Running back Breece Hall is in New Jersey for the Jets' minicamp this week, but he took some time out of preparing for the 2026 season by taking a trip to San Antonio for Game 5 of the NBA Finals last weekend.
Hall was in the building to watch the Knicks end a 53-year title drought with a 94-90 win that sealed a 4-1 series win over the Spurs. The Jets have an even longer title drought to go along with their current 15-season streak of missing the playoffs, which led Hall to express some envy about what the Knicks were able to experience this season.
“I congratulated them and I was just like, I can’t wait to have that feeling,” Hall said, via Dennis Waszak of the Associated Press. “So, definitely positive jealousy because it’s like, damn, I want my team to be able to do that as well. It was definitely very cool to see.”
The Knicks will be celebrated at a parade in Lower Manhattan on Thursday and Hall will have plenty of company among Jets players and fans fantasizing about finding themselves in the same place at some point in the future.
The scoreboard ahead of an NBA game between the Indiana Pacers and the Los Angeles Lakers, at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California, 16th December 1990. Aside from the teams and adverts, the screen reads 'You Game Announcer Lawrence Tanter'; the Lakers won the game 112-115. (Photo by Bongarts/Getty Images) | Getty Images
One of the staples of the Lakers over the last four decades has been legendary PA announcer Lawrence Tanter. However, a new voice will echo through Crypto.com Arena moving forward.
On Tuesday, the Lakers announced that Tanter would be moving to the role of Special Advisor for Game Presentation, stepping down from his PA announcer position.
The team’s statement included a quote from Jeanie Buss:
“Lawrence Tanter has been an integral part of the Lakers gameday experience for more than four decades, setting the tone for countless memorable moments with his professionalism, energy and signature booming voice. Since the 1980s, LT has narrated every chapter of Lakers basketball, connecting generations of fans, players, coaches and staff while becoming a trusted and unforgettable part of the Lakers experience. I am incredibly grateful for everything he has given to this franchise.”
Tanter did not serve as the team’s PA announcer during the playoffs. According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, that came after he suffered a stroke in March.
Tanter suffered a stroke in March, sources told ESPN, causing him to miss the Lakers’ last six home games of the regular season, plus the playoffs. Tanter continues to rehab from the health setback, sources said. Jason Barquero, the P.A. announcer for the Lakers’ G League affiliate, finished the season in Tanter’s absence.
Tanter began his time as the PA announcer in 1982 and has been the constant, booming voice in The Forum and Staples Center throughout the years. Even in 2020, Tanter recorded introductions to play in the playoffs to provide a needed sense of normalcy for fans.
The team has not announced a successor.
Speaking on behalf of all Lakers fans, here’s to the best for Tanter in life after the Lakers. Home games won’t be the same without him around.
WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 15: Royals shortstop Bobby Witt, Jr. (7) waits for a pitch while fielding in front of the royal blue digital scoreboard behind him during the Kansas City Royals versus Washington Nationals Major League Baseball (MLB) game on June 15, 2026 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Royals are at the point in the season where it’s only the sickos who are watching on random Tuesday weeknights, especially when there’s also a World Cup game in Kansas City the same evening. If any bandwagon fans are left, I question your judgement—unless you’re really, really bored.
In any case, we welcome you, no matter your fandom history. It’s another interleague game against the Washington Nationals. Thankfully, the Royals have been able to score some runs over the last week or so. Even if they lose, there are at least some moments of baseball joy.
Tonight, it’s Michael Wacha on the mound against the Nationals, who are starting old friend Foster Griffin. I’m so happy Griffin is back in the big leagues—I remember him finally getting to the big leagues in 2020 only for him to get hurt in his very first appearance.
The Nationals’ attempt to get to 3 games above .500 went much better last night than it did in their series finale in San Francisco, as propelled by a 5-run 5th inning, the Nats beat the Royals 7-3 to improve to 38-35, their best record this far into a season since 2019. Andrew Alvarez and Brad Lord combined for a strong 7 innings of 3-run ball, and a Dylan Crews 3-run shot down the left field line in the 5th inning padded the Nats lead to 4 runs, although they ultimately would not need it.
