#scoring-struggles
#scoring-struggles

Sources: Kings' late foul was tactical error, not tanking

Coach Doug Christie made a strategic error by fouling Seth Curry late in the game, leading to criticism and a loss for the Kings.

NBA Power Rankings: Did your team meet or miss its season expectations?

The 2025-26 NBA season concludes with teams like the Thunder and Pistons exceeding expectations, while others like the Mavericks look to improve.

New York Knicks

Steve Popper: Knicks' simple two-man game with Brunson, KAT effective

The Knicks simplified their strategy by utilizing a two-man game with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns to enhance offensive performance.

Boston

Celtics' Nikola Vucevic (finger) upgraded for Raptors game

Nikola Vucevic is questionable for Sunday's game against the Raptors after surgery for a fractured finger.

What NBA players, coaches and execs are saying about tanking

The Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies are utilizing mid-tier G League players in a strategy that has led to significant point deficits.

9 hours ago

The 65-Game Rule Exacerbates The Fake Problem It Was Intended To Solve | Defector

The 65-game rule complicates NBA award eligibility, impacting star players who may miss out due to injuries or insufficient game time.

Golden State Warriors

Sources: Kings' late foul was tactical error, not tanking

Coach Doug Christie made a strategic error by fouling Seth Curry late in the game, leading to criticism and a loss for the Kings.

NBA Power Rankings: Did your team meet or miss its season expectations?

The 2025-26 NBA season concludes with teams like the Thunder and Pistons exceeding expectations, while others like the Mavericks look to improve.

New York Knicks

Steve Popper: Knicks' simple two-man game with Brunson, KAT effective

The Knicks simplified their strategy by utilizing a two-man game with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns to enhance offensive performance.

Boston

Celtics' Nikola Vucevic (finger) upgraded for Raptors game

Nikola Vucevic is questionable for Sunday's game against the Raptors after surgery for a fractured finger.

What NBA players, coaches and execs are saying about tanking

The Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies are utilizing mid-tier G League players in a strategy that has led to significant point deficits.

Raptors young gun has officially outpaced the once hopeful prospect in key metric

Ja'Kobe Walter significantly improved his performance post-All-Star break, becoming a key player for the Raptors with impressive stats and efficiency.

Don Granato would switch Leafs to a more exciting brand of hockey: Leafs Morning Take

The Toronto Maple Leafs face leadership issues and criticism over their front-office search, while Alex Ovechkin's future in the NHL remains uncertain.

Washington Capitals

fromRMNB

Capitals don't get scoreboard help in three games, falling further behind in playoff race

The Washington Capitals' playoff odds have dropped to 3.1 percent after recent NHL games did not favor them.

Keepers, sleepers and more: Top 10 fantasy hockey notes for next season

Jeremy Swayman and Jakub Dobes are emerging as top goaltending options for fantasy hockey managers.

Toronto Maple Leafs

fromMaple Leafs Hotstove

Craig Berube on the amount he works with the Leafs' analytics team: "We're in pretty good contact with them throughout the season"

Emergency call-ups of Haymes and Villeneuve are in response to player situations, while Tavares shows strong performance despite age-related challenges.

fromPuck Prose

Three teams who desperately need a rebuild after this season

NHL teams failing to meet expectations should consider a full rebuild to improve future performance.

Toronto Maple Leafs

fromTheLeafsNation

11 hours ago

Don Granato would switch Leafs to a more exciting brand of hockey: Leafs Morning Take

The Toronto Maple Leafs face leadership issues and criticism over their front-office search, while Alex Ovechkin's future in the NHL remains uncertain.

Washington Capitals

fromRMNB

Capitals don't get scoreboard help in three games, falling further behind in playoff race

The Washington Capitals' playoff odds have dropped to 3.1 percent after recent NHL games did not favor them.

Keepers, sleepers and more: Top 10 fantasy hockey notes for next season

Jeremy Swayman and Jakub Dobes are emerging as top goaltending options for fantasy hockey managers.

