SAN ANTONIO, TX - MAY 24: Jacob Tobey performs the national anthem before the game between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game Four of the NBA Western Conference Finals on May 24, 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 Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Spurs television play-by-play announcer Jacob Tobey signed an extension to remain in San Antonio for the foreseeable future. The multitalented television personality made the announcement via social media.
Iâm excited to announce that I signed a multi-year extension to stay with the Spurs (on the âłïžđ). I love this city! pic.twitter.com/HGBN3oVF6H
Tobey, who just completed his second season with the Silver & Black, replaced long-time play-by-play announcer Bill Land. Land announced his retirement ahead of the 2024-2025 season after announcing his battle with cancer. Both paired well with Spurs legend and color analyst Sean Elliott.
Elliott praised Tobey via social media.
Well deserved Strong Oak. You have grown into your role so well, and I hope you have that seat for many years to come. It is a joy working with you. Those national anthems got you the new deal BTW. https://t.co/pWwGN26CEC
âWell deserved Strong Oak. You have grown into your role so well, and I hope you have that seat for many years to come. It is a joy working with you. Those national anthems got you the new deal BTW.â
Elliott also referenced Tobeyâs multiple presentations of the national anthem, which showcased his singing talent. The Massachusetts native has been performing at multiple local venues throughout his tenure in the Alamo City and has gained quite a following for his interpretations of modern hits as well as his beautifully crafted original compositions.
This season, the NBA brought in national commentating teams for each round of the postseason, ending a longstanding tradition of having the local markers cover the first round of the playoffs. Tobey, undeterred, created a postgame show with the Spurs. He created a postgame show with guests to discuss the outcome of each game.
In addition to his Spurs duties and musical endeavors, Tobey emcees Spurs events, most recently, the NBA Cares presentation during the NBA Finals. Throughout his time in San Antonio, he has been tapped by multiple shows and podcasts to speak about the Spurs.
Tobeyâs laid an impressive foundation in broadcasting With his youth, vigor, charm, and good looks, the sky is the limit and his future remains bright. The Spurs were fortunate to have caught him on the rise, just like the core of their team. A great pairing for years to come.
Congratulations, Jacob.
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There was no game last night, which was weird. Having Brazil playing a World Cup game in Philadelphia will do that to a city, but hey, at least there wonât be any strange days off for a while.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 19: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays walks off after flying out during the sixth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on June 19, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
You just canât come up with enough superlatives to describe Cam Schlittler. The flame throwing righty struck out a career-high 13 batters in the series opener against the Reds to widen his lead in the AL Cy Young race. His six scoreless innings and home runs by Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Ben Rice proved the catalysts in the Yankeesâ 5-0 series opening win in the Bronx as they look to win all four series on this lengthy homestand.
The Rays, Blue Jays, Guardians, and Mariners all took the field on a beautiful Friday, so letâs see how those games shook out.
Tampa Bay Rays (42-30) 5, Washington Nationals (39-37) 2
After getting swept in three games at Chavez Ravine, the Rays received a reprieve returning home to host the Nationalsâ second-worst pitching staff in the majors. The Griffin Jax starting pitching experiment has been largely successful and that continued tonight, the Raysâ converted reliever allowing two runs on four hits and no walks with five strikeouts in five innings. The Nationals meanwhile tried to take a page out of the Raysâ book by starting with an opener â something that has generally mitigated Miles Mikolasâ struggles as he pitches as the piggyback bulk reliever. It didnât tonight, the former Cardinal allowing five hits on nine runs in six innings.
Washington actually jumped out to a 2-0 lead early courtesy of solo home runs from CJ Abrams and Luis GarcĂa Jr., the former to lead off the second and the latter coming with two outs in the third, while their opener PJ Poulin allowed just a single in the first two innings. However, things turned south the moment Mikolas entered the game to start the third. He walked Hunter Feduccia and allowed a Yandy DĂaz single, both with one out, to set up a three-run homer off the left foul pole from Jonathan Aranda.
The Rays then tacked on insurance runs in the fourth and the eighth. In the fourth, Taylor Walls singled Richie Palacios home after the latter reached on a one out double. Jonny DeLuca wrapped up the scoring by going yard to lead off the eighth as the Rays remained within three games of the Yankees for first.
Other Games
Chicago Cubs (40-36) 16, Toronto Blue Jays (37-39) 2
The Blue Jays had to feel good coming off a three-game sweep of the Red Sox at Fenway, but those smiles were promptly wiped off their faces with a drubbing in the series opener at Wrigley. The Cubs put up 16 runs on three crooked numbers â seven in the first, four in the sixth, and five in the seventh. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays managed just two runs both courtesy of George Springer on an RBI single in the third and home run to lead off the sixth.
The Cubs sent 12 batters to the plate in the first. Pete Crow-Armstrong, Alex Bregman, Ian Happ, and Matt Shaw all drew walks and Seiya Suzuki clubbed a two run double. Carson Kelly demolished a grand slam followed by three straight two out singles from Dansby Swanson, PCA, and Bregman. By the time the dust had settled, there was a seven-spot on the board all charged to Kevin Gausman, who lasted just two innings.
Reliever Brendon Little was the victim of the Cubsâ four runs in the sixth. Kelly and Swanson drew back-to-back walks with the bases loaded, PCA hit and RBI single, and Bregman an RBI ground out. Tyler Rogers then gave up five runs in the seventh, though all were unearned thanks to a fielding error by Davis Schneider at second. The inning quickly unraveled for Rogers as he gave up a walk, four singles, and a triple by Justin Dean with the bases loaded. Outfielder Myles Straw was actually one of their more effective pitcher as he converted the final four outs of the contest without giving up another run.
