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Kyle Davidson Explains Why Now Was The Time For Patrick Kane's Return To Blackhawks

When Kyle Davidson took over as the Chicago Blackhawks GM, he had a vision. That vision was to tear the team down to nothing and then build it back up through the draft. It was intentional to go through some painful years, which they certainly have. 

Part of that teardown was the trade that sent Patrick Kane to the New York Rangers ahead of the deadline in 2023. He finished that year with New York, a first-round exit at the hands of the New Jersey Devils, and has played with the Detroit Red Wings ever since. 

On Thursday, the Blackhawks announced that Kane would be coming back on a two-year deal ($8 million AAV) at the age of 37. This comes just a couple of years after Davidson said that Kane’s time in Chicago was done, and it was a necessary move for the growth of the team. He continued to shoot down any return rumors from that point on. 

At first, it made sense to let both Kane and Jonathan Toews go so that new leaders within the franchise could emerge. However, in 2024, Davidson mentioned that he doesn’t ever see them going back on that. 

So, what changed? Davidson was asked that question during Friday’s presser reintroducing Kane:

"When Patrick departed a couple years ago, we were in a totally different spot as a franchise,” said Davidson. “We were much more at the outset of this whole project. Now that we’ve got some of these draft picks that have entered and established themselves in the NHL, the time was right with what he provides."

With Connor Bedard already reaching star status, along with Anton Frondell, Frank Nazar, and others on the rise, the organization felt like now would be a good time to bring back a franchise icon to help them grow. 

Kane's production on the ice may fluctuate over his final few years in the NHL, but his impact will be felt no matter what. His wisdom that comes from the experiences that he's had as an NHL player will be invaluable to the younger members of the team. 

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LeBron James has chosen a team — what it may mean for the Dallas Mavericks

DALLAS, TX - MARCH 16: Klay Thompson #31 and P.J Washington #25 of the Dallas Mavericks high five during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 16, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

LeBron James has chosen the Philadelphia 76ers as the next team he will play for in his illustrious career. As James has been wont to do over the past two decades, he once again took his time in making a decision before joining up with the newly reloaded 76ers who benefited from the acquisition of Jaylen Brown earlier in the offseason.

It was widely believed that James all but halted the offseason for the entire league, as other transactions were put on hold pending the outcome of his latest decision. Some teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, operated around such roadblocks, but now that there are at least four more teams – more than 10% of the league – no longer in play for James’ services (the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves were all rumored as serious suitors), it’s widely expected further transactions will now take place.

As things took shape, the Mavericks were doing work. They quite literally scoured the earth for talent in an effort to get younger and more athletic around franchise cornerstone, Cooper Flagg. Much of those efforts took place in the margins, but with James’ stranglehold on the proceedings now released, Dallas may very well be poised to move some of their now-redundant pieces as they continue to rebuild. Following are arguably the three most likely candidates to find themselves in different uniforms by the start of next season.

Klay Thompson

Thompson may be the most obvious candidate to be moved off the Dallas roster. He came to Dallas as the missing piece in a championship team, only to watch those prospects dissolve mere months later at the hands of Nico Harrison. Since that time, Thompson’s presumably limited remaining playing career has been spent on an oft-injured 26-win team. He has remained a professional through it all, but one has to assume he’d like a chance to join a team on his own terms and pursue immediate playoff basketball.

Where Thompson would go is anyone’s guess, but a reunion with the Golden State Warriors (who are now free of James’ hold) would be charming, assuming Thompson reconciles his differences with them. The Miami Heat (also out of the James running) make a lot of sense, too. Both clubs offer Thompson a chance to win now, rather than spend the remaining years of his career in a rebuild. Whatever the case, it would be nice to see Thompson get a chance to play past April, and it would afford Dallas the chance to let their younger players get necessary reps. Moving Thompson is a win/win.

Daniel Gafford

I am a fan of Daniel Gafford and have long been an advocate for keeping him in Big D. While I remain a fan, one of the biggest reasons I wanted him to stick around was because the prospect of having zero capable centers on the roster was far from ideal. That scenario has now changed with the acquisition of Santi Aldama, the return of Moussa Cisse, the selection of Morez Johnson, Jr. in this summer’s NBA Draft and an overall influx of size. Not all of these players are centers in the truest sense, but the Mavericks have gotten taller and longer overall and should be more than capable of going big even in the absence of Gafford. If Derek Lively returns healthy, they will be better positioned still.

