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YouTube Gold: Kareem’s Choice For GOAT May Surprise You

NEW YORK - UNDATED: Milwaukee Bucks' Oscar Robertson #1 dribbles against New York Knicks' Dick Barnett #12 during a game at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York. (Photo by Focus on Sport via Getty Images) | Focus on Sport via Getty Images

Generally speaking, most people consider either Michael Jordan or LeBron James to be the GOAT of professional basketball. Jordan was an incredible presence from 1984 to 2003, minus his first two retirements. As for James, he started playing in the NBA in 2003 and, for better or worse, is still playing (he is not the player he used to be, and at some point, his diminishing skills will hurt his legacy).

As we said, most people would go with one of them for the greatest of all time, but not everyone. Take Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Kareem has a somewhat forgotten choice: Oscar Robertson. Robertson was somewhat overshadowed in the 1960s by the Boston Celtics, and the Lakers, first with Jerry West and Elgin Baylor, and later with Wilt Chamberlain, but was he truly great?

Absolutely, he was, and this video makes a plausible argument for placing him ahead of Jordan and James.

Robertson, first and foremost, was decades ahead of his time. He was a 6-5 point guard who averaged a triple-double. He was immensely skilled, and strong enough to box out much bigger players.

As the video suggests, Kareem, who played with the Big O for two seasons early in his career, is uniquely qualified to judge greatness. He played against Chamberlain, with Magic Johnson, and against Jordan and Larry Bird.

The basic argument is that Robertson had a combination of total skills, talent, and control of the game that was well beyond that of Jordan and James. Not many people will accept this, because they’ve mostly seen Jordan and James, and Robertson is now 87 years old, and not everyone saw him in his prime.

But it’s a plausible argument as you watch this. What do you think?

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LeBron James possibly signing with Warriors draws eye-popping Bronny reaction

LeBron James possibly signing with Warriors draws eye-popping Bronny reaction originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

LeBron James has kept his cards so close to the vest, that not even his own son seems to know where he will go.

The elder James remains a free agent as a handful of prominent NBA teams continue to vie for his services this summer, and it’s unclear when a decision might come.

His oldest son, Bronny, recently was approached on the street by Instagram creator biggy22x, who first asked James to share a message to the youth before then asking the pressing question Warriors fans wants to know: Is his dad going to Golden State?

“Man, I don’t know where he’s going,” Bronny said laughing. “That would be crazy if he did.”

While Bronny might not yet know where his dad will play next season, it’s safe to assume he, and the James family, at least, has some sort of inkling about where the 22-time NBA All-Star realistically could end up and how close he is to making a decision.

However, one organization James won’t choose, is the Los Angeles Lakers, which he officially departed earlier this offseason and where he was able to play alongside his son Bronny for the past two seasons.

Now, with James potentially joining the Warriors, the father and son soon could become Pacific Division and Western Conference rivals.

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Patrick Kane returning to Blackhawks on two-year deal

Patrick Kane returning to Blackhawks on two-year deal originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Patrick Kane is officially returning to Chicago.

The Blackhawks announced Thursday that the team agreed to a two-year contract with the former star, which will run through the 2027-28 season.

Kane was originally drafted by Chicago with the first overall pick in 2007, playing a pivotal role in three Stanley Cup championships and becoming one of the most important players in team history.

“Day in and day out for 16 seasons, Patrick captivated the city of Chicago with his dazzling skill, creating some of the most memorable moments in Blackhawks history as he helped bring our storied franchise back to the pinnacle of our sport,” Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement. “He’s shown on countless occasions that he knows what it takes to win at the highest levels, and we couldn’t be prouder for Patrick to once again call the United Center home and continue to shine in Chicago’s brightest lights.”

Rumors of Kane’s return began circulating last week.

Kane, who is among the franchise leaders in nearly every key offensive category, told former Blackhawks defenseman Chris Chelios he was deciding between the Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres when it came to his next move.

“I am not gonna lie to you guys, it is down to Buffalo and Chicago. I know that,” Chelios told David Haugh and Mike Mulligan on 104.3 The Score Wednesday morning.

Kane, who will turn 38 years old in November, is likely looking at his last contract in the NHL before he hangs up his skates, and he’s still got some gas in the tank, having scored 16 goals and dished out 41 assists with the Detroit Red Wings last season.

Kane was a fixture with the Blackhawks for more than a decade before the team traded him to the New York Rangers during the 2022-23 season. Since then he has played for the Rangers and Red Wings.

During a press conference discussing his own new five-year, $75 million deal, Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard — another No. 1 overall pick — said it would be “incredible” to play with Kane.

“That would be incredible to get to play with him and learn from him,” he said. “Hopefully he decides to come back, and you talk about kind of the legacy aspect of it, but just as a team, it would make us a way better team. He’s still an amazing player.”

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Patrick Kane returning to Blackhawks on two-year deal

Patrick Kane returning to Blackhawks on two-year deal originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Patrick Kane is officially returning to Chicago.

The Blackhawks announced Thursday that the team agreed to a two-year contract with the former star, which will run through the 2027-28 season.

Kane was originally drafted by Chicago with the first overall pick in 2007, playing a pivotal role in three Stanley Cup championships and becoming one of the most important players in team history.

