NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 24: Roman Anthony #19 of the Boston Red Sox looks on prior to the game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, August 24, 2025 in New York, New York. (Photo by Michael Urakami/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The last meaningful baseball game Roman Anthony played was back on September 2nd against Cleveland where he suffered a strained oblique that ended his season. The following week, ever untrusting of this ownership, we here at Over The Monster asked if Alex Bregman and Roman Anthony had already played their last game together. Well, today we got our answer to that question, and it’s a resounding no!
This is great news for Red Sox fans! Not just because it’s a chance to watch one of the team’s blossoming stars take the field on a national global stage, but also because it gives Anthony experience in this type of game. One of the sneaky worst things about the oblique injury ending his 2025 season early is that it didn’t just take him out of their postseason run run last fall – It also robbed him of some valuable postseason experience, which he could have used to take into future Octobers.
He even may have indirectly touched on this point when asked about potentially joining Team USA earlier this week:
“It would be a great opportunity and a great learning lesson for me, to go be around a bunch of the best players in the game.”
He’s probably talking more about just getting to see how the best in the game go about their business everyday, which is another valuable piece to all of this, but I’m also excited for him to get real at bats in a high leverage, urgent, and chaotic baseball environment. You simply can’t replicate that until you’ve stood in the box and experienced the mayhem.
Back in 2024 when Anthony was in Worcester, I asked him about postseason baseball and how much he pays attention to it. His answer was interesting:
“I always watch postseason baseball. Just watching the games, the atmosphere, the electricity of it. There’s nothing like it.
You can also learn a lot. Just turning on a game and watching a complete baseball game, there’s so many lessons. You can pick up a lot more than just going and watching highlights. Not enough people do it, and I try to do it as much as I can.”
Well, the WBC is not quite postseason baseball, but with the way it’s growing and the way the last one ended, I’d argue it’s the closest thing to it. Now, Roman Anthony is going to get firsthand experience in it, and with the way he operates like a sponge, that’s probably going to be a good thing for the Red Sox come October (if he can help carry them there).
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — After 21 seasons — which included 11 All-NBA nods, nine All-Defensive Teams and being a member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary team — Chris Paul announced he is retiring from the NBA.
Paul started the season with the Clippers, but things did not go according to plan. He was traded to Toronto at the deadline, and with the Raptors releasing him on Friday, Paul confirmed he was retiring in an Instagram post.
"This is it! After over 21 years I'm stepping away from basketball...
"While this chapter of being an 'NBA player' is done, the game of basketball will forever be ingrained in the DNA of my life. I've been in the NBA for more than half of my life, spanning three decades. It's crazy even saying that! Playing basketball for a living has been an unbelievable blessing that also came with lots of responsibility. I embraced it all. The good and the bad."
Paul will go down as one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game and his next stop will be the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
"Chris is a legend, man," said his former teammate and current NBC broadcaster Austin Rivers. "I think people get so caught up in the little things with Chris – and I call them little because they are, they're not in any way even of value compared to what he's done in basketball...
"Chris has cemented his legacy so long ago, he's one of the greatest point guards to ever play. Some of the most meaningful years of my career were playing with Chris. I got to back up Chris. Chris taught me how to be a pro, taught me how to approach the game with such a seriousness. He's one of the most competitive people I've ever seen in my life.
"I'm really happy for him that he's able to be at peace with basketball. He should. He's a top-five point guard to ever touch the ball, and only four other guys can say that."
Paul was a legend for his ability to squeeze out every little advantage he could find. He was the master of two-for-ones at the end of quarters, or calling out opponents whose jerseys were not tucked in, or any other little edge he thought he could gain. While Paul's intensity wore on some teammates, it also made the teams he was on winners. CP3 talked about this in his retirement announcement.
"As a lifelong learner, leadership is hard and is not for the weak. Some will like you and many people won't. But the goal was always the goal, and my intentions were always sincere (Damn, I love competing!). It feels really good knowing that I played and treated this game with the utmost respect since the day my dad introduced me to it."
Paul retires averaging 16.8 points, 9.2 assists, and 4.4 rebounds a game, while shooting 37% from 3-point range. He was a 12-time All-Star, a six-time league leader in steals, a five-time leader in assists, and the 2006 Rookie of the Year.
Paul is an unquestioned first-ballot Hall of Famer. That is the only thing left in his NBA career.
Chris Paul played for seven different teams in a 21-year period in the NBA [Getty Images]
NBA legend Chris Paul has announced his retirement after being released by the Toronto Raptors.
The 40-year-old, widely regarded as one of the sport's greatest point guards, was a 12-time NBA All-Star and 2006 Rookie of the Year.
One of only seven players to enjoy an NBA career spanning 21 seasons, Paul also helped the United States claim Olympic gold medals in Beijing in 2008 and then four years later in London.
"This is it! After 21 years I'm stepping away from basketball," he posted on Instagram.
"Mostly I'm filled with so much joy and gratitude! While this chapter of being an 'NBA player' is done, the game of basketball will forever be ingrained in the DNA of my life.
"I've been in the NBA for more than half of my life, spanning three decades. It's crazy even saying that."
Paul, who was nicknamed the 'Point of God', averaged 16.8 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds and two steals a game during a 1,370-game career that started at the New Orleans Hornets in 2005 and effectively ended after a second spell at the Los Angeles Clippers.
He also featured for the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors, but never played on an NBA championship-winning team.
