LOS ANGELES — Houston Rockets star Kevin Durant returned to the lineup in Game 2 against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday after missing the opening game of the series due to a knee injury suffered in practice last week. Durant, after testing his knee during warmups, was not on any minutes restriction but struggled particularly in the second half of the Rockets’ 101-94 loss.
Durant led the Rockets with 23 points, but 20 of them came in the first half. He also committed nine turnovers as he struggled to react to an array of double-teams thrown at him by the Lakers. Houston shot only 40% from the field and went 7 of 29 on 3-point attempts to fall into an 0-2 series hole to a Los Angeles team playing without leading scorers Luka Dončić (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique).
Durant, who popped up as questionable on the injury report last week, went through his warmup routine at Crypto.com Arena less than two hours before Game 1 but was ruled out shortly after. The Rockets lost 107-98. Rockets coach Ime Udoka said before Game 1 that Durant, 37, underwent imaging and “nothing major” came up. Durant’s “limited movement” was more the cause of him missing Game 1 than pain tolerance. After the game, Udoka said the team was not surprised that Durant was unable to play in Game 1.
“I don’t think it was a surprise to us,” Udoka said. “We knew he got banged up. We looked at a bunch of different things without him. If he could go, he could go, but it looked doubtful based on how he was moving the last few days. We prepped for different lineups without him, alternative starting lineups if he wasn’t available. Late to everybody publicly, but we knew it might be a good chance he was out.”
In his first season with Houston, Durant missed just four games total during the regular season. The Rockets went 4-0 in those games in the regular season without Durant in the lineup. Durant entered the playoffs averaging 26 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists since being traded from the Phoenix Suns last offseason.
During the 2025-26 campaign, Durant logged 2,840 minutes, which was the most he has played in 12 years. Durant finished second in the NBA in minutes played, only behind teammate Amen Thompson.
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Only one of the four games Durant missed during the regular season was because of an injury. He missed a game against the Indiana Pacers in early February due to an ankle injury. Durant missed two games due to personal reasons early in the season and was held out alongside the rest of the starters in the regular season finale against the Memphis Grizzlies earlier this month.
After years of supporting the promotion, it has just been revealed that a major AEW deal is set to come to an end soon. Although this has been hinted at for some time now, an official press release has now been made.
Triller TV is a streaming service dedicated to combat sports. This has featured mixed martial arts (MMA), boxing, and wrestling. In the case of wrestling shows, this has featured not only weekly television of major promotions, but pay-per-views as well. They have been the international partner of the Jacksonville-based promotion for some time now.
Last month, many noticed that the platform was no longer accepting new subscribers for their AEW Plus subscription. With the launch of MYAEW, it seems that this partnership is set to come to an end. In an email sent to subscribers, Triller TV confirmed that they will no longer carry events by All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor moving forward.
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The subscriptions will end at the next billing date, but pay-per-views that fans previously purchased will still be available to replay.
“We’re writing to let you know that AEW Plus is being discontinued. AEW and ROH PPVs are also no longer available for purchase on TrillerTV. If you have an active AEW Plus subscription, it will end on your next billing date. You’ll have full access until that date. If you have an active AEW Plus subscription, it will end on your next billing date. You’ll have full access until that date.”
Where can fans watch AEW?
For fans in the United States, there are two ways to watch Dynamite and Collision. These are broadcast live on TBS and on HBO Max. In the case of pay-per-views, there are several platforms available for those in America, such as HBO Max, Amazon Prime, PPV.com, DAZN, and many others. For those in Canada and Mexico, the weekly shows can be viewed on TSN and Fox Sports, respectively.
MYAEW is now the main streaming platform for international fans as they can catch both the promotion’s weekly shows and pay-per-views. There are several plans fans can choose from if they wish to only watch Dynamite and Collision, or have the pay-per-views as part of their subscription. ROH shows can also be viewed on the platform.
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AEW is where the best wrestle! Make sure to tune in for Wednesday Night #AEWDynamite LIVE COAST-TO-COAST this week at 8 pm ET/7 pm CT/6 pm MT/5 pm PT on @TBSNetwork + @SportsOnMAX, THIS WEDNESDAY!
It is now the end of an era as Triller TV is no longer a platform in partnership with the Tony Khan-led company. But their own original platform looks to be a great way for international fans to catch all the action.
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Bern has scored two tries in each of England’s wins over Scotland and Ireland in the opening two rounds of the Six Nations.
