempting to grab a rebound in the opening moments of the second half against the Detroit Pistons and was ruled out for the remainder of Tuesday’s contest.

It doesn’t look like the Cavs’ big man will suit up on Sunday, but we’ll get a clearer picture on Saturday.

Nottingham Forest striker Lorenzo Lucca is not expected to require surgery on an ankle injury after being assessed in Rome today.

This is according to Aria Naples, Which today covers the 25-year-old man’s flight journey for medical consultation in Italy.

Sport Witness covered various reports on Friday explaining Lucca has an ankle injuryHence his recent absence from Nottingham Forest’s squads.

That first report was followed by a second explanation that he had gone to Italy For medical advice. He was supposed to be somewhere in Rome today.

no surgery required

Now provide Area Naples details. The Italian website reports that Lucca was tested today at the famous Villa Stuart facility in Rome.

He met with specialists at the Rome clinic, which is used by Napoli and others for their medical checks on new signings.

Those examinations have now been completed. According to his information, the tests lasted two hours before he left the Roman facility in Lucca. And this was good news too.

Early indications are that Lucca will not require surgery for this problem. In reality, the injury is not a major concern, and he should recover from the problem ‘as soon as possible’.

Napoli certainly hope so as they want Nottingham Forest to buy him permanently for €35m.

option to buy nottingham forest

The striker has barely made an impact at Nottingham Forest since arriving in the January transfer window.

He has made five appearances so far, but only 197 minutes in total. He has started two of them, and has scored one goal. This came in his debut match against Leeds United in early February.

As of now, Vitor Pereira doesn’t seem that keen on him. This led to reports that Nottingham Forest were unwilling to activate their option to purchase him. The ankle injury will definitely push him in that direction as well.

But with the problem not requiring surgery, Lucca has a chance to make his mark between now and the end of the season.

The Phoenix Suns have been without Devin Booker for the past four games as he deals with a hip strain injury he suffered during the team’s 121-94 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Feb. 19. However, his latest update suggests that he may make a comeback soon.

According to John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Phoenix, reports indicate the 29-year-old guard is expected to return the first week of March. Booker could return for either Tuesday’s game against the Sacramento Kings or Thursday’s contest against the Chicago Bulls.

“Devin Booker is recovering from a hip injury and is poised to return after a four-day break – possibly Sacramento on Tuesday or Chicago on Thursday.”

This is very good news for the Suns team, which is firmly involved in the Western Conference. As of Friday, Feb. 27, Phoenix owns the No. 7 seed. Booker returning to the lineup should give the team what it needs to compete in the final stretch of the regular season.

The 11-year veteran has been the face of the franchise this season. Although many believed the Suns could potentially struggle, Phoenix has actually been incredibly competitive. Especially when Devin Booker is on the court. In the 44 games he has played, Booker is averaging 24.7 points, 3.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game, while shooting 45.5% from the field and 30.8% from beyond the three-point line.

After defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 113-110 on Thursday, the Suns will not play again until Tuesday’s game against the Kings. Phoenix gets three consecutive days off, giving Booker and his teammates plenty of time to rest and prepare for Sacramento.

SAN FRANCISCO — After missing the past three games due to illness, Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis is headed in the right direction ahead of the Dubs’ matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Following the Warriors’ Friday afternoon practice, Steve Kerr gave a positive update on the big man’s status.

“Kristaps felt better in practice today. It’s the first time he’s done anything since his illness,” Kerr said. “He would be suspicious [for the Lakers game]”

It’s been a rough start to the Porzingis era in Golden State. After his mixed debut against the Boston Celtics, in which he scored 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting in 17 minutes of action, health has once again proven to be a hindrance for the big man. Before the Denver game, the first game Porzingis missed during this period, Kerr said that Porzingis’ illness was so severe that he could not leave his hotel room. And last week, Porzingis remained at the bay to recover as the Dubs went on the road for a quick back-to-back.

With the disease rearing its head, Porzingis’ medical history with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) certainly comes to the forefront of speculation. In the past, Porzingis has struggled with POTS’ chronic symptoms, primarily an increased heart rate that later leads to dizziness and extreme fatigue.

However, the Warriors have not officially linked this particular disease to that specific condition. Details about Porzingis’ symptoms and the specifics of his illness remain scarce and vague. Still, this is an ailment that Golden State knew about when they traded for him and were confident they could manage.

So far, health has hampered Porzingis’ start in Golden State, but hopefully they can get him back against the Lakers.

Draymond Green injury update

As for other injury updates, Kerr said Draymond Green was able to participate in practice and he expects to be available against Los Angeles after lower back pain sidelined him against the Memphis Grizzlies.

But the problem with Green, lately, has been when he’s been available and on the court. Whenever Green takes the field, his decline in offensive performance has a negative impact on the rest of the team. In the last two games he has missed, the Warriors have scored more than 120 points. And in the last two games, they have decided not to finish with him; They have managed to pick up some close wins over the Phoenix Suns and Grizzlies.

