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LeBron James tells Patrick Beverley to ‘Shut the f— up’ with Kevin Hart’s help

nba legend lebron james and comedian kevin hart
lebron james at fanatics fan fest cropped next to comedian kevin hart

Just hours after Patrick Beverley posted to social media that he heard LeBron James would be making his decision on who he will play for next season, James opted to troll his former teammate.

James posted a video on his Instagram story of famous comedian and actor Kevin Hart saying, “Shut the f— up,” in reaction to his former teammate. That was followed by him leaving a comment that said “BINGO STFU.”

“I don’t know who needs to hear this, but I feel like it’s important. I feel like somebody needs to hear this: shut the f— up,” Hart said in the video, which is followed up by him repeating the phrase over and over again.

James’ Instagram story post came after Beverley tweeted that he could be making his decision on who his next team would be on Monday morning.

James and Beverley were once teammates for 45 games in 2022, until the latter was traded to the Orlando Magic in a four-team deal that resulted in him being waived and later signing with the Chicago Bulls.

The two have had a long-standing rivalry in the NBA. During a game between the Lakers and Bulls in 2023, Beverley infamously scored with a hook shot over James and lowered his hand, the universal sign in the NBA to say “he’s too small.”

Beverley had a 12-year career in the NBA and retired after the 2024 season. Now in his post-playing career, he is the host of a podcast “The Pat Bev Show.”

It’s too hard to tell if Beverley’s sources are correct that James will be making his decision soon, but it appears that the legendary figure will be taking his time.

At Fanatics Fest this past weekend, James did a live showing of his podcast Mind The Game and had Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton as a guest.

Haliburton tried to inject himself into finding out where James would play next by asking him personally, to which James replied: “Didn’t we already talk about this in the back,” thus forcing Haliburton to stay silent on the topic.

The interaction between the two gave NBA fans a glimpse that LeBron could be taking his time to make his decision, despite recently facing pressure from NBA commissioner Adam Silver to sign with a team soon, as there are lingering schedule implications surrounding his free agency.

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Mets activate Luis Robert Jr. from injured list

Luis Robert Jr. #88 of the New York Mets at bat against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on April 17, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

The Mets have reinstated outfielder Luis Robert Jr. from the 60-day injured list, optioned infielder Eric Wagaman to Triple-A Syracuse, and outrighted fellow infielder Zack Short—who was designated for assignment a few days ago—to Syracuse.

Robert Jr. was one of several new acquisitions made by the Mets after the team decided to take a sharp turn from the majority of its former core at the start of the offseason. And like many of his teammates, he’s had an injury-marred and disappointing 2026 season thus far. After getting off to a hot start, Robert Jr. hit the injured list in late April with a .224/.327/.329 line, a 90 wRC+, and 0.1 fWAR. It’ll be interesting to see how often the Mets play him between now and the trade deadline, as he’s been double-Wally Pipped by young outfielders Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing since he was sidelined.

In the short term, perhaps Ewing will start regularly at second base—especially since 2025-26 offseason acquisition Marcus Semien has been terrible this year—to allow Robert to showcase his health and skills in center field ahead of the deadline. Robert is earning $20 million this year and has a $20 million team option for the 2027 season with a $2 million buyout.

If the Mets aren’t able to trade him, though, it would behoove them to keep playing Ewing and Benge alongside Juan Soto in the outfield. And presumably they’d relegate Robert to a semi-regular role, either giving Soto some starts at DH or just having Robert serve as a DH himself.

As for Wagaman, he’s made 42 plate appearances for the Mets, and he’s hit just .162/.262/.324 with a 68 wRC+. Once Mark Vientos hit the injured list, Wagaman started getting regular starts as Jared Young’s platoon partner at first base. The Mets haven’t started anyone other than those three players at first base since early May. Maybe they’ll just let Young face lefties for the time being.

And last but not least, Short has hit just .140/.262/.180 in 62 major league plate appearances this year, the vast majority of which came with the Tigers.

