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Lakers feel they have pieces in place to make NBA Finals run. Can they?

For all the drama that surrounded the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, you wouldn't have known it judging by all the smiles at the podium during media day on Monday, Sept. 28.

The Lakers are coming off a second consecutive 50-win season under head coach JJ Redick and went with a complete roster overhaul in the wake of LeBron James' exit. President of basketball operations Rob Pelinka swung big, landing Walker Kessler to be their center of the future in a trade that sent two first-round draft picks and two unprotected first-round pick swaps back to the Utah Jazz. That move was followed up by filling out the roster around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves with supporting players who can dribble, pass and shoot. And after an offseason trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia, the new-look Lakers feel bought in.

USA TODAY Sports predicts the Lakers record in 2026-27 at 48-34, in large part due to the uncertainty surrounding so many new faces and the growing pains that are sure to come up at some point. Reaves acknowledged that on Monday.

"We're a very new team to one another," Reaves told reporters. "And there's gonna be some growing periods where things aren't going the way that we want them to go. But that doesn't change the goal at the end of the day, and that's to be as competitive as we can every single night."

"I think we're all underrated, if that makes sense, in different aspects," Collin Sexton added. "We're competitors. I feel like we added people that are willing to compete and we added guys that don't back down to anyone. I know for myself, I'm somebody that's not gonna back down to any challenge. I'm not gonna back down to anyone.

"... We're here."

Ziaire Williams took it one step further.

"We have a bunch of great passers on this team, great shooters, great defensive versatility," he told reporters. "I think we have everything we need to win an NBA championship."

Here are the five biggest takeaways from Lakers media day on Monday Sept. 28:

Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves ready to take on leadership role

While Dončić pointed out that he's been in leadership positions for most of his life and career, that role is a new one for Reaves. But as the longest tenured Laker and the unquestioned No. 2 option, the former undrafted free agent from Newark, Arkansas, is embracing the added responsibility. More importantly, Reaves is leading in his own way.

"I'm not someone that's gonna sit out here and scream at people," he told reporters. "I like to talk to people one-on-one, have real conversation. That way, people never feel like I'm trying to embarrass them in front of people."

Instead, Reaves pulls a teammate off to the side whenever there's a down period in practice to offer his input. He's a conversationalist, not a drill sergeant.

" …There will be times I need to speak up in group settings, and I'll do that when the time comes," he continued. "But I think you just got to be true to yourself and do what's comfortable for you."

Reaves is following the challenge JJ Redick laid out for him and Dončić. This is now their team, and they need to find their own way to show leadership.

Dončić has been impressed with Reaves' growth both in the two years he's played alongside him. Stepping into the No. 1 role isn't new for Dončić, but he's now the guy on the Lakers now that LeBron James is gone. Hearing his name alongside franchise greats like Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant and Kareem-Abdul Jabbar does add something, he admitted.

"You obviously have all-time great names," Dončić said. "But it's like a new challenge. I like challenges. I wouldn't it feels different, but I would say I feel honored."

Defense, versatility are priorities

When LeBron James decided to leave the Lakers in free agency this summer, Pelinka and Redick outlined three priorities for the offseason: 1. Re-sign Reaves. 2. Find a franchise-caliber center. 3. Get guys who can dribble, pass and shoot.

They checked all three of those boxes. Reaves was brought back on a five-year, $184 million deal. Walker Kessler has been described as the "perfect fit" next to Dončić and Reaves; he steps in as the Lakers' best rim protector since Anthony Davis. And they brought in an almost entirely new supporting cast. Quentin Grimes and Ziaire Williams can defend and space the floor, Matisse Thybulle is a lockdown defender who can't wait to play next to Kessler. The second unit looks solid too, with Collin Sexton expected to run the offense when Dončić and Reaves aren't on the floor. He'll pair up nicely with Sandro Mamukelashvili if the latter doesn't crack the starting five.

Grimes, the Lakers' second biggest signing, told reporters on Monday that he's already discussed his role with Redick.

"Being a point-of-attack defender, bringing that intensity, bringing that nastiness," he said. "OKC and San Antonio, they play really hard defensively. You can get away with a lot more, so we're really trying to set that tone."

Thybulle can't wait to play next to Kessler.

"Just to have someone who can command the paint and protect the rim, it allows me to be more aggressive. And I think a lot of the other guys would speak to that as well," Thybulle told reporters. "... I just feel like I can fully live up to my defensive potential because of having a rim protector like Walker."

Redick said last week that two starting spots are up for grabs. It's clear that they want guys who can space the floor and be aggressive on both sides of the ball.

Bronny James excited for next chapter without LeBron

For the first time in his short career, Bronny James won't be teammates with his dad. He spent much of his availability on Monday addressing that elephant in the room, but the 21-year-old guard said he's ready to chart his own path in the NBA.

"Feels like he's not here," James said matter of factly. "I don't really have an opinion on that. That's my dad, I spent 22 years, almost, with him. Just another experience that I'm gonna be a part of, and I'm excited to see how it's gonna feel during the season, too. Looking forward to it."

James has been locked in on becoming the most consistent version of himself this summer, getting in the weight room every day and working on his ballhandling, playmaking and becoming a point-of-attack defender. With an almost entirely new cast of teammates, he's had to speedrun getting to know them but can already feel that they'll be a more free-flowing, high-energy offense than they've been in his two previous years.

But more than anything, Bronny is just excited for the chance to make his own name.

"It's just something that I've followed my entire life," James said. "You guys know me as Bronny, my real name is LeBron. I've been doing this for however long, so I think it's a motivating factor for me just getting up every day and trying to prove myself as Bronny instead of LeBron."

Slovenia trip helped kickstart chemistry

Kessler got his first lob from Dončić during a pickup game in Slovenia.

"I don't even think he was looking at me," he told reporters Monday.

But surely enough, Luka threw the ball up and placed it perfectly over Kessler's head. He went up, caught it, dunked it and high-fived Dončić back on the other end of the floor.

"Yup," he thought to himself. "I can get used to this."

The Lakers' offseason trip to Ljubljana was born out of necessity; Dončić was spending time with his daughters and couldn't leave the country, so he brought the team to him instead. They played each other not just in pickup games, but also in rowing, golf and bowling, getting to know each other while also building up a healthy competitiveness heading into training camp.

According to Austin Reaves, his team beat Dončić's in every game.

"But he did host us, so we let him hold the first place trophy for once," Reaves said.

"I beat him in golf two days ago," Dončić later retorted. "He didn't say that, huh?"

The trip was also an opportunity for Dončić to share his home with his teammates. He meticulously planned out everything, showing the Lakers around all his go-to spots from childhood all the way up until now.

"It was an amazing trip," Luka said. "It was very important for me to show them where I'm from. I think everybody liked it. We had some great time and it was very nice that all of them came, which I know is not easy. But that just shows what kind of group we are."

The Lakers are healthy

The Lakers limped towards the end of last season, but a full offseason of rest seems to have done the trick.

One of the lowest points for the Lakers during the 2025-26 season was that month-long stretch in January where they were without Austin Reaves due to a grade 2 calf strain. Not only is Reaves feeling 100%, he's applying what he learned from LeBron James over the past five years on injury prevention and taking care of his body to help him stay on the court for as many games as possible.

"There's a lot more that goes into it than the casual fan sees," Reaves told reporters. "You have to do more every single day, especially the older that you get. He's a perfect example of that. We've had a really good summer and put myself in a really good spot going into this year."

Dončić suffered a grade 2 hamstring at the beginning of April, delivering a huge blow to the Lakers just weeks ahead of the playoffs. He missed the final 15 games of the season, including the entire postseason despite making a trip to Spain to undergo a series of injections in hopes of speeding up his recovery timeline.

But now, Dončić says he's fully healthy and will have no restrictions going into the season.

"Right now, I feel great," he told reporters. "I feel rested mentally. I feel great, so I can't wait for this to start."

Two of the Lakers' additions this summer also dealt with significant injuries last season. Kessler played in just five games after undergoing left shoulder surgery. He says his shoulder feels better than it ever has now and is counting on that added confidence to help him play looser once the season starts.

Matisse Thybulle missed 52 games in 2025-26 after he developed tendinopathy in his right knee while rehabbing from surgery on a torn UCL in his left thumb. The year before that, he underwent surgery on his right knee to address inflammation and suffered a severe grade 2 right ankle sprain that included a torn ligament before he could make his return.

He, too, feels ready to go.

"I feel great now," Thybulle told reporters. "I think this year, from the coaches to the training staff to RP, they all have a good sense of what it is I need to be healthy and available, and I really think that was just the missing piece. Just having the plan around what's needed for my return to play and just to stay on the court.

"Once we got that going almost immediately when I got here, and things have just been moving in the right direction ever since."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lakers feel they have pieces in place to make NBA Finals run. Can they?

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Lakers feel they have pieces in place to make NBA Finals run. Can they?

For all the drama that surrounded the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, you wouldn't have known it judging by all the smiles at the podium during media day on Monday, Sept. 28.

The Lakers are coming off a second consecutive 50-win season under head coach JJ Redick and went with a complete roster overhaul in the wake of LeBron James' exit. President of basketball operations Rob Pelinka swung big, landing Walker Kessler to be their center of the future in a trade that sent two first-round draft picks and two unprotected first-round pick swaps back to the Utah Jazz. That move was followed up by filling out the roster around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves with supporting players who can dribble, pass and shoot. And after an offseason trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia, the new-look Lakers feel bought in.