It feels as though the writing is on the wall for Gafford, as rumors have swirled around him since last season’s trade deadline. At this point, it is probably for the best for both sides to find a new destination where he fits the timeline better, and where the Mavs can restock some draft capital or obtain some guard depth. The latest rumors have him packaged with none other than…

P.J. Washington

Whether or not Washington is packaged with Gafford, it seems there is a real chance he could be shipped out. He (along with Gafford) is one of the higher paid players on the team but still has a tradable contract. Moving him, especially in light of the glut of forwards on the team, which has only increased in size this offseason, could potentially offer the Mavs financial flexibility or at least the opportunity to pick up some equally-paid talent or picks. It’s difficult to envision the Mavs stripping out all of their veteran leadership, but with Naji Marshall’s presence and his ability to ball-handle and create his own shot, there is a strong case to be made that he sticks around over Washington.

Rumors are now circulating that both Washington and Gafford could be moved in the same transaction, albeit to different locations. The rumored framework sends Washington to the Portland Trailblazers, Gafford to the Utah Jazz and Jrue Holiday to the Mavericks along with a lottery-protected first round pick and three second round picks. If such a transaction comes to fruition, it would be a solid move for Dallas. They would move out two slightly older players that don’t necessarily fit long term for an even older player, but one that fits a current need and comes along with much needed draft capital. Holiday could be a boon for the Mavericks, as they work Kyrie Irving back from injury. He would also replace the veteran leadership lost in Washington and Gafford, while serving as a mentor to young guards Sergio De Larrea and Marcus Sasser. He has two years remaining on his contract, which frankly, is massive ($35 million plus each year) and the primary drawback to such a deal.

For now, all we have are rumors and speculation, but with the brakes off for the remainder of the summer, it’s fair to expect one or more of Thompson, Gafford and Washington will be playing elsewhere come October. Stay tuned to Mavs Moneyball for all the latest transactions as and when they become reality.

I invite you to follow me @_80MPH on X, and check back often at Mavs Moneyball for all the latest on the Dallas Mavericks.

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Open Thread: Julian Champagnie made a suprise appearance at USAA

SAN ANTONIO, TX - JUNE 4: Julian Champagnie #30 of the San Antonio Spurs talks to the media during a press conference during 2026 NBA Finals Practice and Media Availability on June 4, 2026 at 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(Photo by Ryan Stetz/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Julian Champagnie has been with the Spurs now for just over three seasons. This summer he signed a 3-year/$45M contract that should keep the 3-point assassin decked out in Silver & Black for the foreseeable future. Never one to shy away from the community aspect of the Spurs Organization, Champagnie made a surprise visit to USAA recently to spend some time with families who have lost a parent serving in the military.

During his presser, he expressed his interest in playing with the Spurs for the rest of his career.

Sure, every player is semi-required to say that where they are is where they always want to be, but considering the mutual respect between Champagnie and the Spurs, this makes sense. He was pulled off waivers two days after being released by the Philadelphia 76ers while they cleared a roster spot for Mac McClung. The Sixers got a Dunk Contest winner and the Spurs added a key piece to their team. Champagnie has not only been one of the best shooters in for the franchise, his rebounding has become an essential element of the Spurs defense.

Welcome to the Thread. Join in the conversation, start your own discussion, and share your thoughts. This is the Spurs community, your Spurs community. Thanks for being here.

Our community guidelines apply which should remind everyone to be cool, avoid personal attacks, not to troll and to watch the language.

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Yankees prospects: Cebert’s five scoreless caps off strong month

Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders:L, 1-8 vs. Syracuse Mets

SS George Lombard Jr. 1-3, 1 BB, 1 K — no fretting about him not starting this time
C J.C. Escarra 1-4, 3 K, catchers’ interference
CF Spencer Jones 0-4, 2 K
DH Marco Luciano 0-3, 1 BB, 3 K
RF Yanquiel Fernández 0-3, 1 R, 1 BB
2B Oswaldo Cabrera 2-4
3B Tyler Hardman 0-3, 1 RBI, 1 BB, 1 K
1B Ernesto Martinez Jr. 1-4, 2 K
LF Kenedy Corona 0-4, 3 K

