Future White Sox relief ace Dave Danforth was born on this day, 136 years ago. | (photo by: HUM Images/ Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
1890 Pioneering reliever and spitballer Dave Danforth was born, in Granger, Texas.
A relative rarity as a college-educated (Baylor University) player in the 1910s, Danforth was signed by the A’s in 1911, and while bouncing back and forth between Philadelphia and minor-league Baltimore, Danforth completed a dentistry degree at the University of Maryland.
After two years as a non-practicing dentist/Louisville Colonels minor league hurler in 1914-15, the White Sox signed Danforth for the 1916 season. He made a legendary mark in the bullpen in Chicago’s storied 1917 season: The southpaw led the AL with 50 appearances and all of the majors with 26 finishes and nine saves (he also started nine games, one of them a complete-game shutout). All that added to a value of 3.3 WAR, which still ranks tied for 13th-best in franchise annals.
Oddly though, that was the only one of his four White Sox seasons yielding positive WAR. Manager Kid Gleason hoped to move Danforth into the starting rotation in 1919, but he was crushed for five earned runs in the first inning of his season debut and was shelled in long relief his next game out; he saw only 13 games from there, and no action after July.
The White Sox apparently released Danforth after his -2.9 WAR season in 1919. He made it back to the majors with the Browns, stitching together a strong final four MLB seasons in more of a swingman role, earning 9.3 WAR with St. Louis.
Nicknamed Dauntless Dave for his ability to manage arm pain, Danforth returned to the minors to pitch in seven more seasons, to age 42. After ending his baseball career, Dr. Danforth practiced dentistry in Baltimore until retirement.
1903 Future White Sox coach and manager Kid Gleason was involved in the first intraleague (American-National) league trade ever, after the 1902 peace treaty is struck. Second baseman Gleason went from the Detroit Tigers to New York Giants, in exchange for second baseman-manager Heinie Smith. New York flipped Gleason to Philadelphia, where he was a regular for four more years, until the age of 40.
Gleason coached for the Phillies upon retirement, then had two stints with the White Sox (1912-14, 1916-17). He managed the club from 1919-23, having the unfortunate timing of being a rookie manager overseeing the Black Sox scandal.
Coincidentally, 21 years after this trade and just five after the Black Sox scandal, the manager of the Cincinnati Reds club that upended the White Sox in 1919, Pat Moran, died from Bright’s disease, at the age of 48 and while still Cincinnati’s active manager.
1953 The White Sox brought back pitcher Earl Harrist for a second tour on the South Side, and it turned out to be significantly less successful than his first.
Harrist had a mildly-successful season back in 1947, pitching to a 3.56 ERA (103 ERA+), going 3-8 but earning five saves. He was traded to Washington during the 1948 season.
After then moving to the Yankees and Browns organizations, the White Sox bought Harrist from St. Louis with the intent of using him late in games (he’d matched his 1947 career high of five saves with the Browns in 1952). However, Harrist was simply awful this time around with the White Sox, ballooning to a 7.56 ERA in just seven appearances before the club cut him loose on May 23.
Detroit grabbed him and gave Harrist another eight games, but despite laboring until 1958 in the minors, the righty would never see the major leagues again.
1959 Bill Veeck and his partners (including Hall-of-Famer Hank Greenberg), officially announced they had bought the White Sox. Veeckowned 54% of the team, with Chuck Comiskey retaining his 46%.
At the introductory press conference, Veeckjokingly told the media that “you can have 54% of the coffee!”
It was remarkable timing for the new owners, who steered the White Sox to their first AL pennant in 40 years, finishing 94-60-2.
2011 The Arizona Diamondbacks hosted the White Sox in their old spring training ballpark (Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium in Tucson), with the proceeds benefiting a fund in memory of Christina Taylor Green, the granddaughter of baseball executive Dallas Green. Christina was one of six murdered in a shooting spree on January 8, at a town hall meeting with U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords at a supermarket near Tucson.
The young Green, born on Sept. 11, 2001, was a Little League player (following the footsteps of her minor league pitcher father and ex-MLB pitcher grandpa) and a student leader. She was at the Giffords gathering to observe government in action.