In what has become a rare occurrence this season, the Nats lineup remains largely the same tonight, with the top 6 hitters remaining the same, and Drew Millas taking the catching duties being the one difference. The outfield defense does rotate around, as Crews goes from right field to left, Wood from DH to left field, and Lile from left field to DH. Getting the ball for the Nats will be Foster Griffin, who faces off against the ballclub that selected him in the first round of the MLB Draft back in 2014.
The Royals will also run out largely the same lineup, with the only difference being Carter Jensen and Isaac Collins hitting the bench against a lefty starter on the bump, with Tyler Tolbert and Kameron Misner taking their spots in the lineup. On the mound for the Royals is the 34-year-old Michael Wacha, who has faced the Nationals 9 times in his career, including coming an out away from a no-hitter against them way back in 2013.
This Nats squad has toppled all sorts of milestones already, such as the best start to a season in the decade, and now the question is, how far can they take it? A good start would be to secure a series victory tonight, which would be their 4th consecutive series win and make them winners of 8 of their last 11 ballgames. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!
NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks' 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night to capture their first NBA title in 53 years averaged 24.5 million viewers on ABC and ESPN, making it the most watched Game 5 since 1998.
The audience peaked at 33 million, as Brunson was putting the wraps on a 45-point performance as the Knicks rallied from a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter.
The finals averaged 20.6 million according to Nielsen, the highest since ABC and ESPN started carrying it in 2003. It is only the third time since 1999, the finals have averaged at least 20 million.
Golden State's victory over Cleveland in five games in 2017 averaged 20.47 million while the 2016 finals, where the Cavaliers defeated the Warriors in seven games, averaged 20.2 million.
Last year's finals between Oklahoma City and Indiana averaged 10.31 million across seven games.
The 1998 series between Chicago and Utah, where Michael Jordan won his sixth and final NBA title, averaged 29.04 million in six games.
Before Tuesday's game between the Mets and Cincinnati Reds, manager Carlos Mendoza was asked what he wants to see from Kodai Senga, who is starting for New York for the first time since April 26, and also gave updates on some injured players who are working their way back.
Mendoza's message to Senga
With Senga making his first start since returning from the injured list due to lumbar spine inflammation that forced him out for nearly two months, Mendoza had a message for the right-hander who had been struggling mightily before landing on the IL.
"Go out there, be himself, compete, give us a chance to win a baseball game," the skipper said. "Attack hitters, use all of his pitches and be the best version of yourself."
It sounds simple, but Senga had not been doing any of those things in his five starts to begin the year, particularly in his last three starts, where he allowed 16 earned runs in 8.1 IP, which ballooned his ERA to 9.00.
After a fantastic rookie season in 2023, few things have gone right for the Japanese-born pitcher. He made one start in 2024, had a phenomenal first half in 2025 before an injury kept him out for a month and he ended the season with a rough second half, and has looked nothing like the budding star he was in his first year so far this season.
But with the Mets' starting rotation in flux because of injuries, Senga, who is fully healthy once again, will get another chance to prove he can still be a valuable asset to the team.
Pitching plan in Philadelphia
Speaking of the starting rotation, Mendoza gave some insight on how New York plans to deploy their starters for the series against the Philadelphia Phillies beginning on Thursday.
After Nolan McLean pitches in the series finale against the Reds on Wednesday, Sean Manaea will get the ball in the opener against Philly on Thursday, followed by Freddy Peralta on Saturday after a rare mid-series off day for the Mets. Sunday's starter is still yet to be announced, although David Peterson is in play, per Mendoza.
"I’m not sure, we’ll see... We haven’t gotten that far yet," Mendoza said.
One pitcher likely not in the picture to get the start is Tobias Myers who was the opener on Monday and surrendered seven earned runs while recording just four outs. The outing was Myers' first since getting recalled from Triple-A where he was sent down on May 30 for bullpen manipulation (he had one option remaining).
So how will the Mets go forward with Myers who now has a 5.71 ERA?
"He’s going to continue to get opportunities, probably out of the bullpen," Mendoza said. "Kinda like the same way we were using him before he was sent down. [He's] a guy that can go multiple innings, a guy that can do a lot of different things for us. He’s stretched out. He’s gonna continue to be a pretty important part of our bullpen."
