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MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 20: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan reacts after an out in the third inning against Team Mexico during the World Baseball Classic Semifinals at loanDepot park on March 20, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 08: Antonin Kinsky of Tottenham Hotspur applauds the supporters during the Carabao Cup Semi Final First Leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on January 08, 2025 in London, England.

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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>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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<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>
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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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<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>
</ul><p><strong>Skyscanner | Score Top Shelf Travel Deals</strong></p><p><a href="http://skyscanner.pxf.io/nX4RW6?sharedid=Ep5Article">Flights to Denver</a></p><p><a href="http://skyscanner.pxf.io/JKk25v?sharedid=Ep5Article">Flights to New York</a></p>

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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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NFL playoff predictions: Who will win Super Bowl LIX?

<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/ZtfHIssQJeg?si=JJCW_YpE9dXk6b9t" 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, and John Matisz, along with special guest Josh Wegman, cover a wide range of topics in this week's episode, including:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>USA Hockey closing in on Hockey Canada (00:00)</li>
<li>Should more teams retool like the Capitals? (02:18)</li>
<li>Importance of Maple Leafs earning top seed (06:32)</li>
<li>Potential Canucks trades: Who says no? (11:55)</li>
<li>Coaches dissect the modern power play (20:50)</li>
<li>Landing spots for free agent Jonathan Toews (26:05)</li>
<li>KHLer drops phone onto ice during play (31:10)</li>
<li>Trivia! Objects thrown onto NHL ice surfaces (33:15)</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=_vynocdvytgkfay2wudy93k31v32xafuiajyq0z0r00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep3Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1735672570918&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to </a><a href="http://skyscanner.pxf.io/qzWxGb?sharedid=Ep4Article">Vancouver</a></p><p><a href="https://www.skyscanner.ca/flights-to/ytoa/cheap-flights-to-toronto.html?irclickid=_vynocdvytgkfay2wudy93k31v32xafuszyyq0z0r00&amp;associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=5933861-theScore&amp;utm_campaign=Ep3Article&amp;campaign_id=5933861&amp;utm_content=Online%20Tracking%20Link&amp;adid=1027991&amp;click_timestamp=1735672601820&amp;irmweb=&amp;irgwc=1">Flights to </a><a href="http://skyscanner.pxf.io/e1nE51?sharedid=Ep4Article">Washington</a></p>

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Top Shelf: Potential Canucks trades, Toews landing spots, and more

With the 2024 NFL season coming to a close, many of the league's best players and coaches put tog...