The result of the game hardly mattered, but the White Sox won, 12-1, with Edwin Jackson earning the decision.
Feb 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) celebrates a shot against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Bristol, Connecticut native Donovan Clingan was a centerpiece of two national championship teams as a UConn Husky. He was the nation’s best backup big man in 2023 and a two-way destroyer on the 2024 title team. The 7-foot-2 center averaged 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game in his last college season before being picked 7th overall in the NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
After a solid rookie year (6.5 PPG, 8.0 RPG), Clingan is taking the next step in his second pro season. The 22-year-old is averaging 11.8 points and 11.5 rebounds on 52.6 percent shooting, earning himself a spot in the Blazers’ starting lineup.
Clingan’s rebounds per game put him third in the league behind stars like Karl-Anthony Towns (11.8) and Nikola Jokic (12.6). He’s doing it in just 27.4 minutes per game, while Jokic and Towns each play over 30 minutes per contest. Clingan also averages 1.5 blocks per game, putting him inside the top-10, and a solid 2.5 assists per game. He was always a solid passer with the Huskies.
Several performances this season highlight Clingan’s progress. On Jan. 3, he put up a career high 24 points along with 12 rebounds, helping the Blazers take down a Finals-contending San Antonio Spurs team. Clingan shot an efficient 3-for-5 from downtown in the win, something we never would have seen from him in a UConn jersey.
Though he showed that he can hit it, Clingan only hit two in college. He has developed a respectable three-point threat for a center since entering the league. He made 14 from beyond the arc on 28.6%. This year, he’s up to 63 threes in 187 attempts, good for 34%.
The big man had a dominant month of February, averaging 14.3 points and 13 boards per contest.
Feb. 12 saw Clingan put up 23 points and 18 rebounds against the Jazz. He followed up the stellar night with another 23 points and 13 rebounds against Phoenix. Other notable performances in February include one rebound shy of a 20-20 game against Memphis, a 16 rebound game against Minnesota, and a 13 point, 17 rebound performance against the Grizzlies.
During the All-Star break, Clingan was selected for the Rising Stars challenge. The format was tournament style, featuring rookies, sophomores, and G-League players as well, with teams coached by former NBA stars. Clingan was picked by Team Melo. He scored a team-high nine points in the first game and went to the championship game, scoring six points in a finals loss to Team Vince.
February was a momentous month off the court for Clingan as well, as he proposed to his high school sweetheart, Madeline Ross. Dan Hurley provided some simple advice for Clingan when he heard the news of the engagement.
This season has included learning moments. Just two games ago, Clingan was ejected for the first time in his career. Late in the second quarter against Memphis, the big man had the ball at the top of the key. He used his elbow to gain space and caught defender Olivier Maxence-Prosper, a former Marquette star, in the face. Officials reviewed the play and called it a flagrant 2, an automatic ejection.
The Blazers’ most recent game was a close 106-99 loss to Houston. Clingan finished the night with 18 points and 13 rebounds, shooting 7-for-11. He picked up his 25th double-double Friday night, tying him for 10th in the league in the category.
Clingan and his team are now pushing for a postseason appearance. The Trail Blazers are 30-34, holding the 10th spot in the Western Conference, 5.5 games ahead of 11th place and just 8 games out of a top-6 seed. For Clingan, meaningful basketball brings familiar territory. The former Husky built his reputation in March and is looking to do so in the NBA.
The shorthanded Golden State Warriors travel to Paycom Center to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday.
Oklahoma City’s elite defensive unit will stifle the Dubs, and my Warriors vs. Thunder predictions expect Chet Holmgren to lead the charge as the home team earns a comfortable win.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this primetime Western Conference showdown on Saturday, March 7.
Warriors vs Thunder prediction
Warriors vs Thunder best bet: Chet Holmgren Over 27.5 points + rebounds (-112)
Chet Holmgren has been on a tear, and with Isaiah Hartenstein sidelined, I expect him to continue his strong play against a depleted Warriors frontcourt at home.
Holmgren has averaged 27.9 points + rebounds in 24 games without Hartenstein, hitting the Over on this line 13 times.