USA TODAY Sports predicts the Lakers record in 2026-27 at 48-34, in large part due to the uncertainty surrounding so many new faces and the growing pains that are sure to come up at some point. Reaves acknowledged that on Monday.

"We're a very new team to one another," Reaves told reporters. "And there's gonna be some growing periods where things aren't going the way that we want them to go. But that doesn't change the goal at the end of the day, and that's to be as competitive as we can every single night."

"I think we're all underrated, if that makes sense, in different aspects," Collin Sexton added. "We're competitors. I feel like we added people that are willing to compete and we added guys that don't back down to anyone. I know for myself, I'm somebody that's not gonna back down to any challenge. I'm not gonna back down to anyone.

"... We're here."

Ziaire Williams took it one step further.

"We have a bunch of great passers on this team, great shooters, great defensive versatility," he told reporters. "I think we have everything we need to win an NBA championship."

Here are the five biggest takeaways from Lakers media day on Monday Sept. 28:

Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves ready to take on leadership role

While Dončić pointed out that he's been in leadership positions for most of his life and career, that role is a new one for Reaves. But as the longest tenured Laker and the unquestioned No. 2 option, the former undrafted free agent from Newark, Arkansas, is embracing the added responsibility. More importantly, Reaves is leading in his own way.

"I'm not someone that's gonna sit out here and scream at people," he told reporters. "I like to talk to people one-on-one, have real conversation. That way, people never feel like I'm trying to embarrass them in front of people."

Instead, Reaves pulls a teammate off to the side whenever there's a down period in practice to offer his input. He's a conversationalist, not a drill sergeant.

" …There will be times I need to speak up in group settings, and I'll do that when the time comes," he continued. "But I think you just got to be true to yourself and do what's comfortable for you."

Reaves is following the challenge JJ Redick laid out for him and Dončić. This is now their team, and they need to find their own way to show leadership.

Dončić has been impressed with Reaves' growth both in the two years he's played alongside him. Stepping into the No. 1 role isn't new for Dončić, but he's now the guy on the Lakers now that LeBron James is gone. Hearing his name alongside franchise greats like Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant and Kareem-Abdul Jabbar does add something, he admitted.

"You obviously have all-time great names," Dončić said. "But it's like a new challenge. I like challenges. I wouldn't it feels different, but I would say I feel honored."

Defense, versatility are priorities

When LeBron James decided to leave the Lakers in free agency this summer, Pelinka and Redick outlined three priorities for the offseason: 1. Re-sign Reaves. 2. Find a franchise-caliber center. 3. Get guys who can dribble, pass and shoot.

They checked all three of those boxes. Reaves was brought back on a five-year, $184 million deal. Walker Kessler has been described as the "perfect fit" next to Dončić and Reaves; he steps in as the Lakers' best rim protector since Anthony Davis. And they brought in an almost entirely new supporting cast. Quentin Grimes and Ziaire Williams can defend and space the floor, Matisse Thybulle is a lockdown defender who can't wait to play next to Kessler. The second unit looks solid too, with Collin Sexton expected to run the offense when Dončić and Reaves aren't on the floor. He'll pair up nicely with Sandro Mamukelashvili if the latter doesn't crack the starting five.

Grimes, the Lakers' second biggest signing, told reporters on Monday that he's already discussed his role with Redick.

"Being a point-of-attack defender, bringing that intensity, bringing that nastiness," he said. "OKC and San Antonio, they play really hard defensively. You can get away with a lot more, so we're really trying to set that tone."

Thybulle can't wait to play next to Kessler.

"Just to have someone who can command the paint and protect the rim, it allows me to be more aggressive. And I think a lot of the other guys would speak to that as well," Thybulle told reporters. "... I just feel like I can fully live up to my defensive potential because of having a rim protector like Walker."

Redick said last week that two starting spots are up for grabs. It's clear that they want guys who can space the floor and be aggressive on both sides of the ball.

Bronny James excited for next chapter without LeBron

For the first time in his short career, Bronny James won't be teammates with his dad. He spent much of his availability on Monday addressing that elephant in the room, but the 21-year-old guard said he's ready to chart his own path in the NBA.

"Feels like he's not here," James said matter of factly. "I don't really have an opinion on that. That's my dad, I spent 22 years, almost, with him. Just another experience that I'm gonna be a part of, and I'm excited to see how it's gonna feel during the season, too. Looking forward to it."

James has been locked in on becoming the most consistent version of himself this summer, getting in the weight room every day and working on his ballhandling, playmaking and becoming a point-of-attack defender. With an almost entirely new cast of teammates, he's had to speedrun getting to know them but can already feel that they'll be a more free-flowing, high-energy offense than they've been in his two previous years.

But more than anything, Bronny is just excited for the chance to make his own name.

"It's just something that I've followed my entire life," James said. "You guys know me as Bronny, my real name is LeBron. I've been doing this for however long, so I think it's a motivating factor for me just getting up every day and trying to prove myself as Bronny instead of LeBron."

Slovenia trip helped kickstart chemistry

Kessler got his first lob from Dončić during a pickup game in Slovenia.

"I don't even think he was looking at me," he told reporters Monday.

But surely enough, Luka threw the ball up and placed it perfectly over Kessler's head. He went up, caught it, dunked it and high-fived Dončić back on the other end of the floor.

"Yup," he thought to himself. "I can get used to this."

The Lakers' offseason trip to Ljubljana was born out of necessity; Dončić was spending time with his daughters and couldn't leave the country, so he brought the team to him instead. They played each other not just in pickup games, but also in rowing, golf and bowling, getting to know each other while also building up a healthy competitiveness heading into training camp.

According to Austin Reaves, his team beat Dončić's in every game.

"But he did host us, so we let him hold the first place trophy for once," Reaves said.

"I beat him in golf two days ago," Dončić later retorted. "He didn't say that, huh?"

The trip was also an opportunity for Dončić to share his home with his teammates. He meticulously planned out everything, showing the Lakers around all his go-to spots from childhood all the way up until now.

"It was an amazing trip," Luka said. "It was very important for me to show them where I'm from. I think everybody liked it. We had some great time and it was very nice that all of them came, which I know is not easy. But that just shows what kind of group we are."

The Lakers are healthy

The Lakers limped towards the end of last season, but a full offseason of rest seems to have done the trick.

One of the lowest points for the Lakers during the 2025-26 season was that month-long stretch in January where they were without Austin Reaves due to a grade 2 calf strain. Not only is Reaves feeling 100%, he's applying what he learned from LeBron James over the past five years on injury prevention and taking care of his body to help him stay on the court for as many games as possible.

"There's a lot more that goes into it than the casual fan sees," Reaves told reporters. "You have to do more every single day, especially the older that you get. He's a perfect example of that. We've had a really good summer and put myself in a really good spot going into this year."

Dončić suffered a grade 2 hamstring at the beginning of April, delivering a huge blow to the Lakers just weeks ahead of the playoffs. He missed the final 15 games of the season, including the entire postseason despite making a trip to Spain to undergo a series of injections in hopes of speeding up his recovery timeline.

But now, Dončić says he's fully healthy and will have no restrictions going into the season.

"Right now, I feel great," he told reporters. "I feel rested mentally. I feel great, so I can't wait for this to start."

Two of the Lakers' additions this summer also dealt with significant injuries last season. Kessler played in just five games after undergoing left shoulder surgery. He says his shoulder feels better than it ever has now and is counting on that added confidence to help him play looser once the season starts.

Matisse Thybulle missed 52 games in 2025-26 after he developed tendinopathy in his right knee while rehabbing from surgery on a torn UCL in his left thumb. The year before that, he underwent surgery on his right knee to address inflammation and suffered a severe grade 2 right ankle sprain that included a torn ligament before he could make his return.

He, too, feels ready to go.

"I feel great now," Thybulle told reporters. "I think this year, from the coaches to the training staff to RP, they all have a good sense of what it is I need to be healthy and available, and I really think that was just the missing piece. Just having the plan around what's needed for my return to play and just to stay on the court.

"Once we got that going almost immediately when I got here, and things have just been moving in the right direction ever since."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lakers feel they have pieces in place to make NBA Finals run. Can they?

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The Utah Jazz Hierarchy of Needs through quotes: Media Day 2026

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - SEPTEMBER 28: Darryn Peterson #22 of the Utah Jazz speaks during the Utah Jazz media day at Zions Bank Basketball Campus on September 28, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Are you familiar with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs? It’s a concept that the needs of a human being fall into five distinct layers, typically visualized in the shape of a pyramid, with the most fundamental items required for survival at the bottom (air, food, water, shelter, etc.), and the least essential items (respect, status, and reaching one’s potential) near the top. It’s essentially the scale between a person’s wants and needs, and it illustrates that one cannot reach self-actualization without first supporting that ideal with a foundation of the needs below.

NBA basketball teams are built in mostly the same way.

At the base are the things a team needs to exist: players, a court, goals, equipment, rules, etc.

Then you have items like uniforms, coaches, and referees.

Closer to the top come the flashier things. An adoring fanbase, endorsements, fame, success, stardom, etc.