“Day in and day out for 16 seasons, Patrick captivated the city of Chicago with his dazzling skill, creating some of the most memorable moments in Blackhawks history as he helped bring our storied franchise back to the pinnacle of our sport,” Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement. “He’s shown on countless occasions that he knows what it takes to win at the highest levels, and we couldn’t be prouder for Patrick to once again call the United Center home and continue to shine in Chicago’s brightest lights.”

Rumors of Kane’s return began circulating last week.

Kane, who is among the franchise leaders in nearly every key offensive category, told former Blackhawks defenseman Chris Chelios he was deciding between the Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres when it came to his next move.

“I am not gonna lie to you guys, it is down to Buffalo and Chicago. I know that,” Chelios told David Haugh and Mike Mulligan on 104.3 The Score Wednesday morning.

Kane, who will turn 38 years old in November, is likely looking at his last contract in the NHL before he hangs up his skates, and he’s still got some gas in the tank, having scored 16 goals and dished out 41 assists with the Detroit Red Wings last season.

Kane was a fixture with the Blackhawks for more than a decade before the team traded him to the New York Rangers during the 2022-23 season. Since then he has played for the Rangers and Red Wings.

During a press conference discussing his own new five-year, $75 million deal, Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard — another No. 1 overall pick — said it would be “incredible” to play with Kane.

“That would be incredible to get to play with him and learn from him,” he said. “Hopefully he decides to come back, and you talk about kind of the legacy aspect of it, but just as a team, it would make us a way better team. He’s still an amazing player.”

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Why pairing LeBron James, Jimmy Butler together would be tricky for Warriors

Why pairing LeBron James, Jimmy Butler together would be tricky for Warriors originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Everything Jimmy Butler III has said or done since coming to the Warriors signifies contentment with the franchise. He arrived 17 months ago with a smile that remains in place as he rehabs from surgery to repair a torn right ACL. He’s sincere, or a superb actor.

Statements made by Golden State general manager Mike Dunleavy in recent months indicate Butler – his former teammate for three NBA seasons with the Chicago Bulls – will be a Warrior once he is cleared to play.

Meanwhile, the Warriors are hoping against hope that LeBron James will agree to joining their roster.

The dialogue linking James to the Warriors is mostly related to his positive relationships with Draymond Green, Stephen Curry and coach Steve Kerr. As for Butler, it’s as if his early season unavailability nudges him outside the chatter.

There could be more than that, though. Specifically in terms of “fit,” a factor generally at the top of Kerr’s roster-building process.

Butler is a wise 36-year-old small forward who plays big, eagerly bullies into the paint, takes great pleasure in creating easy shots for his teammates and has a knack for drawing fouls that result in free throws. Butler is at his best when he has the ball.

James is a wise 41-year-old small forward who plays big, eagerly bullies into the paint, takes great pleasure in creating easy shots for his teammates and has shot more than 12,000 free throws. James is at his best when he has the ball.

Butler and James are not the same player, but they share so many attributes and competitive characteristics that having them on the same roster results in considerable replication.

Moreover, putting them on the court together would relegate one to the margins. Who plays off the ball? Who stands in the corner prepared to catch-and-shoot?

That doesn’t suit either. Butler has been on five different NBA teams, and was a focal point at every turn. James has been on three different teams, always the focal point – until last season in Los Angeles.

“I was put into some positions I’ve never been in before in my career, actually in my life,” James told reporters in May, after the Lakers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs. “I’ve never been a third option in my life. To be able to thrive in that role, for that period of time, then to step back into that role that I’ve been accustomed to over my career, over my life playing this sport . . . that was pretty cool for me at this stage in my career.”

Being the “third option” behind Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves was not so appealing that James wanted to stay in LA, the most convenient location for his lifestyle. Remaining in that role with the Lakers would have granted him the highest possible salary.

James, however, wanted to explore his options, which are many. He’s seeking, according to representative Rich Paul, personal joy, family comfort, trustworthy teammates and a reasonable a chance for fifth ring. None of the teams leading the LeBron Polls offers all four components.

The Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers would pull LeBron far away from his West Coast base. So would the Cleveland Cavaliers, who offset some of that by being his “second home.” The Warriors are closest to LA but adding James merely moves them from the middle of the NBA to somewhere in the 8-to-12 range.

Which brings us to another of Golden State’s longtime fantasy acquisitions: Anthony Davis.

It’s well known that James, moving into his 24th NBA season, considers Davis one of his favorite teammates. They led the Lakers to a championship during the Covid-impacted Bubble Season in 2020. Davis currently belongs to the Washington Wizards, and league sources indicate that they plan to keep him as part of a core with Trae Young, No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa and Davis. Seven-foot Alex Sarr, 21, would alleviate AD’s concerns about playing center.

Davis in two weeks will be eligible to sign a max contract extension with Washington. The Wizards are hinting they’re committed to AD being part of their future, but Aug. 6 is the “put up or shut up” date. If they immediately affirm their ties to Davis, he likely stays. Any stalling or low-balling with Paul and the Klutch group could change the game.

With James still weighing his options, there is growing speculation that his decision could be tied to Davis’ future. If AD wants out, that could open the door for the Warriors.

Any attempt to pry Davis from Washington via sign-and-trade would have to include multiple NBA draft picks and a big salary. Such as that attached to Butler, who will be paid $56.8 million in the final year of his deal.

That outcome remains a longshot – even less likely than landing James – but the Warriors would be negligent not to pursue it if it were to deliver LeBron.

One thing, however, is certain. The LeBron-Jimmy roster fit, as smart as they are, would be tricky for Kerr.