Rapid fire injury updates
Francisco Lindor: Played three innings of a simulated game on Monday and "came out good after". He’s scheduled to play another simulated game on Wednesday at Citi Field, this time maybe five innings, per Mendoza.
"He’s doing a lot," Mendoza said. "The three innings is nonstop, pretty much where he’s taking ground balls, hitting, taking swings, running and all that. Pretty intense."
Clay Holmes: "He’s off the boot. He’s playing catch, light catch. But still in the early stages," Mendoza said.
Jorge Polanco: "He had some live at-bats yesterday with Lindor," Mendoza said. "I think he’s scheduled to have live at-bats again tomorrow and we’ll see what we got after that."
All the on-court action is in the rearview, meaning the drama, trades, draft and free agent mayhem is coming into focus. For a league that thrives on those conversations, this is everything that fans and some teams have been waiting for.
In the meantime, the party is still raging on in New York after the Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought and that puts the NBA in an interesting spot. For the first time in a long time, the Knicks are a team that everyone wants to replicate.
There's also a chance the champions, led by Jalen Brunson, proved something else with this playoff run. Perhaps it isn't about checking off boxes in one particular order. The Knicks showed that a champion can come in all shapes and sizes as long as the collection of talent works together.
That inspiring, movie-like run could have a dramatic impact this offseason in a league that often chases stars.
So when does it begin? Here's what to know about NBA free agency in 2026.
When does NBA free agency start?
NBA free agency starts on Tuesday, June 30 at 6 p.m. ET.
It's a change the league made during the 2019 offseason that moved the start time up from 12:01 a.m. ET on July 1. Instead of a flurry of deals being revealed overnight, the change in time turned free agency into another marquee primetime event for fans.
Even though the negotiating period starts on June 30, deals cannot be signed and made official until 12:01 p.m. ET on Monday, July 6.
Best available NBA free agents
The best available free agents before free agency likely won't be the same after free agency. That is because player options will be accepted or declined prior to the opening bell on June 30.
Here's a look at the five best free agents ahead of those deadlines:
It's telling that the 41-year-old James headlines the free-agent class in 2026, but it's also a reality. NBA contracts, rule changes and more have devalued free agency in a way that has kept the biggest stars off the market. Star players are now typically traded rather than signed.
In other words, free agency is more about building depth and the roster as a whole. The transformative moves will be made in the trade market or the draft.
Philadelphia 76ers: Playmakers; bench depth; center
Phoenix Suns: Wing depth; Shooting
Portland Trail Blazers: Shooting
Sacramento Kings: A star, regardless of position
San Antonio Spurs: Backup big, outside shooting, frontcourt bench depth
Toronto Raptors: Shooting
Utah Jazz: Veterans to complement AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson
Washington Wizards: Veterans to complement AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson
What is a restricted free agent?
A restricted free agent cannot sign with another team in free agency without giving their current team the opportunity to match.
It all begins when a team extends a qualifying offer to an eligible player, therefore making them a restricted free agent. The player can choose to accept the qualifying offer, negotiate a new deal with their existing team or sign an offer sheet with a different franchise. If they elect to sign an offer sheet, the current team is given a two-day window to match the contract.
Should the team decide to match the contract, the player will remain with their team from the 2025-26 season under the same terms outlined in the offer sheet.
If the team declines to match, they will join the offer-sheeting team, just like in traditional free agency.
There is no additional compensation if a team declines to match the offer.
What is an unrestricted free agent?
An unrestricted free agent can sign a contract with any team in free agency without going through the offer sheet process.
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 11: A.J. Minter #33 of the New York Mets pitches during the sixth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Citi Field on June 11, 2026 in New York City. The Mets won 5-4. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Mets’ rotation continues to change like the tide. The Mets are the only team in baseball that doesn’t have at least three pitchers who have made at least 10 starts. Of course, part of this is because of the Mets’ frequent use of the opener this season, but it is a striking statistic nonetheless. David Peterson remains in the dog house, but Sean Manaea seems to pitched himself out of it. Meanwhile, Jonah Tong has been sent back to the minors and Christian Scott has hit the injured list. Having ascended up the bullpen pecking order, Austin Warren had a rare misstep, but Luke Weaver and Devin Williams have had a strong month of June. Cionel Pérez has pitched well enough to stick around, but the likes of Jonathan Pintaro, Daniel Duarte, and Joey Gerber continue to ping-pong between Triple-A and the big leagues.