Tatsuya Imai logged one of his best starts in an Astros uniform, striking out 11 across six innings of three-run ball. All three of those runs came in the third on an RBI double by Brayan Rocchio and a two-run homer from Rhys Hoskins. Jeremy Peña and Jose Altuve had the big days on offense for Houston Peña went 3-for-5 with a pair of solo home runs and an RBI single while Altuve went 2-for-4 with an RBI double and the most impactful hit of the game, a three-run homer in the sixth.
Boston Red Sox (30-43) 6, Seattle Mariners (39-38) 2
We had a good old fashioned pitchersâ duel between Ranger Suarez and Bryce Miller. Miller gave the Mariners five strong innings allowing a run on three hits to go with seven strikeouts. However, it was Suarez who impressed the most, carrying a no-hitter into the seventh inning before a double and two walks swiftly ended his outing at 6.1 scoreless. Caleb Durbin was the standout performer on offense for the Red Sox, going 3-for-4 with a double and a solo home run. Marcelo Mayer wasnât that far behind him going 2-for-4 with three driven in. Boston scored four of their six runs in the seventh. A Julio RodrĂguez two-run homer in the ninth averted the shutout, but in the end they were just a pair of consolation runs.
The Detroit Tigers opened up their three-game home series against the Chicago White Sox with a 4-3 win on Friday night. Tarik Skubal ran into some trouble in his second start after returning from the injured list, but the offense had just enough oomph and the bullpen served up 3 1/3 innings of one-hit ball to secure their first win against the ChiSox this season in four tries.
On Saturday afternoon, right-hander Troy Melton will climb the hill for the home team seeking a bounce-back after his worst outing this year. The 25-year-old was shelled by the Minnesota Twins in his previous start, surrendering four runs â all four scored on solo home runs â on eight hits but zero walks while striking out five over five frames in a game in which he still earned the win thanks to the offense in a 10-4 final.
Melton looked good the last time he saw the White Sox this season, earning a quality start for his seven innings of one-run ball on six hits and a walk while striking out just one in a game the Tigers ultimately lost in extras, 4-3. Hopefully, he can bring his A-game again and help his team clinch a series victory.
No starter for Saturdayâs game has been announced as of the time of writing. Take a look at Meltonâs pitching summary below in the meantime.
Detroit Tigers (31-44) vs. Chicago White Sox (39-35)
Time (ET): 1:10 p.m. Place: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan SB Nation Site:South Side Sox Media: Detroit SportsNet, MLB.TV, Tigers Radio Network
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 11: NBA draft prospect, Otega Oweh poses for a portrait during the 2026 NBA Draft Combine on May 11, 2026 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
With Kentuckyâs roster essentially set for the upcoming season, many fans have turned their focus to the 2026 NBA Draft. Two former Wildcats, Jayden Quaintance and Otega Oweh, are hoping to hear their names called next week.
Where Experts Predict Jayden Quaintance Will Be Drafted
Despite playing only four games at Kentucky because of a knee injury, Quaintance is still expected to be a first-round pick. His combination of size, athleticism, and defensive potential has kept him firmly on NBA radars.
Here is where some analysts have Quaintance being selected:
ESPNâs Jeremy Woo called Quaintance an âobvious first-round talentâ if healthy.
The biggest question surrounding Quaintance is his health. Scouts love his defensive upside, shot-blocking ability, length, and athleticism, but teams will want confidence that his knee has fully recovered before investing a first-round pick.
Where Experts Predict Otega Oweh Will Be Drafted
Owehâs draft outlook is less certain, with most projections placing him late in the second round. Some analysts believe he could also go undrafted and earn an opportunity through the NBA Summer League.
Here is where major draft analysts have Oweh landing:
Analysts praise Owehâs athleticism, ability to attack the basket, transition scoring, and defensive versatility. However, concerns about his outside shooting and shot creation have kept him from climbing higher on draft boards.
Regardless of where they are selected, Kentucky appears likely to add at least one more player to its growing list of NBA talent. Now, all thatâs left is to see where Quaintance and Oweh begin their professional careers.
First Round: Tuesday, June 23 at 8:00 p.m. ET (Broadcast: ABC, ESPN)
Second Round: Wednesday, June 24 at 8:00 p.m. ET (Broadcast: ESPN)
Dylan File was knocked around badly in the early innings and the Hens offense couldnât take advantage of plenty of baserunners in this one.
Rochester got to File for two in the first, three in the second, and another in the third.
The Hens got on the board in the top of the second when Eduardo Valencia doubled, and a pair of fly outs advanced him around to score. They loaded the bases with two outs in the third but couldnât score.
In the fourth, Corey Julks dumped a pop-up into right field for a single. He eventually scored on a Max Burt sacrifice fly after Cal Stevenson had singled him to third. Max Clark followed that with a single, but again the Hens left the baserunners stranded.
Brenan Hanifee, Jack Little, and Tanner Rainey all did a nice job locking down the Red Wings the rest of the way, but the bats just couldnât mount a comeback.
Clark: 2-5, 2B
Julks: 2-3, R, RBI
File (L, 4-4): 3.2 IP, 6 ER, 9 H, BB, K
Coming Up Next: The series is tied 2-2, with first pitch on Saturday set for 6:45 p.m. ET.
The SeaWolves took advantage of eight walks issued by Senators pitching to win again on Friday.
