Our MLB offseason tracker lists every major transaction completed.   Top 21 Pitchers   Top 20 Pos...

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 8: Ryan Pressly #55 of the Houston Astros pitches against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on June 8, 2024 in Anaheim, California.

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MLB Offseason Tracker

The January transfer window is open. Below, we're tracking every deal confirmed by the 20 Premier...

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 25: Omar Marmoush of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Chelsea FC at Etihad Stadium on January 25, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Premier League Transfer Tracker: Every deal from the January window

The January transfer period is open, and the rumor mill is in overdrive throughout world soccer. ...

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Latest news and rumors from the January transfer window

With less than three weeks until pitchers and catchers report to spring training, theScore's MLB ...

<p>With less than three weeks until pitchers and catchers report to spring training, theScore's MLB editors answer some of the biggest questions surrounding the offseason. </p><h3>Which remaining free agent would you sign if you were a GM?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749473/cropped_GettyImages-2176761658.jpg?ts=1728654318" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749473/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176761658.jpg?ts=1728654318 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749473/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176761658.jpg?ts=1728654318 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749473/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176761658.jpg?ts=1728654318 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749473/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176761658.jpg?ts=1728654318 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749473/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176761658.jpg?ts=1728654318 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rob Tringali / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Pete Alonso: </strong>Alonso's market has been surprisingly quiet considering he's hit 226 home runs over the last six seasons. He has his flaws - namely strikeouts and poor defensive metrics at first base - but his power is a game-changer. Home runs matter, especially in the postseason, when elite pitching makes it harder to string together base hits. His ninth-inning blast in the wild-card series against the Milwaukee Brewers is one of many examples of how the long ball can tip the scales. Prolific sluggers like Alonso don't become available very often, and it appears he can be had on a shorter-term deal. - <em>Ben </em><em>Wrixon</em></p><p><strong>Jack Flaherty:</strong> It's surprising Flaherty remains unemployed after one of the more effective seasons of his career. The right-hander posted a 2.95 ERA with a career-high 11.2 K/9 and career-low 1.6 BB/9 in 18 starts with the Detroit Tigers before he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he maintained solid numbers. Flaherty is only 29 years old, has a proven track record of success at the top of a rotation, and won't cost draft-pick compensation because he was ineligible to receive a qualifying offer. - <em>Bryan Mcwilliam</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Ha-Seong Kim: </strong>Kim has developed into an excellent all-around shortstop over the past three seasons. The 29-year-old improved at the plate and brings a great glove and good speed on the bases. He's accumulated 3.6, 4.2, and 2.6 fWAR over the last three campaigns. Kim's expected to miss the start of the regular season as he continues to recover from shoulder surgery, but teams looking for an upgrade at shortstop should still look at what it might take to sign him. - <em>Josh G</em><em>oldberg</em></p><p><strong><em>Update: Rays, Kim reportedly agreed to 2-year, $29M deal Jan. 29</em></strong></p><h3>Which team - other than the Dodgers - has improved the most this winter?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/cropped_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w220xh124_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w320xh180_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w640xh360_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w768xh432_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Hunger / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Athletics: </strong>The Athletics spent aggressively for the first time in years. Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs will help bolster the rotation, and José Leclerc is a proven option at the back of the bullpen. The Athletics went a respectable 32-32 after the All-Star break last season, with a number of players putting together impressive stretches. The AL West isn't quite as intimidating as it's been in the recent past, leaving the door open for the Athletics to potentially surprise some people in 2025. <em>- Goldberg</em></p><p><strong>Yankees:</strong> It's not often that a team loses a generational superstar like Juan Soto and still manages to improve, but that's exactly what the Yankees have done. They did it by spreading what would've been Soto's $700-million-plus salary around the diamond. In the weeks following Soto's departure, the reigning AL champs signed Max Fried and Paul Goldschmidt and traded for Devin Williams and Cody Bellinger. The moves allow Aaron Judge to shift back to right field while finally opening left for top prospect Jasson Domínguez. Soto's irreplaceable, but the Yankees potentially came out of this a more complete team. <em>- Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><p><strong>Mets: </strong>New York's other club unquestionably got better by landing Soto, who amassed 8.1 fWAR in 2024 and recorded at least 6.0 fWAR per season in three of the last four years. The Mets also made a lot of unheralded additions. They re-signed Sean Manaea and brought in Frankie Montas to fortify a rotation that'll be led by a healthy Kodai Senga. All-Star reliever Clay Holmes is expected to transition to a starting role but could end up back in the bullpen with newcomer A.J. Minter in high-leverage roles behind Edwin Díaz. Jose Siri and Jesse Winker provide outfield depth with potential upside. A resolution to the stalemate with Alonso could be the last piece of the puzzle in turning the Mets into a World Series contender. - <em>Tom Ruminski</em></p><h3>Which team has had the most disappointing offseason?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767741/cropped_GettyImages-2177170309.jpg?ts=1738107462" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767741/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177170309.jpg?ts=1738107462 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767741/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177170309.jpg?ts=1738107462 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767741/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177170309.jpg?ts=1738107462 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767741/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177170309.jpg?ts=1738107462 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767741/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177170309.jpg?ts=1738107462 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Orlando Ramirez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Padres</strong>: A family court battle over ownership, whiffing on Roki Sasaki, big names leaving town - it's been a Murphy's Law offseason for the Friars. They scouted the Japanese right-hander for years but were beaten out by their bitter rivals, the Dodgers, who also signed Tanner Scott to add insult to injury. Beloved clubhouse presence Jurickson Profar then departed for the Atlanta Braves. San Diego has serious holes to fill but seems to be intent on shedding payroll instead. This team feels incredibly far removed from pushing the Dodgers to the brink of elimination in October. - <em>Wrixon</em></p><p><strong>Mariners:</strong> Seattle missed last season's playoffs by one game despite one of the majors' top starting rotations. You'd think that would mean a big winter would be on the horizon from the normally aggressive Jerry Dipoto. That hasn't been the case, with the team's biggest acquisition a one-year, $3.5-million pact with Donovan Solano. The Mariners desperately need offensive upgrades after finishing 21st in runs scored last season, but no significant deals have come so far. <em>- Mcwilliam</em></p><p><strong>Orioles: </strong>Baltimore hasn't been inactive, and it even made some decent acquisitions in Charlie Morton, Tomoyuki Sugano, Gary Sánchez, and Tyler O'Neill. But it also feels like this team missed an opportunity to take the next step. The O's started 2024 with huge expectations, only to fall flat in the second half, be swept out of the wild-card series, and watch as Corbin Burnes and Anthony Santander walked away in free agency. Between that and new owner David Rubenstein musing about a salary cap, it's fair to ask if this franchise even wants to start spending again. The Orioles' young, homegrown core deserves more help than this. <em>- Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><h3>Which team needs to make a big move before spring training opens?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753889/cropped_GettyImages-2176225775.jpg?ts=1730921762" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753889/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176225775.jpg?ts=1730921762 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753889/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176225775.jpg?ts=1730921762 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753889/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176225775.jpg?ts=1730921762 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753889/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176225775.jpg?ts=1730921762 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753889/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176225775.jpg?ts=1730921762 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Tigers:</strong> President of baseball operations Scott Harris has been lurking on the periphery of the transaction wire all winter. Although he signed Gleyber Torres and Alex Cobb to one-year deals, it's clear he wants to do more, as evidenced by Detroit's involvement in the Alex Bregman sweepstakes. Getting a megadeal done with Bregman would be a great capper to the offseason, as would a reunion with Flaherty. Perhaps a need-for-need trade involving Spencer Torkelson could net an impactful return. The Tigers are riding high after a shocking playoff appearance, they employ the reigning AL Cy Young winner, and they play in a perennially weak division that's theirs for the taking. It's time for them to pounce. <em>- Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><p><strong>Blue Jays:</strong> Toronto's been trying to land a big fish all offseason, falling short in its pursuit of Soto, Burnes, and Sasaki. However, the club's winter has been pretty decent amid a general narrative that nobody wants to take the team's money. The Blue Jays signed 2024 All-Stars Anthony Santander and Jeff Hoffman, traded for 2022 All-Star Andrés Giménez, and brought in relievers Yimi García and Nick Sandlin. Yet there's still a need for another impact bat, which could be solved by convincing Alonso or Bregman to play in Canada. Bolstering an already solid rotation by adding Flaherty or<strong> </strong>Nick Pivetta could also do the trick, which would allow Yariel Rodríguez to head to the bullpen as an intriguing swingman. - <em>Ruminski</em></p><p><strong>Angels:</strong> Just when it looked like the Angels were ready to rebuild and focus on the future, Perry Minasian and his front office acquired several veteran players this winter. While the message was clear that the Angels intend to remain competitive, they still haven't made an impact acquisition. Yusei Kikuchi, Jorge Soler, Travis d'Arnaud, and Kyle Hendricks are nice pieces who should help Los Angeles improve upon its 66 wins from 2024, especially if Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon can stay healthy. But there are still holes on this team, like first base, where Alonso would be a terrific fit. <em>- Mcwilliam</em></p><h3>Which under-the-radar acquisition will have the biggest impact this season?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762908/cropped_GettyImages-2177035436.jpg?ts=1735604036" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762908/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177035436.jpg?ts=1735604036 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762908/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177035436.jpg?ts=1735604036 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762908/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177035436.jpg?ts=1735604036 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762908/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177035436.jpg?ts=1735604036 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762908/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177035436.jpg?ts=1735604036 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Diamond Images / Diamond Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Joc Pederson:</strong> The Rangers gave Pederson a two-year, $37-million contract to crush right-handed pitching, and there's no reason to think he won't do exactly that in 2025. He hit 22 home runs with a .923 OPS in 335 at-bats against righties last season, accruing an impressive 3.0 fWAR as a designated hitter. That's premium offensive production. - <em>Wrixon</em></p><p><strong>Paul Goldschmidt:</strong> The Yankees signed the former NL MVP to a one-year, $12.5-million deal after the worst offensive season of his career. Goldschmidt looks to have something left in the tank, which could lead to great value for the Yankees at a position that didn't provide much impact for them last season. The 37-year-old still hits the ball hard - 92nd percentile in hard-hit % and 82nd percentile in average exit velocity last season - is dependable against lefties (.839 OPS in 2024), and he finished strong in the second half, posting a .799 OPS with 29 extra-base hits in his final 61 games.<em> - Mcwilliam</em></p><p><strong>Max Kepler: </strong>The Phillies gave the former Twins outfielder a one-year, $10-million contract after he struggled in 2024. Kepler appeared in 105 games, hitting just eight home runs with a 94 wRC+ last season. The soon-to-be 32-year-old is just one year removed from accruing 2.8 fWAR with a 123 wRC+ and 24 home runs. Kepler's done damage against right-handed pitching throughout his career and should benefit from hitting in a lineup with as much talent as the Phillies possess. <em>- Goldberg</em></p>

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MLB Roundtable: Remaining free agents, most improved teams

NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  In this edition, we...