The usual disclaimer: this meter does not reflect last night’s game and only covers the period from June 1-June 14.
Player
Last week
This week
Huascar Brazobán, RHP
Daniel Duarte, RHP
Joey Gerber, RHP
—
Sean Manaea, LHP
Nolan McLean, RHP
A.J. Minter, LHP
Freddy Peralta, RHP
Cionel Pérez, LHP
David Peterson, RHP
Jonathan Pintaro, RHP
Brooks Raley, LHP
Christian Scott, RHP
Jonah Tong, RHP
Austin Warren, RHP
Luke Weaver, RHP
Devin Williams, RHP
The good news for David Peterson is that he will continue to get significant innings—either starting games or pitching behind an opener—because the Mets don’t have any other options now that Christian Scott is on the injured list. It’s a shame for Scott, who had been the Mets’ most consistent pitcher of late. The same definitely can’t be said for Peterson, who was hammered by the Cardinals to the tune of six runs on seven hits over 3 2/3 innings. Austin Warren served as the opener in that game and didn’t fare much better, coughing up two runs in the first inning, taking the loss. That was the second of three consecutive outings in which Warren was scored upon. The most costly of those was last Saturday against the Padres, in which he gave up a go-ahead (and ultimately game-winning) home run to Freddy Fermin in the seventh inning. He also gave up an insurance run to the Braves in the Mets’ only loss in that series. His only clean outing in the month of June came on June 1 against the Mariners, in which he served as the opener and pitched a scoreless first inning.
Sean Manaea went on to pitch five innings of one-run ball after Warren opened the game, striking out four batters and walking one. Unfortunately, the Mets went on to lose the game in extra innings. Manaea followed that up with another strong outing in San Diego, in which he earned the win. He was rewarded with being granted the standalone start against the Braves in which he pitched six very solid innings, but unfortunately the Mets did not give him enough run support and he took the loss.
After David Peterson’s poor outing against the Cardinals, Jonathan Pintaro had to fall on the sword and soak up the final three innings of the game. He gave up an insurance run, but the game was already well out of hand by that point. He was of course rewarded by being optioned back to Triple-A Syracuse for a fresh arm. That arm was Daniel Duarte, who made back-to-back appearances over the weekend against the Braves and didn’t give up a run in either of them. He was then optioned back down to Triple-A in favor of…Pintaro again. Joey Gerber is receiving much the same treatment; he was recalled on June 3 and pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a lopsided victory against the Mariners that night. He then pitched two innings in last Tuesday’s shutout loss to the Cardinals before being sent back down to Triple-A.
Cionel Pérez, on the other hand, has managed to stick around. He has a 2.84 ERA over 6 1/3 innings in June thus far, giving up just two runs in total over the five appearances he’s had this month. Three of those five appearances were over an inning in length. He appeared once in Seattle, soaking up two innings in an 8-3 loss. He then appeared twice in both the Cardinals and Braves series. Against the Cardinals he had back-to-back scoreless appearances. He recorded two outs in Sunday’s lopsided victory and then earned the victory in Saturday’s game, despite giving up a run.
Pérez’s appearance on Saturday came in relief of Nolan McLean whose performance continues to be…uneven. McLean put up a quality start in San Diego, giving up just one run on three hits, striking out five batters and walking three. Against a more formidable offense in the Braves, he got away with an outing that could have been way worse. After looking unhittable in the first inning, McLean loaded the bases with nobody out in the second inning and somehow only gave up two runs. He needed a ton of pitches to navigate through it, but managed to grind his way through two more innings after that and thanks to Bo Bichette’s power surge, the Mets hung on to win the game.
“Uneven” is a good descriptor for Freddy Peralta’s recent performance as well. He began his June with a quality start against the Mariners in the only win the Mets managed in Seattle. But then he followed that up with one of his worst starts (at least results-wise) as a Met against the Cardinals. Despite the Cardinals dropping a four spot on Peralta in the third, Carlos Mendoza stuck with Peralta for six innings, over which he gave up six runs on six hits in total. His results against the Braves on Sunday were much better and unlike in his previous outing, the Mets gave him plenty of run support to work with and he earned the win to even his record to 5-5.