The game started with Seth Stephenson getting hit by a pitch, and thatâs a bad idea for any opponent. He immediately stole second and took third on a throwing error from Harrisburgâs catcher. Peyton Graham walked and stole second, drawing the throw, and Stephenson took advantage of an error on the second baseman to race home. Thayron Liranzo later singled in Graham for a 2-0 lead.
Andrew Jenkins led off the second with a double, and with one out, Aaron Antonini walked. Stephenson singled in Jenkins and got Antonini to the third, and then stole second base again. A sacrifice fly from Graham plated Antonini. Liranzo blasted his eighth homer of the year to open the third, and it was 5-0 SeaWolves.
Thayron Liranzo launches a solo homer to deep left to put Erie up 5-0. Itâs his 8th home run of the season. pic.twitter.com/oCSFXcX1qX
â Tigers ML Report (@tigersMLreport) June 19, 2026
Max Alba got through three innings without issue, but gave up three in the fourth. He settled back in to pitch the fifth, and struck out five overall on the night.
Chris Meyers doubled and scored on a Jenkins sac fly in the fifth. In the seventh, Meyers and Jenkins singled, and Meyers scored on a wild pitch to make it 7-3 where it ended. Dariel Fregio and Eric Silva each tossed a pair of scoreless frames to keep the Senators down.
Graham and Stephenson now have 32 stolen bases on the season apiece.
Liranzo: 2-3, R, 2 RBI, HR, 2 BB
Jenkins: 3-4, R, RBI, 2B
Meyers: 2-5, 2 R, 2B, K
Alba: 5.0 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 5 K
Coming Up Next: Itâs a 6:00 p.m. ET start in Harrisburg on Saturday with the series all tied up.
West Michigan Whitecaps 3, Lansing Lugnuts 1 (box)
Lugnuts pitching had a lot better night on Friday, but it still wasnât enough as Carlos Marcano and the âCaps bullpen outdueled them in this one.
Marcano gave up a few singles that led to two runs in the third, but was otherwise very good. He struck out six, walking one in 4.2 innings of work.
Meanwhile, the offense was pretty quiet until they broke through in the sixth. Caleb Shpur led off with a single, and with one-out, Bryce Rainer smoked a single to center. Garrett Pennington stepped in and launched a three-run shot to left center field for a 3-2 lead.
Garrett Pennington with a huge 3-run homer to left to put the Whitecaps up 3-2 in the 6th. Itâs his 13th home run of the year. @wangler_nathan on the call. pic.twitter.com/PGNbXAxXxt
â Tigers ML Report (@tigersMLreport) June 20, 2026
Preston Howey contributed with three scoreless innings to get the win. Inohan Paniagua returned from the injury list to close this one out to earn his second save.
Rainer: 2-4, R, K
Pennington: 1-4, R, 3 RBI, HR
Marcano: 4.2 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, BB, 6 K
Coming Up Next: Itâs a 3-0 lead in the series headed into a 7:05 p.m. ET game on Saturday. It will be Star Wars Night, if youâre so inclined.
Lakeland Flying Tigers 10, Dunedin Blue Jays 1 (box)
Beau Ankeney was a one man wrecking ball in this one, while Cale Wetwiska returned off the injury to make a short start on Friday.
Wetwiska allowed a run in the first, and then tossed a pair of scoreless innings. The 2025 seventh rounder looked at full strength though, sitting 95 mph with his lively fourseamer and getting some ugly swings on the cutter.
In the bottom of the first, Jordan Yost was hit by a pitch to start things off. Edian Espinal walked with one out and Jesus Pinto reached on an infield single to load the bases with two outs. A walk to Anibal Salas forced a run in, though that was all theyâd get.
In the second, Ankeney smoked a two-run shot the opposite way. In the third, Carson Rucker singled and took second on a wild pitch. With two outs, Zach MacDonald launched a two-run shot to right center field to make it 5-1.
Ankeney destroyed an inside fastball in the fourth, launching it 440 feet to left center field. That was the 10th home run of the year for the 23-year-old first baseman.
Goodness gracious, Beau Ankeney. He hits a nuke to left for his 2nd home run of the night, and his 10th of the year. Left his bat at 106 MPH and went 440 feet. đđŁ pic.twitter.com/7fWSDvCFGM
â Tigers ML Report (@tigersMLreport) June 19, 2026
A bases clearing double in the seventh from Jordan Yost was the capper that made it 10-1. Eliseo Mota, Jorge Guzman, and Yendy Gomez were all pretty sharp in relief.
Paul Wilsonâs second rehab start went well, as the Tigersâ 2023 3rd rounder fired a pair of perfect frames with two strikeouts to start this one off. His curveball-slider combination was working, though his command was pretty rusty, and he topped out at 95 mph with the fastball.
RHP Ryan Hall, the Tigers 2025 fifth rounder, made his pro debut as he works his way back from injury. That went less well as he gave up three runs.
A rehabbing Patrick Lee homered in the top of the first for the Tigers, and Jose Dickson launched a grand slam in the second to lead the offense.
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 19: Cam Schlittler #31 of the New York Yankees warms up prior to the game between the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Friday, June 19, 2026 in New York, New York. (Photo by Michael Mooney/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Fresh off another masterful performance last night, itâs still amazing to think about how there were 219 players selected in the 2021 MLB Draft before Cam Schlittler. The details will fade in memory. No, he was not remotely this kind of pitcher at Northeastern in the Colonial Athletic Association. But the Yankeesâ scouts deserve credit for nabbing not one but two players from New England who had tools that popped. The development from Schlittler and Ben Rice (12th round, 363rd overall) is nothing short of impressive. They have bigger goals in mind than strong first halves, to be clear. I canât wait to see whatâs next.