He came closest to a gold ring in 2021, when Phoenix reached the NBA finals, only to lose to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Paul, who retires second in NBA history for both assists (12,552) and steals (2,728),
had not played since 1 December, with the Clippers trading him to Toronto earlier this month.
Feb 1, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Carter Bryant (11) dunks in front of Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) in the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images | Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
The Spurs will have a third participant in the Rising Stars this Friday. Carter Bryant will replace injured Grizzlies’ forward Cedric Coward in the event, joining Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle.
Carter will be part of Team Vince, which Vince Carter coaches. Castle and Harper are both on Team Melo, which is coached by Carmelo Anthony, so Bryant could face his teammates if both teams win their semifinal games.
Carter’s addition brings the Spurs’ participants in the event back to three, since two-way player David Jones-Garcia was originally slated to represent the G League team before having to bow out due to injury.
Bryant was likely named to the team because he was already in Los Angeles to participate in the dunk contest, but the rookie has done a lot to bring positive attention to his play lately. His season averages are not particularly impressive, but in his last 10 games, he’s averaging 7.1 points and 2.9 rebounds while shooting 40 percent from beyond the arc.
The Rising Stars game will take place on Friday, Feb. 13. The first semifinal will tip off at 8 p.m. CT and will be televised by Peacock.
Chris Paul, for years a star with the Clippers, announced his retirement after 21 years in the NBA on Friday after being waived by the Toronto Raptors. (Sue Ogrocki / Associated Press)
Chris Paul is stepping away from the NBA for good after more than two decades in the league.
The 12-time All Star who played a key role in the Clippers' "Lob City" era made the announcement Friday soon after being waived by the Toronto Raptors.
"This is it! After over 21 years I'm stepping away from basketball," Paul wrote in a lengthy statement posted to his Instagram account.
"As I write this, it's hard to really know what to feel, but for once — most people would be surprised — I don't have the answer lol! But, mostly I'm filled with so much joy and gratitude! While this chapter of being an 'NBA player' is done, the game of basketball will forever be engrained in the DNA of my life."
Paul was selected fourth overall by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2005 draft and was named the NBA's rookie of the year the following season. Playing for the Clippers from 2011 to 2017, Paul and Blake Griffin led the team to six winning seasons, its first two Pacific Division titles and three playoff series victories.
He went on to play for the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs before signing a $3.6-million deal to return to the Clippers last summer for what was largely expected to be his final season.
The reunion did not work out so well. Paul was abruptly dismissed by the Clippers in early December, traded to the Raptors on Feb. 4 and then not required to report to his new team.
Paul ranks second in NBA history with 12,552 assists and 2,728 steals. He was the first player to notch at least 20,000 points and more than 10,000 assists.
While he didn't fully reveal what his "next chapter" will be, Paul indicated that it will involve spending more time with wife Jada, son Chris and daughter Camryn.
"Playing basketball for a living has been an unbelievable blessing that also came with lots of responsibility," Paul wrote. "I embraced it all. The good and the bad. As a lifelong learner, leadership is hard and is not for the weak. Some will like you and many people won't. But the goal was always the goal, and my intentions were always sincere (Damn, I love competing!!)"
He added as part of the lengthy note: "The game always gave me a reason to SHOW up!!! And the true leaders and fighters know that that right there — showing up — is half of the battle. So now with all the gratitude that I could possibly have... it's time for me to show up for others and in other ways. ... And I now know wholeheartedly the best teammate I can be is to Jada, Chris II and Cam!!"
The Yankees recently floated the possibility of Gerrit Cole appearing in Grapefruit League games before camp breaks, and he's at least taken the first necessary step toward achieving that goal.
The veteran ace, nearly a year removed from Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for all of 2025, completed his first bullpen session of spring training down in Tampa on Friday.
Cole sported a new beard and debuted an over-the-head windup on the mound. With coaches and teammates observing nearby, his fastball velocity consistently sat in the mid-90s, reaching as high as 96 mph.
"It felt really good. It was a well-executed pen, overall," Cole said after his session. "[My arm] feels different than it's been in quite some time... I'm just doing exactly what I've been told. When I'm told to push, I push. When I'm told not to, I don't. I really haven't deviated, hardly at all, from my targets."
The Yankees' level of excitement with Cole's progress is warranted. He checked off every box in his lengthy rehab, logging a handful of offseason bullpen sessions in California without any hitches before arriving to camp in Florida.
What remains unclear, though, is Cole's return date. The Yankees are hoping to see the 35-year-old back in pinstripes by May or June, and when asked for an update on his recovery timeline, Cole said that he's on track with the data-backed target window of 14-18 months.
"We've had a lot of discussions between myself and the Yankees," Cole said. "It's always been, with a full Tommy John reconstruction surgery, the target is always between 14-18 months. That really hasn't changed."
As far off as May and June sound now for rejoining the rotation, Cole is still trending in the right direction. Earlier this week, manager Aaron Boone said that the former AL Cy Young winner could face hitters in a few weeks, and if all goes according to plan then, there's the option of game action.
The Yanks will obviously err on the side of caution with Cole, who has always been meticulous about his routine and upfront about his health. After all, the club can't afford to be reckless with a volatile pitching staff that's already banged up.
No matter when Cole makes his 2026 debut, it'll be a welcomed sight for the Yankees. He missed the first half of 2024 with elbow inflammation, finishing the year with a 3.41 ERA and 99 strikeouts in 17 starts (95.0 innings). He also produced a 0.71 ERA across two World Series games.
