The Phoenix Suns have some of the best players in the NBA, including a four-time All-Star, a three-time All-Star, a championship-winning coach, and several skilled role players. However, their performance has been disappointing over the past two months.
The Suns started the season with high hopes of a championship, thanks to their Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. But they are struggling with a 17-19 record as the season hits its midpoint.
General manager James Jones and owner Mat Ishbia now face a tough decision as the February 6 trade deadline approaches: should they stay the course, make small changes, or shake up the roster?
Here’s a look at the Suns’ situation:
The season so far
This past summer, the Suns hired Mike Budenholzer, a coach who won an NBA title with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. He replaced Frank Vogel, who led the Suns to a 49-33 record last season but was swept by the Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
The coaching change seemed to work at first: Durant, Booker, and Beal were all healthy, and the Suns started the season 8-1. But in the ninth game, Durant injured his calf and was sidelined for a few weeks. After that, a series of smaller injuries to various players meant that Budenholzer had to constantly adjust his rotations.
Since that strong start, the Suns have gone 9-18, falling to 12th place in the Western Conference and outside of the playoff race.
So, what’s the problem?
While injuries have played a big part, other issues have also hurt the Suns.
The combination of Durant, Booker, and Beal hasn’t quite clicked over the past season and a half, even though each of them has had good individual performances. Recently, Budenholzer moved Beal to the bench to spread out the scoring, and Beal has had some solid games, though he hasn’t seemed particularly thrilled with the move.
Phoenix Suns- Kevin Durant
“It’s something that is going to take some time,” Budenholzer said. “It’s like everything, there’s been some positives, there’s some things we got to work through and continue to just improve, but obviously it’s something we felt was good for the team and could help us.”
There’s also an issue with the post position. Starting center Jusuf Nurkic is averaging just 8.6 points, his lowest since he was 21 years old in 2016. Nurkic was moved to the bench and didn’t play at all in the Suns’ 123-115 win over the Hawks on Thursday.
Can they trade their way out of this mess?
That’s a tough question.
The Suns have one of the most expensive rosters in the league and very little room to make moves. They’ve also traded away most of their future first-round picks, so their assets are limited.
Beal is making about $50 million this season, while Nurkic is on an $18 million contract, and both players are under contract for next season as well, making them difficult to trade. Beal also has a no-trade clause.
The Suns have been mentioned in trade rumors involving Heat star Jimmy Butler, but from a salary cap standpoint, it would be difficult to acquire him unless Beal is included in the deal.
The best trade options are probably Durant and Booker, but the Suns don’t seem eager to trade either player.
The next steps
Since Beal was moved to the bench, the Suns have won two of their last three games, and they have a chance to improve with upcoming home games against the Jazz and Hornets this weekend.
If Phoenix can get above .500 in the next couple of weeks, the front office may decide to stick with the current roster and make only small adjustments. Otherwise, they might be forced to make bigger changes.
Miami Dolphins players celebrates after a touchdown in the 1st half
Miami Dolphins players were thrilled to see quarterback Tua Tagovailoa back on the practice field Wednesday, especially wide receiver Tyreek Hill.
Tagovailoa practiced for the first time since suffering a concussion on September 12. He was placed on injured reserve the following week and missed the next four games.
The NFL’s leading passer from last season is now eligible to return from IR, and Hill said Tagovailoa’s return made everything feel normal again.
“He looked great. Felt like old times,” Hill said. “Me and him connected on a few deep shots today, and that kind of got me feeling good today. I missed that and I missed him. I told him I’ve got to take him and his wife to dinner because I missed him so much. S— was so beautiful, that s— almost made me cry today like just having him in the lineup, having him call the plays, having him direct the offense, like just hearing his voice.”
Miami has struggled in the four games without Tagovailoa, going 1-3. During this stretch, the Dolphins’ offense has ranked last in scoring, 31st in offensive expected points added, and 29th in yards per game.
Hill’s own performance has dipped without Tagovailoa. He is on track for just 833 receiving yards, his lowest total since his rookie season.
After connecting with Tagovailoa on several deep passes during practice, Hill’s excitement spread to the locker room. Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle said that Tagovailoa completed nearly every pass he threw to Hill, and when they are in sync, “it normally leads to big plays.”
“It was beautiful. It was so beautiful,” Hill said. “I bet if you go ask every guy in this locker room, just say, ‘Hey, did Tua connect with Tyreek today?’ And if they say, ‘Yeah,’ the next question should be, ‘What was his reaction right after that?’ I just had a big cheese on my face because it just felt so good. Like y’all don’t know what it does to me.”
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., second from right, talks with wide receiver Tyreek Hill, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and running back De’Von Achane during practice
Tagovailoa’s injury occurred when he took contact after a scramble against the Buffalo Bills in Week 2. Both he and coach Mike McDaniel agreed that he needs to protect himself better on the field going forward.
Hill joked that he and his teammates remind Tagovailoa to slide often, and they think Dolphins fans should cheer for him when he does. Running back Raheem Mostert also shared the same message, saying that Tagovailoa has to take responsibility for his actions on the field.
“Oh yeah, we’ve been talking to him ever since his injury,” Mostert said. “I’ve been telling him, ‘Hey, you need to work on sliding.’ And we all joke around and laugh, but on a serious note, he knows that he has to protect himself a little bit better and moving forward, only he can control those things.
We can say those things to him until we’re blue in the face, but one thing that I would say that’s always my saying is, ‘Hey, you can bring a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink, right?’
“We’re going to bring Tua to that water, but we can’t make him drink. He has an understanding of that, and moving forward, he’s going to do his best.”
Tagovailoa was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. On Thursday, he was upgraded to a full participant and can now meet with an independent neurological consultant to get final clearance to play.
Tagovailoa, the No. 5 pick in the 2020 NFL draft, said he has been symptom-free since the day after his concussion, which was the third diagnosed concussion of his NFL career.