If nothing else, the Mets have been getting strong work from their closer and primary setup men. Luke Weaver and A.J. Minter are the only pitchers currently on the roster to be unscored upon in the month of June—both across 5 1/3 innings apiece. They definitely co-own top honors for this meter, as Weaver lowers his season ERA to a sparkling 2.40. A.J. Minter returning looking strong is good timing, as the Mets’ other primary lefty Brooks Raley, usually so consistent, has hit a bit of a snag. He began the month by giving up a game-tying homer to Josh Naylor in Seattle in a game the Mets would go on to lose in extra innings. That loss was charged to Minter, but the run was of course unearned due to the ghost runner. Raley bounced back with three consecutive outings in which he pitched a scoreless frame, but then he had a bad outing on Friday which necessitated the use of closer Devin Williams in the eighth inning to hold off the Braves. Williams gave up an RBI single (run charged to Raley), but then got out of it and pitched a scoreless ninth to seal the victory and earn his tenth save of the season. It was the second consecutive save for Williams, who also earned the save in the series finale against the Cardinals, in which the Mets salvaged a win. Williams also pitched in two non-save situations. He followed Weaver’s 1 1/3 scoreless innings in a tie ballgame in Seattle with a scoreless inning of his own to send the game to extra innings and then he gave up a walk and a double to plate a run in San Diego, but the Mets had built up enough cushion that it did not cost them.
Huascar Brazobán also continues to be one of the Mets’ more reliable bullpen arms, but he has been shuttled back and forth between the opener role and a fireman sort of role. He has started two games in June to mixed results. In Seattle, he opened for Jonah Tong and gave up two runs in 1 2/3 innings. Tong poured gasoline on the fire, yielding an additional five runs (only four of which were earned) and taking the loss. Tong was optioned back to Triple-A after that game. Brazobán then opened for Manaea in San Diego and that went much better; he issued two walks to lead off the game, but got out of the inning unscathed thanks in part to a double play grounder off the bat of Ty France. Brazobán was unscored upon in all three of his appearances in the month of June thus far as a reliever, racking up six strikeouts in those appearances, compared to none as an opener. He has put up an incredible 204 ERA+ this season—by far the best mark of his career.
CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 17: Kodai Senga #34 of the New York Mets pitches during the game between the New York Mets and the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on Friday, April 17, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by George Gaza/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Mets lineup
Carson Benge – RF Bo Bichette – SS Juan Soto – LF Jared Young – 1B A.J. Ewing – CF Marcus Semien – 2B Brett Baty – 3B MJ Melendez – DH Francisco Alvarez – C
SP: Kodai Senga – RHP
Reds lineup
Blake Dunn – CF JJ Bleday – LF Sal Stewart – 1B Nathaniel Lowe – DH Eugenio Suarez – 3B Spencer Steer – RF Tyler Stephenson – C Matt McLain – SS Edwin Arroyo – 2B
SP: Brady Singer – RHP
Broadcast info
First pitch: 7:10 PM ET TV: SNY Radio: Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880AM, Audacy App, 92.3 HD2
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers announced Tuesday that Lawrence Tanter is retiring as public address announcer, ending a 43-season run behind the microphone for the franchise's home games.
The Lakers said he will continue to work with the team as a special advisor for game presentation.
Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss lauded Tanner for “setting the tone for countless memorable moments with his professionalism, energy and signature booming voice.”
“Since the 1980s, LT has narrated every chapter of Lakers basketball, connecting generations of fans, players, coaches and staff while becoming a trusted and unforgettable part of the Lakers experience," Buss said. "I am incredibly grateful for everything he has given to this franchise.”
Tanner, who is from Chicago, began his role with the Lakers in 1982 and they won 10 NBA titles during his time with the team.
When LeBron James became the first player in league history to score 50,000 combined points in the regular season and postseason in 2025, the team recognized the milestone during a next timeout.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we all have just witnessed history," Tanner said.
Tanner was the voice heard at home games for many joyful moments, and a painful one in 2020.