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p><em>In this edition, we're establishing one goal for each team for the second half of the 2024-25 campaign.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">1. Oklahoma City Thunder (37-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p><strong>Improve 3-point shooting:</strong> Their offense is stellar overall, but the Thunder rank 14th in triples made and 15th in percentage from deep. Acquiring another threat from beyond the arc would be a big help come playoff time.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">2. Cleveland Cavaliers (37-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><p><strong>Fix the leak:</strong> Cleveland's once elite defense has fallen off a cliff in January, during which only the 76ers and Wizards have worse defensive ratings. Without some correction, a deep playoff run becomes less feasible.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">3. Houston Rockets (32-14)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><p><strong>Can we get an Amen?</strong>: Amen Thompson was thrust into the starting five following Jabari Smith Jr.'s hand fracture, and the energetic defensive whiz has sparked the team with an improved offensive game. The Rockets are 13-3 when Thompson starts. Give him all the minutes he can handle.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">4. Boston Celtics (32-15)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><p><strong>Start Payton Pritchard:</strong> Jrue Holiday has been a hindrance to a Celtics squad that's barely above .500 over the last two months. The veteran guard is averaging just 10.9 points and 3.5 assists points since Dec. 1. Pritchard, meanwhile, seems ready for more responsibility.</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">5. New York Knicks (31-16)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767699/cropped_GettyImages-2193346717.jpg?ts=1738096446" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767699/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193346717.jpg?ts=1738096446 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767699/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193346717.jpg?ts=1738096446 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767699/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193346717.jpg?ts=1738096446 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767699/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193346717.jpg?ts=1738096446 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767699/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193346717.jpg?ts=1738096446 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Develop a playable bench:</strong> The Knicks sit third in the East but dead last in bench scoring per game (21.3), and their second unit plays just 12 minutes a night. New York doesn't have a single bench player averaging double digits in points.</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">6. Memphis Grizzlies (31-16)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>6</p><p><strong>Cut out the fouling:</strong> The Grizzlies are a borderline top-five defensive unit, but they allow the second-most free-throw attempts. They're fortunate that opponents are shooting just 75.4% in those opportunities - third lowest in the league.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">7. Denver Nuggets (28-18)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>7</p><p><strong>Let Russ cook:</strong> Russell Westbrook has been a positive addition to the Nuggets' starting lineup, averaging 14.7 points, 6.7 assists, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals. The 36-year-old has been rejuvenated playing under Mike Malone and alongside Nikola Jokic.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">8. Milwaukee Bucks (26-19)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>8</p><p><strong>Support Giannis' DPOY push:</strong> Giannis Antetokounmpo only has one Defensive Player of the Year award in his illustrious career. Despite the Bucks employing numerous below-average defenders - and Brook Lopez's regression - they've maintained a top-eight defensive rating.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">9. Los Angeles Lakers (26-19)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>17</p><p><strong>Get AD his center:</strong> Whether or not you agree with Anthony Davis' predilection for playing the four, he's earned the right to request another big on the roster. The Lakers can satisfy that ask without breaking the bank.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">10. Los Angeles Clippers (26-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>11</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767701/cropped_GettyImages-2196234779.jpg?ts=1738096655" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767701/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196234779.jpg?ts=1738096655 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767701/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196234779.jpg?ts=1738096655 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767701/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196234779.jpg?ts=1738096655 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767701/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196234779.jpg?ts=1738096655 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767701/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196234779.jpg?ts=1738096655 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Offense to match defense:</strong> The Clippers own the second-best defensive rating in the NBA (107.4) but the 20th-best offensive mark (110.8). Kawhi Leonard's recent return should enhance their elite defense and add scoring punch.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">11. Indiana Pacers (25-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>12</p><p><strong>Replicate last season's magic:</strong> After hovering around .500 in December 2023, the Pacers broke out, going 33-21 the rest of the way and riding that momentum to the East finals. Indiana has the seventh-easiest schedule remaining, making a repeat performance easier.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">12. Minnesota Timberwolves (25-21)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>16</p><p><strong>Develop Dillingham: </strong>The rookie is averaging 8.5 points and 2.2 assists in 14.7 minutes since entering Chris Finch's rotation. With Mike Conley not in the T-Wolves' long-term plans, getting Rob Dillingham up to speed is paramount.</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">13. Phoenix Suns (24-21)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>20</p><p><strong>Reconstruct the roster:</strong> Bradley Beal is averaging his fewest points since 2014-15 (16.9), and Jusuf Nurkic has fallen out of the rotation. Their combined cap hit of just over $68 million could be moved for multiple new options.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">14. Dallas Mavericks (25-22)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><p><strong>Get healthy:</strong> The Mavs' struggles can be attributed to the injuries they've endured halfway through the season. Regular starters Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Derek Lively II have all missed significant time, with Doncic and Lively still sidelined.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">15. Detroit Pistons (23-23)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: 15</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755290/cropped_GettyImages-2183947425.jpg?ts=1738098213" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755290/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183947425.jpg?ts=1738098213 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755290/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183947425.jpg?ts=1738098213 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755290/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183947425.jpg?ts=1738098213 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755290/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183947425.jpg?ts=1738098213 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755290/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183947425.jpg?ts=1738098213 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gary Dineen / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Limit Cade's turnovers:</strong> Cade Cunningham is having a career season that merits All-Star recognition. However, there's no glossing over the recent back-to-back 10-turnover performances that have vaulted him into the second spot in the league for giveaways per game at 4.6<strong>.</strong></p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">16. Sacramento Kings (24-22)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>13</p><p><strong>Find a 3-and-D wing:</strong> The Kings are bottom 10 in threes per game (12.5) while allowing the third-most nightly (14.5). Domantas Sabonis can't be their best outside shooter; they need to either put more trust in Keon Ellis or find an external solution.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">17. Orlando Magic (24-24)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>10</p><p><strong>Shoot better from deep:</strong> The offensively feeble Magic are a distant last in 3-point percentage (30.7%) despite being 16th in attempts. The last team to finish with a lower percentage was the 2011-12 Charlotte Bobcats (29.5%).</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">18. Miami Heat (23-22)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>14</p><p><strong>Deal with Jimmy:</strong> Moving Jimmy Butler, who's just been handed a third suspension, will be a challenge. His preferred landing spot, Phoenix, is reportedly struggling to convince Beal to waive his no-trade clause.</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">19. Golden State Warriors (23-23)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>21</p><p><strong>Limit Schroder, grab Vucevic:</strong> Dennis Schroder's averaging 11 points on 10.9 shots, contributing to the squad's shooting struggles. Adding Nikola Vucevic from the Bulls and redistributing the offensive load could solve a lot of the Warriors' problems.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">20. San Antonio Spurs (20-23)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>19</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767706/cropped_GettyImages-2189627449.jpg?ts=1738098661" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767706/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189627449.jpg?ts=1738098661 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767706/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189627449.jpg?ts=1738098661 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767706/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189627449.jpg?ts=1738098661 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767706/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189627449.jpg?ts=1738098661 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767706/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189627449.jpg?ts=1738098661 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronald Cortes / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Acquire some scoring:</strong> The Spurs are reeling amid a 2-7 stretch, and it's become painfully apparent that a bona fide second option is needed. De'Aaron Fox, who reportedly prefers a trade to San Antonio, would be an ideal remedy.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">21. Atlanta Hawks (22-25)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>18</p><p><strong>Cut down turnovers:</strong> Atlanta's offense is being undermined by its inability to hang onto the ball, averaging 16.4 giveaways per game. These mistakes have resulted in the third-most points off turnovers in the league (20.6).</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">22. Philadelphia 76ers (18-27)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>23</p><p><strong>Shut down Embiid:</strong> It's time to officially rule out former MVP Joel Embiid for the rest of the campaign, as he's played just 13 of 45 games. Let him get healthy for next season - this one is a lost cause.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">23. Chicago Bulls (20-27)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>22</p><p><strong>Bench Williams:</strong> Patrick Williams has regressed dramatically since inking a five-year, $90-million deal this summer. Things haven't improved in the new year: The 23-year-old is averaging 7.3 points on 32.3/28.9/66.7 shooting splits since Jan. 1.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">24. Toronto Raptors (14-32)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>29</p><p><strong>Get back to losing</strong>: The Raptors have won six of their last seven, which isn't ideal for a team with tanking aspirations. They need to bottom out and shift their focus from the present to the future, including the 2025 draft.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">25. Portland Trail Blazers (18-29)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>24</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761175/cropped_GettyImages-2190337480.jpg?ts=1738098822" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761175/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190337480.jpg?ts=1738098822 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761175/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190337480.jpg?ts=1738098822 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761175/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190337480.jpg?ts=1738098822 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761175/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190337480.jpg?ts=1738098822 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761175/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190337480.jpg?ts=1738098822 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Coduto / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Unleash the Scoot:</strong> The 2023 third overall pick has yet to live up to the hype, but he has shown flashes this season. Over a six-game stretch earlier in January, Scoot Henderson averaged 20.7 points on 52.1% shooting.</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">26. Charlotte Hornets (12-31)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>27</p><p><strong>Keep LaMelo healthy:</strong> The 22-year-old hasn't finished a full season since his All-Star campaign in 2021-22. Some of the Hornets' misfortune comes from Ball's inability to stay in the lineup.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">27. Brooklyn Nets (14-33)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>25</p><p><strong>Assess the kids:</strong> An unapologetic tank continues, and with players like Noah Clowney, Keon Johnson, and Tosan Evbuomwan leading the team amid a 2-13 January, it's time to determine who's worthy of participating in the rebuild and who isn't.</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">28. New Orleans Pelicans (12-35)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>28</p><p><strong>Fewer Murray pick-and-rolls:</strong> Dejounte Murray is the pick-and-roll ball-handler for 43.3% of his offensive possessions, the fourth highest in the league. His 0.77 points per pick-and-roll possession puts him below the likes of Kelly Oubre Jr. and OG Anunoby.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">29. Utah Jazz (10-35)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>26</p><p><strong>Capitalize on desperate contenders:</strong> Assuming Lauri Markkanen is off limits, Utah has multiple productive vets on manageable salaries. John Collins, Collin Sexton, Jordan Clarkson, and Svi Mykhailiuk could help title hopefuls while returning precious draft capital to the Jazz.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">30. Washington Wizards (6-39)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>30</p><p><strong>Win a road game:</strong> The Wizards won a road game in their first attempt of the season in Atlanta. They're 0-21 since and could potentially match the 1990-91 Kings' record of 40 road losses. A truly historic tank job.</p>

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NBA Power Rankings: A goal for each team in the season's 2nd half

With the Feb. 6 trade deadline a little more than a week away, theScore's NBA editors answer some...