She believes adding more try-scoring threats to England’s attack can be key to fuelling record crowds in the absence of opposition who can threaten their winning streak.
Ten of England’s 16 tries in the knockout stages of last year’s World Cup came via their forwards as they leaned on the power of their pack and set-piece en route to glory.
Emily Scarratt, the Red Roses’ all-time leading points scorer, has since taken up the role.
“Where we’re trying to evolve to now is being threats from anywhere,” said Bern.
“We recognise that we won a World Cup, and it was great, but we definitely could have made improvements in our attack.
“We always talk about how even if something’s not broken, we can break it and start again. Just because it worked doesn’t mean we can’t change anything.
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“We want people to come to the stadium and see something different every week.
“We want to be entertaining. We want to show that all of our Red Roses have amazing abilities to carry, fend and play an exciting style of rugby to showcase to the world.”
England face Wales, who have lost 11 of their past 12 Tests, at a sold-out Ashton Gate in Bristol on Saturday (14:15 BST kick-off).
Former Australian captain Allan Border is currently in Mumbai as part of his India visit linked to the International Masters League, and the trip has also brought back memories of one of the defining milestones of his career. Border, who famously led Australia to the 1987 Cricket World Cup title, looked back at his journey but also turned his attention to a rising name in Indian cricket.Speaking in an interaction with Mid-day, Border was asked about Rajasthan Royals’ teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who at just 14 has already made a strong impression with his fearless hitting and raw power.
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IPL 2026: RR assistant coach Vikram Rathour speaks after loss to KKR
“I think Vaibhav’s one hell of a player, a great talent. I have never seen any batter at the age of 14 or 15, hitting a cricket ball with so much of power,” said Allan Border.The emphasis in Border’s praise was clear. It wasn’t just about age or hype, but the extraordinary force with which Sooryavanshi is striking the ball. Coming from a former World Cup-winning captain, the remark highlights how unusual the teenager’s hitting ability appears even at this early stage.At the same time, Border avoided making long-term predictions about the youngster’s future.“Of course, I can’t predict at this moment if he will go on to become a very successful Test cricketer or not, but I can clearly see glimpses of Brian Lara in him. He has a long way to go, but he sure can hit that ball across all parts of the ground,” assessed Border.While the comparison to Lara will naturally attract attention, Border’s observation was more about batting traits than placing expectations. He pointed to Sooryavanshi’s range of shots and ability to access different parts of the ground, rather than drawing a direct parallel in stature.However, Border also made it clear where the youngster must improve next.“Vaibhav must now learn how to tighten his defence.”It was a short but significant assessment. While Sooryavanshi’s power-hitting has already set him apart, developing a stronger defensive game will be crucial if he is to build a long and adaptable career.So far, the numbers underline his explosive impact. Sooryavanshi has scored 246 runs in six matches at an average of 41 and a blistering strike rate of 236.54, placing him among the top five run-getters in IPL 2026. He has also smashed 44 sixes since his IPL debut, more than any other player in that period.The early signs are electric, but as Border pointed out, the next step will be about balance and turning raw power into complete batting substance.
Jofra Archer eyes history for Rajasthan Royals in IPL (Image: IPL)
Jofra Archer is on the verge of scripting history for the Rajasthan Royals, needing just three more wickets to become the franchise’s all-time leading wicket-taker. The England speedster could surpass Shane Watson when RR take on Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.Archer has been a key weapon for the Royals this season, particularly in the powerplay, where his pace and control have consistently troubled opposition batters. With LSG’s top order struggling for consistency, the upcoming clash presents a perfect opportunity for Archer to reach the landmark.