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Cyclist who switched countries targeted after comparing Australia to ‘high school’ and England to ‘Hogwarts’

  • Matt Richardson left Australia to compete for England after winning three Olympic medals

  • The track star says he has much better resources with his new national team

Matt Richardson may have become public enemy No 1 in Australian cycling when he decamped to ride for the country of his birth – but the Commonwealth’s fastest man on two wheels reckons it’s all had “zero effect” on him.

And if the flyer now in Team England colours thinks there’s any lingering animosity towards him, having won two titles in the green-and-gold at the last Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, he promises to just use it as “fuel” for more success.

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Patrick Kane returning to Blackhawks on two-year deal

Patrick Kane returning to Blackhawks on two-year deal originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Patrick Kane is officially returning to Chicago.

The Blackhawks announced Thursday that the team agreed to a two-year contract with the former star, which will run through the 2027-28 season.

Kane was originally drafted by Chicago with the first overall pick in 2007, playing a pivotal role in three Stanley Cup championships and becoming one of the most important players in team history.

“Day in and day out for 16 seasons, Patrick captivated the city of Chicago with his dazzling skill, creating some of the most memorable moments in Blackhawks history as he helped bring our storied franchise back to the pinnacle of our sport,” Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement. “He’s shown on countless occasions that he knows what it takes to win at the highest levels, and we couldn’t be prouder for Patrick to once again call the United Center home and continue to shine in Chicago’s brightest lights.”

Rumors of Kane’s return began circulating last week.

Kane, who is among the franchise leaders in nearly every key offensive category, told former Blackhawks defenseman Chris Chelios he was deciding between the Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres when it came to his next move.

“I am not gonna lie to you guys, it is down to Buffalo and Chicago. I know that,” Chelios told David Haugh and Mike Mulligan on 104.3 The Score Wednesday morning.

Kane, who will turn 38 years old in November, is likely looking at his last contract in the NHL before he hangs up his skates, and he’s still got some gas in the tank, having scored 16 goals and dished out 41 assists with the Detroit Red Wings last season.

Kane was a fixture with the Blackhawks for more than a decade before the team traded him to the New York Rangers during the 2022-23 season. Since then he has played for the Rangers and Red Wings.

During a press conference discussing his own new five-year, $75 million deal, Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard — another No. 1 overall pick — said it would be “incredible” to play with Kane.

“That would be incredible to get to play with him and learn from him,” he said. “Hopefully he decides to come back, and you talk about kind of the legacy aspect of it, but just as a team, it would make us a way better team. He’s still an amazing player.”

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An Arizona Avalanche of offense romps D-Backs past Athletics 15-5

PHOENIX, AZ - JULY 22: Ryan Waldschmidt #15 of the Arizona Diamondbacks looks on after hitting a two-run home run in the fifth inning during the game between the Athletics and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Zach Gardner/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Whenever someone asks why I’m a fan of sports, I often point to any number of reasons from the simple – it’s entertaining – to the more esoteric – it’s a matter of civic pride. I also often answer that sports can offer a kind of catharsis that you can rarely find in our everyday lives. That’s particularly true for baseball which inherently creates tension through a lack of action – only for the eventual resolution to provide a special kind of resolution. I suspect the entire D-Backs’ offense felt an incredible kind of catharsis this afternoon. After losing a frustrating game in the series opener and needing extra-inning magic to eke out a win last night, the Diamondbacks were staring down a series loss against an Athletics team that seems stuck in neutral. Instead, the offense erupted for their highest run total in nearly two years to take a crucial series win as the team attempts to convince the front office to buy at the Trade Deadline or at least convince them not to sell.

The first time through the lineup, the D-Backs failed to generate much offense against rookie Gage Jump, making just his eleventh career start. The young lefty utilized his excellent fastball to generate several weak swings and misses along with plenty of weak contact. But starting with the second time through the lineup, the batters clearly made some adjustments beginning with Corbin Carroll who opened the team’s scoring with a solo shot to left field while Nolan Arenado followed with his own one batter later to knot the score at 2-2. That was just the amuse-bouche however as the main course came one inning later when the game unraveled for the rookie. Ketel Marte began with a leadoff double and scored on a wild pitch, Gabriel Moreno took Jump deep with his own solo shot, Arenado worked a walk and moved to second on yet another wild pitch, and Ildemaro Vargas doubled him in to end Jump’s afternoon. Amazingly, the fun wasn’t over as James McCann took the very first pitch from reliever Yunior Tur into the left field bleachers to put the Snakes up by five. Ryan Waldschmidt even got the proverbial monkey off his back with his first career homer at the big league level to cap off the inning and turn the game into a rout. And if you weren’t already full, the dessert course was just as much fun as the rest of the dinner. Carroll collected his major league-leading 11th triple and scored on yet another wild pitch, the D-Backs loaded the bases on three consecutive walks and then cashed them all in with knocks by McCann and Tim Tawa to turn the game into a true laugher. In all, the offense scored 14 runs in three innings and did it in impressive fashion with plenty of power, timely hitting, and excellent at-bats up and down the lineup. Every starter except for Geraldo Perdomo had at least one hit and the team had the same number of walks as strikeouts for the game. It’s hard to encapsulate and the video may do it even more justice:

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On the flip side, this felt like a perfect opportunity for Merrill Kelly to feel absolutely no pressure as his offense clearly had the game in hand and focus on trying to return to the form we know he can have. Instead, we saw much of the same type of struggles that have plagued him all season: an inability to put hitters away, a lack of command that leads to walks, and depending all too much on the changeup as a putaway pitch. The final line on the veteran for the afternoon (5.0 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 3 K) isn’t bad, but it masks some bad luck on the Athletics bouncing into two separate double play balls. Now that those pesky Athletics are out of the way, here’s hoping the team can quickly regroup for the latest in “most important series of the year” with about a week and a half until the Trade Deadline.

