Knicks Mailbag: What's Miles McBride's future with New York?

It's another edition of Knicks Mailbag, with SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley ready to answer your questions surrounding the team. Let's get started...


What’s your read on McBride's future with Knicks? Is he a likely trade piece for a big? Love him but feels hard to see him extended - @SBart_89

**This one is tricky because Miles McBride has definitely earned a raise. He’s outplayed his contract (3 years, $13 million) by a significant amount. The problem here is that the Knicks are up against the NBA’s second apron. According to owner James Dolan, the Knicks will not exceed the second apron in team salary ($221 million) this season. Let’s assume Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart and – eventually – Jalen Brunson sign extensions. With those extensions on the books, the Knicks will have significant money committed to the starting five. 

Landry Shamet and Jose Alvarado are also under contract for multiple seasons. So there isn’t much financial wiggle room for a McBride extension. 

Things can change, of course. Maybe the Knicks move off of future salary in a trade and open up some money. Maybe Dolan and the Knicks decide to increase future spending without regard for the second apron. It's worth noting that the Knicks and McBride’s representatives have been in regular contact ahead of the season. In a perfect world, those conversations would produce a multi-year extension for McBride. 

The longest-tenured Knick, McBride loves New York, loves his teammates; he was an integral part of this team’s rise. The fact that he’ll likely have to play this coming season with contract uncertainty is a shame. 

Yes, McBride on an expiring contract is one of the most valuable trade chips in the league. He would garner significant interest if New York made him available via trade – either in-season or in the offseason. We’re certainly not there yet. But logic tells you that’s where things could be headed. 

 

Feb 5, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Egor Demin (8) dunks during the first quarter against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center.
Feb 5, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Egor Demin (8) dunks during the first quarter against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. / Mike Watters-Imagn Images

Do you think any of the second-year Nets guys are poised for a breakout season? - @Jayis2serious

Have to go with their highest 2025 first-rounder, Egor Demin. He showed the most promise as a rookie and, according to friend of The Putback, Albert Ghim, organizationally, at least one of the Nets’ five first-rounders needs to take a jump this season. If that happens – and lottery pick Markel Brown Jr. shows promise – the Nets will be building a nice foundation amid the rubble of the Kevin Durant-Kyrie Irving-James Harden era.

We all know the starting five and the two or three first guys off the bench, but is there someone you can see on this roster outside of those guys turning into a big-time contributor? - @tbrucato

Just looking at the roster, there is no direct path to minutes for any of the young guys. But last year’s club relied on strong stretches from multiple non-rotation players. Mike Brown didn’t hesitate to go with younger players if a rotation player got hurt or struggled. That said, it’s hard to see any of the young non-rotation players making consistent, significant contributions this season. The top of that rotation seems to be set. One other note on free agent signings ahead of training camp: veteran center Tony Bradley has also been a player on the Knicks' radar. The Knicks do not currently have a third center, but there is a strong degree of confidence internally in the Karl-Anthony Towns-Andre Drummond duo at the position.

** I answered a question from @AndrewA59778512 last week, but I cited @sbart_89 as the reader. My apologies for the mix-up. My opinion on @sbart_89’s background photo remains the same as it was last week. I love it.

Lakers catch stray during Jonathan Kuminga introductory press conference

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Jonathan Kuminga looking thoughtfully to the right with his hand on his chin, Image 2 shows Lakers player Luka Dončić in a yellow jersey with number 77 and bibigo sponsor logo
Jonathan Kuminga explains why he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers during the offseason.

Jonathan Kuminga kept it honest during his introductory presser with the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday afternoon.

“I wanted to go to a winning culture,” Kuminga said after he was asked about his priority, despite having opportunities to sign with other teams for money.

While his comments were not directly aimed at the Los Angeles Lakers, they came after ESPN’s Shams Charania revealed he was offered a 3-year deal for $12 million per season in LA.

Jonathan Kuminga explains why he chose to sign with the Minnesota Timberwolves during the offseason. AP Photo/Ellen Schmidt

Instead, Kuminga signed a 2-year deal that will pay him $6 million per season and includes an option after his first season.

Kuminga said that leading into his decision, he spoke to players and members of front offices of the teams that were interested in him, but felt that the Timberwolves had “the type of vibe I was looking for.”

“I asked God to guide me and give me the best decision, and I think this was the best decision for me,” Kuminga said. “… I think this was one of the best winning cultures I could actually have of all the options.”

After Kuminga signed with the Timberwolves, his agent, Aaron Turner, appeared on the Fan Duel Show “Run it Back” and said that the decision came down to the opportunity Kuminga will have as a full-time starter.

Los Angeles Lakers catch stray during Jonathan Kuminga introdcutory press conference. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Through his five-year career, Kuminga has primarily served as a sixth man, coming off the bench.

Turner noted that with this opportunity, and if Kuminga elects to enforce his player option next season, he will have more leverage for a higher contract next offseason.