But in the case of the Utah Jazz, historical failure to win an NBA championship means that Utah has never reached basketball self-actualization — consistently falling short of their ultimate potential. This is why Ryan Smith’s first course of action with the franchise was to tear it down to its most fundamental level. The star players were the first to go. Then the veteran coach. Then the supporting cast of talent. He even sucked the life and color from Utah’s uniforms, leaving them with a bare-bones and hideous appearance as a visual representation of the team’s self-inflicted serfdom.

In order to climb the ladder to self-actualization, the Jazz first had to fortify their most fundamental needs.

And they’ve done exactly that, drafting and nurturing young players who could develop into future stars, adding established talent to blaze the trail to a brighter tomorrow, and replacing the team’s neon rags with robes of purple.

We’re witnessing the twilight of a revolution, but ushering in a new age of greater competition is the easy part — converting potential into wins is harder.

Thankfully, we got a glimpse into the Utah Jazz’s organizational direction at media day, and using what I’ve learned, I proudly present to you Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs.

Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Much like the work of Maslow, Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs outlines the biggest developments of Utah’s offseason and how crucial they are to reach the team’s ultimate goal.

And best of all, I’ve illustrated Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs by my own hand, for your scientific reference. Would you believe me if I told you that zero artificial intelligence was involved in the creation of the image below?

Base: Hard work and character

When asked what he’s looking for in the starting lineup, Will Hardy didn’t talk about ability, positions, or even mention any player names. Instead, he put an emphasis on players’ mindsets; he focused on character.

“I’m looking for competitors,” Hardy explained.

“I’m looking for people that want to win. I’m looking for people that are willing to give themselves to the group. If everybody on our team can take ten percent of their self and put it in the middle, we’ll have the ability to have those learnings happen faster. If we have to navigate through the choppy waters of big ego, it can be harder.”

Then instead of issuing a warning to his players, or tempering the expectations of those in attendance, he took a moment to vouch for the roster Utah had meticulously constructed over the offseason.

“If there’s one thing I am sure of today, it’s the character of the guys we have on the team.”

Josh Okogie, who arrived in Utah via free agency this Summer, really likes what he’s seen in the Jazz’s approach. There is a lot of space for mediocrity in the National Basketball Association, but with his experience, Okogie sees potential embodied through action when he observes his teammates, his coaches, and the direction of the organization as a whole.

In every controllable metric, the Jazz are doing what is necessary to win at a high level.

“This is a very unique team,” Okogie began. “I’ve played on a lot of different teams, and I’ve seen the habits of good teams and the habits of bad teams. … I would say this team is unique because their style of play is different than what you would see in the modern game today.”

Okogie chose to sign with Utah despite a comparable offer from the Denver Nuggets because the trajectory of the Jazz is incredibly attractive. This is no longer a start-up building from the ground floor; Utah is already on the ascent.

“I think we have all the tools and ingredients to be a pretty good team.”

Jaren Jackson Jr. doubled down on the endorsement of his coach and veteran teammate, highlighting the hard work and positive attitude of his younger peers and the approach they took during the offseason.

“These guys work! That’s what stands out for sure — they work all the time,” Jackson excitedly shared when asked his observations of the youngsters in Utah. “Darryn, Key, Ace, they’re always shooting right here after we’re done playing. They’re always working out together, they’re always going over stuff — they just never want to stop working.”

“They should be proud of themselves for the work they’ve put in. I don’t ever have to say that to them, because they always want so much more for themselves.”

Which leads us perfectly to the next level of Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and it’s all about the improvements made in Utah’s young core.

Center: Self-Improvement

Utah took a very traditional approach when it came to rebuilding. Tearing the team down to nothing and rebuilding through the draft is textbook for a small-market franchise, and the Jazz did just that.

And the reward for their labors is one of the more intriguing batches of young talent in basketball.

Keyonte George, obviously, took a massive leap in his third year, turning himself from a mid-first-round draft pick into a fundamental piece of Utah’s future. Look no further than his freshly inked 5-year, $157.5 million extension for evidence of the organization’s faith in him.

But to shift the prevailing narrative and turn the page of his career from that of a promising up-and-comer to a certifiable star, his defense needs to improve. He knows it, and he wasn’t shy when acknowledging the focus he’s put into growing as a defender.

“Whether it’s learning personnel, being a good help-side defender, being a good one-on-one defender, being one of the guys that you don’t really want to hunt towards the end of the game, that’s what I’ve been focused on. So that’s the strength, different footwork, and different technical stuff.”

Keyonte’s development isn’t all hypothetical, either. He made it clear that he’s made observable improvement in two specific facets of the game.

“I’m able to move better — stay in front. This year, the main thing for me is really focusing on personnel, because once you start to pick up on players’ go-to moves and you figure out how teams want to play, you can play the game within the game on that side, so that’s what I’ve been focusing on.”

Ace Bailey possesses clear potential to bloom into stardom, and is building muscle onto his slender frame — a much-needed development for a player whose height will likely match him up against the full-grown men who terrorize the NBA from their perch on the wings.

The rest of the original young core, Filipowski, Sensabaugh, and Collier, are all pursuing internal improvement to earn a permanent place with this team before the winning train is soaring down the tracks.

Filipowski revealed a lingering injury — a herniated disc — that had been hindering his performance a season ago but has since fully recovered.

Brice Sensabaugh understands that he may have to wait until restricted free agency to re-sign with the Jazz, but plans to utilize this season as a method to cement his place on the roster.

“I’m just keeping my head on straight,” Sensabaugh resolved. “And you know, whatever happens happens.”

Development of the young core is essential to raising the ceiling of this team, but there’s one figure who stands atop it all. His performance, his growth, and his rise will be the biggest difference-maker for a franchise anxious to become an undeniable threat to those who sit atop the NBA.

Peak: DP

No, that DP doesn’t stand for Dr Pepper (which coincidentally is at the top of my personal hierarchy of needs); I’m referring to Darryn Peterson. The final draftee of Utah’s tanking era. The prize for the Jazz’s years of anguish. The player whose arrival marks a great shift in the Jazz’s future.

He needs no further introduction — Darryn Peterson is practically all that Jazz fans have talked about since June — but a few quotes from media day are drenching Peterson’s already blazing flame of hype and converting it into a fireball monstrous enough to send Smokey Bear into retirement on sight.

And the most notable quote of all belongs to Mo Bamba, of all people.

Having played for 7 different NBA franchises in his 8-year career, Bamba has shared the court with many exceptional players. When asked if Peterson reminds him of any players across the league, Bamba laughed as he drew a gargantuan comparison.

“This is going to sound crazy, but I see a lot of Kawhi in him,” said Bamba. “Quiet, bucket-getter, mid-range… Obviously two very different positions, but I see a lot of Kawhi.”

“I was talking to Nurk a couple of weeks ago, and he sees a lot of Dame, and I think that one is a little more comparable, because position-wise, scoring-wise, pull-up game, offensive talent-wise, and capability-wise.”

“I hate that Darryn is going to see this,” he laughed.

But if the Kawhi comparisons make you concerned about Peterson’s personality, Keyonte George’s declaration of friendship should put any anti-social allegations to bed.

“We sit next to each other in the locker room. We hang out with each other off the court. I go to his house and he comes to my house. We got the same dog. So, like, I mean… that’s my dog!”

It may take Darryn Peterson a few years to truly become a star for the Utah Jazz, but if you direct your attention to Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs, a clear and reliable foundation sits beneath him.

Utah’s path to self-actualization is not hypothetical — this is a team built to reach that peak.

Calvin Barrett is the Associate Editor for SLC Dunk. Originally from Springville, Utah, he currently lives in Japan and has covered the NBA and college athletics since 2024.

Posted on

The Utah Jazz Hierarchy of Needs through quotes: Media Day 2026

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - SEPTEMBER 28: Darryn Peterson #22 of the Utah Jazz speaks during the Utah Jazz media day at Zions Bank Basketball Campus on September 28, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Are you familiar with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs? It’s a concept that the needs of a human being fall into five distinct layers, typically visualized in the shape of a pyramid, with the most fundamental items required for survival at the bottom (air, food, water, shelter, etc.), and the least essential items (respect, status, and reaching one’s potential) near the top. It’s essentially the scale between a person’s wants and needs, and it illustrates that one cannot reach self-actualization without first supporting that ideal with a foundation of the needs below.

NBA basketball teams are built in mostly the same way.

At the base are the things a team needs to exist: players, a court, goals, equipment, rules, etc.

Then you have items like uniforms, coaches, and referees.

Closer to the top come the flashier things. An adoring fanbase, endorsements, fame, success, stardom, etc.

But in the case of the Utah Jazz, historical failure to win an NBA championship means that Utah has never reached basketball self-actualization — consistently falling short of their ultimate potential. This is why Ryan Smith’s first course of action with the franchise was to tear it down to its most fundamental level. The star players were the first to go. Then the veteran coach. Then the supporting cast of talent. He even sucked the life and color from Utah’s uniforms, leaving them with a bare-bones and hideous appearance as a visual representation of the team’s self-inflicted serfdom.

In order to climb the ladder to self-actualization, the Jazz first had to fortify their most fundamental needs.

And they’ve done exactly that, drafting and nurturing young players who could develop into future stars, adding established talent to blaze the trail to a brighter tomorrow, and replacing the team’s neon rags with robes of purple.

We’re witnessing the twilight of a revolution, but ushering in a new age of greater competition is the easy part — converting potential into wins is harder.