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Pat Riley reveals status of LeBron James’ relationship after rocky Heat split — as free agency rumors swirl

Could Pat Riley welcome back LeBron James with open arms if he decided to sign with the Miami Heat during NBA free agency?

Riley appeared as a guest on “The Dan LeBatard Show” on Monday morning and talked about how he’s let go of the past and the current state of his relationship with James.

“I’ve seen him around, run into him at All-Star games, we had a great embrace when they honored me with a statue out there,” Riley said. “Seeing he and Savannah in the stands at certain things, she’s always been a really gracious, wonderful person.”

Between 2010-2014, James was playing under Riley, who still serves as the Miami Heat’s team president.

During this four-year span, he was playing alongside Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh, where James was a two-time NBA champion (2012 & 2013) and was crowned the NBA Finals MVP and league MVP (2012 & 2013.)

Pat Riley reveals he still enjoys seeing LeBron James and his family around, despite his departure from the Heat in 2014. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

In 2014, the Heat were back in the NBA Finals looking for a three-peat but would end up being stunned as the San Antonio Spurs eliminated them 4-1.

James would become a free agent that year and ended up reuniting with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Riley admitted that he was disappointed with James’ decision to go back to Cleveland, as they believed the Heat were on the verge of becoming a dynasty.

“LeBron and I, we haven’t talked much, but you let go of that stuff,” Riley said. “I was very disappointed because I thought we were looking at a dynasty, or something dynastic, and we now had a chance to add other players to it in 14.”

Pat Riley revealed he still enjoys seeing LeBron James and his family around, despite his departure from the Heat in 2014. Getty Images

Riley went on to say he didn’t want to hang on to that and would like to see him at the golf course someday, despite not being a golfer.

On Saturday, Kalshi betting odds had the Heat as the new favorites to land the future Hall of Famer.

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Tigers vs Cubs Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight's MLB Game

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The Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs meet tonight, with the in-form Jack Flaherty taking the hill for the visitors. 

Behind his recent success, my Tigers vs. Cubs predictions have Detroit winning the series opener as a +101 underdog.

Read more in my MLB picks for Monday, July 20. 

Who will win Tigers vs Cubs today: Tigers (+101)

Jack Flaherty has been lights out for the Detroit Tigers lately. Over his last three outings, the right-hander owns a 2.92 FIP while allowing just 0.54 HR/9, and he has surrendered only two earned runs during that span.

Flaherty’s primary offering is the four-seamer at 49%, and over half of this Chicago Cubs lineup has a Run Value of one or lower against the fastball.

Jameson Taillon counters in his first outing since early June. He owns a 6.31 FIP in 2026 and will likely be on a short leash, exposing a Cubs bullpen with a 5.20 xERA over the last two weeks.

Flaherty keeps Chicago at bay, and Detroit does damage.

I'll play this pick down to -120. 

Covers COVERS INTEL: Taillon is allowing 2.10 HR/9 at Wrigley Field this season, and he's been extremely prone to the long ball overall. 

Tigers vs Cubs Over/Under pick: Under 11.5 runs (-103)

With a total this high, there’s still value in the Under. Even though Chicago's relievers aren't dominating right now, they face a Tigers offense with a 95 wRC+ and .185 ISO over the last two weeks. Extra-base hits drive runs, and Detroit isn't showcasing a ton of power.

The Cubs offense owns a 112 wRC+ across its last nine contests, but the .180 ISO is more manageable. Detroit’s bullpen also gives this Under a strong late-game path, posting a 2.43 FIP over its last 30 innings without allowing a single home run.

I'll confidently play this pick up to -130.

Quinn Allen's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 34-37, -7.21 units
  • Over/Under bets: 40-29, +5.15 units

Tigers vs Cubs weather

Conditions will be warm at Wrigley Field tonight, with temperatures around 83 degrees early, then falling to near 81 later. Winds are noticeable at roughly 15 to 16 mph, while rain chances remain low to moderate at 16% to 24%. Weather could have some impact, mainly because of the wind.

