Plenty of picks, like the rights to Luka Doncic, throughout the lottery could be in play for draft-night trades. So which moves should teams make?
www.espn.com – NBA
Sport News
Ranking the NHL’s top 50 (plus) free agents
With the market set to open July 1, we sort the players available into four groups: best bets, smart gambles, boom or busts, and bad investments.
www.espn.com – NHL
How Kirk Cousins’ Vikings education will continue during break
After a whirlwind first few months with the Vikings, Kirk Cousins gets to exhale a bit, but the work will continue in the final weeks before camp.
www.espn.com – NFL
Barnwell’s top 25 young players at World Cup 2018
For young players, making the 23-man World Cup squad is a top indicator of stardom to come. Bill Barnwell picks out the 25 next big things in 2018.
www.espn.com – TOP
The five biggest questions facing NFL teams at minicamps
Which players will be no-shows? How will the rookies look? We identify what to watch at mandatory minicamps.
www.espn.com – NFL
Summer of LeBron: Everything to know for Decision 3.0
For the third time in his career, the offseason revolves around LeBron James. Here’s everything you need to know about The Decision 3.0.
www.espn.com – NBA
Ranking Ovechkin’s top post-Cup Final moments
The party has raged all over the D.C. area since the Caps won the Stanley Cup. And Alex Ovechkin has seemingly been a part of it all.
www.espn.com – NHL
What the Rockets have to trade to get LeBron
What would have to happen for LeBron James to join James Harden and CP3? Kevin Pelton looks at how Houston might build a juggernaut.
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How the Capitals defend the Stanley Cup
The Capitals have won the Stanley Cup. Here are three key steps they should take to help defend it next year.
www.espn.com – NHL
Will top draft prospect Mo Bamba reach his ridiculous ceiling?
The Texas center won’t be the No. 1 pick. But will he turn into the best player? That’s starting to look like a real question now.
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Trade or re-sign Earl Thomas? Insiders pick for Seahawks
Seattle’s star safety is sitting out mandatory minicamp. He wants a new deal. What should Pete Carroll & Co. do? Our panel weighs in.
www.espn.com – NFL
Sources: Stackhouse joining Grizzlies staff
Former NBA All-Star turned coach Jerry Stackhouse will join the Memphis Grizzlies’ coaching staff, league sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
www.espn.com – NBA
What does the future hold for Barry Trotz?
The Cup-winning coach is without a contract for next season. Will he stay with the Caps? Join a new team? Take a gap year? We assess his options.
www.espn.com – NHL
This Warriors dynasty only has high-class problems
Golden State faced its hardest road to a title yet, and expensive roster decisions are coming up. But the rest of the league will face bigger concerns trying to topple this team.
www.espn.com – NBA
Crawford defeats Horn by TKO in 9th round
Terence Crawford put the welterweight division on notice Saturday night in Las Vegas, dominating Jeff Horn before the title fight was stopped in the ninth round.
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Cousins connection: Vikings building chemistry with new QB
The relationship between new Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and his receivers won’t develop overnight, but they believe they are on the right track.
www.espn.com – NFL
NFL Census: Finding the league’s biggest outliers
Who’s the tallest (and shortest) player? What about heaviest (and lightest)? We looked at data from Week 1 of 2017 for those answers and more.
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On free agency, James says ‘don’t have an answer’
LeBron James said his family and desire to “still want to be in championship mode” will dictate where he’ll play next season but offered little detail as to when he’ll make that decision.
www.espn.com – NBA
Way-too-early 2018-19 NHL Power Rankings
We’re already looking ahead to next season. Can the Capitals repeat? Will the Lightning or Predators make the leap? Here’s how we think the league will stack up.
www.espn.com – NHL
Dynasty Warriors: Golden State proves unstoppable in title run
With their third championship in four years, Steph Curry and the Warriors cemented their place in NBA history with style and star power.
www.espn.com – TOP
Ovechkin tops off first Cup with Conn Smythe
Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin took home playoff MVP honors after scoring a team-best 15 goals this postseason, including one in Thursday’s Stanley Cup Final clincher.
www.espn.com – NHL
The ‘real Kevin King’ should finally appear in training camp
A year after the Packers picked him at No. 33 overall, they still haven’t seen Kevin King at his best but believe that will change soon.
www.espn.com – NFL
The most devastating quarter in sports
You’ve feared them. You’ve been in awe of them. Now we break down the Warriors’ video-game third quarters, when all opponents can do is pray for a merciful end.