Today on the site, Scott will take the occasion of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders traveling to Columbus to face the Clippers to remember the many years that they were in fact a Yankees affiliate. Peter will tackle the Rivalry Roundup, Jonathan will remember a âNext Man Upâ Yankee for todayâs birthday feature, and Michael will ponder the question of whether the Knicksâ championship run increases or decreases the pressure on the 2026 Yankees.
Todayâs Matchup
New York Yankees vs. Cincinnati Reds
Time: 1:35 p.m. EST
TV: YES Network, Reds.tv
Venue: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
Questions/Prompts:
1. Do you think Cam Schlittler will top his 13-strikeout game from last night at some point this season?
2. How far do you think Team USA will advance in the World Cup now that theyâve secured an appearance in the knockout round?
WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 18: Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) takes a shot on goal during the Pittsburgh Penguins versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on January 18, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.. (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Whether or not any trade has been close to completion, Rickard Rakellâs name has often been in the chatter as an offseason trade possibility. Thatâs again this case on TSN, where Rakell comes in as a highlighted player around the league.
6. Rickard Rakell, Pittsburgh â LW
Rakell, 33, had 24 goals and 48 points in 60 games with the Penguins last season. He added a goal and four points in six playoff games as the Penguins fell in the first round to the Flyers.
The 6-foot-1 winger is entering the fifth season of a six-year, $30 million contract that carries an annual cap hit of $5 million.
The Penguins have been patient about holding onto Rakell, who is quite the asset on the ice. After producing 70 points in 2024-25, Rakell performed well again in 2025-26. Heâs versatile enough to play all three forward positions, including an extended stint at center this past season. Add in a team-friendly cap hit and thatâs a valuable player to have around.
Yet the questions still swirl, which could have something to do with team makeup as well. Pittsburgh re-signed 40-year old Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby turns 39 over the summer and Bryan Rust celebrated his 34th birthday last month. Add in Rakell, and thatâs a mighty old nucleus of a top-six forward group.
The Pens donât have a ton of other options, Egor Chinakhov has established himself, Tommy Novak is hanging around but prospects like Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen did not make tangible strides towards being plug-and-play in a huge NHL role next season.
That makes the idea of moving Rakell an alluring one, especially if the teamâs initial outlook for 2026-27 didnât include Malkin coming back. Moving on from Rakell now for younger assets and trying to target bringing in another forward (either directly in that transaction or by finding one elsewhere) could make sense in a team-building perspective.
The fallback of simply hanging onto a good player is a nice path to take too. Rakell is a player that is still going to help next season, if it comes to that.
The offseason got a jolt, though at the expense of an already uninspiring July 1, when the top blueline UFA was taken off the market via a sign-and-trade.
Itâs not a riveting post-Cup June just yet, but a trade every other day isnât a bad clip as we march steadily toward the draft.
Islanders News
Bryan Trottier reflects on getting his own postal stamp. [Isles]
Special episode of Weird IslandersâŠa conversation with Josh Ho-Sang himself! Good dude. [LHH]
(Yester)day in Isles History: The Ryan Pulock block. [Isles]
Elsewhere
Take Darren Raddysh off your offseason, redundant-consonant list, as the Leafs have jumped the line with a sign-and-trade for the top free agent, sending a 5th to the Lightning and inking him to a massive eight-year deal after the 30-year-oldâs breakout season. [Sportsnet | NHL]
Rumors and such: Does Bowen Byram want to leave Buffalo for a #1 role? Is Pavel Zacha available? Jordan Kyrou on the market to anyone who might bother? [Sportsnet | Athletic]
Jonathan Toews retires, for real this time. [NHL | Sportsnet]
Ron Francis returns to Pittsburgh in an advisory role. [Sportsnet | NHL]
The Bruins will retire Patrice Bergeronâs #37, which is just as well because thatâs a terribly ugly number that shouldnât be in general circulation anyway. [NHL]
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 02: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball against Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter at Target Center on January 02, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Celtics defeated the Timberwolves 118-115. 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 David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Celtics have popped up in several major rumors since their abrupt playoff exit. Talk of a deal for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Trey Murphy has been the most notable of the bunch, but two new names have entered the mix.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported Friday night that Boston could have interest in Rudy Gobert and Detroitâs Isaiah Stewart.
On Stewart:
âBoston is known to be looking for frontcourt upgrades and has liked Stewart for some time, sources say.â
On Gobert:
âIn reference to Minnesotaâs interest in White, which The Athleticâs Sam Amick first reported Friday morning, trading him for Rudy Gobert would represent a clear salary match. Sources say that Boston, furthermore, has inquired about Gobert before ⊠most recently at Februaryâs trade deadline. Now I donât think that the Wolves are actively shopping Gobert, either way, but Minnesota is said to be as exploratory and open-minded as Boston when it comes to shaking up the roster around the teamâs clear alpha (Edwards).â
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA â JANUARY 02: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball against Rudy Gobert #27 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter at Target Center on January 02, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Celtics defeated the Timberwolves 118-115. 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 David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images
While both players address Bostonâs desire for frontcourt size and defense, the logistics behind acquiring them are very different.
Gobert is a huge swing. Heâs signed for a $36.5 million cap hit next season. Stewart is on the books for $15 million in 2026-27, the final year of his deal before a team option in 2027-28. That gap would dictate who has to be on the move in any deal.