Over his last six games, Holmgren has averaged 16.3 points and 12.2 rebounds, averaging 16 points and 18 boards in his last two home games. He’s reached the Over in four of his last five home games and delivered 28+ points + rebounds in all three matchups with the Golden State Warriors.
Warriors vs Thunder same-game parlay
The Oklahoma City Thunder are just 15-16 ATS at home, but Golden State are 13-17 ATS on the road. Golden State is missing a number of key players, while Oklahoma City still has the reigning MVP and a deep cast of talented defenders.
The Warriors have scored 103 points or fewer in 15 games this season, and five of those have come across their last 12 games. Oklahoma City held Golden State to under 103 points in two of three head-to-head matchups this season, and the NBA's top defensive rating should be able to do it again at home.
Cason Wallace is averaging 2.3 steals + blocks this season, including 2.6 at home. Across his last six at home, Wallace has averaged 3.4 steals + blocks and hit the Over on this line five times.
Warriors vs Thunder SGP
Chet Holmgren Over 27.5 points + rebounds
Oklahoma City Thunder -14.5
Golden State Warriors Under 103.5 points
Cason Wallace Over 2.5 steals + blocks
Warriors vs Thunder odds
Spread: Golden State +14.5 (-110) | Oklahoma City -14.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Golden State +550 | Oklahoma City -800
Over/Under: Over 220.5 (-110) | Under 220.5 (-110)
Warriors vs Thunder betting trend to know
The Oklahoma City Thunder have hit the Team Total Under in 11 of their last 14 games at home (+7.60 Units / 48% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Warriors vs. Thunder.
How to watch Warriors vs Thunder
Location
Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
Date
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Tip-off
8:30 p.m. ET
TV
ABC
Warriors vs Thunder latest injuries
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HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 06: Aaron Judge #99 of the United States celebrates after hitting a two run home run during the first inning against Brazil during the 2026 World Baseball Classic Pool B game between the United States and Brazil at Daikin Park on March 06, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Diamondbacks News
Kevin Ginkel Eyeing Health, Another Postseason Kevin Ginkel’s 2025 season was ruined by injuries. Now, the Arizona reliever is back and looking to improve upon his 2025 results and help lead Arizona to a return to October baseball.
Diamondbacks, Carroll Give Injury Update Diamondbacks star Corbin Carroll took three at-bats off live pitching at Salt River Fields on Friday, March 6, his first time hitting at game-like intensity since undergoing surgery last month for a broken hamate bone in his right hand.
Struggling Drake Gets Nod Versus Giants Left-handed starter, Kohl Drake, will try to get his spring on track after a rough start to training. The lefty will be starting against the Giants this afternoon.
Judge, Team USA Plate 15 in Rout of Brazil This wasn’t even David and Goliath. This was more like David’s charismatic little sibling who didn’t even know what a slingshot was. It did not go well for Brazil.
Skubal, Tigers Have Had No Contract Talks The Tigers and Tarik Skubal have not entered into any sort of contract negotiations since the team and player exchanged arbitration numbers. Skubal insists that no conversations will happen during the season, paving the way for his exit from the Motor City this coming winter.
The Philadelphia Flyers have made some roster moves ahead of their matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday.
The Flyers have announced that they have recalled forward Alex Bump from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. In addition, they shared that defenseman Adam Ginning has been assigned back to Lehigh Valley.
Bump getting called up is notable, as he is one of the Flyers' most exciting prospects. The 2022 fifth-round pick has played in 36 games this season with the Phantoms, where he has recorded 11 goals, 15 assists, and 26 points. Now, he will be getting his first chance on the Flyers' roster.
As for Ginning, the left-shot defenseman has played in five games this season with the Flyers, where he has zero points and an even plus/minus rating. Down in the AHL with Lehigh Valley, he has posted one goal, four points, 20 penalty minutes, and a minus-7 rating in 31 games.
‘It was all about making sure we fired the first shot’
Gregor Townsend hails ‘brilliant day for our supporters’
Kyle Steyn said the key to his side’s stunning 50-40 Six Nations victory over France on Saturday was striking first. The 32-year-old was named man of the match after he and his fellow wing Darcy Graham scored two tries each in a match they actually led 47-14 at one point.
