標籤: return

Manchester City star Rodri has admitted he fears he may not recover from a cruciate ligament injury in 2024.

AS reports comments from Manchester City The midfielder from an interview with DAZN’s Revelado program.

injury nightmare

The 29-year-old player recalled various moments of his career so far, including his absence last season due to injury.

The midfielder was at his peak after winning the Ballon d’Or when he suffered a cruciate ligament tear in September 2024.

That injury caused him to spend the next seven months, 220 days, out recovering, causing him to miss most of the season before returning in April 2025. In total, he missed 51 games for club and country during this period.

return doubt

This was the first major injury of his career, compared to his previous absence at Manchester City which totaled seven games. And he admits he doubted he would be able to bounce back from it.

“It’s part of life. Not so good moments,” he said while looking at a photo of the moment he was hurt.

“It’s my knee injury. You have to deal with it in the most positive way possible. It was a time of reflection, of recovery. It was tough, I won’t deny that, but you’ll get over it and come out stronger. Now I’m back and feeling stronger than ever.

“When I came back, I had some doubts about being able to play normally again. I felt very limited, a lot of pain. When you stop completely, your body brings out what it was not able to give you during that time.

“There was a moment of doubt where I wondered not only whether I would be able to return to my previous level, but also whether I would ever be able to play again. I have proved that. I have returned to that consistency in my football. It’s been a long road, that’s clear.”

Manchester City About to find out if River Plate’s persistence becomes a real factor in Claudio Echeverri’s future.

The Argentine club tried to bring back the attacking midfielder in January. They worked hard, player interest grew and the return to Buenos Aires showed some momentum. Yet this step was never taken.

At the time, the main obstacle was Manchester City’s determination to keep Echeverri within City Football Group’s development path. Instead of returning to South America, he was sent to girona For the second half of the season.

Now Rivers is preparing for another attempt, and the circumstances look very different.

according to TYC SportsThe Argentine side will contact Manchester City directly to find out if Echeverri can join on loan.

The report adds that Rivers believes the youngster could struggle for significant first-team consideration next season and sees an opportunity to renegotiate a deal that fell through just six months ago.

January’s effort provides important context

This is not a new idea of ​​Rivers. As we followed closelyThe club had already tried to secure Echeverri in January after his loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen was going nowhere.

TYC Sports reports that Rivers pushed hard at the time The player himself was curious about the possibility.

However, Manchester City refused to approve the move. And girona compromise solution.

At the time, it seemed logical. Verona offered regular experience in a major European league, familiarity with the City Football Group model, and a working route for other young players.

But the reality proved more complex.

More minutes, but no success

Echeverri certainly played more football in Spain than in Germany.

After barely appearing for Leverkusen, he made 17 appearances for Verona during the second half of the campaign. Yet only five of them appeared as starters. His final numbers were one goal and one assist.

were there encouraging signs. Bayern manager Michel Sánchez repeatedly talked about helping him play with more freedom and confidence.

However, the loan did not exactly become the success that many had hoped for.

Perhaps the biggest disappointment came collectively. Verona’s season ended with relegation from La Liga, meaning that Echeverri’s first extended experience of senior European football ended with a drop to the second division.

Guardiola’s departure may change the equation

It is here that the river sees an opening.

According to TYC Sports, the club’s view is that Echeverri could still find himself down the pecking order at Manchester City next season. A first-team role under Guardiola was already looking difficult. This arguably looks even more uncertain during a managerial change.

Also, the biggest obstacle the river faced in January has disappeared.

Guardiola was a central figure In the decision to keep Echeverri in Europe and under the umbrella of City Football Group. With the Spaniard gone, River can reasonably expect City’s football department to re-evaluate the situation.

The player remains under contract until June 2028, so Manchester City will retain full control over the next step. Still, Rivers believes there are some reasons to be optimistic.

TYC Sports report that the Argentine side feel a positive disposition from Echeverri and maintain open dialogue with Manchester City officials.

Relations between the clubs have been strong over the years, helped by past business such as Julián Álvarez’s move to England.

Whether this will be enough is another question.

Samuel Chukwueze joins fulham on an initial loan deal last summer. No permanent deal will be made immediately.

The Nigerian scored three times and assisted four times in the Premier League. He showed glimpses of his pace and 1v1 ability but lacked consistency.

This has created uncertainty about his intentions to exercise his option to buy Fulham. sports witness Covered how at one point, Milan were confident the deal would be completed.

This was also the time when the player was going through a period of good form, scoring against Manchester City and providing an assist against Tottenham.

Milan is getting desperate

corriere dello sport Report that the Nigerian will return to Milan soon. The same applies for other loanees like Ismail Bennacer and Yunus Musah.

It is believed Fulham do not want to exercise their €29m option to buy.

Fulham could demand a discount later in the summer, with the winger keen to stay. If not, he wants to stay in England and hopes for a Premier League transfer.

The 27-year-old feels English football is good for him and would be open to a concession deal if the Craven Cottage club wanted.

Milan would probably be open to it. They have missed out on Champions League football and need money.

Fulham could ask for another loan

As of now, the ex-Villarreal player’s contract at Milan expires in 2028. The Rossoneri do not see him as part of their plans and will accept whatever they get, especially if there are some guarantees of a permanent deal.

Fulham could take advantage of this and see next season as an opportunity to better evaluate the player. AFCON hampered his progress in the 2025/26 campaign and also due to injuries.

Edson Alvarez needs to stay in Europe this summer, even if he moves west ham united After returning from a loan spell at Fenerbahce.

This is the opinion of Mexican journalist Raul ‘Polo’ Ortiz. His comments were broadcast by Marca.

return to west ham

Edson Alvarez is set to return to West Ham this summer after a season-long loan deal at Fenerbahce.

The Hammers were hoping the Turkish side would take up the option to buy the 28-year-old permanently, but they have decided against it.

Alvarez has barely featured for them this season, making just 12 appearances in the league. It was observed that he appeared in only 26% of the available minutes. It is seen that despite having already paid him €2m on loan, they decided against the option to buy.

The midfielder will therefore return to the London Stadium after competing at the World Cup with Mexico.

The question is what happens after that. He does not appear to be part of West Ham’s plans. And he will certainly be a player they will look to build on after falling short in the Championship this season.

live in europe

With a deal until 2028, this summer could be the last in which they can secure a good price for the midfielder too. He is currently valued at €15m. West Ham paid €38m for him in 2023.

Reports have linked him to a possible return to Mexico, but Ortiz believes that would be completely the wrong move at this point.

“Edson Alvarez should return to West Ham next season,” he said on the Fox Sports program +90.

“There’s talk that Rayados, Tigres and America could say, ‘You know what, come here.’ Two years ago he was close to joining Chelsea. And last year too there was talk of a return to Ajax.

“He should stay in Europe. Injuries have troubled him. But in my opinion, he has the level to continue playing in Europe.”

Islam Makhachev’s long-awaited UFC return has just been confirmed, and it was by his potential opponent.

Fight fans haven’t seen the Russian compete at UFC 322 since November. That night, the renowned lightweight champion moved up in weight to take on welterweight titlist Jack Della Maddalena. He dominated just like he did at 155 pounds and joined the exclusive club of fighters who have won UFC titles in two divisions.

Since then, there has been speculation as to who he would face in his first defense. Stars like Kamaru Usman, Ian Machado Gary and Michael Morales have been linked to a fight with Makhachev. Still, nothing concrete like the actual date has come to light. Well, that changed on Wednesday.

Michael Morales confirms title fight against Islam Makhachev in August?

“I always make my own luck and that’s why I will be the next champion ✍🏽 15-08-26,” Morales wrote in a new post on his Instagram account. From the caption accompanying a photo of him shaking hands with UFC CEO Dana White, it appears he has signed a contract for the fight to take place on August 15.

This is the tentative date for UFC 330 at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, PA. No fights have been announced on the card yet, but it would be a good headliner for the event.

The Ecuadorian will be a worthy challenger for the new champion. His record in the UFC is 19-0 (7-0) and he scored a first-round knockout victory over Sean Brady on the same card on which Makhachev won the welterweight title.

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

The New England Patriots are expected to acquire All-Pro wide receiver AJ Brown next month in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. This appears to open the door to dealing fellow wideout Kayshon Bout.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated shared his belief that Bout could be acquired by any interested team for a “fifth- or sixth-round draft pick” by now and if he is interested.

• Kayshawn Bout Statistics (2025): 33 receptions, 551 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns and 16.7 yards per reception

Boutte, a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is coming off back-to-back seasons with over 500 receiving yards. He proved to be a reliable deep threat for quarterback Drake Mays last season, averaging the fifth-highest average target distance (17.0 yards) along with a career-high 16.7 yards per reception.

The 24-year-old’s youth and contract certainly make him an attractive trade target. While he would just be a one-year rental, Boutte’s $3.72 million cap hit in 2026 ranks 66th among receivers. This puts him on the same level as players like Tyquan Thornton, Andrei Iosivas and Xavier Hutchinson.

However, there is no viable path to a featured role in the Patriots offense following the acquisition of Brown. Romeo Doubs was signed as the No. 2 receiver and the club is still ahead of Mack Hollins, Demario Douglas and Kyle Williams.

Boutte’s name had previously surfaced in NFL trade rumors, with some believing he could be sent to Philadelphia as part of a trade package for the Browns. However, the Eagles seem set at wide receiver with Devonta Smith, Makai Lemon, Dontevian Wicks, Hollywood Brown and Elijah Moore.

If Boute’s one-year rental is worth a Day 3 pick, he could be an interesting option for teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, New York Giants and Washington Commanders.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

chelsea’s The situation regarding Estevao’s injury has not softened, but the player’s camp has not softened either. Both sides are also favoring different recovery paths after the youngster’s World Cup hopes were dashed.

At one level, the disagreement can be explained by urgency. Estevao wanted to keep the possibility of playing for Brazil alive this summer. Chelsea were thinking ahead, wary of rushing the 19-year-old through his recovery from a serious muscle injury after an already rocky start to his first season in England.

now though, The World Cup is gone from the equationBut the divide remains where it was.

Chelsea still in favor of surgery

according to globo esporteChelsea believe surgery would be the best course of action following the forward’s hamstring injury.

The issue was discussed early in the recovery process when Estevao suffered what was described as a serious hamstring injury in Brazil.

Reports vary slightly as to the exact severity, but there has never been any doubt that the injury was significant.

chelsea’s thinking The entire saga has been relatively straightforward.

The club sees Estevao as one of the key parts of their future project and have no interest in taking unnecessary risks with recurring muscle problems at an early stage of his career.

There have already been several absences linked to muscle problems this season alone. This concern partly explains why the club initially leaned toward surgery.

Estevao camp refuses to change course

What’s shocking now is that Estevao and the professionals around him still don’t agree – even with the World Cup no longer on the table.

The report states that the player’s entourage is confident that conservative treatment is the right option and there is no need for surgery.

Previously, it was possible to formulate the Orthodox path as a aggressive effort to beat the clock For the tournament. But that pressure has vanished with Carlo Ancelotti leaving Estevao out of Brazil’s preliminary World Cup list.

And yet the treatment plan remains the same. So it’s no longer about trying to create a miracle recovery for June. There are real differences in medical philosophy and risk assessment between club and player.

Return to London may be important

As we covered earlierEstevao is expected to return to England soon after spending his recent days in Brazil working in Palmeiras’ facilities, where he continues his rehabilitation under a shared structure involving the Chelsea staff and his personal performance team.

The Blues are expected to re-evaluate the player, and this could restart internal discussions about the next step in his treatment. Meanwhile, Estevao seems comfortable continuing with a slower and more conservative approach.

It remains to be seen whether the club will push for surgery again, but their priority clearly has not disappeared. At the same time, the player’s side appears equally determined not to change direction.

Ultimately, one side’s approach is likely to gain strength based on muscle response. But either way, without the pressure of a World Cup timeline, the coming weeks could be quieter publicly but more important clinically.

If the recovery progresses well, the player camp will feel reassured. If setbacks emerge, Chelsea’s caution may seem increasingly justified. At present, neither side seems ready to move forward.

This time last year, gold medal-winning boxer and pound-for-pound superstar Vasiliy Lomachenko capped off his impressive run while competing in the sweet science. The Ukrainian went out on a high note with a knockout win over George Kambosos Jr. in his last fight, and at the age of 37, it looked like his decision would hold after losing two of his last six. Well, that didn’t happen.

On Tuesday, Ring Magazine’s Mike Coppinger reported that the three-division champion intends to return to the sport this fall, and that he will not compete in a tune-up bout. He wants to jump into the deep end of the pool and is looking for a big money fight.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at four potential opponent options for Lomachenko’s next fight.

shakur stevenson

The scrap many fight fans will be hoping for is a matchup with, arguably, the toughest puzzle in the sport at the moment, Shakur Steveson. The 28-year-old has excelled on his way to a 25-0 record and has become one of the most sought-after fighters in boxing.

If the former lightweight champion is looking for a big name and a bigger challenge to return from retirement, there is no better option at lightweight or junior welterweight.

teofimo lopez

Teofimo Lopez became a star in the sport when he scored a stunning decision win over Lomachenko in 2020. It was a defeat the future Hall of Famer never had to avenge. Having suffered defeat against Stevenson in January, a rematch with the Ukrainian would be risky. However, a second win over “High Tech”, even at the age of 38, would one day strengthen his own HOF case.

Ending his retirement to get one back – something he has yet to do for any of his three losses – would be an interesting story as well as a great fight.

Raymond Muratalla

Another interesting option for Vasiliy Lomachenko’s comeback fight would be a scrap with the best fighter at lightweight not named Shakur Stevenson, Raymond Muratalla. The 29-year-old is 24-0 and holds the IBF title after defeating Andy Cruz in January.

It would be no surprise to see Lomachenko jump into title contention immediately, potentially setting up a unification bout with Stevenson early next year.

Naoya Inoue

Although it is unlikely, fight fans would love to see a dream fight between Vasiliy Lomachenko and current pound-for-pound star Naoya Inoue. After moving to 33-0 with a decision win over Junto Nakatani this month, there’s really not much else to do around that weight class for the unified junior featherweight king.