Adam Kloffenstein 4 IP, 2 R, 2 H, 4 BB, 5 K, 1 HR (loss)
Chris Kean 1 IP, 3 R, 3 H, 1 BB
Carson Coleman 0.2 IP, 3 R, 4 H
Danny Watson 1.1 IP, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K
Yerry De Los Santos 2 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 1 K

Double-A Somerset Patriots:W, 5-4 at New Hampshire Fisher Cats

2B Connor McGinnis 2-4, 1 BB, 1 K
DH Jace Avina 2-5, 1 HR, 1 2B, 1 RBI, 2 R, 1 K
3B Coby Morales 3-5, 1 R, 1 SB
CF DJ Gladney 3-5, 1 2B, 1 RBI, 1 R, 1 K, 1 SB — go-ahead RBI single in the ninth
LF Jackson Castillo 2-5, 1 RBI, 1 SB
RF Cole Gabrielson 1-4, 1 2B, 1 RBI, 1 R, 1 SB
1B Josh Moylan 1-4, 1 RBI
C Manuel Palencia 1-4, 1 K, throwing error
SS Owen Cobb 0-4, 1 K, throwing error

Jack Cebert 5 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 3 BB, 7 K — 1.74 ERA in July after being north of five in May and June
Geoffrey Gilbert 1 IP, 2 R, 2 H, 1 BB, 2 K, 1 HR
Kevin Stevens 1.2 IP, 0 R, 2 K
Michael Arias 0.2 IP, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 H, 1 K (win)
Tony Rossi 0.2 IP, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K (save)

High-A Hudson Valley Renegades:L, 1-9 at Wilmington Blue Rocks

3B Roderick Arias 1-3, 1 RBI, 1 BB, missed catch
SS Core Jackson 0-3, 1 BB, 2 K
C Eric Genther 0-4
1B Kyle West 0-4, 3 K
RF Enmanuel Tejeda 0-4
DH Robbie Burnett 0-3, 2 K
CF Camden Troyer 1-2, 1 BB — broke up the no-hit bid in the eighth with his single
LF Luis Durango 0-3, 1 R
2B Santiago Gomez 0-3, 1 K

Bryce Cunningham 3.2 IP, 5 R, 7 H, 3 BB, 2 K (loss)
Bryce Warrecker 0.1 IP, 2 R, 2 H, 1 BB, 1 HR
Wilmy Sanchez 1 IP, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K
Sean Paul Liñan 3 IP, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 3 K

Low-A Tampa Tarpons:W, 6-5 at Palm Beach Cardinals

DH Dax Kilby 1-3, 1 2B, 1 RBI, 1 R, 2 BB, 1 K
SS Jackson Lovich 0-5
LF Luis Puello 2-4, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 1 R
1B Hans Montero 1-4, 1 K, 1 CS
3B Bryce Martin-Grudzielanek 1-3, 1 BB, 1 SB, 1 CS
RF Willy Montero 0-2, 1 R, 2 BB, 1 K, 1 SB
RF Gabriel Lara 0-0
2B Christofer Reyes 1-4, 1 2B, 1 R, 2 K
CF Isael Arias 2-4, 1 2B, 2 RBI, 1 R, 1 K, 1 CS
C Ediel Rivera 0-2, 1 R, 2 BB, 2 K

Justin West 6 IP, 3 R, 8 H, 1 BB, 6 K, 1 HR (win)
Jordarlin Mendoza 1.2 IP, 2 R, 2 H, 4 K, 1 HR (hold)
Austin Breedlove 1.1 IP, 0 R, 2 BB (save)

Florida Complex League Yankees: Season over

Dominican Summer League Yankees:L, 1-6 (7) at DSL White Sox

CF Isaias Castillo 2-4, 1 R, 1 SB
DH Stiven Marinez 1-2, 1 BB
RF Yostin Pena 0-3, assist
2B Juan Torres 0-3
C Cesar Lopez 2-3
1B Poly Ojeda 0-2, 1 BB, 1 K
3B Adrian Feliz 1-2, 1 BB, throwing error
SS Abrahan Pichardo 0-3
LF Eliezer Adames 0-2, 1 BB, 2 K