That would have been a record Scottish victory over France but instead Steyn and his teammates had to settle for a highest ever score after outscoring France by seven tries to six.
The Buffalo Sabres made a handful of additions leading up to the 2026 NHL trade deadline. It is not difficult to understand why the Sabres added to their depth, as they are in a prime position to get back into the playoffs for the first time since 2011.
The Sabres tried to make a blockbuster trade for Colton Parayko, but the St. Louis Blues star defenseman blocked the move. After that, the Sabres made some solid depth additions that have the potential to give them a boost.
One specific trade addition who has the potential to be a good pickup for the Sabres is forward Sam Carrick. The Sabres acquired him from the New York Rangers in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. While this is not a major move, it was a sneaky good one for Buffalo.
With this trade, the Sabres have added a solid bottom-six center who throws the body, kills penalties, and has success at the faceoff dot. With this, he is the kind of hard-nosed player that a team prepping for the playoffs should be looking to add.
Carrick will also be more than a rental for the Sabres, too, as he is signed until the end of next season with a $1 million cap hit. This is not a bad thing in the slightest.
In 60 games this season with the Rangers before being acquired by Buffalo, Carrick had four goals, 10 points, 86 hits, and a 53.9 winning faceoff percentage.
FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 24: Kevin Cash of the Boston Red Sox poses during photo day at the Red Sox spring training complex on February 24, 2008 in Fort Myers, Florida. (Photo by: Nick Laham/Getty Images) | Getty Images
A legendary legacy.
First pitch against the Boston Red Sox is at 1:05 at JetBlue Park and the Rays will be providing TV and radio coverage.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are on the road today against the Detroit Tigers looking to grab a win.
Please remember our Game Day thread guidelines.
Don’t troll in your comments; create conversation rather than destroying it
Remember Bucs Dugout is basically a non-profanity site
Out of respect to broadcast partners who have paid to carry the game, no mentions of “alternative” (read: illegal) viewing methods are allowed in our threads
The commenting system was updated during the summer. They’re still working on optimizing it for Game Day Threads like ours. If you don’t like clicking “Load More Comments”, remember that the “Z” key can be your friend. It loads up the latest comments automatically.
BD community, this is your thread for today’s game. Enjoy!
Feb 17, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets pitcher Kodai Senga (34) works in the bullpen during spring training at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Mets lineup
Mike Tauchman – RF
Jorge Polanco – DH
Bo Bichette – 3B
Brett Baty – 1B
Luis Torrens – C
Ronny Mauricio – SS
Jose Rojas – LF
Cristian Pache – CF
Jackson Cluff – 2B
Kodai Senga – RHP
Cardinals lineup
Masyn Winn – SS
Alec Burleson – 1B
Ivan Herrera – DH
Nolan Gorman – 3B
JJ Wetherholt – 2B
Pedro Pages – C
Joshua Baez – RF
Victor Scott – CF
Miguel Ugueto – LF
Kyle Leahy – RHP
Broadcast Info
First pitch: 1:05 PM EST TV: Cardinals – Matrix Midwest, Cardinals.TV Radio: Cardinals – KMOX 1120 AM/104.1 FM, Cardinals Radio Network
One of the more surprising moments from the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline was that the Vancouver Canucks did not trade Teddy Blueger. Leading up to the deadline, reports indicated that there was interest in the 31-year-old center, but at the end of the day, he was not moved. With the trade deadline now complete and Blueger still on the roster, the Canucks should shift their focus to ensure he stays with the organization past this season.
Blueger is at the end of a two-year contract which carries a cap hit of $1.8 million. While he has missed significant time with injury this season, the 2026 Olympian has found ways to step up when he is in the lineup. Over his 15 games, Blueger has collected nine points while throwing 34 hits.
While Blueger is a bottom-six center, he brings plenty of experience and leadership to the organization. He won a Stanley Cup in 2023 with the Vegas Golden Knights and has 433 games of NHL experience under his belt. As mentioned, Blueger also represented his country at the 2026 Winter Olympics and has extensive international experience playing for Latvia throughout his career.