Tigers vs Cubs odds

  • Moneyline: Detroit +104 | Chicago -108
  • Run line: Detroit -1.5 (+156) | Chicago +1.5 (-163)
  • Over/Under: Over 11.5 (-104) | Under 11.5 (-100)

Tigers vs Cubs trend

The Detroit Tigers have hit the game total Under in 21 of their last 30 games (+11.10 Units / 34% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Tigers vs. Cubs.

How to watch Tigers vs Cubs and game info

LocationWrigley Field, Chicago, IL
DateMonday, July 20, 2026
First pitch8:05 p.m. ET
TVDSN, MARQ
Tigers starting pitcherJack Flaherty
(3-8, 4.48 ERA)
Cubs starting pitcherJameson Taillon
(2-5, 5.19 ERA)

Tigers vs Cubs latest injuries

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

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

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Texas Rangers lineup for July 20, 2026

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 19: Brandon Nimmo #24 of the Texas Rangers bats during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on July 19, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Colin Hubbard/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Texas Rangers lineup for July 20, 2026 against the Chicago White Sox: starting pitchers are Jacob deGrom for the Rangers and Erick Fedde for the ChiSox.

Texas begins a seven day homestand today that’s a pretty big deal, facing the first place Chicago White Sox for three games and then the currently second place by a half game, could be first place by the time they arrive to town on Thursday Seattle Mariners for four games. Texas has been underwhelming so far this year, at 24-22, and need to take advantage of the home field and have a strong week if they want to be contenders.

The lineup:

Pederson — DH

Langford — LF

Jung — 3B

Nimmo — RF

Burger — 1B

Duran — SS

Carter — CF

Diaz — C

Lopez — 2B

7:05 p.m. Central start time. Rangers are -168 favorites.

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Dodgers vs Phillies Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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The Philadelphia Phillies are -135 favorites against the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers this evening at Citizens Bank Park.

Cy Young candidate Cristopher Sanchez has been untouchable at home this season, and my Dodgers vs. Phillies predictions and MLB picks expect that to remain the case on July 20.

Who will win Dodgers vs Phillies today: Phillies (-135)

Emmet Sheehan struggled over the last month. His soft contact rate sat at 12% while he induced grounders at a 24.5% clip, lowest among all of today’s projected starters.

That’s not what you want against the Philadelphia Phillies. They rank 10th in wOBA, seventh in hard-hit rate, and tied for third in OPS against righties at home. They should give Sheehan real problems.

Cristopher Sanchez owns a 0.86 ERA and 61.9 GB% at home this season. He’s one of the few who can truly limit the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Back Philadelphia to -145.

Covers COVERS INTEL:Sanchez ranks in the 93rd percentile in Pitcher Run Value, a far cry from Sheehan's 29th percentile grade.

Dodgers vs Phillies Over/Under pick: Under 8.5 (-115)

The Phillies have a solid matchup against Sheehan, but they own a highly underwhelming .212 average against righties in July and slot 25th in wOBA. I don’t think we see a ceiling game offensively.

Meanwhile, the Dodgers are laboring as a whole offensively. They’re hitting just .223 and sit 26th in wOBA this month.

It’ll be difficult to score more than a run or two on Sanchez, and LA has to contend with a bullpen that owns a 3.09 xFIP over the past 60 days when he exits.

Bet to -130.

Todd Cordell's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 60-48, +1.60 units
  • Over/Under bets: 59-44-5, +7.49 units

Dodgers vs Phillies weather

Temperatures in the low 80s are expected, with winds blowing from the northwest. Boost to bats.

