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High school football: Breaking down Michael O’Brien’s preseason Super 25 rankings

Mount Carmel coach Jordan Lynch had a point to make, one thing he wanted to say before fielding all the other questions about his preseason No. 1 team.

“We’ve been known as a talented team,” Lynch said. “I want to be known as a tough team and I think that’s what we have here.”

The Caravan pulled off a tremendous late win against Batavia last season in the Class 7A state playoffs but fell short at the end in a handful of other games. Lynch hopes the added experience and toughness turns that around this season.

His star offensive threat, junior running back Darrion Dupree, has set the tone in the off-season.

“He worked so hard,” Lynch said. “You wouldn’t think an athlete as impressive as he is could get more explosive, but he did. He’s got great hands and he understands the offense. He’s every coach’s dream.”

1. Mount Carmel

Mount Carmel’s Dennis Furlong (11), Blainey Dowling (7) and Darrion Gilliam (17) celebrate with teammates during the game against Batavia.

Kirsten Stickney/For the Sun-Times

All the pieces are in place for the Caravan to make a run at a 14th state championship. Quarterback Blainey Dowling is bigger and stronger and the defensive line should create havoc behind Asher Tomaszewski (Ohio) and Danny Novickas (Ohio). Read more on Mount Carmel.

2. Lincoln-Way East

Lincoln-Way East quarterback Chase Arthur (12) is forced out of the pocket against Oswego East.

Kevin Tanaka/For the Sun-Times

Linebacker Jake Scianna leads a rock-solid defense and receiver Jayden Cook is poised for a breakout season. The Griffins return 16 starters and the sky is the limit if the quarterback spot is solid. Read more on Lincoln-Way East.

3. Loyola

Loyola’s Jake Stearney (15) runs down the sideline against St. Rita.

Kevin Tanaka/For the Sun-Times

The offense is ready to go behind Jake Stearney (Colgate) and an experienced group of receivers. Ramblers coach John Holecek will have to rebuild the defense behind defensive lineman Brooks Bahr (Michigan) but that’s his specialty. Read more on Loyola.

4. Batavia

Batavia’s Ryan Boe (21) passes against Wheaton North.

Kirsten Stickney/For the Sun-Times

It all starts with linebackers Tyler Jansey (Wisconsin) and Jack Sadowsky (Iowa State). Quarterback Ryan Boe should be much improved and has huge targets all over the offense. Read more on Batavia.

5. Bolingbrook

Bolingbrook’s offensive line completes a drill during practice,

Allen Cunningham/For the Sun-Times

Two talented transfers, running back Joshua Robinson and receiver Kaleb Miller, join a talented offense led by receiver I’Marion Stewart. Expectations are high for senior quarterback Jayden Lawrence. Safety Damon Walters (Northwestern) leads a dynamic defense. Depth could be an issue. Read more on Bolingbrook.

6. St. Rita

St. Rita’s Ethan Middleton (84) is tackeld by Wheaton North’s Trent Gabriele (37) and Fred Elftmann (42).

Kirsten Stickney/For the Sun-Times

A large, experienced line will create space for junior running backs Ethan Middleton and DJ Stewart. Quarterback will be a question mark early but the defense is strong with lineman Pat Farrell (Illinois) and the Kinsbury brothers, Matt and Joe, at linebacker. Read more on St. Rita.

7. Glenbard West

Glenbard West’s Joey Pope (2) jumps past York’s John Reiner (52).

Kevin Tanaka/For the Sun-Times

It’s the largest offensive line in coach Chad Hetlet’s 16 years, which is eye-opening. Running back Joey Pope and quarterback Korey Tai will be the beneficiaries. Five starters are back on defense. Read more on Glenbard West.

8. Prairie Ridge

Prairie Ridge’s Nathan Greetham completes a drill during practice.

Allen Cunningham/For the Sun-Times

Fullback Nathan Greetham leads a group with six starters back on offense and five on defense. The Wolves should be the best team in the Fox Valley, which makes them instant Class 6A state title contenders. Read more on Prairie Ridge.

9. Warren

Warren’s Jailen Duffie catches a pass during practice.

Allen Cunningham/For the Sun-Times

There’s excitement around quarterback Adam Behrens’ return to football and the Blue Devils traditionally have one of the state’s most aggressive, dominant defenses. Defensive back Jailen Duffie (North Dakota State) leads this season’s edition. Read more on Warren.

10. Kankakee

Kankakee’s Karson King (6) and Pierre Allen (8) celebrate King’s touchdown against Fenwick.

Kirsten Stickney/For the Sun-Times

Senior Jyaire Hill is one of the state’s top talents. The Kays return 12 starters from a team that lost in the Class 5A title game. Running back Tony Phillips, a transfer from McNamara, is a signficant addition. Read more on Kankakee.

11. Neuqua Valley: Seventeen starters return, including quarterback Mark Mennecke and athlete Grant Larkin (North Dakota State).