The New York Sirens have announced that they will make the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, their main home for the second season of the PWHL. This decision, announced on Friday, follows the team’s split use of three different rinks during their inaugural season.
The team struggled to attract fans while playing some home games in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and at the Islanders’ UBS Arena. They finished the season at Prudential Center, where they had their best crowd of 5,132 on April 20.
“We saw last season how quickly Prudential Center and our loyal fans could create an electrifying atmosphere,” said Sirens general manager Pascal Daoust. “Our players and staff are thrilled and can’t wait to play again in this high-class venue and call this place home for the upcoming season.”
According to a pricing chart shared with season-ticket holders, the Sirens will play 13 of their 15 home games at the Prudential Center.
New York Sirens logo
The PWHL has not yet released its full schedule, but the league will expand from 24 to 30 games per team this season, starting in early December. There are also plans to have more neutral-site games, following games in Detroit and Pittsburgh last season. The league considered having the Sirens play at least one home game at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
New York finished last in the league last season and used their top draft pick, Canadian national team player and Princeton forward Sarah Fillier, with the No. 1 overall selection in June’s draft.
The Sirens also revealed they will move their training facility to the former practice home of the New Jersey Devils in West Orange, New Jersey.
As the 2024 NWSL season nears its end, the Chicago Red Stars are preparing for the postseason. However, next season, the team will have a new name: Chicago Stars FC, starting in 2025.
This change follows a new chapter for the team, which was bought by Laura Ricketts, co-owner of the Chicago Cubs, last summer. The team also welcomed a new head coach, Lorne Donaldson, who was the former manager of Jamaica’s national team.
The rebranding will include a new crest and merchandise with the new design. The updated crest is different from the Chicago flag, which inspired much of the original Red Stars branding with its blue-and-white stripes and red six-pointed stars.
Chicago’s chief marketing officer, Kay Bradley, explained to The Athletic that Ricketts had planned the rebrand when she purchased the team. It has been in the works for six months.
“The wheels were turning, but obviously we didn’t want to rush it,” Bradley said. “This is a really big moment as we think about the course of the last 12 months of the club. It felt like the right time to signify the future and all we believe is ahead of us from a progress perspective.”
The new look is not only about a fresh start for the team but also about raising awareness in the community. In a video shared on the Red Stars’ social media, the team highlighted the goal of the rebrand: to get more recognition.
“Hey, Chicago,” the video started. “You know this town. But do you know this team?” The Red Stars have shown the greatest improvement in the league this season.
Chicago is changing its name for the first time in the club’s 16-year history
After finishing last in the standings in 2023, the team has earned a playoff spot in 2024. (They are currently sixth in the standings with one game left.) The team set a record this summer with over 35,000 fans attending a match at Wrigley Field.
The new branding aims to help the Red Stars stand out in a competitive sports city like Chicago and make it easier for fans to recognize the team.
“How do we connect this club more closely to the city, if not in proximity, but in ethos and find that emotional connection?” Bradley said. “That was also the reason for pulling stars out (of the last crest), pulling ‘Red’ out of the logo.
Often people shorten our name to ‘Red Stars’, and then the ‘Chicago’ goes away. So by removing ‘Red’ from the name, the short version will be ‘Chicago Stars’, so that we keep that connection with our city.”
The team also consulted with players and fans about the rebrand, seeking their input on what to keep and what to change.
Chicago is now joining other original NWSL teams that have undergone rebrands. NJ/NY Gotham FC, formerly Sky Blue FC, made its change in the 2021 offseason. Seattle Reign FC, which changed names twice due to a location move and a sale to the OL Groupe, returned to its original name and crest this season after another sale.
The Washington Spirit, another original team, will also reveal a rebrand next year. Other teams, like the North Carolina Courage, rebranded after moving to a new city or returning to the league.
The Detroit Lions’ 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the last game of the 2024 regular season had the feel of a playoff matchup.
With this win, the Lions (15-2) secured the No. 1 seed in the NFC and earned home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. This boosts their chances of reaching the Super Bowl and potentially winning their first NFL title since 1957.
“It’s step one,” said Lions quarterback Jared Goff. “We’re proud to be 15-2, NFC North division champs — back to back, one seed, bye week — all that stuff. But this just tick No. 1 and tick No. 2 is next.”
For the first time, the Lions have won consecutive division titles. They will face the lowest remaining NFC seed in the divisional round on Jan. 18 or 19.
Detroit is one of four NFL teams that has never appeared in the Super Bowl, alongside the Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Last season, Detroit won two playoff games for the first time in over 60 years but lost a 17-point lead in the NFC Championship Game against San Francisco.
After losing the first regular-season game ever played between teams with a combined 28 wins, the Vikings (14-3) will travel to play the NFC West champion Los Angeles Rams (10-7) in the wild-card round. This will be the most successful fifth seed in NFL history.
On Sunday, the Green Bay Packers (10-7) will play the Philadelphia Eagles (14-3), and Washington (12-5) will visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7).
One of four teams never to reach the Super Bowl.
Lions Strengths: The Lions have one of the best offenses in the league, averaging 33.2 points per game, which is the highest in the NFL. They tied records for scoring 20+ points in 16 games and 40+ points in six games.
Jared Goff is the first NFL quarterback to complete 75% or more of his passes in nine games in a season and the only one to complete 72% or more of his passes with at least 4,500 passing yards.
Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, along with wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, are the first pair of NFL running backs and wide receivers to each have 1,000 yards from scrimmage in a season.
Minnesota Vikings celebrates after an interception in the 1st half
Pro Bowl offensive linemen Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow lead the way, giving Goff time to throw and creating holes in the running game.
Lions Weaknesses: Detroit’s defense has faced several injuries, including a broken leg for star player Aidan Hutchinson. A dozen defenders are on injured reserve. The defense struggled when the Bills scored 48 points in a shootout win last month.
The Lions allowed 29+ points in five games, and if that happens in the playoffs, they could be eliminated early. However, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn managed to stop the Vikings from scoring in the season finale.