Jofra Archer’s impact for Rajasthan Royals
Since making his IPL debut in 2018, Archer has been a vital part of the Royals setup, representing the “Men in Pink” in five out of six seasons. His only stint away from the franchise came with the Mumbai Indians, where he had a relatively underwhelming run. In 53 matches for RR, Archer has picked up 65 wickets at an impressive average of 24.47, with best figures of 3/15 and an economy rate of 7.79. In IPL 2026 so far, he has claimed eight wickets in six matches at an average of 22.37, with best figures of 2/19.Currently, Shane Watson tops the Royals’ wicket-taking charts with 67 wickets in 84 matches between 2008 and 2015. Close behind are Yuzvendra Chahal (66 wickets in 46 matches) and Siddharth Trivedi (65 wickets in 76 matches). With Archer level on 65 wickets, just three more scalps will see him move past Watson and etch his name in the franchise’s history books.Archer’s form extends beyond the IPL. In 16 T20 matches this year, he has taken 21 wickets at an average of 25.19. He was also England’s second-highest wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup, picking up 11 wickets in eight matches. Match Preview: LSG Under Pressure at HomeLucknow Super Giants return to the Ekana Stadium under pressure, having lost four of their six matches this season and still searching for their first home win. Their biggest concern remains an inconsistent top order, which has repeatedly forced them into recovery situations.In contrast, Rajasthan Royals arrive in better form, currently placed fourth on the points table. Their strength in the powerplay, led by Archer, gives them a clear edge heading into the contest.LSG will look towards young pacer Prince Yadav to counter RR’s aggressive start, but much will depend on whether their batting unit can finally click. With home advantage yet to translate into results, Lucknow must address their issues quickly to stay in the playoff race.
LOS ANGELES — LeBron James had 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, and the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers outlasted the Houston Rockets for a 101-94 victory Tuesday night and a stunning 2-0 lead in their first-round playoff series.
Marcus Smart had 25 points with five 3-pointers and seven assists for the Lakers, who have twice overcome the absences of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves with a comprehensive team effort led by the 41-year-old James. Los Angeles did it in Game 2 despite the return of Kevin Durant, who scored just three of his 23 points in the second half against the Lakers’ tenacious defence.
“We executed the game plan offensively and defensively, shored up some of our mistakes from Game 1, and just got into a dogfight,” James said. “When we have two big guns out like we have, we’ve all got to pick up our play, and that’s all it’s about. We’re all just trying to make contributions on offence and seize the opportunity.”
Luke Kennard scored 23 points for Los Angeles, which nursed a small lead throughout the fourth quarter of Game 2. Smart found James streaking down the lane for a theatrical two-handed dunk with 55 seconds left, and Kennard added two late free throws to ice it.
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Game 3 is Friday in Houston.
Alperen Sengun had 20 points and 11 rebounds for the fifth-seeded Rockets, who again struggled offensively even with Durant making his Houston playoff debut. Jabari Smith Jr. scored 18 points and Amen Thompson had 16, but the Rockets made only 40.4% of their shots and managed just seven 3-pointers.
Three days after he missed the series opener with a right knee bruise, Durant took only 12 shots and had nine turnovers to begin his fourth career playoff matchup against James. The superstars previously met in the NBA Finals in 2012, 2017 and 2018.
“They started doubling me from possession one,” Durant said. “I’ve got to do better and not put my teammates in bad positions when I’m swinging the ball. … We’re just not making shots, to be honest. We’re not shooting the ball well. We’re missing a lot of layups. I just think that’s the difference in the game. They’re making shots. Smart was the guy that knocked down shots for them today. Kennard, too.”
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Durant blocked Kennard’s shot on the first possession of Game 2, but then got in early foul trouble while the Lakers again streaked to a large first-half lead.
The Lakers are getting exceptional post-season play from Smart, the longtime Celtics guard who joined Los Angeles this season. Although he missed much of the regular-season stretch run due to injury, Smart has immediately added toughness and playmaking acumen to the Lakers’ supporting cast.
“He just had a killer game tonight,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said of Smart. “He did a great job defensively. He made shots. He’s an unbelievable player.”
Both Smart and Kennard went 8 for 13 from the field, combining for eight 3-pointers.
Wthe 2026 NFL Draft kicking off on Thursday, here are our updated history summary capsules for the top college football programs in the West.
The tables below include the total number of players drafted all time, according to 247Sports, along with each program’s highest-ever pick, their most recent, and all-time First-Rounders, the number of players taken in 2025, and the most recent year without a pick.
Among college programs in the West, USC leads all schools with 533 draft picks, with 88 of them taken in the First Round.
Amazingly, the Trojans have had at least one player drafted every year since 1938, and at least two players taken in all but four of those years (1936, 1937, 1938, and 1998).
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On the other end of the spectrum, only 10 Air Force players have been selected in its history, none of them First-Rounders.
Over the past couple of days, I have previewed the top defensive and offensive 2026 NFL draft prospects in the region.