12. Marist: Expect a strong defense led by defensive back John Nestor (Iowa) and senior lineman Jamel Howard. Senior Dermot Smyth is stepping up as starting quarterback.

13. Maine South: The Hawks don’t have a marquee player, but coach Dave Inserra has built one of the state’s most dependable programs. Quarterback Ryan Leyden gained valuable experience last season.

14. Naperville North: Quarterback Aidan Gray (Northwestern) and junior safety/wide receiver Luke Williams are two of the area’s top talents.

15. Crete-Monee: Josh Franklin (Western Michigan) is a highlight reel. The senior quarterback/receiver/running back may be the area’s most unstoppable offensive force. Senior receiver Lynell Billups-Williams (Miami, Ohio) is another breakout threat.

16. St. Ignatius: Workhorse running back Vinny Rugai is a difference maker and junior lineman Justin Scott is one of the top recruits in the country. Expectations are high after the Wolfpack shocked everyone by beating Mount Carmel last season.

17. Glenbard North: The Panthers flew under the radar last season until the playoffs. A load of talent returns on offense, including quarterback Justin Bland and receivers Johnnie Robertson and Zamari Robinson.

18. Prospect: Northwestern recruit Frank Covey IV is one of the area’s most intriguing talents, equally effective at quarterback and receiver. Safety Jack Berman (Navy) will lead the defense.

19. Willowbrook: Twelve starters return for the Trojans, which have won five consecutive West Suburban Gold titles.

20. Lockport: Only two starters return for the defending Class 8A state champs, but coach George Czart has built a program ready to reload.

21. Cary-Grove: Linebacker/fullback Colin Desmet is one of a few returners for the Class 6A state champions, but the Trojans are a proven power.

22. Joliet Catholic: Northwestern recruit Anthony Birsa, an offensive lineman, leads an inexperienced but talented young Hilltoppers squad.

23. Hinsdale Central: Experience returns on defense and the Red Devils have two quality quarterbacks, Ben Monahan and Billy Cernugel.

24. Jacobs: One of last season’s surprise teams returns a lot, including quarterback Max Brenner and highly-recruited junior tight end Grant Stec.

25. Lemont: Fifteen starters, including QB Payton Salomon, are back from a squad that lost in the Class 6A state quarterfinals to East St. Louis. Defensive back Noah Taylor (North Dakota State) and offensive linemen Jacek Blaszynski (Indiana State) are difference makers.

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That 90’s look: Suns bringing back classic “sunburst” jerseyson August 23, 2022 at 6:44 pm

Phoenix Suns

1:27 PM ET

For the first time since the 1990s, the Phoenix Suns are bringing their purple “sunburst” look back to their regular uniform rotation. The look will serve as the team’s Classic Edition uniform throughout the 2022-23 season.

The sunburst uniform, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, debuted on opening night of the 1992-93 season which ended with a trip to the NBA Finals. The remake features a more form-fitting and lighter weight design.

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“Everything was new going into that season,” said Mark West, a center for the Suns for eight seasons who now serves as the team’s charity ambassador. “It was impressive, just to have something new. It was really all about the anticipation for the new year.”

After then-general manager Jerry Colangelo fronted a new ownership group that purchased the Suns in 1987, a series of new initiatives were launched and culminated for the 1992-93 season.

The team was set to move out of Veteran’s Coliseum and into its new downtown arena, former Suns All-Star Paul Westphal was named head coach, and Dream Team power forward Charles Barkley was acquired via trade from the Philadelphia 76ers.

“It was the first season after the Barcelona Olympics with the Dream Team, and the NBA was put on the global map,” said Graham Wincott, the Suns senior director of marketing. “[Getting Barkley] really put (the Suns) over the edge, [finishing] with the best record in the league and he won MVP. It told a lot of the world who the Suns were.”

“Jerry Colangelo really wanted to see a new, clean, modern look,” said Tom Ambrose, the Suns’ former VP of marketing. “Our old uniforms had a western style typeface and a sunburst, but it was on the side of the shorts. He wanted a change. He wanted to see some ideas.”

As Ambrose recalls, he kicked off an exploratory jersey design meeting with Colangelo and team executives by first holding out a toy rubber chicken.

“Don’t be chicken,” he joked to the group. “Don’t be afraid of making a change.”

From there, the group glanced through sketches that featured everything from a font-less tank top dominated by a sunburst atop word-heavy shorts, to purple or black looks with the sunburst emanating from the corner of the jersey.

Phoenix Suns

While purple and orange have been the team’s colors since the franchise was founded in 1968, the original re-design pitch to Colangelo also included a wild card option — overhauling the colors to dark blue and silver.

“That got shot down pretty quickly,” laughed Ambrose. “I’ll be honest. I don’t like the Dallas Cowboys, but I like their uniforms. That’s why I thought, ‘Well, let’s give it a shot, if they want to make that big of a change.'”

Instead, the purple and orange remained, with the sunburst graphic eventually being reversed from a lower corner placement to a more prominent placement across the chest, as per distinct feedback from Colangelo and Ambrose. The front tank text was switched from “Phoenix” to “Suns” and the jersey number placed under the basketball.