At the age of 33, when he is at the peak of his powers, he has to look for bigger opportunities to make money. Would the 122-pound star be willing to move up to 130, and would Lomachenko be willing to move down to make the fight? This is something both men should consider.

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

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin spent some time in DC after the season ended. However, the 40-year-old is officially heading back to his native Russia for the summer.

Ovechkin recently completed his 21st season with the Capitals. Now, he will look to make a decision on his future as he becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer.

According to Russian news outlet TASS, Ovechkin and his family are scheduled to arrive in Moscow, Russia on Wednesday. The 40-year-old’s wife, Nastya Ovechkina, posted a photo on Instagram of their two sons sitting on top of the luggage.

At media breakdown day, Ovechkin said he was “pretty sure” he had not played his final NHL game. However, their decision will depend on health and family circumstances. The Great 8’s sons, Sergei and Ilya, want him to play another year.

“I tell them, ‘We’ll see.’ They’re excited,” Ovechkin said. “They want me to come back because they love the city, and they love the team, and they love the guys.”

More importantly, Ovechkin hopes the Capitals will compete for another Stanley Cup by his return.

“That’s probably the biggest thing,” Ovechkin said. “Otherwise, if you take different scenarios, like family-wise, health-wise, but also team-wise, that’s the most important thing for me.”

Ovechkin finished the 2025–26 season with 64 points (32 goals, 32 assists) while appearing in all 82 games for the Capitals. Meanwhile, the team missed the playoffs for just the fifth time during The Great 8’s tenure in DC.

Harry Lichtman is an award-winning journalist who covers the Washington Capitals for SportsNut. He also contributes to the sites… More about Harry Lichtman

David de Gea has experienced a rebirth of sorts after leaving Manchester United. His future at Fiorentina is under threat and is attracting a lot of attention in Italy.

earlier this year, sports witness Covered the Spaniard’s comments about an Old Trafford exit. He described the break year in his career as something that changed him, helping him change his career to Florence.

He has been a regular player for two seasons and has seen ups and downs during this period.

De Gea’s current deal expires in 2028 but there are suggestions he could leave in the summer. Now it seems that only Manchester United can snatch him.

Player may wish to withdraw

Journalist Luca Calamai spoke to Caffè Nero Bolante, addressing some of the hot topics in the Florence club.

He spoke openly about De Gea’s future and suggested he was keen to stay at Fiorentina. But only a call from Manchester United would prompt him to leave in the summer.

The Italian said- via florenceviola: : “I feel like Fiorentina is a big question mark no matter which way you look at it.

“A few days ago, also thanks to the news given by Niccolo Ceccarini, we were convinced that at least with De Gea, for example, everything was decided because the player has clearly and unequivocally expressed his desire to stay in Florence, leaving only a glimpse of a return to Manchester United.”

The journalist explained that not long ago, De Gea’s future at La Viola seemed certain. But now things are not the same, Juventus is moving forward.

“Will De Gea stay? It seemed certain, but today in Turin rumors are resurfacing that De Gea is among the candidates for the Bianconeri jersey.

“There are also talks of contacts between Fiorentina and Juventus on this front, so the question is: does De Gea want to stay, but does Fiorentina want to keep him, or do they want to invest permanently in young Martinelli and save the big salary?”

In short, it seems as if everything will fall to the Spaniard. He has a long-term contract and there is no real reason for him to leave, unless a bigger club calls for him or Manchester United makes a surprise move.

no possibility of return

The future of Altay Bayindir is in doubt. His exit may leave Manchester United looking for a back-up but it is unlikely De Gea will accept that role. At Fiorentina he would get more regular first-team football.

If the New York Mets season doesn’t pick up serious momentum over the next few months, a team insider offered an idea for what they could get in return if they sold some of their valuable pieces, such as Freddy Peralta.

After a poor performance in April, the Mets have played better of late. Winning four of their last six and back-to-back series. But things still feel volatile, and it wouldn’t be surprising if things spiraled out of control once again in the coming weeks and months. That’s why the idea of ​​becoming a seller before the trade deadline is being whispered among fans.

This was something a supporter questioned The Athletic’s Mets insider Tim Britton about in a new mailbag piece. In response to the question of which players are most tradeable, Britton offered some interesting ideas on what the team could get for pitcher Freddy Peralta.

He wrote, “I think Peralta would be able to bring back a top 100 prospect and maybe one other prospect in a July trade.”

Clay Holmes won’t get a strong trade return to the Mets?

The Mets gave up top 100 prospects Jett Williams and Brandon Sprott in a deal for the two-time All-Star. After a poor start in his New York debut in March, Peralta has performed well in his seven starts since then. Giving up two or fewer runs in four of those starts.

Besides Peralta, who else did Britton think could get a good return in a potential trade amid the summer trade deadline? Many may consider Clay Holmes as he has had a great start to the season. However, a Mets insider suggests that since he is likely to opt out of the final year of his contract, his limited track record will hurt his value in the market.

Britton actually believes relievers Brooks Raleigh and AJ Minter can provide good returns for the club if Raleigh can maintain his strong start or Minter can get healthy. Furthermore, they do not see any obvious players who would attract much outside interest.

Britton wrote, “Bo Bichette’s complicated contract makes it difficult to trade him. Luis Robert Jr. needs to get healthy and perform to be of interest to other teams.” “Guys like Marcus Semien, Sean Mania and Kodai Senga are going to have to straight up salary dump at this point.”

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

On Saturday night, WWE will return to the ESPN app with the 2026 edition of Backlash. The event, taking place in Tampa, FL, will be headlined by a World Heavyweight Championship match between cousins ​​Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu. And the card will also include the reveal of Dannhausen’s mystery partner for the tag match against Kit Wilson and The Miz.

However, there is another big reveal planned for the event. And that’s an announcement from WWE icon John Cena that will reportedly “shake the foundation of WWE,” according to the future Hall of Famer. Rumors suggest that this club will be related to the launch of WWE. However, it may ultimately get a lot of praise from Tampa fans.

With that in mind, we’re offering five fun speculations about John Cena’s Backlash announcement.

John Cena announces location for WrestleMania 44

WrestleMania 43 is going to take place in Saudi Arabia next year. However, there has been a lot of new speculation on where 44 will be. Recent reports have revealed that Nashville and Ireland are in the running for the event. Considering all the recent news, Cena is likely to announce the location for WrestleMania 44 at Backlash.

John Cena reveals date of 2026 WWE Draft

For years, the annual WWE Draft became a major week on the company calendar. However, last year the event was skipped entirely, and instead, WWE went with the Transfer Portal. With complaints that the product has become a bit stale recently, both Raw and SmackDown really need the roster overhaul that the draft can bring. Fans will welcome the announcement of the 2026 WWE Draft at Backlash.

John Cena announces WWE has purchased the rights to Lucha Underground

There has been a lot of speculation among fans for the past few years regarding the return of Lucha Underground. The brand, which ran for four years from 2014 to 2018, still has a huge number of supporters. Especially since it played a major role in the careers of many current and former WWE stars.

It would be a lot of fun if Cena announced that WWE has purchased the rights to the brand to get a video library and plans to bring the company back with bi-weekly programs.

John Cena reveals plans for a performance center in Mexico

The WWE Performance Center has been one of the biggest successes in the company’s history. Instead of relying solely on talent from the indies or other companies, he created a wrestling factory that developed future stars.

After purchasing AAA last year, there were rumors that the company might open a new performance center in Mexico. It’s possible that this could be Cena’s announcement at Backlash.

John Cena reveals WWE has purchased TNA Wrestling

If Cena’s announcement is to truly shake up WWE, it needs to be monumental. New details on Club WWE won’t do that. However, it would be revealed that he purchased TNA. There has been speculation for some time that the company would purchase its longtime competitor. The working relationship over the past two years may have set the stage for an eventual purchase.

Although this would not be good for the wrestlers and staff, TNA’s video library and brand would be a very valuable asset to WWE.

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

There is no doubt that Shawn Strickland is one of the best 185-pound fighters on the planet. Because of the impressive resume he has built inside the Octagon, he deserves the top spot in our UFC middleweight rankings.

The 30-7 star has victories over some of the best middleweights of the last decade, including division legend Israel Adesanya. Additionally, seven of his losses inside the UFC have come against elite talents, including future Hall of Famers Alex Pereira and Kamaru Usman.

However, a major reason for their rise to fame, or rather infamy, is the lack of a filter between their brain and mouth. Fight fans are accustomed to bold hot takes from competitors. But Strickland lets fly with any and all ideas about social issues on media programs and social media. And in many instances, they provoked serious reactions because of how controversial they were.

Ahead of his return in the championship main event of UFC 328 this weekend, we take a look at some of Strickland’s most outrageous and controversial opinions.

Shawn Strickland doesn’t want women in the workforce

UFC fans have discovered over the years that the former middleweight champion is conservative in many of his views on society. This includes the roles of men and women in society, and in 2023, he stated that he would prefer women to stay at home and have children rather than be part of the American workforce.

“We need to go back to getting women out of the workforce, and maybe that’s where we went wrong, guys. We let women vote, no offense. Think about America before you let women vote… You let these women into the workforce, now we make less money, you’ve got kids raising themselves on TikTok, we need to go back to like 1942, maybe 1958, after dealing with the Germans. We let women in. “Needs to be put back in the kitchen.”

Sean Strickland hated Bad Bunny’s performance in the Super Bowl

One of the biggest stories of 2026 was music mega-star Bad Bunny – one of the most downloaded artists of all time – performing during the Super Bowl. The February demonstration became the most watched demonstration ever. But leading up to a fight against Anthony Hernandez in February, Strickland offered some anti-gay views on the NFL’s decision.

“I think they all gathered around a table and said, ‘You know, guys, how can we ruin this game? How can we make it gay? Why don’t we bring in a gay alien who doesn’t speak English and have him perform?'”

Bunny is Puerto Rican, which makes him a US citizen because Puerto Rico is a US commonwealth.

Shawn Strickland shows no love for women’s MMA

Next weekend will bring the most valuable promotion and a big first for Netflix. A mixed martial arts event headlined by female MMA legends Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. However, the middleweight title contender is not a fan of the upcoming bout between the 39-year-old and the 44-year-old.

“Ronda Rousey is going to steamroll her, and we’ll just see two middle-aged women going through menopause fight each other. I don’t know. I’m not interested in that. Who gives a s***?”

Sean Strickland wants opponent to die in cage?

Strickland has expressed a number of bizarre views on life and death over the years. However, the most controversial was a comment from five years ago in which he toyed with the idea of ​​ending an opponent’s life in the cage. This should have raised big red flags with the UFC brass.

“I would love nothing more than to beat someone up in the ring. Nothing more. That would make me extremely happy. I would also own that ***… Be a sociopath, it’s fun!”

The rise before UFC 328

On Saturday night, Strickland will get his second chance to become middleweight champion when he faces current title holder Khamzat Chimaev. It was always expected that the tension between the two foul-mouthed fighters would increase as we get closer to UFC 328.

The first salvo in trash talk came last week when Strickland suggested he might pull out a gun if Chimaev and his friends tried to confront him before their fight.

“I’ll just pull out my gun, and I can shoot him. If you come at me with three Chechen guys who don’t speak English, I’ll pull out my gun, and I’ll shoot each one of you.”

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

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev will make his first title defense against Sean Strickland on Saturday. The championship fight is set to headline UFC 328 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

After dethroning Dricus du Plessis for the 185-pound championship title last August, Chimaev (15-0) aims to maintain his undefeated record and solidify his status as a middleweight kingpin. Strickland (30-7) last won a championship two years ago. He’ll get another chance when he takes on one of the UFC’s top pound-for-pound fighters.

In anticipation of fight week, we take a look at the five greatest moments of “Borz’s” UFC run.

Khamzat Chimaev’s disastrous UFC debut

In July 2020, the native of Chechen Republic, Russia made his UFC debut with a professional record of 6-0. He defeated John Phillips. Within seconds of the opening round, Chimaev knocked him to the ground. Phillips struggled to get back to his feet throughout the round and Chimaev landed a total of 72 strikes in the first round alone. In the second round, Chimaev continued where he left off and defeated Phillips for the second time.

Just over a minute later, the Russian got Phillips to tap out for a Brabo choke. The quick outing was a big statement from Chimaev in his debut with a major MMA promotion.

Fastest 3-fight win streak in UFC history

In September 2020, Chimaev went up against Gerald Meerschaert. A single right hand effort was enough to knock out Meerschaert, as Chimaev earned a knockout victory at just 0:17 of the first round. This was the shortest period of his tenure with the UFC (but not of his professional career).

With the win, he earned his third consecutive Performance of the Night bonus. Chimaev also won his third consecutive fight in a span of just 66 days. This set a record for the fastest three-fight win streak in UFC history.

Out-Grappling a UFC Legend at UFC 294

Taking a step up in competition, Chimaev faces former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 in October 2023. “The Nigerian Nightmare” possessed elite takedown defense and was only knocked down once in his UFC career.

However, Chimaev scored four takedowns against Usman, with 7:16 of control time remaining. Chimaev won by majority decision, defeating Usman 107–58 in total strikes. The decision victory over a former world champion proved Chimaev’s case as a high-caliber fighter.

Breaking Robert Whittaker’s jaw at UFC 308

Chimaev faced former UFC Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 in October 2024. With a first round loss, the undefeated prospect continued to showcase his fast speed and elite level of wrestling.

Eventually “Reaper” briefly tried to escape, but Chimaev pinned him back to the ground. With just over a minute remaining in the round, Chimaev induced Whittaker to tap to the face crank submission. This was only the second time Whittaker was defeated by submission in the UFC.

Winning gold at UFC 319

Last August at UFC 319, Chimaev got his first title shot against reigning UFC middleweight champion Du Plessis. “Stilnox” had one of the lowest takedown protections among top level fighters. This showed against Chimaev, who scored 12 takedowns and controlled the defending champion to a total of 21:40.

The challenger landed a total of 529 strikes compared to du Plessis’ total of 45. Another UFC record was set by Chimaev for most total strikes in a single fight.