Blueger has also shared publicy that he enjoys playing in Vancouver. Prior to the trade deadline, he told Sportsnet's Iain MacIntyre, "We'd love to stay. We love the city." Considering where the organization is in the standings and everything that has happened over the past few years, Blueger's desire to stay shows a level of commitement that the Canuck should take seriously.
The question now is, what would a contract extension look like for Blueger? Based on recent contracts signed and the cap continuing to climb, a possible extension could be three years with a cap hit of $2.5 million. This would give Blueger a well-deserved raise while also keeping him around the organization for the first few years of the rebuild.
Mar 6, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Vancouver Canucks center Teddy Blueger (53) celebrates with teammates after scoring against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
If Blueger still expresses a desire to stay in Vancouver, the organization needs to ensure they re-sign him before July 1. He leads by example on and off the ice, which is what the Canucks need as they begin this multi-year rebuild. With no need to focus on trades for the next few months, Vancouver's attention should shift to ensuring that Blueger remains in a Canucks jersey for the foreaeeable future.
Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.
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DUNEDIN, FL - MARCH 02: Boston Red Sox pitcher Johan Oviedo (29) throws a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays on March 2, 2026, at TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Florida. (Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Is it on TV?
Yes, after a one-day break from spring training coverage, the Sox are back on the air. You can catch the game on either NESN360 or over the air on WHDH, first pitch at 1:05 PM.
What’s the lineup?
What should we watch for?
It’s Johan Oviedo’s third start, which means we can start drawing more meaningful conclusions from his performances. The thing to keep an eye on this spring in his case is his control. He had three walks in his first start and generally appeared to be nibbling around the plate. But he attacked hitters more directly in his second start and didn’t issue a single free pass.
And check it out: a Miguel Bleis sighting! Suffice it say some of his prospect shine has dulled, but he’s still young and worth keeping an eye on.
NORTH PORT, FL - MARCH 04: Michael Harris II #23 of the Atlanta Braves looks on during the game between the Team Columbia and the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 in North Port, Florida. (Photo by Grace Hoppel/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Well the Braves are missing a few players to the WBC, but the rest of the squad keeps chugging through the Spring Training schedule and we have gotten to see some fun prospect performances.
Today they take on the Orioles and the young top 100 prospect, lefty Luis De Leon.
Both the Orlando Magic and the Minnesota Timberwolves are playing their fourth game this week, so there may be some fatigue at the early 3:00 p.m. ET tip.
But my Magic vs. Timberwolves predictions and these NBA picks see value in Minnesota’s depth on Saturday, March 7.
Magic vs Timberwolves prediction
Magic vs Timberwolves best bet: Ayo Dosunmu Over 11.5 points (+100)
The Minnesota Timberwolves stumbled their way into bench depth, now turning to Naz Reid, Ayo Dosunmu, and Kyle Anderson as their first three reserves, with Mike Conley and Joan Beringer adding variable pieces.
But Anderson is listed as questionable against the Orlando Magic, and the Timberwolves’ rotation may be knocked off kilter again.
If Anderson’s minutes are at all reduced, that should lean to more for Dosunmu, who has already cleared this prop in his last two games, three of his last four, and six of his 10 games with Minnesota.
Magic vs Timberwolves same-game parlay
Dosunmu has hit multiple threes in just one of his last eight games, yet he has cleared this points prop in five of those eight games.
His best impact for Minnesota is in driving to the hoop, particularly in transition. Those drives helped this exact same-game parlay cash twice in the last eight games.
Magic vs Timberwolves SGP
Ayo Dosunmu Over 11.5 points
Ayo Dosunmu Under 1.5 threes
Timberwolves -6.5
Our "from downtown" SGP: Timberwolves Set The Terms
The Timberwolves have cashed the Under in each of their last four games, their defense aided by identifying offensive wrinkles and thus slowing opponents’ transition opportunities.