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Fantasy Baseball Closer Report: Aroldis Chapman still getting it done for surging Red Sox

In this week's Closer Report, Edwin Díaz is checking off all of the boxes in his recovery as he nears his return to the Dodgers. And Aroldis Chapman is still getting it done as a key piece on a surging Red Sox team, picking up four saves this week to help Boston tie a franchise record with 15 consecutive wins. All that and more as we cover the last week in saves around baseball.

⚾️ Baseball is back! MLB returns to NBC and Peacock in 2026! In addition to becoming the exclusive home of Sunday Night Baseball, NBC Sports will broadcast MLB Sunday Leadoff, “Opening Day” and Labor Day primetime games, the first round of the MLB Draft, the entire Wild Card round of the postseason, and much more.

2026 Fantasy Baseball Closer Rankings

MLB: Houston Astros at Washington Nationals
Fantasy Baseball Steals Report: Nasim Nuñez can’t be stopped, Marlins hit untimely skid
Who is stealing bases, who isn’t, why, and how?

▶ Tier 1

Mason Miller - San Diego Padres
Jhoan Duran - Philadelphia Phillies
Cade Smith - Cleveland Guardians
Louis Varland - Toronto Blue Jays
Josh Hader - Houston Astros
Bryan Baker - Tampa Bay Rays

Miller struck out the side in a non-save situation against the Royals on Friday. Trade rumors are swirling around the 27-year-old flamethrower. The Padres would ideally attach a big contract to a Miller trade, but moving him to replenish the farm system is a real possibility. He's been the best reliever in baseball all season, posting a 0.89 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, and 75 strikeouts over 40 2/3 innings.

Duran made two appearances in non-save situations against the Mets and Dodgers. He's been an easy number two in the rankings, enjoying a career year with a 1.32 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and 50 strikeouts over 34 innings while converting 24 saves.

Smith struck out two in a clean inning of work against the Pirates on Saturday to fall in line for a win, then picked up a save against the Twins on Tuesday. He's been steady all season as one of the top closers, converting 29 saves with a 2.72 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 66 strikeouts over 46 1/3 innings.

Varland converted his 20th save against the White Sox on Saturday with a clean inning of work, striking out one. He's allowed just six runs all season for a 1.08 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 68 strikeouts over 50 frames as the top closer breakout.

Hader has been outstanding since coming off the injured list. He made three appearances this week, giving up one run in a non-save situation on Monday against the Marlins before bouncing back with a save on Tuesday against the Marlins. Meanwhile, Baker pitched a clean inning with one strikeout against the Blue Jays on Wednesday for his 26th save. He's posted a 1.69 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, and 41 strikeouts over 37 1/3 innings.

▶ Tier 2

David Bednar - New York Yankees
Aroldis Chapman - Boston Red Sox
Andrés Muñoz - Seattle Mariners
Raisel Iglesias- Atlanta Braves
Jacob Latz - Texas Rangers
Trevor Megill - Milwaukee Brewers
Tanner Scott - Los Angeles Dodgers

Make it 17 straight scoreless appearances for Bednar. He recorded five outs against the Dodgers on Sunday, striking out two batters to pick up a win. The 31-year-old right-hander has posted a 2.72 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 47 strikeouts over 41 2/3 innings.

Chapman was busy out of the break, locking down four saves with four scoreless appearances against the Rays and Orioles, helping the Red Sox extend their winning streak to 15 games before falling to the Orioles in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader. The 38-year-old left-hander looked like a prime trade candidate at one point. Now, he's a key piece on a surging Boston team.

Muñoz has seen his fortune turn with 12 straight scoreless appearances. He pitched two perfect innings this week, picking up his 17th save against the Giants on Sunday. Jose Ferrer, Gabe Speier, and Eduardo Bazardo have all been excellent behind Muñoz, giving Seattle one of the best bullpens in baseball.

Iglesias made back-to-back appearances in non-save situations, giving up one run against the Rangers on Sunday. The 36-year-old right-hander has been consistent in his 12th season, posting a 2.36 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, and 38 strikeouts over 34 1/3 innings while converting 19 saves.

Latz worked a four-out save against the Braves on Saturday, striking out one batter for his 19th save of the season. Jakob Junis was activated from the injured list on Saturday and stepped back into a setup role.

Megill was on an excellent run, making his 15th straight scoreless appearance with an inning of work against the Marlins on Saturday. That streak was snapped with a run allowed against the Mets on Wednesday, but he held on for his 16th save of the season. Meanwhile, Scott is back on track with four consecutive scoreless outings. He picked up his 15th save against the Phillies on Tuesday. Edwin Diaz could be on tap to return from the injured list sometime in the next week as he makes his way back from elbow surgery to remove loose bodies. He's currently on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City. He'll throw on Thursday in his first back-to-back, then again on Sunday before potentially being back with the Dodgers next Tuesday.