<p>With the 2024 NFL season coming to a close, many of the league's best players and coaches put together closing arguments in their cases to claim the top individual awards.</p><p>Here's a look at the best five candidates for the main honors.</p><h3>Coach of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Mike Tomlin, Steelers</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Steelers ended their season on a low note, losing their final four games. But let's not forget what Tomlin did to help Pittsburgh overachieve and reach double-digit wins. His decision to turn to Russell Wilson over Justin Fields midway through the season was controversial but ultimately wise, as Wilson started his Steelers tenure with a 6-1 record and helped get the team to the playoffs.</p><p><strong>4. Jim Harbaugh, Chargers</strong></p><p>Harbaugh's first regular season back in the NFL couldn't have gone much better, as he helped the Chargers reach the postseason as the 5-seed after they won just five games in 2023. Harbaugh's staff had a major impact on both sides of the ball, helping Justin Herbert get back to his best and building a top-10 defensive unit.</p><p><strong>3. Dan Quinn, Commanders</strong></p><p>It felt like the Commanders were years away from contending when they hired Quinn as head coach and drafted quarterback Jayden Daniels during the 2024 offseason. Less than a year later, Washington is headed to the playoffs with a 12-5 record, a major improvement from the club's 4-13 mark in 2023.</p><p><strong>2. Dan Campbell, Lions</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763887/cropped_GettyImages-2186683266.jpg?ts=1736135953" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763887/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186683266.jpg?ts=1736135953 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763887/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186683266.jpg?ts=1736135953 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763887/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186683266.jpg?ts=1736135953 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763887/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186683266.jpg?ts=1736135953 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763887/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186683266.jpg?ts=1736135953 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Lyons / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Detroit won the NFC North with a 12-5 record in 2023, but somehow Campbell's outfit was even better this season. Despite several injuries to starters, the 15-2 Lions enjoyed their best-ever regular season and secured the NFC's 1-seed. The Lions once again enter the playoffs as a top contender, and Campbell and his staff deserve a ton of credit.</p><p><strong>1. Kevin O'Connell, Vikings</strong></p><p>O'Connell's season has Coach of the Year written all over it. This award often rewards the coach who overachieves the most, and that was certainly the 39-year-old. O'Connell turned the 7-10 team he had in 2023 into a 14-3 powerhouse despite losing Kirk Cousins and starting Sam Darnold at quarterback, which seemed like a major downgrade in the offseason. O'Connell and his staff elevated Minnesota to a new level and helped morph Darnold into a touchdown machine.</p><h3>Defensive Rookie of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Edgerrin Cooper, Packers</strong></p><p>Cooper was everywhere on the field and a great find for the Packers under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. The second-round pick was twice named NFC Defensive Player of the Week and finished the season with 87 tackles (13 for loss), four pass breakups, 3.5 sacks, and one interception.</p><p><strong>4. Chop Robinson, Dolphins</strong></p><p>Robinson didn't get his first sack until November, but the promising edge rusher still piled up six by the end of the campaign to go along with 14 QB hits. He also had 56 pressures - the second most among rookies, according to TruMedia -<strong> </strong>and projects to be a key member of Miami's defense in 2025.</p><p><strong>3. Braden Fiske, Rams</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759945/cropped_GettyImages-2182934068.jpg?ts=1733839872" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759945/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182934068.jpg?ts=1733839872 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759945/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182934068.jpg?ts=1733839872 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759945/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182934068.jpg?ts=1733839872 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759945/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182934068.jpg?ts=1733839872 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759945/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182934068.jpg?ts=1733839872 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Rams traded a pair of second-rounders to move up and draft Fiske 39th overall. They should feel good about that decision. The defensive tackle had 10 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks (most among rookies), and two forced fumbles to help L.A.'s defensive line stay sharp despite Aaron Donald's retirement. With Kobie Turner, Byron Young, Fiske, and another promising defender who's our top rookie on this list, the Rams' future is bright.</p><p><strong>2. Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles</strong></p><p>Elite cornerbacks can go unnoticed in games, often doing such a good job in coverage that opposing QBs avoid throwing their way. That was the case with Mitchell for parts of the Eagles' season. The first-round corner allowed only an 87 passer rating. If not for the lack of game-changing plays (Mitchell finished 2024 with zero takeaways), he would've made an even stronger case as a top DROY candidate.