Throughout the 1990s, sizable, sublimated graphics became the norm, whether that be an oversized Dino atop the center of the expansion Raptors’ uniforms, or a “Big Hawk” dominating the center of a gradient fading Atlanta jersey.

The Suns were also one of the first teams to opt for the new mesh application process, making for a defining look throughout the decade.

“We loved it,” beams Ambrose. “We loved being on the cutting edge. Once we fought through that, ‘Well, let’s not change it too much’ feeling that we all had, then we said, ‘Let’s go all in.'”

Before annual alternate jerseys were the norm, the Suns had just two options, and donned their purple sunburst jerseys on 52 road occasions during the 1992-93 regular season and playoffs. According to Wincott, the league now requires its teams to wear their Classic Edition for a minimum of four games throughout the season, though the Suns are already planning for far more.

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“We’re going to go way beyond that,” said Wincott. “As it stands now, we’re going to wear them for at least a quarter of our home games. Once we see what our road opponents have selected, then we’ll definitely slot it in for some road games too.”

Throughout the course of the season, home games featuring the Classic Edition jersey will also host “an immersive 90’s experience,” according to Wincott, with former players on hand, NBA Jam-themed graphics and music playlists from the era.

While the team only sparingly wore the black Sunburst jersey again during the 2012-13 season as a “Hardwood Classics” look, Mitchell & Ness has often released Suns throwback jerseys featuring former players in each of the original purple, white and black colors.

The brand even launched an elevated $400 black version with luxury sportswear designer Don C as part of its “No Name” series in 2018, that removed all lettering from the uniform to focus on the sunburst graphic.

Actor Jonah Hill’s casual stroll in the jersey immediately went viral in 2018.

“We do intend on shipping him another one,” joked Wincott.

In recent years, the team’s “Valley” alternate jerseys have become the most popular look since the team overhauled its uniforms in 2000. Wincott said that on the first day that the “Valley” jerseys were available, the team sold more jerseys in one day than it had throughout the entire prior season. Despite the fanfare, the Suns won’t be wearing the black and gradient fading “Valley” jerseys during the 2022-23 season. They are also a fan favorite whenever the team polls supporters about the uniforms.

“It doesn’t hurt to replace the current most popular jersey with the most popular jersey of all time,” he said.

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That 90’s look: Suns bringing back classic “sunburst” jerseyson August 23, 2022 at 6:44 pm Read More »

Where the latest twist in the Durant saga sends our NBA Power Rankingson August 23, 2022 at 6:15 pm

9:10 AM ET

The 2022 NBA draft is in the rearview mirror, summer league has come and gone and most free agents have inked new deals. LeBron James inked a two-year, $97.1 million extension with the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday ahead of his fifth season with the franchise, which will mark his longest tenure with a team since he spent the first seven years of his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Several other vets around the league signed extensions, including Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden, Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard and Washington Wizards point guard Bradley Beal, as well as Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine. The 2022 NBA All-Stars Devin Booker, Karl-Anthony Towns and reigning MVP Nikola Jokic all signed supermax extensions to remain with the Phoenix Suns, Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets, respectively. The 2019 draft class also saw big paydays, as Ja Morant, Zion Williamson and Darius Garland all signed rookie extensions.

Some notable names opted to change teams, including former Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson, who signed a four-year, $104 million deal with the New York Knicks. And the Utah Jazz sent shock waves throughout the league when they traded big man Rudy Gobert, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year, to Minnesota.

Will Gobert’s former teammate Donovan Mitchell join Brunson in New York? And what about the other team in New York? Will Kevin Durant start the season in a Brooklyn Nets jersey? Our NBA insiders break down where every team stands after a wild free agency spree, plus which questions remain ahead of the 2022-23 season.

Note: These rankings are based on where the members of our panel (ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, Tim Bontemps, Jamal Collier, Nick Friedell, Andrew Lopez and Kevin Pelton) think teams belong heading into next season, taking into account potential player movement. Title odds for 2023 by Caesars Sportsbook.

Sarah Stier/Getty Images

1. Golden State WarriorsPost-Finals ranking: 12023 title odds: +550

The Warriors lost Gary Payton II and Otto Porter Jr., but they brought in Donte DiVincenzo and JaMychal Green — two players that, on paper, fit the Warriors’ system. If they look as good with Golden State in reality as they do hypothetically — in addition to their youngsters taking the next step and their core remaining the same — the Warriors should be just as dangerous in 2022-23. — Andrews

2. Boston CelticsPost-Finals ranking: 22023 title odds: +450

After struggling offensively during the playoffs, Boston added two significant weapons — guard Malcolm Brogdon and forward Danilo Gallinari — without sacrificing a single player from the eight-man rotation that got the Celtics to last season’s NBA Finals. Barring any blockbuster moves, Boston will go into next season as one of the deepest teams in the NBA. — Bontemps

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3. Milwaukee BucksPost-Finals ranking: 32023 title odds: +800