In a completely uneven and one-sided fight, all three judges scored the fight 50–45, giving Chimaev the unanimous decision victory and his first World Championship title.

Born and raised in New York City, Jimmy Robles received a journalism degree from Queens College in 2017. Before… More About Jimmy Robles

crystal Palace Striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has detailed what it was like to see his dream of a move to AC Milan dashed in the January transfer window.

L’Equipe has today had an interview with the 28-year-old. He discusses the failure of the transfer and its impact on him.

January transfer canceled

The Crystal Palace striker was due to join AC Milan at the end of the January transfer window as the Italians look for a new striker to strengthen their options.

The deal was progressing and talks were reaching Milan waiting for the green light To put Jean-Philippe Mateta on the flight and close the deal.

Then it all started collapsing. Doctors had warned AC Milan about the striker’s knees. Various medical tests confirmed that there were some problems and the deal was completely closed.

However the suffering did not end here. Mateta was then forced to return to Crystal Palace, where he spent 38 days out of action and missed eight games of a significant part of the season to recover.

He is now back to his best form, but admits that it took time for him to recover emotionally from the whole affair.

“I’m doing my best, 100%,” He said.

“When you come back, it’s not easy to get your cardio back. I worked hard to get it back, and it’s back. I’m the leader on the team. I’m used to competing; it’s good for me.

“To be honest, it was a real shock when they told me it was over… After that, I immediately thought about how to make a comeback.

“I consulted with several specialists, and when they assured me surgery was not necessary, I focused on the next step, until my return. I worked incredibly hard to show coach (Oliver Glasner) that the leader, “JP”, was there to earn his spot and win with the team.”

crystal palace competition

The strange thing about the whole affair was that Crystal Palace had spent €55.6m to sign Jorgen Strand Larsson from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

This has created competition which was not there before. But the French striker insists there are no problems in the group.

“I don’t think I’m the first person to fail a medical, and I won’t be the last,” He concluded.

“The players know me, and so does the coach. They know that when I’m in the dressing room, I’m there 100% to win. Meanwhile another striker has come in. I’m working with him. Rotating is not a bad thing; I don’t lack match fitness.”

chelsea Now I watch as Estevao flies back to Brazil and begins his recovery, navigating a few stressful days in an uneasy middle ground – even if the World Cup still feels like it’s slipping away.

The teenager’s injury against Manchester United soon became much more than a medical update. First of all, it was about deadlines. Then it became about options. Will there be surgery or not? Take risks now or be cautious later.

As we recently coveredChelsea leaned to one side. Estevao and those around him leaned to the other side.

Now, one path is being taken – even if no one is entirely comfortable with it.

back to familiar surroundings

As confirmed globo esporteEstevao has already been in Brazil since Monday and has begun treatment using the facilities of the Palmeiras club, where everything started for him.

At the same time, Chelsea has also not stepped down. His medical staff remains involved, working with his personal team. Recovery is being shared, viewed from different angles, with everyone trying to pull in the same direction.

However, the big call had already been made. Surgery is off the table.

This option leaves a small door open for the World Cup. It also comes with a level of uncertainty that no one can ignore. The injury itself is serious – close to a complete muscle tear – and they don’t bend easily due to tight schedules.

However, there is something delicate about the decision to fly to Brazil. Staying close to family. To be in a place he knows. In moments like these, those details matter.

Brazil is watching, hoping, doubting

From the outside, Brazil is following every step. They want him there. Even at this age, Estevao has been one of the standout players in this current cycle under Carlo Ancelotti. Already five goals, a growing role, a feeling that he belongs.

still, the mood has changed. Expectations inside the Brazilian setup are now at their most cautious. Words like “very difficult” and “remote” are beginning to appear more frequently. There is hope, but it seems fragile.

Calendar doesn’t help. The team will be announced on May 18. The tournament will start in less than a month. Now every day matters.

A race that can’t wait

Recovery rarely works as fast as the parties involved would like. But Chelsea are watching closely. They have invested in a player they see as part of their future. This thought does not end even with the World Cup looming.

Meanwhile, Estevao is chasing something more urgent. This is the first major tournament and an opportunity that may not come in the same way again.

Somewhere between those two ideas, the current plan took shape.

For now, this allows both parties to move in the same direction. Whether that will get him to the starting line in June is another question entirely.

Tarik Skubal needs elbow surgery. Detroit Tigers manager AJ Hinch announced before Monday’s game against the Boston Red Sox that Skuble has been ruled out of his upcoming start and placed on the injured list. The back-to-back Cy Young Award winner will undergo surgery to remove a loose body in his left elbow.

Skubal appeared to be in danger of injury after moving his left hand, removing his glove, and rubbing his left elbow in the seventh inning of his last start. Skubal remained in the game and looked to be in good position to make his next start. Now, the Tigers’ starting pitcher needs surgery.

When will Tarik Skubal return to Detroit Tigers after surgery?

It’s a devastating blow for Detroit, which has faced injuries to begin the 2026 MLB season. Now, Skubal, who was one of the favorites to win the 2026 American League Cy Young Award, is joining the injured list. So, when will Skubal return to the Tigers after his elbow surgery?

As ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported, these procedures typically sideline pitchers for two to three months. Therefore, Skubal will return in July or early August, giving him time before the 2026 MLB postseason. This shouldn’t rule Skubal out for the remainder of the 2026 MLB season, but it will end his bid for a third Cy Young Award.

Now, Framber Valdez will be the Tigers’ ace in the summer. The Detroit pitching staff has been affected by injuries, and signing Valdez in the winter proves to be one of the best moves the organization has made now. This also has another impact on Scoble, who is set to become a free agent after the 2026 MLB season.

Skubal has suffered elbow injuries in the past, including Tommy John surgery in 2017 and flexor tendon surgery in 2022. The 29-year-old starting pitcher is set to earn one of the largest pitching contracts in MLB history, and this may have a slight impact on those plans.

For now, Skubal will focus on recovering from his injury, and the Tigers hope to keep the ship turning without him.

READ MORE: MLB Insider shares update on Tarik Skubal’s future with Detroit Tigers

Austin Konensky is a writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and more. His work can also…more about Austin Konensky

everton And fulham Yet the Premier League could see the return of a familiar face, with Hugo Oliveira now being tipped for a future in England following his work at Famalicão.

the portuguese coach is building positive momentum In his first senior role. That progress did not go unnoticed in England, where he had previously worked in the coaching structures at both clubs, as well as Watford and Hull City.

There is a growing feeling that Oliveira has the tools to make the leap to the Premier League. And that scene is coming from nowhere.

Former Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic, who worked closely with Oliveira at Benfica, has strongly endorsed the 41-year-old’s potential.

Full support from Matic

Nemanja Matic doesn’t hold back when talking about Hugo Oliveira to Portuguese outlet game. The Serbian midfielder provided a detailed and personal account of the coach’s qualities, drawing inspiration from their time together as teammates and later as opponents.

“Our relationship has always been incredible. He is an excellent person, a very good professional and given his experiences I am not surprised he is doing such a good job.”He said.

“I’m really happy with the career he’s building. As a friend, it’s always good to be around him because he’s a very positive person. You never hear anything negative from him.”

Matic also highlighted how important Oliveira was at the beginning of his career, especially during his adaptation period in Portugal.

“When I was with him at Benfica, he helped me a lot to adapt. At that time, I didn’t speak Portuguese and he was a great support to me because he spoke English very well.”he explained.

“When I was a young player, he was very important in giving me advice on what I could improve in my game and what I could expect. He had a lot of experience, gave great advice and was a great support.”

Even after their time together ended, the relationship continued, including them facing each other in England.

“As rivals, we never stopped getting along.”

Matic also highlighted characteristics that go beyond coaching practices and tactics.

“In addition to his professionalism, he reads people very well and has all the capabilities to achieve great things.”

Hugo Oliveira’s trajectory points upward

Hugo Oliveira arrived in Famalicão in a difficult situation. At the time the club was struggling and expectations were limited.

However, results improved rapidly. The team is now pushing to make it to European competition, which would be a huge achievement for the club. This progress is an important part of the story unfolding in Portugal.

“In the beginning, when he arrived in Famalicão, it was not easy, given the situation he was in. But then the work he did became clear to everyone.”

Despite interest from other clubs, Oliveira recently had his contract renewed. This suggests stability for the time being, but also underlines how quickly his reputation is growing.

The return of the Premier League is already under discussion

Hugo Oliveira’s previous experiences at Everton and Fulham give this story a natural Premier League angle. He already understands the environment and demands of English football.

Matic believes a comeback is not only possible, but likely at some point.

“He worked with many coaches and now he is the main. I see him coaching in the Premier League, why not?”He said.

He’s got the ability, he’s a very intelligent guy and I’m not surprised by what he’s doing. “I’m not surprised and I really believe he’ll go far.”

Hugo Oliveira is obviously still early in his managerial career, but his work at Famalicão has made him one of the more interesting Portuguese coaches outside the traditional top clubs.

and for everton And fulhamThe connection is already there. That familiarity may be relevant if the opportunity arises.

For now, Oliveira continues to make his case in Portugal. If the results are good and interest increases then a move to England would not be too far.

Odell Beckham Jr. has not played in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins since the 2024 season; However, that has not been accomplished yet. The New York Giants have been linked to a reunion with Beckham following an April 20 visit. However, what is the latest update on the 2014 first-round pick’s possible return to New York? An NFL insider has released a big update.

It seems like something will happen between Beckham and the Giants at some point, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on the Pat McAfee Show. Schefter said there was a real possibility that Beckham would return to the Giants. The 33-year-old wide receiver spent the first five seasons of his career in New York.

What will Odell Beckham Jr. bring to the New York Giants

If Beckham were to sign with the Giants, he would join Malik Nabors, Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney and Malachi Fields in the wide receiver room. Beckham is past his prime years in the NFL, but he will still provide solid depth for New York and quarterback Jackson Dart. The last time Beckham had more than 600 receiving yards in a season was in 2019 with the Cleveland Browns.

Still, the free-agent wide receiver could boost a depth role for New York. Beckham would also be a good mentor and provide experienced leadership to a relatively young wide receiver room. After all, there are similarities between Beckham and Nabors, a third-year wide receiver coming off a torn ACL.

New York head coach John Harbaugh coached Beckham with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023, so he fully understands what he can bring to the table. Beckham may not be an elite wide receiver at this stage of his career, but he could give the Giants a great locker room presence.

It remains to be seen whether New York signs Beckham, but based on Schefter’s comments, it seems to be a very realistic possibility.

READ MORE: Report suggests New York Giants GM Joe Schoen could be fired soon

Austin Konensky is a writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and more. His work can also…more about Austin Konensky

After a 6-1 loss on Sunday, the Buffalo Sabers could be even stronger on Tuesday.

The Sabers have beaten the odds in their first-round playoff series against the Boston Bruins with a mix of momentum and growing injury concerns.

In Sunday’s decisive Game 4 victory, the Sabers recorded a dominant 6–1 victory.

However, the game came at a material cost. Forwards Tyson Kozak and Jason Zucker both left in the third period and did not return.

Head coach Lindy Ruff explained that the decision was precautionary. He said the team’s substantial lead allowed them to prioritize player health rather than pushing the injured duo back onto the ice.

“Just treat them and leave them in the dressing room, where the game was going on,” Ruff said after the game.

Additionally, forward Josh Norris missed his second consecutive game due to an undisclosed injury. Ruff confirmed that Norris remains day-to-day, a status that keeps him questionable for upcoming competitions.

current injury report

• Josh Norris, F (undeclared): Out April 21st. Missed Games 3 and 4 of the series; day to day.
• Sam Carrick, F (left wing): Out since March 31 after suffering an injury during a fight. Week-to-week and expected to miss the first round.

long term injuries

• Jiri Kulich, F (blood clot): Out November 1st. Originally projected to miss the season, he has resumed non-contact skating, but is still sidelined.
• Justin Danforth, F (lower body): Out since October 15 due to knee injury. Due to persistent pain after surgery, recovery is continued by skating intermittently.

These absences test the Sabres’ depth as they struggle for series control.

Despite some injuries, the Sabres’ resiliency has been surprising. They are relying on strong performance from goaltender Alex Lyons and emerging key contributors from rookie forward Noah Ostlund.

The series moved 3–1 in favor of the Sabers to Buffalo for Game 5. If home ice wasn’t enough to put the nail in Boston’s coffin, perhaps the return of Norris and avoiding the worst with Zucker and Kozak is.

James is the fully certified New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on SportsNote and … More about James Nicholls

Once again this season, chelsea Find yourself in the middle of chaos. The Blues will now be looking to make another dramatic decision for their managerial hot-seat.

It always seemed that the Stamford Bridge job was too big for Liam Rosenior. The decision to bring him to the club was taken very quickly, as the Englishman remained at the highest level for less than two years.

Despite knowing this, the Blues demanded immediate results from the British, falling into the trap of hiring project managers when they had no patience for them.

The idea of ​​bringing Antonio Conte back to Chelsea has been floated as they struggle to find a replacement.

Blues consider sensational comeback

IT migration market Note how the Italian finds himself in a precarious position at Napoli. While they are in line to qualify for the Champions League, Conte also has a goal for the Italian national team.

Furthermore, there are doubts whether his demands for restructuring of the team can be met by President Aurelio De Laurentiis. A meeting at the end of the season will decide everything.

According to the outlet, Chelsea have a ‘crazy idea’ to bring Conte back. This would be an attempt to take advantage of their situation and beat Italy to their signature.

The possibility is being seriously considered by the London club, who won the title under the 56-year-old in 2017.

Conte departed Chelsea in his usual dramatic fashion but a lot of water has passed under the bridge since then.

Our opinion: Conte isn’t a bad idea for Chelsea

While returns to former clubs don’t always work out in football, Antonio Conte’s move back to Chelsea isn’t a bad idea.

The Italian is adept at bringing instant results and winning instant silverware. While very demanding, Conte adds a tenacious patience to teams and this was evident at Napoli last season.

He is not a project manager like the individuals Chelsea tend to appoint and he will please many fans.