▶ Tier 3

Riley O'Brien - St. Louis Cardinals
Grant Taylor - Chicago White Sox
Paul Sewald - Arizona Diamondbacks
Emilio Pagán - Cincinnati Reds
Kenley Jansen - Detroit Tigers
Yoendrys Gómez - Minnesota Twins
Devin Williams - New York Mets

O'Brien picked up a save against the Diamondbacks on Friday, then gave up two runs to blow a save chance and take the loss against the Angels on Monday. He bounced back with a scoreless inning on Wednesday for his 26th save. Meanwhile, Taylor continues to solidify his role as the go-to guy in the ninth inning, picking up a save against the Blue Jays on Sunday with a scoreless inning. Three of his five saves have come in his last four appearances.

Sewald has surrendered at least one run in seven of his last 11 outings. He took a loss against the Cardinals on Friday, held on for a save on Saturday, then gave up two runs to blow a save against the Athletics on Tuesday. The 36-year-old right-hander holds a 4.95 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, and 42 strikeouts over 36 1/3 innings. Despite Sewald's 23 saves, if the Diamondbacks are to make a run for a playoff bid, they're going to need better performance in the late innings.

Pagán gave up a run in a non-save situation on Sunday in Colorado, then worked back-to-back scoreless appearances to lock down a pair of saves against the Mariners. The 35-year-old right-hander has made six appearances since coming off the injured list, stepping back into the closer role.

Jansen made two scoreless appearances this week, striking out two batters in each. He fell in line for a win on Monday against the Cubs. The 38-year-old right-hander has converted 11 saves with a 4.21 ERA across 25 2/3 innings and could be a trade candidate at the deadline. And in Minnesota, Gómez worked a scoreless inning against the Cubs on Friday for his 12th save.

There was some speculation regarding a potential role shift for Williams, but he worked the first save chance out of the break, tossing a clean inning with one strikeout last Thursday against the Phillies.

▶ Tier 4

Gregory Soto/Mason Montgomery - Pittsburgh Pirates
Kaleb Kilian - San Francisco Giants
Clayton Beeter - Washington Nationals
Jordan Romano - Colorado Rockies
Pete Fairbanks - Miami Marlins
Jacob Webb/Trent Thornton - Chicago Cubs

Soto was charged with a blown save on Saturday against the Guardians. Montgomery recorded the final out in the eighth and pitched a scoreless ninth on Wednesday against the Yankees before Soto picked up a save in the tenth. The two are trending in different directions, with Montgomery on a nine-game scoreless streak.

No saves for Kilian this week. He gave up a run against the Royals on Monday to take a loss. He remains at eight saves, with his last one on July 4. Beeter is also at eight saves after converting one on Sunday against the Athletics. He's given up at least one run in each of his last three appearances and holds a 3.94 ERA across 40 1/3 innings.

Romano worked a clean inning with two strikeouts to pick up a save against the Nationals on Tuesday, his seventh of the season and third since joining the Rockies. He's allowed one run with an 8/4 K/BB ratio across 5 2/3 innings with Colorado.

Fairbanks gave up three runs to blow a save and take the loss against the Brewers on Sunday. He's converted 13 saves, but it's come with a 7.42 ERA and 1.52 WHIP over 30 1/3 innings. And in Chicago, no saves for the Cubs' committee this week.

▶ Tier 5

Alex Lange - Kansas City Royals
Tyler Wells/Andrew Kittredge - Baltimore Orioles
Elvis Alvarado/Hogan Harris - Athletics
Ryan Zeferjahn/Kirby Yates - Los Angeles Angels

Lange blew two save chances this week before locking down his ninth against the Giants on Tuesday. In Baltimore, three different relievers were charged with a blown save this week for the Orioles, including Kittredge, Rico Garcia, and Yennier Cano. Meanwhile, Wells picked up a save on Friday before taking a loss on Monday. And Harris picked up a save against the Diamondbacks on Monday, his first save since June 10.

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NBA Trade Rumors: Are the Jazz part of the LeBron James decision?

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - DECEMBER 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers smiles during the game against the Utah Jazz on December 18, 2025 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

We’re at the part of the summer where LeBron James is controlling the basketball narratives because there’s nothing to talk about. Apparently, the decision would have happened by now had Adam Silver not rushed him.

Apparently, James is just like us and gets irritated by Adam Silver too.

But that may just be a ruse. It appears that Klutch would like to make a trade happen that would get Anthony Davis to either Cleveland or Golden State, and that might help James make his decision.

But how would this affect the Jazz?

Well, it appears the Jazz might be willing to take part in a multi-team deal that would send Jarrett Allen to Utah, which makes sense with the departure of Walker Kessler.

If this report from Marty Mush is to be believed, maybe there’s a shot at Utah getting their replacement center? Allen has a three-year $90M deal and could be the answer Utah is looking for now that Kessler is gone. It would be remarkable for Utah to keep the assets they got from the Lakers and still get a starting-caliber center as they enter the season.

That said, it appears this is dependent on the Wizards, Cavs, and Golden State as well, and if some sort of deal can be hashed out.

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Paul Blackburn is no longer a Yankees secret as he continues stellar work

New York Yankees pitcher Paul Blackburn reacting after getting out of the seventh inning with men on base.
Yankees pitcher Paul Blackburn reacting after getting out of the seventh inning with men on base.

For weeks, Aaron Boone considered Paul Blackburn a secret.