Would the Bucks have made it back to the NBA Finals if Khris Middleton had been healthy for their second-round matchup with the Celtics? We’ll never know the answer, but Milwaukee is bringing back virtually its entire roster — the Bucks re-signed Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton, Wesley Matthews and Jevon Carter. The Bucks did add Joe Ingles, who will be 35 in October and is coming off an ACL tear, but if he can bounce back to his pre-injury form he could add some much-needed wing depth. — Collier

4. Memphis GrizzliesPost-Finals ranking: 42023 title odds: +2000

Memphis’ biggest move of the offseason was landing a full five-year max deal for superstar guard Ja Morant. Signing his backup, Tyus Jones, on a new deal was no small feat, either. The impact of losing Kyle Anderson, a key part of their frontcourt rotation, will be one to monitor next season. — Bontemps

5. Phoenix SunsPost-Finals ranking: 72023 title odds: +800

What happens when Deandre Ayton returns to camp? The big man signed an offer sheet with the Indiana Pacers during free agency, but that deal was quickly matched by the Suns. Ayton averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds last season and has averaged a double-double in each of his four seasons in the league. Now, he gets the chance to continue building with the Suns, who are coming off a league-best 64 wins. — Lopez

6. LA ClippersPost-Finals ranking: 82023 title odds: +800

With Kawhi Leonard returning, the Clippers have put together one of the most expensive rosters in NBA history by re-signing Nicolas Batum and Amir Coffey, extending Ivica Zubac with a raise and adding John Wall. The Clippers do have one spot remaining for a training-camp battle, which could go to a replacement for departed Isaiah Hartenstein as a backup to Zubac in the middle. — Pelton

7. Miami HeatPost-Finals ranking: 62023 title odds: +1400

Losing P.J. Tucker hurts — he was popular in the locker room and an important piece of a team that came within a couple plays of making the Finals. The Heat did re-sign Victor Oladipo and Dewayne Dedmon, but they have not found that extra piece that would help push them over the top in the East. The rumor mill will continue to connect them to Kevin Durant and Donovan Mitchell, but it remains to be seen if they have the pieces to make either deal a reality. — Friedell

8. Dallas MavericksPost-Finals ranking: 52023 title odds: +2200

While the Mavericks traded for Christian Wood and signed JaVale McGee to dramatically change the look of their frontcourt, the move that will hang over Dallas heading into next season is Jalen Brunson leaving to sign with the Knicks. Now, Dallas will enter training camp with just two ball handlers on their roster — though they are two pretty good ones in superstar Luka Doncic and 2021-22 midseason trade acquisition Spencer Dinwiddie. — Bontemps

9. Denver NuggetsPost-Finals ranking: 92023 title odds: +2000

The Nuggets will finally be healthy next season with the return of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., which should help Denver take a step forward. The loss of Monte Morris stings, but acquiring Ish Smith as a backup point guard helps. Signing Bruce Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope puts more impact players around two-time MVP Nikola Jokic. — Andrews

10. Philadelphia 76ersPost-Finals ranking: 112023 title odds: +1600

The 76ers knew they needed to shore up some weaknesses this offseason, namely athleticism, rebounding and toughness. By adding De’Anthony Melton, Danuel House Jr. and P.J. Tucker, Philadelphia did just that. Those moves were made possible largely because James Harden took a pay cut, which signaled everyone in the franchise is pulling in the same direction. — Bontemps

11. Minnesota TimberwolvesPost-Finals ranking: 122023 title odds: +3500

The Timberwolves made the shocking move of the offseason when they unloaded several draft picks to bring in Rudy Gobert, arguably the NBA’s best defensive player, to pair with another All-NBA center in Karl-Anthony Towns. Between watching how well those two mesh and how budding star Anthony Edwards evolves, there will be few more intriguing teams to watch next season than Minnesota — a sentence that has rarely been said throughout the franchise’s 30-plus years. — Bontemps

12. Toronto RaptorsPost-Finals ranking: 152023 title odds: +2800

The Raptors didn’t make any waves this offseason, retaining Chris Boucher and Thaddeus Young to continue to boast a roster with as many interchangeable 6-foot-8 players as any team in the NBA. And while the ongoing drama surrounding Durant continues to linger around the franchise, it’s been made clear Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes won’t be part of any potential package. — Bontemps

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13. Brooklyn NetsPost-Finals ranking: 102023 title odds: +1800

The summer of discontent continues for the Nets. Where Kevin Durant ultimately lands remains the single biggest question in the league — and Kyrie Irving‘s future in Brooklyn might be the second biggest. The Nets added Royce O’Neale and T.J. Warren and were able to retain Patty Mills and Nic Claxton. Brooklyn could have a dangerous roster in place if Ben Simmons can return to form next season — but Durant’s future hovers over everything. — Friedell