Paige has opened up about the unexpected series of events that led to her WWE return, revealing that Jelly Roll played a direct role in starting the negotiations and that Nick Khan laid out two non-negotiable conditions before any deal could go forward. Paige shared details during a new episode of What’s Your Story with Stephanie McMahon.

The road to returning to WWE began with a live recording of Jelly Roll’s Wife Bunny’s podcast, where Page was a guest along with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s agent Brad Slater. Jelly Roll used that moment to directly ask why WWE didn’t bring Paige back. That question set off a chain of events that led to a meeting with Nick Khan being arranged within 30 minutes of Jelly Roll calling.

She said, “I went and met him for about 10 minutes, great guy. I love him. Big fan of his. Very smart.” “He has a business mind. I thought I would be intimidated by him. But getting there, he’s comfortable. He says, ‘Two things – your neck has to be fine and we have to do a drug test.’ I said, ‘Fair enough.’ I said, ‘Hey, I can handle the drug testing.’

“I’m clean as a whistle. And so I was like, ‘I don’t know what my neck is like. It’s been a few years since I’ve had it checked. Last time I got it checked, it was perfect. So I’m not really worried about it.’ And so, next week I fly to Birmingham.

Given Paige’s history with the company, the personal significance of the drug testing situation was immense. During her first stint in WWE, she failed two drug tests and, by her own admission, was “a little messed up”. Stephanie McMahon said in the episode that there was genuine concern for Paige within WWE at the time, and when Paige first returned in 2017, Stephanie hugged her and said she was glad she was still alive. Paige is now eight years old.

Paige is getting medical clearance

The medical clearance side of the equation required a 10-hour appointment in Birmingham. Paige was medically disqualified from WWE in December 2017 after a match, which revealed the severity of her neck problems, leading to her forced retirement from the company. She later returned to in-ring competition in AEW in 2022, but receiving formal WWE medical clearance was a completely different process. When the results came out she was devastated.

“It was a few things. The fact that my neck was good,” Page said. “And the last time I was in WWE, my neck wasn’t right, and I had to retire. And I had to miss all the big things like the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, all these things I didn’t get a chance to be a part of, even though I was part of the group that helped ignite it, right? And it’s just the fact that I’m going to be OK.”

With both conditions met, Paige entered contract negotiations and was brought back in time for WrestleMania 42, where she teamed with Brie Bella to win the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles. Paige stepped in as a replacement for Nikki Bella, who suffered an ankle injury during WrestleMania.

On Tuesday night, San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama suffered an injury early in Game 2 of their series against the Portland Trail Blazers. Although if this were the NFL this would be terrible news for a return to Game 3, the NBA’s concussion protocols are a little different.

After an impressive win in the opening match of their quarterfinal series, Spurs’ chances of progressing to the semi-finals are no longer off the table. In the opening minutes of Game 2, Defensive Player of the Year and MVP contender Victor Wembanyama fumbled while driving to the basket. Although this is nothing out of the ordinary, in this incident he landed directly on his face, chin first.

Immediately, it looked like injury was possible as it took him a long time to regain his balance and get back to his feet. Unfortunately for the Spurs, he was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the game and placed in the NBA’s concussion protocol.

NFL fans are accustomed to concussion protocols, and there is no guarantee of a return to next Sunday’s game in that game. What would suggest Wembanyama returning to action in Games 3, 4 or 5 is now up in the air. However, NBA concussion protocols are a little different.

When is Victor Wembanyama most likely to return for Spurs

Both leagues’ codes of conduct for dealing with brain concussions begin with athletes having very little physical performance in the first 24 hours. However, in the NFL, players must go through four different phases where they must not show any symptoms for a 24-hour period before moving to the next phase. This is why this process often takes several days, and being ready for the game next week is no guarantee.

However, in the NBA, after 48 hours, if a player is not showing symptoms of an injury, they are gradually eased back into team activities. Still, as The Athletic’s Zack Harper noted Wednesday morning, Wembanyama still “must meet several standards in this ramp-up to playing again and then be cleared by both the team doctor and the league’s protocol director.” The process is less rigorous than that of the NFL.

So a comeback in Game 3 on Friday in Portland seems unlikely, but it can’t be completely ruled out. However, it seems appropriate for Vembanyama to return for Game 4 on Sunday. Still, on today’s edition of ESPN RiseNetwork NBA analyst Vincent Goodwill said the Spurs have always been a cautious organization. They probably take a very conservative approach with their long golden goose.

This means Spurs fans should be prepared for the possibility that their young superstar will miss the next two games of their series, and a return for Game 5 next Tuesday seems to be the most likely scenario.

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

Following their fourth consecutive loss on the season, the inevitable happened, and Billy Donovan’s tenure as head coach of the Chicago Bulls ended when he officially “resigned” from his position on Tuesday.

At the beginning of the week, it was still unclear whether Donovan would follow general manager Mark Eversley and executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas after they were fired by the Bulls earlier this month. There were also recent reports that the former Florida and Oklahoma City Thunder coach could gain even more influence in the organization.

However, Donovan would end his run with a 226–256 record and just one playoff trip in six seasons. So who could the Chicago Bulls make their next head coach? We present five possible options, including former head coach Tom Thibodeau.

taylor jenkins

Taylor Jenkins helped turn the Memphis Grizzlies into a consistent playoff contender in the Western Conference. However, his inability to manage Ja Morant and his on- and off-court issues played a role in his surprise exit at the end of last season.

The 41-year-old certainly deserves another chance as a head coach in the NBA and has shown he can develop talent. This is a must-have trait for the Bulls’ next coach. Jenkins will get some good pieces to start in Matas Bouzelis and Josh Giddy.

tom thibodeau

In the NBA, you have rarely seen a coach returning to a franchise after a breakup. But other than a few good seasons from Scott Skiles at the turn of the century, Tom Thibodeau is the only coach who has pushed the Bulls back into title contention since the Michael Jordan era.

Yes, his inability to reach the NBA Finals since being fired by Chicago in 2015 continues. But he showed with the New York Knicks that he still knows how to turn a program around and make them a consistent playoff contender. This is what the Bulls need right now. A strong, capable coach who has mastered the art of turning teams into very competitive units year after year.

Sam Cassel

Sam Cassel had a really good 15-year career as a player, winning three NBA championships. But since 2009, he has built a strong reputation as a top assist during several stops, including with the Los Angeles Clippers and currently the Boston Celtics.

For many years, he has been viewed as someone who is worthy of the head coaching job, and it is only a matter of time before a franchise finally gives him a chance. He should definitely be considered for Chicago.

Mika Nori

Another top assistant who has been linked to multiple head coaching jobs over the past few years is Minnesota Timberwolves assistant, Micah Nouri. He’s been learning on an NBA bench for 17 seasons and with five different teams. Of the various assistants in the game, there is none more prepared and respected than Nori.

chris quinn

Miami Heat assistant coach Chris Quinn is a man who is sure to get a top job soon. He has been with the organization for 12 years and is Erik Spoelstra’s top assistant. The Heat and their culture is one of the most respected in the game due to their potential. Quinn is one of the franchise’s greatest retainers and can bring to Chicago what has worked for him over the past decade.

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

Manchester City Defender Vitor Reis has made it clear he wants to return to the Etihad after using his Verona loan to become a regular at the senior level.

The 20-year-old centre-back has become a pillar in LaLiga this season, and his recent Brazil call-up only adds to the feeling that his development is accelerating.

The Brazilian has made 27 league appearances, starting in 26 starts. This consistency reflects his importance at Verona, where he has established himself as a reliable presence in defense as he adapts to European football. he is already in spain Viewed as an “elite” prospect.

In an extensive interview with the Brazilian outlet globo esporteVitor Reis opens up about his journey so far, from his early days at Manchester City to his current position in Spain and his ambitions for the future.

“I intend to return to Manchester City”

Vitor Reis did not hide his long-term goals when discussing his future.

“My intention, my desire is to return to Manchester City, play and get a place. But, as I always say, I will focus on the day-to-day at this end of the season, so that when the time comes for negotiations, we can sit down calmly with a clear mind.” He said.

that attitude Fits with Manchester City’s plans. The club sent him to Verona to gain minutes and the move worked as intended. The defender himself admitted that the decision initially surprised him.

“When I found out they were thinking about loaning me out, I was a little shocked, because it wasn’t something that came to my mind. But when I understood it better and talked to a lot of people, I realized it would be good for me, especially for minutes, to play more games. At my age, I need to play.”

he adds: “So I think coming here was a very important decision, 100% right. Here in Verona I am very happy. The people are incredible, and I believe it was a very good choice.”

Reality check at Manchester City

Vitor Reus also reflected on his first experiences after joining Manchester City from Palmeiras in a deal worth around £32m (€40m).

“The city was also a very beautiful story of my life. When I arrived there, it was a kind of reality check, like what happened with the national team. You arrive and see the players around you. I remember seeing my name next to people like Rodri, Bernardo Silva… and that made me very happy.”

He highlighted the environment and demands of the club.

“This is a club that always tries to get the most out of the players, and that helped me a lot. I learned a lot of things with Pep, who is a real guy in terms of mentality and understanding of the game.”

There has been an ongoing link up with Manchester City during his loan spell.

“I keep in touch with the city director [Hugo Viana]. I talk a lot with Citigroup employees, they are often here in Verona too. For me that contact with them, that care is very important, and I am very glad that they are close, always trying to see and understand everything that is happening here.

learning from guardiola

The Brazilian describes his early conversations with Pep Guardiola and how he shaped his development. It’s worth remembering The Spaniard himself reassured Vitor Reis To join Manchester City.

“When you arrive there and see Pep Guardiola, you feel that fear, that different sensation. But the first day, when I was presented at the training center, I already had contact with him. We were there with my family, my agent… and when he arrived, everyone was very happy, even more than me.”

he adds: “After that, I went to his office, we talked quickly, and that already made me feel more comfortable, more welcomed.”

The learning process continued on the pitch.

“That first contact was very important. Then, day-to-day, in training, he talked to me too and I learned a lot from him, especially how to understand the game, how to make things easier on the pitch.”

“He is a very intelligent person. If you do what he says, your game is better. And besides, he has a hunger to win which is unreal. Even after winning everything, he is still on the touchline with the same intensity, wanting to win, guiding everyone. It is a big difference.”

“Working with him was a dream, and, God willing, I hope I can come back and experience it again.”

Brazil call-up and 3am surprise

His recent Brazil call-up came in unexpected fashion, As we recently coveredFurther underlining how quickly his profile is rising. This time he has shared that story in his own words.

“It was early in the morning, around 1:30 or 2 am. I was sleeping with my wife, and they tried to call me. Because my phone is on night mode, they started calling my wife’s phone.”

“We heard a noise, woke up, I saw it was my agent calling, picked up the phone and answered. He said: ‘Are you ready? We’re going to the national team.’ At that moment, I couldn’t believe it. I said: ‘Which national team?’ You are lying, you are kidding me…”

“But as soon as I woke up properly, I realized it was true. Then it was just happiness.”

He admitted that time has made it even more surprising.

“It was definitely a surprise, especially because of the moment when it happened. The call-up had already been announced after the match, and I didn’t expect it anymore.”

“And also because it’s the Brazilian national team. It’s always been a dream to be there. To be called up, to be with players you’ve always dreamed of playing with, is very gratifying.”

Facing the elite and moving forward faster

Vitor Reis also pointed to key moments in Spain that have accelerated his development, including facing Real Madrid’s attack.

“It is not easy to deal with Vinicius Junior, Mbappé and Bellingham in attack. This is a game that requires maximum concentration. Our team was very competitive, and I am very happy with everyone’s attitude and the positive result.”

“We knew the size of the challenge and prepared a lot for that game. Getting a positive result against Real Madrid gives confidence and shows we are on the right track.”

he also had “Royal” demonstration against Barcelona In this weather. The defender also stressed his mentality when discussing bigger ambitions, including the World Cup.

“I’m very calm. I always say I’m trying to do what I can control, which is day-to-day, matches, everything within my reach. The future belongs to God.”

“If it has to happen now, that’s how it will happen. I’ll keep working and stay focused. It’s about doing what I can control and leaving the decisions to the people who have to make them.”

he adds: “Sometimes it seems impossible, okay? You look and see that it is very difficult. But the call-up also seemed difficult and I got called up. It shows that you can’t stop dreaming.”

“My dream is to play in the World Cup, which is the biggest competition there for me. It’s the biggest dream of my life, as I believe it is for all players.”

“I also dream of winning the Champions League, which is the biggest club competition in the world. These are my dreams.”

What’s next for Vitor Reis?

Vitor Reis’s trajectory is now clearly felt In line with Manchester City’s long-term plan. He gained the necessary minutes, established himself as a starter and began to attract international attention.

With hopes of a return to the Etihad following his loan spell, the defender is preparing himself to compete for a place. His performances in Spain, coupled with his mentality and ambition, suggest that Manchester City will soon have a more complete player back in their squad.

Tottenham HotspurLuka Vuckovic has been struggling with injury at Hamburg SV this month.

Last summer, the Premier League team let him join Hamburg on loan and the centre-back impressed for them.

Since returning from the last international break, the defender started in a 1–1 draw against FC Augsburg on 4 April.

The Croatian international has since been on the sidelines with a knee injury and has missed two matches, during which the German club has conceded seven goals.

In their last 11 matches they have conceded only 11 goals. This gives an idea of ​​his importance in Hamburg.

On Monday, Sports Witness Covered claims from Germany That his knee is damaged, and his setback is much worse than initially expected.

The Tottenham man will return on May 10

sports news Take a look at these claims and immediately dismiss any concerns of a serious injury to Luka Vuckovic.

The Spurs man has suffered no new setbacks during the recovery process which is going according to plan. He suffered an injury during training and tests revealed a ‘minor ligament sprain’.

Hamburg have held talks with Tottenham Hotspur and during these discussions, both clubs agreed that he would miss three to four matches.

Sportske Novosti is not sure when he will make a full recovery. He is expected to miss the next two matches and will return on May 10 against SC Freiburg.

Spurs medical staff decision maker

Hamburger AbendblattA local newspaper of the German club has also pointed to the role of Tottenham Hotspur in arranging the return of Luka Vuckovic.