Cole said his long layoff from the game has "reaffirmed" some of his core values. And while his recovery process from Tommy John surgery has paled in comparison to past stints on the injured list, he's embraced a positive mindset.
"The work during this rehab process is different than what I typically would be doing when healthy. Yet, I've attacked the process the same way as I attack the regular work," Cole said. "That has produced good results, so it just gives me confidence that I go about my business the right way."
PHOENIX — Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia slowly walked over, took a deep breath Friday, wiped his eyes, and stared at his cell phone.
For the first time since he and his wife Kayla lost their newborn daughter, Sterling Sol, on Oct. 26, days after being born, he stood in front of a crowd of reporters and spoke for six minutes. He stopped and caught his breath several times, frequently touching his heart He didn’t take any questions, and instead asked for privacy as he and his wife continue to heal.
“The lessons we've learned from this is that life can change in an instant," Vesia said. “For us, 10 minutes is all it took. Sterling Sol was the most beautiful girl in the world. We got to hold her, change her diaper, read to her and love her. Our time together was far too short … I was not prepared to not bring my baby girl home, but we're carrying her with us every day.
“Kayla and I will keep those precious moments and memories to ourselves. I hope that anyone listening can empathize and respect our wishes for privacy as we continue to heal and as we navigate the ups and downs of a baseball season."
“We are beyond grateful to be a part of this organization and this family," Vesia said. “So many of you have stepped up and have been there for us in a big way over the past few months, and has meant the world to both Kayla and I."
He spoke about the healing process including the grief counseling he and his wife have begun six weeks ago, the strength and support the Dodgers organization has given them, the Toronto Blue Jays’ heartfelt gesture during the World Series, and the outpouring of love from all over the the world, including the Los Angeles Rams sending an autographed jersey to them that he plans to frame.
Vesia, who stayed with Kayla and left the team during the World Series, still watched every pitch of all seven games, and was overwhelmed with emotion by seeing that every pitcher in the Blue Jays’ bullpen was wearing his No. 57, his jersey number, on their caps in support.
“They are a first-class organization," Vesia said. “Kayla and I just want to say thank you to them. When Kayla and I were watching the World Series, we noticed that there was 51 on Louis Varland's hat. I immediately texted Gus Varland, his brother, and I asked him if I was seeing that correctly. He texted me back right away, and he said, 'the Varlands love you, dude, the whole Toronto bullpen has it too. It's bigger than baseball. We love y'all.'
“Kayla and I, we were very emotional. We were super overwhelmed ... the baseball community, the relationships that you make along the way, it showed that was much bigger than baseball. The outpouring of love and support Kayla I've had over the past few months, few months, has been unmatched.
“We're both grateful to not only Dodger nation, but the fans worldwide. My DMs are basically broken on Instagram from all the love and support that we've had, I've tried to read all the comments and everything because it's meant the world really."
While it was difficult for Vesia to leave the team, he knew that his wife and family needed him much more, and watching the World Series together began the healing process.
“For us, in so many ways, that was a light in our darkness,’’ said Vesia, who returned to his Arizona home after the World Series. “I immediately got back into the gym. I started my throwing program. Having something to look forward to has helped me. The gym has been my mental clarity.
“Being around the guys again, preparing for spring training, it's been really nice. I've gotten a lot of love so far in the clubhouse, being able to laugh and joke around. It's been really nice for me."
When Dodgers manager Dave Roberts saw Vesia on Thursday for the first time since the tragedy, he hugged him, and they talked for 30 minutes.
“There’s not a whole lot [to say],’’ Roberts said. “You’re just sort of there to help support. That’s something they’ve got to process themselves. … It’s one of those things you can’t even imagine. I can’t think of anything worse.
"But I do think that getting back to what he loves to do and play baseball, that’s something that’s therapeutic for him."
Therapy has also been a huge benefit, Vesia says, for him and his wife, strongly recommending counseling to anyone enduring tragedy.
“It hasn't been easy, but talking to someone, it has made a difference," Vesia said. “For those out there who've lost a child or are fighting through any struggle, if you can take anything from this, please seek help. Talk to somebody. It's definitely helped.
“Don't be afraid to speak up. Your mental health matters. I've learned that what happened, what has happened to us, has also happened to so many families. Realizing that has deepened our empathy and our gratitude for this community, the baseball community, is extremely strong. …
“It's been hard, but we're doing okay."
Vesia nodded, looked ahead and then slowly walked back to the Dodgers clubhouse, knowing that his baby girl will never be forgotten, praying and Kayla will one day find comfort and peace.
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 15, 2025: Jakob Christian #26 of the San Francisco Giants bats during the third inning of a spring training Spring Breakout game against the Texas Rangers at Scottsdale Stadium on March 15, 2025 in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Bernacchi/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images
It’s almost hard to believe, but we have a top 40 in the 2026 Willie McCovey Memorial Community Prospect List. We only need four more ballots sent out and counted, and then we will have succeeded in once again ranking the top 44 prospects in the San Francisco Giants organization.
The last chapter of the CPL has brought us someone with a delightful display of power: it’s outfielder Jakob Christian, who has been voted as the No. 40 prospect in the system, falling 10 spots from his debut ranking at No. 30 last year.
Christian, who was the team’s fifth-round pick in 2024 out of the University of San Diego, was essentially in his debut season last year, after only getting into nine games after being drafted. The right-handed hitter, who turned 23 right as the season was ending, flashed some dynamism in his first full year, but countered it with some red flags as well.