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Ovi’s 14-year journey to a Cup is over
The quest from 2004 to 2018 for the player who energized a franchise, won many awards and finally — finally — won hockey’s ultimate prize.
www.espn.com – TOP
The Islanders’ top head-coaching candidates
A new job has opened up, with many worthy candidates to fill it. Here are 11 names that could land the gig.
www.espn.com – NHL
Jenkins ‘tired’ of anthem narrative, hence signs
After Malcolm Jenkins held up signs highlighting social justice facts in lieu of speaking to the media, the Eagles safety broke his silence in an interview with ESPN: “I’m tired of the narrative being about the anthem, about the White House or whatever.”
www.espn.com – NFL
‘Assassin’ KD explodes for 43 to lead Warriors
On a night when his teammates struggled, Kevin Durant went off for a game-high 43 points as the Warriors took a 3-0 series lead in the NBA Finals. Said coach Steve Kerr: “Some of those shots, I don’t think anybody in the world can hit those but him.”
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LeBron-KD rivalry still one-sided, but the sides have changed
After regularly losing to LeBron James in OKC, Kevin Durant has dominated with the Warriors. Flipping the script won’t be easy for James.
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Why Ben Roethlisberger’s absence isn’t an issue (yet)
Big Ben is not making any grand statement by missing OTA workouts; he’s just missing them. And it’s the Steelers’ two young QBs who stand to benefit.
www.espn.com – NFL
Sources: 76ers owners discuss Colangelo future
The Philadelphia 76ers ownership group met for several hours in New York on Tuesday evening to discuss whether the findings of a probe into president of basketball operations Bryan Colangelo necessitate his firing, league sources told ESPN.
www.espn.com – NBA
Conn Smythe Triple Threat Match: Ovi vs. Kuznetsov vs. Holtby
Heading into the Final, it was all but certain that a Capitals win meant the playoff MVP award would go to Ovechkin. Now? He’s got some competition.
www.espn.com – NHL
What the Warriors are doing to the Cavs is just mean
Houston drilled the perfect plan for the Golden State juggernaut and still lost. Zach Lowe questions how Cleveland can possibly keep up.
www.espn.com – TOP
NBA Finals bold predictions, MVP favorites and what’s next
Will the Cavs start an NBA Finals comeback at home? Who is the MVP favorite? Our NBA experts answer the big questions after Game 2.
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Vegas’ Miller breaks nose late in Game 4 rout
Vegas defenseman Colin Miller came away from Monday night’s Game 4 rout by the Capitals with a broken nose sustained on a third-period check.
www.espn.com – NHL
Barnwell: Best fits for 15 NFL free agents still on market
The best fit for Dez Bryant? Aaron Rodgers would love him in Green Bay. Here are the ideal landing spots for 15 unsigned veterans.
www.espn.com – NFL
The Capitals vs. a miracle: Each side has a case
Teams that have gone up 3-1 in the Stanley Cup Final have won the series 31 straight times. But don’t plan a parade quite yet. Here’s why the Golden Knights can still win.
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Three-feat: Curry calls Finals mark ‘pretty cool’
Warriors guard Stephen Curry set an NBA Finals record by hitting nine 3-pointers in Sunday’s win over the Cavaliers, breaking the previous mark held by former Celtics star Ray Allen.
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Vegas fans go to extremes to be in D.C.
For some fans of the Vegas Golden Knights, nothing was going to keep them from attending Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final in Washington, D.C., even if it meant buying Capitals season tickets.
www.espn.com – NHL
Steph looks like the MVP, but LeBron probably still is
Steph Curry is bringing extra magic to the court despite LeBron James’ transcendent performances in Cleveland’s losing efforts.
www.espn.com – TOP
Could Jets’ owner-player unity on anthem issue attract free agents?
While there’s a PR factor in play with the Jets’ stance, the biggest factor in attracting free agents is almost always the best contract.
www.espn.com – NFL
As starting QB, Patrick Mahomes is going full K.C.