Toronto Maple Leafs

fromMaple Leafs Hotstove

Craig Berube on the amount he works with the Leafs' analytics team: "We're in pretty good contact with them throughout the season"

Emergency call-ups of Haymes and Villeneuve are in response to player situations, while Tavares shows strong performance despite age-related challenges.

fromPuck Prose

Three teams who desperately need a rebuild after this season

NHL teams failing to meet expectations should consider a full rebuild to improve future performance.

The art of taking a lead: Why every step matters in MLB

The Toronto Blue Jays lost the 2025 World Series by a narrow margin during a critical baserunning play.

fromJays Journal

Unbelievable stats show how Blue Jays turned Rockies, White Sox into world-beaters

The Blue Jays started the season strong but struggled against weaker teams due to injuries, risking their position in the AL East.

The art of taking a lead: Why every step matters in MLB

The Toronto Blue Jays lost the 2025 World Series by a narrow margin during a critical baserunning play.

fromJays Journal

Unbelievable stats show how Blue Jays turned Rockies, White Sox into world-beaters

The Blue Jays started the season strong but struggled against weaker teams due to injuries, risking their position in the AL East.

more#toronto-blue-jays

Chicago Bulls

fromThe Atlantic

17 hours ago

Why Jaden Ivey Was Cut

Jaden Ivey's controversial livestream comments led to his release from the NBA due to conduct deemed detrimental to the team.

fromThe Washington Post

Student-athletes more likely to attend school than peers, new research finds

"Kids show up to school when they feel connected to adults, peers and are engaged in something meaningful," said Hedy Chang, chief executive of Attendance Works.

US news

WNBA mock draft 2026: Miles replaces Fudd at projected No. 1

Strong NCAA tournament performances can significantly impact WNBA draft stock, as seen with Olivia Miles' rise to the top of mock drafts.

Chicago

Sources: WNBA's Sky trades Angel Reese to Dream

WNBA mock draft 2026: Miles replaces Fudd at projected No. 1

Strong NCAA tournament performances can significantly impact WNBA draft stock, as seen with Olivia Miles' rise to the top of mock drafts.

Chicago

Sources: WNBA's Sky trades Angel Reese to Dream

more#wnba

Major League Baseball

Fantasy baseball: Six things I wish I'd known when I drafted

Perfect preparation for drafts is impossible due to constant changes and new insights during the MLB season.

Another sloppy women's Final Four feels like a missed opportunity for the sport

The women's Final Four featured disappointing games, with blowouts and poor shooting overshadowing the excitement of marquee programs and veteran stars.

Washington Nationals

fromDistrict on Deck

Nationals option struggling reliever amid bullpen's continued struggles

The Washington Nationals achieved a significant victory against the St. Louis Cardinals, showcasing strong offensive performance despite ongoing bullpen struggles.

Chicago Cubs

21 hours ago

Cavaliers vs. Hawks Predictions, Best Bets and Odds - Wednesday, April 8, 2026 - Bleacher Nation

Cleveland Cavaliers are favored to win against Atlanta Hawks with a spread of -1.5 and an over/under of 236.5 points.

LA Lakers

Mavericks dispute Redick's claim they erred with Reaves' MRI

The Dallas Mavericks refuted claims of an error in the MRI scan of Austin Reaves, stating standard protocols were followed.

Heat fall to Raptors, head to play-in tournament for 4th time

Miami Heat must navigate the play-in tournament to reach the NBA playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.

Heat's worst-case scenario for gap season is beginning to play out

The Miami Heat are facing a disappointing season, likely heading for another Play-In Tournament without significant player development or strategic moves.

Heat's clearest sign yet that monumental changes are desperately needed

The Miami Heat need monumental changes to address their current mediocrity and identity crisis.

National Basketball Association

Heat just got immediate vindication for their much-criticized Giannis pursuit

Heat fall to Raptors, head to play-in tournament for 4th time

Miami Heat must navigate the play-in tournament to reach the NBA playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.

Heat's worst-case scenario for gap season is beginning to play out

The Miami Heat are facing a disappointing season, likely heading for another Play-In Tournament without significant player development or strategic moves.

Heat's clearest sign yet that monumental changes are desperately needed

The Miami Heat need monumental changes to address their current mediocrity and identity crisis.