<p><em>With the Feb. 6 trade deadline a little more than a week away, theScore's NBA editors answer some of the biggest questions around the league.</em></p><h3>Which contender needs to make a move?</h3><p><strong>Denver Nuggets:</strong> The Nuggets are within striking distance of the West's No. 2 seed after a slow start. Nikola Jokic is having another MVP-worthy campaign, Jamal Murray is looking more like his old self, and Russell Westbrook has been a nice complement to The Joker. Denver is scoring 125.3 points per 100 possessions and has an assist percentage of 68.8% when the aforementioned trio share the floor, per <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/lineups/advanced?CF=GROUP_NAME*E*westbrook:GROUP_NAME*E*murray:GROUP_NAME*E*joki&amp;GroupQuantity=3&amp;TeamID=1610612743&amp;dir=D&amp;slug=advanced&amp;sort=MIN">NBA.com</a>. The team has been linked to Zach LaVine, but adding the high-scoring guard wouldn't solve its defensive issues. A 3-and-D wing or backup center should take precedence instead. The prospect of DeAndre Jordan playing 15-20 minutes in a meaningful playoff game is worrisome. - <em>Chicco Nacion</em></p><p><strong>Milwaukee Bucks: </strong>After crawling out from the East basement, the red-hot Bucks seem primed to finish with a top-four record thanks to the play of Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak is averaging a career-high 31.4 points, marking his third straight season of more than 30 a game. Damian Lillard looks more comfortable in his second season in Milwaukee, scoring 25.2 points a night while shooting 38.3% from deep. Outside of that key duo and starters Brook Lopez and Andre Jackson Jr., no other player on the roster should be considered untouchable. The Bucks reportedly have made Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, and Pat Connaughton available for trade, which could help them land a notable player. <em>- Donald Higney</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Oklahoma City Thunder:</strong> The Thunder have been stockpiling draft picks for years, and eventually they'll have to use them. With 27 selections in the next five seasons - including five first-rounders at the 2025 draft - the Thunder won't have enough roster space to accommodate all their potential players. Championship windows never last as long as fans expect. So, when you have one of the league's three best players, you should have a certain level of urgency. With Chet Holmgren out of the lineup, Oklahoma has only three double-digit scorers and no elite self-creators apart from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Yes, last season's deadline acquisition of Gordon Hayward didn't work out, but that doesn't mean general manager Sam Presti should sit tight and do nothing when his team has one of the best defenses of the past 10 years. <em>- Thomas Tittley</em></p><h3>What's an unlikely trade we'd like to see?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764192/cropped_GettyImages-2192888710.jpg?ts=1737981270" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764192/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192888710.jpg?ts=1737981270 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764192/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192888710.jpg?ts=1737981270 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764192/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192888710.jpg?ts=1737981270 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764192/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192888710.jpg?ts=1737981270 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764192/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192888710.jpg?ts=1737981270 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Bachman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Zion WIlliamson to Grizzlies: </strong>New Orleans keeps trying to make the Zion era work, but the connection just doesn't seem to be there. He cannot stay healthy and was recently suspended. The Pelicans are reportedly prioritizing trading Brandon Ingram, but it's enticing to picture a change of scenery for Zion. The Grizzlies are on the cusp of contention, and pairing the top two picks from the 2019 NBA Draft would push them over the edge. Zion would provide some elite paint presence, and his slashing ability is exactly what Memphis needs. The level of competitiveness could serve Zion well, and battling for a title might bring out the superstar abilities we have yet to see. Plus, a Ja Morant-Zion lob connection would be electric. <em>- Joseph Luca Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Jimmy Butler to Rockets:</strong> Houston general manager Rafael Stone has already vocalized his intentions to develop internally as opposed to trading for a star this season. It's hard to blame him. The Rockets are playing with house money, and making a splash at the deadline probably won't raise their ceiling much higher. There is no need to rush the process with Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green locked in for at least another two seasons. But it'd be intriguing to see how Butler would fit with his hometown club. He'd give the Rockets a true go-to player in the clutch and be a fit with Ime Udoka's defensive culture. Joel Embiid has spoken positively about his brief experience with Butler, and the six-time All-Star could similarly serve as a mentor for Houston's young core. <em>- Nacion</em></p><p><strong>Cam Johnson to Thunder: </strong>What if the league's best team added another perimeter threat who could offer additional positional versatility? While the Thunder were burned by the Hayward trade last season, Johnson's excellent play for the lowly Brooklyn Nets would add a new dimension to Oklahoma City's offense. The 28-year-old is shooting 42% from deep on 3.2 attempts per game, which would significantly boost the Thunder's ranks in threes made per game (13.8) and shooting percentage from deep (35.8). OKC has an abundance of first-round picks, numerous prospects, and its choice of filler contracts to match Johnson's $22.5-million salary. <em>- Higney</em></p><h3>Who will be the biggest star moved at the deadline?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757320/cropped_GettyImages-2186099976.jpg?ts=1732589393" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757320/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186099976.jpg?ts=1732589393 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757320/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186099976.jpg?ts=1732589393 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757320/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186099976.jpg?ts=1732589393 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757320/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186099976.jpg?ts=1732589393 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757320/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186099976.jpg?ts=1732589393 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Haynes / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>CJ McCollum: </strong>The NBA landscape changed with the adoption of the new salary cap and its second-apron rules. Teams have less flexibility to make blockbuster moves. So, as fun as it would be to see someone like Trae Young get traded unexpectedly, it's unlikely. McCollum is putting up the fifth-highest points per game of his career (22) and has shot nearly 40% from deep throughout his 12 seasons in the league. While his price point might seem high ($33.3 million), McCollum has only one year left on his contract, which also happens to be descending to $30.6 million next season. Teams such as the Orlando Magic or Oklahoma City Thunder could use a scoring boost off the bench as they approach the postseason. <em>- Tittley</em></p><p><strong>Zach LaVine: </strong>The Bulls have been mediocre for years, and with LaVine having the best shooting season of his career, it makes sense to get as much for him as possible. He holds a shooting split of 51.2/44.4/79.2, and at 29, he should draw tremendous interest. Many contending teams would benefit from another scoring threat like LaVine, who is putting up a team-high 24 points a night. He would slot in nicely on teams like the Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, or Los Angeles Lakers as an elite second option behind stars Nikola Jokic, Stephen Curry, or Anthony Davis.<strong> </strong><em>- Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Brandon Ingram:</strong> The writing has been on the wall for Ingram since he and the Pelicans were unable to agree on an extension last summer.<strong> </strong>The former No. 2 overall pick is on an expiring deal and there's no reason to keep him beyond the trade deadline, especially with the playoffs already out of reach. Ingram was the centerpiece of the Anthony Davis blockbuster trade with the Lakers and developed into an All-Star during his first campaign in the Big Easy. His shot-creating skills and passing ability would be a helpful addition for any team looking to upgrade its half-court offense. <strong> </strong>- <em>Nacion</em></p><h3>Which team needs to be sellers at the deadline?</h3><p><strong>Chicago Bulls:<em> </em></strong>A roster overhaul has been long overdue for the Bulls, but now they seem more likely to part ways with key pieces. LaVine will draw major interest thanks to his high-level shooting abilities, but center Nikola Vucevic could also garner suitors. The 34-year-old is averaging an efficient 20.1 points on 61.8% effective field-goal percentage, his best scoring season since joining the Bulls. Patrick Williams is another player who could improve in a new environment, as the franchise is reportedly open to trading the former fourth overall pick amid the underwhelming start to his career. Even Lonzo Ball, playing his first full campaign in 2.5 seasons, could improve a team's guard depth. - <em>Higney</em></p><p><strong>Los Angeles Clippers: </strong> The Clippers swung for the fences year after year, mortgaging their future for Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Paul George. It didn't work - George is in Philadelphia, Leonard can't stay healthy, and Harden is 35. The Clippers traded everything that wasn't nailed to the floor to try to win a title, and as a result, they don't own a draft selection until 2030. At 26-19, L.A. is sixth in the West and has been one of the better stories of the season, but it's time to attempt to recoup some of those lost picks. Norman Powell's $19-million deal is a bargain and should be at the top of most teams' deadline wish lists. Similarly, Amir Coffey and Ivica Zubac would be useful additions for a number of franchises. <em>- Tittley</em></p><p><strong>Toronto Raptors: </strong>The Raptors are not good. Sitting 26th in the NBA, it makes sense to prepare for the future. Toronto's front office should be doing whatever it can to ship out aging players such as Kelly Olynyk, Bruce Brown, and Chris Boucher. Olynyk and Brown might not generate much interest because of recent injuries, but there is no reason they should remain in Canada past the trade deadline. Boucher, on the other hand, is having his best season since 2020-21, averaging 10.7 points, which is 4.3 more than 2023-24. He is also shooting a career-best 36.6% from three. Many contenders will be looking for a spark plug like him off the bench.<strong> </strong><em>- Casciaro</em></p>

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Roundball Roundtable: Trade deadline edition

This is the eighth in-season edition of theScore's NHL Power Rankings for the 2024-25 campaign. C...

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NHL Power Rankings: 1 word to summarize each team

We've been busy at theScore! From exciting new features to enhancements that make your experience...