Despite the right-handed reliever piling up zeroes out of the bullpen, he was going unnoticed.

That’s beginning to change.

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“About a week ago, 10 days ago, somebody asked me about the job he had done,” Boone said after Blackburn delivered two innings of shutout relief to help the Yankees take Game 2 of Wednesday’s doubleheader over the Pirates, 2-0, and salvage a split in The Bronx. “It had been about a month-plus of some really good work — whether it be a high-leverage situation, whether it’s giving you multiple innings on a given night.

“It’s been about six weeks where he’s gotten his stuff in a really good place. He’s another guy like [Brent] Headrick, you feel good about going through lefties and righties. He’s been big for us.”

Yankees pitcher Paul Blackburn (58) reacts to getting out of the seventh inning with men on when the Yankees played the Pirates in Game 2 of a doubleheader on Wednesday. Robert Sabo for NY Post

The veteran righty is enjoying a terrific year, pitching to a 2.00 ERA after his latest performance. He has given up just one earned run over his past 14 appearances dating back to June 21 spanning 21 ¹/₃ innings.

After using high-leverage arms David Bednar, Fernando Cruz and Headrick in the opener, Blackburn’s two frames were integral to the victory. He inherited a runner on first base in the seventh, and when Jared Triolo stole second and went to third on catcher Ali Sánchez’s throwing error, the Pirates were set up to take the lead.

But Blackburn struck out Ryan O’Hearn and Marcell Ozuna to escape trouble, and the Yankees broke through in the bottom half of the inning.

The 32-year-old veteran joined the Yankees last year after he was released by the Mets in August. He didn’t perform well, but he enjoyed his time in The Bronx and returned on a one-year deal. This year, he has taken off.

“Just when I showed up last year, I didn’t know what to expect,” Blackburn said. “I walked in, there was a plan for me from day one. It just seemed like they were interested in helping me and getting me back to where they thought I could be.”

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One major factor: increased velocity. It is up across the board for Blackburn. He is averaging a career-best 94.2 mph on his sinker, up from 92.6 a year ago, and it has made his secondary pitches more effective.

“I had a full offseason this year,” Blackburn said. “I focused on little different things I needed to get stronger and [gain] more mobility. Just ran with it.”

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Braves News: Trade deadline, Martin Perez returns, more

ANAHEIM, CA - JULY 18: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Saturday, July 18, 2026 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Tony Macon/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The trade deadline fast approaches and (stop me if you’ve heard this before) the Braves HAVE to add at least one quality starting pitcher if they want to expect any serious postseason success (setting aside the performance on offense). Without adding a postseason-quality starter, they would need to operate a three or four man rotation that would involve at least two of Bryce Elder, Grant Holmes, Reynaldo Lopez, Martin Perez, JR Ritchie, Owen Murphy, Didier Fuentes, Spencer Schwellenbach, and AJ Smith-Shawver. While you can squint in that list and see a pathway or two for passable postseason pitching, it’s certainly unlikely and only so much can be papered over by creative pitcher usage. Trades are hard to negotiate and this front office has been very firm on sticking to their value judgements, but this team simply cannot be a serious postseason contender (outside of general baseball variance) without adding at least one playoff-quality starter.

Braves News

The Braves brought back Martin Perez, sending down JR Ritchie, after he covered 3.2 innings Tuesday.

Scott discussed four trades that would make sense for the Braves, at least in terms of realistic player additions.

The Braves won a weird game against the Padres 7-6.

MLB News

Fangraphs continued their annual trade value rankings, with spots 30-21.

Red Sox’ ace Garrett Crochet is hoping to return from injury in time for the playoffs.

The Royals traded a pitching prospect to the Astros for Nate Pearson.

Bobby Witt is hitting the IL with lower back tightness, which hopefully is a short term ailment.

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Pittsburgh Penguins' 2026-27 Lineup Projections: Forwards

With August just around the corner, the onset of NHL training camps is drawing nearer and nearer, which means time is beginning to dwindle for any kind of roster reshuffling prior to the 2026-27 season.

And, if general manager and president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas and the Pittsburgh Penguins elect not to change anything up in the meantime, things will be quite interesting once the season gets underway.

The Penguins have been a relatively active team since the end of the 2025-26 season, as they have added a few players via trade and free agency. But through that addition, a bit of a logjam has been created both in the forward unit and on the blue line, even if it gives the team a whole lot of options as far as lineups.

There is particular intrigue in the forward unit. There are a handful of prospects who should be pushing for NHL roster spots next season and a few more seasoned players like David Gustafsson and - depending on health - Filip Hallander, but there are also 14 more established NHL players in front of them to beat out. 

For these purposes, we can't assume that any trades will be made, however likely it may seem. So, barring there is no roster movement prior to training camp and the beginning of the season, what will the Penguins' forward lineup look like?

Even If Robertson's Door Might Not Be Shut Entirely, Penguins Must Shift GearsEven If Robertson's Door Might Not Be Shut Entirely, Penguins Must Shift GearsWith Dallas Stars superstar winger Jason Robertson inking a one-year deal with Dallas Tuesday to avoid arbitration, the Penguins - rumored to be in on Robertson - must look elsewhere if Dubas is to follow through on his summer plans.