14. Chicago BullsPost-Finals ranking: 132023 title odds: +5000

Chicago made a few minor additions — veterans Andre Drummond and Goran Dragic — in free agency, but the health of Lonzo Ball will be perhaps their biggest storyline heading into training camp. The Bulls were a different team with Ball on the floor, but the club has remained vague about the status of his recovery from a season-ending left knee injury suffered in January. The Bulls are hopeful he will be ready for the start of camp. — Collier

15. Atlanta HawksPost-Finals ranking: 192023 title odds: +5500

The Hawks made one of the biggest splashes of the offseason in late June when they traded for All-Star guard Dejounte Murray for three first-round picks (two unprotected). Now the Hawks move forward with a backcourt of Murray and Trae Young. Atlanta also added Justin Holiday and Aaron Holiday in separate deals, reuniting two of the league’s three Holiday brothers while also picking up Frank Kaminsky. But all eyes will be on how Young and Murray mesh once training camp begins. — Lopez

16. New Orleans PelicansPost-Finals ranking: 162023 title odds: +3500

It’s been a relatively quiet offseason in New Orleans, aside from Zion Williamson inking a five-year designated rookie max extension. But that’s what happens when you enter the offseason with 14 guaranteed contracts and a first-rounder. The Pelicans selected Dyson Daniels with the No. 8 overall pick they received from the Lakers in the Anthony Davis deal. Now, the focus will be on Williamson getting up to speed after missing the entire 2021-22 season. — Lopez

17. Cleveland CavaliersPost-Finals ranking: 182023 title odds: +12500

The Cavs addressed a few items on their offseason checklist: signing Darius Garland to a five-year max extension, bringing back Ricky Rubio after his ACL tear in December and adding backup big Robin Lopez. Yet, Collin Sexton still remains unsigned after Cleveland extended a qualifying offer before the start of free agency, making him a restricted free agent. — Collier

18. Los Angeles LakersPost-Finals ranking: 172023 title odds: +950

The Lakers hired highly regarded Darvin Ham as coach and wisely prioritized youth in free agency, filling out their bench by signing Troy Brown Jr., Thomas Bryant, Damian Jones, Juan Toscano-Anderson and Lonnie Walker IV. After signing LeBron James to a two-year extension, can they now find a way to trade Russell Westbrook for Kyrie Irving? If not, Ham’s biggest challenge will be figuring out how Westbrook fits. — Pelton

19. Portland Trail BlazersPost-Finals ranking: 232023 title odds: +12500

The Blazers are hoping last year’s lottery trip was a gap year due to Damian Lillard’s abdominal surgery. They extended Lillard, dealt for starting forward Jerami Grant and re-signed Jusuf Nurkic and Anfernee Simons before signing Gary Payton II to strengthen the bench. Long term, No. 7 pick Shaedon Sharpe — sidelined minutes into an NBA Summer League title run — offers potential, but Portland’s vets will be counted on to deliver an improved season. — Pelton

20. New York KnicksPost-Finals ranking: 222023 title odds: +7500

The Knicks — finally — have a point guard of both the present and future, landing Jalen Brunson as a free agent and giving the team a much-needed floor general. Will the Knicks, who have the most to offer in a Donovan Mitchell trade, find a way to add the Westchester native, too? — Bontemps

21. Charlotte HornetsPost-Finals ranking: 202023 title odds: +25000

The Hornets re-signed Cody Martin to a four-year deal and drafted big man Mark Williams out of Duke — but the biggest news continues to revolve around Miles Bridges. The restricted free agent is facing three felony domestic violence charges and his future in the league is hazy at best. — Friedell

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22. Washington WizardsPost-Finals ranking: 242023 title odds: +50000

The Wizards re-signed Bradley Beal to a max deal and he remains the focal point of everything the organization does. Washington also snagged Wisconsin guard Johnny Davis with the 10th pick in the draft, which should help take some offensive pressure off Beal. They also signed big man Taj Gibson, who will fit nicely as a veteran presence in the locker room. — Friedell

23. Sacramento KingsPost-Finals ranking: 252023 title odds: +35000

“We’re getting 40 wins this year” is the rallying cry for Sacramento fans eager to crack the postseason for the first time since 2006. There’s reason to believe the play-in at minimum is possible after No. 4 pick Keegan Murray impressed as MVP of the NBA Summer League, and the Kings added Kevin Huerter (via trade) and Malik Monk (via free agency) to their backcourt. Optimism is justified for Mike Brown’s first season as coach. — Pelton

24. Detroit PistonsPost-Finals ranking: 272023 title odds: +50000

The Pistons came away from draft night feeling like one of the biggest winners in the league, landing guard Jaden Ivey at No. 5 and center Jalen Duren at No. 13. Together with Cade Cunningham, Saddiq Bey and Isaiah Stewart, they give Detroit a solid foundation. — Collier

25. Utah JazzPost-Finals ranking: 142023 title odds: +30000

After trading Rudy Gobert to Minnesota for a boatload of draft picks and mostly expiring contracts, it is a new era in Salt Lake City. The only question now is how much longer Donovan Mitchell will remain there — and how much the Jazz will get for him when he is inevitably moved. — Bontemps