Kuminga’s former teammate, Draymond Green, said his decision to spurn the Lakers could get dicey in the future, as he could find himself going back to his role, coming off the bench, if the Warriors start losing games.


Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters

California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn
California Post SportsFacebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X
California Post Opinion
California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!
California Post App: Download here!
Home delivery: Sign up here!Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!


Pirates vs White Sox Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are short road favorites to complete the series sweep over the Chicago White Sox ahead of Thursday's 7:40 p.m. ET first pitch at Rate Field.

My top Pirates vs. White Sox predictions and MLB picks call for Pittsburgh to take the series finale tonight, with the total also going Over the number on Sept. 10.

Who will win Pirates vs White Sox today: Pirates moneyline (51%)

For help understanding probabilities, see our odds calculator.

Pittsburgh Pirates righty Jared Jones has found a groove, boasting a solid 3.65 xERA and 3.11 xFIP across his past four starts.

The Pirates also continue to show off at the plate with a seventh-ranked wOBA and second-ranked xwOBA over the past two weeks. Pittsburgh also ranks second in the majors in wOBA against right-handed pitchers.

It’s a different story for the Chicago White Sox. They rank 25th and 20th, respectively, in the two metrics during the same stretch and are projected to hand the ball to righty Erick Fedde for bulk innings behind opener Hagen Smith.

This will be Smith’s first career start, and Fedde sports a 4.68 xERA and 5.11 xFIP across his past eight appearances while allowing a healthy 38.6% squared-up contact rate and 16.4% blast-contact rate.

I recommend playing the Pirates moneyline to 52.4%.

Covers COVERS INTEL: The Pittsburgh Pirates bullpen xERA and xFIP both rank higher than the Chicago White Sox in the second half, which will be a key factor in a potentially close series finale.

Pirates vs White Sox Over/Under pick: Over 7.5 (53.1%)

While I’m anticipating the Pirates doing the heavy lifting to send this total past the number, the White Sox have also played to the Over in nine of their last 13 home games (+4.40 Units / 30% ROI).

Chicago ranks eighth in ISO against righties for the season, and the AL Central leaders will want to leave it all on the field in an attempt to avoid the series sweep.

The White Sox also average 4.9 runs per game at home compared to 4.5 on the road, so I expect Chicago to chip in offensively at Rate Field.

This Over 7.5 is playable to 54.5%.

Pirates vs White Sox home run prediction: Oneil Cruz (16.7%)

Despite an excellent 15-for-43 run at the dish (.824 OPS), Pirates star Oneil Cruz hasn’t left the yard across his past 11 games.

Cruz is sporting a rock-solid 18.8% blast-contact rate and 40.0% hard-hit rate during the stretch, and his high-end .206 ISO for the year doesn't have drastic splits (.175 against lefties and .222 against righties).

I like the idea of statistical correction kicking in and Cruz homering tonight.

Neil Parker's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 56-30, +28.68 units
  • Over/Under bets:  29-28, -0.79 units

Pirates vs White Sox market trends

Here is how trusted Polymarket traders are dealing tonight's Pirates vs. White Sox matchup, with heavy volume on the Chicago hosts.

Pirates vs White Sox weather

The forecast calls for cloudy skies early before clearing later in the evening, comfortable temperatures around 73F, and a light 5-7 mph northeast wind blowing left to right.

Pirates vs White Sox odds

  • Moneyline: Pirates 52.4% | White Sox 52.4%
  • Run line: Pirates -1.5 (39.2%) | White Sox +1.5 (64.3%)
  • Over/Under: Over 8 (52.4%) | Under 8 (52.4%)

Pirates vs White Sox trend

Pittsburgh has won eight of its last 10 games (+5.10 Units / 35% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Pirates vs. White Sox.

How to watch Pirates vs White Sox and game info

LocationRate Field, Chicago, IL
DateThursday, September 10, 2026
First pitch7:40 p.m. ET
TVSportsNet Pittsburgh, CHSN
Pirates starting pitcherJared Jones
(3-6, 4.46 ERA)
White Sox starting pitcherHagen Smith
(3-1, 0.56 ERA)

Pirates vs White Sox latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Colorado Rockies at New York Yankees game discussion: Ryan Feltner vs. Max Fried

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 4: Starting pitcher Ryan Feltner #18 of the Colorado Rockies delivers a pitch in the first inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field on September 4, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Two games into their September stop at Yankee Stadium, the Rockies have scored four runs, struck out 24 times and lost twice.

The Yankees won the opener 5–3 before taking Game 2 by a 6–1 score.

Tonight gives the Rockies (55–90) one more chance to salvage a game against the Yankees (83–62), avoid the sweep and carry a bit of momentum with them to Detroit.

Ryan Feltner will make his 22nd start in a season that has gone poorly. He is 5–9 with a 5.91 ERA and 1.58 WHIP across 106.2 innings.