On the season, when Green is on the floor, the Warriors are 4.3 points worse per 100 possessions, which is in the bottom 22nd percentile among players at his position. For a player who had historic on-off, positive plus/minus in his heyday, the situation he is in now is a far cry from his peak.

It’s a problem of which Kerr is acutely aware. Last week, he said it was up to him and the coaching staff to put him in the best position to succeed. After practice, Kerr talked about how they can find a rhythm with him out there.

“We have to read the situation. New Orleans, we found more rhythm in the second half with Dre than we did in the first, and so it’s some type of sets we can call,” Kerr said. “We’re doing some of our off-ball things. And then some adjustments that he’s going to have to make without Steph, and those are all things we talked about internally and with the whole group.”

Real Madrid legend Emilio Butragueno has insisted he is really excited to face Manchester City once again in the Champions League.

Marca covered the Real Madrid icon’s comments today. It seems he is not tired of facing Manchester City yet.

The draw pits the two sides against each other in the last 16 of the Champions League. Manchester City head to the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg and host the Spanish giants at the Etihad a week later.

This is the fourth consecutive season they will face each other. This is the seventh time in seven years that the two giants have met in the knockout stage of the competition.

Real Madrid vs Manchester City again

However, as far as butragueño is concerned, there is nothing stale about it. Instead, he emphasizes that general excitement remains before the confrontation.

“We’re really excited about it,” he said.

“This competition means a lot to us, and we have full confidence in the ability of our players and that they will rise to the challenge.”

The rivalry is extremely balanced at the moment. In their 15 meetings so far in the Champions League, both sides have recorded five wins and five draws each.

Real Madrid knocked out Manchester City last season With a 6–3 win in the knockout stage. Last year, the Spanish team advanced on penalties after a 4-4 draw in the quarter-finals.

equal record

However, Manchester City defeated Real Madrid 4–0 at the Etihad in 2023, after a 1–1 draw in the first leg. That win came in the semi-finals and Pep Guardiola’s side secured their first title. Butragueño is expecting another top game.

“We know each other very well,” he said.

“They have a great team, not just a great team. They have a great team and that gives Guardiola a lot of options.”

“Whenever we play them, it’s always an attacking game, with two teams looking to dominate, which usually results in a lot of goals. (It’s) one of the best matches you can see in the world.”

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson didn’t provide any official medical update on Max Strus ahead of the team’s win over the New York Knicks, but what he had to say falls in line with the impression that the veteran swingman is getting healthier by the day.

“I watched him work on the court today,” Atkinson said Monday night. “It’s been a really positive trend. A lot of activity, contact with coaches, changes in direction. So that’s all I’ll tell you. What it means — when you start playing, all that — I can’t give you that. I haven’t even asked.

“I was so pleased and surprised, like, man, he’s starting to pick it up now.”

This is the first instance in which Atkinson mentions that Strus graduated from non-contact court work and conditioning to working against contact. Although this is only against the coaching staff, it is an important development that portends a comeback.

Strus has yet to play a game this season after suffering a Jones fracture of his left foot in late August, a few weeks before training camp. The Cavs’ last official statement on the injury came on January 6, indicating it required more time to heal. Strus had a follow-up evaluation four weeks later, but other than Atkinson emphasizing his progress, the team has not released any other updates since then.

“The hardest part for him is just being patient,” Cavs president Koby Altman said in his post-trade-deadline Zoom call with the media in early February. “That injury was a terrible offseason injury. It took a long time to heal, but he’s making progress. He’s getting back on the field, and we’re excited to have him for this stretch run, but we’re definitely taking our time to make sure that when he comes back, he’s 100 percent.

“I know there’s no one more excited than him to come back. No one’s pushing harder than him to come back. But at the same time, we want to make sure he’s 100 percent when he comes back. And unfortunately I still don’t have a timetable for you.”

Atkinson recently shared that Cleveland does not have a target number of games for the Struts to play in order to advance to the postseason. He hopes to suit up in the regular season.

“Getting Max back any time before the playoffs would be a huge bonus,” Atkinson said. “I mean, he missed a lot of time last year with an ankle. He’s not a 22-year-old, right? A guy with that experience and the way he works in the weight room. Of course, he wants a little runway where he can find his rhythm. But, as long as we get him to make a run in the playoffs, I think it’s a win for us. He has a lot of experience. Obviously, he played very well in the playoffs last year.”

It will be interesting to see how the Cavs’ rotation looks when Strus returns to the floor. Atkinson has plenty of options to go with the rebuilt core of James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Guys like Dean Wade, Sam Merrill, Jaylon Tyson and Keon Ellis have proven their ability to step up when needed. Unfortunately, someone will have to fall down a peg due to the depth of the team.

“Obviously, thrilled that we’re getting healthy. We’re almost there,” Atkinson said last week. “Max, like that last part, but almost perfect. So I think it’s figuring out the rotation and the lineup. That’s the biggest thing. And also, when you have everybody healthy, obviously, the minutes are distributed differently. Guys who are playing a lot may not be playing as much.