The Saints drafted Taliese Fuaga in the 1st round in 2024 | OSU Athletics
Oregon State Beavers
Players Drafted All-Time
173
Highest Pick
Terry Baker 1st Overall 1963 Rams
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Taliese Fuaga 14th overall 2024 Saints
All-Time First Rounders
7
Drafted 2025
0
Last Draft Without Pick
2025
Rashaad Penny was 27th overall in the 2018 draft | SDSU Athletics
San Diego State Aztecs
Players Drafted All-Time
160
Highest Pick
Marshall Faulk 2nd overall 1994 Colts
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Rashaad Penny 27th overall 2018 Seahawks
All-time 1st Rounders
9
Drafted in 2025
0
Last Draft Without Pick
2025
Mark Nichols | Detroit Lions
San Jose State Spartans
Players Drafted All-Time
108
Highest Pick
Mark Nichols 16th overall 1981 Lions
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Gill Byrd 22nd overall 1983 Chargers
All-time 1st Rounders
6
Drafted in 2025
0
Last Draft Without Pick
2025
Elic Ayomanor was the latest Cardinal selected | Darren Yamashita/USA TODAY
Stanford Cardinal
Players Drafted All-Time
280
Highest Pick
Bobby Garrett 1954, Browns; Jim Plunkett 1971, Patriots; John Elway 1983, Baltimore Colts; Andrew Luck 2012, Colts — All first overall
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Solomon Thomas 3rd Overall 2017 49ers & Christian McCaffrey 8th Overall 2017 Panthers
All-Time First Rounders
25
Drafted 2025
1
Last Draft Without Pick
2009
Carson Schwesinger was selected in the 2nd round in 2025 | UCLA Athletics
UCLA Bruins
Players Drafted All-Time
344
Highest Pick
Troy Aikman 1st Overall 1989 Cowboys
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Laiatu Latu 15th overall 2024 Colts
All-Time First Rounders
38 (1 supplemental)
Drafted 2025
5
Last Draft Without Pick
2012
Ricky White was the latest Rebel selected | John Locher/AP
UNLV Rebels
Players Drafted All-Time
45
Highest Pick
Ickey Woods 31st overall 1988 Bengals
Most Recent 1st Rounder
0
All-time 1st Rounders
0
Drafted in 2025
1
Last Draft Without Pick
2024
Caleb Williams is USC’s latest overall No. 1 pick | USC Athletics
USC Trojans
Players Drafted All-Time
533
Highest Pick
Ron Yary 1968, Vikings OJ Simpson 1969, Bills Ricky Bell 1977, Buccaneers Keyshawn Johnson 1996, Jets Carson Palmer 2003, Bengals, Caleb Williams 2024, Bears, All first overall
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Caleb Williams 1st overall 2024 Bears
All-Time First Rounders
87
Drafted 2025
3
Last Draft Without Pick
1938
Dalton Kincaid | Ben B. Braun/Deseret News
Utah Utes
Players Drafted All-Time
178
Highest Pick
Alex Smith 1st Overall 2005 49ers
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Dalton Kincaid 25th overall in 2023 to the Bills
All-Time First Rounders
10
Drafted 2025
1
Last Draft Without Pick
2021
Jordan Love was selected 26th overall by the Packers | USU Athletics
Utah State Aggies
Players Drafted All-Time
117
Highest Pick
Merlin Olsen 3rd overall 1962 Rams
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Jordan Love 26th overall 2020 Packers
All-time 1st Rounders
5
Drafted in 2025
1
Last Draft Without Pick
2024
Michael Penix was taken 8th overall in the 2024 draft | Pac-12.com
Washington Huskies
Players Drafted All-Time
326
Highest Pick
Steve Emtman 1st Overall 1992 Colts
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Michael Penix Jr. 8th overall, Falcons Rome Odunze 9th overall, Bears Troy Fautanu 20th overall, Steelers All 2024
All-Time First Rounders
31
Drafted 2025
1
Last Draft Without Pick
2023
Kyle Williams was selected 69th overall in 2025 | Ross D. Franklin/AP
Washington State Cougars
Players Drafted All-Time
202
Highest Pick
Drew Bledsoe 1st overall 1993 Patriots
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Andre Dillard 22nd Overall 2019 Eagles
All-Time First Rounders
14 (1 of them supplemental)
Drafted 2025
1
Last Draft Without Pick
2021
Wyoming QB Josh Allen | Wyoming Athletics
Wyoming Cowboys
Players Drafted All-Time
87
Highest Pick
Josh Allen 7th overall 2018 Bills
Most Recent 1st Rounder
Josh Allen
All-time 1st Rounders
4
Drafted in 2025
0
Last Draft Without Pick
2025
writes about various topics for SuperWest sports, including stats and records, college sports, and motorsports. He also founded and runs the Sports and Entertainment Research Center (SERC).