Feltner leads with his four-seam fastball and varies his secondary mix from there. He works primarily with the slider and changeup against lefties, then turns to the slider, sinker and sweeper against righties. Lefties have produced a .293/.378/.507 line against him this season, while righties are at .275/.326/.522.

The changeup has been Feltner’s best pitch, producing 41 of his 81 strikeouts, including all five in his last start against St. Louis. Feltner throws it 28% of the time against lefties, compared with just 6% against righties. Against New York’s lefty-heavy lineup, there may be a path for Feltner if he can get ahead of hitters and continue to let the changeup finish things off.

Meanwhile, things won’t be getting any easier for the Rockies’ offense. After being handled by Cam Schlittler and Will Warren in the first two games, Colorado will face Max Fried in the finale.

The left-hander is 4–4 with a 2.73 ERA and 0.99 WHIP. Since returning from injury in July, he has been even better, posting a 1.85 ERA across 34.0 innings with 37 strikeouts.

Fried also works with a deep arsenal. His sinker is the foundation against lefties, while righties see a balanced combination of cutters, four-seamers, changeups, curveballs, sinkers and sweepers.

Unlike Feltner, Fried has dominated hitters from both sides of the plate. Lefties have managed a .152/.218/.177 line against him, while righties are hitting .213/.280/.292. Still, the Rockies will trot out seven batters from the right side against Fried.

Aaron Judge is not in the lineup after playing in the first two games following his return from the injured list. New York is 38–22 in games Judge has played this season and 45–40 without him.

Even without Judge, the Rockies still have plenty to solve on both sides of the ball. Can Feltner ride his changeup through New York’s lefty-heavy lineup while the offense finds a way to get to Fried?

The details…

First pitch: 5:05 p.m. MDT

TV: Rockies.TV

Radio: KOA 850 AM/94.1 FM; KNRV 1150 (Spanish)

Yankees SB Nation:Pinstripe Alley

Lineups:


Join the conversation!

Sign up for a user account and get:

  • Fewer ads
  • Create community posts
  • Comment on articles, community posts
  • Rec comments, community posts
  • New, improved notifications system!

Download the SB Nation app on iOS or Android

Please keep in mind our Purple Row Community Guidelines when you’re commenting. Thanks! 

Champions League: Bayern break down Bodø/Glimt, Como put four past Leipzig

  • Bayern Munich 5-0 Bodø/Glimt, Como 4-1 Leipzig

  • Lens win 3-2 at Slavia Prague with last-gasp double

Bayern Munich opened their Champions League campaign with a 5-0 thrashing of Norway’s Bodo/Glimt.

The six-times winners were frustrated before half-time by Bodo/Glimt but cruised once Jamal Musiala smashed in the opener two minutes into the second period and the floodgates opened.

Continue reading...

Golden Knights Send A Major Message With Braeden Bowman Six-Year Extension

Earlier today, The Hockey News took a closer look at Braeden Bowman’s mindset heading into the 2026-27 season.

The 23-year-old forward wanted to prove he belonged in the Vegas Golden Knights’ long-term plans. He wanted to turn last season’s promising NHL debut into something more permanent and show that he was more than a player simply passing through the lineup.

As it turns out, Bowman didn’t have to wait very long for an answer.

The Golden Knights had already made up their minds.

Vegas general manager Kelly McCrimmon announced Thursday that the organization had signed Bowman to a six-year contract extension worth $3.4 million annually, keeping him under contract through the 2032-33 season.

It is a substantial commitment to a player who, not long ago, was still trying to establish himself within the organization.

Bowman made his NHL debut against the New York Islanders on Nov. 13 and wasted little time making an impression. He scored in three consecutive games and recorded a point in five straight, tying franchise rookie records in both categories. He finished the season with 26 points — eight goals and 18 assists — in 54 games, tying for seventh among Vegas forwards.

But his impact went beyond his initial NHL audition.

Bowman continued to dominate when he returned to the Henderson Silver Knights, recording 26 points in just 20 AHL games during the 2025-26 campaign. Fourteen of those points came during an eight-game stretch in April, earning him AHL Player of the Month honors.

His 1.30 points-per-game rate was the highest among AHL forwards who played at least 15 games last season.

That production helps explain why Vegas was willing to make such a significant investment now.

Bowman wanted this season to be about proving he was worth a permanent place in the Golden Knights’ lineup.

Instead, Vegas just gave him six more years to show exactly why he was worth it.

Braves vs. Rays series recap: Baseball survival tactics on full display down the stretch

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 10: Ha-Seong Kim #7 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates with teammates after the game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Truist Park on September 10, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jack Casey/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It really just feels like each series the Atlanta Braves have been in lately has been like them leaving a snake pit for a lion’s den only to realize that they’ve stepped into a piranha’s pond and escaped that just to find out that the dry land was quicksand. “I don’t know how much more battle-tested we need to be,” quipped Walt Weiss when he was asked by the media during Tuesday’s pregame press conference about the tough schedule that the Braves have been dealing with as of late — and still have to navigate going forward.