It’s been a spring of jorts, Royals games and taking over Kansas City for new Chiefs starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
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LeBron calls Game 1 loss one of worst in career
The Cavaliers’ loss to the Warriors in Game 1 was “one of the toughest losses” ever for LeBron James, and George Hill was unable to sleep after the overtime loss.
www.espn.com – NBA
Caps’ Cup run brings joy to fan facing battle of her life
The Caps’ quest for the Stanley Cup has been a welcome distraction for Amanda Wilson, who has been undergoing treatment for a rare form of cancer.
www.espn.com – NHL
Five things we learned from Game 3 of the Cup Final
The Capitals are two wins away from a Stanley Cup, thanks in part to a gutsy outing by Evgeny Kuznetsov. Here are the key takeaways looking ahead to Game 4.
www.espn.com – TOP
How will Caps, Golden Knights adjust for Game 3?
Who will replace Evgeny Kuznetsov if he can’t play? Has Marc-Andre Fleury hit a wall? What will D.C. do for the pregame?
www.espn.com – NHL
Cardinals fans (and fantasy players) rejoice: David Johnson has a fullback
Cardinals RB David Johnson will play with a fullback for the first time since college. What does that mean for his numbers and his health?
www.espn.com – NFL
Cavs’ Thompson fined $25K; flagrant reduced
Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson was fined $ 25,000 for failing to leave the court in a timely manner and shoving a ball into the face of the Warriors’ Draymond Green in Thursday night’s Game 1 of the NBA Finals after being ejected.
www.espn.com – NBA
Five crucial Game 1 insights for NBA Finals going forward
How will the Cavs and Warriors respond after an unforgettable Game 1? Zach Lowe breaks down what worked and what failed.
www.espn.com – TOP
Debating win total projections for all 32 NFL teams
Over/under 0.5 wins for the Browns this season? C’mon, easy call. But what about 5.7? NFL Nation runs the numbers for every team’s 2018 forecast.
www.espn.com – NFL
JR’s blunder opens door for Warriors’ bizarre Game 1 win
Golden State survived a wild Game 1 that featured overtime, 51 points from LeBron James and a mental mistake by JR Smith that may have cost Cleveland a win.
www.espn.com – NBA
Five things we learned in Game 2 of the Cup Final
The biggest takeaways from the Washington Capitals’ Game 2 win, including Evgeny Kuznetsov’s injury, Braden Holtby’s play and a special teams swing.
www.espn.com – NHL
Inside the dramatic 48th minute of Cavs-Warriors Game 1
The closing moments of regulation in Game 1 had everything. We let the Cavs and Warriors tell the unbelievable story in their own words.
www.espn.com – TOP
The 99 NFL players, coaches and themes that will define 2018
A wild offseason should lead to an eventful season. Here are the biggest names and storylines to watch as the number of days remaining until kickoff enters double digits.
www.espn.com – NFL
Cavaliers-Warriors IV was always destined to happen … right?
From the moment the 2017 NBA Finals ended, a fourth Cavs-Warriors series felt inevitable. But that wasn’t always the case as the season played out.
www.espn.com – NBA
Why Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final was ‘peak hockey’
After few penalties, lots of scoring and a few dashes each of chaos and mayhem, the NHL can only hope the rest of the series is this entertaining.
www.espn.com – NHL
Anatomy of Braden Holtby’s remarkable save
Washington’s victory was due in no small part to Holtby’s stick save on Alex Tuch. Amid the chaos, here’s how he did it.
www.espn.com – TOP
Meet the new Blake Bortles, a confident QB with peace of mind
After three frustrating seasons, the Jaguars quarterback turned things around in 2017. Now he has a new contract, job security and a fresh outlook.
www.espn.com – NFL
Warriors hugely favored over Cavs in Finals
LeBron James and the Cavaliers enter their fourth Finals series against the Warriors as the largest Finals underdogs in 16 seasons.
www.espn.com – NBA
Five things we learned in Game 1 of the Cup Final
Vegas’ fourth line was electrifying, the refs largely swallowed their whistles and the pregame show didn’t disappoint. What will carry over to Game 2?
www.espn.com – NHL
The admiration of how the Warriors set up Round 4 with the Cavaliers
Golden State won a battle of endurance against the top seed in the West to set up a fourth straight NBA Finals against Cleveland.
www.espn.com – TOP
Lue: East clincher best game of LeBron’s career
Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue didn’t hold back when putting LeBron James’ performance in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals into context, comparing it to his NBA title-winning Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals.
www.espn.com – NBA
Stanley Cup Final tale of the tape: Full breakdown and picks
Which team has the superior first line? The better power play? Who has been blessed by the hockey gods? We debate eight categories and make picks.
www.espn.com – NHL
A generation of fans will see this Game 7 victory as LeBron validation
Love him or hate him, LeBron James’ performance against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals deserves to be recognized and revered.