“The opportunity you dream about is being able to win division championships and then the NFC and then ultimately win Super Bowls. That’s what next for us.” — Goff
Philadelphia Eagles’ Strengths: The Eagles are aiming for their second Super Bowl appearance in three years, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts. If Hurts recovers from his concussion, he will make the Eagles a strong contender for their second Super Bowl title.
Saquon Barkley led the NFL in rushing with over 2,000 yards and nearly broke Eric Dickerson’s season rushing record. With receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, the Eagles’ offense is one of the most powerful when healthy.
Cancel the confetti: No one is sure how Jalen Hurts is feeling after suffering a concussion in late December. He missed the last two regular-season games, and his condition is uncertain as the playoffs start.
Saquon Barkley led the NFL in carries, but the Eagles are hoping he isn’t too tired. The Eagles rested their key players in Week 18 to stay fresh. However, their health might not matter if they have to play in Detroit for the NFC Championship Game.
“I didn’t sign here to break Eric Dickerson’s record. I came here to win a Super Bowl.” — Barkley.
Two Super Bowl wins in two appearances: They beat the Raiders 48-21 in Super Bowl 37 and the Chiefs 31-9 in Super Bowl 55.
Plan the parade: Quarterback Baker Mayfield is playing his best football. He ran for a career-high 68 yards last week, threw two touchdown passes, and helped Mike Evans reach 1,000 receiving yards without risking the game as the Buccaneers won the NFC South.
After being discarded by three teams, Mayfield revived his career with the Buccaneers in 2023, having his best season. He completed 71.4% of his passes for 4,500 yards, 41 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. The Buccaneers’ running game, led by rookie Bucky Irving, ranks fourth in the NFL after finishing last in the previous two seasons.
Cancel the confetti: The Buccaneers’ secondary, weakened by injuries, has struggled and was missing three starters toward the end of the season. If they are still out, the Buccaneers will need the defensive line to step up.
“Our goal wasn’t just getting into the playoffs. We want to go all the way. This is a tough, resilient group that’s been tested throughout the year and so we’re built for the playoffs.” — Mayfield.
Two Super Bowl wins in five appearances: They lost to the Steelers 31-19 in Super Bowl 14, beat the Titans 23-16 in Super Bowl 34, lost to the Patriots 20-17 in Super Bowl 36, lost to the Patriots 13-3 in Super Bowl 53, and beat the Bengals 23-20 in Super Bowl 56.
Lift the Lombardi: Few teams have more momentum going into the postseason than the Rams, who won nine of their last 11 games before resting their starters in the regular-season finale. Los Angeles is also healthier than it has been for most of the season.
Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Jack Jones celebrates with teammates after an interception
The Rams’ defense has been playing well with a strong pass rush and smart game planning. They’ve already shown they can beat the Vikings, winning 30-20 in October to become one of only two teams to defeat Minnesota this season.
Cancel the confetti: The Rams’ offense has struggled, scoring only three touchdowns in their last three games before the finale. Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp had average seasons, and the running game struggled whenever parts of the offensive line were missing.
The defense has looked strong, but the secondary is still weak, which could be a problem against top quarterbacks. Los Angeles didn’t look like a Super Bowl contender at the start of the season, and despite a strong finish, they may need another year before they are true contenders again.
“The best part about this, and why people love it, is it’s whoever plays the best in that window of time you’re allotted. If we put it together with some of the guys we have at the right spots and the way that this team is capable of playing, you tell me it’s a 3 1/2-hour window where we get a chance to go compete, I’m saying, ‘I’ll take it, and let’s go swing.'” — Sean McVay.
No Super Bowl wins in four appearances: They lost to the Chiefs 23-7 in Super Bowl 4, lost to the Dolphins 24-7 in Super Bowl 8, lost to the Steelers 16-6 in Super Bowl 9, and lost to the Raiders 32-14 in Super Bowl 11.
Lift the Lombardi: Sam Darnold had a career-changing season, leading a strong passing attack with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson and a solid group of players like Jordan Addison, Jalen Nailor, and tight end T.J. Hockenson. Running back Aaron Jones had a solid season at age 30 and is also a good receiver out of the backfield.
The defense, led by coordinator Brian Flores, forced an NFL-high 24 interceptions during the regular season. Edge rushers Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard, who combined for 36 tackles for loss, and cornerback Byron Murphy, all made the NFC Pro Bowl.
Cancel the confetti: After a strong season, Darnold had a disappointing performance in the final regular-season game, completing only 18 of 41 passes, including 2 for 11 in the red zone. This is not the best way to go into his first playoff game as a starter. The Vikings also have a tough history with postseason kicking, and rookie Will Reichard hasn’t been consistent, missing six of his last 16 field-goal attempts.
“This has been a phenomenal football year for our team, and that locker room is already ready to go. Guys are ready to respond.” — Coach Kevin O’Connell.
Three Super Bowl wins in five appearances: They lost to the Dolphins 14-7 in Super Bowl 7, beat the Dolphins 27-7 in Super Bowl 17, lost to the Raiders 38-9 in Super Bowl 18, beat the Broncos 42-10 in Super Bowl 22, and beat the Bills 37-24 in Super Bowl 26.
Plan the parade: Jayden Daniels is the quarterback Washington has been waiting for. The team’s success will depend on how far Daniels can take them, and he has the potential to lead the Commanders on a strong playoff run.
Detroit Lions players celebrates after an interception
Cancel the confetti: Washington’s run defense has been weak, ranking 30th in the NFL, which could lead to an early exit. The pass defense is also a problem, as shown in their Week 1 loss to Baker Mayfield.
“The pieces are there. It’s just about how fast can we mesh it together, and that’s what coach challenged us to do: How fast can we build our brotherhood and put it on display? And we’ve done that. What you see on Sundays is a translation of that. It’s just about guys buying into it, loving each other and playing for the guy next to him.” — Safety Jeremy Reaves
Four Super Bowl wins in five appearances: They beat the Chiefs 35-10 in Super Bowl 1, beat the Raiders 33-14 in Super Bowl 2, beat the Patriots 35-21 in Super Bowl 31, lost to the Broncos 31-24 in Super Bowl 32, and beat the Steelers 31-25 in Super Bowl 45.