Thankfully, we got a glimpse into the Utah Jazz’s organizational direction at media day, and using what I’ve learned, I proudly present to you Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs.

Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Much like the work of Maslow, Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs outlines the biggest developments of Utah’s offseason and how crucial they are to reach the team’s ultimate goal.

And best of all, I’ve illustrated Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs by my own hand, for your scientific reference. Would you believe me if I told you that zero artificial intelligence was involved in the creation of the image below?

Base: Hard work and character

When asked what he’s looking for in the starting lineup, Will Hardy didn’t talk about ability, positions, or even mention any player names. Instead, he put an emphasis on players’ mindsets; he focused on character.

“I’m looking for competitors,” Hardy explained.

“I’m looking for people that want to win. I’m looking for people that are willing to give themselves to the group. If everybody on our team can take ten percent of their self and put it in the middle, we’ll have the ability to have those learnings happen faster. If we have to navigate through the choppy waters of big ego, it can be harder.”

Then instead of issuing a warning to his players, or tempering the expectations of those in attendance, he took a moment to vouch for the roster Utah had meticulously constructed over the offseason.

“If there’s one thing I am sure of today, it’s the character of the guys we have on the team.”

Josh Okogie, who arrived in Utah via free agency this Summer, really likes what he’s seen in the Jazz’s approach. There is a lot of space for mediocrity in the National Basketball Association, but with his experience, Okogie sees potential embodied through action when he observes his teammates, his coaches, and the direction of the organization as a whole.

In every controllable metric, the Jazz are doing what is necessary to win at a high level.

“This is a very unique team,” Okogie began. “I’ve played on a lot of different teams, and I’ve seen the habits of good teams and the habits of bad teams. … I would say this team is unique because their style of play is different than what you would see in the modern game today.”

Okogie chose to sign with Utah despite a comparable offer from the Denver Nuggets because the trajectory of the Jazz is incredibly attractive. This is no longer a start-up building from the ground floor; Utah is already on the ascent.

“I think we have all the tools and ingredients to be a pretty good team.”

Jaren Jackson Jr. doubled down on the endorsement of his coach and veteran teammate, highlighting the hard work and positive attitude of his younger peers and the approach they took during the offseason.

“These guys work! That’s what stands out for sure — they work all the time,” Jackson excitedly shared when asked his observations of the youngsters in Utah. “Darryn, Key, Ace, they’re always shooting right here after we’re done playing. They’re always working out together, they’re always going over stuff — they just never want to stop working.”

“They should be proud of themselves for the work they’ve put in. I don’t ever have to say that to them, because they always want so much more for themselves.”

Which leads us perfectly to the next level of Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and it’s all about the improvements made in Utah’s young core.

Center: Self-Improvement

Utah took a very traditional approach when it came to rebuilding. Tearing the team down to nothing and rebuilding through the draft is textbook for a small-market franchise, and the Jazz did just that.

And the reward for their labors is one of the more intriguing batches of young talent in basketball.

Keyonte George, obviously, took a massive leap in his third year, turning himself from a mid-first-round draft pick into a fundamental piece of Utah’s future. Look no further than his freshly inked 5-year, $157.5 million extension for evidence of the organization’s faith in him.

But to shift the prevailing narrative and turn the page of his career from that of a promising up-and-comer to a certifiable star, his defense needs to improve. He knows it, and he wasn’t shy when acknowledging the focus he’s put into growing as a defender.

“Whether it’s learning personnel, being a good help-side defender, being a good one-on-one defender, being one of the guys that you don’t really want to hunt towards the end of the game, that’s what I’ve been focused on. So that’s the strength, different footwork, and different technical stuff.”

Keyonte’s development isn’t all hypothetical, either. He made it clear that he’s made observable improvement in two specific facets of the game.

“I’m able to move better — stay in front. This year, the main thing for me is really focusing on personnel, because once you start to pick up on players’ go-to moves and you figure out how teams want to play, you can play the game within the game on that side, so that’s what I’ve been focusing on.”

Ace Bailey possesses clear potential to bloom into stardom, and is building muscle onto his slender frame — a much-needed development for a player whose height will likely match him up against the full-grown men who terrorize the NBA from their perch on the wings.

The rest of the original young core, Filipowski, Sensabaugh, and Collier, are all pursuing internal improvement to earn a permanent place with this team before the winning train is soaring down the tracks.

Filipowski revealed a lingering injury — a herniated disc — that had been hindering his performance a season ago but has since fully recovered.

Brice Sensabaugh understands that he may have to wait until restricted free agency to re-sign with the Jazz, but plans to utilize this season as a method to cement his place on the roster.

“I’m just keeping my head on straight,” Sensabaugh resolved. “And you know, whatever happens happens.”

Development of the young core is essential to raising the ceiling of this team, but there’s one figure who stands atop it all. His performance, his growth, and his rise will be the biggest difference-maker for a franchise anxious to become an undeniable threat to those who sit atop the NBA.

Peak: DP

No, that DP doesn’t stand for Dr Pepper (which coincidentally is at the top of my personal hierarchy of needs); I’m referring to Darryn Peterson. The final draftee of Utah’s tanking era. The prize for the Jazz’s years of anguish. The player whose arrival marks a great shift in the Jazz’s future.

He needs no further introduction — Darryn Peterson is practically all that Jazz fans have talked about since June — but a few quotes from media day are drenching Peterson’s already blazing flame of hype and converting it into a fireball monstrous enough to send Smokey Bear into retirement on sight.

And the most notable quote of all belongs to Mo Bamba, of all people.

Having played for 7 different NBA franchises in his 8-year career, Bamba has shared the court with many exceptional players. When asked if Peterson reminds him of any players across the league, Bamba laughed as he drew a gargantuan comparison.

“This is going to sound crazy, but I see a lot of Kawhi in him,” said Bamba. “Quiet, bucket-getter, mid-range… Obviously two very different positions, but I see a lot of Kawhi.”

“I was talking to Nurk a couple of weeks ago, and he sees a lot of Dame, and I think that one is a little more comparable, because position-wise, scoring-wise, pull-up game, offensive talent-wise, and capability-wise.”

“I hate that Darryn is going to see this,” he laughed.

But if the Kawhi comparisons make you concerned about Peterson’s personality, Keyonte George’s declaration of friendship should put any anti-social allegations to bed.

“We sit next to each other in the locker room. We hang out with each other off the court. I go to his house and he comes to my house. We got the same dog. So, like, I mean… that’s my dog!”

It may take Darryn Peterson a few years to truly become a star for the Utah Jazz, but if you direct your attention to Jazzlow’s Hierarchy of Needs, a clear and reliable foundation sits beneath him.

Utah’s path to self-actualization is not hypothetical — this is a team built to reach that peak.

Calvin Barrett is the Associate Editor for SLC Dunk. Originally from Springville, Utah, he currently lives in Japan and has covered the NBA and college athletics since 2024.

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NBA Media Day 2026 news and notes: Nikola Jokic says 'I'm gonna sign next year'

Usually, NBA media days can feel scripted and sterile — but this year we got some actual news. Jalen Duren was a no-show in Detroit, and he will not be there for the start of training camp. There was news about Kristaps Porzingis with the Warriors and Brandon Ingram with the Clippers. And if you want to know what LeBron James said in Philadelphia, Jalen Brunson in New York, or Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio, we've got you covered.

That was not all that happened, here is more news from around the NBA as most teams had their media days.

Nikola Jokic not going anywhere

When Nikola Jokic chose not to sign an extension with the Nuggets this summer — which was a smart financial move if he wants to sign for more next summer — it raised a few eyebrows around the league, and teams decided to monitor the situation. Then the league's rumor mongers jumped in and ran with it.

Jokic shot all that down at media day in Denver. As he does every time he is asked about this.

"I'm gonna sign next year, if they want me."

This summer, Jokic could have extended for four years, $276 million. Next summer, Jokic can sign for five years and a projected $357 million, with a no-trade clause. This new contract would take him through age 36.

Ben Simmons has chip on shoulder

One might have thought star rookie Darius Acuff would have been the talk of Sacramento Kings media day, but much of the attention was on a guy on a non-guaranteed minimum contract: Ben Simmons.

Simmons was out of the NBA last season and with that heard a lot of "he doesn't love the game" comments, but Simmons pushed back on that speaking to the media.

"I think that was more so my body. It wasn't about if I wanted to play. All these people talk about, I don't love the game. That's bulls***. I love this game. If I didn't, I wouldn't have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I'm at...

"I miss playing the game a lot, but it's hard to do when you're not physically right. I'm healthy, and I'm able to compete every day."

Sacramento is looking for a reliable veteran backup to play behind Acuff. Can Simmons be that guy? He is going to get a chance.

Other news, notes from media days

• San Antonio's Dylan Harper is one of the pre-season favorites to win Sixth Man of the Year (he has the second shortest odds at DraftKings, behind OKC's Ajay Mitchell). Harper told GQ’s Cam Wolf he wants no part of that.

"What's the political answer here? I'm going to do whatever the team needs me to do, man. If that's come off the bench…. That's crazy. F*** no. I ain't coming off no bench."

• Telling Stephen Curry that many pundits do not expect the Warriors to make the playoffs had him leaving the podium.

• While we're in Golden State, Jimmy Butler did not go with a new hairstyle for media day this year, but check out those earrings.