<p><strong>We've been busy at theScore!</strong> From exciting new features to enhancements that make your experience better than ever, we're constantly working to bring you the best in sports and entertainment. Here's a look at what's new, what's improved, and a sneak peek at what's coming next. <strong>Stay ahead of the game with theScore by updating your app now!</strong></p><h3>Game Insights (Bet Mode On) 🧐</h3><p>Are you jumping from page-to-page on theScore to piece together an insight on a player or team ahead of a game?</p><p>Well, we're about to make this a lot easier for you. <strong>Our new Game Insights feature will show you player and team trends right on Matchup and ScoreCast pages!</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766854/cropped_insights.jpg?ts=1737646740" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766854/w220xh124_insights.jpg?ts=1737646740 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766854/w320xh180_insights.jpg?ts=1737646740 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766854/w640xh360_insights.jpg?ts=1737646740 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766854/w768xh432_insights.jpg?ts=1737646740 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766854/w1080xh607_insights.jpg?ts=1737646740 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">theScore</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Clips 🍿</h3><p>Dive into the action like never before with Clips! <strong>Get real-time updates and game highlights right from the Matchup and ScoreCast pages, as well as a range of original content produced by theScore.</strong> Whether it's game-winning goals, sensational plays, fan reactions, and behind the scenes content, stay up to date with Clips.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766855/cropped_clips.jpg?ts=1737646910" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766855/w220xh124_clips.jpg?ts=1737646910 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766855/w320xh180_clips.jpg?ts=1737646910 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766855/w640xh360_clips.jpg?ts=1737646910 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766855/w768xh432_clips.jpg?ts=1737646910 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766855/w1080xh607_clips.jpg?ts=1737646910 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">theScore</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Automated Live Activities &amp; Events 🚦</h3><p>We listened to your feedback and <strong>added automation to Live Activities &amp; Live Events!</strong></p><p>Don't miss a minute of the action: follow your favorite teams and have their games automatically pinned to your lock screen!</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766856/cropped_live_activities.jpg?ts=1737647058" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766856/w220xh124_live_activities.jpg?ts=1737647058 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766856/w320xh180_live_activities.jpg?ts=1737647058 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766856/w640xh360_live_activities.jpg?ts=1737647058 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766856/w768xh432_live_activities.jpg?ts=1737647058 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766856/w1080xh607_live_activities.jpg?ts=1737647058 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">theScore</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Coming soon 👀</h3><p><strong>New League: PWHL!</strong></p><p>We heard your requests and are thrilled to announce an <strong>exciting expansion of our PWHL coverage!</strong> In addition to our current news updates, you'll soon be able to <strong>follow your favorite teams and players, subscribe to alerts, and track live game updates and statistics - all within theScore.</strong> Stay tuned for more!</p><p><strong>Soccer ScoreCast</strong></p><p>Attention all soccer fans! Get ready for an exciting new Soccer ScoreCast experience: <strong>a visually enhanced ScoreCast page that allows you to follow your favorite teams and top matches in real time.</strong></p><p>Experience the action like never before with our live-updating ball tracer, tracking every pass, shot, and corner kick as it happens. Stay immersed in the game and never miss an exciting moment!</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766858/cropped_soccer_scorecast.jpg?ts=1737647353" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766858/w220xh124_soccer_scorecast.jpg?ts=1737647353 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766858/w320xh180_soccer_scorecast.jpg?ts=1737647353 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766858/w640xh360_soccer_scorecast.jpg?ts=1737647353 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766858/w768xh432_soccer_scorecast.jpg?ts=1737647353 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766858/w1080xh607_soccer_scorecast.jpg?ts=1737647353 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">theScore</span></figcaption></figure><h3>What's next? You tell us</h3><p>Lastly, we've got some big ideas but we want to hear from you: <strong>what features do you want to see from theScore next year?</strong></p><p>We'd love to know, and we'll be canvassing the comments section for your feedback, or you can reach out to us at <a href="mailto:support@thescore.com">support@thescore.com</a>.</p><p>Thanks for making theScore your home for sports. </p>

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What's new on theScore 🎉

Details on every deal made before the NBA's Feb. 6 trade deadline.  Jan. 21  Suns add more future...

<p><em>Details on every deal made before the NBA's Feb. 6 trade deadline.</em></p><h3>Jan. 21</h3><p><strong>Suns add more future picks</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Suns receive</th>
<th>Jazz receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st-round pick (2025 CLE or MIN)</td>
<td> 1st-round pick (2031)</td>
</tr>
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<td>1st-round pick (2027 CLE/MIN/UTA)</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
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<td>1st-round pick (2029 CLE/MIN/UTA)</td>
<td></td>
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</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Jan. 15</h3><p><strong>Suns reshuffle frontcourt with Richards recruitment</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Suns receive</th>
<th>Hornets receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>C Nick Richards</td>
<td> G Josh Okogie</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd-round pick (2025 DEN)</td>
<td> 2nd-round pick (2026 DEN)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>2nd-round pick (2031 DEN)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>2nd-round pick (2031)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Dec. 29</h3><p><strong>Lakers ship Russell to Nets for 2nd time</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Nets receive</th>
<th>Lakers receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>G D'Angelo Russell</td>
<td>F Dorian Finney-Smith</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F Maxwell Lewis</td>
<td>G Shake Milton</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd-round pick (2027)</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd-round pick (2030)</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd-round pick (2031)</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Dec. 15</h3><p><strong>Warriors tap Nets for veteran guard Schroder</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Warriors receive</th>
<th>Nets receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>G Dennis Schroder</td>
<td>G De'Anthony Melton</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd-round pick (2025 MIA)</td>
<td>G Reece Beekman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>2nd-round pick (2026 ATL) </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>2nd-round pick (2028 ATL) </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>2nd-round pick (2029) </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Pacers address injuries at center with Bryant trade</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pacers receive</th>
<th>Heat receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>C Thomas Bryant</td>
<td>2nd-round pick swap (2031)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 02: D'Angelo Russell #1 of the Brooklyn Nets reacts to an officials call] during the first half of a game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on January 02, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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NBA Trade Deadline Tracker

Wayne Gretzky's record of 894 career goals was once thought to be unbreakable, but Alex Ovechkin ...

<p>Wayne Gretzky's record of 894 career goals was once thought to be unbreakable, but Alex Ovechkin had other ideas. </p><p>The Washington Capitals superstar has scored at a prodigious rate throughout his 20-year NHL career, and he now sits just 20 goals from passing The Great One's all-time mark.</p><p>With the record firmly in Ovi's sights, we'll be tracking his chase the rest of the way.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>20 goals to go</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">He's now just 20 goal away from breaking the record! 📝<br><br>Absolutely incredible! <a href="https://t.co/LxFZDbXBVx">pic.twitter.com/LxFZDbXBVx</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1882666063852102001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Goal No. 875</strong><br><strong>When: </strong>Jan. 23, 2025<br><strong>Where: </strong>Climate Pledge Arena<br><strong>Opponent: </strong>Seattle Kraken<br><strong>Opposing goalie: </strong>Empty-net goal</p><p>Ovechkin pulled within 20 of passing Gretzky with an empty-netter to seal Washington's 3-0 victory in Seattle. It's the 62nd such goal of his career, already the most of all time.</p><h3>21 goals to go</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">874.<br><br>ALEX OVECHKIN IS 21 GOALS AWAY FROM WAYNE GRETZKY'S RECORD! <a href="https://t.co/v6IE9z0FWX">pic.twitter.com/v6IE9z0FWX</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1880082301943448000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Goal No. 874</strong><br><strong>When: </strong>Jan. 16, 2025<br><strong>Where: </strong>Canadian Tire Centre<br><strong>Opponent: </strong>Ottawa Senators<br><strong>Opposing goalie: </strong>Leevi Merilainen</p><p>Ovechkin sunk the Senators with a wicked wrister to move within 21 goals of Gretzky. The Capitals icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3192010" href="https://thescore.com/news/3192010">made history</a> with this tally, scoring on the 179th netminder of his career to break his tie with Jaromir Jagr for the all-time record.</p><h3>22 goals to go</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">22 TO GO! 🚨<br><br>Alex Ovechkin has his 20th goal of the season and is 22 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record! <a href="https://t.co/FFKtQXF4Ih">pic.twitter.com/FFKtQXF4Ih</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1878287560528523513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Goal No. 873</strong><br><strong>When: </strong>Jan. 11, 2025<br><strong>Where: </strong>Bridgestone Arena<br><strong>Opponent: </strong>Nashville Predators<br><strong>Opposing goalie: </strong>Empty-net goal</p><p>Ovechkin blocked a shot late in regulation and cruised to goal No. 873 with a sweat-free finish to seal a victory for the Capitals. Although it was an empty-netter, the marker was significant: Ovi <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3184097" href="https://thescore.com/news/3184097">joined Gordie Howe</a> on the exclusive list of players to record 20 straight 20-goal seasons.</p><h3>23 goals to go</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ONE GOAL CLOSER TO HISTORY! OVECHKIN IS 23 AWAY! <br><br>📺: ABC &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNPlus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ESPNPlus</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/S5tPrXCygm">https://t.co/S5tPrXCygm</a> <a href="https://t.co/puEAWZFLYr">pic.twitter.com/puEAWZFLYr</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1875631396187689389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Goal No. 872</strong><br><strong>When:</strong> Jan. 4, 2025<br><strong>Where:</strong> Capital One Arena<br><strong>Opponent:</strong> New York Rangers<br><strong>Opposing goalie:</strong> Jonathan Quick</p><p>Ovechkin came back from a 16-game absence due to a broken fibula and picked up right where he left off. He scored his fourth goal in the five contests after his return by tucking one just under Jonathan Quick's pad. The tally gave the Capitals a 5-3 lead and would stand as the game-winner in Washington's 7-4 victory, the 133rd game-winning goal of the Russian's magnificent career.</p><h3>24 goals to go</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ALEX OVECHKIN 🦅<br><br>He only needs 24 more goals to pass Wayne Gretzky! <a href="https://t.co/FqKGxbTDVL">pic.twitter.com/FqKGxbTDVL</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1874993970717102485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Goal No. 871<br>When:</strong> Jan. 2, 2025<br><strong>Where:</strong> Capital One Arena<br><strong>Opponent:</strong> Minnesota Wild<br><strong>Opposing goalie:</strong> Marc-Andre Fleury</p><p>Ovechkin beat Marc-Andre Fleury, his longtime rival, with a long-range wrister late in the second period of Washington's first game of 2025. It was Ovechkin's 28th career goal on Fleury, marking the most he's scored against any netminder. Fleury would get the last laugh, though: The Wild earned a 4-3 shootout victory.</p><h3>25 goals to go</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Another goal closer for the Gr8! 🚨 <a href="https://t.co/2oAIHfdLDX">pic.twitter.com/2oAIHfdLDX</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1873500323295146474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Goal No. 870<br>When:</strong> Dec. 29, 2024<br><strong>Where:</strong> Little Caesars Arena<br><strong>Opponent:</strong> Detroit Red Wings<br><strong>Opposing goalie:</strong> Alex Lyon</p><p>Ovechkin got closer to passing Gretzky's all-time mark in the final days of 2024. He ripped a snap one-timer from the faceoff circle in the first period, though the Red Wings took a 4-1 lead after the frame en route to a 4-2 victory.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29960196/related

The GR8 Chase: Ovechkin 20 goals from passing Gretzky

Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and ...