Projected forward lineup:

Rickard Rakell - Sidney Crosby - Bryan Rust

Egor Chinakhov - Tommy Novak - Evgeni Malkin

Andrei Kuzmenko - Ben Kindel - Nicholas Robertson

Connor Dewar - Blake Lizotte - Elmer Soderblom

Extras: Hendrix Lapierre, Justin Brazeau

Center or not?

Ultimately, the decision was made to place Rakell back on the first line with Crosby and Rust. Simply put, it's a line that has mostly worked for the Penguins in the last several years, and it's hard to remove Rust or Rakell from that line when they're hovering around 30 goals every season.

However, the Penguins were very impressed with the work Rakell put in at center last season, so it would not be surprising to see him start the season centering the second line. He needs to put in some work in the faceoff dot to be truly effective there, but all other aspects of his game improved pretty substantially playing the position down last season's home stretch without Crosby and Malkin - and he also registered 14 goals and 24 points in a 20-game stretch during that time.

Rakell's versatility gives the Penguins options for their top-nine configuration, and it opens the door for some others like Kuzmenko and Robertson to get looks alongside Crosby. It would also help bolster his trade value if that's a road the Penguins are still interested in. 

Yes, It's High Time For The Penguins To Trade One Of Their Best Wingers. But It's Not The One You Think It Should Be.Yes, It's High Time For The Penguins To Trade One Of Their Best Wingers. But It's Not The One You Think It Should Be.The Pittsburgh Penguins have three valuable trade commodities and find themselves at a crossroads in terms of direction - and one player should be the first domino to fall.

Breakout candidates

Well, the obvious answers here are Kindel and Robertson, as both are young players with potentially higher ceilings to reach, especially in Kindel's case. 

As an 18-year-old, Kindel put up 17 goals and 35 points in 77 games, and that was with him largely being deployed as the team's third-line center with a rotating cast of characters on either wing. One thing he should benefit from this season right off the bat is the potential for more consistency on his wings, as Robertson brings speed and scoring ability and Kuzmenko - while not the most fleet of foot - can also put the puck in the back of the net and has some creativity to boot.

There is also room for him to work his way up the ladder to second-line center by the end of the season, which should increase his production ceiling even more.

Robertson, 24, had a similar line to Kindel last season with 16 goals and 32 points in 78 games, which were largely played in Toronto's bottom-six. There is certainly a higher goal-scoring ceiling to reach, and if he can develop some chemistry with Kindel or earn a spot in the top-six - depending on how the Penguins decide to deploy Rakell - it stands to reason that he should find some offensive momentum in Pittsburgh.

Kuzmenko could also be considered a bit of a breakout candidate, as the 30-year-old has not been able to replicate his 39-goal, 74-point rookie campaign with the Vancouver Canucks. The talent is there, the execution just needs to show up again - and he needs to stay healthy.

Finally, don't forget about Soderblom: He may not be scoring 20, but he showed legitimate signs of offensive upside with his ability on the forecheck and soft hands last season, and both Dewar and Lizotte have enough offensive upside to help elevate Soderblom's production.

New Penguins Forward Predicted To Have Breakout YearNew Penguins Forward Predicted To Have Breakout YearCould Nick Robertson end up having a big year for the Penguins?

How high for Chinakhov?

Chinakhov - who signed a three-year extension earlier this month - is, without a doubt, arguably going to be the most fascinating player to watch for the Penguins next season. 

As was well-documented last season, Chinakhov had just three goals and six points in 29 games with the Columbus Blue Jackets prior to his late-December arrival in Pittsburgh. Then, a switch flipped, and he closed out the season with 18 goals and 36 points in 43 games with Pittsburgh.

Was his half-season sample in Pittsburgh a sign of things to come? If so, the Penguins are looking at having another 35-goal, 70-point player on their hands, and there is some belief in the organization that his ceiling is even higher than that, bordering on star potential. 

But, if not, it would be a massive blow to their top-six. He also has to stay healthy, too, which has been a challenge throughout his career. 

Chinakhov has immense goal-scoring talent. If he can find a way to continue replicating the success he had with the Penguins last season, that will be a huge deal for a team that is looking to take steps toward sustainable contention next season and beyond.

Penguins' 3-Year Deal For Chinakhov Tells Story Of Shifting MarketPenguins' 3-Year Deal For Chinakhov Tells Story Of Shifting MarketThe Pittsburgh Penguins bet on the talent of an enticing young player in Egor Chinkahov when they signed him to a three-year, $18.75 million extension Sunday, and it is yet another signifier of a rapidly changing landscape in the NHL.

Pushy pushy prospects

Unfortunately, the Penguins' prospects on the brink of regular NHL minutes - as well as Gustafsson and Hallander - are likely to be the ones to lose out if the team goes into training camp with its roster as constructed.

But that doesn't mean they can't earn a spot.

Take Kindel last season, who was not remotely supposed to be in the conversation for a full-time NHL roster spot prior to camp. His, along with defensive prospect Harrison Brunicke's, camp was so impressive that Pittsburgh had no choice but to keep him around for at least a nine-game trial. Then, when Kindel took that and exceeded expectations even further, he earned a permanent spot.

That's probably what it is going to take for guys like Rutger McGroarty, Avery Hayes, Tristan Broz, and Ville Koivunen to earn NHL roster spots out of camp, especially since all will be waivers-exempt except Koivunen, who is still an RFA without a contract. They will have to beat out the likes of Lapierre, Brazeau, and Soderblom in order to make the cut, and they probably won't make the cut if they figure to be spending time in the press box.