Lift the Lombardi: The Packers had a strong record, going 10-1 against teams outside of their tough NFC North division. After losing to the Eagles 34-29 in their season opener, they won all 10 of their non-division games. Their 37 playoff wins are second only to San Francisco.
Hold the confetti: Quarterback Jordan Love hurt his right elbow in the regular-season finale and didn’t return to the game. The Packers also lost their top receiver, Christian Watson, to a torn ACL in that game.
Star cornerback Jaire Alexander is out after knee surgery, and two other defensive starters, linebacker Quay Walker and safety Evan Williams, missed the past three games. Despite these injuries, the Packers struggled within the division, going 1-5, including losses to the Lions and Vikings.
“Christian is one of the best players on this team, I feel like everybody in our room can step up. We have a lot of playmakers in that room. We’ll be ready for sure.”
Chicago Bears players celebrates after a touchdown in the 1st half
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles is in charge of finding the team’s next head coach and is open to exploring all possibilities to find the right candidate.
When asked during his season-ending press conference on Tuesday if he would consider trading for a head coach, Poles said, “We’ll look at all avenues to get the best coach here.”
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell is reportedly receiving interest from multiple NFL teams. O’Connell, 39, stated on Monday that he wants to stay in Minnesota, but the idea of teams potentially using draft picks to trade for him has sparked discussion.
The Bears will begin their first round of interviews this week, considering both college and NFL candidates. Poles emphasized four key traits he is looking for in the new head coach: clear vision, a developmental mindset, strong game management, and a plan to develop a quarterback. He also mentioned that some surprising names will be considered, as the team is casting a “wide net” in their search.
“We’re looking for clear vision, a developmental mindset, really good game management, and obviously a plan to develop a quarterback is going to be a key part of that as well,” Poles said. “There’s going to be some names that you don’t expect that are going to surprise you because we’re digging deeper than we ever have before.”
The Bears recently requested an interview with Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Mario Edwards Jr. celebrates after sacking Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams during the second half
They are also planning interviews with former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, and Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, among others.
The team also sought permission to interview Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, but as of Tuesday, Dallas has not yet responded to the request.
“There’s going to be some names that you don’t expect that are going to surprise you because we’re digging deeper than we ever have before,” Poles said about the coaching search.
Poles also noted that the development of quarterback Caleb Williams will be an important factor in choosing the next head coach. However, he is not focusing solely on hiring an offensive coach, despite the importance of Williams’ development in his second season.
“For a young quarterback, obviously, there’s an ideal fit,” Poles said. “But at the end of the day, you got to look at all the characteristics of what you’re looking for in a head coach, and then you got to see what’s the best bundle of those to bring in the building.
Obviously, we’re talking about leadership, accountability, some of those important things that carry over. Regardless of what the situation is, those have to be there.”
Poles also reflected on the Bears’ 5-12 finish, admitting that the team’s focus shifted too much to outcomes instead of process. He explained that the excitement around landing Williams with the No. 1 pick led the Bears to overlook important details, accountability, and the ability to handle critical moments.
“It has been a long season where those Mondays have been very, very difficult to review after we have come up short,” Poles said. “And I have to take responsibility as the leader of the football operation for that. And I also have to make sure that we find solutions to make sure that we don’t make that mistake again and we can continue to improve.”
Chicago Bears players celebrates after scoring
Bears chairman George McCaskey and president/CEO Kevin Warren reaffirmed that Poles will be in charge of hiring the team’s next head coach.
Along with Poles, the interview panel will include director of football administration Matt Feinstein, senior director of player personnel Jeff King, chief administrative officer Ted Crews, and chief HR officer Liz Geist. Assistant general manager Ian Cunningham will also participate when possible, as he is seeking general manager opportunities.
Although Poles, who was hired in January 2022, did not clarify whether he has received a contract extension, McCaskey stated that having the contracts of the general manager and head coach aligned is not necessary to attract the best candidate.
“I don’t think so. In the interviews that I have participated in, that has never been a factor,” McCaskey said. “No one has ever come in and said, ‘I’m not going to come here unless the general manager and I are on the same timeline.’ So, I don’t think that’s going to be a factor.”
Los Angeles Chargers players celebrates a touchdown in the 1st half
NFL teams and the league’s charity organization are donating a total of $5 million to help people affected by the Los Angeles wildfires, the NFL announced on Friday. The area is still reeling from the destructive fires.
Multiple fires have killed 10 people and destroyed thousands of homes, causing chaos in the city this week.
The Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, and Houston Texans, along with the NFL Foundation, are making the donation. The money will go to local groups helping those impacted by the fires.
“We are heartbroken over the devastating losses experienced by so many in the Los Angeles area and inspired by the heroism of first responders and residents who have supported their neighbors,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement.
Rams players will wear special Los Angeles Fire Department hats and shirts during Monday’s wild card playoff game, which was moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, because of the fires.
Los Angeles Rams celebrates after a touchdown in the 2nd half
“The league did the right thing,” Rams head coach Sean McVay said about the decision to move the game. “And I think it’s a real credit to a lot of people in our organization to be able to seamlessly adjust.”
McVay’s family evacuated their home in Hidden Hills on Thursday because of the wildfire threat. Although his wife, Veronica, and son, Jordan, were unharmed and their house was not damaged, McVay said the evacuation made the situation feel more real.
“When you see as the smoke rose up yesterday, there were a lot of guys that live in proximity and that hits home in a different way,” he said. “As soon as I knew Veronica and Jordan were good, I was good as well.”
Kansas City Chiefs players celebrates in the 2nd half
The AFC playoff picture is set. The Kansas City Chiefs will host the Houston Texans in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs.