</p><p><strong>1. Jared Verse, Rams</strong></p><p>No rookie defender was better and as consistent as Verse was. The Florida State first-round stud led all rookies with 77 pressures (no other rookie had more than 60) to go along with 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. He was the Rams' most important defensive player, helping the team reach the playoffs despite starting 1-4.</p><h3>Offensive Rookie of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Malik Nabers, Giants</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762686/cropped_GettyImages-2191774440.jpg?ts=1735503207" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762686/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191774440.jpg?ts=1735503207 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762686/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191774440.jpg?ts=1735503207 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762686/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191774440.jpg?ts=1735503207 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762686/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191774440.jpg?ts=1735503207 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762686/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191774440.jpg?ts=1735503207 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It took only one season for Nabers to set a Giants record for receptions in a season with 109. He did so despite missing two games through injury. His 1,204 receiving yards were good enough for seventh among all NFL receivers. Had Nabers not missed time, he likely would have made it a very tough call for the top spot here.</p><p><strong>4. Bo Nix, Broncos</strong></p><p>The No. 12 pick strengthened his case as the year progressed. From Week 8 on, Nix ranked eighth in EPA/dropback, per TruMedia, coming in ahead of Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow, among others. Most significant to Broncos fans, though, is Nix ended the team's eight-year playoff drought. He showed incredible poise for a first-year passer coming to a club that's struggled to find an answer under center since Peyton Manning retired.</p><p><strong>3. Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars</strong></p><p>The top three wideouts in receiving yards this season read like this: Ja'Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Brian Thomas Jr. Two are the best in their respective conferences, while the other is a rookie. That's the kind of company Thomas kept during his first season. With 87 receptions, 1,282 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 14.7 yards per catch, Thomas lit up the field in Duval County.</p><p><strong>2. Brock Bowers, Raiders</strong></p><p>Bowers rewrote the record books in his first taste of NFL action. Not only did he set a Raiders record for receptions in a season, but his 112 grabs were the most by an NFL rookie ever. His 1,194 receiving yards passed Mike Ditka's rookie record of most yards by a tight end, set in 1961. Even more incredible, Bowers was just four catches off tying the TE record for receptions in a season (116 by Zach Ertz in 2018). He ranked 15th all time in receiving yards for his position.</p><p><strong>1. Jayden Daniels, Commanders</strong></p><p>When you stack it all up, no rookie is more deserving of the top spot than Daniels. The No. 2 pick finished top 10 in EPA/dropback, according to TruMedia, already solidifying his place in the NFL. His 891 rushing yards also surpassed former Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III for most by a rookie quarterback ever. What really mattered, though, was his poise, as Daniels appeared NFL-ready from Week 1. His 12 wins as a starter led the Commanders to the postseason for the first time since 2020, while his four game-winning drives were tied for second most, trailing only Mahomes.</p><h3>Defensive Player of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Nik Bonitto, Broncos</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763994/cropped_GettyImages-2189614312.jpg?ts=1736203246" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763994/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189614312.jpg?ts=1736203246 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763994/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189614312.jpg?ts=1736203246 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763994/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189614312.jpg?ts=1736203246 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763994/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189614312.jpg?ts=1736203246 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763994/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189614312.jpg?ts=1736203246 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">AAron Ontiveroz / Denver Post / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bonitto was given an opportunity to make his mark in 2024, and he didn't leave any scraps on the table. The third-year pass-rusher broke out in a big way, as only Trey Hendrickson (17) and Myles Garrett (14) registered more sacks than he did (13.5). He also showcased some flash that can catch voters' attention with two defensive touchdowns, one coming on a pick-6 and the other via a fumble recovery.</p><p><strong>4. Myles Garrett, Browns</strong></p><p>Garrett hasn't been shy in his belief that he's the NFL's best pass-rusher. He built a strong case this season, but it likely won't be enough for the reigning Defensive Player of the Year to win the award again. Garrett finished second in sacks with 14, while his 22 tackles for loss led the NFL. His case is slightly weakened by the Browns' poor record. Overall, it was another terrific year for Garrett, who's now recorded over 10 sacks in seven straight seasons.</p><p><strong>3. Trey Hendrickson, Bengals</strong></p><p>Hendrickson flew under the radar for too long, but his work has finally gotten the appreciation it deserves. No player in the NFL recorded more sacks than the pass-rusher's 17.5. His 83 pressures were tied for the league lead, according to PFF, while his pressure rate ranked in the top three. The Bengals' defense was incredibly poor this season, but Hendrickson was a one-man wrecking crew.