<p><em>Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and contentious debates in the NHL and beyond.</em></p><p><em>Subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thescore">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4uKsxIahXBXkpuvYHeP9Jz?si=5c270e0ec3b0405e">Spotify</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/top-shelf/id1784581959">Apple</a>. Episodes drop every Tuesday.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ItRR5rzlV2g?si=zbPQHbne54IoC3uu" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Hosts Aidan Thakkar, Levi Smith, Kyle Cushman, and John Matisz cover a wide range of topics in this week's episode, including:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>McDavid deserved his suspension (00:00)</li>
<li>Unpacking the J.T. Miller trade market (04:15)</li>
<li>Is Cale Makar on an all-timer trajectory? (11:35)</li>
<li>Canadiens executing near-perfect rebuild (17:30)</li>
<li>PWHL storylines at one-third mark (25:45)</li>
<li>Sidney Crosby's average Joe qualities (31:20)</li>
<li>Trivia! Guessing quarter-century teams (34:18)</li>
</ul><p><strong>Skyscanner | Score Top Shelf Travel Deals</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/yvr/cheap-flights-to-vancouver-international-airport.html?irclickid=_vynocdvytgkfay2wudy93k31v32201i6xx30ru6w00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep7Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1737485320055&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Vancouver</a></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/ymqa/cheap-flights-to-montreal.html?irclickid=_vynocdvytgkfay2wudy93k31v32201i62d30ru6w00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep7Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1737485335518&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Montreal</a></p>

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Top Shelf: McDavid's suspension, J.T. Miller trade scenarios, and more

With the 2025 Baseball Hall of Fame class set to be announced Tuesday, 14 of theScore's news edit...

<p>With the 2025 Baseball Hall of Fame class set to be announced Tuesday, 14 of theScore's news editors submitted mock ballots revealing which players they believe are worthy of enshrinement in Cooperstown. We also have the <a href="#User%20ballot">results of our user ballot</a> at the bottom of the article.</p><h3>Inducted</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Players</th>
<th>Votes</th>
<th>Percentage</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ichiro Suzuki</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>100%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CC Sabathia</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>86%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Billy Wagner</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>86%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andruw Jones</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>78%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>We elected four members to Cooperstown, with Ichiro the lone player on the ballot to receive 14 votes. Sabathia also gets elected in his first year on our ballot, while Wagner and Jones join this year's class after each falling one vote short on our ballots last winter.</p><h3>Missed the cut</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Players</th>
<th>Votes</th>
<th>Percentage</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Carlos Beltrán</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>71%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alex Rodriguez</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>64%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Manny Ramirez</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>64%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Félix Hernández</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>50%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chase Utley</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>43%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bobby Abreu</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>43%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andy Pettitte</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>21%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell Martin</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dustin Pedroia</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ian Kinsler</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>7%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Beltrán missed out by a single vote for a second straight year. Neither Rodriguez or Ramirez were able to pick up additional consideration from our voters. First-timers Martin, Pedroia, and Kinsler picked up the necessary 5% to not fall off our hypothetical ballots.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Notables falling off our ballot</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Players</th>
<th>Percentage</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Carlos González</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Curtis Granderson</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Torii Hunter</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adam Jones</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian McCann</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hanley Ramirez</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fernando Rodney</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Francisco Rodríguez</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jimmy Rollins</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Troy Tulowitzki</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Omar Vizquel</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Wright</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Zobrist</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3><a id="User ballot" name="User%20ballot">Results from our user ballot</a></h3><p>Our users elected Ichiro as the lone member of their 2025 class after not electing anyone last year. </p><p>Thanks for participating. We received 10,370 ballots. Check out the full results below. 👇</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Players</th>
<th>Votes</th>
<th>Percentage</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Ichiro Suzuki</strong></td>
<td><strong>9203</strong></td>
<td><strong>89%</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> </td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CC Sabathia</td>
<td>5988</td>
<td>58%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Manny Ramirez</td>
<td>5533</td>
<td>53% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andruw Jones</td>
<td>5419</td>
<td>52% ⬇️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alex Rodriguez</td>
<td>5225</td>
<td>50% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Billy Wagner</td>
<td>4687</td>
<td>45% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andy Pettitte</td>
<td>4088</td>
<td>39% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carlos Beltrán</td>
<td>3912</td>
<td>38% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Félix Hernández</td>
<td>3530</td>
<td>34% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dustin Pedroia</td>
<td>2752</td>
<td>27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Omar Vizquel</td>
<td>2129</td>
<td>21% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chase Utley</td>
<td>2062</td>
<td>20%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bobby Abreu</td>
<td>1915</td>
<td>18% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Torii Hunter</td>
<td>1877</td>
<td>18% ⬆️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jimmy Rollins</td>
<td>1784</td>
<td>17% ⬇️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Buehrle</td>
<td>1747</td>
<td>17% ⬇️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Wright</td>
<td>1597</td>
<td>15%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell Martin</td>
<td>936</td>
<td>9%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Troy Tulowitzki</td>
<td>829</td>
<td>8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Francisco Rodríguez</td>
<td>825</td>
<td>8% ⬇️</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Curtis Granderson</td>
<td>707</td>
<td>7%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian McCann</td>
<td>474</td>
<td>5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adam Jones</td>
<td>385</td>
<td>4% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ian Kinsler</td>
<td>373</td>
<td>4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Zobrist</td>
<td>373</td>
<td>4%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carlos González</td>
<td>301</td>
<td>3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hanley Ramirez</td>
<td>253</td>
<td>2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fernando Rodney</td>
<td>167</td>
<td>2%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 15: Ichiro Suzuki﻿ throws the ceremonial first pitch during Seattle’s home opener between the Mariners and the Houston Astros at T-Mobile Park on Friday, April 15, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. Ichiro will be inducted into the Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame in August.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29917573/related

theScore's mock HOF ballot: We vote 4 players in, users elect Ichiro

With the 2024-25 campaign now in its second half, here's a look at the 10 players who are making ...