Jhon Beltre 3 IP, 5 R, 6 H, 3 BB, 2 K (loss)
Yunior Jerez 3 IP, 1 R, 3 H, 3 K

Dominican Summer League Bombers:W, 13-5 vs. DSL Cardinals

CF Ruben Castillo 3-5, 1 RBI, 3 R, 2 SB, assist
SS Dariel Santana 1-2, 2 RBI, 2 R, 3 BB, 1 K, 2 SB, 1 CS, throwing and fielding errors
DH Alessandro Rodriguez 0-4, 1 R, 1 BB, 3 K
2B Carlos Bello 2-4, 1 2B, 1 R, 1 BB, 2 SB, 1 CS
RF David Carrera 2-3, 1 RBI, 1 R, 2 BB, 2 SB
C Kenneth Melendez 0-4, 1 R, 1 BB, 2 K
3B Germayhoni Beltre 1-4, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 CS
1B Edgar Jimenez 3-5, 1 3B, 1 2B, 3 RBI, 2 R, 1 K
LF Richard Meran 0-4, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K

Jose Sanchez 4 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 1 BB, 4 K
Sebastian Castillo 3 IP, 4 R, 5 H, 2 BB, 3 K (win)
Ronald Tejada 2 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 H, 2 BB, 1 K

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Tigers can clinch series win vs Royals with win on Saturday afternoon

The Detroit Tigers took the second of the four-game home series against the Kansas City Royals on Friday night with a narrow 2-1 victory. Tarik Skubal was his dominant self over 7 1/3 innings of work and the offense managed to muster up just enough for the win for the second night in a row.

With a series win in the crosshairs, right-hander Casey Mize will take the mound on Saturday afternoon for the Ole English D. The 29-year-old has had mixed results this month, which has averaged out to a solid 3.45 ERA and a 3.11 FIP stretching across 15 2/3 innings, allowing 17 hits (one home run) and five walks while striking out 14 over that span.

On the other side of the equation is fellow righty Michael Wacha, who has been solid so far in his 14th season of big league ball. The 35-year-old has had a rough month of July, however, posting a 5.91 ERA and 5.36 FIP over his last three starts stretching across 10 2/3 innings, allowing nine hits (two home runs) and five walks while striking out 10, plus a hit-by-pitch.

Wacha faced the Tigers earlier this year, tossing seven frames of scoreless ball on a pair of hits and walks while striking out six, hitting a batter and throwing a wild pitch en route to a 5-1 victory at Comerica Park.

Here is a look at how the two match up on Saturday afternoon in the D.

Detroit Tigers (50-54) vs. Kansas City Royals (43-62)

Time (ET): 1:10 p.m.
Place: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
SB Nation Site:Royals Review
Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network

Game 105: RHP Casey Mize (4-6, 2.79 ERA) vs. RHP Michael Wacha (5-7, 3.66 ERA)

PlayerGIPK%BB%GB%FIPfWAR
Mize1580.225.65.933.82.622.7
Wacha20125.119.87.137.94.031.9

MIZE

WACHA

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Mets Daily Prospect Report, 7/26/26: Mashin’ Mauricio

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 6: Ronny Mauricio #0 of the New York Mets bats during the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on July 6, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Triple-A: Syracuse Mets (49-50)

SYRACUSE 8, SCRANTON/WILKES-BARRE 1 (BOX)

Jonah Tong struck out nine, that’s nice. He also walked four and only made it through 4.2 innings. Really just a lost season for the right hander as he continues to search for a new pitch mix. Anyway, Ronny Mauricio had 4 RBI in a comfortable win.

Double-A: Binghamton Rumble Ponies (34-60)

PORTLAND 8, BINGHAMTON 1 (BOX)

Whoof.

High-A: Brooklyn Cyclones (38-54)

GAME 1: BROOKLYN 4, JERSEY SHORE 3 / 8 (BOX)

Game 1 went to the Cyclones after they scored three in the eighth inning on singles from Yonatan Henriquez and Mitch Voit as well as a bases loaded walk to Daiverson Gutierrez. Voit had three this on the day, but also made an error and was caught stealing.

GAME 2: JERSEY SHORE 5, BROOKLYN 0 / 7 (BOX)

Two hits and two errors didn’t cut it in game 2. At least it was a split.

Single-A: St. Lucie Mets (43-50)

FORT MYERS 9, ST. LUCIE 3 (BOX)

Ugly pitching performance in the middle innings from Tyler McLoughlin and Ernesto Mercedes. The offense wasn’t great either, and Antonio Jimenez seems to be struggling again.