Indeed, one of the takeaways from this patch is that the Braves will have faced some of the toughest teams that baseball currently has to offer once they eventually reach the Postseason and they should be more-than-ready to handle whatever’s in front of them. With that being said, the Braves had to deal with another serious test in the form of the Tampa Bay Rays and once the smoke cleared, it was less about acing the test and more like simply doing enough to pass the test. Did Atlanta manage that? Let’s get into it.


Tuesday, September 8

Rays 7, Braves 1

This one was competitive for two innings, as the Braves matched Junior Caminero’s two-out dinger off of AJ Smith-Shawver in the first inning with a run of their own in the bottom half of that frame. The deadlock didn’t last long at all, as the Rays made the third inning a long one for Smith-Shawver. AJSS was one out away from potentially putting two outs on the board against the Rays in that inning. Instead, Liam Hicks sent one flying into the Georgia night sky for a two-run shot. Smith-Shawver was one out away from keeping it at 3-1 before Victor Mesa Jr. hit a bouncer that eluded the glove of Ozzie Albies and dribbled into the infield for an RBI single that made it 4-1.

AJ Smith-Shawver was only able to make it through 3.1 innings with those four runs allowed, but credit is due to Brent Suter for going 3.2 innings while only giving up a single run while he was out there. Elieser Hernández wasn’t as fortunate, as he surrendered two runs across his two innings of work and then got the DFA treatment once the next morning rolled around. It really felt like the Rays were either dinking and dunking or hitting moonshots, there was no in-between in this one.

Meanwhile, a nasty trend for the Braves was emerging while they were on the mound. It’s not particularly shocking that Freddy Peralta ended up going six innings with just one run allowed since he’d done pretty well in two previous starts against Atlanta with the Mets. It wasn’t shocking either to see the Rays bullpen clamp down on the Braves they did on Tuesday, either. What was shocking is that the Braves came out of this game with 11 batted balls that were at least 95-mph that ended up turning into outs. Folks, that’s tough!

Wednesday, September 9

Rays 7, Braves 2

This felt like a near-carbon copy of the first game. The two teams were tied after the first inning, the Rays pulled away shortly after the first inning, Atlanta’s starting pitcher didn’t get deep and the offense was left holding the bag despite hitting the ball hard all night. Indeed, that’s the path that both of these teams doubled back on on this particular night as the Rays once again cruised to another big win. A home run from Victor Mesa Jr., a double steal and then old friend Jorge Mateo slapping one into the outfield off the end of his bat led to three runs in the second for Tampa Bay.

The Rays added three more in the fourth in a way that would’ve had Atlanta fuming considering how their batted ball luck was turning. With two men on and nobody out, Cedric Mullins plated an RBI in similar fashion to how Jorge Mateo did it — he put the bat out there on a ball that was outside of the zone and got rewarded for it. Richie Palacios poked one into the outfield in left to bring home another one of his Rays teammates and then Yandy Díaz’s sacrifice fly made it a 6-0 lead as Reynaldo López’s head was probably spinning.

Drake Baldwin homered off of Griffin Jax in the fourth inning in order to ensure that the Braves didn’t get shut out and then Matt Olson continued to work his way out of his current slump with a sacrifice fly to make it 6-2 in the sixth but by then, the damage had been done — and frustratingly so. Once again, the Braves hit the ball hard all night and received little reward for it. This time, Atlanta saw 12 batted balls that were at least 95-mph end up finding Tampa Bay’s leather instead of the grass. The final out of the game was a 99-mph bullet from Mauricio Dubón that was seemingly magnetized to Richie Palacios’s glove. Dubón used his knee to turn his bat into two separate and large toothpicks in response and the Braves ended up taking an incredibly frustrating series loss.

Thursday, September 10

Braves 3, Rays 1

Martín Pérez and Nick Martinez were in complete and total control in this one for the seven innings in which they participated. Pérez bounced back from a tough start against the Phillies by going out and tossing seven shutout innings against the Rays in this one. Considering how the first two games of this series had gone, Pérez was basically in a situation where he had to come up big and he did so in crucial fashion. Atlanta needed to stabilize things as far as their pitching was concerned and for what feels like the umpteenth time this season, Pérez came through in a big moment for the Braves.

As far as the bats went, today appeared to be the day when Atlanta’s batted ball luck finally turned around. This time, the Braves only had three batted balls of 95-mph or faster end up turning into outs. That’s not to say that things were easy-peasy for Atlanta, though — Nick Martinez was absolutely dominant and cruised through six innings while only having to deal with two baserunners throughout. After retiring Ronald Acuña Jr. in to start the seventh, Martinez had only thrown 68 pitches on the day and seemed well poised to get even deeper into the game.