Days after Kobe Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash, Tanter introduced each of the Lakers’ five starters as Bryant — drawing tears and cheers from the sellout crowd — before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 10: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks sits on the bench before a game against the Brooklyn Nets at Fiserv Forum on April 10, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 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 Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Bucks fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Giannis Antetokounmpo-sized elephant in the room looms not only over the Bucks’ offseason but every team’s throughout the league. One week before Milwaukee’s apparent self-imposed deadline of the draft to reach a resolution on Giannis’ future with the franchise, rumors are swirling as quickly as they’ve ever been. As has been the case for much of the last year, we’re not covering every single one of them because 1. the usual sources haven’t been very accurate and 2. a sizeable chunk of the fanbase is tired of this all. So we won’t discuss them here either.
Nevertheless, as we await a verdict one way or the other in the coming week, we’re taking one last survey to gauge how you feel about the situation. It’s possible that by the time we compile the results, a decision will have been made that wraps it up. I know I’ll feel relief either way. So let’s be very matter-of-fact: yes or no to trading the best player in Bucks history? And if it does happen, will you feel scorned by the organization?
There are a multitude of different options the New York Rangers can go with their No. 5 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26.
Here are three defensemen the Rangers could look to draft with their top five selection.
Chase Reid:
Scott Wheeler of The Athletic has the Rangers selecting defenseman Chase Reid in his NHL Mock Draft 2.0.
“I’m also starting to think there’s a chance Reid gets here, and if he does, I think they’d take him,” Wheeler wrote.
Reid is a 6-foot-2, 190-pound defenseman from Chesterfield, Michigan, who is coming off an impressive statistical season with the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League, in which he recorded 18 goals, 30 assists, and 48 points in 45 games.
The Athletic’s Corey Pronman has the 18-year-old defenseman ranked as his top prospect in the 2026 NHL Draft.
“Reid is a talented defenseman with a lot of offensive tools. He has the speed, hands, vision and shot to generate chances and be a leading scorer for an NHL team,” Pronman writes. “Reid can create in transition and off the blue line with his feet and creativity, showing high-end improvisation skills.
“Reid isn't overly physical, but he works hard enough and makes plenty of stops due to his reach, feet and compete level even while playing an aggressive style of play offensively. He projects as a major minutes NHL defenseman who can run a first power play.’”
“The Rangers are the first of these teams that I think would give serious consideration to Alberts Šmits as well,” Wheeler wrote.
The 18-year-old defenseman was the youngest player at the 2026 Winter Olympics, representing Latvia and recording two assists in four games while averaging 18:44 minutes per game.
In 38 games for Jukurit in Liiga, Finland's top league, Šmits recorded six goals, seven assists, and 13 points.
“Šmits is a tall defenseman with impressive mobility and smarts,” Pronman writes. “He can make a reliable first pass and has a big point shot, projecting to have quality amounts of offense at the top level. He isn't a super smart puck-mover, but there's enough touch in his game to project to be reliable with the puck in the NHL.
“He defends very well due to his length and feet, while also competing hard and being willing to play the body. He projects as a top-pairing defenseman.
Wheeler reports that the Rangers like Verhoeff, which indicates that he’s on their radar to be selected with the fifth overall pick.
The 17-year-old defenseman is coming off a season with the University of North Dakota, in which he posted 17 points through his first 22 collegiate games, but he had only three assists in his final 14 games.
“Verhoeff is a big two-way defenseman. He's a strong skater, especially for his size,” Pronman writes. “He isn't flashy, nor is he overly creative offensively, but he has good skill, sees the ice well and makes difficult plays with a great point shot that will be a threat in the NHL. His decision-making at times can leave you wanting, though.
“He’s hard on his checks and uses his size. In college, he wasn't a hard minutes defenseman this season, but he has been at the junior level, and he was a 17-year-old on a top college team. He projects as a tough-minutes top-pair defenseman in the NHL who could score at a quality clip.
Davis Martin will make his 14th start of the season against the Yankees, holding a 2.41 ERA. | (MLB Photos via Getty Images)
After going 4-1 against two of the top teams in MLB — the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers — the Chicago White Sox are looking to continue their hot streak on the road as they begin a three-game set with the New York Yankees. The Yanks are the best team in the American League after overtaking their division rivals, the Tampa Bay Rays, and hold a 1 1/2-game lead in the AL East. Believe it or not, the South Siders are right there with them, ranking third in the AL while leading the AL Central division.