“There’s a lot of moving pieces with this, which we all know is part of it. And everybody has to make sacrifices and do their part. But listen, it’s a good problem to have with the talent we have. So, excited to see James with the new guys we’re integrating.”

Arsenal defender Jakub Kivior’s loan deal to FC Porto is likely to be costly even before it becomes permanent.

he is According to Correio da ManhaWhich covers the Defender today. According to the Portuguese newspaper, he could be set for a big bonus.

Kiwior joined the Portuguese side on loan from Arsenal in the summer transfer window. The deal includes an option for him to make it permanent, which is likely to be activated.

arsenal regret

The Polish defender has been earning praise since day one at his loan club. In fact, there have been signs of Arsenal having regrets after the defender Admitted that Mikel Arteta did not want him to leave.

It has been a good season for them too as Porto currently top the table, four points ahead of Sporting Clube de Portugal. Benfica are in third place with 52 points, seven points behind their rivals.

Kiwior has been a major part of their success, and he is sure to benefit from it. Corio reports that the centre-back will receive an additional €800,00 net per year. If he wins the title it will start from next year. This represents an additional €4m on his contract.

He currently earns €1.7m net, but if they win the title, his maximum salary cap at the club will rise to €2.5m.

Porto will pay the highest price for him when a €17m deal becomes permanent in the summer.

long term investment

They have already paid €2m towards the loan. They would then need to add a five-year contract, bringing their total outlay until 2031 to around €25 million. But there is no unhappiness about this fact.

Instead, Arsenal’s pursuit of the defender represents a major investment in the team. Expenditures on salaries of players and coaching staff have increased by 19% compared to last year.

That will increase even more if Kiwior helps them win the league, and that looks likely at the moment.

On deadline day, sports witness Covered the loan of Aston Villa player Samuel Illing-Junior to Pisa. This came after he spent the first half of the season on loan at West Bromwich Albion.

In the championship, the winger played 24 times and scored one goal. Although he did not contribute many goals, the Englishman was a regular.

He started each of the Baggies’ final four games before his surprise departure. It was the first time in some time that he got regular minutes.

Now, it seems the decision to leave Aston Villa on a second loan is paying off.

Aston Villa player praised

Iling-Junior made his debut for Pisa against AC Milan on Friday. He came off the bench to play 33 minutes and made a real impact.

It was noted NationWho saw some ‘very positive things’ from the attacker. Despite not starting, he was one of the bright spots in the 2–1 defeat, as Pisa almost equalized the game.

Coincidentally, his Pisa debut came against Max Allegri, who had given Iling-Junior his debut during his time at Juventus.

Against the Rossoneri, he showed his blistering pace and worked reliably in tight spaces. This helped Pisa to hold Milan during counter-attacks.

There is a belief that manager Oscar Hiljemark could give the 22-year-old a start against Fiorentina.

A big opportunity for Pisa Illing-Junior

Last season, the winger spent two separate loan spells at Middlesbrough and Bologna. For the Serie A team, he only played 117 minutes in the league. In the Championship, he made 16 appearances but was never able to produce consistent performances.

This was also the situation at West Brom at the start of this season and that is why this is a huge opportunity for Pisa Illing-Junior to really prove himself.

Expectations will be low from Bologna Magic, especially since Pisa is struggling for survival. If he makes significant contributions in such a situation, his stock will naturally rise.

This would net Aston Villa a large fee from any future sale.

Lucas Bergvall played regularly for Tottenham Hotspur until January.

On 20 January, the Sweden international suffered an ankle injury in Spurs’ Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund. Juneai Byfield replaced him in the 62nd minute of the European match.

Three days later, Tottenham confirmed that the midfielder had undergone surgery after suffering a ‘high ankle sprain’ against the Bundesliga team. Spurs did not specify a time frame for his recovery.

Bergvall doubtful for World Cup qualifiers

Last week, Sports Witness Covered claims from Sweden The 20-year-old could miss Norway’s World Cup qualifier against Ukraine in March.

Sweden boss Graham Potter admitted it is difficult for Bergvall and his Tottenham teammate Dejan Kulusevski to recover in time for the crucial clash.

Recent claims have suggested that Bergvall will be out of action for two to three months. football direct Relay it and then give your opinion on the 20-year-old’s rehabilitation.

Positive update on Tottenham player’s recovery

The Tottenham player wore a protective boot after going under the knife. According to the report, he no longer wears it and this is definitely a positive update.

Football Direct say ‘things are going in the right direction’ in the player’s recovery process.

The outlet says the current prognosis suggests he could be back on the field in about six weeks. This will happen only if his rehabilitation goes according to plan and he faces no further setbacks.

Sweden will face Ukraine on March 26. Considering the Tottenham midfielder’s recovery so far, the possibility of him being fit in time for the World Cup qualifiers cannot be ruled out. ‘A race against time awaits the midfielder,’ say Football Direct.

Earlier this month, Spurs parted ways with Thomas Frank after a series of poor results and performances. The north London club has failed to record a league win this calendar year.

Tottenham have already confirmed the appointment of Igor Tudor until the end of the season.