Hamburg are looking forward to the Croatian’s return against Hoffenheim this weekend. The decision will not depend only on him because Roberto De Zerbi’s side has a big authority.

As part of the loan deal, Spurs inserted a clause to decide when the 18-year-old would return in the event of injury.

The Tottenham medical staff, along with their German counterparts, are examining the latest MRI scan results. Vuckovic can return to the pitch only after getting the green signal from the Premier League.

We believe: The Tottenham clause makes sense

After this season, Luka Vuckovic will return to the north London club, where he is under contract until 2030.

Spurs want to ensure the player is not rushed back. If the English club refuses to sanction, it would be understandable as it would allow them to protect their assets to avoid aggravating the injury.

tottenham hotspur Luka Vuckovic has enjoyed good performances since joining Hamburg SV on loan last summer.

The centre-back has been an integral part of their back line this season and has been one of their standout players.

His form has already attracted the attention of the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich, raising question marks over his Tottenham future.

The Croatia international has played 27 matches for the Bundesliga team and even scored five goals and contributed one assist.

His Bundesliga statistics are as follows:

• Appearances: 25
• Interceptions per game: 1.2
• Tackles per game: 0.8
• Balls recovered per game: 4.4
• Clearance per game: 9.1
• Duels won per game: 7.6

He appeared once since the last international break and has been on the sidelines since then.

Last Wednesday, Hamburg Manager Marilyn Polzin said He received intensive treatment for a knee injury.

Two days later, witness the game Covered claims from Germany That the defender did not train last week. Despite this, Polzin wanted to risk him for the derby against Werder Bremen.

Update on Tottenham player’s injury

Luka Vuckovic traveled with the team but did not feature in Hamburg’s 3-1 defeat to Werder Bremen on Saturday.

image Now report that his condition is worrying as the Tottenham Hotspur man’s injury is ‘much worse’ than initially anticipated.

The 19-year-old’s joint is ‘much more damaged than before’ and hence, he is likely to miss the clash against TSG Hoffenheim on April 25.

In fact, the Spurs-owned player has not been training with the rest of the team since April 7.

His absence is a big blow for the German club, who have scored 13 goals in the last 11 matches they have played. In his absence, they have conceded seven goals in the last two matches.

The newspaper makes no mention or indication of when the defender will return to action.

What’s next for Vuckovic and Tottenham?

Roberto De Zerbi’s team and their medical staff will keep a close eye on Luka Vuckovic’s injury situation.

As things stand, the player will have to return to the North London club after this season and the player has already indicated This recently. After this, Tottenham will have to decide on his future in the summer.

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin’s work may not be done yet. The 40-year-old hinted at a possible comeback on Thursday’s media breakdown day.

The NHL’s all-time leading goal-scorer is still deciding whether to return for his 22nd season. Ovechkin currently has 929 career goals in 1,573 games.

“Honestly, I’m pretty sure this isn’t my last game,” Ovechkin said. “I hope this isn’t my last game against Columbus. How I said, I have to make a decision, see where we are.”

Ovechkin said he would make a decision about his future in the offseason after talking to family and friends. He is yet to talk to the Capitals coaching staff and management.

Ovechkin also joked that general manager Chris Patrick wanted to sign him for two more years. The Great 8, meanwhile, wants the Capitals to compete again.

“First of all, we have to make the playoffs and we have to fight for the Cup,” Ovechkin said. “That’s probably the biggest thing.”

The Great 8’s decision will also depend on their health and family. He also said that his sons Ilya and Sergei want him to play again.

“They keep asking. I say we’ll see,” Ovechkin said, smiling. “They’re excited. They want me to come back because they love the city, love the team, love the guys.”

Ovechkin is set to become a free agent this offseason, although he does not plan to sign with another team. Another possibility is that the 40-year-old Russian returns to the KHL, where he played with Moscow Dynamo.

In his 21st season, Ovechkin recorded 32 goals and 32 assists for 64 points in 82 games. Despite straining his hamstring early on, he was able to play all 82 games for the first time since 2017–18.

Harry Lichtman is an award-winning journalist who covers the Washington Capitals for SportsNut. He also contributes to the sites… More about Harry Lichtman

Bayer Leverkusen’s Ibrahim Maza is back Manchester CityTransfer agenda for the summer.

The Premier League side’s interest in the 20-year-old is not new and they had already kept an eye on him last year.

In April 2025, Sport Witness Covered claims from Germany There was interest from Manchester City, but the move never took shape last summer.

At the time, he was at Hertha Berlin and Bayer Leverkusen were able to beat the Citizens and others to his signature.

The attacking midfielder has scored five goals and provided six assists in 38 games so far this season.

His Bundesliga statistics this season are as follows:

• Appearances: 23
• Start: 15
• Total minutes: 1,443
• Minutes per game: 61
• Target: 3
• Assist: 3
• Expected target: 3.34
• Expected Support: 3.68
• Big chances created: 8
• Big chances missed: 4

return of manchester city player

Pep Guardiola’s side are now rekindling their interest in the Germany-born Algeria international ahead of the next window.

is according to Desire Sport Plus In Algeria, who took to Instagram to cover a short report on Manchester City’s desire to bring him to the Etihad.

They say it’s a ‘shock for City’ as Ibrahim Maza is on the Premier League team’s radar for the summer.

Without mentioning details of Manchester City’s offer, the Bundesliga side ‘rejected the offer’. However, they have made it clear that the player is ‘not for sale at any price’ and demand €70m.

That’s all the report says, without mentioning or indicating whether Guardiola’s side intend to return with an improved bid of €70m.

4-4-2 Riley claimed elsewhere that Bayer Leverkusen rejected Manchester City’s initial interest, not the young player’s offer, and demanded €70m.

The German club have already rejected a €35m bid from Atletico Madrid, presumably in the winter market.

Our opinion: Manchester City unlikely to pay €70 million

The Premier League side may have contacted Bayer Leverkusen to register their interest.

It is not possible for them to submit any proposal and if that were the case, the UK and German media would have many reports on it.

Even if Manchester City are keen, they are not allowed to spend €70 million on a player who has not played a full season at the top level.

Ibrahim Maza’s contract is till 2030 and his value, as per transfer marketIs €40m.

Jonathan Rowe’s performance against Aston Villa this week has sparked interest in the Premier League, including the Villans.

gazzetta dello sport And Corriere di Bologna cover the 22-year-old today. It seems that his performances despite the Bologna defeat have convinced some that he is the real player.

bologna is crazy about him

Gazzetta reports that Bologna have gone crazy over Jonathan Rowe since his arrival from Marseille last summer. Since then he has scored seven goals and four assists in 35 games.

His latest impressive performance came against Aston Villa in the Europa League this week. And the paper says demonstrations will be ‘a prelude to rumours’ now and throughout the summer.

This fact will help them Rowe has admitted that this is a dream of hers. Have to play in the Premier League sooner or later. The Premier League is also taking notice.

According to the newspaper, three clubs sent scouts to the Aston Villa match. They were also looking at Santiago Castro, but Rowe stole all the attention and the spotlight.

Bologna believes they have a diamond in their hands. They value him. They valued him at €45m after paying €19.5m last summer. The Italian side has no intention of selling cheap.

Aston Villa are also keen

Corriere di Bologna also reported that his performance against Aston Villa had ‘awakened the Premier League transfer market’.

According to his information, Via TuttoBolognaWebAston Villa could be eyeing him as a replacement for Morgan Rodgers.

The newspaper suggests Rodgers could join Arsenal this summer on a deal worth €80 million. If that happens, Villa will have the resources to capture Jonathan Rowe and stay within financial fair play rules.

However, they also add that Bologna have been warned that other English teams will approach them this summer after Rowe’s performances. The Italian side are struggling to retain possession of their star player.

armory The European giants were in attendance when FC Porto drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest on Thursday and the Gunners will have a number of names worth keeping an eye on.

Two historic clubs came together in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals, but Porto posed the greater offensive threat for long periods. This gave Arsenal’s scouts a strong look at players working under pressure and with real intensity in the game.

portuguese outlet game And to ball Both reports Arsenal were present at the Estadio do Dragão along with clubs such as Barcelona, ​​PSG, Chelsea and Newcastle. From Arsenal’s point of view, the attention naturally turns to those who lined out in Porto’s attacking structure.

Gabry Veiga sets the pace

Gabriel Veiga was arguably the most influential player on the pitch before his replacement. The 23-year-old set Porto’s attacking rhythm and repeatedly found space between Nottingham Forest’s lines.

He provided the assist for William Gomes’ goal after a quick collective move. Additionally, Veiga completed 26 of 29 passes and created two clear chances. His work with the ball was also excellent, with four recoveries and an interception.

For Arsenal, that mix of technical quality and intensity will not go unnoticed. they were already attached to themBut Veiga now looks even more comfortable operating in tight spaces and making quick decisions in the final third.

Gomes presents again – Gul offers different profile

William Gomes continued its rise With another decisive contribution. He is a direct, productive winger whose end product is always in demand at the top level.

The 20-year-old winger scored the opener for Porto and remains a constant threat, especially when coming inside from the right side.

He made three shots, two successful dribbles and won six duels. His recent form further strengthens his performance. Gomes now has four goals in his last five games, taking his tally for the season to 13, second only to Samu on Porto’s team.

Meanwhile, Deniz Gul came off the bench and offered a more physical presence up front. The 21-year-old striker showed good intent, scoring a dangerous effort and competing well before fading late on.

His profile could be particularly relevant to Arsenal’s ongoing search for a young striker option to support Victor Gyöckeres. Gul is still developing, but his energy and dynamism were evident.

Other notes from the game

Sékou Fofana impressed with his ability to carry the ball in transition Leeds reported to have targeted Zaidou Sanusi Width provided from left side. Both put in solid performances, although they are less directly linked to Arsenal’s current priorities.

For Nottingham Forest, Stefan Ortega played a key role in keeping the scores level. His defending ensured that Arsenal’s scouts saw a competitive contest despite Porto’s offensive dominance.

Additionally, Jakub Kivior was also there, but the former Arsenal defender remained on the bench.

scouting output

Gabry Veiga and William Gomes were standout attacking performers, while Deniz Gul offered glimpses of a different option. After this performance, all three will probably remain on Arsenal’s radar.

The Gunners continue to assess a number of profiles across Europe, and this trip to Porto has provided useful live insight. This is unlikely to be conclusive in itself, but it adds another layer to the ongoing recruitment work.

In a sudden turn of events, Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov has been assigned to the Chicago Wolves for a conditioning stint following season-ending hip surgery following the NHL’s Christmas break.

With the Grand Rapids returning to play Friday against the Griffins, it puts a new potential element into the Hurricanes’ goaltending for the postseason.

Under the current CBA, LTIR conditioning loans to the AHL can last a maximum of three games and/or six days, although an additional two games can be requested if needed.

On Sunday, Kochetkov returned to the ice with the Hurricanes, participating in partial drills and taking shots from his teammates. It wasn’t a perfect practice, but it was ‘a step in the right direction’, as head coach Rod Brind’Amour said.

The Hurricanes netminder expressed his feelings about returning to the ice, saying that he had a difficult time during the recovery process, but he was very happy to be able to be with the team and participate in practices.

After it was announced that he would not participate in the remainder of the season, it was speculated that he would not be seen on the ice until the following September. However, in January, his agent first predicted a quick return, mentioning that he could be available for the playoffs if his recovery went well.

Pyotr Kochetkov could be a game-changer for the Hurricanes in the playoffs

This season, Kochetkov has played only eight games in the NHL. However, six of those games were wins, including one shutout. Meanwhile, Frederik Anderson has played 34 matches and Brandon Bussy has played 37 matches.

If the Hurricanes can reacquire Kochetkov for the postseason, they will have three NHL-level goaltenders, one of whom has been notably rested due to a lack of ice time this season. It will be an advantage for the Hurricanes that no other Stanley Cup contending team is going to the playoffs.

Additionally, playing style versatility is another boon for the Hurricanes.

Kochetkov utilizes a highly athletic, acrobatic style with the ability to switch between a calm, careful approach and a frantic, completely reactionary response with the speed of a back-and-forth. The unpredictable (and even physical) nature of his style catches skaters off guard.

Anderson, meanwhile, plays a quiet position-up style that uses size and technique to take up space from oncoming shooters. He also has a particularly strong glove hand to help when the normally slow positioning method might fail.

As for Bussey, his approach focuses more on the traditional butterfly style with a focus on strong proficiency in fundamentals with occasional athletic play. His play is a happy medium between Kochetkov and Andersen.

If the Hurricanes can reacquire a strong and confident Kochetkov, it could make a huge difference through the playoffs.

Rachel Barkley is a beat writer covering the Carolina Hurricanes for Carolina Hockey Now on SportsNote. Painting Stories…More About Rachel Barclay

According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, WWE has gone back to the drawing board on parts of its SmackDown creative after negative reaction to Pat McAfee’s involvement in the Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton storyline. The changes have been made in real time, with the company reevaluating its direction for the storyline, while McAfee is confirmed for this week’s SmackDown in San Jose.

The report states that additional outside partnerships were discussed as part of the original plans, including celebrity names like Jelly Roll, but those ideas are now part of a broader rethink currently underway. WWE is said to be actively assessing any possibilities for how the storyline progresses leading up to WrestleMania 42.

One of the more telling things about the report is how quickly the change happened. Sources told Fightful that CM Punk’s comments on Monday’s Raw reflected the new creative direction and were not part of the plan for Friday, when McAfee was revealed as Orton’s ally on SmackDown.

That timeline shows that WWE creative has been operating in reactive mode all week, adjusting to audience reaction and recalibrating on the fly rather than executing a lock-in plan.

With less than two weeks to go until WrestleMania 42 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on April 18 and 19, the speed at which WWE is ready to move forward with its plans for one of the event’s premier matches is remarkable. Rhodes defends the Undisputed WWE Championship against Orton on the card, and how the storyline resolves between now and then will be significantly shaped by whatever direction SmackDown takes this week.

It has been reported that the idea of ​​bringing Pat McAfee back to the company and teaming up with Orton came from TKO, possibly also from TKO President Ari Emanuel. This was not part of what WWE creative had originally planned for the feud.