Tuesday night in the NBA playoffs saw three games played, with two series now level and one starting to tilt in one direction.
The Los Angeles Lakers were the only team to take full control, beating the Houston Rockets 101-94 to go 2-0 up in the series. LeBron James led the way with 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard added 25 and 23 points, respectively. After the game, Kennard spoke about his recent form.
“‘Bron, coaches, they’re just elevating me, telling me to be aggressive… (the basket) looks good right now.”
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In Boston, the Philadelphia 76ers responded with a 111-97 win over the Boston Celtics to level their series at 1-1. Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe led the way, combining for 59 points. When asked about his approach after the game, VJ Edgecombe said:
“I’m just shooting every shot that’s open, that I think is available.”
The Portland Trail Blazers also bounced back, beating the San Antonio Spurs 106-103 to tie their series 1-1. Scoot Henderson led the scoring with 31 points. For Portland, Scoot Henderson kept the focus on what comes next.
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“Basketball’s a game of runs… we’ve got to get this next one, got to get this next two.”
After Tuesday’s games, the Los Angeles Lakers are the only team up 2-0, while the Philadelphia 76ers and Portland Trail Blazers have pulled their series back to 1-1.
Nov 28, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) looks on during the third quarter against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
After months of rumors and speculation, the 2026 NFL Draft is finally upon us.
With just a few days until the draft officially begins on Thursday, April 23, here is my final 2026 NFL mock draft before the event officially gets underway.
1. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
This is the only “sure thing” of this spring’s draft. Fernando Mendoza is the top quarterback prospect this spring; the Las Vegas Raiders have a need at quarterback even with the signing of Kirk Cousins. Mendoza will be wearing black and silver by the end of Thursday night.
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2. New York Jets: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Arvell Reese is an interesting prospect, and that is precisely why Aaron Glenn is going to want to take a chance on him for his defense. The New York Jets just overhauled their defense this past season by trading away Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, and now they need to start finding new cornerstones to build around. Reese’s versatility to play both as an edge rusher and as an off-ball linebacker will propel him to second overall. At just 20 years old, there is plenty of time for him to develop either skill.
3. Arizona Cardinals: OLB David Bailey, Texas Tech
David Bailey is a prototypical edge rusher with great size and athletic ability. The Cardinals certainly could be considering offensive tackle here, but Bailey looks like one of the few “sure thing: prospects this spring, making him hard to pass up.
A decade after the Tennessee Titans landed Derrick Henry in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, they are hoping to find their next franchise running back. Jeremiyah Love is arguably the best player in this draft class, and he will put together plenty of explosive plays for the Titans.
A true off-ball linebacker hasn’t been selected in the top five since Devin White in 2019, but Sonny Styles has the talent to buck that trend. Styles has tremendous size and instincts at the linebacker position, and he showed off every ounce of his ridiculous athleticism at the combine. John Harbaugh loves getting difference makers at this middle linebacker spot, and he gets one here.
6. Cleveland Browns: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
The path has been clear for Cleveland for a while: wide receiver and offensive tackle in the first round. They get the first half of that job taken care of here by landing Ohio State’s Carnell Tate, who is the latest in a long line of Buckeye receivers headed to the NFL as first-round prospects.
7. Washington Commanders: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Wide receiver certainly is a need for Washington, but they also need to figure things out on defense in 2026. They added a few players to their defensive front in free agency, but the cornerback position still has question marks. They land this year’s CB1.
8. New Orleans Saints: OLB Rueben Bain, Miami
Rueben Bain has a couple things working against him heading into this draft. He has very short arms, and his off-the-field issues could cause a pretty big tumble down the draft board. However, the Kansas City Chiefs need to find someone who can consistently play opposite George Karlaftis. Bain didn’t get short arms overnight, and he was consistently productive in college. He should still land somewhere in the top 10.
9. Kansas City Chiefs: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami
The Chiefs have parted ways with Jawaan Taylor, and for now, their solution has been Jaylon Moore, who is not a proven player. They go ahead and take one of the top offensive tackles in this class to create a long-term solution at that spot.