• Anthony Davis said he is going to play out this season in Washington on his current ($58.5 million) contract, and "when the season is over. I'm going to go through the season, and kind of do what I do at a high level, and then, when it's over, you know, sit down and have those key conversations again with the front office." Davis has a player option for next season of $62.8 million,

• In Portland, Damian Lillard will start at one of the guard spots, but who starts at the other spot? Ja Morant? Jrue Holiday? Scoot Henderson. Morant said he would be fine coming off the bench.

"I think winning is the most important thing for me. So whatever role I have to play to get that done, I don't think anybody would be mad after a win. As a starter, if I'm starting, if I'm not, it's the same thing. It's day one right now, I feel like that's coach's questions, but for me I have no problem with either."

• As expected, the Charlotte Hornets waived former No. 8 pick Rob Dillingham, who is now a free agent.

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NBA Media Day 2026 news and notes: Nikola Jokic says 'I'm gonna sign next year'

Usually, NBA media days can feel scripted and sterile — but this year we got some actual news. Jalen Duren was a no-show in Detroit, and he will not be there for the start of training camp. There was news about Kristaps Porzingis with the Warriors and Brandon Ingram with the Clippers. And if you want to know what LeBron James said in Philadelphia, Jalen Brunson in New York, or Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio, we've got you covered.

That was not all that happened, here is more news from around the NBA as most teams had their media days.

Nikola Jokic not going anywhere

When Nikola Jokic chose not to sign an extension with the Nuggets this summer — which was a smart financial move if he wants to sign for more next summer — it raised a few eyebrows around the league, and teams decided to monitor the situation. Then the league's rumor mongers jumped in and ran with it.

Jokic shot all that down at media day in Denver. As he does every time he is asked about this.

"I'm gonna sign next year, if they want me."

This summer, Jokic could have extended for four years, $276 million. Next summer, Jokic can sign for five years and a projected $357 million, with a no-trade clause. This new contract would take him through age 36.

Ben Simmons has chip on shoulder

One might have thought star rookie Darius Acuff would have been the talk of Sacramento Kings media day, but much of the attention was on a guy on a non-guaranteed minimum contract: Ben Simmons.

Simmons was out of the NBA last season and with that heard a lot of "he doesn't love the game" comments, but Simmons pushed back on that speaking to the media.

"I think that was more so my body. It wasn't about if I wanted to play. All these people talk about, I don't love the game. That's bulls***. I love this game. If I didn't, I wouldn't have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I'm at...

"I miss playing the game a lot, but it's hard to do when you're not physically right. I'm healthy, and I'm able to compete every day."

Sacramento is looking for a reliable veteran backup to play behind Acuff. Can Simmons be that guy? He is going to get a chance.

Other news, notes from media days

• San Antonio's Dylan Harper is one of the pre-season favorites to win Sixth Man of the Year (he has the second shortest odds at DraftKings, behind OKC's Ajay Mitchell). Harper told GQ’s Cam Wolf he wants no part of that.

"What's the political answer here? I'm going to do whatever the team needs me to do, man. If that's come off the bench…. That's crazy. F*** no. I ain't coming off no bench."

• Telling Stephen Curry that many pundits do not expect the Warriors to make the playoffs had him leaving the podium.

• While we're in Golden State, Jimmy Butler did not go with a new hairstyle for media day this year, but check out those earrings.

• Anthony Davis said he is going to play out this season in Washington on his current ($58.5 million) contract, and "when the season is over. I'm going to go through the season, and kind of do what I do at a high level, and then, when it's over, you know, sit down and have those key conversations again with the front office." Davis has a player option for next season of $62.8 million,

• In Portland, Damian Lillard will start at one of the guard spots, but who starts at the other spot? Ja Morant? Jrue Holiday? Scoot Henderson. Morant said he would be fine coming off the bench.

"I think winning is the most important thing for me. So whatever role I have to play to get that done, I don't think anybody would be mad after a win. As a starter, if I'm starting, if I'm not, it's the same thing. It's day one right now, I feel like that's coach's questions, but for me I have no problem with either."

• As expected, the Charlotte Hornets waived former No. 8 pick Rob Dillingham, who is now a free agent.

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Golden Knights Starting Over, but Fueled by ‘Unfinished Business’

A certain energy has crackled in the air at City National Arena throughout training camp and the preseason. There is a hunger, a sense of urgency that has nothing to do with the shortened preseason. And everyone in the Vegas Golden Knights organization, from the players to the head coach to the general manager, speaks of unfinished business. 

By now, everyone knows the story of the 2025-26 Vegas Golden Knights. After a regular season full of struggles that led to a late-season coaching change, they went on an improbable Cinderella run in the playoffs. With John Tortorella at the helm, the Golden Knights dispatched the Utah Mammoth, breezed by the Anaheim Ducks, and swept the President’s Trophy-winning Colorado Avalanche.

Winning their second Stanley Cup in franchise history would have been the perfect ending to an unbelievable story; ultimately, the Golden Knights fell just two wins short of the ultimate goal. 

“The belief of our organization is there’s unfinished business,” said first-year head coach Ryan Craig at the start of training camp. “When I use the words starting over, it’s because we don’t get back to that point without starting at zero again in the regular season and earning our way back to having that opportunity. 

“When I say we’re starting over, we are,” Craig continued. “We started over today. But the guys that were on this team last year have unfinished business; our organization has unfinished business in the sense of where our standards are and what we hope to accomplish.”

Summer is over now, and while the pain of losing is no longer raw, it left scars that can only be healed by the joy of winning. 

“Obviously, it was disappointing last year to go as far as we did and not come out victorious,” said Golden Knights captain Mark Stone on Monday. “It’s the first time I’ve been that far without winning.”

Monday morning marked the first official practice of the regular season, and the sense of urgency only increased. The Golden Knights host the Chicago Blackhawks for their home opener on Tuesday night, and they know that they have to start strong to reach the top of the summit once more.

“Every year is a new challenge, and this year’s no different,” Stone said following Monday’s practice. “We’ll have to try and dial in a good start to the season, to bank points, because they all matter at the end of the day. If you can get off to a good start, those lulls in the middle of the season that you’re gonna have are less magnified.”

Saying that players want to play games that matter isn’t anything new. But this year, for the Golden Knights, the start of the regular season isn’t just an end to meaningless preseason hockey. 

It’s a shot at redemption.

“We’re starting at game one,” said head coach Ryan Craig on Monday. “So, how are we going to build ourselves back to… an opportunity to take care of business? I want to see the group continue to play to their strengths and understand who they are. To figure that out, we’re gonna have to go through the highs and lows of the season. 

“There’s lots of stuff for us to figure out as a group,” Craig continued. “It’s a long journey that we’re excited about. We’re gonna learn a lot about each other individually and then as a group… I’m excited to see the urgency level rise from exhibition to game one. I think it’s gonna jump here quite a bit because, you know, even though we’ve only been in camp for 11 days, the guys are ready to play. I’m happy that we’re playing game one.”

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Built for October, Padres plan on World Series return after 28 years

SAN DIEGO — The last time the Chicago Cubs laid eyes on the San Diego Padres they had to refrain from laughing aloud in their faces.

It was July 1 at Wrigley Field.

And the Cubs humiliated the Padres, winning 23-3, with No. 9 hitter Dansby Swanson hitting three home runs and driving in eight runs, handing the Padres their worst loss in the 58-year history of the franchise.

It was the Cubs’ fifth consecutive victory, and the Padres’ fifth consecutive loss, leaving the Padres’ season on the brink.

Well, here they are meeting again, and, oh, how so much has changed.

The Padres these days just so happen to be the hottest team in baseball, winning 17 of their last 20 games, to not only storm into the postseason, but clinch the top wild-card spot, hosting the Cubs in the best-of-three wild-card series.

It’s a rematch of the wild-card series a year ago, only this time the games will all be played at raucous Petco Park and not Wrigley Field.

The Padres (91-71) are in the postseason for the third consecutive year, fifth time in the last seven years, and believing this time around they could go where they have never gone before in franchise history.

That’s winning a World Series.

They’ve been to the big stage twice, back in 1984 when they knocked off the Cubs in the NLCS before losing in five games to the Detroit Tigers, and again in 1998 when they were swept by the New York Yankees.

They’re ready to give it another go.

The Padres might have a rotation held together by duct tape, but they have the nastiest bullpen in all of the land. No team can shorten games like the Padres with All-Star closer Mason Miller, setup man Adrian Morejon, and rookie Bradgley Rodriguez.

“We played them in a playoff series last year and understand how their bullpen is going to work and how they're going to use Miller and Morejon,’’ Cubs manager Craig Counsell says, “and this year Bradgley Rodriguez has been added to that group as somebody who is pretty darn good.

“We've got to have good at-bats. We've got to make ourselves tough outs, and we're going to have to score against the bullpen, too, and we have scored against their bullpen. So I think we're confident.’’

MLB PLAYOFF POWER RANKINGS: All 12 teams by chances to win World Series

The Padres, who keep knocking on the playoff door without getting through, still are haunted by not putting away the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024. They were up two games to one in the best-of-five division series, had Game 4 at home, and were shut out in the next two games. They lost in three games to the Cubs last year at Wrigley Field in the wild-card round.

But this time around, they truly believe their fate will be different.