Dodgers vs Phillies odds

  • Moneyline: Los Angeles +115 | Philadelphia -135
  • Run line: Los Angeles +1.5 (-170) | Philadelphia -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-105) | Under 8.5 (-115)

Dodgers vs Phillies trend

Philadelphia has hit the game total Under in 31 of the last 50 games (+12.45 units, 23% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Dodgers vs. Phillies.

How to watch Dodgers vs Phillies and game info

LocationCitizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
DateMonday, July 20, 2026
First pitch7 p.m. ET
TVESPN
Dodgers starting pitcherEmmet Sheehan
(4-6, 4.81 ERA)
Phillies starting pitcherCristopher Sanchez
(11-4, 2.62 ERA)

Dodgers vs Phillies latest injuries

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

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

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Cops remove Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson from NYC hot spot after stepping in during Travis Scott bottle-throwing fight

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Jordan Clarkson in a tense exchange outside Zero Bond in NYC, Image 2 shows Jordan Clarkson attends a Raising Cane's party at Zero Bond, Image 3 shows Travis Scott attending the Raising Cane's event at Zero Bond

Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson was removed from a star-studded party at Zero Bond, a members-only social club in New York City, for intervening during an altercation that involved rapper Travis Scott on Saturday night, according to TMZ.

Clarkson, who’s fresh off helping the Knicks secure their first NBA championship in 53 years, reportedly attempted to de-escalate the situation after Scott’s entourage started throwing bottles, and wound up being escorted out by police.

Scott was reportedly booted from the club.

Knicks guard and reigning NBA champion Jordan Clarkson was involved in a tense late-night altercation at the exclusive private members’ club Zero Bond in New York City. BACKGRID
Clarkson reportedly attempted to de-escalate a situation after Scott’s entourage started throwing bottles. BACKGRID
Jordan Clarkson attends a Raising Cane’s party at Zero Bond on July 18, 2026 in New York City. GC Images

Things escalated inside the private party, which was put on by Raising Cane’s, when Scott confronted a unnamed man for allegedly filming him, according to Page Six.

“It all happened really fast,” an insider told Page Six. “It started fast and broke up really quickly.”

The altercation reportedly took place as Scott was watching rapper, 50 Cent perform at the event.

Clark was at the DJ booth during 50 Cent’s performance, as seen in a video online.

nicks guard and reigning NBA champion Jordan Clarkson was involved in a tense late-night altercation at the exclusive private members’ club Zero Bond in New York City. BACKGRID
Rapper Travis Scott at a party at Zero Bond in New York City on Saturday, July 18, 2026. UrbanxDivinity / BACKGRID

The matter did not disrupt the rapper’s performance, Page Six reported.

Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns and fiancée Jordyn Woods, tennis icon Serena Williams, Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant, and Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden all were in attendance.

Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson #00 reacts after he scores in the 2nd quarter against the Spurs in Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 8, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Others included Teyana Taylor, Alix Earle, Brooks Nader, Tate McRae, Druski, Jake and Logan Paul.

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“Hopefully He Decides To Come Back”: Connor Bedard Wants Patrick Kane To Land In Chicago

On Monday, part of his post-contract media availability, Connor Bedard spoke about the possibility of Patrick Kane returning to the Chicago Blackhawks. 

According to multiple sources, including Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Chelios, Kane is down to the Blackhawks and his hometown Buffalo Sabres. A decision is likely to be made over the next couple of weeks. 

Chris Chelios Believes Patrick Kane Is Between Chicago Blackhawks & Buffalo SabresChris Chelios Believes Patrick Kane Is Between Chicago Blackhawks & Buffalo SabresAccording to Chicago Blackhawks legend Chris Chelios, another Chicago Blackhawks legend is close to making a decision.

Connor Bedard perked up a little bit when he started to talk about Kane and the potential for him to come back to Chicago. 