While Giannis Antetokounmpo is suggesting that his competitive fire is why he wants to return to the floor despite resistance from the Milwaukee Bucks, it seems like that may not be the real reason.

Drama has surrounded the Bucks for much of this season as trade rumors involving Antetokounmpo have never subsided as the team has been lackluster on the floor. Most people believed that things would calm down after he was not moved before the NBA trade deadline. Still this has not happened.

The situation has actually gotten worse as the Bucks look to find their way to a better selection in June’s NBA Draft. To make the best strategy, it would be best if Antetokounmpo sat out for the remainder of the season. This would be possible as he has battled illnesses throughout the season and suffered a severe left knee strain on March 15.

However, to the displeasure of the Bucks management, Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to get back on the field. His desire to compete and the team’s preference to sit him conflicted and led to an investigation by the NBA.

“Antetokounmpo rejected the Bucks’ request to shut down and told the team he planned to return when he felt healthy enough to play,” ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Tuesday. “On March 17, multiple sources said he pressed to play against the Jazz and told the team he believed he was healthy.

“The Bucks ruled him out, and their medical staff did not clear him to play. Antetokounmpo then told several people on the team that he expected to play later on the road trip (March 21 at Phoenix, March 23 at Los Angeles, March 25 at Portland), but he never returned to action.”

Did Giannis Antetokounmpo want to return to the Bucks because of Nike endorsement money?

Since then things have been at a standstill. While he is trying to get back on the court for their home final on Friday and is looking forward to being on the court with his brothers, Thanasis and Alex, maybe that is why he is not so eager to get back on the court.

Charania reports, “Multiple sources said the Bucks’ decision to bench Antetokounmpo earned him a significant bonus in his Nike endorsement contract, which would have been triggered if he played at least 41 games.”

It’s unclear how much he lost, but it wouldn’t be surprising if it was more than six figures. Considering how much he has struggled to stay healthy this season, it would make sense for him to simply sit out and help get Milwaukee into a better draft position. But perhaps a big payday has led Antetokounmpo to clash with team officials over a return this season.

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

New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence fueled NFL trade rumors on Monday when the three-time Pro Bowl selection requested a transfer from the team. As he and the Giants try to resolve their differences, NFL teams around the league are speculating what a deal could look like for the All-Pro defensive lineman.

ESPN’s Giants reporter Jordan Raanan reported Tuesday that the consensus he had received from sources around the league was that New York’s potential return in a Lawrence trade would be a late first-round pick or an early second-round pick.

RELATED: Best Dexter Lawrence Trade Landing Spots

“He’s super, super important. He’s a cornerstone football player — not really a cornerstone, like a middle stone. He’s right in the middle. He’s a huge stone, and he’s very active, athletic.”

New York Giants HC John Harbaugh on Dexter Lawrence in March (h/t ESPN)

While New York is one of the deepest teams in the NFL, it’s a much different story internally. If Lawrence were traded, the team would rely on players like Darius Alexander and Roy Robertson-Harris to play a significant percentage of the snaps. This would be a huge blow defensively.

That’s not even to mention the fact that this would create a new need that has to be addressed in the 2026 NFL Draft. New York doesn’t have a ton of draft capital for starters, having only two top-100 selections along with four of the first 150 selections. With the club already having to address the linebackers, wide receivers, cornerbacks and offensive line, trading Lawrence would mean creating a void somewhere that can’t be adequately filled.

To make matters worse, the 2026 NFL Draft class is not particularly strong. A late first-round pick this year could have been a second-day pick last year, and the talent pool in the 25-45 range is largely the same. On a purely return basis, New York almost certainly won’t be able to come close to Lawrence’s impact.

The best option for the Giants is to resolve this contract dispute with Lawrence, finding terms that will work for him on a long-term deal. Given that the team has a starting quarterback, wide receiver and two edge rushers who are still playing on rookie-level contracts, they also have the financial flexibility to give Lawrence both a pay raise and more guaranteed money.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

Eintracht can be without Frankfurt nottingham forestArnaud Kalimuendo is out this season.

Last season, the striker performed brilliantly for Stade Rennais, scoring 18 goals and four assists in 34 appearances. This may have convinced Nottingham Forest to invest £26 million [€29.8m] To bring him to the City Ground in August 2025.

However, the Frenchman failed to replicate his Stade Rennais form at Nottingham Forest as he did not score or assist in nine Premier League matches. He scored only two goals in the Europa League.

Because of his struggles and limited play [392 minutes from 14 matches]The Reds allowed him to join the Bundesliga side on loan in January. The move has helped him enjoy regular games so far.

His Bundesliga statistics are as follows:

• Appearances: 13
• Start: 11
• Total minutes: 939
• Minutes per game: 72
• Target: 5
• Help: 1

Back in January, The 24 year old was unsure Will the German club activate the purchase option.

On 24 February, Khel Witness Covered claims from Germany That Eintracht Frankfurt had negotiated personal terms with him. This is for a contract until 2031 which is worth €3 million per year. It can be effective only if they are able to buy it.

Striker set for Nottingham Forest return

image Now cover the latest on Eintracht Frankfurt’s chances of retaining Arnaud Kalimuendo after this season.

Considering his performance so far, it wouldn’t be a surprise if his stay is extended. However, the €27 million provision is a ‘major financial hurdle for the German club and is at risk of becoming unaffordable.’

They are seventh in the table, 10 points behind sixth-place Bayer Leverkusen, and, in a best-case scenario, could qualify for the UEFA Conference League.

The lack of Champions League/Europa League will impact their finances. In addition, the Bundesliga side will have to raise funds. These factors make the permanent signing of a player difficult for Nottingham Forest ownership.

In short, Kalimuendo’s future in Germany is ‘seriously at risk’ and there is a risk of losing him to Eintracht Frankfurt after this season.

They will make a final decision at the end of the season, but indications are that he will not extend his stay.

What’s next for the striker and Nottingham Forest?

Arnaud Kalimuendo is set to return to the Premier League team if Eintracht Frankfurt do not invoke his €27m clause.

Nottingham Forest loan manager Owen Coyle Jr recently said that a decision is yet to be made on his future. This includes the possibility of Vitor Pereira including him in his plans next season.

“Calimuendo has done really well. He went out there, he’s performing well, he’s scoring goals. But he still has a very positive relationship with Forest. He talks to other players regularly. He’s already been back to watch a few games,” He said.

With this in mind, Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director Markus Kroesch’s decision to reduce the €27m clause remains questionable. In short, the Reds will make no concessions.

The player’s contract with the Reds is until 2030, and transfer market He is worth €30 million.

Nottingham Forest are quickly building up the layers as they prepare for their Europa League quarter-final against FC Porto. The latest developments have further increased the challenge they face.

Vitor Pereira’s side already know they will face Strong atmosphere in Portugal For the first phase. even Nuno Espirito Santo attended On the creation of this tie. Now, they are also set to face off against a Porto team boosted by the return of key players at a crucial moment.

Main returns before forest conflict

according to gamePorto received encouraging news on the injury front this week. Rodrigo Mora has accelerated his recovery from a muscle problem. Despite some limitations, he is now back in integrated training.

He is expected to be available for the upcoming fixtures, including the clash with Nottingham Forest.

The young winger is seen as one of Porto’s most creative options, and his availability increases Francesco Farioli’s flexibility in midfield selection.

At the same time, there is clarity regarding star goalkeeper Diogo Costa. He is suffering from an adductor problem, which has forced him to withdraw from Portugal’s recent international matches. However, the goalkeeper is now expected to be fit in time to face Nottingham Forest.

Their presence is important. The Porto captain has already registered 22 clean sheets in all competitions this season. In the league alone, he is chasing his 19th shutout. It’s a mark that would match Iker Casillas’ 2016/17 campaign.

For Forest, this points to a difficult attacking task. Porto will likely have both their first-choice goalkeeper and a key creative option in the squad for the first leg.

“Blue Sea” is ready to sail again

There is activity off the pitch too, and this reinforces the scale of the occasion.

according to to ballPorto supporters have already sold their entire ticket allocation for the second leg at the City Ground on 16 April. The travel section will be packed. This would ensure a strong Portuguese presence in Nottingham.

Porto fans too Filled your allocation for the last meeting between the sides in the league stage, when the “Blue Sea” was described as “flooding Nottingham”.

This consistency highlights just how active Porto’s support has been throughout this European run.

Buildings required for Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest are heading towards a tie with the intensity increasing from every angle.

On the pitch, Porto is regaining key players at the right time. Furthermore, their supporters continue to travel in large numbers, alternating both legs in high-pressure environments.

Forest have already shown resilience in this competition. However, this tie now presents a different kind of test – one shaped by a clear understanding of the quality, experience and pace of their opponents.

With both teams close to full strength and the stands already full in both countries, everything points to a quarter-final that will demand control, composure and sharp execution from Nottingham Forest.

Some new details have emerged on why Chris Jericho was rumored to be returning to WWE and why he returned to AEW on Wednesday night.

For months, rumors and reports have been swirling that the wrestling legend’s tenure in AEW was coming to an end, and that he would likely be heading back to the company that made him a household name, WWE. However, this past week, things changed as he remained on AEW’s roster page and filed a trademark for the term “Cornerstone”. A potential moniker that would seem to be a better fit in All Elite Wrestling.

This led to speculation that he would indeed remain at the company he signed with in 2019. The rumors became reality when Jericho made his grand return to AEW Dynamite on Wednesday in the city where he grew up, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

On Thursday morning, fans of both companies got some new information as to why the 55-year-old may have opted to go back to AEW instead of returning to WWE.

Is Chris Jericho still close to retirement?

“I know I was told so [WWE] “They wanted to take him on a retirement tour,” reported Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer. “And maybe he didn’t want to, but I don’t know… With AEW, maybe he was going to have more longevity.” There are a lot of benefits for AEW and there is always money.

“AEW is a little riskier in that sense… He’ll probably have more input than he does in WWE about what he’s going to do in AEW, but I think he’ll have a better audience in WWE. Better audience, that’s definitely part of the deal, but money is part of the deal.”

Meltzer said that after recent speculation that Jericho could return at WrestleMania 42, a source informed him that he will be in Winnipeg this week for Dynamite. When he then reached out to a WWE source, he revealed that initially it seemed like he would return, but as of this week, it is no longer in the cards.

If WWE had been firm about doing a retirement tour, possibly for a year, it could have been a deal breaker as he just feels like he’s not ready to hang up his boots yet. And AEW is probably more willing to let him wrestle because he’s close to 60 years old.

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

Jack Harrison’s move to Fiorentina on loan from Leeds United in January was seen as a big opportunity for the player. Things have gone quite wrong since then, with the player failing to impress.

sports witness The deal was largely covered as La Viola were in desperate need of a new attacking player during their battle with relegation.

While there was a bright spot at the start of the Englishman’s tenure, he has struggled since then. He has started four games and came off the bench twice. Despite the confidence shown by Paolo Vanoli, he has not impacted Fiorentina’s games as much as expected.

Florence club has the option to buy the Leeds United player €7m and it is unlikely it will be used.

Confidence about Elland Road return

corriere dello sport Reports on Fiorentina’s summer deal, it appears certain that Manor Solomon will be signed permanently from Tottenham. Even though he has faced fitness problems, there is no doubt about his abilities.

There is now very little chance of a permanent deal for Jack Harrison. Even though La Viola won’t cost Leeds United much, the 29-year-old hasn’t performed well enough in the past few weeks. Fabio Paratici, who was key in bringing him to Florence, has also not been impressed with his performance.

Furthermore, from Fiorentina’s perspective Harrison is costing a significant sum for the second half of the season. His performance does not justify that salary.

Now, only a major change of heart from Fiorentina could increase the Englishman’s chances of staying in Italy. The newspaper is confident he will return to Leeds United at the end of the campaign.

Our opinion: Leeds should find a lover in England

It wouldn’t be a surprise if Harrison contributes some goals for Fiorentina, mainly because he will likely play a few games. This would not guarantee his stay in Florence.

That’s why Leeds United should already start looking for new clubs for the player. Harrison may still have a market in England due to how well he performed under Marcelo Bielsa. Furthermore, English clubs would also be in a position to pay more for the player.

Harrison’s playing style has always relied heavily on distance passing and running. This is why he proved so successful under Bielsa. Those qualities are more valued in England than in Italy, where players are expected to be more technical and creative than physically strong.

Earlier this week, future Hall of Famer and New England Patriots icon Tom Brady revealed in an interview with CNBC that he had recently seriously considered returning to the field. However, the 15-time Pro Bowler also revealed that the NFL “didn’t like the idea very much.”

It wasn’t because they didn’t want to see the 48-year-old make a spectacular return to the NFL. This was because he wanted to do so and retain his minority ownership in the Las Vegas Raiders. Which is a big no-no. Still, he clearly has a desire to play, and that’s probably why he was the driving force behind creating the Fanatics Flag Football Classic this year.

But for a man who ruined his marriage just to play one more season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it may not be enough. Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio added to that thought on Sunday. He wrote, “Still got the itch. He can still play. He’ll be better right now than some of the players who are going to be starters in 2026.”

“Will the itch go away? Possibly. If not, selling his stake back to Mark Davis could be an easier path out of a situation in which his role doesn’t match the franchise’s expectations.”

On the outside chance that Tom Brady surprisingly gives up his stake in the Raiders for another season in the league, let’s take a look at five teams he would be willing to play for.

las vegas raiders

Obviously, the most likely option would be to suit up for the team he was signed to. Las Vegas was rumored to be a landing spot when he left New England several years ago, and he clearly has a bond with majority owner Mark Davis. While the Raiders are no closer to a title contender, Brady would have unheard of power as their starting QB.

This would be a dream scenario for the franchise. They’ll be getting a year from, arguably, the greatest QB ever, and they’re projected to have No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza learn from him for a season.

pittsburgh steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are playoff contenders, but they haven’t had a true Pro Bowl-level QB since the days of Ben Roethlisberger. That’s why they’ve learned about Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers over the last two years. There is a real possibility that Brady could perform worse than the two future Hall of Famers. Or, he could be better, and it could be enough to lead Pittsburgh to the AFC Championship.

indianapolis colts

The Indianapolis Colts have a mixup at the QB1 spot. Daniel Jones was great for most of the 2025 season before he broke a bone in his foot and then tore his Achilles. They are now forced to hope that he can return sooner than expected because they could not find a better player in free agency or the draft. However, Brady could have if he was available.