For Gobert, Boston almost certainly has to put Derrick White in the trade to match salary. Amick reported Friday morning that Minnesota has âstrong interestâ in White. Fischerâs reporting adds some fuel to the fire given how the two sides line up financially. White is signed for two more seasons at $30.3 million and $32.6 million, plus a $34.8 million player option for 2028-29. Trading him for a soon-to-be 34-year-old center, even one as accomplished as Gobert, creates a conversation about what this roster wants to become.
Stewart is a much smaller, supplementary move. Sam Hauserâs $10 million salary alone gets close enough to legally match, meaning Boston wouldnât have to touch its core to get a deal like this done. Brad Stevens would also have the $27 million TPE at his disposal, too. Amick reported that Isaiah Stewart is available, with Detroit prioritizing additional shooting and playmaking, which could make a player like Hauser a logical fit.
Gobert averaged 10.9 points, 11.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game this past year and finished fourth in Defensive Player of the Year voting. Heâd walk into a starting role on Day 1 and immediately become the best rim protector Boston has had in a very long time. Acquiring him would give the Celtics a 7-foot defensive anchor, but the likely inclusion of Derrick White creates a difficult trade-off.
Stewart offers the younger, cheaper alternative. Heading into his age-25 season, he averaged 10 points, 5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 22.7 minutes per game. Heâs not the same game-changing presence as Gobert, but he brings physicality, switchability and a defensive motor that fits Bostonâs identity. Heâd likely slot in as the backup to Neemias Queta, giving the Celtics a solid second option that can eat up minutes.
BOSTON, MA â DECEMBER 15: Isaiah Stewart #28, Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons and Neemias Queta #88 of the Boston Celtics waits for the rebound during the game on December 15, 2025 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
These rumors are both interesting, if thereâs truth to them. It does make sense that the Celtics would look to improve on their frontcourt based on the role it played in their loss to the Sixers.
With the Giannis domino yet to fall, itâs difficult to get a read on how the rest of the offseason could play out. Gobert could be a fallback option if a pursuit of Antetokounmpo falls short, or he could become part of a larger roster overhaul. Stewart could be a compelling option in either scenario as well.
There is very little certainty right now, but with the NBA Draft just a few days away, clarification should be coming soon. Whether or not any of these deals materialize, it feels clear that Brad Stevens isnât satisfied with the state of the roster, and change should be on the way. The frontcourt is a reasonable place to start.
Jun 18, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. (13) is checked on after hitting himself with a foul ball in the fourth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
The Athletic | Chris Kirschner ($): Jazz Chisholm Jr. had to exit Thursdayâs game against the White Sox after fouling a ball into his groin, but he insists that he will continue not wearing a cup. He said fielding grounders is where youâd really want to wear some protection, but that he trusts his hands enough to not make a change in spite of the pain he suffered on Thursday. He admitted he has never worn a cup in his career including when it was required in the minors. Aaron Boone confirmed that âa lot of these guys donât wear cups,â as they feel that doing so limits their range of movement or is just plain uncomfortable.
Thatâs certainly a risky gamble to take as we saw with Jazz. At least he showed no signs of continued discomfort last night, homering off Rhett Lowder to kick off the Yankeesâ scoring in a 5-0 win.
MLB.com | Bryan Hoch: The Yankees suffered another bullpen meltdown on Thursday, Fernando Cruz and (more impactfully) Tim Hill loading the bases in the eighth before Camilo Doval came in and gave up a grand slam on the first pitch he threw. These latest struggles thrown what has been a glaring need all season into sharper focus with the Trade Deadline approaching. The Yankees have internal options including converting top prospect Carlos Lagrange into a reliever to potentially help the major-league bullpen this year if he can sufficiently adjust to the role. But they would also be well-suited to target relievers with a proven track record of success at the highest level.
The Athletic | Chris Kirschner ($): Alongside the bullpen, the top target in the coming weeks will be a right-handed catcher. Austin Wells may have hit two home runs in his latest rehab game at Triple-A, but he and J.C. Escarra have both largely struggled to produce at the plate, both lefties in particular looking helpless against southpaw pitching. The name that keeps popping up is the Twinsâ Ryan Jeffers, who was slashing .295/.408/.541 with seven home runs, 26 RBIs, a 163 wRC+, and 1.7 fWAR in 37 games before suffering a broken hamate bone in his left hand on May 19th. He has an eight-week expected recovery timetable, but it is always terrifying for a hitter coming back from a broken hamate. Heâs middle-of-the-pack when it comes to framing in his career but quite poor at blocking and throwing, which could stand at odds with the Yankees emphasizing defense over anything else at the catcher position.
MLB Trade Rumors | Darragh McDonald: The Yankees announced that right handed pitcher Peter Strzelecki has opted out of the minor-league deal he signed on May 23rd and will become a free agent. He made just six appearances at Triple-A since joining the organization, allowing four runs in 4.2 innings though he did strike out over 40-percent of the batters he faced. The 31-year-old is hoping for his first taste of the big leagues since making 10 relief appearances for the Guardians in 2024. He pitched 83.2 innings for Milwaukee, Arizona, and Cleveland between 2022 and 2024, posting a 3.44 ERA, 3.49 FIP, and 86 strikeouts across 77 appearances.
Arkansas guard Meleek Thomas drives to the basket past Vanderbilt guard Duke Miles. | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
This offseason will be a fascinating one for the Celtics as they retool following last yearâs early exit.
That reshaping officially begins with the NBA Draft, which is set for Tuesday and Wednesday in Brooklyn, and will continue in the coming weeks.
While itâs very possible the Celtics will trade one or both of their picks as part of a deal, they currently have the No. 27 and No. 40 selections, so letâs operate under the assumption that theyâll make those picks.