“I think we're firing on all cylinders,’’ says Padres ace Michael King, who will start Game 1 against Cubs starter Matthew Boyd. “I think the last two months, two and a half months, the offense has possibly been the best in baseball. We've really come together as a starting rotation, and the bullpen is obviously a strong piece.

“I think that, when you look at us, we don't really have many weaknesses. ... We're very confident in what we've been doing the last few weeks, and we're very happy that this is the time that we got hot, and we've just got to continue it throughout all this postseason.’’

CUBS VS PADRES PREDICTIONS: Who do experts think will win NL wild-card series?

Padres star third baseman Manny Machado, who produced his lowest OPS (.711) in his career, batting just .217, still managed to hit 30 homers and drive in 91 runs. Fernando Tatis Jr., who didn’t homer until May 30, still hit .289 with 25 homers and 83 RBI. And they got huge production out of first baseman Ty France, signed to a minor-league contract this spring, who hit 21 homers with 72 RBI.

This is why Machado believes this version of the Padres is the best since his arrival in 2019, and could finally be the one that knocks off their mighty neighbors to the north, the Dodgers.

The San Diego Padres' Manny Machado celebrates after hitting a three-run home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park on Sept. 26, 2026.

Machado might already have his sights set on the Dodgers. He asked a reporter on Monday, Sept. 28 why he was wearing a bright blue suit that resembled Dodger colors.

“Are you for San Diego,’’ he asked the local reporter.

Reporter: “I am.’’

Machado: “Why are you wearing blue?

Reporter: “Do you like it?’’

Machado: “Obviously not. I'm just asking.’’

So why does Machado believe this team has its best chance to be playing in late October?

“I mean, experience,’’ he said. “At the end of the day, it goes back to experience. We have a lot of the same group that was here last year. Hopefully we get a lot further. But ultimately, I think it's just believing in ourselves, believing in the group that we have in there and go out there and just continue to do what we've been doing.’’

Even though the Cubs ended the Padres’ season last year, and beat them up during the season by winning five of six games, Machado insists there will be no carry-over effect.

“It's a new year, it's a different year,’’ Machado said. “Obviously, that stung last year for us. They played better ball than us last year. This year's going to be a little bit different.

“Playing in front of our home crowd and playing in front of these fans here, I think it's going to be a lot different. Definitely looking forward to that rematch for sure.’’

The Padres enjoy one of the greatest home-field advantages in baseball, playing in front of fans that pack the joint nearly on a nightly basis. The Padres went a sizzling 26-6 in their last 32 home games this season.

“I think being at home is huge,’’ Machado said. “We love playing here, playing in front of this crowd, playing in the stadium. Obviously sleeping at home and being at home is a big advantage, but I think the biggest one is playing in front of the home crowd. They've brought the energy all year. They're going to continue to do it.

“To have a postseason here at home in front of them, they're definitely going to bring the energy, and I think we all feed off of that.’’

The Cubs realize what a difference it can make playing at home themselves at Wrigley Field, but instead of being intimidated, plan to embrace the hostility.

“They have a great atmosphere,” Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner told reporters in Tampa Bay on Sunday after their regular-season finale. “It’s probably one of the places that’s changed the most over the last 10 years or so. They have a great fan base. It’ll be electric, a lot of fun and challenging.”

The winner of the series will face the Milwaukee Brewers, who won an MLB-leading 103 games, and ended the Cubs’ season a year ago.

This time around, the Padres want to be the ones to take a crack at the powerful Brewers, but first, they’ve got to get past the Cubs, who will have third Alex Bregman back in the lineup who suffered eight fractured bones in his face when hit by foul ball standing near the on-deck circle a week ago.

Bregman, who took a ground ball for the first time in a week on Monday, showed that he was ready with the bat Sunday when he went 4-for-4 with two homers.

“He's the man, to be honest,’’ Cubs reliever Jacob Webb said. “That's tough to do. That's really cool and shows the kind of character that he has going through such a crazy injury. I mean, you're putting your career on the line at that point, but he's always prepared.

“He's a good dude. He knows what he's doing. He has his plan, and I think that's the biggest thing, is he wants to be here. He wants to win.’’

No offense, the Padres say, but they would love to send Bregman home early, giving him all winter to heal.

“We're steady,’’ King said. “We're confident. And we're going to go play Padres baseball.’’

Follow Bob Nightengale on X: @Bnightengale.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Built for October, Padres plan on World Series return after 28 years

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Bronny James adjusts to Lakers' life without LeBron: 'Feels like he's not here'

Bronny James wanted to make it clear who came out on top the last time he played his father in golf.

"I won," James told reporters as he cracked a smile at Los Angeles Lakers media day on Monday, Sept. 28. "He's pretty pissed about this."

It was a quick, lighthearted moment that drew laughs from those in attendance, but it also helped address the elephant in the room: for the first time in his now three-year NBA career, Bronny won't be sharing a locker room with LeBron James.

"Feels like he's not here," James said matter of factly. "I don't really have an opinion on that. That's my dad, I spent 22 years, almost, with him. Just another experience that I'm gonna be a part of, and I'm excited to see how it's gonna feel during the season, too. Looking forward to it."

LAKERS SEASON PREVIEW: Lineup, roster, prediction and biggest question mark

LeBron James left the Lakers for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency this summer, marking an end to the first father-son duo to ever take the court together in an NBA game after two years as teammates. Bronny James spent much of that time in the G League, but he made a leap in year two last season and cracked the rotation in the Lakers' first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets.

Now, with an almost entirely new cast of teammates centered around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, he sees room for even more growth as he sets off on his own path.

"It's just something that I've followed my entire life," James said. "You guys know me as Bronny, my real name is LeBron. I've been doing this for however long, so I think it's a motivating factor for me just getting up every day and trying to prove myself as Bronny instead of LeBron."

Bronny James has been focused on trying to be the most consistent version of himself over the offseason. The 21-year-old guard has been showing up every day to work on his dribbling, playmaking and "being relentless" on both ends of the court. He knows versatility is a priority in coach JJ Redick's new scheme, and his best chance to get minutes is as a secondary ballhandler on offense and a point-of-attack defender when Dončić and Reaves are off the floor.

He's also gotten to know his new teammates pretty well, accompanying them on the team's trip to Slovenia. There, James told reporters, is where he felt the chemistry start to take off.

"We had some runs in practice, figuring out each other's game and just chilling off the court, getting to know each other," he said. "... I think that's going to carry over into the season pretty well."

AUSTIN REAVES: Embraces new role as leader in LA

Not only does this year's Lakers squad look different, they'll be playing differently than they did in JJ Redick's first two years as head coach. Redick has already mentioned he'll be switching up the defensive scheme to more man-on-man with newly acquired Walker Kessler parked near the paint to clean up anything that may come his way. Reaves and several other players also talked about a fast-paced free-flowing offense with less pick-and-roll.

"Everyone's young," James said. "... I feel like we can feed off each other's energy and there's gonna be a lot of guys that can go out, give full effort and turn up the game."

LeBron James, meanwhile, made it clear that he didn't make his free agency decision – possibly the last one of his 24-year NBA career – lightly, telling reporters in Philadelphia that "I didn’t leave my family to lose in the second round. I know that for sure. Work needs to be done, and I’m ready to get to work."

While he got the blessing of the entire James family, Bronny said it wasn't cathartic moment by any means.

"We're men of very little words when it comes to talking about business and what we're gonna do and how we feel about each other," James said. "Wasn't really much, to be honest with you. He's got his own path and I've got my own. ... And he knows that I want to focus on that."

Those two paths are set to converge once more on Dec. 25, when the Lakers host the the 76ers at Crypto.com Arena in LeBron's return to Los Angeles.

"I'm excited to see him on Christmas," Bronny said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bronny James adjusts to Lakers' life without LeBron: 'Feels like he's not here'

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Bronny James adjusts to Lakers' life without LeBron: 'Feels like he's not here'

Bronny James wanted to make it clear who came out on top the last time he played his father in golf.

"I won," James told reporters as he cracked a smile at Los Angeles Lakers media day on Monday, Sept. 28. "He's pretty pissed about this."

It was a quick, lighthearted moment that drew laughs from those in attendance, but it also helped address the elephant in the room: for the first time in his now three-year NBA career, Bronny won't be sharing a locker room with LeBron James.

"Feels like he's not here," James said matter of factly. "I don't really have an opinion on that. That's my dad, I spent 22 years, almost, with him. Just another experience that I'm gonna be a part of, and I'm excited to see how it's gonna feel during the season, too. Looking forward to it."

LAKERS SEASON PREVIEW: Lineup, roster, prediction and biggest question mark

LeBron James left the Lakers for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency this summer, marking an end to the first father-son duo to ever take the court together in an NBA game after two years as teammates. Bronny James spent much of that time in the G League, but he made a leap in year two last season and cracked the rotation in the Lakers' first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets.

Now, with an almost entirely new cast of teammates centered around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, he sees room for even more growth as he sets off on his own path.

"It's just something that I've followed my entire life," James said. "You guys know me as Bronny, my real name is LeBron. I've been doing this for however long, so I think it's a motivating factor for me just getting up every day and trying to prove myself as Bronny instead of LeBron."

Bronny James has been focused on trying to be the most consistent version of himself over the offseason. The 21-year-old guard has been showing up every day to work on his dribbling, playmaking and "being relentless" on both ends of the court. He knows versatility is a priority in coach JJ Redick's new scheme, and his best chance to get minutes is as a secondary ballhandler on offense and a point-of-attack defender when Dončić and Reaves are off the floor.