The Colts looked like a Super Bowl contender before Jones got injured. And Philip Rivers walked off the street at 44 and looked good at times because of the weapons he had. At 48 years old, Brady can help Indy reach the playoffs and advance.

carolina panthers

The Carolina Panthers also have a very tough situation at the QB1 spot as this is a make or break year for former No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young. However, if Tom Brady were available, Carolina would take advantage of the opportunity and make every impact he can if it helps them win some games in the playoffs next year.

atlanta falcons

Despite having a messy QB situation in 2025, the Atlanta Falcons are still 8-9. Same record as the division champion Panthers. With weapons like Bijan Robinson and Drake London, adding Brady to the mix could be enough to get them to 10 wins and homefield in a playoff game. Plus, whenever Michael Penix Jr. returns, he can also learn a thing or two by sitting down with the NFL legend.

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

Nottingham Forest may face a complex situation around Quibano, with the defender now attracting interest from top European clubs and showing little desire to return to the City Ground.

We covered this week how the 23-year-old is thriving on loan at Vasco da Gama. He has contributed five direct goals in his last four matches and has quickly become a key figure under manager Renato Gaucho.

This growth is even more impressive considering his path. Quibano joined Nottingham Forest, never made a senior appearance, returned to Botafogo on loan, returned to England, and still did not play. He was then loaned again to Vasco in January, where his form has leveled off.

Now, that momentum is capturing the attention of all of Europe.

German interest emerges as situation escalates

According to the report of globo esporte In Brazil, scouts from German clubs have recently traveled to Brazil to monitor players. And Quibano was standing outside.

The left-back is said to have impressed more than any other defender under the age of 23 during those scouting trips. This has led to concrete inquiries from two major clubs.

Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen have both contacted Nottingham Forest and Vasco to understand the terms of a potential deal.

This is not an advanced conversation yet, but it signals a clear change. Quibano is no longer just a success loan story. He is now back on the European radar at a high level.

Player stance and Vasco position

There is another important detail shaping the situation. Reports indicate that Quibano does not view the return to Nottingham Forest positively, mainly due to the adaptation difficulties he faced during his short stint in England.

Additionally, he is open to another European move. That distinction matters. This suggests that their next move may still be overseas, but not necessarily back into the wild.

Meanwhile, Vasco is trying to establish himself in this scenario.

The Brazilian club has a purchase option of €10m (£8.6m), and are internally They are assessing whether they should invest or not. The fee is considered high by his standards, but his performance and rapid adaptation are seen as strong arguments in favor of a permanent deal.

A contract scheme also exists. If Vasco invokes this clause, they intend to tie down Quibano by December 2030.

His happiness at the club is another factor. report from brazil Described as a settled individual who has got on well with teammates and staff and is enjoying his return to Rio de Janeiro.

What does this mean for nottingham forest

For Nottingham Forest, this is becoming a multi-layered decision.

They have still not used the player at senior level. Yet his value is increasing through performances elsewhere and through the interest of clubs now competing in European competitions.

The €10 million (£8.6 million) option agreed with Vasco could soon look like a favorable deal for the Brazilian side, especially if the competition increases.

At the same time, the interest from Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen introduces a new dynamism. Forrest may have the opportunity to reevaluate its value in the market rather than simply adhere to a pre-agreed structure.

Our View: Marinakis to take advantage

Cuiabano’s situation is gaining momentum. Vasco wants to keep him, but he will face financial difficulties. The player is happy and playing regularly, which supports that path.

However, renewed European interest – and their own openness to another move abroad – could quickly change the landscape. And Evangelos Marinakis knows this, so it will be difficult for Forest to produce a negative result.

The situation now is about deciding whether to cash in, renegotiate, or perhaps bring back a great player they have yet to properly evaluate.

Exclusive: Mathias Oliveira

🚨Nottingham Forest are still pursuing a Napoli player
➡️Change #NFFC interest has not been affected
🔼The Premier League is the key to a successful transferhttps://t.co/f51ZV1MFiv #SSCinapoli

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 27 March 2026

Tottenham Hotspur’s Lucas Bergvall says Sweden manager Graham Potter will have to make a decision on his minutes ahead of the clash with Poland.

The midfielder was a regular under Thomas Frank, playing 26 matches under the Dane’s orders and scoring one goal and four assists.

Tottenham parted ways with the manager in February and appointed Igor Tudor until the end of the season.

Bergvall has not featured regularly under Tudor due to injury. On 20 January, he suffered an ankle injury in Spurs’ 2–0 Champions League win at home to Borussia Dortmund.

last month, the potter said It will be difficult for him to be fit in time for the current international break.

However, he returned to the field in Tottenham’s 3–2 Champions League win over Atletico Madrid last week. At the weekend, he again came off the bench in Spurs’ 3–0 league defeat to Nottingham Forest.

Despite his earlier doubts, Potter added the young player to his list. Bergvall played 13 minutes in Sweden’s 3-1 win over Ukraine in the World Cup playoffs on Thursday.

The Tottenham man proved the doubters wrong

After yesterday’s match, soccer channel Talked to Lucas Bergvall about his fitness and other topics.

On his early return from injury and his place in the national team, he said: “It’s been tough. But it was incredibly fun to come back and we won.

“Yes, it happened quickly. But it’s hard to say when you get an injury like that. It varies from person to person as to how quickly it goes. I was lucky that I came back in time.”

The main goal of the Tottenham Hotspur player was to get a place in Graham Potter’s team.

“Yes, it is. And that was the goal. To get back to the national team. I think most people had written me off when I had the injury. I tried to rehab as quickly as possible and get back.” Bergvall explained.

Sweden must beat Poland on Tuesday to book a place in the World Cup. The midfielder, for his part, feels ready to start in this important encounter.

“It depends on the coach but I am ready,” He added.

Ahead of tomorrow’s match, Potter said the Spurs man is “extremely important” to the national team.

On this comment Bergvall said: “Did he say that about me? First of all, it’s incredibly funny to hear him say that. I’m just trying to come here and help the team as much as I can after the injury. I can contribute as much as I can so that we can get to the World Cup.”

Sweden squad for March international break

Graham Potter’s team will face Poland on March 31:

Goalkeepers: Christopher Nordfelt, Melker Aalborg, Noel Törnqvist

Defenders: Victor Lindelof, Isak Hien, Gabriel Gudmundsson, Carl Starfelt, Daniel Svensson, Gustaf Lagerbilke, Herman Johansson

Midfielders: Mattias Svanberg, Jesper Carlström, Yasin Ayari, Hugo Larsson, Lucas Bergvall, Besfort Jenelli, Gustav Lundgren, Williet Svedberg, Eric Smith, Elliot Stroud.

Forwards: Victor Gyökeres, Anthony Elanga, Gustaf Nilsson, Benjamin Nygren, Rouni Bardaghji, Taha Ali

🇷🇴Radu Dragusin | Really nice words from the defender.

🤍Explains how he fell in love with the move to Tottenham
🩺The closeness has increased @madders10: “It’s just an example of how he is, the kind of guy he is. That and a lot of my colleagues.”https://t.co/h2fVYHOANm #thfc #joyce

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 26 March 2026

Leon Bailly spent the first half of this season away from Aston Villa at AS Roma. Now the winger has once again become an important player for Unai Emery’s team.

The Jamaican was loaned to AS Roma, where his arrival was celebrated. However, he suffered a muscle injury in his very first training session.

Things continued to go downhill. He suffered three more muscle injuries, allowing him to play only 181 minutes in Serie A.

sports witness Question marks were raised about the winger’s attitude, as Roma became frustrated with the player. They weren’t really sure about his never-ending muscle problems, as he failed to play more than 30 minutes even in the Europa League.

Now, Roma has been surprised by how things have turned out for him at Aston Villa, where he has played more than 300 minutes in the Premier League.

The reversal is being seen as a miracle

today’s corriere dello sport Leon Bailey’s condition is ‘nothing short of a miracle’. They suggest something is not right about the Jamaica international, which raises doubts about his attitude in Rome.

Corriere struggles to explain the nature of his season, especially since Bailly’s fitness at Aston Villa appears to be fine.

There’s also a hint of humor in there, with the newspaper reporting that the 28-year-old’s first injury at Roma came after he had just kicked a ball and had not even sprinted.

Furthermore, he seems to have ‘eliminated’ the Bailey at the end of his time in Rome. That’s when he specifically requested to feature in a big game against Juventus. This proved to be the last straw.

Our take: Bailey was never a Gasperini player

In defense of Leon Bailly, Roma’s injuries have held him back. But Gian Piero Gasperini’s system is not for everyone.

Many players have come and gone who have struggled with the physical demands. This requires each player to constantly press their man, cover distance and operate high up the pitch.

It is very difficult to do that for a player who has worked in a more practical setup at Aston Villa. Unai Emery’s system relies on transitional moments, which is often the nature of the Premier League at the moment.

With this in mind, the attacker’s position comes as no surprise. He started against Chelsea and Leeds United and should be more involved soon.

🇧🇪 Amadou Onana | “I’m not a doctor, but…”

🔜 Aston Villa star suggests team-mate to come back soon
⭐️ Knows how important it is for Tielemans #avfc https://t.co/sxxLYlDc04

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 19 March 2026

The New York Knicks have been on the rise lately, currently sitting in third place in the Eastern Conference, but have a real chance to unseat the Boston Celtics for second place. The Knicks have played the last portion of the schedule without Miles McBride, who is sidelined after sports hernia surgery.

Recently, Knicks insider James L. Edwards III provided an update on McBride’s status, which should get New York fans excited.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Deuce McBride returns Sunday against OKC,” Edwards III, formerly of the Ax, reported on Twitter.

It will certainly be a welcome sight for Knicks fans to have McBride back in the lineup as soon as possible. When healthy, the former West Virginia star provides New York with elite outside shooting, solid on-ball defense and the ability to facilitate play for his teammates.

The Knicks have largely been operating without a consistent backup point guard behind Jalen Brunson in recent weeks, as Tyler Kolek hasn’t seen much playing time after a midseason bounce. However, McBride is projected to return to his normal workload before the playoffs, which are scheduled to begin next month.

Meanwhile, the Knicks have a big game on the road against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday evening. The Hornets have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA over the past few months, emerging from NBA purgatory and looking like a real threat to scare a potential playoff opponent, should they reach that stage.

New York, led by rookie standout Kon Nueppel and former All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball, will have to do its best to guard the Hornets’ range of three-point shooters.

Tipoff between the Knicks and Hornets is scheduled for 7:00 pm ET from Charlotte.

The Boston Celtics played well and snapped the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 12-game winning streak 119-109 to the applause of the crowd at TD Garden on Wednesday.

The Celtics won their fifth game in six contests and improved to 48–24, maintaining a chance to seize the top seed in the Eastern Conference from the Detroit Pistons.

Jaylen Brown led Boston with a team-high 31 points on 9-of-17 shooting. He also had eight rebounds, eight assists and two steals. Jayson Tatum also had an all-round performance of 19 points, 12 rebounds, seven assists and three steals.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised Tatum’s effort and what he has brought to the table Since returning from his Achilles injury.

“He’s given us what the game needs. He’s helping us win. That’s the only thing that matters,” Majulla said in the post-game conference.

“His rebounding has been top-notch, his ball handling, the way he started the fourth quarter, scoring, managing the game, getting better shots, he’s playing the pick and roll. He’s giving the game what it needs, and that’s the most important thing.”

“He has given us what the game needs.”

Joe Majulla on the return of Jayson Tatum’s influence 👏

(via @danield1214) pic.twitter.com/UpsRyRqTEb

– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 26 March 2026

When Mazzulla isn’t busy battling Derrick White in WWE, he’s focused on praising his players and putting them in position to succeed.

The 28-year-old Tatum has been nothing but impressive in his return to action. He returned well ahead of schedule, giving the Celtics an extra boost heading into the playoffs.

Most importantly, Tatum has willingly taken a back seat to Brown, who is having an MVP-type season.

In nine games, Tatum is averaging 19.1 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.3 steals in 30.1 minutes. Mazulla didn’t even need to put it in slowly.

The Celtics will face the Atlanta Hawks on Friday.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been without Anthony Edwards for the last four games due to a knee injury. While he will miss his fifth straight contest on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets, Edwards has received some good news regarding his progress.

During an appearance on “NBA Countdown” on ESPN, Shams Charania claimed that the Timberwolves are evaluating the 24-year-old guard on a day-to-day basis. The earliest Edwards could return is Saturday, when Minnesota faces the Detroit Pistons, or Monday against the Dallas Mavericks.

“I’m told the Timberwolves will evaluate Anthony Edwards day-to-day moving forward,” Charania said. “So, he could return as soon as Saturday’s game against the Pistons at home or Monday at Dallas.”

Joining ESPN’s NBA Countdown for All-Star injury updates on Detroit’s Cade Cunningham and Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards. pic.twitter.com/BxMCNtRbk5

– Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) 25 March 2026

If the four-time All-Star can return by Saturday or Monday, that would give Edwards eight to nine games for the playoffs. The Timberwolves are fifth in the Western Conference and are guaranteed to at least make the play-in tournament.

If Anthony Edwards returns, he could seriously help his team clinch a top-three seed. But only time will tell how the playoff race will play out in the final stretch of the regular season.

The six-year veteran has played in 58 games for the Timberwolves this season. In those contests, Edwards is averaging 29.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game. He’s hitting those averages while shooting 49.2% from the field and 40.2% from beyond the three-point line.

Meanwhile, the Timberwolves will take on the Rockets on Wednesday evening and the game will tip off at 9:30 pm EST. The club will also continue to monitor Edwards’ knee before determining his eventual return.

Monday night was a bit of a homecoming for some players on the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their game against the Philadelphia 76ers marked second-year guard Jared McCann’s first game in Philly, returning after being involved in a trade prior to the trade deadline. The game was also important for Isaiah Joe, who spent time with the 76ers prior to his stint in Oklahoma City.