With that in mind, here are seven players who could go late in the first round or early in the second and could fit in well with the Celtics:
Isaiah Evans, Duke guard
Yes, itâs unlikely Evans will fall to No. 27, but heâs worth including on this list because the Celtics should absolutely take him if he does. They could also make a deal to move up and draft him.
Evans is a lights-out shooter who moves well without the ball, improved his driving ability last year at Duke and has great instincts defensively. Heâs 6 feet, 6 inches, plays with a ton of confidence and would fit in well with Bostonâs 3-point heavy offense. His floor and ceiling are both high, and heâs shown heâs capable of making improvements to his game.
Isaiah Evans in a road win against No. 20 Louisville:
The Southborough native masterfully pieced together one of the most magnificent careers in UConn history. Heâs a strong shooter, versatile defender and extremely smart player.
The question marks with Karaban are his ability to create his own shot and to stay in front of quick guards on the other end. If the Celtics keep both Baylor Scheierman and Sam Hauser, Karaban probably wouldnât make sense; if they trade one, he could be an ideal replacement.
Tarris Reed Jr., UConn center
Karabanâs teammate, Reed, was outstanding in the NCAA Tournament and played his best when the lights were brightest. While heâs improved his footwork in the paint, he still has room to grow in that area.
He has an impressive motor, is a fiery and fearless player and brings out the best in his teammates. Reed could learn from Neemias Queta and push Amari Williams for one of the final roster spots.
Players in men's NCAA Tournament history to have 200 career points scored and a team winning percentage of .940 or higher:
Darius Acuff Jr. got a lot of buzz last year at Arkansas, and for good reason, but Thomas was also extremely impressive. The 6-foot-5-inch, 185-pound shooting guard/small forward shot 41.6 percent from 3 on 5.3 attempts per game.
He scored 21, 19 and 17 points in the NCAA Tournament and shot 45 percent or better each game. Thomas has tremendous upside and could end up being a steal in this yearâs Draft. He would mesh well with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown from a stylistic standpoint and, like Tatum, is still only 19 years old.
Arkansas guard Meleek Thomas has declared for the NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility.
Sharp is a menace defensively and was a driving force in Houstonâs success the past few years. He has a nose for the ball, impressive range and plays extremely hard.
While his size (6 feet, 3 inches) is a bit of a concern, since heâs not a point guard, he compensates for what he lacks in that area with physicality and brute force. Sharp is the kind of player whose winning habits are contagious, and he always seems to hit the big shot when his team really needs it.
Houstonâs Emanuel Sharp said that he was on the phone with Kelvin Sampson after his first scrimmage at the combine, and Sharp said that Sampson said âif I donât rebound heâs gonna rebound better heâs gonna run me.â
Nkrumah is one of the better stories in this yearâs NBA Draft. The Worcester native and South High product started his career at Quinsigamond College before transferring to Nichols College and transferring again to Worcester State.
He then kept it rolling at Tennessee State under former Duke guard Nolan Smith, averaging 17.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3 assists last season. The 24-year-old sharpshooter has seen a lot in the past few years and appears ready to keep elevating his game.
Tennessee State's Aaron Nkrumah made the most of being the last player invited to the G League Combine, dropping 22 points on 12 shots in yesterday's scrimmage.
The Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year measured 6'5 barefoot, 189 pounds, with a 6'10.25 wingspan. pic.twitter.com/nw2HX5HnOP
Jefferson is an intriguing player because at 6 feet, 9 inches, he can guard post players and body people down low. He can also step out and burn you from the outside, moves well for a guy his size and is a crafty passer.
He feels like one of those players where people will wonder which position he truly plays (probably power forward) that ends up shining wherever he goes on the court because of his skill set, motor and heart. The Celtics need more low-post scoring, and Jefferson has a chance to help an NBA team in that area.
The player that we think will be a very good NBA player and getting no love â Joshua Jefferson
Not elite at anything but does so many things well
Fits a great 3/4 mold in the league and, by ALL accounts, is a big time winner pic.twitter.com/B07pOBr06E
Former Kraken defenseman and two-time Stanley Cup winner Justin Schultz will make his wa back to Seattle, the team announced Thursday, to take on a role in player development. The 35-year-old announced his retirement in 2024. At the time, he was playing for the Swiss National League.
Schultz's career spanned 12 NHL seasons with 745 regular season games. He hoisted the Stanley Cup twice, in 2016 and 2017, with the Pittsburgh Penguins. His success with the Penguins may have played a part in giving him this new opportunity: both GM Jason Botterill and newly-announced Assistant GM Patrik Allvin were part of the Penguins organization at that time.
Speaking on his new role, Schultz said that player development is "something that I've always wanted to do." Adding that "I loved my time in Seattle. Iâm excited to get to work with these prospects. They're all obviously great players; they've been drafted or signed. I want to help in whatever way I can with what they need to get better. I've played a lot of games, won some Stanley Cups, I am hoping to relay some positive things to them.
Director of Player Development Cory Murphy is also excited to have Schultz join his team, calling him a "great fit within our [player development] group...He's familiar with the organization and the people; he's lived [the NHL player life] for a long time and had success doing it. That's something he's going to bring, the consistency of pro habits, what's needed on a daily basis to be an NHL player and to stay in the NHL. Not just to make it, but to stay there. That's something we pride ourselves on, looking to develop these prospects to make the NHL and have the tools for a longer NHL career.â
Kraken Development Camp will take place the last week of June, following the draft. The public are invited to view camp on June 30th, July 1st, and July 2nd. See the Kraken Community Iceplex website for times and details.