Let’s start with the good stuff, though, because that’s what earned him a spot on our list. Christian spent the bulk of the year with Low-A San Jose, where his line was quite solid: he hit .272/.355/.460 with 10 home runs in 70 games, finishing with an .815 OPS and a 119 wRC+. That earned him a late-season promotion to High-A Eugene, which is where he really caught fire and put his skills on display. During his month in the Northwest League, the San Diego native slashed a blistering .304/.380/.570 with four home runs in 23 games, for a .950 OPS and a 155 wRC+.
Those are some green flags! A good average (.279 across the levels), a good walk rate (9.8%), good power (.205 ISO), while getting better late in the year is something to be excited about, and he also added 15 stolen bases while getting caught stealing just twice.
But there were some concerns under the hood. Namely, there were issues with his contact rates. In Low-A, Christian posted a 28.3% strikeout rate and a 17.7% swinging strike rate, very high rates for a large-school college bat who was nearly a year older than league average. While his overall stats improved greatly in High-A, it was despite the contact rates also moving in the wrong direction: he had a 34.8% strikeout rate and a 19.8% swinging strike rate. Across the two levels, Christian ranked 51st out of 58 Giants Minor Leaguers (minimum: 200 plate appearances) in strikeout rate, and dead last in swinging strike rate. That’s a notable hole that needs significant patching if he’s to have success at higher levels.
There’s also the matter of defense. It’s fairly telling that Christian, an outfielder, spent nearly as many games in 2025 at first base (40) as he did in the grass (51). Some of that was to make space in the outfield for San Jose’s higher-touted prospects, but some of it is also a reflection of his defensive value.
I’d assume, given the swing-and-miss issues, that Christian will return to Eugene to start the upcoming season. If he can maintain his offensive performance while patching some of the holes in his swing, he could quickly become a very good prospect.
Now let’s add to the list! As a reminder, voting takes place in the comment section, using the “rec” feature.
Note: Clicking on the above names will link to the CPL where they were voted onto the list.
No. 41 prospect nominees
SabinCeballos — 23.5-year old 3B — .670 OPS/102 wRC+ in AA (420 PA)
ReggieCrawford — 25.2-year old LHP — did not pitch in 2025; 1.04 ERA/4.07 FIP in AAA in 2024 (8.2 IP); 4.66 ERA/4.93 FIP in AA in 2024 (9.2 IP)
JuanSánchez — 25.2-year old LHP — did not pitch in 2025; 3.93 ERA/5.17 FIP in AAA in 2024 (34.1 IP)
CharlieSzykowny — 25.7-year old 3B/1B — .816 OPS/122 wRC+ in High-A (549 PA)
JancelVillarroel — 21.0-year old C — .699 OPS/91 wRC+ in High-A (61 PA); .746 OPS/123 wRC+ in Low-A (372 PA)
Note: Each player’s first name links to their Baseball-Reference page, and their last name links to their Fangraphs page.All stats are from the 2025 season.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 26: Nathaniel Lowe #37 of the Boston Red Sox reacts after hitting a double during the second inning of a game against the Detroit Tigers on September 26, 2025 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
If someone told you right now that over the first four full years of Sal Stewart’s career he would hit .274/.359/.432 and average 20 HR a season, would you take it?
You’d probably take it!
The first four years of Nathaniel Lowe’s career saw him do exactly that, as from 2021 through 2024 he was the regular 1B on a Texas Rangers club that excelled all the way to the 2023 World Series title. The 2025 season, however, was another story altogether, as he hit just .228/.307/.381 split between the Washington Nationals and Boston Red Sox as he struggled to mesh with his new clubs.
Apparently, his 2025 work soured opinion on him enough that he was willing to accept a minor league deal with an invite to spring training, and on Friday that’s precisely what the Cincinnati Reds provided. According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, Lowe will head to Goodyear and put in work in an attempt to make the Reds out of spring camp.
The Reds are bringing in Nathaniel Lowe on a non-roster deal, sources tell me and @m_sheldon.
Now 30, Lowe is exclusively a 1B/DH guy at this point of his career, though he did dabble in work at 3B earlier on. What he has going for him particularly, though, is that he’s a left-handed hitter who consistently has hit RHP with aplomb, even to the tune of .252/.333/.429 in his otherwise down 2025 season. Considering each of Sal Stewart, Spencer Steer, and Eugenio Suarez bat from the right side of the plate in the 1B/DH conversation, there’s some consideration that throwing Lowe into that mix would add some balance to the depth.
Obviously, it’s a low-cost depth signing that brings in a pretty proven quantity with zero risk if he’s completely lost it. But if he hits in camp the way he has in the past, it gives the Reds some serious decisions to make. For instance, each of JJ Bleday and Will Benson – both left-handed swingers – have minor league options remaining, and if Lowe is mashing (and if Steer looks comfy in LF), carrying Lowe as the lefty bench bat and 1B/DH rotational partner could a) make the most sense for the big league roster and b) maximize the depth on the farm, too.
The Reds previously sprang to sign former Colorado Rockies 1B Michael Toglia to a similar deal, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand is also presumably fighting for a big league roster spot at the same time. Lowe has a much, much more extensive track record than either of those guys, though, and I’d wager that he immediately jumps them in the hierarchy for spots on the Opening Day roster if he shows up in camp and performs the way he’s shown on the back of his baseball card.
The Detroit Pistons have raced out to a 40-13 record, so it is no surprise to see JB Bickerstaff at the top of NBA Coach of the Year odds boards. More NBA odds for COY show the Suns' Jordan Ott (+400) and the Celtics' Joe Mazzulla (+650) among the favorites.