www.espn.com – TOP
Steelers’ Bell raps on being ‘target’ for critics
Le’Veon Bell raps about the criticism he is receiving over his contract drama with the Steelers in a new song titled “Target.”
www.espn.com – NFL
Klay-day: Warriors star evokes Game 6 heroics
Klay Thompson hit nine 3-pointers to lead the Warriors to victory in a must-win Game 6 against the Rockets, a performance that coach Steve Kerr described as “fantastic.”
www.espn.com – NBA
Key stats for Capitals-Golden Knights Stanley Cup Final
The Capitals finally got over the hump. Vegas defied all expectations. Who will hoist the Stanley Cup? Here are the keys, plus a series pick.
www.espn.com – NHL
Warriors save themselves, extend thrilling series, give NBA two Game 7s
The Splash Brothers came through for the Warriors with their season on the line, and the fun in this series shall continue for one more day.
www.espn.com – TOP
Answers for the five biggest NFL questions left in the offseason
Will OBJ get a new deal? Where will Dez Bryant sign? We take on the NFL’s biggest questions left to be answered this offseason.
www.espn.com – NFL
Ranking the best Stanley Cup losers of the past 20 years
Either the Golden Knights or the Capitals will lose in the Final, joining this list of also-rans. Plus, a Calgary Flames Jersey Foul, and more.
www.espn.com – NHL
Is it greatness or is it magic? It’s Year 15 of LeBron
LeBron James has made a habit of dominating playoff games at home, and Game 6 was no exception with the Cavaliers facing elimination.
www.espn.com – TOP
Steelers bet big on James Conner after humbling rookie year
James Conner’s inspirational story was celebrated, but on the field he struggled like many rookies. In Year 2, he knows he has “a lot to prove.”
www.espn.com – NFL
Celtics’ Smart says G7 ‘not going to be pretty’
With a trip to the NBA Finals on the line, the Celtics say they are expecting a tough battle against the Cavaliers on Saturday in Boston.
www.espn.com – NBA
CP3 in question for G6 due to hurt hamstring
The Rockets won Game 5 against the Warriors but might have suffered a serious loss, as Chris Paul exited because of a right hamstring injury.
www.espn.com – NBA
Vegas’ success wasn’t rigged: Here’s how the Knights were built
No one expected Vegas to make the Stanley Cup Final this season. Here’s how each player taken in the expansion draft has helped (or not).
www.espn.com – NHL
Paul’s latest postseason injury comes one win away from NBA Finals
Chris Paul overcame a slow start to put his team in position for a major postseason win — only to end that win with another critical playoff injury.
www.espn.com – TOP
Graziano: Bungled anthem policy shows NFL has much to learn from NBA
Why can’t the NFL get it right with its anthem policy and clumsy handling of players’ rights? The answer has to do with sincerity and trust.
www.espn.com – NFL
Barnwell: Ultimate surprise sports runs — where Vegas ranks
Does Vegas’ Stanley Cup run make it the most unlikely finalist in modern American sports? Bill Barnwell looks at candidates across the big four.
www.espn.com – NHL
Celtics push Cavs to the brink as Tatum, defense spark Game 5 rout
Jayson Tatum stole the show and Boston’s defense stymied LeBron in the second half. Now the Celtics head back to Cleveland with a chance to end King James’ Eastern Conference reign.
www.espn.com – TOP
Here’s what the national anthem policy actually means
How will “show respect” be defined? Can players raise their fist? Will there be any avenue to protest without discipline? Here’s what to expect.
www.espn.com – NFL
LeBron shrugs off talk he tired down stretch
While LeBron James dismissed talk that he grew fatigued during Wednesday’s Game 5 loss to the Celtics, Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue admitted, “He looked a little tired to me.”
www.espn.com – NBA
Durant laments Game 4 finish, but looks ahead
Kevin Durant said, “I wish I had that last play back,” following the Warriors’ Game 4 loss to the Rockets on Tuesday, but he already is looking ahead to Thursday’s Game 5.
www.espn.com – NBA
Why no NHL players made the World Fame 100 list
Hockey players were frozen out of our accounting of the 100 most famous athletes on the planet — although, no surprise, Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin came closest.
www.espn.com – NHL
Offensive juggernaut? Mental toughness secures Game 4
The Houston Rockets faced a double-digit deficit not once, but twice, in the most feared arena this postseason. But defense and composure were the key ingredients to a pivotal Game 4 win that tied the Western Conference finals.