"I hope so," Bedard said. "I don't know what I can say to persuade his decision, but we'd all obviously be so excited to have a player like that, but also a guy like that. I can't imagine his first game back at the UC, the reaction he'd get, and how much juice that would bring not only to our team but our fans as well. That would be incredible to get to play with him and learn from him. Hopefully he decides to come back. You talk about the legacy aspect of it, but as a team, it would make us a way better team. He's still an amazing player. I don't know if this is the best pitch, but hopefully he comes back, and we can play together, for sure."

Patrick Kane is one of the greatest Blackhawks ever, and Connor Bedard is hoping to create a similar legacy. Like Kane, Bedard is a former first-overall pick, so there is pressure for him to do great things. Kane would be a big help. 

Connor Bedard isn't the only individual player on the team that Kane's arrival would help, either. Any center he plays with, whether it be Bedard, Anton Frondell, or Frank Nazar, would instantly have more time and space with or without the puck if they were playing with Kane. 

Also, the power play would dramatically improve as well. It was somewhat of a sore spot in 2025-26, while Kane had 19 power-play points as a member of the Detroit Red Wings. With a larger role on the man-advantage (and even strength), he'd help them score a lot more goals. 

Bedard clearly understands what Kane means to the team, the fanbase, and the city. He is absolutely correct in saying that the United Center would be a fun place to watch a game if Kane came back. If they ever connected on a goal, which they would more than once, the roof would explode. 

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Orioles news: Adley Rutschman to injured list with wrist injury

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JULY 17: Tyler Wells #68 of the Baltimore Orioles and Adley Rutschman #35 of the Baltimore Orioles react after win against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on July 17, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Orioles will have to try to keep their winning streak going without All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman. The team announced on Monday afternoon that Rutschman has been placed on the injured list due to inflammation in his left wrist. Corresponding moves had catcher Chadwick Tromp’s contract selected from Norfolk, with outfielder Rudy Martin designated for assignment to clear a space on the 40-man roster.

As with Blaze Alexander’s injury when a Royals pitcher hit him and fractured a bone in his hand, this one stinks. Rutschman is one of the team’s best players and being without him for any length of time will be an obstacle that they’re going to have to overcome to continue the improvement in their fortunes that they’ve experienced over the last seven games. Can they manage to do that? We’re going to find out. We may not like finding out.

This is now the third trip to the injured list this season for Rutschman. The previous two involved an ankle injury and a concussion. He hasn’t missed an extended amount of time in either of the previous IL trips, so hopefully that’s how it works out again this time. As of this writing, the team has not provided an update regarding Rutschman’s injury or what kind of timetable might be involved in getting him back into good health.

In the short term, the Orioles are also going without Samuel Basallo, which is why Tromp was selected to replace Rutschman even though the team already had brought Sam Huff into the mix yesterday. Basallo departed Sunday’s game early due to shoulder discomfort. I think we can guess that Basallo isn’t going to be capable of playing at least for today. We’ll see how long they drag out a day-to-day injury without putting him on the IL. Missing Rutschman and Basallo both would be even rougher than just missing Rutschman alone.

You may be an Orioles roster sicko if you remembered that Rudy Martin was on the 40-man roster. The team acquired the 30-year-old Martin from the Royals on Friday for cash considerations. That was marginally interesting, in that Martin has never made it to the majors and had exercised what amounts to a “call me up or trade me” option in his minor league contract before the Royals dealt him to the Orioles. He might be wishing that a different team had acquired him now. We’ll know in a few days if he clears waivers.

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Dodgers on Deck: Tuesday, July 21 at Phillies

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 14: Justin Wrobleski #70 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches during the 96th MLB All-Star Game presented by Mastercard at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rob Tringali/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies resume their series on Tuesday night at Citizens Bank Park.

Justin Wrobleski makes the start on Tuesday, one week after he struck out five in two innings in his first All-Star Game, in this same ballpark. Five strikeouts for Wrobleski tied a Dodgers record for an All-Star Game, joining Don Drysdale (1959) and Fernando Valenzuela (1986).