CLEVELAND - MAY 11: Rajon Rondo #9 and Kevin Garnett #5 of the Boston Celtics talk on court against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Five of the Eastern Conference Semifinals during the 2010 NBA Playoffs on May 11, 2010 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. The Celtics won 120-88. 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 2010 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Christmas can come early for NBA fans. After a champion is crowned in June, the draft follows soon after with a fresh class of young players. And maybe more importantly, the offseason kicks off in July with so much palace intrigue over trades and free agency.
However, what comes with the excitement of getting new players in a summer deal is the hard truth of sending players out. Whether itâs a fan favorite (Marcus!) or a promising phenom (like Aaron Nesmith), thereâs always a give-and-take in these trades.
Need a savvy everyman and jack-of-all-trades? Baylor Scheierman could be your guy. Ron Harper Jr. could develop into a microwave scorer off the bench. Jordan Walsh is already an accomplished defender.
In the end, it was rookie sensation Hugo Gonzalez that our readers didnât want to include in a potential package next month. Gonzalez fell out of the rotation by the end of the year and into the playoffs, but his upside in undeniable.
Back in 2006, then President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge refused to include Rajon Rondo in the deal that would bring Kevin Garnett to Boston. That duo would later raise Banner 17 to the rafters.
Could Gonzalez be that instrumental in a championship run or should Stevens even hesitate including him a deal that could net a known commodity? Well, the fans have spoken and named Hugo the âMost Likely To Be Back In Boston Next Season.â
Our friends at FanDuel donât have a Mr. Untouchable category you can wager on, but if you want to bet on Boston, theyâve already got the Celtics at a +550 to raise the Larry OâBrien in 2027.
New York, N.Y.: Crowds of fans of the New York Knicks attend a championship ticker-tape parade celebrating the team's NBA Finals victory in New York on June 18, 2026. (Photo by Alejandra Villa Loarca/Newsday RM via Getty Images) | Newsday via Getty Images
If youâre still on cloud nine, thatâs alright.
The Knicks won the NBA championship for the first time in 53 years.
Itâs fair to say weâre due at least 53 days of floating around the Earth without giving nothing else any care.
"The further we get away from it, the more real it becomes."
â New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 19, 2026
Jose Alvarado
On his upcoming free agency:
âFirst of all, I got to go get paid, man. Thatâs God willing. I want to be in this for a long time. I love this life. I love the NBA life. It feeds my family, and you know, it puts me in rooms where I could never be at.â
On potentially taking less money to stay with the Knicks:
âI got to see what makes sense for everybody. I truly do feel like if itâs a great opportunity to stay home, I stay home.â
One of Leon Roseâs Good Luck Charms on this Knicks Championship Run?
A piece of slate from the City of David in Ancient Jerusalem.
Gifted to him by the Philadelphia Eagles GM, Howie Roseman. Also a Jewish exec who won a Championship. pic.twitter.com/iL6maczhTl
On the gift from Howie Roseman before one of the Finals wins:
âI want to share this with everbody. Howie Roseman, general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles came tonight with his boys and he gave me this gift which is a piece of slate from the city of David in ancient Jerusalem that he got when he was there and he either got it, or it was given to him in 2024. He took it to the Super Bowl and won the super bowl and he gave it to me for good luck tonight before the game. Un-friggen-believable.â
Josh Hart "Can you sit here & admit you were wrong?
â New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 20, 2026
Josh Hart
On the overconfident and cocky Spurs:
âYou see that reaction (after they won the WCF and beat OKC) because they think they gonâ win it. They think itâs over.
âAnd then you look at the reaction after we beat Cleveland, and it was tough to celebrate, because, like, we got four more, right? Obviously, winning the Eastern Conference is an amazing accomplishment, but we all look at that like, this is just a step, this isnât the destination. And the reaction after Game 4 in Cleveland shows that.â
On Becky Hammonâs comments about Jalen Brunson:
âIâm not naming names: Iâm still waiting for somebody⊠to say they was wrong about someone who led our team to a championshipâŠI know they have media availability so weâll be waiting for that apology.â
â CulturedUpdates (@CulturedUpdatez) June 19, 2026
Karl-Anthony Towns
On his role evolving during the playoffs:
âI think for me itâs imperative to make the defense have to shift and make them have to continuously think. Itâs not only, as you know, the game is already physically tiring, but if you add the mental component as well and have them thinking the whole game, it makes them even more tired and allows for more opportunities for us to get better looks.â
On ball movement and passing:
âI think what you can do when you do move the ball and allow the IQ to flow and the ball to flow is you allow great shots to happen, especially when youâre touching the paint or having movement on the offense and allowing the defense to make a mistake, instead of us having to make a tough shot or a great shot. Iâve always loved passing, and itâs always one of my greatest joys is getting my teammates an assist and allowing them to see them succeed. Itâs truly, for me, better than hitting a great shot, because when you make a shot, only one person is happy, but when you get an assist, two people are happy. I think thatâs a recipe for success, when everyone is really feeling good about themselves.â
James Dolan is booed loudly by the watch party at Radio City.
Then he apologizes for mismanaging the Knicks for two decades, and the crowd cheers.