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10. New York Giants (via CIN): S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
This may be a bit more of a tumble than some expect for Caleb Downs, but as a safety, it’s hard to know exactly when NFL teams will feel comfortable taking him despite the talent and upside. New York just acquired the 10th overall pick by trading away Dexter Lawrence, and after grabbing Styles with the fifth overall pick, they are now the winners of the night by also landing Downs.
11. Miami Dolphins: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
The Miami Dolphins desperately need to build up their offensive tackle situation in this draft, especially without there being a QB worth taking at this point, and Spencer Fano is a player who has the versatility to either play tackle or at guard on either side of the line.
12. Dallas Cowboys: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
Dallas fielded one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season, and they need help all over. Dillon Thieneman can be an anchor on the backend capable of playing free safety while also helping out in run support.
Sep 27, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Dillon Thieneman (31) reacts after defeating the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
13. Los Angeles Rams (via ATL): WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
Outside of Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, a pair of precision route runners, the Rams don’t have a ton of options at wide receiver right now. Jordyn Tyson’s injury history could make some NFL teams wary of picking him early, but the Rams need a true deep threat to open things up in the passing game.
14. Baltimore Ravens: G Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
The Ravens just have a knack for landing top talent at a position in the draft. This time, they land the top guard on the board to shore up their interior offensive line and protect Lamar Jackson.
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15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
Jermod McCoy lost his 2025 season to injury, but the tape from 2024 speaks for itself. He is one of the best cornerbacks in this draft class, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers desperately need some help at the position.
16. New York Jets (via IND): WR Makai Lemon, USC
If the Jets are going to have any success with Geno Smith as their new quarterback, they need to figure out the WR2 spot opposite Garrett Wilson. Makai Lemon is an explosive athlete who can take on the role in New York.
17. Detroit Lions: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
Edge rusher could be high on Detroit’s list, but Dan Campbell is going to get back to his roots this season and find a player that bites kneecaps. Kayden McDonald can be a true nose tackle player at the NFL level, and the Lions need to be much better at defending the run in 2026. McDonald will be a cornerstone for a team that had defensive tackle struggles last year.
18. Minnesota Vikings: DT Caleb Banks, Florida
The Minnesota Vikings spent big at defensive tackle last offseason with signings of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, but neither really panned out. Brian Flores has had success in Minnesota without true difference makers at the position, but if the Vikings are ever going to take the next step toward being a contender, they need to find that difference maker. Caleb Banks put together a ridiculous combine despite performing on a foot injury, and once that heals up, he will be a starter at the NFL level.
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19. Carolina Panthers: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
Three straight drafts with wide receiver selections in the first round may seem like a lot for Carolina, but it’s warranted here. The Panthers are in now or never territory with Bryce Young, so they go all in on giving him as much talent at the position as possible.
Dallas doubles up in the secondary here to help a defense that allowed the most passing yards, second-most passing touchdowns, and tied the second-fewest interceptions in the NFL last year. With Jermod McCoy out last year, Colton Hood stepped up as a true CB1 for Tennessee last season, and that emergence propels him into the first round.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
The Pittsburgh Steelers need as much help at wide receiver as they can get right now, and Omar Cooper is a versatile player who can line up outside or in the slot. That versatility along with his athleticism and large catch radius will make him a favorite target for Aaron Rodgers or whoever is at quarterback this fall.
Jan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. (3) runs against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the second half of the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
22. Los Angeles Chargers: G Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M
It may be early for another guard to go off the board, but the Chargers can’t risk there being a run at the position between now and their next pick at No. 55. Chase Bisontis is a bulldog in the middle of the offensive line, and he will open up plenty of running lanes for Omarion Hampton. Jim Harbaugh will love having him on his team.
23. Philadelphia Eagles: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
The Philadelphia Eagles love planning for the future with their high end picks, and this selection comes at the perfect time with Lane Johnson missing eight games in 2025. Howie Roseman grabs the future Hall of Famer’s successor here in the massive 6’7″, 352-pound frame of Kadyn Proctor.
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24. Cleveland Browns (via JAX): OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
Cleveland’s job comes to completion here with the selection of Monroe Freeling. While he is still a bit raw with only 17 collegiate starts under his belt, Freeling showed up for the Bulldogs in 2025 as a great pass protector. The Browns were not good in that department last season, so hopefully, this can be a solution.