www.espn.com – TOP
Best stuff from OTAs: Carson Wentz is pumped and Richard Sherman does some coaching
Rookie camps are in the books. It’s time for full teams to take the practice field for OTAs. Here’s the best stuff from around the NFL.
www.espn.com – NFL
NFL OTAs roll call: Brady, Gronk among stars skipping workouts
Tom Brady, Julio Jones and Aaron Donald are conspicuously absent but Odell Beckham Jr. is attending OTAs.
www.espn.com – NFL
Celtics vow to ‘get up off mat, go after it again’
The Celtics won’t find watching film of Monday’s Game 4 loss very therapeutic, as there were head-slapping miscues in the first half and numerous missed chances to pull close in the fourth quarter.
www.espn.com – NBA
Capitals’ Orpik: ‘Desperation’ drove us to win
Fueled by physical play and “desperation,” the Capitals kept their playoff hopes alive with a Game 6 win over the Lightning.
www.espn.com – NHL
Pressure flips to Celtics after Cavs win Game 4
LeBron James’ sixth 40-point game of the postseason helped Cleveland hold off Boston’s second-half push to tie the Eastern Conference finals.
www.espn.com – TOP
The Jets’ offseason game plan
The Jets made the Western Conference final, but fell short against Vegas. Here’s what they should do to take the next step in 2018-19.
www.espn.com – NHL
The return of the Warriors we know: Steph and defense
Steph Curry and the Warriors had three days off to ponder a bad Game 2 loss in Houston. Back home for Game 3, Curry and his team unloaded on the Rockets.
www.espn.com – TOP
Inside Nashville’s bid to land 2019 NFL draft: Make it a party
The NFL wants draft weekend to take on the personality of the host city, and Nashville can’t wait to show off its honky-tonks, sports bars and more.
www.espn.com – NFL
D’Antoni: Rockets ‘played soft’ in record rout
Mike D’Antoni and the Rockets cited a lack of aggression in their lopsided Game 3 loss to the Warriors on Sunday, the worst playoff loss in the franchise’s history.
www.espn.com – NBA
Rozier: ‘We needed to get our butts whooped’
After a 116-86 drubbing at the hands of the Cavaliers trimmed the Celtics’ series lead to 2-1, guard Terry Rozier said he believes his team got a much-needed wake-up call. “We needed to get our butts whooped,” Rozier said.
www.espn.com – NBA
Source: Quinn intends to leave BU for Rangers
David Quinn, who has coached BU to three NCAA regional finals in five seasons, informed officials he intends to leave for the Rangers job, a source told ESPN.
www.espn.com – NHL
Cavs finally unlocked, match LeBron’s intensity to claim Game 3
In a make-or-miss postseason, Cleveland’s shots finally went down, as LeBron James notched 12 assists and the Cavs went 17-of-34 from the 3-point line to claim their first win of the Eastern Conference finals.
www.espn.com – TOP
QB Manziel: ‘Here to make most of’ CFL chance
Johnny Manziel announced Saturday that he has decided to sign his contract with the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats, who own the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback’s rights.
www.espn.com – NFL
Why players across the NBA think Jose Calderon is worth $2.2 billion
An internet mix-up led to Jose Calderon briefly showing up on Google with a net worth of $ 2.2 billion, leading to endless jokes in Cleveland.
www.espn.com – NBA
Why the Vegas Golden Knights should be Canada’s team
From a Canadian-heavy roster to their style of play, the Golden Knights — not the Winnipeg Jets — should be Canada’s rooting interest.
www.espn.com – NHL
Who will be your NFL team’s 2018 MVP? 32 way-too-early picks
David Johnson. Carson Wentz. Odell Beckham Jr. Who will have the greatest impact on every team’s season? NFL Nation reporters make their picks.
www.espn.com – NFL
5-on-5: Should the Warriors be worried about Steph?
Are we headed for a Warriors-Celtics NBA Finals? What’s up with Stephen Curry? Our NBA experts answer the pressing questions in the conference finals.
www.espn.com – TOP
Home-ice disadvantage? Why road teams have been winning more
It doesn’t matter how raucous crowds have been in this year’s NHL playoffs — home teams are having a hard time getting the job done.
www.espn.com – NHL
ESPN Forecast: Who makes, who wins NBA Finals?
Who are the new favorites to make the NBA Finals, and who will win the title? Our panel makes predictions.
www.espn.com – NBA
Brad Stevens or a superstar player: Whom would you take?