Despite playing without catcher Kyle Teel and their best hitter Munetaka Murakami, the Good Guys have still managed to go 6-4 in their last 10 games, and they remain a top-five team in team home runs with 96 on the season. It certainly helps when the rest of the team steps up, especially as players with less raw power start mashing extra-base hits — aka Tristan Peters, Chase Meidroth, and Sam Antonacci.
The Sox offense will have its first challenge in the Bronx with former Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole on the mound for the Yankees, making his fifth start of the year since returning from injury. In six rehab starts in the minors, Cole posted a 4.66 ERA in 29 innings alongside a 1.07 WHIP and 28 Ks, but he’s accumulated better metrics since returning to the majors with a 2.45 ERA in 22 innings. While only two South Siders on the roster have actually hit off of Cole, this isn’t the only run-in he’s had with the White Sox org. In his fourth rehab start, he allowed five earned runs and two home runs while taking the loss against the White Sox High-A affiliate, the Winston-Salem Dash. One of those homers came off the bat of top prospect Caleb Bonemer, whom Gerrit later hit in his third at-bat, because of course he did.
With the strong righty on the mound, the South Siders are using a lefty-heavy lineup at the plate, hoping to take advantage of the short porch and Mickey Mouse fence in right field. Over the past two weeks, nearly the entire starting lineup has posted an OPS above .700, and six of those hitters are at .775 or better. Ideally, they can continue putting the ball in play and playing their game.
Some additional good news for the Good Guys is that they will also have their ace on the mound as Davis Martin makes his 14th start of the season. After a rough outing against Minnesota to begin June, Martin was excellent against the Braves, going six scoreless with six strikeouts to help maintain his 2.41 ERA on the season. Martin’s strong points are that he doesn’t walk a lot of guys (5.4% walk rate), and he has a full arsenal of pitches that he’s able to leverage to get opponents to chase. His fastball averages around 94 mph, but the whiff percentage on his slider is phenomenal at 47%, and this changeup has produced a .150 opponent batting average. As I am writing this, MLB Network is also hyping him up with how great he’s been this season, so it’s not just us White Sox fans realizing how good he has been this year.
While the Yanks will be without Aaron Judge, Davis will still have to work against a tough offensive lineup that has plenty of power, as New York ranks first in barrel rate (10.4%) and home runs (102). First baseman Ben Rice holds down the leadoff spot for the Yankees, and he has been an offensive leader across MLB this season, ranking third in OPS, second in slugging, and eighth in homers with 19.
First pitch will take place at 6:05 p.m. CT at Yankee Stadium with temperatures in the low-70s: a perfect night for some baseball. Tune in to the TV broadcast on CHSN, or listen in at ESPN Chicago AM 1000. Let’s go, Sox!
The Knicks kept the party going an appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" to celebrate winning the 2026 NBA Championship on Monday night in New York.
The Knicks kept the party going after an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” to celebrate winning the 2026 NBA Championship on Monday night in New York.
Point guard Jalen Brunson, who was named NBA Finals MVP, and wife Ali Brunson, along with center Karl-Anthony Towns and fiancée Jordyn Woods, partied after the show at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in the Flatiron District to celebrate the Knicks’ 94-90 Game 5 victory over the Spurs on Saturday night in San Antonio, as seen in photos from the star-studded event.
Teammates OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Jordan Clarkson, Jose Alvarado, Mitchell Robinson, Mohamed Diawara, Kevin McCullar Jr., and Jeremy Sochan were all in attendance as the celebrations in the downstairs lounge lasted until 4 a.m. ET.
Jalen Brunson at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron, celebrating the Knicks’ championship on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.com
Former Giants quarterback Russell Wilson, who recently struck a deal with CBS Sports to become an NFL analyst, and his wife Ciara, actors Kit Harrington, Skylar Astin and Michael Rainey Jr., rappers Jack Harlow, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Fabolous, and Jim Jones, and reality star Vinny Guadagnino were all in attendance.