<p>With the 2024-25 campaign now in its second half, here's a look at the 10 players who are making the strongest case for the NBA's most prestigious individual accolade.</p><p><em>The NBA's 65-game minimum for end-of-season awards means some stars are already ruled out, such as Joel Embiid, Luka Doncic, and Ja Morant.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: N JOKIC (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-WTBEc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/WTBEc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="68" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: Not Ranked </em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>39</td>
<td>60.5</td>
<td>48.4</td>
<td>76.7</td>
<td>14.2</td>
<td>6.3</td>
<td>20.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Sabonis has been fantastic for a surging Sacramento Kings squad that has only lost once<strong> </strong>in 2025. De'Aaron Fox is the team's leading scorer, but he has a negative on-off differential per 100 possessions (minus-4). Sabonis, on the other hand, is in the league's 95th percentile; Sacramento is plus-9.4 per 100 possessions when he's on the court.</p><p>It's uncommon to find a big man who can score, create for others, and rebound at a high level. Sabonis, the Association's leading rebounder, is elite at all three. Only three players are averaging at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game this season - Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Sabonis.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: N JOKIC (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-RteOh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/RteOh/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: Not Ranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>40</td>
<td>49</td>
<td>34.4</td>
<td>77.6</td>
<td>6.3</td>
<td>2.1</td>
<td>22.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Jackson is a steadfast force for the Grizzlies. Ja Morant missed his 18th game Friday, which means the guard won't reach the 65-game award minimum. Jackson, meanwhile, has been more than just available; he's been dominant at both ends. The 25-year-old is averaging a career-best and team-high 22.6 points on slightly lower usage (28.4%) than last year (30.2%), and he's pairing a personal-best 1.5 steals per game with 1.7 blocks.</p><p>It isn't a stretch to say the former Defensive Player of the Year is a bigger factor in Memphis' success this season than anyone else. He's one of just two Grizzlies to play over 1,000 minutes this season, and the team's net rating is at its second worst (4.1) when he sits.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: N JOKIC (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XS0Qu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XS0Qu/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: Not Ranked</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>47.3</td>
<td>35.4</td>
<td>84.5</td>
<td>10.8</td>
<td>3.7</td>
<td>24.4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Wembanyama is the front-runner in the race for Most Improved Player due to his stellar defensive play. He leads the league in total blocks (144) and blocks per game (4) by a wide margin and recently won the NBA's new Defensive Player of the Month award. The 21-year-old is also the first player this century to average more than four swats and <a href="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/blk_per_g_season.html">holds</a> the 15th-highest figure in a single season.</p><p>The Spurs are continuing to let Wembanyama experiment offensively, allowing him to handle the ball and create opportunities for himself and teammates instead of using him in a defined role. The French phenom will only become more versatile with time - a truly alarming thought for opposing teams.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-OvzH9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OvzH9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 8</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td>52</td>
<td>31.8</td>
<td>78.4</td>
<td>11.8</td>
<td>3.5</td>
<td>25.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's hard to overstate how much work Davis has to do to fill the holes in the Los Angeles Lakers' porous defense. Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, and the recently traded D'Angelo Russell deserve some of the blame, but the No. 1 culprit is LeBron James. The 40-year-old's minus-9.2 is the fifth-worst plus-minus per 100 possessions in the NBA (minimum 600 minutes played).</p><p>Davis is third in the Association with 2.2 blocks per game. Only Wembanyama and Dyson Daniels boast more stocks (steals plus blocks) per game than Davis' average of 3.5, and the 31-year-old continues to improve his efficiency on the offensive side of the court. He's averaging the second-highest 2-point field-goal percentage of his career to go along with his best assist rate (17%) since he joined the Lakers in 2019.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: J BRUNSON (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-cHPCn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/cHPCn/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 7 </em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>38</td>
<td>55</td>
<td>44.9</td>
<td>83.6</td>
<td>13.9</td>
<td>3.3</td>
<td>25.4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The self-proclaimed "greatest shooting big man of all time" is certainly living up to the moniker this season. Towns is on pace to become the only 7-footer in league history to shoot over 44% from downtown over the course of a season with at least four attempts per game.</p><p>But the remainder of Towns' game is also evolving after he moved to NYC in the offseason. The 29-year-old is the NBA's second-leading rebounder, and his 2.6 turnovers per game are the fewest since his junior season in 2017-18. Towns' contribution to the team becomes most apparent when he's absent from New York's lineup - the 27-16 Knicks possess a 2-3 record in the five games without the former No. 1 pick and are a combined minus-27 in those contests.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: J TATUM (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qza9z" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qza9z/5/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 5</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>39</td>
<td>45.9</td>
<td>35.8</td>
<td>79.9</td>
<td>9.3</td>
<td>5.4</td>
<td>27.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Something has been bogging down the Celtics' shooting since the new year, including Tatum's. He was knocking down just 30.9% of his team-high 9.7 long-range attempts per game until Friday, when he went 4-for-9 against the Orlando Magic. However, the troubles returned immediately in their next game against the Atlanta Hawks. Tatum went 7-for-21 from the field and 2-of-9 from three as Boston fell in overtime.</p><p>But despite his shooting troubles, Tatum is still averaging 25.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, five assists, and 1.4 steals per game in January. Those numbers are helping the Celtics stay within touching distance of the Cavs and above the mess beneath them in the East standings.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: D MITCHELL (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qUMDI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qUMDI/6/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 6</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>39</td>
<td>44.6</td>
<td>40.1</td>
<td>82.6</td>
<td>4.5</td>
<td>4.5</td>
<td>23.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The offensive engine of the league's best team deserves some recognition for MVP. Donovan Mitchell remains potent despite averaging the fewest amount of points since his rookie season. His improved shot selection is contributing to the team's success and allowing Darius Garland and Evan Mobley to focus on scoring.</p><p>What's holding him back from the top three are his performances against the Western Conference's best team. Mitchell averaged 9.5 points, four rebounds, and three assists while shooting 19% from the field in two contests against the Oklahoma City Thunder.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: G ANTETOKOUNMPO (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-eRpOj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/eRpOj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 2</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>60.5</td>
<td>15.4</td>
<td>58.7</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>31.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Antetokounmpo is flying under the radar in the MVP conversation. He's averaging more points per game than Nikola Jokic and as many as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s leading scorer.</p><p>The Greek Freak finds himself taking on more offensive responsibility, as only one other player on the team is averaging more than 13.3 points – Damian Lillard, who looks more comfortable in his second full season in Milwaukee. Antetokounmpo's scoring allowed the Bucks to recover from a 2-8 start to the season and is driving his MVP campaign.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: N JOKIC (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ii8V8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ii8V8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>56.1</td>
<td>47.1</td>
<td>80.6</td>
<td>13.2</td>
<td>9.9</td>
<td>30.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>How can you sum up the two-time reigning MVP's performance this season without repeating yourself? Here's one way - he's the only player in the NBA to rank in the top three<strong> </strong>in points (third, 30.1), rebounds (third, 13.2), and assists (second, 9.9) per game. No player has ever led all three categories by season's end, but Jokic is showing it can be done.</p><p>It's bewildering how much worse the Nuggets are without him on the court. They understandably regress offensively when he sits, but their defensive rating also suffers each time he's on the bench. Jokic has never been regarded as an elite defensive big, but he's providing irreplaceable value for Denver at <em>both </em>ends this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-LgpHR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LgpHR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><em>Previous: 3</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>PTS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>41</td>
<td>53.2</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>90</td>
<td>5.3</td>
<td>6.1</td>
<td>31.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>At some point, we need to reward the most impactful player on the NBA's most dominant team. It's why Gilgeous-Alexander has leapfrogged Jokic and Antetokounmpo for the No. 1 spot in our MVP rankings. </p><p>The Thunder are smothering teams with their defense, and Gilgeous-Alexander has been elite on that end of the floor. Opponents are shooting a measly 40.8% when being guarded by the two-time All-Star.</p><p>The Kentucky product is also the straw that stirs Oklahoma's offense. Gilgeous-Alexander is the NBA's leading scorer and is averaging nearly 11 more points than his closest teammate (Jalen Williams is scoring 20.6 points per game). The 6-foot-6 guard does most of his damage inside the paint. He leads the league with 21.3 drives per contest and is shooting 71.6% within five feet of the rim. To put that into context, Shaquille O'Neal shot 71.7% around the rim during his 1999-00 MVP season with the Los Angeles Lakers.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29910301/related