Instead, the Rays pulled a Rays and manager Kevin Cash went out there and pulled Martinez so that they could let the bullpen carry them for the rest of the way. It worked out for the rest of the seventh inning — it did not go well for them in the eighth. Kevin Kelly ran into a pinch-hitting Ozzie Albies in that inning and Ozzie promptly hit one 99.2-mph towards right field and it didn’t land inside the glove of a Rays fielder. Austin Riley then came through with a ground ball that split two of Tampa’s defenders on the right side of the infield for the breakthrough RBI single. Mike Yastrzemski followed that up with a pinch-hit ground-rule double and then Ha-Seong Kim continued his revival with a big two-RBI single that gave the Braves yet another big bottom-of-the-eighth inning in front of the fans at Truist Park.

Victor Mesa Jr. homered off of Raisel Iglesias with one out in the ninth and then a walk from Chandler Simpson meant that Tampa Bay had two outs to play with with the tying run at home plate. They didn’t get any further than that and the Braves had officially salvaged the series.


Well, that certainly wasn’t ideal but the Braves did just enough to make sure that the status quo from the start of this series in the NL East remained the same. Thanks to some help from another first-place club in the American League, the Braves will be heading into their huge weekend home series against the Philadelphia Phillies with the same four-game lead that they had when they left Philadelphia on Monday evening. Crucially, that’s three games lopped off the calendar where the Braves maintained their position instead of ceding ground. As long as Atlanta can keep it steady (and a series win this weekend would be huge), that’ll do the trick for the Braves as far as the division is concerned.

With that being said, it’s looking more and more like the Braves are going to be destined to facing someone in the Wild Card Round. Both the Brewers and the Dodgers have started to really put pedal to the medal with the Brewers essentially wrapping up the NL Central and the Dodgers taking care of business with their soft schedule. Past the obvious ramifications of the bye being out of reach, this essentially ensures that this intense ride ain’t stoppin’ until the Braves either lift the trophy or get sent home for the Fall and Winter. Strap in, folks. The water will only get choppier from here.

Hopefully the hard-hit balls that Atlanta collected during this series will start to trend more towards being successful rather than turning into the many, many frustrating outs that we had to witness. That’s just about the only solace you can take from this series if you’re a Braves fan and concerned about the offense. They’re hitting the ball hard — the ball just has to find some green or some seats instead of leather. Now would be a perfect time for that luck to turn and it would also be a great moment for the pitching staff to continue holding the opposition at bay. There’s still time for everything to click and if it does, the Braves will be able to navigate this month safely and be in good shape heading into October. We’ll see what happens.

Insider Says Hellebuyck Deal Only A Matter Of Time, At Least Three Teams Interested

The Winnipeg Jets open training camp next week, and goalie Connor Hellebuyck is likely hoping that a trade will occur before that. The Vezina and Hart Trophy winner revealed his trade request late last month and according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, there appears to be no chance of reconciliation between the Jets and the netminder who has played 625 games over 11 seasons in Manitoba since 2015.

“Some things that happened last year that were out of the Jets control, post-Olympics, that have made the situation impossible to resolve. I think the Jets were hopeful that  maybe it would change, but I don’t think that’s possible at all.” Friedman said on Thursday’s 32 Thoughts podcast. ““I do think the Jets understand that now & we'll see where this goes over the next few days.”

Other Sabres Stories

Sabres Emotionally Devastated By Game 7 Overtime Loss

Where will Connor Hellebuyck end up?

Friedman indicates that a Hellebuyck trade may move more swiftly, since the 33-year-old has a much larger list of destinations than other players who looked to move this summer, but that deals that were discussed around the NHL Draft in June are not possible now, since assets that were involved in trade offers (such as first round picks, players or prospects) were either selected, used in other deals, or unavailable due to no-trade clauses that fell into place after July 1. 

Specific to Buffalo, the fourth overall pick (used to select defenseman Daxon Rudolph) is now unavailable, and goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen five-team no-trade clause came into effect in July. The Florida Panthers were reportedly interested, but some of the pieces offered in the deal for Hellebuyck were since used to acquire forward Brady Tkachuk and goalie Jacob Markstrom from New Jersey.

Friedman indicated that it is imperative for Winnipeg GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to do well in a Hellebuyck trade, and is looking for a hockey trade rather than future assets to keep the Jets as a competitive club. Along with the Sabres, the Utah Mammoth and Carolina Hurricanes are still in the mix, but there are mixed signals of whether the New Jersey Devils are.  

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo

THN.com/Free
THN.com/Free

Video: NBA star Jaylen Brown competes in last-minute boxing match in Nigeria

Jaylen Brown

Former Boston Celtics star, now Philadelphia 76ers player Jaylen Brown decided to get in the squared circle with absolutely no preparation in Nigeria.