Magic vs Timberwolves SGP
Ayo Dosunmu Over 11.5 points
Ayo Dosunmu Under 1.5 threes
Timberwolves -6.5
Under 224.5
Magic vs Timberwolves odds
Spread: Magic +6.5 | Timberwolves -6.5
Moneyline: Magic +220 | Timberwolves -270
Over/Under: Over 224.5 | Under 224.5
Magic vs Timberwolves betting trend to know
Minnesota’s last four games have all gone Under their totals and by an average of 17 points per game. Find more NBA betting trends for Magic vs. Timberwolves.
How to watch Magic vs Timberwolves
Location
Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
Date
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Tip-off
3:00 p.m. ET
TV
Prime Video
Magic vs Timberwolves latest injuries
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Welcome to Inside the Suns, your weekly deep-down analysis of the current Phoenix Suns team. Each week the Fantable — a round table of Bright Siders — give their takes on the Suns’ latest issues and news.
Fantable Questions of the Week
Q1: Some fans are adamant in their belief that the Suns will not be able to significantly improve the team in the near future without trading away some of their better players to obtain more draft picks and/or younger players with higher potential for growth. Do you agree or disagree with this?
GuarGuar: We are very limited with our assets, so if we are gonna improve this team, it’s either through internal development or trading our current players. I’d like to see if this group can make the playoffs and do some damage first before leaning either way on what to do, but the only real moves we can make are player trades this offseason.
Diamondhacks: It’s difficult to ‘significantly improve’ and more difficult to pull it off two years in a row, irrespective of rebuilds or resets conjured from the confines of adamant fans’ basements. Many theoretical strands inform that difficulty, under an umbrella perhaps too broadly labeled “regression”.
Yes, the Suns are the ninth oldest roster (basketball reference) but also feature physically promising novices and, as this above .500 season illustrates, there are unexpected paths toward ‘significant improvement’. It’s just that once you get there, fueled largely by moxie, there are typically more paths toward everything else, regardless of anyone’s best laid plans.
Ashton: I assume that is a question on Jalen Green’s trade return value. I have already put myself on the record within previous Fantable discussions. I would support Green’s development around a solid starting five.
But, as a nod to some commentators, I would not take him off the trade table until I am actually able to see Green’s value with a starting lineup and what role he is actually expected to play. Facilitator? Driver?
Or he recently just tried to put the Suns team on his shoulders and failed miserably at it. Let’s just see what he does with starter-caliber players.
Beyond that? What? Mark Williams is in a bit of a slump, but still respect that he shows up to basically every single game. I did not expect that. And no poster would trade Brooks and his technical fouls.
Suns just need to secure MW and CG contracts.
OldAz: Dunn was a late first, Fleming was an early 2nd. I have often said that the NBA draft is a total crap shoot and a team’s commitment to developing young players has always been more important. For years, the Suns have been terrible at this, while teams like the Miami Heat have often had multiple undrafted free agents contributing to winning.
With the success of players like Colin Gillespie and Jamaree Bouyea, along with the developmental focus applied to Oso, Dunn, Fleming, and Maluach give me a lot of hope that the Suns now get this. If so, then getting more or better draft picks is less important than hitting on those picks they do have and maximizing the minimum signing made to fill out the team.
Trading established players just for picks is just not a path I am a fan of. Maybe I will be more in favor of this path once they prove to be successful (on a sustained basis) in developing that drafted talent.
Rod: As John Voita pointed out a few days ago, Brian Gregory has already done a really good job rebuilding/retooling the Suns since his arrival and I don’t expect him to suddenly lose his knack or finding hidden/overlooked treasures. While there is no guarantee that he will continue to be as successful in the future, that in itself is no reason to suddenly shift coarse and head off in a different direction.
Their success this year has largely been due to how well they’ve functioned as a team rather than relying upon any one or two players to carry the majority of the load. They’re maybe one or two pieces away from becoming an even better team and I think it makes more sense to ride this strategy out for at least another year, especially since one of those missing pieces (PF) may already be on the team (Fleming).
Q2: Dillon Brooks is expected to be out until at least March 28 and possibly even two weeks more than that. If it’s left up to him to make the decision, what’s your best guess at when he’ll return?