After the Texans defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 32-12 on Saturday and the Denver Broncos lost to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, the Texans secured the No. 4 seed and will travel to Kansas City. This sets up a rematch less than a month after the Chiefs beat the Texans 27-19 at Arrowhead.
While the Chiefs host Houston, the Buffalo Bills, as the two-seed, will play the three-seed Baltimore Ravens, who won their Saturday game in a blowout against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
On Friday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid spoke to the media about how the team was preparing for the possible matchups in the divisional round.
“We actually have played, which is crazy, but we’ve played all the teams that are in the [AFC] playoffs,” Reid said. “You’ve got to go back, though. You can’t be content with that. The four teams that we have a chance to potentially play in a couple weeks here, we’ve tried to hammer those out.
We’re going to continue to do that until we find out what the results are probably Sunday night, somewhere in that area, or at least late afternoon, I would imagine.”
“We’ll figure it out and see where it goes, but we’re going to try to be ready for all of them while we have this time. We’ve tried to use it smart as a coaching staff, [but] at the same time, we want to make sure our players are fresh but still stay sharp.
Houston Texans players celebrate after the win
They worked [Friday] in pads, and they’ll go [Saturday]. Sunday, regardless of whether it’s a Saturday game or a Sunday game, they’ll have Sunday off.”
Before the wild-card weekend started, Mark Van Sickle of Kansas City Chiefs On SI discussed how the Texans could still be dangerous, despite a major loss in their first matchup with the Chiefs.
“The Texans were never really challenged by anyone in their weak division, and despite many injuries throughout the season, they won the division with ease,” Van Sickle wrote. “The Chiefs and Texans had a good first-half battle in Kansas City less than a month ago, but the Chiefs were able to break away in the second half.”
“Dynamic wide receiver Tank Dell suffered a season-ending injury in Kansas City, and Houston will need to rely on their running game with Joe Mixon if they are going to advance in the playoffs. Wide receiver Nico Collins gives quarterback C.J. Stroud a nice receiving option and tight end Dalton Schultz gave the Chiefs some trouble in their first meeting.”
Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell dribbles during the first half
Andrew Nembhard scored 19 points, Pascal Siakam added 18 points and nine rebounds, and the Indiana Pacers ended the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 12-game winning streak with a 108-93 victory on Sunday night.
The two teams will meet again Tuesday night in Indianapolis to complete their home-and-home series.
Myles Turner contributed 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Jarace Walker came off the bench to score eight points and grab 12 rebounds, helping Indiana win their sixth straight game. The Pacers held Cleveland to a season-low point total and outscored them 68-40 in the second half.
“There was nothing to lose, this is the best team in the league right now,” Nembhard said about the Cavaliers after the game in an on-court interview with FanDuel Sports Network. “We had to play hard, play together, and put some more physicality in the game on the defensive side of the ball, and play off of that.”
Cleveland’s loss ended their 12-game winning streak, their first defeat since December 8 at Miami. They are now 33-5 overall and 20-2 at home at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
“What disappointed me was our first half was phenomenal, defensively, and then the second half, we fell off,” said Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson. “So, we couldn’t sustain our defense. Just disappointed.”
Zion Williamson dribbles around Pascal Siakam in the 2nd half
Darius Garland led Cleveland with 20 points and seven assists, Donovan Mitchell scored 19 points, and Evan Mobley had 16 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough.
“We were connected (on defense),” Nembhard said. “We didn’t fool around, even when we made mistakes, we helped out each other, and just made the next play.”
The win came at a cost for the Pacers as All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who has played in all 40 games this season and leads the team with 8.9 assists and 35.0 minutes per game, sat out the second half due to left hamstring tightness. Haliburton had two points and five assists before leaving the game.
With the rematch just two days away, Indiana coach Rick Carlisle praised Cleveland’s depth and style under Atkinson, saying, “They don’t have any weaknesses. I mean, you can’t find any. All of their guys can score and those guys play defense, too.”
Sacramento Kings Interim Head Coach Doug Christie draws out a play before an NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks
The Kings are on a strong run after securing their seventh straight win on Sunday against the Chicago Bulls. This victory improved their record to 7-1 under interim coach Doug Christie and pushed them above .500 for the first time since November 21.
returned to the starting lineup for Sacramento at the United Center after missing three games due to injury. Fox shared how Christie’s approach has energized the team following their 124-119 win.
“He’s bringing a type of energy that’s a little bit contagious,” Fox said when asked about what has changed for the Kings under Christie. “I mean, like I said before, he’s the same guy that he was, but whenever you’re at the front of the helm, I feel like you’re probably feeling it a little more.”
“But we’ve got a good thing going right now, so you want to continue to play at a high level. And playing this team, obviously Zach [LaVine] been doing what he’s been doing, but I mean, they’ve been playing at a high level as well. So to be able to come in here and get a win is always good.”
Since Christie took over after Mike Brown’s firing, he has helped the Kings bounce back from a six-game losing streak. Their first win under Christie came against the Dallas Mavericks on December 30, and now, during this seven-game streak, Sacramento is averaging an NBA-best 50.3 rebounds, along with 121.6 points per game (second) and 9.4 steals per game (third) (h/t NBA TV).
Fox and teammate DeMar DeRozan both explained how Christie’s simplified offense has helped the Kings get into a rhythm on the court, as Sacramento recorded 33 assists and just seven turnovers against the Bulls.
De’Aaron Fox (NBA)
“Obviously you’re just trying to get high drags, point actions — it’s stuff that everybody in the league basically runs, but you have to be able to do it with pace, and you have to be able to attack every single time that you’re going down the court,” Fox said.
“So those are just the little nuances of [Christie’s offense]. If you watch Memphis play, that’s pretty much all they do. They’re not running a ton of plays. They have a bunch of guys that can shoot the ball and get downhill, and that’s what they do at a high level. So that’s kind of something that we’re doing right now, and I think we’re doing it at a high level.”