26. San Antonio SpursPost-Finals ranking: 212023 title odds: +100000

The rebuild is a full-go in San Antonio. The Spurs dealt Dejounte Murray, let Lonnie Walker IV walk and waived Danilo Gallinari — the player they received in the Murray deal — outright. With three first-round picks, the Spurs added Baylor’s Jeremy Sochan, Ohio State’s Malaki Branham and Notre Dame’s Blake Wesley. All three players will be 19 when the season starts. The Spurs hope to have plenty of draft success in the future, especially after prying away three first-rounders from Atlanta in the Murray deal. — Lopez

27. Indiana PacersPost-Finals ranking: 262023 title odds: +50000

The Pacers launched further into full rebuild mode, trading Malcolm Brogdon to the Celtics in the latest move to accumulate assets. Drafting Bennedict Mathurin and adding Jalen Smith gives the Pacers more intriguing young players next to promising young guard Tyrese Haliburton. — Collier

28. Orlando MagicPost-Finals ranking: 302023 title odds: +100000

Orlando’s big decision came down during a dramatic draft night, when it selected Paolo Banchero with the No. 1 overall pick. The hope is that Banchero can develop into the face of the franchise star it hasn’t had since Dwight Howard. The Magic re-signed Mo Bamba and Gary Harris — now they have to hope Jonathan Isaac can still be a difference-maker as he returns from missing over two years because of a knee injury. — Friedell

29. Oklahoma City ThunderPost-Finals ranking: 282023 title odds: +50000

As usual, the Thunder were busy on draft night, making three of the first 12 picks. No. 2 selection Chet Holmgren showed his potential during summer league and immediately joins guards Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey in Oklahoma City’s core, while Ousmane Dieng and Jalen Williams give the Thunder two more promising wings. — Pelton

30. Houston RocketsPost-Finals ranking: 292023 title odds: +100000

The Rockets continued their youth movement by drafting a pair of forwards — Jabari Smith Jr. (third overall) and Tari Eason (17th) — in June’s draft. Smith now slots in alongside Jalen Green as the centerpieces of Houston’s rebuild in the post-James Harden era, as the Rockets will have a very young, yet intriguing roster to follow. — Bontemps

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Where the latest twist in the Durant saga sends our NBA Power Rankingson August 23, 2022 at 6:15 pm Read More »

Chicago Bears cut roster to 80 players ahead of deadline

5 players are included in the Chicago Bears’ roster trimming

The Chicago Bears are trimming their roster down from 85 players to 80, in order to comply with the NFL rules. Rosters around the NFL need to down to 80 by 3 p.m. CT on August 23. The team announced five moves ahead of Tuesday’s practice:

1.) WR Dazz Newsome

Dazz Newsome was among those competing for a roster spot behind Darnell Mooney. Newsome has had some solid plays in the season, but a combination of mistakes and dropped passes means that he lost his shot at a roster spot.

2.) OT Julien Davenport

Offensive tackle Davenport’s contract has been terminated, who signed on to the team early in the offseason. Before the Bears, Davenport played with the Texans (2017-18), Dolphins (2019-20), and the Colts (2021).

3.) FB Jake Bargas

After wide receiver David Moore was placed on injured reserve, the Bears signed on fullback Jake Bargas. This addition is speculated to have been a result of fullback Khari Blasingame being sidelined due to an arm injury in the second preseason game.

4.) DT LaCale London

Defensive tackle London has also been waived. London signed onto the team as an undrafted player back in 2020. Last season he only appeared in one game, and unfortunately wasn’t able to standout in the competitive defensive line group.

5.) CB BoPete Keyes

Cornerback Keyes also only appeared in one game, but he was competing for a roster spot among a tight cornerbacks group. Ultimately, other players, such as Lamar Jackson and Jaylon Jones, stood out over Keyes.

These cuts bring down the roster from 85 to 80. The next cut down deadline is at 3 p.m. CT on August 31, where the Chicago Bears will have to cut the roster down even further from 80 to 53 players. This means that current players still have a chance to play their way on or off the roster. 

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Chicago Bears now have a strong trade option at offensive tackleRyan Heckmanon August 23, 2022 at 4:00 pm

Chicago Bears (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

Early on in this past offseason, the Chicago Bears had an opportunity to address the offensive line in a big way.

However, first-year general manager Ryan Poles opted not to, instead taking a different approach. After adding one major offensive lineman in free agency (Lucas Patrick) and drafting several on day three of the 2022 NFL Draft, Poles saw that it still wasn’t enough.

Prior to training camp, the Bears signed veterans Riley Reiff and Michael Schofield. At this stage in the game, the line is still not where it should be. But, there could be a possible trade on the horizon if Poles decides to get involved.

According to a report, the New England Patriots could be looking to trade former first-round pick, and Georgia Bulldog, offensive tackle Isaiah Wynn.

Isaiah Wynn could be a high-risk, high-reward trade option for the Chicago Bears.