He's also gotten to know his new teammates pretty well, accompanying them on the team's trip to Slovenia. There, James told reporters, is where he felt the chemistry start to take off.

"We had some runs in practice, figuring out each other's game and just chilling off the court, getting to know each other," he said. "... I think that's going to carry over into the season pretty well."

AUSTIN REAVES: Embraces new role as leader in LA

Not only does this year's Lakers squad look different, they'll be playing differently than they did in JJ Redick's first two years as head coach. Redick has already mentioned he'll be switching up the defensive scheme to more man-on-man with newly acquired Walker Kessler parked near the paint to clean up anything that may come his way. Reaves and several other players also talked about a fast-paced free-flowing offense with less pick-and-roll.

"Everyone's young," James said. "... I feel like we can feed off each other's energy and there's gonna be a lot of guys that can go out, give full effort and turn up the game."

LeBron James, meanwhile, made it clear that he didn't make his free agency decision – possibly the last one of his 24-year NBA career – lightly, telling reporters in Philadelphia that "I didn’t leave my family to lose in the second round. I know that for sure. Work needs to be done, and I’m ready to get to work."

While he got the blessing of the entire James family, Bronny said it wasn't cathartic moment by any means.

"We're men of very little words when it comes to talking about business and what we're gonna do and how we feel about each other," James said. "Wasn't really much, to be honest with you. He's got his own path and I've got my own. ... And he knows that I want to focus on that."

Those two paths are set to converge once more on Dec. 25, when the Lakers host the the 76ers at Crypto.com Arena in LeBron's return to Los Angeles.

"I'm excited to see him on Christmas," Bronny said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bronny James adjusts to Lakers' life without LeBron: 'Feels like he's not here'

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Blue Jackets trade Marchenko to Maple Leafs as part of major 7-player deal

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — After saying that Kirill Marchenko would be with the Columbus Blue Jackets for the start of the season, general manager Don Waddell dealt the forward as part of a major seven-player deal to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday as NHL teams were finalizing their opening week rosters.

The Blue Jackets also dealt goaltender Elvis Merzlikins and left wing Miles Wood to the Maple Leafs for left wing Matthew Knies, defenseman Emil Andrae, center Steven Lorentz and a conditional second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft.

Marchenko was in the last year of his contract, but agreed to a six-year $75 million extension with the Maple Leafs. He relayed to Columbus' front office before the draft in June that he didn't intend to sign an extension with the Blue Jackets.

Waddell said the situation with Marchenko and star defenseman Zach Werenski were not the same. The Norris Trophy winner also said during the offseason he wasn't ready to sign an extension, but also vetoed a trade to the Dallas Stars.

“I’ve had discussions with his agent, which we won’t discuss right now, but Marchenko’s going to be a Blue Jackets when the season starts,” Waddell said on July 2.

The 26-year old Russian was a second-round pick by the Blue Jackets in the 2018 draft. He didn't make his NHL debut until 2022, but tied or led the team in scoring the past three seasons.

Marchenko had a team-high 27 goals last season and was second in points with 67. He had 102 goals and 208 points during his four seasons in Columbus.

In Knies, the Blue Jackets get a forward who battled injuries last season, but still finished with a career-best 66 points, including 23 goals. He is expected to be on one of the top two scoring lines.

The 23-year-old Knies was previously viewed as an important piece of Toronto’s future. He had a career-high 29 goals and 58 points in 2024-25 playing on a line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner.

“Matthew is a big, strong power forward who combines tough, hard-nosed physical play with outstanding offensive skills,” Waddell said in a statement after the trade was announced. “He is a young player with great character and work ethic and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome him to the Blue Jackets family.”

Merzlikins is currently on long-term injured reserve with a shoulder injury. He had a 14-11-3 record with a 3.40 goals-against average and .993 save percentage in 30 appearances last season as a backup to Blue Jackets starter Jet Greaves.

Wood, recently put on waivers, has 99 goals and 97 assists in 567 career games with New Jersey, Colorado and Columbus.

Lorentz, a Stanley Cup winner with the Florida Panthers in 2024, had 15 goals and 22 assists over two seasons in Toronto.

Andrae ended a very short tenure in Toronto. He was acquired in a June trade with Philadelphia. Andrae had three goals and 17 assists over 107 games with the Flyers, who selected him in the second round of the 2020 NHL draft.

___

See AP’s full NHL coverage here

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"Good To Have Him On The Ice:" Red Wings Welcome Dylan Larkin's Presence In Practice

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With only days separating them from the start of the 2026-27 NHL campaign, the Detroit Red Wings continue to face more questions than answers. 

In the first place, defenseman Simon Edvinsson remains a restricted free agent and, despite having reported to Training Camp and taken part in non-scrimmage drills, is ineligible to play without a contract. 

Secondly, former captain Dylan Larkin remains with the club despite his trade request that became public knowledge in early June. 

Larkin, who suffered an off-ice training injury just before the start of Training Camp, has skated with his teammates the last few days, but did not appear in any of Detroit's four preseason games (neither did Edvinsson). 

While his status for Detroit's regular season opener on Oct. 2 has yet to be decided, Larkin has participated in the last handful of practices, something his teammates say is a positive.

"It's good," said defenseman Moritz Seider about having Larkin on the ice in practice. "Obviously, he's still dealing with his injury, that's why he's probably not in the regular lines right now. But it's good to see him out there. He brings a lot of energy, and everyone is excited." 

According to head coach Todd McLellan, Larkin's presence is a positive, while also noting he has some work to do to get back up to speed after missing all of Training Camp and the entire preseason slate of games. 

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"It's good to have him on the ice; I think that's where it's the most comfortable for everybody," McLellan said. "He's a hockey player and a really good hockey player. He's looked like he's had some time off, and he needs to skate a little bit more."

"I paid a little more attention to him today; with his injury, the training part of it isn't quite where it would normally be, and we're two weeks ahead of him now," he continued. "So, like any injury, even if it's during the middle of the season, you have to get back up to pace. And we'll help him with that." 

As far as his status for Friday's season opener, McLellan said that's still up in the air.

"He has - I believe he has a doctor's appointment today at some point, and we'll get more of a feedback from the physicians at that time to see where he's at," McLellan said. 

Larkin is coming off his fifth-straight season of reaching at least 30 goals scored. But he is no longer the club's captain, a role he'd held since being named the official successor to Henrik Zetterberg in January 2021. 

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What's next for Mets? David Stearns breaks down Bo Bichette, Brett Baty, Kodai Senga and 2027 roster

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns met with the media Monday in his end-of-season news conference. From first base plans and Pete Alonsofallout to the starting rotation's outlook and second base's starter, Stearns' 2026 reflection and 2027 outlook were covered extensively on SNY.

"I'm always under pressure," Stearns said. "My job is to put a winning team on here, on the field, every single year. That hasn't changed from the day I sat up here for my introductory press conference to when I'm sitting up here right now."

What other key topics did Stearns discuss? From the Mets' roster to New York's retooled coaching staff and front office, here is a closer look.

Bo Bichette's opt-out decision remains ongoing

Bichette has time to opt in or out of his contract with the Mets. He and Stearns "have not had those discussions."

"I have not had those discussions with Bo," Stearns said of Bichette, who slashed .260/.312/.390 with 18 home runs and 78 RBI in 160 games. "He's got the right now to take some space, discuss with his family and his agent, and I'm sure he'll get back to us."

Brett Baty's September momentum

Baty slashed .333/.417/.608 with three home runs and 16 RBI in September, capping his fourth full season since his Aug. 17, 2022, debut. Will he take another step in 2027?

"The truth is we won't know," Stearns said of Baty, who slashed .236./.309/.371 with 11 home runs and 56 RBI in 143 games. "I do think, having been around Brett for multiple years now -- I think where he is from a mindset perspective, his level of belief in himself and how he works through an at-bat, is different right now. But as with any player, until you see it for an extended period, very difficult for me to sit here right now and have complete certainty on that."

Ronny Mauricio's 'flash'

Mauricio, who broke out with two home runs this past weekend to cap a 20-game sample size with the Mets this season, has a pivotal offseason entering the 2027 campaign.

"He's among them," Stearns said of Mauricio, who slashed .220/.258/.441 with four home runs and eight RBI. "Ronny goes into next year out of options. We saw the flash of potential over the last couple days. That was exciting for us to see -- I think great for him to experience going into the offseason, and so he's among them. I think he comes into spring training next year competing for a spot."

Francisco Alvarez's 'really encouraging' second half

Alvarez slashed .233/.311/.399 with 16 home runs and 43 RBI in 113 games but left Stearns impressed elsewhere.

"Probably up and down," Stearns said of Alvarez's fourth MLB season. "But we've seen, I think -- again, the second half Francisco behind the plate was really encouraging. I think his defense took a step forward behind the plate. His command of the pitching staff and game-calling took a step forward in the second half. Really a credit to him for not getting down and frustrated, and a credit to our coaching staff for getting him there."

Kodai Senga's to-be-determined role

Senga started 8 of 31 games and moved to the bullpen. Will he remain a reliever or return to his role in the starting rotation?