“Doug just tells us, ‘Go out there and just bring your game’ when we play,” DeRozan said after the game. “That’s all. That’s what he says, ‘Just bring your game. I can’t teach y’all how to play. Y’all know how to play,’ you know? And him putting that trust in us and having a selfless group like we have, that’s the outcome that you get.”
The Kings’ trust in playing to their strengths has worked throughout the seven-game streak and helped them deliver a clutch performance on Sunday. Fox and DeRozan combined for 18 points in the fourth quarter, and despite the lead changing 28 times, Sacramento held a 114-113 lead with 5:42 left and never gave it up.
The entire team contributed, with Fox leading the way with 26 points and DeRozan adding 21 against his former team. Domantas Sabonis finished with a 22-point, 15-rebound double-double, Malik Monk had 18 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, and Keegan Murray chipped in 14 points, including three 3-pointers.
“Just allowing them to play to their strengths,” Christie said after the win. “I think sometimes we get into actions that aren’t really actions. Just get to the business; there’s no need to do a lot of other stuff on top of the fact that we want to drive, kick, swing and move the basketball. So it gives us more time to do that, allowing them to just kind of use their special talents.”
“I mean, Fox is fast. He can handle the basketball and get to the rack. Malik is the same way. DeMar is one of the best iso players in the game, so you put him in position. Domas’ rolling ability. When you go down the list — Keegan’s shooting.
Sacramento Kings (NBA)
We got some defenders on the wings. All those different things, trying to just — don’t make it hard. Just go get at it, and we live with the results. And on the other end of the floor, let’s lock arms and play really hard on that end.”
After Christie moved from assistant coach to interim coach, DeRozan recently shared a highlight reel of Christie’s NBA playing days with the team. He did this to show the Kings that Christie had once done the very things he now asks of them, and DeRozan believes it has had a positive effect.
For Christie, DeRozan’s gesture shows the strong bond within the team.
“I would tell you it’s priceless, man,” Christie said about DeRozan showing the video. “I mean, that’s the type of trust, love, and respect I want out of all of them, but having that time with DeMar in the summer, watching how he gets down, and then really just always being a hundred with him and trusting him to do his thing.
For him to show that in that moment, it says a lot about who he is, but it says a lot about our team and what we’re trying to [do].”
“It’s together. I’m not separate as a coach. They’re not separate as players. They have their room. I have my room, but at the same time, we are together as one. It’s not a hand, it’s a fist.”
Green Bay Packers celebrates after a field goal in the 2nd half
By the end of the game, the Green Bay Packers had lost their top two remaining wide receivers, a couple of offensive linemen, and a starting defensive tackle.
The bigger issue, however, was that their once-promising season was already over before they lost those five players.
In a game that mirrored many of the losses the seventh-seeded Packers suffered during the regular season against the NFC’s top teams, their struggling offense and some poor special teams play caused them to lose again in Sunday’s 22-10 wild-card defeat to the second-seeded Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
Even though they won two more games this year compared to last season, the feeling after Sunday’s loss was much more discouraging than the previous year. In 2024, the Packers only won nine regular-season games but ended the season strong, winning six of their last eight games to make the playoffs before losing in the final minute of the divisional round.
“I think it’s tough to say right now after a loss,” said Packers quarterback Jordan Love when asked about the difference between this season and last season. “I don’t know if I’d say it’s pointing down.”
The Packers were down 10-0 to the Eagles in the third quarter when wide receiver Romeo Doubs suffered a concussion. Doubs had fallen hard in the end zone after a potential touchdown pass was broken up and didn’t return after being diagnosed with his second concussion of the season. The Packers ended that drive with a field goal, their first points of the game, with 5:46 left in the third quarter.
Romeo Doubs and Devon Witherspoon in the 2nd half
By then, they were already without left guard Elgton Jenkins, who had suffered a shoulder injury in the first quarter. The Packers tried two replacements: rookie Travis Glover, who was pulled after committing three penalties, and Kadeem Telfort, who finished the game but also added a holding penalty.
In total, the Packers were penalized for five holding calls, tying their most in a game since Matt LaFleur became head coach in 2019.
The Packers were down 16-3 when wide receiver Jayden Reed left in the third quarter due to a shoulder injury and didn’t return. After the game, Reed confirmed that he had dislocated his shoulder. With Christian Watson already out with a torn ACL the previous week, Love was left without his top three receivers by the end of the game.
The Packers also lost center Josh Myers in the fourth quarter due to what appeared to be a serious knee injury. However, Myers later said it wasn’t as bad as it seemed, although he couldn’t return to the game. He mentioned that the injury might be a hairline fracture in his lower leg. Myers also revealed that he played the second half of the season with a torn pectoral muscle.
“So frustrating, man,” said Myers, who will become a free agent this offseason. “It’s such a long year, there’s so much that goes into it that it’s just incredibly disappointing.”
“Just felt like we didn’t have any rhythm, felt like we were just shooting ourselves in the foot. We were getting penalties, we were turning the ball over. All the stuff you can’t do against a team like that, you can’t do.”
On defense, the Packers lost lineman Devonte Wyatt, one of their top run stoppers, due to a lower leg injury in the first quarter. Despite solid defensive play, they couldn’t generate turnovers and allowed Eagles running back Saquon Barkley to rush for 119 yards on 25 carries.
Jordan Love throws a pass in the 1st half
Love’s second season as the starter ended with a poor performance. He tied a career-high with three interceptions and became the first Packers quarterback to throw three interceptions without a touchdown in a playoff game.
When asked if he made progress this season, which began after signing a four-year, $220 million contract extension, Love said, “That’s a good question.”
“I think there’s obviously areas that I improved on, that the team improved on,” he added. “And there’s some stuff I want to clean up, be better at, for sure.”
This marked the end of a season in which the Packers won 11 games but went 0-6 against the NFC’s top three teams: the Eagles, Lions, and Vikings, losing twice to each.
“All those games, we were right there,” said Packers running back Josh Jacobs, who had 121 total yards and a touchdown. “My biggest message this offseason — from the coaches to the players — is how do we take that step? We figure out how to take that step, ain’t nobody gonna be able to f— with us in this league.”