GuarGuar: I think he will return right before the regular season ends. I’m expecting an early April start back from him as it’s his off hand, not his shooting hand. He’s a competitor, and when he heals enough that playing isn’t a risk of reinjury, he will immediately be back. He’s too competitive.
Diamondhacks: This question has several parts, none of which capitalize on my catalog of imagined insights. I’m not an orthopedist, nor do I understand what makes Dillon tick. Perhaps someone more sold on Brooks might speak to his “return policy”?
Ashton: Oh, this is an easy question.
Brooks will enter the regular season two games before the Play-In or playoff designation for the NBA teams.
He can grab two more technicals and have it all wiped out on post season. He will use them. Unless he breaks his hand again.
OldAz: Since this question was asked before Friday’s news, but published after, I would say it will be about 2 days later than Dillon Brooks “decides”. In answer to the question, if it is solely left up to him, he will be back as soon as possible and even declare himself ready a few games early just so he can serve whatever suspension the league hands down. I believe it will probably be close to the March 28th date to give him 9 games or so to get back into game shape and ready for any playoff run. Players always want to play, regardless of the health questions. This is especially true when it comes to playoff time.
Rod: My impression of Brooks leads me to believe that he’ll be back sooner rather than later, and he’ll probably be pushing the medical staff to clear him even before March 28. There was a scene in Black Hawk Down in which the soldiers were preparing to head back into Mogadishu and one guy with a broken arm ripped off his cast before returning to the fight with his buddies. I just get that kind of vibe from Brooks and feel as though it’s going to be hard to keep off the court any longer than is absolutely necessary.
Q3: Who do you consider to be the most undervalued Suns player by the fans?
GuarGuar: This is a tough question. I’m not quite sure who we underrate in this fanbase exactly, but I’ll go with Royce O’Neale. Yes, his defense is really bad at times, and he can be a liability when the shot isn’t falling. But it’s super valuable to have a stretch forward with deep catch and shoot range, and isn’t lacking confidence. Not to mention he’s shooting a great percentage, too. He’s experienced and brings some stability to this team night in and night out, and fits really well offensively next to Booker.
Diamondhacks: Despite an alarming performance drop-off, I’d say fans’ most undervalued Sun over the entire season is still Mark Williams, whose most verifiable sin to date is miserably failing to be Hakeem Olajuwon. Instead, all this lethargic disappointment’s managed to cobble together is to lead the entire team in Win Shares, Offensive Rating, Defensive Rating, and get to the line more per FG attempt than anyone not named Booker. Oh, and he’s our best offensive rebounder and best defensive rebounder, by sheer volume and rate (TRB%), and gets more steals per minute than Brooks, Booker, or Fleming.
But to hear some, Mark needs to make way more angry faces, bark like a dog, and take three times as many bad shots – like their intrepid hero, Dillon Brooks – to be considered anywhere quite so central to our success.
Ashton: Probably the one person I have not commented on a lot is Rasheer TyLee Fleming. The fans like him, but he was in a seven-team trade involving the Wolves. That is seven teams that took a pass, except the Suns.
A second round pick out of A-10s conference, and raise your hand if you watched Saint Joseph’s, he also gained conference accolades…
You know let me just wiki it.
“He was named First Team All-Atlantic 10 after averaging 14.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.”
And this is why NBA hoop heads (Word tried to auto-correct me to hop-heads. Not wrong based on game chat conversations) should pay attention to the college game and the draft picks. Even if the Suns do not have a pick in the first round, it is worth monitoring on future player trades.
OldAz: Currently, it is Mark Williams, but then again, the starting center always seems to be undervalued by this fanbase. We also tend to fall in love with the backup, and build them up in our minds to be the second coming of Kareem or Bill Russell. Everyone wants to see counting stats from the center, but that is not how modern basketball works. Because of this Fans clamor for 5 players who can put up the most individual stats, when in reality the most important thing is how the team performs.
As long as the Suns are going to play so small, they need a center like Williams to anchor the middle and allow Oso to be a main hub with the bench unit. Neither of their counting stats are going to get them in the All-NBA conversation, but their contributions to winning are vital. That’s all that matters to me.