NBA Coach of the Year odds
Here is a look at updated NBA Coach of the Year odds. JB Bickerstaff is the betting favorite to win the award at -140.
Most sportsbooks will display odds in the American format as listed above. We'll use 2022-23's Coach of the Year race as an example:
As the season progressed, with Mike Brown having been a huge favorite, his odds had a minus (-) sign ahead of the number:
Mike Brown -500
This means that a bettor needs to wager $500 to win $100. Other candidates with worse odds would have a plus (+) sign ahead of the number. Early in the season, before any clear favorite is established, betting options will be listed as such:
Nick Nurse +650
Here, a bettor stands to profit $650 for every $100 wagered.
If American odds aren't your thing, simply use our odds converter to switch the odds to decimal or fractional format. Most online sportsbooks also give you the option to change the odds format that you see.
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NBA Coach of the Year trends
Mike Brown's 2023 victory was the first time in 10 years (excluding COVID-altered schedules — 2019-20, 2020-21) that the Coach of the Year's team hadn't won 55+ games.
Four coaches (Mike Budenholzer, Gregg Popovich, Tom Thibodeau, Mike Brown) have won COY multiple times since 2009.
No rookie head coach has won Coach of the Year since Doc Rivers (2000).
Dating back to the award's inception in 1963, no coach has ever won COY in back-to-back seasons.
NBA Coach of the Year history
Year
NBA Coach of the Year Winner
Team
2024-25
Kenny Atkinson
Cleveland Cavaliers
2023-24
Mark Daigneault
Oklahoma City Thunder
2022-23
Mike Brown
Sacramento Kings
2021-22
Monty Williams
Phoenix Suns
2020-21
Tom Thibodeau
New York Knicks
2019-20
Nick Nurse
Toronto Raptors
2018-19
Mike Budenholzer
Milwaukee Bucks
2017-18
Dwane Casey
Toronto Raptors
2016-17
Mike D'Antoni
Houston Rockets
2015-16
Steve Kerr
Golden State Warriors
2014-15
Mike Budenholzer
Atlanta Hawks
2013-14
Gregg Popovich
San Antonio Spurs
2012-13
George Karl
Denver Nuggets
2011-12
Gregg Popovich
San Antonio Spurs
2010-11
Tom Thibodeau
Chicago Bulls
2009-10
Scott Brooks
Oklahoma City Thunder
2008-09
Mike Brown
Cleveland Cavaliers
2007-08
Byron Scott
New Orleans Hornets
2006-07
Sam Mitchell
Toronto Raptors
2005-06
Avery Johnson
Dallas Mavericks
2004-05
Mike D'Antoni
Phoenix Suns
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Because even with their status as true NBA title contenders being in doubt, a bigger-picture view of their season within the context of Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves playing a combined 10 games together offered optimism.
“We’re top-five in the West and we’ve had those guys together for 10 games,” Coach JJ Redick said. “AR’s missed time, an extended stretch. Luka missed some time. Bron missed the start of the year. You’d take that.
Luka Doncic, Lebron James and Austin Reeves have only played a combined 10 games together this season. Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
“Doesn’t mean the day-to-day, [the] internal pressure you put on yourself…doesn’t mean that’s going to go away. But you’ve got to feel good about the last 14 games outside of the San Antonio game [Tuesday] night.”
The Lakers started last season 33-21, with James (four), Reaves (five) and the combination of Doncic (four)/Anthony Davis (five) missing a combined 18 games through the Lakers’ first 54 games of the season.
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And through this season’s first 54 games, the Lakers are 33-21 despite a significant dip in player availability from their stars, with their best players tripling their combined amount of missed games (56) by this point of the season compared to last year.
Reaves has been sidelined for nearly half (26 games) of the season. James has missed 18 games after being on the shelf for the first 14 games because of sciatica. Doncic sat out of the four games entering the break because of a strained left hamstring, and has been sidelined for 12 games.
And even with the team having a 7-3 record in games Doncic, James and Reaves have played, there’s still context missing within the games they have been able to get on the floor together.
The Lakers are 33-21 despite a significant dip in player availability from their stars. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Those five first games the team’s star trio played together after James made his season debut in the Nov. 18 home win over the Utah Jazz came with James clearly still working to find his rhythm after the long layoff. In Game No. 8 on Christmas Day, Reaves left midway through the loss to the Houston Rockets because of a strained left calf that would later sideline him for 19 consecutive games. And Games Nos. 9-10, wins over the Brooklyn Nets (Feb. 3) and Philadelphia 76ers (Feb. 5), respectively, came with Reaves playing as a reserve on a minutes restriction and Doncic leaving midway through the game against the 76ers because of the hamstring injury.
And this is before even factoring in key players such as Marcus Smart (10), Rui Hachimura (10) and Deandre Ayton (eight) also missing significant time.
“We’re still trying to be healthy, trying to get healthy,” Hachimura said. “I know AR just came back and he’s trying to ramp it up. We’ve been building our chemistry pretty good this whole season. [That] kind of stuff is going to be important. I’ve been in the playoffs a couple times, and team chemistry is really going to be important.”
The lack of player availability doesn’t mask clear roster deficiencies.
The Lakers are optimistic they’re able to come out of the break with their three best players healthy. Getty Images
The defense, especially on the perimeter, is still troublesome although they’ve been trending in the right direction on that end of the floor with the help of their zone defense performing well.