In many of those games, the Packers were hurt by slow starts, just like the one they had against the Eagles. They finished with four turnovers, starting with a fumble by Keisean Nixon on the opening kickoff.
“I think that’s going to be a great reflection point this offseason because obviously, if we had the answers, it wouldn’t have been a problem,” said LaFleur, whose playoff record dropped to 3-5. “And for it to come up multiple times is disappointing.”
There is no official midseason mark for the NHL season, but with many teams having played 41 games or more, it’s a good time to take another look at each team’s performance based on preseason expectations.
To measure “expectations,” we’re using the over/under point totals for each team from ESPN BET sportsbook.
How we rank: A panel of ESPN hockey commentators, analysts, reporters, and editors votes in a 1-32 poll based on the games through Wednesday, which creates our master list.
Note: The previous rankings are from the Jan. 3 edition. Points percentages and paces are based on Thursday’s games.
Vegas Golden Knights
Previous ranking: 2
Points percentage: 71.95%
Preseason O/U: 97.5
Current points pace: 118.0
The Golden Knights continue to dominate the Western Conference. They are well ahead of their expected point total pace, aiming for a deeper playoff run than last season’s first-round exit.
Next eight days: vs. NYR (Jan. 11), vs. MIN (Jan. 12), @ NSH (Jan. 14)
Washington Capitals
Previous ranking: 3
Points percentage: 70.73%
Preseason O/U: 89.5
Current points pace: 116.0
While the season was supposed to focus on Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s goal-scoring record, the Capitals have shocked everyone by sitting atop the Eastern Conference, far exceeding their expected point total.
Next eight days: vs. MTL (Jan. 10), @ NSH (Jan. 11), vs. ANA (Jan. 14), @ OTT (Jan. 16)
Though they started the season on a blistering pace, the Jets have slowed down but still lead the Central Division, well ahead of their preseason expectations.
Next eight days: vs. LA (Jan. 10), vs. COL (Jan. 11), vs. VAN (Jan. 14), vs. SEA (Jan. 16)
Toronto Maple Leafs
Previous ranking: 9
Points percentage: 65.12%
Preseason O/U: 102.5
Current points pace: 106.8
Despite injuries to key players like Auston Matthews, the Maple Leafs are in first place in the Atlantic Division, with a solid points pace and a new voice behind the bench in Craig Berube.
Next eight days: vs. VAN (Jan. 11), vs. DAL (Jan. 14), vs. NJ (Jan. 16)
The Wild have been one of the biggest surprises this season, showing they are legitimate contenders, even without Hart Trophy candidate Kirill Kaprizov at full strength.
Next eight days: @ SJ (Jan. 11), @ VGK (Jan. 12), vs. EDM (Jan. 15)
Los Angeles Kings
Previous ranking: 5
Points percentage: 67.11%
Preseason O/U: 96.5
Current points pace: 110.1
After a tough playoff loss to the Oilers, the Kings have bounced back and been strong, going 11-2-2 since American Thanksgiving.
Next eight days: @ WPG (Jan. 10), @ CGY (Jan. 11), @ EDM (Jan. 13), @ VAN (Jan. 16)
The Oilers came close to winning the Stanley Cup last season. While they aren’t at the top of the standings, Connor McDavid & Co. remain a top team in the league on any given night.
Next eight days: @ CHI (Jan. 11), vs. LA (Jan. 13), @ MIN (Jan. 15), @ COL (Jan. 16)
The Stars have their sights set on making a deep playoff run, and with a strong points pace, they’re positioning themselves well for that goal.
Next eight days: @ MTL (Jan. 11), @ OTT (Jan. 12), @ TOR (Jan. 14), vs. MTL (Jan. 16)
New Jersey Devils
Previous ranking: 4
Points percentage: 61.36%
Preseason O/U: 101.5
Current points pace: 100.6
After a disappointing 2023-24 season, the Devils are back in the playoff race, with Jack Hughes leading the way. Strong goaltending additions have helped improve their position.
Next eight days: vs. TB (Jan. 11), vs. FLA (Jan. 14), @ TOR (Jan. 16)
Despite the expected Stanley Cup hangover, the Panthers have been dominant, holding a strong position in the Atlantic Division, making them a tough opponent for anyone in the postseason.
Next eight days: vs. BOS (Jan. 11), @ PHI (Jan. 13), @ NJ (Jan. 14), vs. DET (Jan. 16)
After a slow start due to injuries, the Avalanche are back among the league’s best. A recent addition, goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, might be a hidden gem.
Next eight days: @ WPG (Jan. 11), vs. NYR (Jan. 14), vs. EDM (Jan. 16)
Tampa Bay Lightning
Previous ranking: 12
Points percentage: 58.97%
Preseason O/U: 98.5
Current points pace: 96.7
The Lightning might finally miss the playoffs one of these years, but it doesn’t look like this will be the season. They’re still picking up points and maintaining a strong goal differential.
Next eight days: @ NJ (Jan. 11), @ PIT (Jan. 12), @ BOS (Jan. 14), vs. ANA (Jan. 16)
Vancouver Canucks
Previous ranking: 14
Points percentage: 57.50%
Preseason O/U: 99.5
Current points pace: 94.3
The Canucks are dealing with internal issues but have continued to show some strong performances. There’s talk of a possible trade, but will it help them come spring?
Next eight days: @ CAR (Jan. 10), @ TOR (Jan. 11), @ WPG (Jan. 14), vs. LA (Jan. 16)
The Flames, after trading many of their key players in the past year, have found themselves in the thick of the playoff race. A big reason for this is standout rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf, who is in the running for the Calder Trophy.
Next eight days: vs. LA (Jan. 11), @ CHI (Jan. 13), @ STL (Jan. 14), @ STL (Jan. 16)
The Senators are among the “Atlantic rising” teams, and they seem closest to returning to the playoffs. However, the extended absence of goaltender Linus Ullmark could affect their chances.