Ali Brunson, wife of Knicks star Jalen Brunson, and a friend at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron celebrating the Knicks’ championship on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.comJordyn Woods and Karl-Anthony Towns at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron celebrating the Knicks’ championship on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.com
The evening featured performances by rappers A$AP Ferg and Fetty Wap and included custom Don Julio 1942 bottles inscribed to commemorate the title.
Guests enjoyed food by Scarpetta, with the menu including beef sirloin, shredded short rib, branzino and more.
Mitchell Robinson and Jordan Clarkson at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron celebrating the Knicks’ championship on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.comJose Alvarado and his longterm partner at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron are celebrating the Knicks’ championship on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.com
The Seville, located in the lower level of Hotel Seville, is a plush lounge that embraces a polished, fashion-forward and effortlessly sophisticated dress code.
The celebrations came after the team visited “The Tonight Show” just a few miles away.
Russell Wilson and Ciara at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron celebrating the Knicks’ championship on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.comCustom Don Julio 1942 bottles inscribed to commemorate the Knicks’ 2026 title while at a celebration at LDV Hospitality’s The Seville in Flatiron on Monday, June 15, 2026. Madison Voelkel/BFA.com
Brunson, Anunoby, Towns and head coach Mike Brown were guests on the show, along with the rest of the team in the studio.
The Knicks have been on a media tour after winning four of five against the Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals to clinch their first championship in 53 years.
The Knicks’ championship parade will be held in New York on Thursday, starting at 10 a.m.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 14: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets on March 14, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Lakers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Given how great a player Austin Reaves has been after being an undrafted free agent, it’s no question that he’s been performing well above his contract throughout his career.
However, that might not be true for much longer. Reaves is expected to decline his player option and become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Given that he averaged 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game this past season and has improved each year, a player of his caliber becoming available in free agency makes him a hot commodity.
So, for our SB Nation Reacts survey this week, we ask, how much should the Lakers pay Austin Reaves?
There are already reports indicating that a team like the Nets could be interested and possibly offer Reaves a four-year, $178.5 million contract. That would make Reaves a player making $44.6 millon per year, so perhaps LA will have no choice but to pay that kind of number to retain Reaves.
However, all rumors should be taken with a grain of salt, especially as we enter free agency. Until negotiations begin, we don’t know whether interest will turn into action.
Regardless of the Nets’ or any other team’s interest, the Lakers have to figure out what type of deal they want to offer Reaves.
Obviously, the lowest salary possible would be ideal. But if another franchise offers more, LA might have to pay up and get closer to max money.
That would typically limit a team’s ability to make other moves, but given that Reaves’ cap hold this year will be approximately $20.9 million, LA can still pay him and bolster its roster.
Also, while reports with such big numbers attached to Reaves are out there, he has consistently said he isn’t just looking to make as much money as possible. So yes, Reaves will get a raise, but maybe it won’t be for simply the largest amount of money from the highest bidder.
The general expectation is still that Reaves will re-sign with the Lakers. But what number makes the most sense? What rewards him without being insulting, while still allowing the Lakers to continue building the team so they can be contenders?
Trade or keep the pick?
Our other question this week involves the Lakers’ draft pick and whether they should trade or keep it. As things currently stand, LA will select No. 25 in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The Lakers have shown a willingness to deal their first-rounders, but the bar is high.
Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka has consistently stated he’d trade first-round picks if it could create sustainable Lakers excellence. If a deal can be made to bring in an impactful player, perhaps that’s better for the Lakers than anyone available at No. 25.
The counterpoint, though, is that the draft is the place to get young, cost-controlled players, and the Lakers need to take advantage of that.
The Lakers hired former Virginia coach Tony Bennett as an NBA Draft advisor, and it’d be a shame if he didn’t get a chance at helping LA select a player in the first.
But late in the draft, it’s also hard to find good players. Jalen Hood-Schifino was taken by LA at No. 17 in the 2023 draft and is now out of the league. Dalton Knecht was also selected No. 17 back in 2024, and he can’t crack the rotation.
So, with the Lakers trying to win with Luka, the argument can be made that it’s better to get rid of those picks for impactful players now than to hope a prospect can grow into a role.
But what do you think? Let us know in the comments below and in the poll above.