Brown took part in a boxing match earlier this week, a little over a month before the start of his first season in his new city. Footage of the boxing match was shown on Brown’s clips page on Instagram.

Brown commented on the post saying he ‘had 0 prep for this,” although he does have some boxing in his blood with his father being former WBU champ Quenton Marselles Brown. The match appeared to call extra attention to Brown’s 7uice Foundation, which, according to social media, “partners with leaders and institutions to bridge opportunity gaps and empower youth through education and innovation.”

In July, Brown was traded by the Celtics to the 76ers for Paul George and a pair of future second-round draft picks. Brown and the Celtics won the NBA title in 2024 after destroying the Mavericks in five games, where Brown was named Finals MVP.

Yankees' Aaron Boone talks Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s thumb injury, Anthony Volpe's opportunity at second base

Ahead of Thursday's home series finale against the Colorado Rockies, Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided an update on injured second basemanJazz Chisholm Jr. and outlined expectations for infielder Anthony Volpe following his recall to the MLB roster from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Boone began with a clear, concise update on Chisholm's health.

"With Jazz, it will be seven to ten days of no baseball activity," he stated. "We'll see as he gets ramped up, he does have a history of being a fast healer if you look at his injury history, but we'll listen to the thumb and see how he recovers."

The skipper then moved onto Volpe, talking about how he's met the challenge of being sent down on Aug. 7 to play second base at Triple-A during a crucial stretch of the Bronx Bombers' season. 

"He's done a great job down in Triple-A working on a lot of things," said Boone. "Obviously, adding the positional flexibility to his game, he's done a really great job on the defensive side, and he's been great with the bat for a while."

Volpe, who is batting ninth in the order and playing second base for the Yankees against the Rockies on Thursday night, has slashed a stellar .284/.381/.642 with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, clobbering 10 homers and tallying 21 RBI in just 28 games.

Boone, accordingly, praised the former Yanks top prospect and natural shortstop, who has shown resilience in the face of adversity and uncertainty as of late. 

He has thoroughly earned this late-season opportunity to prove he has what it takes to be an everyday player in New York, albeit at a new position. After all, surging rookie George Lombard Jr. is continuing to make the six-hole his own, mashing a grand slam on Wednesday against Colorado.

"We're excited to get him back up here," the manager professed. "All the reports from player development, he's been excellent turning double plays from second base, and we're not surprised, since he's the type of athlete that should take to the position well."

"Over the past several weeks, we've seen really big results, and hopefully that starts to translate up here as well."

Of course, playing in New York means dealing with the intense spotlight of a rabid fanbase in a massive media market, and not everyone is built to handle that pressure cooker. In this regard, Volpe has the backing of his manager.

"I've never felt like the pressure has gotten to Anthony," Boone opined. "He's done a great job working and playing with his nose down, for him it's about continuing to develop his skills and getting to that next level as a player overall."

Finally, with the 25th anniversary of 9/11 on Friday, the Yankees are set to host their crosstown rival Mets in a three-game weekend set, and Boone understands the multi-faceted importance of the occasion.

"It's going to be an incredible, very emotional scene," he concluded. "There's going to be people in the building with strong ties, very personal connections to the tragedy that took place."

"Having two New York teams playing, during this time of the year, with important games on the line, it'll be an environment with some joy, some sorrow, and some reflection."

Warriors agree to terms: Former top draft pick will be in training camp

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Alex Toohey of the Golden State Warriors arrives at the Moda Center Arena, Image 2 shows Alex Toohey of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket

The San Francisco 49ers weren’t the Bay Area’s only team forging an Australian connection this week.

Alex Toohey, the forward from Canberra, Australia, originally drafted by the Golden State Warriors before being waived is coming back for training camp, according to multiple reports.

Alex Toohey of the Golden State Warriors arrives at the arena before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NBAE via Getty Images

Toohey was Golden State’s top selection in the 2025 draft, at No. 52 overall, but has yet to appear in an NBA game and played only two games for G League Santa Cruz because of a knee injury. He was waived in December so that the Warriors could sign Malevy Leons.

Toohey and Leons will be among the crop of players competing for the Warriors’ pair of two-way slots when they open training camp later this month in Hawaii. Also expected to be in the mix are sharpshooter LJ Cryer, rookie guard Lajae Jones and Deivon Smith and Graham Ike, who like Toohey both inked Exhibit 10 deals for training camp.

Alex Toohey of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2025 NBA Summer League on July 15, 2025, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NBAE via Getty Images

The signing brings the Warriors’ roster to 20 players, one shy of the offseason maximum. After a quiet summer, they’ve rounded out their 15-man roster in recent weeks with veterans Georges Niang and Brandon Williams on minimum contracts.

Dalen Terry, the former Bulls first-round pick, will also be in training camp but must earn a spot on the full-time roster; the 6-foot-6 wing is ineligible for a two-way contract.