â THE GARDEN IS ROCKING (@MSG_Rocking) June 14, 2026
James Dolan
On admitting being wrong during the dark Knicks times:
âDid I make mistakes? Of course I did. Did I trust people that maybe I shouldnât have trusted? You go into it as a new owner and if youâre dumb enough, you think you actually know what youâre doing. Believe me, you donât. And all along, you have everybody whispering in your ear: Do this, do that. You have you guys, the press, telling us where weâre going wrong at every step. And, you can start to feel like a pinball.â
On learning over 25 years at the helm of the Knicks organization:
âThe thing is, is to learn. Right? That might be the thing I feel best about is, I felt, I feel, that now after 25 freaking years of doing this, I might actually have learned something.â
On Tom Thibodeauâs run in New York and his firing:
âWe loved Thibs, we really did, I held him in high regard. It would not surprise me at all, by the way, if Thibs comes back and coaches a championship team because I think you could still win that way. Thibs was kind of old style. Right? Like Red Holzman, right, everything comes through me, and Iâll guide us through. Heâs very good at that, but that sort of obviated the need for all these other people. Mike Brown had a different view. He had a different approach. And you look at our team, in the Finals. Everyone was healthy.â
stephen a smith loudly booed at âthe roommates showâ with jalen brunson & josh hart pic.twitter.com/MXMlBZdnid
On being wrong about the Knicks and Jalen Brunson:
âIâm a grown a** man. I was beyond grown. I apologized to this brother on national television. Iâm apologizing to you. Iâm apologizing to the entire Knicks organization. Let me be very, very clear â I have never been more happy to be wrong in my life. Let me be very, very clear â I came out of the womb a Knicks fan. Iâm 58-years-old. The last time the New York Knicks won a title before last Saturday, I was four.
âIn his own way, (Brunson) reminds me of this every time. Itâs automatic⊠national television, I owe this man an apology. I am grateful for what you have done for this city, what yâall have done for this city, and you wonât be hearing any more doubts from me, my brother.â
The Knicks could keep their core together for the next 3-5 years IF Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart are willing to take a pay cut, per @WindhorstESPN
KAT is eligible for a 4-year, $272M extension.
"If Karl Towns is willing to take a little bit of a haircut, you know, $7-10⊠pic.twitter.com/ugpU6Bx1L6
On Karl-Anthony Townsâ taking a paycut being the key to the Knicksâ contending window:
âIn all honesty, thatâs the biggest question of the Knicks offseason. So Karl [Anthony] Towns is under contract for next season. Heâll be back. Heâll be the starting center. Heâll be there on ring night. The way he was used in this postseason, itâs hard to not see him as with this team for the majority of the rest of his career.
âBut he is in position to get a contract extension thatâs going to approach $70 million a year on average. And he has earned it. He has shown that he is an elite center in this league, a championship player. But the Knicks are not going to be able to afford that type of player. Theyâd re-sign him. But I donât know if theyâd be able to keep the team together.â
On how Jalen Brunsonâs sacrifice could impact KATâs and the Knicksâ future:
âI donât expect anybody in the history of the NBA to do what Jalen Brunson did. If Karl Towns is willing to take a little bit of a haircut, you know, $7-10 million over the course of multiple seasons and Josh Hart is also extension eligible this summer, if both of them are willing to take a little bit of a haircut, you could see this core staying together for three, four, five years.â
J. R. Smith responds to a fan saying these New York Knicks could beat the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers . He says Weâd beat them, put me and Shump on Jalen Brunson and who on the Knicks is guarding LeBron James and the little guy people say he doesnât like, number 2 (Kyrie Irving) pic.twitter.com/420iwZwyAr
â joebuddenclips/fanpage (@Thechat101) June 19, 2026
J.R. Smith
On his wild spending throughout his NBA career:
âThe first thing that comes to mind? How much money I wasted. Half the shit I bought in the last 10 years, I barely use. Even the watches, buying all these fancy-ass watches and shit, I donât wear them. I donât go anywhere to wear them! Why did I spend all of this money on this stuff that I donât really use? I had seven cars at one point when we were in Cleveland. Iâm like, âWhy did I have seven cars?ââ
Agent Bernie Lee doesn't think players taking pay cuts a la Brunson is such a great idea.
If your reaction is "well, he's an agent, of course he's going to say that," I still recommend you read the article.
On players being compared to Brunsonâs contract sacrifice:
âIâve talked to a couple of different players that could be Supermax this year or next year â theyâre starting to feel a little pressure from team owners by saying, âYo, Jalen Brunson left 113 million dollars on the table. What are you going to do?ââ
Marc Berman covered the Knicks for 23 years. He watched them win the championship at a sports bar in Florida https://t.co/XLvPuKei5g
On being glad he retired before the Knicks won it all:
âPart of me was saying, âOh, Iâm glad I retired, I would be panicking.â I was shaking in the final couple of minutes, just thinking about the enormity of having to write it. And I didnât have to write it.â
On James Dolan:
âListen, I wasnât a big fan of James. He was a pretty good guitar player, but he made a lot of silly mistakes and his media policies were always baffling to me. And I wonder now that they finally have a championship if heâll open up a little more with the media.â
On New Yorkâs reaction to the Knicks championship:
âYou see it in the streets. I mean, everyone is just in almost disbelief. I think itâs surreal to them. I think the next day it finally hit them, but itâs something that they thought may not have ever happened in their lifetime. Itâs 53 years, and the team seems to always have gotten a bad break. And every single break went their way since mid-April. I think theyâre just joyous, and I think thereâs a sense of relief.â
âIt takes a championship to bring this caliber of happiness and love together.â
âI think if you said âtabloid reporter,â his picture might be in the dictionary. He kind of embodied all of that. He knew what they wanted at the New York Post. I mean, the Daily News is the same way.
âHeâd be lying in wait. Then heâd look at the guy for a second, pause, kind of close his eyes. It very much was like Peter Falk playing Columbo: âDoctor, just one more thing.ââ
STEVE-O SCORES A RUN WHILE ON FIRE đ„ @BananaBall_