Rookie: FCL Mets (24-32)

NO GAME (SCHEDULE)

Rookie: DSL Mets Orange (20-19)

DSL METS ORANGE 6, DSL NATIONALS 4 (BOX)

Rookie: DSL Mets Blue (14-24)

DSL MARLINS 8, DSL METS BLUE 4 (BOX)

STAR OF THE NIGHT

Ronny Mauricio

GOATS OF THE NIGHT

Ernesto Mercedes

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Phillies news: Tyler Spangler, John Kruk, Emerson Hancock

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 24: John Kruk takes the field to throw the ceremonial first pitch prior to Game 7 of the NLCS between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brian Garfinkel/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

LeBron James is a Sixer, which is cool.

But don’t let that distract you from what’s going on with the Phillies, which is, uh, something.

On to the links.

Phillies news:

MLB news:

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Sabres Have Trade Target To Consider In Penguins Star Winger

The Sabres were dealt bad news earlier this week, as Patrick Kane signed with the Chicago Blackhawks. It was no secret that the Sabres were in on Kane, and it made sense when noting that they need a replacement for Alex Tuch in their top six. 

Yet, after missing out on Kane, the Sabres will now need to consider their options elsewhere. When looking at trade candidates around the NHL, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Bryan Rust stands out as an interesting potential option for the Sabres to consider. 

Rust's name has entered the rumor mill this off-season as the Penguins continue their retool. When noting that he is an impactful top-six winger who produces strong offense and plays solid defensively, he would be a big pickup for the Sabres if acquired. 

If the Sabres acquired Rust, he could slot perfectly on their second line. He would also give them another clear option for their power play and penalty kill if brought in. 

In 72 games last season with the Penguins, Rust posted 29 goals, 36 assists, and 65 points. With numbers like these, the 34-year-old winger certainly would have the potential to make up for the offense lost with Tuch's departure if brought in. 

Let's see if the Sabres end up making a push for Rust from here. 

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Kentucky Wildcats News: LeBron James joins Tyrese Maxey and Justin Edwards with the 76ers

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 07: Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers hugs Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers after a game at Xfinity Mobile Arena on December 07, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Los Angeles Lakers won 112-108. 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 Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, BBN!

It finally happened: LeBron James has decided where he wants to play next, and he’s pairing up with former Wildcats Tyrese Maxey and Justin Edwards with the Philadelphia 76ers.

If you’re a LeBron fan, like me, you have to be on cloud 9. 

If you’re not, but you’re a Kentucky fan, you should still be very excited. The last time LeBron teamed up with a former Cat, it resulted in a championship. LeBron and AD were unstoppable when they first teamed up with the Los Angeles Lakers; I wish we could’ve seen them healthier together. 

Nonetheless, it looks like this will be LeBron’s last stop before retirement, and what better way to finish it than with Maxey, Edwards, V.J. Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, and Joel Embiid. 

If this doesn’t make them the favorite in the East past the defending champion Knicks, it certainly makes them 2nd. 

It should be an absolutely wild 2026-27 NBA season, and I, for one, can’t wait. Bring all the madness, and please, everyone, stay healthy! 

Are you excited about LeBron heading to Philly?

Tweet of the Day

Congrats to Oscar Tshiebwe, who also just signed with the Houston Rockets!!!

Headlines

As Summer Practice Nears End, Pope ‘Excited’ About Cats – UK Athletics

After all of the controversy we’ve seen, it has been a pretty good summer.

Craig Skinner to be Inducted into Delaware County (IN) Athletic Hall of Fame – UK Athletics

Very well-deserved.

Lance Heard, Willie Rodriguez Earn Preseason Media Days All-SEC Honors – UK Athletics

Excited for these two.

LeBron picks 76ers as ‘last decision,’ to sign 2-year, $8M deal – ESPN

Love that he took less money to pursue a championship.

Michael Kim shoots 59 at the 2026 3M Open, joins historic group on PGA Tour with 16th sub-60 round – CBS Sports

Insane round.

Andy Reid: Patrick Mahomes has been cleared to fully participate – NBC Sports

Wow.

Dribble Handoff: Which new college basketball coach will have the most successful long-term career? – CBS Sports

Love Mike Malone with North Carolina.