The Warriors report Sept. 29 for training camp, which runs through Oct. 3 on the campus of BYU-Hawaii, before opening their preseason slate against the Clippers on Oct. 4 in Honolulu.

Lane Thomas will be placed on Injured List

ATLANTA, GA - AUGUST 30: Atlanta Braves left fielder Lane Thomas (20) sits in the dugout prior to the MLB game between the Colorado Rockies and the Atlanta Braves on August 30, 2026 at TRUIST Park in Atlanta GA. (Photo by Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Lane Thomas was a late scratch in the Braves lineup today. We have heard why from Walt Weiss.

I’m not a doctor, but as I understand it an intercostal strain is slightly different from an oblique strain. An intercostal strain affects the muscles under the ribs. An oblique strain affects the sides of the abdomen. In any case, it’s an Injured List visit for Thomas. He will join Bryce Elder as the second Braves player placed there this week.

In case you missed it, Mauricio Dubon pulled away from the plate with an oblique issue in today’s game. According to reports, Walt said postgame that he felt something in his back and it wasn’t a big deal. We might see DaShawn Keirsey Jr. on the active roster for the Philadelphia series tomorrow, but we don’t know at this point. I’m not sure what the Braves will do if that Dubon goes down. We will see more of Ha-Seong Kim, I’m sure. But I’ll take two hits a game like today while he’s gone.

Oblique injuries are going around. Y’all be safe out there.

From Luka Doncic bobblehead to 2020 Championship rings, Lakers celebrating present and past

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Hello Kitty in a pink and white baseball uniform on a baseball mound, Image 2 shows Lakers coach Phil Jackson waves three fingers, signifying three consecutive NBA championships, at a victory parade, Image 3 shows Luka Doncic #77 and Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers hold hands during a time out in the second half of a game against the Chicago Bulls

From bobbleheads celebrating current stars to ones honoring key figures of the past, to Hello Kitty – yes, Hello Kitty – the Lakers are slated to have a well-rounded promotional nights schedule for 2026-27

The team announced Thursday their full slate of promotional nights and special recognitions for the upcoming season.

The Lakers are having bobblehead giveaways of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves during the 2026-27 season. Getty Images

They’ll celebrate superstar guard Luka Dončić as the NBA’s 2025-26 scoring champion with a bobblehead giveaway during the Nov. 1 home game against the Raptors.

Lakers star guard Austin Reaves will also have his own bobblehead giveaway night during the Dec. 27 home game against the Grizzlies. 

The franchise will also honor legends through its new “League of Stars” program, which will include throwback bobbleheads of two-time All-Star and NBA champion Norm Nixon (Dec. 14 vs. Pelicans), NBA champion coach Paul Westhead (Jan. 14 vs. Magic) and four-time NBA champion Kurt Rambis (March 17 vs. Suns). 

The Lakers will also have a Phil Jackson bobblehead night during the April 9 home game against the Timberwolves after Jackson’s statue outside of Crypto.com Arena is unveiled earlier that day. 

Keeping up with celebrating their past, the Lakers will have a 2020 Championship ring replica giveaway on Jan. 24, when they’re slated to host Anthony Davis and the Wizards.

The Lakers are hosting their first “Hello Kitty” night during the 2026-27 season. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

A few other promotional nights include a Lakers x Dodgers baseball-style jersey giveaway on Nov. 18 vs. the Jazz, the franchise’s first Hello Kitty night on March 7 vs. the Nets, in addition to giveaways during Opening Night against the Warriors on Oct. 21 and the 76ers on Christmas Day.

Lakers’ 2026-27 promotional nights 

  • Oct. 8: LGBTQ+ Pride Night with Pride t-shirt 
  • Oct. 21: Opening Night vs. Warriors 
  • Nov. 1: Luka Dončić scoring champion bobblehead 
  • Nov. 17: Veterans Appreciation Night 
  • Nov. 18: Lakers x Dodgers baseball-style jersey giveaway 
  • Dec. 1: League of Stars honors Norm Nixon with bobblehead 
Phil Jackson is one of several Lakers legends who’ll be honored with a bobblehead during 2026-27. REUTERS
  • Dec. 25: Christmas Day vs. 76ers 
  • Dec. 27: Austin Reaves bobblehead night 
  • Jan. 14: League of Stars honors Paul Westhead bobblehead 
  • Jan. 24: Lakers 2020 Championship ring replica giveaway 
  • Feb. 10: Mental Health Awareness Night 
  • March 7: Hello Kitty Night 
  • March 17: League of Stars honors Kurt Rambis with bobblehead 
  • April 9: Phil Jackson statue unveiling and Phil Jackson bobblehead

Boston Celtics Daily Links 9/10/26

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 18: The sneakers worn by Malik Williams #37 of the Milwaukee Bucks during the game against the Miami Heat during the 2025 NBA Summer League game on July 18, 2025 at the Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

CelticsBlogWhat’s one thing you’d change about the NBA?