25. Chicago Bears: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State
After back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons for Jaylon Johnson, he missed a large chunk of the 2025 season because of injury. As of now, the Bears aren’t necessarily in desperate need of a cornerback, but they are an injury away from being in that situation. Chris Johnson is a great security blanket with the talent to blossom into a starter as a boundary CB.
26. Buffalo Bills: OLB Malachi Lawrence, UCF
The Bills have both Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb on the roster, but both players utilize more power than athleticism and explosive ability to get after quarterbacks. Malachi Lawrence can bring that energy to the defensive front while also being a capable run stopper. He’s a player that can be on the field at all times and carve a role out for himself.
27. San Francisco 49ers: OLB Akheem Mesidor, Miami
John Lynch said at the combine that his team would address their pass rush in this year’s draft, and they do exactly that here in the first round with the selection of Akheem Mesidor. He brings relentless effort with multiple moves in his tool bag to get around opposing tackles to run down quarterbacks.
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28. Houston Texans: OT Blake Miller, Clemson
The offensive line has been a fickle position group for the Texans They started the rebuilding process with the signings of Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller as well as a new contract for Ed Ingram, but that can’t be the end of their improvements. Blake Miller gives the Texans an answer for their other tackle spot.
29. Kansas City Chiefs (via LAR): TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
Kenyon Sadiq to the Chiefs is too easy of a fit. Travis Kelce very well could be entering his final NFL season, and we have seen some cracks in the armor over the past couple seasons that have contributed to delaying another Lombardi Trophy coming to Kansas City. Sadiq is the successor who could end up taking on the majority of the snaps by the end of the season.
Dec 7, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) reacts after a touchdown during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions in the 2024 Big Ten Championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
The Dolphins addressed one side of the trenches earlier in this draft, and now they go ahead and grab an athletic pass rushing presence for their pass rush. Keldric Faulk is an explosive player, and he is much more impactful than the two sacks he recorded last season suggest.
31. New England Patriots: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
A lot of things went wrong for the New England Patriots in last season’s Super Bowl, but the main takeaway was their offensive line needs to be better for the next time they get in that position. Caleb Lomu could play either at tackle or guard at the NFL level, and New England will take either at this point.
32. Seattle Seahawks: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren has been a steady riser throughout this draft process, and it culminates with him sneaking into the end of the first round. He is a massive player at 6’3″ and has terrific ball instincts when passes are headed his way. He can step up and contribute as a blitzer as well. It’s not the biggest need in the world for Seattle, but they go ahead and make an already great defense even better here.
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Josh Frey is a senior writer at both PurplePTSD.com and VikingsTerritory.com, with a fascination for the NFL Draft. To … More about Josh Frey
Apr 21, 2026; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Utah Mammoth defenseman Sean Durzi (50) attempts to deflect a shot attempt by Vegas Golden Knights center Brett Howden (21) during the first period of game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
Logan Cooley scored the go-ahead goal on a rebound with six minutes remaining to give the Utah Mammoth the first playoff win in franchise history, 3-2 over the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 2 of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series on Tuesday in Las Vegas.
Cooley buried a rebound of a Dylan Guenther shot just inside the left post, even the best-of-seven series at one victory apiece. The scene now shifts to Salt Lake City for the next two contests, with Game 3 on Friday.
Guenther had a goal and an assist, Kailer Yamamoto had two assists and MacKenzie Weegar also scored for Utah. Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves, including a close-in shot by Mark Stone from the left side of the net with five seconds left to seal the win.
Stone and Ivan Barbashev each a scored goal and Jack Eichel had two assists for Vegas, which lost for the first time in regulation in 10 games (8-1-1) under coach John Tortorella. Carter Hart finished with 26 saves.
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The teams exchanged own goals during the first period, which ended with the score 1-1.
Vegas, which rallied for a 4-2 victory in Game 1, took a 1-0 lead at the 11:40 mark on a power-play goal. Stone’s cross-crease pass for Tomas Hertl near the right post caromed straight into the net off the skate of Utah defenseman Mikhail Sergachev. It was Stone’s 43rd career playoff goal and his sixth in the past six games dating back to the regular season.
Utah tied it near the end of the period when Weegar’s shot from the right point deflected off the stick of Vegas defenseman Noah Hanifin and then off the pads of Hart into the low slot toward Golden Knights defenseman Rasmus Andersson, who kicked the rebound into the net.
The Mammoth took a 2-1 lead in the second period on a one-timer from the top of the left circle by Guenther off a pass from Yamamoto.