Bryson DeChambeau: I could have fought for Open win without penalty – ESPN

Sure, Bryson, sure.

Ranking NFL contenders by backup QB situations: Mac Jones, Davis Mills headline best insurance policies – CBS Sports

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Ex-Penguins Forward Quickly Lands New Gig After Retiring

Earlier this week, former Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrew Agozzino announced his retirement from professional. Now, just a few days later, he has already landed his first job since hanging up the skates. 

The Tucson Roadrunners of the AHL have announced that they have hired Agozzino as a new assistant coach. 

Seeing Agozzino become an assistant coach for the Roadrunners is a cool story, as he played each of the last two seasons with the AHL club. Clearly, they appreciated what the former Penguins forward did for them as a player, and he will now be one of their coaches because of it. 

Agozzino will now give the Roadrunners a new coach who had a long career in the AHL. In 847 career AHL games over 15 seasons, the former Penguins forward posted 284 goals, 378 assists, and 662 points. This included him posting 14 goals and 33 points in 37 games for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in 2019-20. 

Agozzino also played in 53 career games at the NHL level over eight seasons, posting three goals, 12 points, and a plus-4 rating. In 17 games with Pittsburgh, he recorded two assists. 

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Report: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope expected to sign with Sixers

SACRAMENTO, CA - FEBRUARY 4: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope #3 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on February 4, 2026 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, 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 Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

It hasn’t even been a day since LeBron James has reportedly signed with the Sixers and yet the front office remains active. Chris Haynes of NBATV and Amazon Prime has reported that the Sixers will reportedly be signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope pending a buyout of his contract with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Caldwell-Pope, also a Klutch client, was teammates with LeBron in Los Angeles from 2018 through 2021. As a 3-and-D wing, not only did he win a championship with the Lakers, he also played a key role in the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 championship run.

His career post-Denver hasn’t exactly gone as envisioned. In the 2024 offseason, Caldwell-Pope signed a three-year, $66 million deal with the Orlando Magic. He struggled his lone season there, shooting 34 percent from three before being used as salary filler to acquire Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies.

Caldwell-Pope played 51 games for a tanking Grizzlies team, averaging 8.4 points per game, shooting 41 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range. After putting up numbers below his career average for two straight seasons, it would appear he will be bought out from that contract, allowing the Sixers to buy low on a battle-tested veteran.

It makes sense for the Sixers to bolster their backup wings, the rest of their depth chart contains Dean Wade, Justin Edwards, and Dominick Barlow. The maneuvering the Sixers do to open up a spot to sign Caldwell-Pope will be interesting.

After the signing of James, the Sixers already have to waive one of Jabari Walker or Dalen Terry’s non-guaranteed contracts to stay below the first apron. Adding Caldwell-Pope would mean the Sixers would have to get rid of both of those salaries. If they are somehow able to shed the salary of Johni Broome, they could keep one of Walker or Terry, but neither of their contracts being guaranteed yet makes them easy to put on the chopping block.

It’s worth bickering over how the Sixers use their final roster spots, but regardless, veterans wanting to come to this team on the minimum is a good thing, and hopefully Caldwell-Pope is only the first to do so.

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Patrick Kane’s Chicago return brings back memories of botched Jaromir Jagr/Penguins attempt in 2011

PITTSBURGH, PA - FEBRUARY 18: Jaromir Jagr poses for a photo with Evgeni Malkin #71 and Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins after having his number retired and banner raised to the rafters before the game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Los Angeles Kings at PPG PAINTS Arena on February 18, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

Patrick Kane is returning to Chicago, signing a two-year deal to go back to the Blackhawks. It’s a nice way for him and the team to presumably put the final chapter on his career and go full circle for a Hall of Fame run.

It also made me think of how that was denied for the Penguins with Jaromir Jagr.

This summer are some round anniversary figures for Jagr and the Pens. It was 25 years ago this month that his stint in Pittsburgh came to an end in 2011 via a trade to Washington that ended up being a real lose-lose situation for both sides.

Then, 15 years ago, Jagr and the Pens flirted with the idea of a reunion in the summer of 2011. The star forward, then 39, was looking to return to the NHL after playing three years in a self-imposed exile to the KHL. The Pens had prime Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin and were looking to win more Stanley Cups.