Next eight days: @ PIT (Jan. 11), vs. DAL (Jan. 12), @ NYI (Jan. 14), vs. WSH (Jan. 16)
Montreal Canadiens
Previous ranking: 23
Points percentage: 51.25%
Preseason O/U: 76.5
Current points pace: 84.1
The Canadiens have become an exciting team to watch, with young players like Lane Hutson and a resurgent Patrik Laine leading the charge, even if they don’t make the playoffs.
Next eight days: @ WSH (Jan. 10), vs. DAL (Jan. 11), @ UTA (Jan. 14), @ DAL (Jan. 16)
Columbus Blue Jackets
Previous ranking: 21
Points percentage: 52.38%
Preseason O/U: 69.5
Current points pace: 85.9
The Blue Jackets weren’t expected to make much of an impact in the Eastern Conference, but they are currently in the race for a wild-card spot at the season’s midpoint.
Next eight days: @ STL (Jan. 11), vs. PHI (Jan. 14), vs. SJ (Jan. 16)
Boston Bruins
Previous ranking: 16
Points percentage: 51.14%
Preseason O/U: 99.5
Current points pace: 83.9
The Bruins’ season started in chaos with Jeremy Swayman’s contract situation and a slow start that led to Jim Montgomery’s firing. Despite that, they are still in the playoff race, though not quite at their expected pace.
Next eight days: @ FLA (Jan. 11), vs. TB (Jan. 14)
St. Louis Blues
Previous ranking: 18
Points percentage: 51.16%
Preseason O/U: 86.5
Current points pace: 83.9
After narrowly missing the playoffs last year, the Blues are still in a similar position this season, as expected.
Next eight days: vs. CBJ (Jan. 11), vs. CGY (Jan. 14), vs. CGY (Jan. 16)
Utah Hockey Club
Previous ranking: 19
Points percentage: 51.25%
Preseason O/U: 87.5
Current points pace: 84.1
The Utah Hockey Club had a strong start that made fans hopeful for a playoff run in their first season. However, their performance has been uneven since then, and they’ll need another winning streak to get back into a wild-card spot.
Next eight days: vs. SJ (Jan. 10), vs. NYI (Jan. 11), vs. MTL (Jan. 14), vs. NYR (Jan. 16)
Detroit Red Wings
Previous ranking: 26
Points percentage: 50.00%
Preseason O/U: 90.5
Current points pace: 82.0
The Red Wings are hoping to make the playoffs soon. To do so, they need to keep winning, especially after their recent five-game winning streak.
Next eight days: vs. CHI (Jan. 10), vs. SEA (Jan. 12), vs. SJ (Jan. 14), @ FLA (Jan. 16)
This could be the last chance for Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang to compete for a championship together. The Penguins are still in the wild-card race, but they need to be more consistent in the second half of the season.
Next eight days: vs. OTT (Jan. 11), vs. TB (Jan. 12), vs. SEA (Jan. 14)
Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)
Philadelphia Flyers
Previous ranking: 22
Points percentage: 46.43%
Preseason O/U: 85.5
Current points pace: 76.1
The Flyers are known for being tough to beat under coach John Tortorella, but they’ve struggled to win consistently. They need to surpass other teams to get into a playoff spot.
Next eight days: vs. ANA (Jan. 11), vs. FLA (Jan. 13), @ CBJ (Jan. 14), @ NYI (Jan. 16)
New York Rangers
Previous ranking: 28
Points percentage: 48.78%
Preseason O/U: 100.5
Current points pace: 80.0
If it weren’t for the Predators, the Rangers would be considered the biggest disappointment this season. After winning the Presidents’ Trophy in 2023-24, they’ve fallen short of expectations so far.
Next eight days: @ VGK (Jan. 11), @ COL (Jan. 14), @ UTA (Jan. 16)
New York Islanders
Previous ranking: 25
Points percentage: 47.56%
Preseason O/U: 91.5
Current points pace: 78.0
After a short playoff appearance last season, the Islanders made few changes over the summer. This has not worked out as expected so far.
Next eight days: @ UTA (Jan. 11), vs. OTT (Jan. 14), vs. PHI (Jan. 16)
While it’s still too early to declare the Ducks’ rebuild over, their progress is visible. Some of their players have been mentioned in trade rumors, but things seem to be improving.
Next eight days: @ PHI (Jan. 11), @ CAR (Jan. 12), @ WSH (Jan. 14), @ TB (Jan. 16)
After a disappointing 2023-24 season, the Kraken replaced coach Dave Hakstol with Dan Bylsma. However, they have not yet shown much improvement and are still outside the playoff picture.
Next eight days: @ BUF (Jan. 11), @ DET (Jan. 12), @ PIT (Jan. 14), @ WPG (Jan. 16)
The Predators have been the biggest letdown this season compared to their preseason expectations. Major changes could be coming before the trade deadline.
Next eight days: vs. WSH (Jan. 11), vs. VGK (Jan. 14), vs. CHI (Jan. 16)
Chicago Blackhawks
Previous ranking: 32
Points percentage: 36.59%
Preseason O/U: 73.5
Current points pace: 60.0
No one expected the Blackhawks to make a playoff run with Connor Bedard in his second season, but their poor results have led to the firing of coach Luke Richardson. The team is still near the bottom of the standings and has many issues to address.
Next eight days: @ DET (Jan. 10), vs. EDM (Jan. 11), vs. CGY (Jan. 13), @ NSH (Jan. 16)
San Jose Sharks
Previous ranking: 31
Points percentage: 37.21%
Preseason O/U: 63.5
Current points pace: 61.0
The Sharks have been one of the most entertaining “bad” teams this season, with a goal differential of minus-41, but they still feature Macklin Celebrini, who impresses with highlight-reel plays almost every game.
Next eight days: @ UTA (Jan. 10), vs. MIN (Jan. 11), @ DET (Jan. 14), @ CBJ (Jan. 16)