Rod: I’m going with Royce O’Neale on this one. He’s been asked to play out of position all season long and, while it hasn’t been a roaring success, it hasn’t been a dismal failure either. Royce has had his good moments and his bad, but he’s soldiered on without a complaint. I think he’s been a good teammate and mentor to some of the younger guys too. Just the fact that Jordan Ott trusts him in the role he plays also says a lot to me. Say whatever you want about him but he’s led the Suns in total minutes played this season (1808) which isn’t bad for the team’s “old guy”.
As always, many thanks to our Fantable members for all their extra effort this week!
Quotes of the Week
“The biggest thing for me when I’m out there is just to remind myself to have fun. It’s basketball at the end of the day. That kind of relieves any thoughts I’m thinking about, if I’m worried about making any mistakes.” – Rasheer Fleming
“He (Rasheer Fleming) works hard every day and I think you’re going to see more and more each time that he steps on the floor.” – Jalen Green
I feel like it’s coming back slowly but surely. That’s all part of it. People been talking about missing shots and that’s all just part of it. Just got to keep shooting.” – Jalen Green
“We’ve focused on winning in the margins this year. Doing all the little things over the course of a whole season led to getting some good wins. Happy with where we’re at, but I think we’ve shown that we kind of belong. So we need to win some more games.” – Grayson Allen
“Nothing better than playing basketball, man. It’s tough watching.” – Devin Booker
“He’s (Khaman Maluach) been thrown into the fire at a young age. He can do nothing but grow from here.” – Devin Booker
Suns Trivia/History
On March 8, 2020, Ricky Rubio had his second triple-double of the season (25 pts, 13 rebs & 13 asts) in possibly his best game as a Sun as Phoenix beat the Milwaukee Bucks 140-131. The Suns had four players who scored 20+ points in the game (Rubio 25, Booker 36, Mikal Bridges 21 & Aron Baynes 24) plus two more in double figures (Dario Saric 11 & Jevon Carter 12).
On March 9, 2003, three-time All-Star “Thunder Dan” Majerle was placed in the Phoenix Suns’ Ring of Honor. Majerle played 8 seasons for the Suns, 7 at the beginning of his NBA career, and the 8th was his last in the league following stints in Cleveland (1 season) and Miami (5 seasons). He averaged 13.5 pts, 4.7 rebs, 3.1 asts, and 1.4 steals per game for the Suns and hit 36.4% from three for the Suns and is 11th on the Suns’ All-Time leaders in points scored (8,034), 5th in steals (811), and 3rd in three-pointers made (800).
On March 11, 2008, Shaq cleared the Suns’ bench while going after a loose ball.
On March 12, 2020, the NBA suspended the season due to the coronavirus pandemic. The season would not resume until July in the Orlando “bubble” where the Suns would go 8-0 and just barely miss making the playoffs/play-in tournament.
On March 14, 2007, the 49-14 Suns met the 52-10 Dallas Mavericks in a match-up where both teams were fighting for the top seed in the Western conference and Steve Nash was going for his third consecutive MVP award against Dirk Nowitzki. Though the Suns won the game in double overtime, the Mavericks would finish with the West’s top seed at 67-15, and Nowitzki would narrowly win the MVP award over of Nash.
This Week’s Game Schedule
Sunday, March 8 – Suns vs Charlotte Hornets (8:00 pm) Peacock Tuesday, March 10 – Suns @ Milwaukee Bucks (6:00 pm) Thursday, March 12 – Suns @ Indiana Pacers (5:00 pm) Friday, March 13 – Suns @ Toronto Raptors (5:30 pm)
This Week’s Valley Suns Game Schedule
Saturday, March 7 – Valley Suns @ Rip City Remix (4:00 pm) Monday, March 9 – Valley Suns @ Wisconsin Herd (5:30 pm) Prime Video Thursday, March 12 – Valley Suns @ Windy City Bulls (6:00 pm)
Important Future Dates
March 28 – NBA G League Regular Season ends March 31 – 2026 NBA G League Playoffs begin April 12 – Regular season ends (All 30 teams play) April 13 – Rosters set for NBA Playoffs 2026 (3 p.m. ET) April 14-17 – SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament April 18 – NBA Playoffs begin