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The Golden Knights tied it 62 seconds later. Barbashev intercepted a clearing pass by Sergachev in the neutral zone and then skated in and split a pair of Utah defensemen before roofing a backhand shot into the top far corner for his second goal of the playoffs.
Sal Stewart probably isn’t the best player in baseball now. I know, I know, it’s hard to hear that. But it’s true. Probably.
Since he debuted on Sept. 1 of last season, Stewart ranks 13th among all hitters with a 155 wRC+. He is hitting .275/.353/.601 in that span, and he’s actually been even better to open this season, upping that line to .289/.388/.639 through the first 23 games, and he’s doing it as a 22-year-old in a key lineup spot for a competitive team. And he’s leveled up in the early going despite teams getting a scouting report on him last season.
It’s undeniably impressive. Whether you’re looking at the top-line numbers or the underlying numbers, it all tells pretty much the same story: Stewart looks like an elite hitter right now. In 2025, Stewart’s solid .355 wOBA came along with an even better .398 expected wOBA, and so far in 2026, his .438 wOBA comes paired with a .419 xwOBA. Since 2021, there have only been 13 individual hitter seasons (out of 670 qualifiers) with an xwOBA over .419; use his .411 career mark, and you only add four more seasons.
Of course, there have almost certainly been many, many more 41-game stretches where hitters have been better than Stewart has been. Just taking one random stretch from last season, from June 11 through July 31, and there were six hitters with an xwOBA of at least .411. Some of them are superstars, like Kyle Schwarber, Corey Seager, and Juan Soto. But that sextet also includes Willy Adames, a good hitter, but not much more than a pretty good hitter; it also includes Nick Kurtz and Kyle Stowers, two hitters for whom the jury is very much out as to exactly how good they are.
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But it would be foolish to write off a hot start as meaningless when it comes to projecting a player forward. And you don’t have to take my word for it. Let’s just look at how the rest-of-season projections for Stewart have changed, using THE BAT X projections from FanGraphs.com:
Preseason
Rest of Season
Change
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AVG
0.271
0.280
+0.009
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OBP
0.328
0.348
+0.020
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SLG
0.453
0.498
+0.045
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BB%
7.30%
8.90%
+1.60%
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K%
18.50%
18.30%
-0.20%
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Projection systems are notoriously conservative, especially for young players, who face a steep learning curve at the MLB level. And yet, even after just 20 or so games, we’ve already seen a substantial increase in the expectations this system (typically the most accurate for Fantasy Baseball) has for Stewart. He’s gone from the 14th-best projected first baseman by wRC+ to the seventh-best already. That’s serious movement, and it’s meaningful.
I can say this much with confidence: Stewart is almost certainly at least a good hitter. BaseballProspectus has a stat they call “Deserved Stats,” and they’ve got Stewart down for a .264/.342/.495 hitter for his career, with a very similar line so far this season. If that’s all he is, he’s a top-12 first baseman, and would rank even higher when he gains eligibility at either third base (where he needs one more appearance to qualify in CBS Fantasy leagues) or second base (where he needs three more). And, given his excellent home park, it feels fair to say that mid-.800s OPS line is probably close to his floor.
That might not be enough for you. I know. Some of you want us to declare that Stewart is already a top-three third baseman, better than Nick Kurtz even. Memories can be short, and reacting to what you’re seeing in the moment is exciting and fun, and Stewart has the look of an absolute star right now. He probably won’t keep being this good moving forward – he hits the ball hard, but not astronomically so (75th percentile average exit velocity) and his plate discipline metrics suggest he probably deserves something more like average-ish results with his strikeout and walk rates; he has also dipped down to a 15.2% pulled-air rate, making his current elite power production harder to buy into. There will be regression.
But from a 20-ish game sample, Stewart has moved from a corner infielder we like to someone who will be starting a starting-caliber first baseman in all leagues moving forward. Is he a top-12 first baseman right now? Absolutely. Top-10? I’d lean that way.
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Top-five? Well, I’m not ready to go there yet. The ceiling is certainly that high, especially with his rare out-of-position, 15-steal upside. But we’ll see Stewart slow down, and we’ll see pitchers adjust, and then it’ll be incumbent on him to adjust back. That’s when you really learn how good a player is.
But the ceiling? Well, that’s what we’re seeing right now, and it’s tremendous. And if Stewart ends up as a top-five first baseman in all Fantasy formats by the summer months, I won’t be too surprised.
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