NBC Sports BostonRamp to Camp: What version of Derrick White will Celtics get this season?

NESNWhy Celtics Rival Still Hasn’t Completed Blockbuster Trade

Why Jaylen Brown Went Viral For Making Boxing Debut in Nigeria

Where Jayson Tatum’s $209 Million Career Earnings Rank Among NBA’s Highest-Paid Players

Former Celtics Assistant Kara Lawson Guides Team USA To FIBA Semifinals

Former Celtics Forward Thinks He Could Be NBA’s Biggest What-If

Celtics Reportedly Tried Landing $110M Award Winner for Jaylen Brown

Mass Live Former Celtics wing believes he’s ‘biggest what-if’ in NBA history

Celtics trade rumors: Boston rejecting offers for veteran guard

Celtics WireBrian Scalabrine thinks the Celtics will be a better team this season

Today in Boston Celtics history: Xavier McDaniel signs, Art Williams trade

Why Mike Conley signed with the Boston Celtics

Gordon Hayward on what convinced him to sign with the Celtics

Hardwood Houdini Danilo Gallinari’s ‘what-if’ career involves Celtics in multiple ways

Why ESPN is completely wrong about the Boston Celtics’ playoff upside

How teams defend Luka Garza will be key to his impact for Celtics

Former Lakers No. 2 pick could become Celtics’ Anfernee Simons replacement

CLNS Media/YouTube Should Celtics have traded for Pistons free agent Jalen Duren? | Celtics Daily

The Sports HubHow Celtics could benefit from Clippers’ punishment

Hoops WireSportsbooks still love Celtics, though Eastern Conference may have other ideas

Hoops RumorsCommunity Shootaround: Celtics’ Ranking

Celtics RoundtableAre Fears About Boston Celtics in Playoffs Justified Heading into 2026-27?

Here’s When Former Boston Celtics Coach and Team USA Will Play in FIBA Quarters

Sixers WireSixers vs. Celtics ranked top rivalry heading into the new season

Scoop B Locked In Boston: Ron Harper Jr. Talks New Celtics Deal, Paul George’s Number 13 & Jaylen Brown’s Legacy

NBA/YouTubeJayson Tatum teaches his son Deuce how to conduct a proper interview

ClipperholicsKris Dunn trade idea from Clippers to Celtics is win-win for both sides

Detroit Jock CityRanking Pistons’ 5 toughest Eastern Conference rivals this season

Heavy Proposed Trade Sends Defensive Specialist To Boston Celtics

Essentially SportsJaylen Brown Still “Disappointed” With Celtics as Family Faces Unique Philadelphia Challenge

“Bad Look”: NBA Champion Calls Out Glen Davis for Dragging Gilbert Arenas, Tony Allen & More After 17-Month Jail Time

Barstool SportsJaylen Brown Is Fully Embracing Philly Culture By Going Full “Rocky” And Made His Boxing Debut In Nigeria

Hardwood HeroicsCeltics Star Jayson Tatum Reveals How 2025 Injury Change Him, Commemorates It Through His New Shoes

Mike Conley’s Celtics Move Could Deliver Crushing Blow to Anthony Edwards and Timberwolves

Jaylen Brown Breaks Silence on Painful Celtics Exit Ahead of New 76ers Chapter

Sportsnaut ‘Domantas Sabonis Wants Out of Sacramento’: 5 Trade Destinations Before Training Camp, Including the Boston Celtics

SI .comCrafting A Three-Team Blockbuster Idea That Lands Fred VanVleet in Atlanta

HoopsHypeNBA Ranking: The Top 27 small forwards for 2026-27

Fadeaway World10 Most Notorious Lose-Lose Trades In NBA History

Yahoo Sports NBA offseason grades for every East team: Were 76ers, Heat biggest winners?

Last Word on SportsKnicks’ 3 Toughest Games On The 2026-27 Schedule

OutKickNBA star Jaylen Brown says in ridiculous interview he’s an influencer, not an entertainer for fans

Basketball NetworkMagic Johnson revealed why Larry Bird was never his real matchup in Celtics-Lakers battles: “My rivalry really was with D.J. in a sense”

Clutch PointsJaylen Brown’s ‘disappointing’ take on end of Celtics tenure

Fan RecapCeltics Suddenly Have A Cheap Flier Worth Watching Closely

Celtics Could Face A Tough Trust Call On Former Lakers Guard

Jayson Tatums New Jordan Release Says Everything About His Celtics Status

Mike Conley Just Gave Celtics Fans Another Reason To Love This Move

Celtics Are Closing In On A Crucial Payton Pritchard Decision

Celtics Suddenly Face A Bigger East Debate Than Fans Expected

Jayson Tatums Next Celtics Chapter Carries More Than Just Expectations

Luka Garza Could Unlock A New Celtics Debate This Season