Heat just got immediate vindication for their much-criticized Giannis pursuit

The Miami Heat nearly traded for Giannis Antetokounmpo, reinforcing their commitment to pursue him despite not finalizing the deal.

more#miami-heat

Boston Bruins

fromLos Angeles Times

Commentary: Aday Mara's Michigan national title exposes UCLA coach Mick Cronin's failure

Aday Mara's success at Michigan raises questions about UCLA's basketball program and its handling of talent.

Nets' tanking plan in more danger after beating Bucks for second straight win

Brooklyn's recent win jeopardizes their lottery positioning, dropping them to third place with a risk of falling out of the Top 3.

Brooklyn Nets

fromNew York Daily News

Nets win tank war vs. Wizards, but keep focus on development with four games left

Brooklyn Nets prioritize player development and competition despite a challenging season, emphasizing that winning takes various forms beyond just game outcomes.

Brooklyn Nets

fromNew York Post

Nets' tanking plan in more danger after beating Bucks for second straight win

Brooklyn's recent win jeopardizes their lottery positioning, dropping them to third place with a risk of falling out of the Top 3.

Brooklyn Nets

fromNew York Daily News

Nets win tank war vs. Wizards, but keep focus on development with four games left

Brooklyn Nets prioritize player development and competition despite a challenging season, emphasizing that winning takes various forms beyond just game outcomes.

WNBA offseason trade grades 2026: Winners and losers

Angel Reese was traded from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream after expressing concerns about her team's future and her relationship with the franchise.

Michael Malone to UNC: How Tar Heels got here, what he'll need to do to succeed

Michael Malone is set to become the new head coach of North Carolina after Hubert Davis was fired.

Chicago Cubs

North Carolina Hiring Former Nuggets Coach Michael Malone

LA Clippers

Michael Malone to UNC: How Tar Heels got here, what he'll need to do to succeed

Michael Malone is set to become the new head coach of North Carolina after Hubert Davis was fired.

Chicago Cubs

North Carolina Hiring Former Nuggets Coach Michael Malone

Dino Ebel Details Kyle Tucker Fitting In With Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Kyle Tucker to a four-year, $240 million contract, enhancing their already strong lineup for a championship run.

Raptors' season results look remarkable after considering this startling figure

The Raptors have exceeded expectations this season despite struggling with three-point shooting efficiency.

Major Raptors win would also benefit another Eastern Conference team

The Raptors aim to secure the sixth seed to avoid the play-in tournament and increase their playoff chances.

Raptors film room: their stars didn't show up

The Raptors struggled against a good team despite Ingram's positive impact on spacing and offensive dynamics.

3 hours ago

Raptors' season results look remarkable after considering this startling figure

The Raptors have exceeded expectations this season despite struggling with three-point shooting efficiency.

Major Raptors win would also benefit another Eastern Conference team

The Raptors aim to secure the sixth seed to avoid the play-in tournament and increase their playoff chances.

Raptors film room: their stars didn't show up

The Raptors struggled against a good team despite Ingram's positive impact on spacing and offensive dynamics.

The Blitz: Inside the Shift

The episode examines key decisions impacting the Dallas Cowboys' future, including inside linebacker needs and offensive evolution.

fromBoston.com

Celtics' Brad Stevens addresses 'tiresome' college basketball rumors

Brad Stevens is not planning to leave the Boston Celtics despite interest from college programs and other NBA teams.

2026 college softball: Answering five big questions

Texas and Oklahoma are the top teams in college softball, with a major series upcoming this weekend.

#chicago-bulls

Chicago Cubs

How Much of This AKME Disaster Is Michael Reinsdorf's Fault?

Chicago Cubs

NBA Mock Draft: Keaton Wagler Slips After Final Four Loss

Chicago Cubs

Bulls Officially Fire Arturas Karnisovas, Marc Eversley!

Chicago Cubs

How Much of This AKME Disaster Is Michael Reinsdorf's Fault?

Chicago Cubs

NBA Mock Draft: Keaton Wagler Slips After Final Four Loss

Chicago Cubs

Bulls Officially Fire Arturas Karnisovas, Marc Eversley!

more#chicago-bulls

Boston Bruins

fromNBC Sports Boston

Bruins' playoff odds still great, but lack of scoring is huge concern

The Boston Bruins have a 98% chance of making the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs despite recent losses.