Zack Wheeler had thoracic outlet surgery last September, and his return this season has been nothing short of remarkable. The 36-year-old had a 2.13 ERA and 2.64 xERA in 15 starts this season with a 30.4-percent strikeout rate.

Wrobleski ranks third in the majors at 6.42 innings per start this season, while Wheeler (6.2) ranks eighth.

Tuesday game info

  • Teams: Dodgers at Phillies
  • Ballpark: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
  • Start time: 3:40 p.m. PT
  • TV: SportsNet LA, TBS
  • Radio: AM 570 (English), KTNQ 1020 AM (Spanish)
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Boston Celtics Daily Links 7/20/26

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 9: The sneakers worn by Jalon Moore #34 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2026 NBA Las Vegas Summer League on July 9, 2026 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Becker/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

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Lakers sign Matisse Thybulle to a one-year deal as roster overhaul continues

Portland Trail Blazers guard Matisse Thybulle in the second half of a game in April 2025 in Denver.
Portland Trail Blazers guard Matisse Thybulle in the second half of a game in April 2025 in Denver. (David Zalubowski / Associated Press)

The Lakers have signed forward Matisse Thybulle to a one-year, $3.3-million contract, people familiar with the deal but not authorized to speak publicly told The Times Monday.

Thybulle, who spent last season playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, made the NBA’s all-defensive team twice over his seven-year career. He is a defensive wing player that the Lakers sought to surround Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Thybulle averaged 5.8 points per game last season and shot 43.3% from the field, 39.8% from three-point range, in 30 games.

The Lakers now have a 16-man roster. They’ll have to either trade or waive a player to be at the league maximum number of 15.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

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Lakers reportedly sign Matisse Thybulle to one-year minimum contract

After rumors of their interest had been swirling for a week, the Lakers have agreed to sign defensive wing Matisse Thybulle to a one-year, $3.3 million veteran minimum contract, reports Shams Charania of ESPN.

The Lakers are looking for 3&D wings to play around Luka Doncic and, on paper, Thybulle fits that bill perfectly. He is a high-level perimeter defender, a two-time All-Defensive Team player (most recently 2022), and in the last two seasons he shot 43.8% and then 39.8% from 3-point range. Thybulle long had the reputation of an elite defender who became tougher to use in the playoffs because of his offensive liabilities, but the signs of improved offense the past couple of years could change that narrative.

The concern here is health — Thybulle has played a total of 45 games over those last two seasons. He missed time last season following a thumb surgery (torn ulnar collateral ligament) and has had more chronic knee and ankle issues.

Adding Thybulle brings the Lakers to 16 standard contracts, one more than the league will allow them to carry into the season, meaning that one player needs to be traded, or waived and stretched, before the season starts. The Lakers have talked with Atlanta about a sign-and-trade for Jonathan Kuminga, but the sides are not close, however, if it were a two-for-one deal it would open up a roster spot. Also, the Lakers have looked to trade Dalton Knecht this summer and have talked to teams about a Jake LaRavia or Jarred Vanderbilt trade (teams are more interested in LaRavia, who is owed just $6 million this season, in what would be the final year of his deal).

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Lakers sign Matisse Thybulle to one-year deal

SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 28: Matisse Thybulle #4 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots a three point basket during the game against the San Antonio Spurs during Round One Game Five of the 2026 NBA Playoffs on April 28, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. 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 (Photos by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Lakers have made another perimeter signing to address their need for defense.

According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the purple and gold have agreed to a one-year deal with Matisse Thybulle. The deal is for the veteran’s minimum.

Shams also added a little nugget in his story on Thybulle’s signing, noting that the Lakers spoke to the Blazers about a potential sign-and-trade but nothing amounted from the discussions.

The Lakers also discussed sign-and-trade scenarios with the Trail Blazers, which would have enabled Thybulle to earn a higher salary, but the sides could not reach a deal.