NBA MVP Rankings: SGA in pole position for silverware

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>In this edition, we assess matters as the 2024-25 campaign hits the halfway point.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">1. Cleveland Cavaliers (34-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p>In the battle of multi-game winning streaks, it was Cleveland ending Oklahoma City's run of 15 straight victories. Nearly 80% of the Cavs' wins have come during their two winning streaks, a sign of complete dominance.</p><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">2. Oklahoma City Thunder (33-6)</a></h3><p>Previous: 1 </p><p>Despite the loss to the Cavs, OKC still beat two of the East's best teams last week and boasts the league's best defensive rating with an absurd 102.9<strong> </strong>mark. And the Thunder are still missing Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">3. Boston Celtics (28-11)</a></h3><p>Previous: 4</p><p>Joe Mazzulla's men may have left their 3-point shooting in 2024. In six games in the new year, the Celtics are attempting the most threes (43.7) but hitting only 32.8% - the fifth-worst mark in January.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">4. Houston Rockets (26-12)</a></h3><p>Previous: 6</p><p>Houston has gone 5-1 in 2025 and jumped into second place in the West. Jalen Green has also caught fire, contributing a team-high 30 points per game on 51.2/45.6/92.3 shooting splits since the calendar flipped.</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">5. New York Knicks (26-15)</a></h3><p>Previous: 3</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765365/cropped_GettyImages-2191014600.jpg?ts=1736890293" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765365/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191014600.jpg?ts=1736890293 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765365/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191014600.jpg?ts=1736890293 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765365/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191014600.jpg?ts=1736890293 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765365/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191014600.jpg?ts=1736890293 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765365/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191014600.jpg?ts=1736890293 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Graythen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Knicks' dirty little secret is that they struggle to beat good teams. New York is 1-6 against the NBA's top eight squads and only 12-12 versus clubs with a winning record.</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">6. Memphis Grizzlies (25-15)</a></h3><p>Previous: 5</p><p>Even with Ja Morant's 16 missed games, the Grizzlies' depth and two-way play have them keeping pace in the conference. Memphis deserves to stay together to see how deep it can go in the playoffs.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">7. Denver Nuggets (24-15)</a></h3><p>Previous: 12</p><p>Russell Westbrook has settled into his role with the Nuggets. The former MVP is averaging 16.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 7.5 rebounds since Jan. 1 - Denver is 6-2 in those contests.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">8. Milwaukee Bucks (21-17)</a></h3><p>Previous: 10</p><p>The Bucks have found their scoring touch. Three of Milwaukee's rotation players have been shooting above 40% from deep since Dec. 1: Gary Trent Jr. (42.5%), A.J. Green (44.3%), and Taurean Prince (45.7%)</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">9. Dallas Mavericks (22-18)</a></h3><p>Previous: 7</p><p>Dallas shot just 44.4% in the five games they were without both Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic this month. That was the NBA's ninth-worst percentage over that stretch. Before then, the Mavs were fifth with a 48.2% mark. At least Irving's back now.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">10. Orlando Magic (23-18)</a></h3><p>Previous: 8</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765366/cropped_GettyImages-2193067661.jpg?ts=1736890344" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765366/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193067661.jpg?ts=1736890344 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765366/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193067661.jpg?ts=1736890344 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765366/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193067661.jpg?ts=1736890344 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765366/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193067661.jpg?ts=1736890344 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765366/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193067661.jpg?ts=1736890344 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gary Bassing / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Paulo Banchero showed no signs of rust Friday against the Bucks in his return from a 33-game absence due to a torn oblique, scoring 34 points on 5-of-8 shooting from deep. Do you believe in Magic?</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">11. Los Angeles Clippers (21-17)</a></h3><p>Previous: 11</p><p>Kawhi Leonard is back. So, too, is Terance Mann. The returns immediately give Ty Lue's roster much-needed depth. Since Dec. 21, the Clippers <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/teams/advanced?DateFrom=12/21/2024&amp;DateTo=01/05/2025&amp;Season=2024-25&amp;SeasonType=Regular%20Season&amp;StarterBench=Bench&amp;dir=D&amp;sort=NET_RATING">bench</a> has been tied for the seventh-worst in the league with a minus-2.1<strong> </strong>net rating.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">12. Indiana Pacers (22-19)</a></h3><p>Previous: 20</p><p>Tyrese Haliburton's troublesome hamstring issue couldn't have resurfaced at a worse time. The Pacers guard averaged 24.8 points and 10.8 assists while shooting 48.7% from distance in five straight Pacers wins before his early exit Sunday.</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">13. Sacramento Kings (20-20)</a></h3><p>Previous: 25</p><p>Doug Christie seems to be the key to Sacramento's success. Since the interim coach took over, the Kings have gone 7-1 and are on a seven-game win streak, including impressive wins over the Grizzlies and Celtics.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">14. Miami Heat (20-18)</a></h3><p>Previous: 16</p><p>The Heat continue to find ways to win. Even with Jimmy Butler halfway out the door, Tyler Herro has blossomed into an All-Star-caliber player. The 24-year-old is averaging a career-high 24<strong> </strong>points on 46.9% shooting.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">15. Detroit Pistons (21-19)</a></h3><p>Previous: 21</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765363/cropped_GettyImages-2193795388.jpg?ts=1736890119" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765363/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193795388.jpg?ts=1736890119 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765363/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193795388.jpg?ts=1736890119 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765363/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193795388.jpg?ts=1736890119 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765363/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193795388.jpg?ts=1736890119 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765363/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193795388.jpg?ts=1736890119 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dustin Satloff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The rebuild may finally be over in Detroit. The Pistons are sitting at 21-19 through 40 games, whereas they were at 3-36 last season. This is their first time being .500 or better after Jan. 1 since 2019.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">16. Minnesota Timberwolves (21-18)</a></h3><p>Previous: 14</p><p>Monday's win over the Wizards meant the Timberwolves wouldn't alternate between three-game streaks of wins and losses for the first time since mid-December. That's obscure, sure, but it's an indicator of Minnesota's consistently inconsistent play this season.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">17. Los Angeles Lakers (20-17)</a></h3><p>Previous: 9</p><p>The Lakers have been relatively mediocre this campaign but can always rely on Anthony Davis and LeBron James. At 40 years old, LeBron recently erupted for 68 points over two games, leading L.A. to consecutive wins on a back-to-back.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">18. Atlanta Hawks (20-19)</a></h3><p>Previous: 13</p><p>A New Year's Day loss in Denver started the Hawks' nightmare five-game road trip out West. Atlanta went 1-4 to open 2025, and its minus-13.2 net rating through Monday was only better than the Nets' and Wizards'.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">19. San Antonio Spurs (19-19)</a></h3><p>Previous: 17</p><p>San Antonio desperately needs a boost, ranking 18th<strong> </strong>in offensive rating. A player like Zach LaVine could be nice to pair with Victor Wembanyama to challenge for the Spurs' first playoff berth since 2019.</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">20. Phoenix Suns (19-20)</a></h3><p>Previous: 20</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765367/cropped_GettyImages-2191625388.jpg?ts=1736890528" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765367/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191625388.jpg?ts=1736890528 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765367/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191625388.jpg?ts=1736890528 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765367/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191625388.jpg?ts=1736890528 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765367/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191625388.jpg?ts=1736890528 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765367/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191625388.jpg?ts=1736890528 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Coduto / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Phoenix is reportedly looking to part ways with Jusuf Nurkic and is interested in Hornets big man Nick Richards. Adding the 27-year-old center would give the league's ninth-worst defense some much-needed rim protection.</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">21. Golden State Warriors (19-20)</a></h3><p>Previous: 15</p><p>Steve Kerr blamed himself Monday after the Warriors fell below .500 for the first time this season. Overly self-critical or not, Golden State will need to answer some tough questions if a trade-deadline addition can't save its campaign.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">22. Chicago Bulls (18-22)</a></h3><p>Previous: 22</p><p>Perpetual mediocrity plagues this Bulls team, but at least LaVine is enjoying an All-Star-caliber campaign with career highs in field goal (52%) and three-point percentage (44%). The trade deadline beckons for Arturas Karnisovas.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">23. Philadelphia 76ers (15-23)</a></h3><p>Previous: 19</p><p>Perhaps being the third option on a Joel Embiid-led team is draining. Paul George is having his worst year since his sophomore season in 2011-12, averaging 16.8<strong> </strong>points and 4.7<strong> </strong>assists while shooting 42.1% from the field.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">24. Portland Trail Blazers (13-26)</a></h3><p>Previous: 23</p><p>Signing Jerami Grant has been a disaster for Portland. Grant averages just 15<strong> </strong>points on 38.2/38.2/82 shooting splits and is a team-low minus-9.3 per 100 possessions, arguably hindering the development of the Blazers' young guards.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">25. Brooklyn Nets (14-26)</a></h3><p>Previous: 24</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765368/cropped_GettyImages-2192203249.jpg?ts=1736890584" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765368/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192203249.jpg?ts=1736890584 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765368/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192203249.jpg?ts=1736890584 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765368/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192203249.jpg?ts=1736890584 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765368/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192203249.jpg?ts=1736890584 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765368/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192203249.jpg?ts=1736890584 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stacy Revere / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The tanks are back in Brooklyn. Since trading Dennis Schroder to the Warriors, the Nets have lost 11<strong> </strong>of their 15<strong> </strong>contests in hopes of landing their next star in June's draft.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">26. Utah Jazz (10-28)</a></h3><p>Previous: 26</p><p>Despite blowing a 13-point fourth-quarter lead, the Jazz snapped a nine-game home losing skid against the Nets to improve their record at the Delta Center to 3-14, the worst mark in the Association. Is that good?</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">27. Charlotte Hornets (8-28)</a></h3><p>Previous: 27</p><p>Charlotte needs to rein in LaMelo a bit. While the youngest Ball brother has impressive counting stats, he also owns the sixth-highest usage in NBA history (38.3). Meanwhile, the Hornets possess the league's second-worst offensive rating (107.2).</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">28. New Orleans Pelicans (9-32)</a></h3><p>Previous: 30</p><p>The Pelicans just can't figure things out, as they sit 29th in the NBA. Zion Williamson's suspension for being late to team activities quickly overshadowed his recent return to action.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">29. Toronto Raptors (9-31)</a></h3><p>Previous: 29</p><p>The Raptors aren't very good, even when the team's starting lineup is healthy. The five-player unit has a<strong> </strong>net rating of minus-21.8 over 132<strong> </strong>possessions played. Toronto needs this crew to show something positive.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">30. Washington Wizards (6-32)</a></h3><p><em>Previous: 28</em></p><p>It's not all doom and gloom in D.C. Sure, the Wizards have lost every game but one<strong> </strong>in the new year, but Alex Sarr has begun to find his footing after a rough start. Washington also has nine picks in the next two drafts.</p>

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NBA Power Rankings: Sizing up field midway through season

<p><em>Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and contentious debates in the NHL and beyond.</em></p><p><em>Subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thescore">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4uKsxIahXBXkpuvYHeP9Jz?si=5c270e0ec3b0405e">Spotify</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/top-shelf/id1784581959">Apple</a>. Episodes drop every Tuesday.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uvQGKdUtL5w?si=MAc9PURElWeYEZa_" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Hosts Aidan Thakkar, Levi Smith, Kyle Cushman, and John Matisz cover a wide range of topics in this week's episode, including:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Eastern Conference's insane playoff race (00:00)</li>
<li>Bruins' playoff streak on shaky ground (02:45)</li>
<li>Will Mitch Marner test free agency? (06:56)</li>
<li>Flames have key decision to make (12:35)</li>
<li>Rasmus Andersson to Dallas: Who says no? (14:17)</li>
<li>Brock Nelson to Toronto: Who says no? (19:17)</li>
<li>2025 draft midseason top-five picks (22:39)</li>
<li>4 Nations Face-Off rosters watch (25:24)</li>
<li>Trivia! Forgotten jersey numbers (33:02)</li>
</ul><p><strong>Skyscanner | Score Top Shelf Travel Deals</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/yowa/cheap-flights-to-ottawa?irclickid=_vynocdvytgkfay2wudy93k31v3220z3zst30ru6w00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep6Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1736881797140&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Ottawa</a></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/yyc/cheap-flights-to-calgary?irclickid=_vynocdvytgkfay2wudy93k31v3220z3zcl30ru6w00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep6Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1736881859381&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to Calgary</a></p>

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Top Shelf: East playoff battles, mock Nelson trades, draft top 5, and more

The 2025 Hall of Fame election announcement will take place Jan. 21. Before we receive the offici...

<p>The 2025 Hall of Fame election announcement will take place Jan. 21. Before we receive the official results, we're asking you to cast your own ballot.</p><p>We'll follow BBWAA rules, and you can submit one ballot with up to 10 selections. You may also submit a blank ballot. We'll unveil theScore's selections and the results of the user vote on Jan. 20.</p><p>Here's the full list of eligible players.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><em>Note: The ballot below is available on iOS only. Android users can vote by clicking <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/3YJjcBdZqG">here</a>. You may need to scroll down on the right side of the ballot (not the article itself) to see the complete list and submit.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="400px" height="800px" src="https://forms.office.com/r/3YJjcBdZqG?embed=true" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" style="border: none; max-width:100%; max-height:100vh" allowfullscreen="" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen=""> </iframe></figure>

COOPERSTOWN, NY - JULY 28: A general view of the stage set up during the Hall of Fame media availability at the Clark Sports Center on July 28, 2018 in Cooperstown, New York.

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Cast your own 2025 Baseball HOF ballot

With the schedule at the halfway point, theScore's NBA editors answer some of the biggest questio...