LA Lakers

A Vengeful Deity Is Smiting The Lakers | Defector

Injuries to key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves severely impact the Lakers' playoff hopes and performance.

Washington Nationals

Fantasy baseball free agent pickups: Preseason promise, real fantasy results

The opening weeks of the season are ideal for picking up potential long-term fantasy baseball contributors from the waiver wire.

Los Angeles Rams

College baseball Week 8: Top 25 rankings, best moments and what to watch

UCLA remains the top college baseball team after sweeping USC, while Alabama and UCF make significant jumps in the rankings.

New York Knicks

Steve Popper: Knicks can't rest on their laurels in final four games

The Knicks face critical games to secure playoff positioning and improve their performance against winning teams before the postseason.

Raptors' Xs and Os: Getting free above the break

Toronto Raptors utilize strategic plays to create scoring opportunities, focusing on quick decision-making and effective movement.

Toronto Raptors

Raptors film room: the future version of this team

Young guns show out as Raptors fight for playoffs - Raptors Roundup

The Raptors' upcoming games will determine their playoff positioning and the importance of playoff experience for young players is emphasized.

Raptors' latest roster move is merited - but there's a hidden cost behind it

The Toronto Raptors signed guard Braxton Key to fill their vacant 15th roster spot before the end of the regular season.

Raptors already proved how meaningful potential Tempo move could be for fans

Local Canadian talent enhances fan excitement, especially for teams like the Toronto Raptors, which fosters a unique connection with the community.

A subtle issue is exposing the Raptors' execution down the stretch

Toronto Raptors' poor free throw shooting at 66.3% raises concerns about their mental fortitude during a critical season stretch.

15 hours ago

Raptors' Xs and Os: Getting free above the break

Toronto Raptors utilize strategic plays to create scoring opportunities, focusing on quick decision-making and effective movement.

Raptors film room: the future version of this team

Collin Murray-Boyles was pivotal in the Raptors' victory, showcasing teamwork and determination throughout the game.

Young guns show out as Raptors fight for playoffs - Raptors Roundup

The Raptors' upcoming games will determine their playoff positioning and the importance of playoff experience for young players is emphasized.

Raptors' latest roster move is merited - but there's a hidden cost behind it

The Toronto Raptors signed guard Braxton Key to fill their vacant 15th roster spot before the end of the regular season.

Raptors already proved how meaningful potential Tempo move could be for fans

Local Canadian talent enhances fan excitement, especially for teams like the Toronto Raptors, which fosters a unique connection with the community.

A subtle issue is exposing the Raptors' execution down the stretch

Toronto Raptors' poor free throw shooting at 66.3% raises concerns about their mental fortitude during a critical season stretch.

Big men, bigger lineups: how length, size got Illinois, UConn, Arizona, Michigan to the Final Four

The Final Four features the tallest teams in two decades, emphasizing the importance of size in basketball success.

Men's NCAA basketball 2026-27 Way-Too-Early Top 25 rankings

Michigan won its first national championship since 1989, solidifying its dominance in men's college basketball.

How Many Points Will Cooper Flagg Score vs the Clippers? Props, Odds for Mavericks vs Clippers on April 7 - Bleacher Nation

Cooper Flagg is +140 to drop at least 30 points tonight according to FanDuel Sportsbook and +285 to score at least 35. Flagg has scored 20+ points in 6 of his last 10 games.

Chicago Cubs

Women's NCAA basketball transfer rankings for 2026-27 season

The women's college basketball transfer portal opened with over 1,000 players entering, significantly impacting team rosters and coaching strategies.

Men's college basketball transfer portal live: Tracking news, updates

The transfer portal allows players to enter and exit during a 15-day window after the national title game for potential program changes.

Women's NCAA basketball transfer rankings for 2026-27 season

The women's college basketball transfer portal opened with over 1,000 players entering, significantly impacting team rosters and coaching strategies.

Men's college basketball transfer portal live: Tracking news, updates

The transfer portal allows players to enter and exit during a 15-day window after the national title game for potential program changes.