Last year, the Patriots decided to pick up Wynn’s fifth-year option. However, a move like this could be coming due to the Patriots being strapped for cash and wanting to compile an additional draft pick or two while getting a bit further under the cap.

Patriots are picking up their fifth-year option on Isaiah Wynn, per @RapSheet

Wynn: 82.6 PFF Grade in 2020 (11th) pic.twitter.com/l41PUSd2sH

— PFF (@PFF) May 3, 2021

One of the reasons Wynn is a big risk is due to his injury history. The 2018 draft pick missed his entire rookie season, and has missed 15 additional games in the past three seasons. Last year was the healthiest he’s been, only missing one game.

As one of the better young tackles in football, Wynn’s upside is still obvious. The former Bulldog is only 26 years old and he’s about to play on the last year of his deal, a $10.2 million fifth-year option.

At the moment, it appears Braxton Jones, Riley Reiff and Larry Borom are competing for the two starting tackle positions. If the Bears want added competition, or believe Jones might benefit a year from starting and Borom is better as a reserve, then Wynn could be worth a flier.

Now, just what would the Bears have to give up for a one-year rental on a guy with an injury history? The answer is, likely not much. If the Patriots have put it out there that they’re wanting to move on, Wynn probably wouldn’t fetch higher than a fourth or fifth-round pick — and that’s being generous.

For a guy who’s on his way out and on the last year of his deal, the Patriots might even settle for a sixth-round pick — which the Bears very well could offer.

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Chicago Bears now have a strong trade option at offensive tackleRyan Heckmanon August 23, 2022 at 4:00 pm Read More »

Chicago Bears latest roster cuts include 2021 draft pick, 2022 signingRyan Heckmanon August 23, 2022 at 3:13 pm

Chicago Bears (Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports)

Tuesday, the Chicago Bears had to make a few more roster cuts in order to get their number down to 80 men.

In order to do so, the Bears started by terminating the contract of 2021 sixth-round pick Dazz Newsome. After being drafted by Ryan Pace and not playing much at all as a rookie, the second-year wide receiver was looking to make an impact and earn a viable spot on this team.

Unfortunately, Newsome will now search for his next opportunity as he leaves Chicago after just one year.

Along with Newsome, the Bears also chose to cut ties with 2022 free agent signing Julien Davenport, a veteran offensive tackle.

The Chicago Bears cut their roster down to 80 players on Tuesday by making their wide receiver and offensive line group a little clearer.

In cutting Newsome, this gives guys like Dante Pettis, Tajae Sharpe and Isaiah Coulter a better chance at making the roster. The Bears have Darnell Mooney, Velus Jones Jr., Equanimeous St. Brown and Byron Pringle essentially locked into roster spots right now.

That leaves a likely two spots left, unless the Bears decide to keep seven receivers for some reason. It will probably be between the three mentioned above, and maybe Nsimba Webster has an outside chance as well.

In letting go of Davenport, this likely means the Bears will keep at least three, if not four tackles. The three cemented, right now, are Larry Borom, Riley Reiff and rookie Braxton Jones. Also in the mix for a fourth tackle spot could be Shon Coleman. Plus, if Teven Jenkins sticks around, he offers flexibility at either guard or tackle.

#Bears have waived CB Bopete Keyes, DT Lacale London and FB Jake Bargas. The team terminated the contact of OT Julien Davenport. That’s along with waiving WR Dazz Newsome.

— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) August 23, 2022

To make it down to 80 players, the Bears also cut ties with defensive back Bopete Keyes, defensive tackle Lacale London and fullback Jake Bargas.

This Saturday’s final preseason game will be a big one for the depth on this Chicago roster. Next week, by August 30, the Bears have to get their roster from 80 down to 53 players. That’s one week from now that this roster goes down another 27 players.

By then, we’ll also get a chance to see if Ryan Poles’ strategy for additional wide receiver help — and maybe up front on the offensive line, too — was to wait until the rest of the NFL makes their cuts.

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Chicago Bears latest roster cuts include 2021 draft pick, 2022 signingRyan Heckmanon August 23, 2022 at 3:13 pm Read More »

Chicago Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks not returning in 2022

Chicago Cubs pitcher, Kyle Hendricks, will not be returning in the last bit of the 2022 season.

According to ESPN, right-handed pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, Kyle Hendricks, will not be returning for the rest of the 2022 season due to a slight tear in his pitching shoulder but is hopeful that he will be at full strength for the start of the next season.

Jordan Bastian

@MLBastian

Kyle Hendricks said most recent MRI revealed a capsular tear in his shoulder (estimates it’s about halfway healed now). Hopeful of being able to resume throwing before end of the season. But his focus is fully on being 100% for 2023. https://t.co/czR5qds7en

6:31 PM · Aug 22, 2022

Hendrick has been out since early July dealing with his shoulder injury that started back in May. It was initially thought he would only be out 4-6 weeks since the MRI indicated tendinitis, but more tests, after the inflammation subsided, showed a tear. Hendricks is staying very positive about the situation stating,

“With the long term in mind, and seeing where we’re at this season, I have to step back and see what’s best for myself, I’ll be able to attack a full offseason throwing program. That’s where my focus is now. Very unfortunate, obviously.”