Kevin Pelton answers questions on the value of the Celtics’ head coach, playoff defense and hot 3-point shooting.
www.espn.com – TOP
QB Confidence Index: How NFL teams feel about their depth
With an MVP candidate and Super Bowl MVP, Philly feels great about its QB depth. The Bills and Jets can’t relate. Where does your team rank?
www.espn.com – NFL
NFL to vote on replay review for all ejections
NFL owners will vote next week on a proposal to make all player ejections subject to replay review.
www.espn.com – NFL
Harden: Focusing on our game, not Warriors
James Harden and his Rockets teammates are confident they can win the Western Conference finals, especially after improved intensity helped them to a Game 2 win Wednesday night.
www.espn.com – NBA
Top 2018 NHL draft prospects at each skill
Looking at this season’s draft class, who is the best of the best in each skill area?
www.espn.com – NHL
Defiant Rockets rewarded for ignoring calls for change
After being challenged to make sweeping adjustments, Mike D’Antoni and the Rockets stuck with what worked all season in a critical Game 2 win.
www.espn.com – TOP
Lightning get back on track after Game 3 win
After dropping two games at home, the Lightning corrected course and took down the Capitals for a crucial Game 3 win in the Eastern Conference finals.
www.espn.com – NHL
Suns land No. 1 overall pick; Kings, Hawks next
After winning just 21 games this season, the Suns got their biggest win of the year Tuesday, grabbing the No. 1 overall pick in June’s NBA draft.
www.espn.com – NBA
Heavy lies the East crown, a burden Boston has yet to weigh
Up 2-0 in the Eastern Conference finals, the Celtics are showing the vigor of an upstart contender. Meanwhile, LeBron James once again looks mired in the morass of organizational fatigue.
www.espn.com – TOP
NFL Insiders predict: Teams that are worse after offseason moves
The Legion of Boom’s reign is officially over, and Seattle is left with defensive holes to fill. Our Insiders weigh in on teams that have declined.
www.espn.com – NFL
Insiders predict: The most improved team in 2018
The Browns have had a busy offseason. Will their work pay off? Our Insiders weigh in on who helped themselves the most in free agency and the draft.
www.espn.com – NFL
Curry ‘all right’ with being targeted by Harden
Rockets star James Harden was spectacular Monday night, but it wasn’t enough to stop Stephen Curry and the Warriors from pulling away with a crucial Game 1 win.
www.espn.com – NBA
Secret to Capitals’ success: Ovechkin’s superstitions?
The Capitals are up 2-0 on the Lightning, and Ovi has been playing some of the best hockey of his life. Is it all thanks to “hot laps” and a stool?
www.espn.com – NHL
It takes one game for Warriors to reassert their superiority over Rockets
Houston had a great regular season, even better than Golden State’s. But it took the Warriors just 48 minutes to get home-court advantage back.
www.espn.com – TOP
Lightning, facing 2-0 hole, blame tentative play
The Lightning find themselves in a 2-0 hole to the Capitals in the Eastern Conference finals. Since 1974-75, only two teams have rallied from such a deficit in 41 conference final/semifinal series.
www.espn.com – NHL
Three-time NFL Coach of Year Knox dies at 86
Chuck Knox, a three-time NFL Coach of the Year whose career included stints with the Rams, Bills and Seahawks, died at age 86 after suffering from dementia, the Seahawks confirmed Sunday.
www.espn.com – NFL
Celtics’ early burst leads to Game 1 rout
Boston handed LeBron James the largest halftime deficit of his postseason career en route to a dominant series-opening win.
www.espn.com – NBA
Horford finally gets the best of the Cavs
Al Horford has seen his season end at the hands of the Cavaliers for three straight postseasons. Judging by his Game 1 performance, Horford has perhaps had enough.