The quality of their wins – and margins of defeat in their losses – suggests they aren’t in the true upper echelon of the Western Conference standings, let alone the entire NBA.
But the Lakers are optimistic of what they can look like if they’re able to come out of the break with something that’s been rare this season: their three best players healthy, and playing their basketball, and surrounded by a supporting cast that’s stepped up to keep the team afloat.
“Most of the games, we haven’t even had our full squad,” Jaxson Hayes said. “We’ve had a lot of injuries throughout the year. I’m feeling good going into the second half of the season. Hopefully, we can’t get healthy and come out strong.”
All young players in the NBA have room for improvement. So, who will make the proverbial "leap" in the 2025 - 2026 season? NBA Most Improved Player odds have the Blazers' Deni Avdija and the Hawks' Jalen Johnson as the betting favorites.
Learn more about this feature, and all of bet365's offerings, with our comprehensive bet365 review.
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Understanding NBA Most Improved Player odds
Most sportsbooks will display odds in the American format as listed above. We'll use 2022-23's MIP race as an example:
As the season progressed, with Lauri Markkanen having been a big favorite, his odds had a minus (-) sign ahead of the number:
Lauri Markkanen -200
This means that a bettor needs to wager $200 to win $100. Other candidates with worse odds would have a plus (+) sign ahead of the number. Early in the season, before any clear favorite is established, betting options will be listed as such:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander +650
Here, a bettor stands to profit $650 for every $100 wagered.
If American odds aren't your thing, simply use our odds converter to switch the odds to decimal or fractional format. Most online sportsbooks also give you the option to change the odds format that you see.
Here are some trends you'll want to consider when betting on NBA Most Improved Player futures:
Forwards have won 13 of the past 20 MIP awards.
No true center has won since Jermaine O'Neal in 2002.
MIP has tended to favor players making "the leap" to stardom recently. Nine of the past 10 winners have averaged 20.0 ppg or more.
In a very weird coincidence, an Orlando Magic player has won MIP four times since 1999, and each time, an Indiana Pacer has won the award the following year.
How is NBA Most Improved Player decided?
The NBA Most Improved Player Award is bestowed upon the player who has demonstrated a significant improvement in performance from the previous season. This improvement is evaluated based on the following key criteria:
Statistical improvement
Consideration is given to notable increases in key statistical categories, including traditional box score stats, shooting efficiency, and the various advanced metrics.
Role expansion or redefinition
Consideration will be given to players who have taken on new roles, and significantly expanded their responsibilities, thereby positively impacting their team.
Consistency and sustainability
The improvement should be consistent and sustained throughout the season, rather than a short-term surge in performance. Candidates should demonstrate their enhanced production over a substantial portion of the regular season.
Impact on team success
The player's improvement should directly contribute to the overall success and performance of their team. Factors such as wins, team rankings, and positive influence on team chemistry can be taken into account.
Hello Devils friends and family, I hope you’re all enjoying your reprieve from *gestures at Newark*. It’s no secret that this current version of the Devils has flamed out spectacularly. If it is a secret… umm, surprise! They have 25 games left, and would need to go 20-4-1 to get to 99 points and be in a comfortable playoff spot. Your mileage may vary on what you see as the problem, and the blame game is in full force, from the owners to the 4th line to the medical team and most recently, Jack seems to be the target du jour. And quite frankly it’s all correct – there is blame to go around to everyone in that pile. Some pretty serious changes need to be made top to bottom.
The first step starts at the top. Tom Fitzgerald leads this organization, and leads my list of changes that need to be made and this seems to be a widely shared opinion. However, if Tom is replaced, it cannot be an interim GM from inside the organization. We need fresh eyes to dispassionately examine the roster, scouting, drafting, and operations. Jared wrote a longer blog about this and I agree: Our two AGMs are not people I would have faith in making the necessary changes for the Devils. Dan MacKinnon oversees a bad Utica team and ineffective player development, while Kate Madigan is behind the scenes and more of an operational role and has a large say in contracts. If Tom goes, both of them should as well so there is no connection between regimes. The third internal option scares me more than these two, advisor Chuck Fletcher. He is only an advisor because no one would touch him for a GM role – and guess what? He and Fitz are buddies and that’s why he is here and to advise on contracts, scouting, and operations.
This entire front office tenure can be summed up in the phrase “too little, too late.” Goalie changes, coaching changes, roster additions – all too little too late. The most recent acquisition, Nick Bjugstad, as Chris wrote was three months too late. The only big swing this group took was for Timo Meier, a deadline move that was about as obvious as can be, meanwhile we have gone 3 consecutive years with glaring season-long holes that went unaddressed. Colorado fixed their goalie issues a month into the 24-25 season, Carolina managed to swing a trade for Rantanen and later flip him when they realized he wasn’t going to sign long term. Don’t get me started on Quinn. Meanwhile Fitz builds his roster in the offseason and dabbles at the deadline, and even then he only comes in second, or “owes it to the team” to bring in Andrew Hammond.
One place I think we should probably retain is our amateur scouting mechanism. For as poor as the 1st round drafting has been, the team’s later rounds picking has been fine to good and the verdict is still out on some of the last two years. Daniil Orlov, Roszival, Moe, Cheslock, Yegorov, and Malek all show potential from our most recent crop and I encourage you to check in on James’ prospect updates.