Everything looked perfect, but the pieces didn’t fit. Jagr, ever peculiar, had desires the Pens couldn’t match – Jagr always preferred playing with a right-handed center, both Crosby and Malkin are lefties. It is also out there that while some within the higher-ups in Pittsburgh were eager for Jagr’s return, then GM Ray Shero (in the midst of a cap crunch) was not one of them. Shero made an offer to Jagr that was significantly lower than what he received from at least two other NHL teams that further soured feelings.

At this point, the whole thing feels like a fever dream. The Pens even went so far as to publicly retract their contract offer to Jagr when through the negotiation it became apparent the two sides weren’t going to reach an agreement. The rumors and anticipation had grown so highly that this kind of statement was deemed necessary to break the news themselves that a reunion wasn’t going to happen.

Could you even imagine something like that these days? Obviously the internet and social media existed 15 years ago, but not to the same extent of how that news would rattle around cyberspace today.

In the end, Jagr went with the highest offer (and a right handed center) to resume his NHL career. It turned out to be a $3.3 million contract with, of all teams, the Philadelphia Flyers and Claude Giroux. Jagr would go onto score 54 points in 79 games with the Pens’ biggest rivals and be on the team that eliminated Pittsburgh in the playoffs in 2012.

From there, Jagr became even more nomadic in his 40’s, playing in small bursts for all of Dallas, Boston, New Jersey and Florida before finally wrapping up his storied NHL career in Calgary for the 2017-18 season. The idea of Jagr wanting to return to Pittsburgh, or the Pens wanting him back as a player, were closed off permanently after 2011 without much real consideration of either side.

Fortunately, there was a happy ending to the whole thing. Jagr has stayed busy with the Czech league team in Kladno that he had an ownership stake in, still remaining an occasional part-time player through 2025-26 (six games at the age of 53). That distance made a formal reconciliation take time, which finally happened in February 2024 when Jagr’s famous No. 68 was taken up to the rafters in Pittsburgh and the organization and fans could give him the proper send off.

That reunion had to happen after the fact in Pittsburgh, which has to feel a little bit of jealously and envy that Chicago fans will get a second chapter on the ice with one of their franchise’s best ever players when Patrick Kane returns to play.

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YouTube Gold: 1964 Game 7 Western Conference Finals With Three Brilliant Talents

Mar 29, 1961; Los Angeles, CA, USA: FILE PHOTO; St. Louis Hawks forward Bob Pettit (9) in action against the Los Angeles Lakers during the 1961 playoffs at the L.A. Sports Arena. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-Imagn Images Network

This is some pretty rare video from 1964, of a Game 7 between the (then) St. Louis Hawks and the (then) San Francisco Warriors.

There are at least three Hall of Famers in this game: Wilt Chamberlain and Nate Thurmond for the Warriors, and Bob Pettit for the Hawks.

San Francisco started both Chamberlain, who was 7-1 and 27, and Thurmond, who was 6-11 and 22, and that was unusual in that era. However, both were supremely athletic, and that allowed the Warriors to play both at the same time.

Pettit at that point was 31 and nearing the end of his career. He was an early prototype of what we now tend to call a stretch-four. At 6-9, he was a gifted outside shooter. He was also a talented rebounder, and like contemporary Bill Russell, played with a burning intensity.

Of these three Hall of Famers, Chamberlain passed away in 1999, and Thurmond in 2016.

Pettit lives. Along with Richie Guerin and Cliff Hagan, he is one of the oldest former NBA players. Hagan and Guerin are both 94, while Pettit is 93.

However, none of them are the oldest former NBA player. That would be Bob Cousy, who will turn 98 in a couple of weeks.

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SB Nation Reacts: Gonzo for Gonzalez

BROOKLYN, NY - JANUARY 23: Jaylen Brown #7 and Hugo Gonzalez #28 of the Boston Celtics celebrates during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on January 23, 2026 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler /NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

With the departure of Jaylen Brown, there’s an opportunity for Boston’s plethora of wings to take his place in the rotation.

Yes, the veteran Paul George will get a lot of that playing time…when he’s available. For one reason or another, the 16-year pro played just 37 and 41 games in his two seasons with the 76ers. Thankfully, there’s a plethora of wings to backup the 36-year-old.