<p><em>With the schedule at the halfway point, theScore's NBA editors answer some of the biggest questions around the league.</em></p><h3>Which team is set for a big second half?</h3><p><strong>Los Angeles Clippers: </strong>The Clippers are firmly in the mix for a top-six seed despite not having Kawhi Leonard for most of the season. Head coach Ty Lue has leaned on his defense to compensate for a lack of firepower: Los Angeles ranks third in steals (9.7 per contest), third in points off turnovers (20), fourth in defensive rating (108.9 points per 100 possessions), and fifth in opponent 3-point percentage (34.6%). Leonard's return gives the defense another weapon and provides some much-needed help to the club's mediocre half-court offense, which has primarily depended upon James Harden and Norman Powell. Assuming Leonard stays healthy, the Clippers have an opportunity to make up some ground. <em>- Chicco Nacion</em></p><p><strong>Indiana Pacers:</strong><em> </em>Winners of 12 of their last 15 contests, the Pacers are rounding back into their Eastern Conference finals form. Pascal Siakam, Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, and Myles Turner are averaging 15 or more points per game, and Indiana is getting double-digit scoring from seven players. The Pacers' offense has improved over this hot stretch, ranking third in offensive rating (117.8), assists per game (30.3) and true shooting percentage (59.4). Haliburton is playing at his All-Star level, averaging 18.1 points and nearly 10<strong> </strong>assists per game while shooting 40.5% from deep during the turnaround. Even with their early-season struggles, the Pacers are just one win from passing the Orlando Magic for fifth in the East. - <em>Donald Higney</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Sacramento Kings:</strong> Firing Mike Brown on Dec. 27 seems to have given the Kings the shot in the arm they desperately needed. Since parting ways with Brown, Sacramento is an impressive 7-1 and has the league's fifth-best defensive rating (109.7). Interim head coach Doug Christie has leaned into Keon Ellis' perimeter defense since taking charge of the team - the Alabama product has played 33 minutes or more in three of the eight outings with Christie behind the bench, all of which were wins. Ellis surpassed 33 minutes in a game just once in his 29 contests under Brown. <em>- Thomas Tittley</em></p><h3>Which role player having a great season is flying under the radar?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764921/cropped_GettyImages-2193313586.jpg?ts=1736689894" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764921/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193313586.jpg?ts=1736689894 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764921/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193313586.jpg?ts=1736689894 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764921/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193313586.jpg?ts=1736689894 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764921/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193313586.jpg?ts=1736689894 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764921/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193313586.jpg?ts=1736689894 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Malik Beasley: </strong>The 28-year-old has bounced around the league over the last four years, but it seems he found a home with the Detroit Pistons. Beasley is averaging 16.3 points - five more than last season and his highest total since the 2020-21 campaign. On top of that, he's averaging 3.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists, all on 42.3% shooting. He appeared in just 37 out of 82 games that year, and he's already surpassed that total this season. The Florida State product is also making a career-high 3.7 3-pointers per contest while maintaining a 39.6% shooting average from beyond the arc. And Beasley's 23.1% usage rate represents the second-highest of his career. <em>- Joseph Luca Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Scotty Pippen Jr.: </strong>When the Grizzlies signed Pippen to a two-way contract last January, it didn't attract much attention. He spent most of his first two pro campaigns in the G League and played only 32 minutes in six appearances for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Pippen got extended playing time down the stretch in 2023-24 with Memphis' roster decimated by injuries, and his strong play earned him a standard four-year contract. The 24-year-old has held a key role in Taylor Jenkins' rotation this season, averaging 10.5 points, 4.8 assists, 3.4 boards, and 1.2 steals across 39 appearances. The Vanderbilt product has provided playmaking, floor-spacing, and defensive intensity, and his steady play at the point has been especially important with Ja Morant sidelined. <em>- Nacion</em></p><p><strong>Josh Hart:</strong><em> </em>Hart is quietly having a career year for the New York Knicks. The versatile wing's average of 14.4 points represents his highest total since the 2021-22 campaign, and he's posting career-high averages in rebounds (9.3), assists (5.5), and steals (1.5). His 361 total rebounds on the season rank higher than players like Victor Wembanyama, Evan Mobley, and LeBron James. With his consistent stat-stuffing performances, Hart is tied for fifth with Giannis Antetokounmpo in triple-doubles with four - two of which came in back-to-back wins over the Wizards and Jazz. The 29-year-old has proven integral to New York's success courtesy of high-energy play and versatility on both ends of the court. - <em>Higney</em></p><h3>Who will be the next coach to get fired?</h3><p><strong>Willie Green</strong>: In Green's fourth year in New Orleans, the Pelicans sit last in the West with an 8-32 record, All-Defensive wing Herb Jones is out for the season, and Zion Williamson - who has only appeared in eight games due to injury - was recently suspended for being late for a flight and multiple team practices. Putting all the organization's eggs in Williamson's basket hasn't worked to this point, and trading for Dejounte Murray hasn't panned out. It seems likely that David Griffin and his front office might axe the 43-year-old head coach in a last-ditch attempt to save their jobs. <em>- Tittley</em></p><p><strong>Steve Kerr:</strong> Kerr began his Warriors tenure by leading the team to four rings in his first 10 campaigns, but the success has waned as the core ages. The team missed the playoffs last season and currently sits at .500,<strong> </strong>going 7-16 in its last 23 outings after beginning the season 12-3. Golden State lacks an offensive punch beyond 36-year-old Stephen Curry - no other player averages over 20 points. Kerr has also struggled to develop Jonathan Kuminga, bouncing him in and out of the starting five multiple times this campaign. With the win-now window rapidly closing as Curry's influence diminishes, the Warriors need a spark - and they're running out of time to find one. <em>- Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Chauncey Billups:</strong> Portland's virtually in the same place as it was when the team hired Billups four years ago. The Trail Blazers won no more than 31 games with Damian Lillard on the roster and have consistently been among the NBA's worst defensive teams under Billups' watch. First-round draft picks Scoot Henderson and Kris Murray haven't developed as much as desired. What's more, the team's had its share of lackluster efforts this season, including a pair of 40-point losses at home. That's unacceptable, even for a rebuilding club. Billups had more than enough time to turn things around. It'd be in the franchise's best interest to move on. <em>- Nacion</em></p><h3>How can the league improve declining ratings?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764922/cropped_GettyImages-2182664782.jpg?ts=1736689999" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764922/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182664782.jpg?ts=1736689999 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764922/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182664782.jpg?ts=1736689999 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764922/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182664782.jpg?ts=1736689999 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764922/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182664782.jpg?ts=1736689999 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764922/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182664782.jpg?ts=1736689999 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Shorten the season: </strong>Considered a more radical idea, cutting down the NBA's 82-game slate could increase the league's viewership. The hope would be that fewer contests would limit back-to-backs and extended runs of games, keeping stars in the lineup for home and road fans, as well as maintaining marquee matchups full of top-level talent. Reducing the number of games would increase the importance of every regular-season showing; there would be less time for teams to treat it as a ramp-up period for the playoffs. Despite problems like decreased stadium revenue, shortening the season would ensure elite players stay in games, increasing visibility. - <em>Higney</em></p><p><strong>End the 3-point shooting debate: </strong>A large, vocal portion of social media users - and some mainstream critics - have erroneously claimed that there's no variety in the league and that teams just jack 3-pointers. Are 3-pointers up? Yes. Do all teams play the same way? Absolutely not. Shotmaking, ball-handling, and passing are at all-time highs. If you're repeatedly being told from every angle that something is bad, you're going to give up on it. Go back 10 years and try to watch a random NBA game. The quality of play today is way more entertaining. <em>- Tittley</em></p><p><strong>Stop relying on old stars: </strong>The players of tomorrow are not the same as the ones of yesterday. LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, to name a few, are all nearing retirement. In their place, young players need to be properly showcased to keep fans intrigued. One way to do that would be to feature teams loaded with young talent like the Thunder, Magic, and Pistons on marquee days in favorable time slots and on national broadcasts<em>.<strong> </strong></em>Victor Wembanyama can't be the only young superstar carrying the league into the next era.<em> - Casciaro</em></p>

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Roundball Roundtable: Clippers, Pacers poised for big 2nd half

This is the seventh in-season edition of theScore's NHL Power Rankings for the 2024-25 campaign. ...

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NHL Power Rankings: Every team's midseason MVP

<p><em>Top Shelf, theScore's flagship hockey show, takes a weekly deep dive into the hottest topics and contentious debates in the NHL and beyond.</em></p><p><em>Subscribe to the show on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@thescore">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4uKsxIahXBXkpuvYHeP9Jz?si=5c270e0ec3b0405e">Spotify</a>, and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/top-shelf/id1784581959">Apple</a>.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DomocZO_uds?si=EFTKWMuwDN5E6dOE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Hosts Aidan Thakkar, Levi Smith, Kyle Cushman, and John Matisz talk midseason awards and All-Stars in this special Thursday episode, including:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Nobody's missing the All-Star Game (00:00)</li>
<li>Hart Trophy picks at midway point (02:45)</li>
<li>Norris Trophy: Makar or Hughes? (08:05)</li>
<li>Calder Trophy: Celebrini or Hutson? (12:00)</li>
<li>Picking fake divisional All-Star teams (17:13)</li>
<li>Trivia! Award winners of last 25 years (33:40)</li>
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Top Shelf: MacKinnon for MVP? Celebrini for Calder? Midseason awards special

The NFL playoffs start this weekend, with wild-card action kicking off Saturday. Our football edi...

<p><em>The NFL playoffs start this weekend, with wild-card action kicking off Saturday. Our football editors offer their predictions for every round of the postseason through Super Bowl LIX.</em></p><p><strong>AFC wild-card round</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - AFC WC" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-IYTNX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/IYTNX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="494" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Our editors see the AFC's wild-card round almost identically, with the exception of one Steelers win over the Ravens. That one pick is a bit of a surprise considering how those clubs have looked lately, but the Bills sweeping the Broncos isn't a shocker. Neither is the Chargers downing the Texans given Houston's recent issues.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>NFC wild-card round</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - NFC WC" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-44iuS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/44iuS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="494" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The Eagles' status as an NFC juggernaut remains solidified among our crew, but the Packers are likely to keep that contest close. The other two NFC wild-card games are significantly more intriguing. The Commanders, Buccaneers, Rams, and Vikings each received at least four picks.</p><p><strong>AFC divisional round</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - AFC Div." aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-H8bh1" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/H8bh1/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="483" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>One of the Chiefs and Chargers will appear in each of our AFC championship picks thanks to the AFC West foes matching up in almost all of our divisional-round predictions. Kansas City is the more popular choice, but don't sleep on Jim Harbaugh's squad. Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen seem poised to duel in one of the postseason's best matchups in the conference's second contest of this round, with the Ravens holding a narrow lead over the Bills in win selections.</p><p><strong>NFC divisional round</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - NFC Div." aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-p1uwp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/p1uwp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="483" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Rejoice Lions fans: Detroit appears destined to host the NFC Championship Game for the first time in team history after a clean sweep over four potential opponents. The Eagles are also unsurprisingly a prominent pick, though the Rams earned a conference championship appearance with a lone win over the Buccaneers.</p><p><strong>AFC Championship Game</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - AFC CC" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iiz8j" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iiz8j/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="528" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Death, taxes, and Patrick Mahomes' Chiefs appearing in the AFC championship: Kansas City has made the conference title game every season since Mahomes took over as the starting quarterback, and that trend continues in the majority of our predictions. However, most of our editors see them falling short of another Super Bowl berth. The Ravens are our favorite to represent the AFC in Super Bowl LIX, with the Bills a close second.</p><p><strong>NFC Championship Game</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - NFC CC" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-fko36" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/fko36/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="528" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Not only have the Lions never hosted the NFC championship, but they've also never won a conference title. That changes according to most of our editors' selections. Don't count out the Eagles to make their second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons.</p><p><strong>Super Bowl LIX</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2024 Playoff Predictions - Super Bowl LIX" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XXe4m" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XXe4m/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="526" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Our Super Bowl forecasts see two picks for the Chiefs, three selections each for the Bills and Lions, and four Ravens predictions. None of our choices are shocking, with each team ranking among the NFL's most impressive this season. A Super Bowl LIX victory would represent the first Lombardi Trophy in franchise history for the Lions and Bills, a third for the Ravens, and the Chiefs' fifth.</p>

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