We Know Tim, Get to the Point
Sorry, I get a little carried away talking about Fitz. Anyway, I wanted to look through a variety of GM/Front Office options, and truly hope the ownership group takes a broad sweeping look at different ways to approach the role(s). Whether that is finding a more “traditional” experienced Manager, whether they are going to split the President of Hockey Operations and GM roles, and whether they are going to look outside the box. So I decided to scour the marketplace for options that are very much traditional to options that are very much not – and people in between. We need to find the next Bill Zito, Breisbois, or Jim Nil – all three of which came from different worlds.
Luckily for me, I got some help from people that know more than me. As you probably are aware, Barry Trotz is stepping down as the Predators GM, and Elliott Friedman rattled off a variety of potential options on 32 Thoughts. Frank Seravelli mentioned on his show that there may be expectations that the Devils will be making a GM change this summer while also discussing the Preds job, implying the Devils job may be more desirable. So, let’s take a look at those options for the big chair.
Traditional “Hockey Guys” With GM Experience
Rob Blake: Blake is most notably known for stepping into he Kings GM where he pivoted the team into a significant roster rebuild and away form an aging core, bringing in Fiala, drafting Byfield and Clarke, and taking a swing on Dubois. I do like that he recognized that didn’t work and pivoted to a solution… how refreshing to have a GM realize his mistake and move off it getting value in return. His downfall was the Edmonton Oilers.
Brendan Shanahan: Hired to transform a struggling franchise, Shanahan initiated a comprehensive rebuild that resulted in drafting cornerstone players Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander. He oversaw consistent regular-season success, including nine straight playoff appearances, however I think we are all aware of their failure to get past their playoff ghosts. He would probably be more of a POHO role, similar to what he held in Toronto, so if the Devils keep the role the same (POHO/GM) or split them into two separate roles – he could be a consideration.
Marc Bergevin: He is best known for his role as GM of the Montreal Canadiens (2012–2021), leading them to the 2021 Stanley Cup Final during the lockout year. Two of his key acquisitions were Nick Suzuki and Shea Weber (for PK). As GM of the Canadiens, he oversaw six playoff appearances and previously won a Stanley Cup as Director of Player Personnel with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010.
Peter Chiarelli: No.
Traditional “Hockey Guys” That Are AGMs
Jamie Langenbrunner: You many not know that he is the AGM of the Bruins where he manages player personnel decisions, evaluates pro and amateur talent, and oversees prospect progression. He is well thought of for his work in scouting, identifying player improvements, and assisting with draft preparations and is on the “next” list according to people that know things. Worth an interview.
Jason Spezza: Currently serves as an AGM under Kyle Dubas in Pittsburgh. Moved with Dubas from Toronto to continue his work in hockey operations, scouting, and player development, particularly in Wilkes Barre, where he took over the role to manage the organization’s top prospects and minor league operations. He also served under Dubas as a special assistant with the Leafs from 22-23, so since his entry into management he has had a pretty impressive apprenticeship with one of the league’s best young GMs. It’s no coincidence that Toronto is a on dumpster fire watch after both he and Dubas left. Dubas (and by extension Spezza) gets a lot of flak for no real reason, he was really hurt by the Covid-induced flat cap more than anything. Also worth an interview.
“Hockey Guys” you May Not Know (Mostly AGMs)
Ryan Bowness: Ryan Bowness is a prominent NHL executive currently serving as the AGM and Director of Player Personnel of the Islanders. He has moved up the ranks on the player personnel and pro scouting side of the house through Atlanta/Winnipeg, Ottawa and Pittsburgh. I have long felt our pro scouting is severely lacking, and instead of unearthing undervalued assets, we have given known commodities term on the back half of their deals in UFA.
Ryan Johnson: Ryan Johnson is currently the AGM of the Canucks and GM of Abbotsford. You may balk at the Vancouver part of that, but he has overseen a very successful Abbotsford team that won the Calder Cup in 2025. He also comes from the player development side of the house which also needs some work (see comment under Bowness). He is credited with the AHL -> NHL transition of guys like Silovs and Hoglander, while also working on the cap and pro scouting.
Brad Pascal: Brad Pascal is currently the Assistant General Manager and Vice President of Hockey Operations for the Calgary Flames, a role he has held since 2014. He also serves as the General Manager of the Flames’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers. He also serves as co-general manager for international events for Hockey Canada such as the Spengler Cup, working alongside Joe Thornton. One thing the Devils lack is any high end Candians which (in my opinion) may be a contributing factor to the currents Tate of the team and he has been very successful in his tenure with Hockey Canada: 3x Olympic Gold, 5 consecutive World Junior Golds, 2004 World Cup and IIHF gold in 03 and 04. My only issue with all of that? it’s been a while, but he would be worth a conversation.
“Non-Traditional” AGMs From Winning Cultures
Some would point to a roadmap for finding the next great GM: an impressive apprenticeship for well run, winning organizations. If you are of the mind that avoiding the old boys club of recycled options is the best path, the below group of guys is for you.
Sunny Mehta is one of the primary architects of the current Florida regime, comes from an analytics background and was a professional poker player. He is largely considered the godfather of hockey analytics, getting his original start int he Devils organization. I like his skill set and he was a major part in finding hidden gems in a variety of distressed assets in Reinhardt, Forsling, and Verhaege. He also had a front row seat for the cultural impact of the Tkachuk trade and recognized his skill set vs Huberdeau’s, and Zito has said multiple times Mehta was instrumental in that trade. Also, a Jersey boy.