Over the summer, the Celtics decided to sign Ron Harper Jr. and extend Jordan Walsh to multi-year contracts. They also still have two seasons of Baylor Scheierman on his rookie deal and head coach Joe Mazzulla visited him in Nebraska to catch a Creighton workout. They’re all votes of confidence from the franchise, but if you ask the fanbase, all eyes are on last year’s rookie phenom.

After promising turns with the Spanish national team in their FIBA qualifier and the Summer Cs in Sin City, Hugo Gonzalez could be up for a big promotion in his sophomore season.

Despite his last place finish in the poll, there was a spirited debate by a pair of our readers on whether it would be Walsh or Gonzalez:

Maye The Force Be With You: Walsh. I think the other guys improve to some degree as well. But with Walsh the timing is right on a combo of factors:

  • Saw increased opportunity last year and performed with great D and noticeably improved shooting
  • Role/Opportunity: with Jaylen gone and George destined for streets cloths maybe half the year, the need for a 3 & D wing like Walsh is big.
  • Improved shooting: he took more shots and saw bests in FG and 3pt shooting (got over 38% I believe)
  • Age: he’s 22, which surprised me when I was thinking about this exact question a few weeks ago. Given how much NBA action he’s already seen, he has shown he can hang and provide a useful, playable NbA skill, namely elite D. For Joe and Brad, that’s what gets you on the court. And 22 is a prime age for NBA level players to take a major leap.

Ability, timing and opportunity all point to Walsh.

Tenacious D: Gonzlez, as a rookie, performed nearly as well as Walsh in his 3rd year.

HG 74 gp 3.9ppg 47.6 / 36.2 splts 3.3rb 0.5 assts 0.6 stls 0.3 blks
JW 68gp 5.4ppg 50.9 / 38.4 splits 4.0 0.8 0.7 0.5

He flashed improved shooting and playmaking in Euro league and summer league. My money’s on Hugo.

Maye The Force Be With You: Hugo is exciting too and played well. Last year they gave Walsh more minutes and he had a higher EPM, so I just expect they continue to give him a bit more opportunity than Hugo this coming year. If Hugo skyrockets this year, I can see it and I won’t be upset about it either!

The biggest NBA news yesterday was LeBron James joining Brown in the City of Brotherly Love, but our band of brothers on the wing could give them a run for their money in the East. Our friends at FanDuel have the Celtics just behind the 76ers (+390) to win take home the conference crown (+500).

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Yankees news: Warren bumped with rotation crunch looming

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 12: Will Warren #29 of the New York Yankees pitches against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Nationals Park on July 12, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

MLB Trade Rumors | Charlie Wright: The Yankees rearranged their planned starters for this weekend’s series in Philadelphia. Cam Schlittler was bumped up to start Friday on normal rest, with Will Warren pushed back to Sunday. Warren appeared in relief Wednesday to help provide some coverage during a doubleheader. With Max Fried back in the rotation and Carlos Rodón on the comeback trail, Warren’s recent usage suggests his spot in the rotation could be in jeopardy.

MLB.com | Thomas Harrigan: The Yankees have gotten virtually no offensive production from the catcher position this season. With the trade deadline looming, expect them to pursue an upgrade. The most likely candidate is Minnesota’s Ryan Jeffers, a righty bat who’s a free agent after the season. The Athletics’ Shea Langeliers and Colorado’s Hunter Goodman are higher-upside plays with more years of club control, but there’s no guarantee either will be moved. The Mets’ Francisco Alvarez and Baltimore’s Adley Rutschman loom as longshots, with Cincinnati’s Tyler Stephenson and Minnesota’s Victor Caratini less exciting backup plans should the rest fall through.

NJ.com | James Mertz: Paul Blackburn has broken out with the Yankees this year after moving to the bullpen full-time, posting a 2.00 ERA in 35 outings. He attributes the career renaissance in part with the consistency the Yankees have provided. The veteran contrasts that with his tenure with the Mets, who constantly shuttled him between the rotation and the bullpen. “I felt like we were just playing a video game,” he said of his time across town, during which he posted a 6.00 ERA in 12 games.

CBS Sports | Rotowire Staff: Luis Gil faced live batters on Friday for the first time since early May, throwing BP. He’s been on the minor-league IL, working back from right shoulder inflammation. The former Rookie of the Year was disastrous in four starts early this year and has no guaranteed role upon his return.