Kyle Hendricks has one more year left on his four-year deal and will be reporting to the Cubs’ spring facility in Arizona. He is wanting to start pitching before the end of the regular season. The pitcher has indicated that it was an accumulation of work that lead to his injury not just one pitch. This injury won’t stop or slow down Hendrick as he is quoted saying,

“I want to pitch as long as I can, this is what I do. I love it. I’m never going to stop loving it.”

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Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

With support from our sponsors

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.


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Local darkwave group Kill Scenes preview a new album at the Hideout

Last month, local darkwave band Kill Scenes dropped “Acid Black Window,” the first single from the upcoming full-length album Masque. The five-piece group, anchored by songwriters Meghan Lamb (vocals) and Sean Whittaker (guitar, electronics), lace their tracks with swirling six-string textures and driving synth melodies—Gossip Wolf doesn’t doubt for a second that “Acid Black Window” would’ve been a late-night dance-floor killer at Neo during the club’s peak goth years. Lamb describes Masque as a “Lynchian interrogation of identity, power, possession, transformation, and destruction.” The album doesn’t arrive until Friday, September 23, but Kill Scenes will preview material from it when they play the Hideout on Tuesday, August 30, with opener Adoptahighway and a DJ set from Lidia Vomito. 

“Acid Black Window” is the first single from the forthcoming Kill Scenes album.

Did you know? The Reader is nonprofit. The Reader is member supported. You can help keep the Reader free for everyone—and get exclusive rewards—when you become a member. The Reader Revolution membership program is a sustainable way for you to support local, independent media.

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Since moving from Chicago to New York City in 2012, Elia Einhorn has become a multimedia mogul. Around these parts, he was best known as singer and cofounder of the Scotland Yard Gospel Choir, but lately his undertakings have included curating and hosting the excellent Sonos Radio show Music Is Everything! (which runs every two weeks) and editing his 2021 zine Sober 21. He’s also just launched Listening, a new ten-episode podcast via Talkhouse and Mailchimp Presents that features heavyweights such as Jeff Tweedy, Björk, and Jlin; it explores how musicians hear and process their environments by inviting each guest to create a piece that captures a particular experience. Einhorn’s projects often reflect his years in Chicago: an episode of Music Is Everything! from earlier this month features a crackling collaboration between local footwork producer RP Boo and bassist-composer Joshua Abrams, which is available on the show’s Mixcloud page. On the show Abrams also mentions the next Natural Information Society album, which he says will feature ten musicians; it’s provisionally titled Since Time Is Gravity, and it’ll drop on Eremite Records later this year.

The episode of Music Is Everthing! with RP Boo and Joshua Abrams was posted August 10.

In 2018, Richard Wallace, aka rapper Epic of BBU, founded the nonprofit Equity and Transformation to advocate for Black Chicagoans who depend on the informal economy (often because they’re shut out of the conventional workforce), where their work isn’t regulated or protected by the state. Among EAT’s projects is the Big Payback campaign, which aims to convince the state of Illinois to pay out tax revenue from legalized cannabis sales to survivors of the war on drugs. On Friday, August 26, EAT and event promoter 1833 throw a Big Payback fundraising concert at Metro, and it’s got a hell of a lineup: Local legend Twista headlines (no word if he’ll have Tiny Twista with him), joined by fellow Chicago hip-hop royals Do or Die, Crucial Conflict, and Shawnna. Special guest performers include Fendi Frost, Bella Bahhs, Rich Jones, and Yagi DaGoat. Fred Hampton Jr. will also make an appearance. Tickets are $51, or $46 in advance; the show starts at 9 PM.

The expanded 2022 edition of Twista’s 1997 album Adrenaline Rush

Got a tip? Tweet @Gossip_Wolf or email [email protected].

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Local darkwave group Kill Scenes preview a new album at the Hideout Read More »

Listen to The Ben Joravsky ShowBen Joravskyon August 23, 2022 at 7:01 am

Did you know? The Reader is nonprofit. The Reader is member supported. You can help keep the Reader free for everyone—and get exclusive rewards—when you become a member. The Reader Revolution membership program is a sustainable way for you to support local, independent media.

Become a member
Donate

Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

With support from our sponsors

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.


State of anxiety

Darren Bailey’s anti-Semitic abortion rhetoric is part of a larger MAGA election strategy. Sad to say, so far it’s worked.

by Ben Joravsky
August 11, 2022August 11, 2022


MAGA enablers

Andrew Yang and his third party lead the way for Trump.

by Ben Joravsky
August 3, 2022August 3, 2022


Biased driving

Mayor Lightfoot uses NASCAR to lure the “Let’s Go Brandon” crowd to town.

by Ben Joravsky
July 28, 2022July 28, 2022

Read More

Listen to The Ben Joravsky ShowBen Joravskyon August 23, 2022 at 7:01 am Read More »