Kevin McDonald is the AGM in Colorado, and would certainly deserve a look considering their current success. He also spent 20 years with Blues where he has a cup ring from 2019 and as an AGM with Colorado, he works closely with General Manager Chris MacFarland on hockey-related matters. His main focus remains overseeing the Colorado Eagles, the Avalanche’s American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate and comes from a pro scouting and professional development background.
Capitals AGM Ross Mahoney interviewed in 2020 when they picked Fitz. Washington found a way to go from being a capped out group of aging veterans with no future to finding several gems in the draft, bought low on Canada’s starting goalie Logan Thompson and managed to set the Caps on a path to a retooled transition. As assistant general manager, Mahoney is responsible for the NHL Entry Draft, the club’s developmental programs, evaluations of opposing teams’ prospects, and oversees the organization’s amateur scouting staff. In Game 5 of the 2018 Stanley Cup Final, 12 players who were drafted during Mahoney’s tenure were in the lineup. (source)
Golden Knights AGM Andrew Lugerner is the guy who has managed their salary cap. Considering the magic tricks they have pulled off (see what I did there) with their cap and the downright ruthless nature of the Vegas front office, he would certainly be worth an interview.
Agents
One would only have to look at the success of Bill Zito in Florida and Kent Hughes in Montreal to consider agents as options and it’s not crazy to suggest that someone moving from one side of the negotiation table to the other would be in the consideration set. Agents have a unique perspective on the nuances behind player choices and motivations, particularly when it comes to contracts. They also scout and recruit players from a young age, and likely have very good eyes for the type of attitude that will translate to success in hockey. And maybe, just maybe, an agent can come in and understand NMC/NTC clauses a little better and how to leave yourself some outs if a contract doesn’t work out.
Agents are very difficult to find information on aside from client lists, and leaving and agency is complicated. However, Can one of them be lured to the other side of the table? Here are some of the biggest (and fun names) in that group with the amount of money they manage and some of their prominent clients (from puckpedia):
Pat Brisson (CAA) – $1.4BN in contracts. MacKinnon, Crosby, Larkin, Jack, Luke, Quinn, Mercer
Dan Millstein (Gold Star) – $643MM in contracts. THE Russian Agent basically:. Kucherov, Vasilevskiy, Sorokin, Marchenko
Claude Lemieux (4Sports) – Yes, I snuck Pepe in here. $353MM in contracts. Timo, Seider, Eriksson Ek, Rasmus Anderson, Olofsson
Darren Ferris (Quartexx) – $333MM in contracts. Marner, Bennet, Kadri, Hall, Rodrigues, Byram
My Dream Team
So, after all that, My dream team for the top two chairs are…. Shanahan as POHO and Mehta as GM. I think bringing in someone like Shanny as a POHO to have a broader view of everything as well as a newly minted GM is the ideal scenario. One of the failures in the Fitz regime is having noone overseeing him as a new GM. This set-up allows Mehta to focus on building the team and overall structure, while Shanny can focus on the larger organizational issues. I know Sunny Mehta isn’t a unique thought, but there is a reason why several people think he should be next, his background and experience checks so many boxes for me.
But it doesn’t stop there. As I mentioned we need to clean house, so that would leave two AGM spots open and if we can’t lure someone from one of the above mentioned AGM chairs to make the lateral move, I think it would be wise to go try and lure the Tampa Bay Director of Player Development, JP Cole out of Tampa. The work he has done finding and developing players has been nothing short of astonishing, considering the injury woes Tampa has had the past few year, and the plug and play guys that have stepped into roles and thrived there.
As an AGM, I would also be interested in Judd Brackett, who is the head of Amateur Scouting for the Wild. Prior to the wild he spent 12 years in Vancouver, and his list of draftees is impressive: Rossi, Buium, Ohgren (basically the Quinn trade), and while in Vancouver he was front and center drafting Quinn, Boeser and Petterson. His main focus is prioritizing hockey IQ and skating, which have become two of the most valuable commodities in the current NHL.
Your Thoughts
Who do you like, anyone on this list strike you or anyone I didn’t mention that would be of interest? What’s your level of confidence a change at the top happens?
There is no right or wrong solution here, but this front office needs new eyes on it, and those eyes need to come from the outside since the organizational rot comes from the top.
(Original Caption) New York Yankees 3rd baseman Graig Nettles fighting with Kansas City Royals George Brett after Brett slid into 3rd on a triple in the 1st inning which scored a run. Both benches cleared and joined in the fight at 3rd. Umpire Marty Springfield makes the call as Yankees pitcher Ron Guidry rushes in.
Sports give us a socially acceptable outlet for our pettiness. They let us boo, roll our eyes, and carry grudges that would be wildly inappropriate anywhere else in life. You’re allowed to hate teams, from division rivals to big-market behemoths.
Which team do you hate the most? There are several possibilities.
The Yankees. Do you root for Darth Vader in Star Wars? Do you cheer when the blackjack dealer wins at the casino? You might be a Yankees fan. They’re called the “Evil Empire” for a reason.
The Dodgers. They’re the new Yankees. They spend like it’s going out of style, and their fans leave games in the seventh inning to beat traffic.
The Cardinals. Our cross-town rivals. They’re still chirping about Denkinger’s call in 1985 and how they’re the self-anointed “Best Fans in Baseball.”
The White Sox. Division rivals. The Royals and White Sox have had dust-ups before, including the time two Chicago fans jumped on the field and assaulted a Royals coach.
The Pirates. I dunno, I just don’t like the way they look at us.