McCann and Joe both played brilliantly off the bench for the Thunder. McCann scored 13 points on 5-11 shooting from the field (with three triples) and two assists, while Joe had nine points on 3-7 shooting from deep, with two assists and two steals. The performances of both players caught the attention of head coach Mark Dagenault, who praised the two 76ers alumni for “staying in character” against his former team.

“It was impressive,” Dagenault said, according to Justin Martinez at X.

The Thunder won easily against the 76ers, 123–103. It was a balanced effort from Oklahoma City: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 22 points to lead her team and added five rebounds, five assists, one steal and two blocks. Seven players scored in double figures for the Thunder, including McCann and Jalen Williams. Williams, who returned to the lineup after a long absence, had four rebounds and six assists among his 18 points.

For McCann, this game marks facing his former team for the first time since the trade deadline. McCann was drafted by the 76ers in 2024 and had a great start to his rookie season. However, he suffered a torn meniscus early in his rookie season, causing him to miss the majority of his rookie year. After missing the start of the season with a torn UCL, the 76ers traded him to the Thunder at the deadline.

In 19 games for the Thunder this season, McCann is averaging 12.3 points per game on 46.9% shooting from the field and 44% shooting from deep. He is looking to win his first NBA title with the defending champions.

Philadelphia 76ers head coach Nick Nurse had a positive update to share about Paul George as the veteran star returns from suspension this season.

George has been on the sidelines for the second half of the season due to a 25-game suspension. The NBA suspended the star forward for failing a drug test, forcing Philadelphia to play without one of its key players.

George has not played a game since January 29, which suggests he has been out for almost two months. Nurse provided an update on George’s activity, revealing when fans can expect his eventual return this season.

“He’s worked hard… that’s what I’ll say. He’s prepared hard… I don’t expect any ramp-up problems at all,” Nurse said.

“He’s worked hard… that’s what I’ll say. He’s prepared hard… I don’t expect any kind of rush.”

Sixers head coach Nick Nurse on Paul George’s return to action on Wednesday following his 25-match suspension.

(via @NBCPhilly)pic.twitter.com/9TvqD0l70c

– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 23 March 2026

What’s next for 76-year-old Nick Nurse?

Nick Nurse and the 76ers will look to the return of Paul George this week, especially on Wednesday. The team is 16-11 with him and 23-22 without him. In the 25 games he missed due to suspension, Philadelphia went 13–12.

George remains strong as a veteran star as he goes through the 16th season of his career, his second with the 76ers. In the 27 games he is playing, he is averaging 16 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. He is shooting 42.4% from the field, including 38.2% from beyond the arc, and 85.5% from the free-throw line.

Philadelphia fell to a 39–33 record on the season, and finished seventh in the Eastern Conference standings. They are above the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat, while trailing the Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors.

After their loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, the 76ers will look to bounce back in their next game at home. They will host the Chicago Bulls as tip-off takes place on March 25 at 7 PM ET.

As Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCann prepares to face the Philadelphia 76ers for the first time since their trade at the deadline, the second-year guard reflected on the change he’s made and the kind of reception he’s expecting. McCann returns to Philadelphia with the Thunder in search of their 12th consecutive win, as the defending champions are once again the hottest team in the NBA.

As far as McCann’s reception from 76ers fans at their games in Philadelphia as a member of the visiting Thunder, he is expecting a friendly reaction from the fans.

“I’m hoping for the positive,” McCain said. “My friends and family — they ask me what’s going on and what’s going on. So, I know they’re excited to be back. Hopefully it’ll be fun.”

Since his trade to the Thunder, McCann says he has felt the embrace of Sixers fans, despite the fact that he is playing for the defending champions.

“It means a lot. I’ve always loved the Philly fans. They were always very nice whenever I went out, when I got hurt, they were always very positive and very helpful in my opinion,” McCann said. “So, I guess, thank you to him for supporting me through this process and always being there for me.

“The DMs I’ve gotten have been great, and they’re just saying they miss me and my stuff. So, yeah, definitely love the Philly fans.”

Amid the Thunder’s five-game road trip against Eastern Conference teams, McCann scored a season-high 26 points in a 121–92 win against the Brooklyn Nets last week.

Jared McCain questions Thunder’s intentions after 76ers trade

Second-year guard Jared McCann admitted he had to ask the 76ers about his trade a second time. He was so devastated by the news of the trade that he did not go where he was going. Then, once he realized he was headed to the Thunder, he wondered why the defending champions would want him.

McCain said, “They won the championship. Why do you want me? It’s almost a scary feeling about what’s going to happen next.” “You have no clue. It’s just the unknown. But they’ve been nothing but welcoming to me, and it’s been so amazing to be with this team. The vibes are amazing. Just the culture of the organization. This process has been very seamless for me, and I finally landed in a place. So, I’m happy with it.”

McCain joining the Thunder has undoubtedly been a smooth process.

Bernardo Silva looks to be on the verge of a Manchester City exit as his contract at the Etihad Stadium expires in the summer.

The midfielder won his first silverware on Sunday as the Citizens beat Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. It was his 18th trophy during his tenure at the club, but it is unlikely to have any impact on his decision regarding his future.

sports witness We’ve covered the angle on which Juventus are pushing to sign the Portuguese. It is said that there was already an offer on the table for the midfielder, and that talks had already taken place with his agent Jorge Mendes.

The Old Lady have a long-standing working relationship with the super agent and can now help them seal a deal for the Manchester City player.

Juve offered another player

gazzetta dello sport Report that the Bianconeri have indeed spoken to Mendes for Bernardo. During these negotiations, they were also offered the chance to sign Porto’s star goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

The Portugal international is believed to consider the summer of 2026 as the right time for an exit. He has been at Porto since the age of 11 and Juve could now be his next destination as they look for a new goalkeeper.

The move is being considered in Turin, where the Manchester City player is seen as an important transfer opportunity. The main reason for this is that he is a free agent and still provides a lot of value to the team.

Meanwhile, a deal for Costa is likely to cost around €50 million, but this could be reduced due to Mendes.

Confirmation from Spain regarding Manchester City player

game The 31-year-old man has also been reported in detail in Spain. He is confident that Juve actually have an offer for the multiple-time Premier League winner.

Mendes has made it clear to suitors that money is not the player’s priority and Bernardo is more focused on the current project. Part of the ex-Benfica player’s family lives in Barcelona, ​​in which the Catalan club also have interest.

The only reason he has not made a formal approach yet is lack of space in the team. Bernardo will be in a starting position but all the slots in midfield at Barcelona are already filled.

mendes at work

Everything indicates that Mendes is now really pushing to find a new club for the midfielder. Maybe that’s why information about Bernardo is spreading in many countries.

Since Juve have also been given the chance to sign Diogo Costa, this suggests that they could be the favorites for his signature.

Unlike Barcelona, ​​he will have a starting spot in midfield free for next season. Manuel Locatelli and Khefren Thuram are the only two designated starters in midfield. Bernardo can operate as a more advanced midfielder in the current setup.

He has been playing that role at Manchester City this season and will have no trouble fitting into it.

🇵🇹Oscar Pietuszewski | Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City blend for viral FC Porto sensation

➡️ Only Portuguese clubs arrive at the Winter Market
⭐️ The ruckus has already started regarding the transferhttps://t.co/YJz0Oi6pIp #afc #cfc #mcfc

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 10 March 2026

The fact that Jayson Tatum returned to the hardwood for the Boston Celtics even a year after rupturing his Achilles in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs is such a huge win not only for the Celtics, but for the entire game. Tatum obviously isn’t fully back yet, but his mere presence makes the Celtics a more dangerous team than ever during the 2025-26 season.

There was a lot of hype surrounding Tatum’s return, as it had been rumored for almost the entire season that he might make his highly anticipated return sooner than many expected. But in his absence, Jaylen Brown has stepped up to become the team’s undisputed alpha, and he has more than risen to the occasion – averaging 28.9 points, 7.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 55 games before Tatum’s return.

With Tatum out for so long, he needed to get back on the same page to help propel the Celtics to bigger and better things. That’s exactly what they did with Brown and Tatum close together He has his eyes on the same prize.

“It was great. The initial conversation, having that communication. … It’s important to be able to get back on the same page, but it’s going to take more communication as the year goes on. Things change, we got adversity, ups and downs. We just let it be me and you,” Brown told Vince Carter and the rest of the NBC crew.

Both of them have the responsibility of leading the team as co-stars and they have done it in the past. But the Celtics star refused to be satisfied just because they won a title just two years ago.

“Our communication sets the tone for the rest of the team. We both have to step up if we want this to work,” Brown said.

“We just said it would be me and you.”

Jaylen Brown talked about a meeting he had with Jayson Tatum and the rest of the Celtics team before Tatum returned to action. pic.twitter.com/tJvVgwoP9V

– NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) 22 March 2026

The Miami Heat suffered a tough 123-122 loss to the Houston Rockets on Saturday night, as the team looks to end its four-game losing streak against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs on Monday. As fans wait for some injury updates for the Heat ahead of their clash against the Spurs, stars like Andrew Wiggins and Jaime Jaquez Jr. have received big news.

Starting with Wiggins, he has been upgraded to “probable” for Monday night’s game against the Spurs with a “left big toe”;
Sesamoiditis,” as he missed the last eight games.

Wiggins has been a mainstay in the starting lineup, serving as an impressive two-way player, as he is currently averaging 15.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, while shooting 47.4 percent from the field and 39.9 percent from beyond the arc. The veteran forward has been productive since being traded to the Golden State Warriors in the Jimmy Butler deal and is working well with Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro.

Summer injury update on Jaime Jacquez Jr., Norman Powell

While Wiggins is likely to return Monday, the same can be said for Jaquez, who has missed the last two games due to “left hip tightness” and is “probable” for Monday vs. the Spurs. Jacquez’s presence as the Heat’s first player off the bench has been overlooked because of how well he has come back from his sophomore slump, putting his name in Sixth Man of the Year talks.

So far this season, Jacquez has averaged 15 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game, while shooting 50 percent from the field. Wiggins and Jacquez are most likely to return, with Norman Powell’s status up in the air after missing from the Rockets due to “left calf tightness.”

Powell came off the bench in last Thursday’s loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, potentially showcasing a new direction for the first-time All-Star. The Heat are looking to bounce back from the loss to Houston thanks to the return of Amen Thompson, though it won’t be easy with Wembanyama and San Antonio in town on Monday.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have managed to stay on top of the Western Conference all season, and they have done so without one of their star players for most of the season. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Jalen Williams has been sidelined for the past few weeks with a hamstring injury, and with a few games left in the season, he is ready to make his return.

Multiple sources told ESPN, “Oklahoma City Thunder star Jalen Williams is off the injury report and will return to action on Monday against the Philadelphia 76ers. Williams has missed the past 5-plus weeks due to a hamstring strain, and now has 11 regular season games left,” Sharanya, formerly of the X, wrote on Twitter.

More details to come on this story.

The Golden State Warriors are without Stephen Curry since he last played on Jan. 30 in the team’s 131-124 loss against the Detroit Pistons. With the playoffs around the corner and Golden State fighting for a spot in the play-in tournament, the club receives an important update on his potential return.

According to CluthPoints insider Brett Siegel, reports indicate that the 38-year-old point guard will be ramping up his practices in the coming days after making progress on his injury. Curry will be reevaluated after the club’s six-game road trip.

“Stephen Curry is making good progress and will ramp up his practice in the coming days. He will be re-evaluated after returning home from the team’s six-game road trip and is expected to be ready to play.”

Two more games remain on the Warriors’ six-game road trip. Therefore, the probable date for Stephen Curry’s re-evaluation would be March 24. If he is healthy to return, we could see Curry in action as soon as March 25 when Golden State takes on the Brooklyn Nets at home. This means he can help the team in the last 10 games of the regular season.

Stephen Curry, a 12-time All-Star, was playing with the lights out for the Warriors before suffering a knee injury. In 39 games played this season, Curry averaged 27.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.1 steals per contest, while shooting 46.8% from the floor and 39.1% from beyond the three-point line.

While the Warriors await the official status of the four-time champions in the coming days, the club will focus on their next two matches. The Warriors face the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, then the Dallas Mavericks on Monday.

The Philadelphia 76ers face the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night and Joel Embiid is once again at the center of the injury report. He is listed as questionable due to a right oblique strain, putting the focus on the 76ers’ franchise star as the team looks to bounce back from the loss.

The 76ers enter the matchup at 37-32. They are ranked 9th in the Eastern Conference and are trying to stabilize their position in the playoff race. Meanwhile, Sacramento falls to 18-52. The Kings are ranked 15th in the West and continue to search for answers amid a poor season. Here’s everything we know from the injury report about Joel Embiid and his playing status against the Kings.

Embiid remains the anchor of the 76ers whenever he is on the field. He averaged 26.6 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 33 games. He is also shooting 49.5 percent from the field and 85.8 percent from the free-throw line.

Additionally, he continues to dictate matchups in the paint. He consistently attracts defensive attention and creates space for teammates. His scoring presence sets the tone for Philadelphia’s offense. It gives the team more structure and confidence when he plays.

joel embiid injury status vs kings

The 76ers’ injury report notes Embiid’s availability as particularly important. The league has suspended Paul George, while Tyrese Maxey (finger) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (elbow) are sidelined. Johnny Broom is also out. Philadelphia’s error chances are reduced if Embiid can’t play.

The Kings, on the other hand, have a lengthy injury report. Domantas Sabonis (knee), Zach LaVine (finger), and De’Andre Hunter (eye) are out. Keegan Murray (ankle) and Devin Carter (calf) also will miss the game, while Malik Monk (ankle) and Nick Clifford (hamstring) are questionable.

Embiid’s situation also tells a bigger story. He hasn’t been on the questionable list in quite some time, which is a sign of progress. Although he is unlikely to play, the update suggests that he will return soon.

So when it comes to whether Joel Embiid is playing tonight vs. the Kings, the answer leans towards ‘no’. His condition remains questionable, but signs point towards a return sooner rather than later.