Realistically, there may be one NHL roster spot for the taking. No one in the projected top-nine will come out of the lineup, and neither will Dewar and Lizotte - and that's likely to be the case regardless of how impressive a camp any of the prospects have.

So, it's an uphilll climb for all of them, but it's not an impossible one. Tanner Howe, Mikhail Ilyin, and Bill Zonnon will probably be part of the mix as well, but given what each player has shown at the AHL level, the other four are probably closer on paper. 

But, never say never. At the very least, the forward battle at training camp this season figures to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.

Opinion: If Penguins Are To Let Youth Shine, They Need To Make Some RoomOpinion: If Penguins Are To Let Youth Shine, They Need To Make Some RoomIf the Penguins walk into the season with their roster as currenty constructed, it leaves no room for some of their NHL-ready youth to have a chance at establishing themselves in the NHL.

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Orioles halt Red Sox’s franchise record-tying 15-game win streak with 5-1 win to split twinbill

BOSTON — The Baltimore Orioles ended Boston’s franchise record-tying 15-game winning streak behind Kyle Bradish’s six innings of one-run ball, defeating the Red Sox 5-1 in the nightcap of a doubleheader on Wednesday.

It was Boston’s first loss since a 10-2 setback to Washington at Fenway Park on July 1.

The Red Sox won the opener 6-3 to match the club’s 80-year-old record. Boston’s 1946 team that won 15 straight was led by Ted Williams and won the American League pennant.

This year’s Red Sox streak was the longest in the majors since St. Louis also won 15 straight in September of 2021.

Dylan Beavers had a two-run single in a four-run first inning for Baltimore, which avoided a three-game sweep and won for the 11th time in 16 games.

Masataka Yoshida had an RBI single for Boston.

The Orioles had a season-high seven-game winning streak halted in the series opener on Monday before a rainout Tuesday.

Making his first start after agreeing to a $90 million, five-year contract for 2027-31 on Saturday, the 29-year-old Bradish (7-9) gave up four hits with four strikeouts and a walk.

Three Orioles relievers combined to allow one hit.

After the Red Sox took a 4-0 lead in the day game, Baltimore knocked out Eduardo Rivera (0-1), who retired only two batters, with its four runs.

The first run came in on Rivera’s wild pitch. After Beavers made it 3-0 with his single, he scored on Johnathan Rodriguez’s double off the Green Monster.

Up next

Orioles: Haven’t named a starter for their series opener at home on Friday against Atlanta.

Red Sox: Host last-place Toronto for a three-game series starting Friday.

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Yankees know they need ‘everyone to step up’ as offensive woes deepen

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows New York Yankees left fielder Cody Bellinger (35) strikes out during the 10th inning when the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the New York Yankees 5-3 in game one of a doubleheader Wednesday, July 22, 2026, Image 2 shows New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe (11) reacts after he strikes out during the fifth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Yankee Stadium, Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Yankees

The mood in the clubhouse shifted as much as the sky, as the frustration of a matinee was overshadowed by the celebration of a nightcap. 

But there wasn’t much difference between the Yankees’ 2-0 series-clinching win over the Pirates and the 5-3 extra-inning loss that ended hours earlier, as their struggling offense was held without a run in 16 of 18 innings. 

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The Yankees have been held to fewer than six runs in 28 of their past 30 games and have scored a total of 18 runs in the six games since the All-Star break, including eight in Monday’s win over Pittsburgh. 

“We gotta improve there,” manager Aaron Boone said. “I feel like I’ve said that a lot here over the last month. We know we gotta produce better offensively, and consistently, night in and night out. We’re working to get that done. For us to reach our peak we gotta get some guys going and be more consistent.” 

It will have to come from a lineup that has offered few reasons to believe — which has ranked 28th in runs, 30th in batting average (.206), 30th in on-base percentage (.262), 26th in slugging percentage (.366) and second in strikeouts in the past month. 

It will have to come without Giancarlo Stanton, who is “much closer” to returning, according to Boone, but not close enough to offer a timeline.

New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe (11) reacts after he strikes out during the fifth inning in Game 2 of a doubleheader against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Yankee Stadium, Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

And it will have to come without Aaron Judge, who has been out since May 31, when the Yankees were 13 games over .500. 

Now, they are 12 games over .500. 

“It’s Aaron Judge, it’s a massive presence,” Boone said of the impact of the captain’s absence. “But again, he’s not there right now. Look at these names, we have a lot of good names here, capable, and we gotta step it up a little better.” 

Those names combined for 12 strikeouts and six hits (four singles) in the first game of the doubleheader, while batting 1-for-10 with runners in scoring position. All three runs in Game 1 came on Ben Rice’s 30th home run of the season in the seventh inning. 

New York Yankees left fielder Cody Bellinger (35) strikes out during the 10th inning when the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the New York Yankees 5-3 in game 1 of a doubleheader on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Robert Sabo for NY Post

Game 2 offered even less optimism, as the Yankees recorded just two hits through the first six innings. Then, a pair of once-hyped prospects briefly inspired hope again. 

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After Cody Bellinger worked a one-out walk in the bottom of the seventh, Jasson Domínguez brought the first run home with a two-out double to left. On the next pitch, Anthony Volpe ripped a hit to left — following a pair of defensive misplays — to record his second RBI since June 20. 

The struggling youngsters saved the day. 

But who will save the season? 

“We need everyone to step up,” Boone said.