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Wood: Lions followed law with Patricia hiring
Lions president Rod Wood said his team followed the law when it came to how it approached the hiring process with Matt Patricia earlier this year, even if they didn’t uncover a 22-year-old aggravated sexual assault indictment.
www.espn.com – NFL
NBA lottery machine: Mock draft for every scenario
Feeling lucky? With the lottery next week, ESPN Insider Jonathan Givony breaks down more than 2,000 scenarios. See what happens if your team wins No. 1.
www.espn.com – NBA
Predators’ Fisher retires again after 18 seasons
Mike Fisher, who came out of retirement in February and helped the Predators to the brink of the Western Conference finals, announced Saturday that he is hanging his skates up for good after 18 seasons.
www.espn.com – NHL
Predicting who wins Celtics-Cavs, and why
How can the Celtics slow down LeBron and pull the upset? Which team has the better supporting cast? Our NBA experts break it down and make predictions.
www.espn.com – TOP
NBA draft lottery: Likely picks, odds and stakes for every team
What’s at stake for the 15 teams in Tuesday’s draft lottery? We break down the likely picks, odds and questions.
www.espn.com – NBA
Experts’ predictions: Conference finals, Stanley Cup picks
Our NHL experts — including Barry Melrose, John Buccigross, Linda Cohn, Steve Levy, Emily Kaplan, Greg Wyshynski and Adnan Virk — forecast the conference finals and Cup winners.
www.espn.com – NHL
The scariest three minutes in the NBA
By the time opponents know what’s hit them, it’s already too late. This is how the Warriors crush — and how the NBA fails to fight back.
www.espn.com – TOP
The crazy underworld of NFL undrafted free agency
Even before the last draft pick is made, everybody’s phone is ringing as undrafted free agency is well underway for teams, agents and NFL hopefuls.
www.espn.com – NFL
The Predators’ offseason game plan
The Predators ran into a tough Jets team and are out of the playoffs early. Here’s how they get better for next season.
www.espn.com – NHL
Predictions: Who will make the Finals?
Are we getting a Warriors-Cavs Finals rematch? Will the Rockets or Celtics break through? Our panel predicts the winners and the number of games.
www.espn.com – NBA
Even in defeat, Yankees make opposition sweat it out
The Bombers can’t win them all, but their relentless attack keeps the pressure on until the final out.
www.espn.com – TOP
NFL Insiders predict: Fantasy studs drafted after Round 1
Kareem Hunt and Alvin Kamara were Day 2 picks who ran wild in Year 1. Will Royce Freeman be next? Here are our picks for midround stars and more.
www.espn.com – NFL
Vegas rising: Fast facts on the NHL’s hottest team
Just tuning in to watch the Golden Knights’ historic run? We get you up to speed here with the players, events and records you need to know.
www.espn.com – NHL
Revamped Celtics hope they’ve closed gap with new-look Cavs
The Celtics have waited a year — one filled with twists and turns — to get another shot at the Cavs in the playoffs. Now they have their chance.
www.espn.com – TOP
Setting up QB battles: Who’s leading, where rookies stand
They’re all looking up at veterans on the depth chart, but it’s just a matter of time before first-round QBs get a shot. Here’s what’s ahead for each.
www.espn.com – NFL
Embiid assures 76ers have ‘a bright future’
Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons are confident that the 76ers are on the right path despite being eliminated by the Celtics.
www.espn.com – NBA
2018 Frozen Four: Each team’s keys to victory
The puck drops on the Frozen Four this weekend in St. Paul, as Notre Dame, Ohio State, Michigan and Minnesota-Duluth battle for a national title. Chris Peters previews the teams ahead of the action, looking at players to watch and how each team stacks up.
www.espn.com – NHL
Titans hope new uniforms further build identity
Set to celebrate their 20th season in Tennessee, the Titans unveiled their new uniforms Wednesday night in front of a raucous crowd in Downtown Nashville. The team has branded the uniforms as “tradition evolved.”
www.espn.com – NFL
Raptors put squeeze on Celtics, strengthen hold on top seed
Toronto held Boston to 33 first-half points and was never challenged, taking a big step toward securing the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference.
www.espn.com – NBA
ESPN predictions: Who will win the Masters?
There’s a mix of choices as to who will walk away with the green jacket. Some have Rory McIlroy completing the Grand Slam. Some have Justin Rose avenging his playoff loss of a year ago. Oh, and yes, one took the plunge and is riding with Tiger.
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Irish’s Ogunbowale hits shot of a lifetime … again
Ogunbowale had struggled with her shot all game, and Notre Dame’s final play was designed for a teammate. So how did Ogunbowale, confidence never wavering, end up hitting the greatest last-second shot in championship game history?
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What’s real and what should you forget? Your guide to Opening Day’s outcomes
Between bullpen blowups and huge homers, 2018 started with a bang, though none bigger than new Yankee Giancarlo Stanton’s two titanic home runs.