Last season with the Blazers, Thybulle averaged 5.8 points, two rebounds, and two steals per game. However, he played only 30 games after playing just 15 in the 2024-25 season. The flip side to that is, prior to the last two seasons, he played at least 65 games in every season of his career.

Thybulle’s greatest skill comes on the defensive side of the ball. He was named Second Team All-Defense in his second and third years in the league with the Sixers.

For most of his career, Thybulle was a liability offensively. However, over those last two seasons, Thybulle shot a respectable 41.1% from three on 141 attempts in those 45 games. He also has upped his volume from three in recent seasons with his three years in Portland ranking as his three highest in terms of attempts per game of his career.

One of the first obvious takeaways from this signing is that it now leaves the Lakers with 16 players on standard contracts. Teams can go up to 20 contracts through the preseason, but must be down to 15 by opening night.

The Lakers will have to move on from one of their contracts, either by trading a player or waiving them. At this point as a team well over the cap, waiving a player will not open up any cap room, even if it’s a waive-and-stretch of Jarred Vanderbilt. That makes it more likely a trade could be in the works.

There have been plenty of rumors about a Jonathan Kuminga signing, which would require a sign-and-trade to complete anyway. What this Thybulls signing seems to forecast is that the team is likely to trade Jarred Vanderbilt for someone, whether it’s Kuminga or not.

There’s also the possibility of the team trading Bronny James to the team that signs LeBron, though they have indicated a desire to keep Bronny. Considering he’s a useful player on the roster and they have multiple players who don’t fit that billing, it’d make more sense to get off some of those players and keep around players like Bronny.

The Lakers are hoping Thybulle can also fall into that category of being a useful player as well.

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Bedard Hoping Kane Chooses Chicago Over Buffalo

The Buffalo Sabres have not done much to replace the 44 goals from last season that departed with the trades of Bowen Byram and Alex Tuch, and there has been a great deal of conjecture that one of GM Jarmo Kekalainen’s possible options is signing Buffalo native and three-time Cup winner Patrick Kane.

Kane remains unsigned after three weeks of free agency. Last week, Hall-of-Fame blueliner and TNT commentator Chris Chelios indicated on a Chicago radio show that a return to the Blackhawks is a possibility. 

"I am not gonna lie to you guys, it is down to Buffalo and Chicago. I know that." Chelios said on 104.3 The Score last week, “I spoke to (Patrick), it’s a tough decision for him, whether to go home and make it easy on his parents, his family and his friends and finish like (Jonathan Toews) tried to do, or he comes back (to Chicago). In my opinion, he’s a Blackhawk.”

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Over the weekend, the Hawks announced the signing of star center Connor Bedard to a five-year, $75 million contract extension, and during his media availability on Monday, the former Calder Trophy winner indicated that he hopes that Kane will re-sign with the Hawks. 

Where will Patrick Kane end up?

"I hope so. I don't know what I can say to persuade his decision, but we'd all obviously be so excited to have a player like that, but also a guy like that.” Bedard said.  “I can't imagine his first game back at the (United Center), the reaction he'd get and how much juice that would bring not only to our team but our fans as well. That would be incredible to get to play with him and learn from him. Hopefully he decides to come back. You talk about the legacy aspect of it, but as a team, it would make us a way better team. He's still an amazing player. I don't know if this is the best pitch, but hopefully he comes back, and we can play together, for sure."

Kane has often been rumored to be Buffalo bound, but especially after being traded to the NY Rangers in 2023 and signing with the Detroit Red Wings in 2024. The Sabres snapping their 15-year playoff drought has made them a more attractive landing spot, but there has always been a debate of how much he wants to play for his hometown team, especially with the expectation level raised since their Atlantic Division title last season. 

The Hawks will be without Bedard until November recovering from shoulder surgery and are in all likelihood will not be a playoff team, but is the place where Kane won three Cups and played 16 years. The allure of finishing his Hall-of-Fame career there might be the biggest hurdle the Sabres have in bringing him back home.   

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo

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