Tatum, Celtics pull away late to beat Raptors, move closer to 2-seed: 6 takeaways

Jayson Tatum's return has significantly improved the Celtics' performance, showcasing his passing and rebounding skills in a win over the Raptors.

fromTheLeafsNation

Craig Berube frustrated with Maple Leafs' defensive zone coverage vs. Kings

Berube highlighted penalties and defensive coverage as key factors in the team's loss against the Kings.

fromNew York Daily News

From Pittsboro to Brooklyn, Nets' Drake Powell's game is built on the unseen work

"That's just how I was raised. I feel like Northwood, the basketball gym felt like my home since I'm there so much, before, during and after school... I just wanted to help out. That was really it."

Brooklyn Nets

Ranking the top 20 men's basketball players to enter the transfer portal

The NCAA transfer portal for men's basketball opened, with expectations of over 3,000 players entering this season.

fromLos Angeles Times

1 week ago

Five concerns UCLA must address before facing Texas in the Final Four

"We try to put ourselves in situations every day in practice where we're facing adversity, where we're being pushed to our edge, and that's where you're forced to grow and feel forced to make decisions."

Boston Bruins

Cori Close And UCLA Won At Their Own Speed | Defector

UCLA won the national championship against South Carolina, showcasing a calm and steady game strategy that outperformed their opponents' frantic style.

Do you know ball? Inside the internet's most obsessive basketball debate.

Ball knowledge in basketball transcends trivia, encompassing a deeper understanding of the game's systems and player roles.

National Basketball Association

I Miss My Jump Shot | Defector

fromMashable

Do you know ball? Inside the internet's most obsessive basketball debate.

Ball knowledge in basketball transcends trivia, encompassing a deeper understanding of the game's systems and player roles.

National Basketball Association

I Miss My Jump Shot | Defector

The hidden Jakob Poeltl touch that powers Raptors' success

Jakob Poeltl's performance and injury history have raised concerns about his contract value for the Toronto Raptors.

What to know about Mabrey and the rest of the Tempo's expansion draft picks

Marina Mabrey, the Tempo's unrestricted free agent selection, averaged 14.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists last season, showcasing her ability to drive offense.

Women

1 week ago

NBA contender kryptonite: Biggest weakness for top playoff teams

The NBA playoffs are approaching, with teams like the Pistons and Spurs facing critical weaknesses that could impact their postseason success.

Will Riley credits an unexpected reason for his rookie emergence

Will Riley has emerged as a standout rookie for the Washington Wizards, showcasing significant improvement after his G-League experience.

fromWiz of Awes

NBA Draft analyst comes full circle on Will Riley stock amid breakout

Will Riley has emerged as a key prospect for the Washington Wizards, showcasing significant talent and potential for the team's future.

fromWiz of Awes

1 week ago

Will Riley credits an unexpected reason for his rookie emergence

Will Riley has emerged as a standout rookie for the Washington Wizards, showcasing significant improvement after his G-League experience.

fromWiz of Awes

NBA Draft analyst comes full circle on Will Riley stock amid breakout

Will Riley has emerged as a key prospect for the Washington Wizards, showcasing significant talent and potential for the team's future.

Ranking the 15 best players in the women's Final Four

UConn's Sarah Strong leads the final women's college basketball player rankings as the NCAA tournament reaches the national semifinals.

Toronto Raptors sign Tyreke Key

Tyreke Key has signed with the Toronto Raptors after a successful season with Raptors 905, showcasing his scoring ability and efficiency.

Raptors' Shead draws 65th offensive foul call of the season

Jamal Shead excels in drawing offensive fouls, significantly contributing to his team's success despite not having standout box scores.

2 NBA head coaches push back after LeBron James' Memphis remark

NBA coaches defend Memphis culture against LeBron James' relocation comments.

Why playoff exit 'doesn't diminish' season for Raptors 905

Raptors 905's success is intertwined with player development for the NBA, exemplified by A.J. Lawson's transition to a higher opportunity.

fromAthlon Sports

Bill Self, Kansas Dealt Bad News on Thursday

Kansas Jayhawks' season ended in the Round of 32, with key player Flory Bidunga entering the transfer portal and testing NBA Draft waters.