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Schedule alert! Every game that tired teams should lose in March
How much did the schedule affect teams in February, and who should be on alert in March? Big games featuring the Warriors, Lakers, Cavaliers and Raptors stand out.
www.espn.com – NBA
Power Rankings: Who’s closer to the Cup edition
The NHL trade deadline has passed. The contenders, pretenders and lottery fodder are clear at this point. In this week’s rankings, we look whether teams have crept closer to winning the Stanley Cup or have fallen further from it.
www.espn.com – NHL
Combine preview: Targets, positions of need for every team
With the scouting combine kicking off this week, NFL Nation reporters take a closer look at the positions of need for all 32 teams.
www.espn.com – NFL
Cards’ Padgett after loss: ‘About the toughest’
After watching his Louisville Cardinals turn a four-point lead into a one-point loss in the final 0.9 seconds, interim coach David Padgett said, ‘That’s about the toughest loss I’ve ever had.’
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NBA Power Rankings: Post-deadline movers and shakers
A busy trade deadline sent waves through the league. After a flurry of moves — and an impressive debut — where does new-look Cleveland fall now?
www.espn.com – NBA
Players to watch in Olympic men’s hockey
The 2018 men’s Olympic hockey tournament gets underway Wednesday, but you might not recognize too many names on the Pyeongchang ice. Chris Peters looks at players to watch, including some intriguing prospects.
www.espn.com – NHL
Iguodala, West, Draymond run huddles in rout
Steve Kerr took a breather from coaching in the Warriors’ game Monday night against the Suns, handing off his clipboard to Andre Iguodala in the first quarter. David West and Draymond Green also took their turns at the helm.
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Trade Foles, cut Dez and let Cousins walk? Offseason moves for each NFC East team
Can Philly get a second-round pick for the Super Bowl MVP? Will Dallas’ top receiver take a pay cut? Can Washington get anything for its star quarterback? Here are five offseason moves to improve each NFC East team.
www.espn.com – NFL
How would Canadian, American Olympic teams fare in the NHL?
Neither Team USA nor Team Canada would compete for the Stanley Cup, but the players’ career NHL data can be used as a starting point to identify each team’s strengths and weaknesses and project how they will do collectively in the tourney.
www.espn.com – NHL
49ers LB Foster arrested again; bail set at $75K
49ers linebacker Reuben Foster has been arrested for the second time in less than a month. Police say he faces domestic violence and assault weapon charges.
www.espn.com – NFL
Why did we get the Kyrie Irving trade so wrong?
Kevin Pelton had the Cavs acing the Kyrie Irving trade when it went down. What went wrong, and what happened to Isaiah Thomas and Jae Crowder?
www.espn.com – NBA
Cavs kick off their new era with a statement win in Boston
New Cavs Jordan Clarkson, George Hill, Larry Nance Jr. and Rodney Hood all contributed in a blowout win for LeBron James and Cleveland over Eastern Conference rival Boston.
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What the heck is going on with the Rangers?
As the dust settles after a dizzying 24 hours in New York, Greg Wyshynski details why the Rangers are waving the white flag — and what’s next for guys like Mats Zuccarello. Plus, why Patrice Bergeon’s line is among the best ever and more Jersey Fouls.
www.espn.com – NHL
10 predictions for 2018 NFL season: Future Jet Kirk Cousins?
So long, 2017 season. We’re on to 2018. The Jets are going to break the bank for the best quarterback on the market. The Browns, meanwhile, will add two QBs. We get out the crystal ball.
www.espn.com – NFL
Thomas: ‘I got my powers back’ in Lakers debut
Isaiah Thomas said he didn’t want to mess anything up for the Lakers, but the newly acquired guard showed flashes of his old form, even though the team had its four-game win streak snapped against the Mavericks on Saturday.
www.espn.com – NBA
Kerr on being fastest in American sports to 250 wins: “I inherited a hell of a team”
Golden State’s victory over the visiting San Antonio Spurs gave Warriors head coach Steve Kerr 250 wins, but he’s deferring to the collection of greatness around him.
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LeBron: ‘No shade’ on former Cavs after trades
LeBron James said he didn’t want to frame Friday’s victory as a celebration, stressing that “it’s a business” and that there’s “no shade” on any of the former Cavs who were traded away this week.
www.espn.com – NBA
NHL playoff chances report: Who’s alive, who’s desperate?
At this point, the target points for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference is around 90. In the West, it’s higher, around 98 points. Here’s a look at the teams currently fighting for those spots, and their chances of making it.
www.espn.com – NHL