"I think we'll make that determination as we get into spring training and see where we are," Stearns said. "We know where Kodai's passion is. He's been very honest with that. We also understand that we need a level of production, in whatever role he's going to be in, to contribute to a winning team. And so, we'll ultimately make that role determination as we get into next year."

Bullpen options

Whether or not the Mets' bullpen includes Senga, Stearns sees options among the returning arms.

"I give Devin (Williams) a lot of credit for working his tail off to getting back here and being able to pitch a couple games in September," Stearns said of Williams (right shoulder strain) returning from a late-season stint on the injured list to make two relief appearances. "I think that was important for us. It was important for Devin. He's now going to have a completely normal offseason. He's healthy, he feels great and we expect him to be a big part in the back end of the bullpen going forward.

"We also feel really good about some of the younger guys who stepped up in a big way over the last two months, whether that's aNate Lavenderor (Dedniel Núñez) coming back or (Daniel) Duarte taking some leverage innings. We saw flashes from (Jefry) Yan that make you believe that there's a level in there that he can be one of the better left-handed relievers in baseball. Again, we need to see consistency, and we recognize that, and there's inevitable volatility in bullpens. But I think what we saw out of that group collectively was very encouraging."

Reed Garrett, Tylor Megill eye spring in Tommy John rehabs

Garrett and Megill are set to enter the spring at 100 percent after missing the 2026 season due to surgeries in 2025, Stearns said.

"They've both been around the team over the last couple weeks," Stearns said. "Great to see them. We expect them to be full go in spring training."

Stearns did not say whether Megill, a starter before he went down with his injury, would be a reliever when asked.

"I think he's going to come and compete, and we believe he can contribute on the team," Stearns said of Megill, who is a career 26-26 with a 4.46 ERA in 88 games (81 starts). "He'll ramp up for starter workload over the offseason and come to spring training, compete."

Jared Young's concussion recovery 'going well'

Young, who sustained a concussion in the past two weeks, is doing "well" after the "scary" incident against the Philadelphia Phillies.

"Concussions are serious, and obviously that was as ugly as it gets on a baseball field and scary," Stearns said of Young, who slashed .266/.330/.429 with nine home runs and 39 RBI in 103 games. "Right now, everything seems to be going well. But concussions are serious, and we've got to see how this goes."

Derek Falvey's addition to front office

The Mets added to the front office this past week when they hired Falvey as their senior advisor for baseball operations.

"Derek's in the office today," Stearns said. "He's up and going. Derek, in my estimation, is one of the better executives in our sport. He's got a tremendous amount of experience. He's touched every aspect of baseball operations over the course of his career. He ran the business side in Minnesota as well. So, I think he's going to help us everywhere. He's a great thought partner, can provide some different life experiences and different perspectives, and I'm thrilled that he's on board right now."

Falvey's career includes stints in the front offices of the Cleveland Guardians (2008-16) and Minnesota Twins (2017-26).

"I think you can add to front offices in a variety of different ways," Stearns said. "I think the important part is getting people here who are ready to contribute and want to contribute and can offer us perspectives that will help."

Stearns did not "close the door on" adding to the front office further.

"There's always executive movement in October," Stearns said. "I'm open to adding, as I've always been, if we find the right complements and the right people. So, I wouldn't close the door on anything right now."

Staff movement

Andy Green is the Mets' full-time manager, and "conversations on" his coaching staff will come in the near future.

"Andy and I are going to have conversations on that this week, and we'll get to a decision point here over the next week or so," Stearns said.

With the Mets' 2027 blueprint already taking shape, Green and Stearns look to build on the 2026 season's improved second half.

"I think the manager is always an integral part of that, and I think Andy did a really nice job creating an environment that facilitated that level of connection," Stearns said. "I also think players are responsible for that, and both the players we had here and the younger players and the Triple-A players who joined after the deadline made real effort of that and I'm appreciative of that."

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Young says Rangers need more athleticism and youth

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 28: General Manager Chris Young of the Texas Rangers looks on prior to Game Two of the World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Globe Life Field on October 28, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Texas Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young addressed the media today in the wake of the team’s disappointing 80-82 finish.

I am not sure if this was broadcast live or not, but if it was, I didn’t hear it, because I was busy working. I haven’t seen the DMN or the Rangers website put up any stories about Young’s comments yet, as I’m typing this, but the beats did live-tweet things.

Young said, per the beats, that the Rangers have not exuded enough “toughness and [] grit” the past few seasons, and that has shown in the team’s poor road performance. Young said, per the beats, that “[t]here are some things we need to change in terms of bringing out that grit and toughness . . . that it takes for a team to go on the road, into an opposing city and play in front of opposing fans.”

This year, across MLB, home teams won 52.9% of games, and away teams won 47.1% of games. Last year, it was 54.3% and 45.7% across MLB. The Rangers in 2025 won 59.3% of their home games and 40.7% of their road games, and in 2026 won 55.6% of their home games and 43.2% of their road games. I’m not sure if the issue is grit or toughness or something else, but the Rangers have underperformed on the road the past two years (or overperformed at home).

Something else that jumped out at me is Young saying that the team needs to be more athletic, needs be better defensively and on the basepaths, needs to be younger. I thought that was an interesting comment.

Back in June, I wrote about how the Rangers were epically unsuccessful in going from first to third in the first half of this season. The extreme station-to-station aspect of their baserunning, along with their miserable performance in bases loaded situations (a 549 OPS in 139 plate appearances with the bases loaded, compared to a 746 OPS leaguewide) were two of the biggest reasons why the Rangers’ run scored lagged behind what their overall offensive performance would have suggested that they should have scored.

But its worth asking how it is that the Rangers ended up with a group of position players that are not particularly athletic or good defensively or on the basepaths.

Let’s look at the position player moves the team has made over the past two years, since the end of 2024.

In December, 2024, they signed catcher Kyle Higashioka. Higashioka turned 35 in April of 2025, and wasn’t (and still isn’t) particularly fast or athletic, even for a catcher — he was 62nd out of 83 catchers in sprint speed in 2025, and 76th out of 87 catchers in sprint speed in 2026.

Also in December, 2024, they traded three players for Jake Burger to replace Nathaniel Lowe at first base, desiring more power at the position. Burger is actually just a little below average in sprint speed among MLB players, but he isn’t going to be described by anyone as particularly athletic, or gifted defensively or as a baserunner, and despite how little major league experience he has, he turns 31 at the beginning of 2027.

At the end of December, they signed Joc Pederson to a free agent deal, in what was really the one major move they made in an effort to upgrade the offense. Regardless of the merits of making your big offseason position player move the signing of a platoon DH to a big contract, Pederson — signed for his age 33 and age 34 seasons — is near the bottom of the league in terms of athleticism, defense, and baserunning.

They did add the 36 year old Kevin Pillar as a bench player. He was, once upon a time, a very athletic player, a quality defender and baserunner. There was still some athleticism there, I think, but it was hard to notice when he was slashing .209/.209/.256. I don’t think I realize until now he never ended up drawing a walk in 2025.

There was also Sam Haggerty off the bench, and he had a little of that speed and athleticism Young was talking about, but he was also a role player, and though he came back in 2026, he got quickly released because he couldn’t hit.

When Jake Burger got hurt, and the team needed to get someone to play first base, they signed free agent Rowdy Tellez, who, well…let’s put it this way. In 2025, there were 579 players with at least 10 opportunities for Statcast to measure their sprint speeds. Tellez was faster than two of them — Sam Huff and Martin Maldonado — and tied with Giancarlo Stanton. The other 575 players were ahead of Tellez.

Come the 2025-26 offseason, once again, the Rangers only made one really big move in regards to the lineup: they traded Marcus Semien to the Mets for Brandon Nimmo. Again, whatever the other motivations and positives that deal provides, its a downgrade in terms of speed, athleticism and defense.

And they added 39 year old Andrew McCutchen, who once upon a team fit the speed/defense/athleticism mold, but not in 2026.

They did add Danny Jansen, who probably has above-average athleticism for a catcher. Then when Jansen and Higashioka got sidelined they signed Einar Diaz out of the free agent scrap heap. Fun fact — Diaz was 80th in sprint speed out of 87 catchers in 2026, one of the few catchers actually slower than Higashioka.

No wonder the organization was so excited about Nicky Lopez’s presence — he’s not, at this stage in his career, someone who is elite in terms of speed or athleticism or defense, but he’s average to a little above in those categories, and on this team, it makes him look like Jim Thorpe.

If you’re identifying position players who you think of as regulars or semi-regulars on the Rangers, Evan Carter, Wyatt Langford, and Ezequiel Duran are the only three who you fit that triumvirate of attributes Young says the team needs. Of course, Carter and Langford also have not been able to stay healthy — and one of the other things that Young said that the team needed to improve upon is its health.

Otherwise…Corey Seager is Corey Seager. You know what he is. Josh Jung is not particularly athletic, is slow, has regressed defensively, and can’t stay healthy. Justin Foscue is much the same.

Here’s the thing that kind of stuck with me when I read those quotes from Young today, though, that prompted me to sit here and pound out what is now over 1000 words on the topic.

If you feel, Chris, that the Rangers are not young enough, not athletic enough, not good enough defensively, then whose fault is that?

How did it happen?

How is it that you would put together a lineup on the position player side over the past two years with moves that have prioritized the team going after primarily older, slower, unathletic players who are limited defensively, and then act surprised that your team is not athletic enough and not good enough on the basepaths and not good enough defensively?

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