</p><p><strong>2. T.J. Watt, Steelers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759990/cropped_GettyImages-2188251434.jpg?ts=1733852758" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759990/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188251434.jpg?ts=1733852758 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759990/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188251434.jpg?ts=1733852758 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759990/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188251434.jpg?ts=1733852758 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759990/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188251434.jpg?ts=1733852758 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759990/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188251434.jpg?ts=1733852758 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Diamond Images / Diamond Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Watt was the overwhelming favorite to win his second DPOY award before ending the season with a whimper. The 30-year-old had 11.5 sacks but recorded just two over his last five games, and both came in one contest. Still, Watt gets recognition for his game-changing ability, which was once again on full display. He led the NFL in forced fumbles with six and was the only player to notch over 10 sacks and five forced fumbles.</p><p><strong>1. Pat Surtain, Broncos</strong></p><p>While the last four Defensive Player of the Year awards have gone to a pass-rusher, the Broncos' star cornerback has done more than enough to bring the honor back to the secondary with a four-interception campaign. Of all corners with at least 600 coverage snaps, Surtain placed first in receptions allowed (37), yards allowed (317), and yards per reception (8.6) and second in passer rating when targeted (61.1), per PFF. His contributions are a key reason why the Broncos finished third in points allowed and returned to the postseason.</p><h3>MVP</h3><p><strong>5. Jared Goff, Lions</strong></p><p>Goff quarterbacked the 15-2 Lions to a historic regular season for the franchise. The veteran ranked in the top four in completion percentage (72.4), passing yards (4,629), and touchdown passes (37) while helping Detroit finish as the NFC's top seed. The 30-year-old enjoyed his best season since entering the NFL as the No. 1 pick in 2016.</p><p><strong>4. Joe Burrow, Bengals</strong></p><p>Burrow led the NFL in completions (460), passing yards (4,918), and touchdowns (43). He may have been this season's best QB. Yet, we can't rank him any higher because the defensively deficient Bengals finished just 9-8 and missed the playoffs.</p><p><strong>3. Saquon Barkley, Eagles</strong></p><p>Any realistic chances Barkley had of winning MVP rested on the star running back breaking the single-season rushing yards record that's stood since 1984. Philadelphia rested its starters in the final week of the regular season, so Barkley fell short. But let's not forget how special his 2024 was. He became only the ninth NFL player to run for over 2,000 yards and led the league in scrimmage yards (2,283) and touches (378). He also scored 15 TDs in 16 games.</p><p><strong>2. Lamar Jackson, Ravens</strong></p><p>Sequels are rarely better, but Jackson followed up his 2023 MVP campaign with arguably an even better performance. Over 4,000 passing yards and 40 touchdowns? Check. The NFL leader in passer rating? Check again. The best EPA/dropback, according to TruMedia? Yes. The two-time MVP had his finest season as a passer while also adding 915 yards on the ground, his most since 2020. This season demonstrated what a peak dual-threat Jackson can do.</p><p><strong>1. Josh Allen, Bills</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761021/cropped_GettyImages-2190269019.jpg?ts=1734404183" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761021/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190269019.jpg?ts=1734404183 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761021/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190269019.jpg?ts=1734404183 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761021/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190269019.jpg?ts=1734404183 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761021/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190269019.jpg?ts=1734404183 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761021/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190269019.jpg?ts=1734404183 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nic Antaya / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Narratives are a major part of the NFL's award ceremony, there's no denying that. Allen powered the Bills to a 13-win campaign despite losing his two leading receivers from last season, with signature victories over the Chiefs and Lions, the No. 1 seed in each conference. His numbers serve as the finishing touch to his case for MVP. For a fifth straight season, Allen combined for 40-plus passing and rushing touchdowns. He flashed his cannon arm (7.7 yards per pass, his highest since 2020) and rushing ability (12 scores), but he also protected the football with a career-low six interceptions.</p>

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NFL award rankings: Final look at race for MVP, rookie honors, more

On the first Tuesday of every month during the 2024-25 season, we'll debate which clubs are among...

<p><em>On the first Tuesday of every month during the 2024-25 season, we'll debate which clubs are among Europe's elite in our Soccer Power Rankings. In our January edition, we're picking out one player each of the continent's top teams should sign during the winter transfer window.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to</strong>:<br><a href="#Arsenal">ARS</a> | <a href="#Atalanta">ATA</a> | <a href="#Bilbao">ATH</a> | <a href="#Atleti">ATM</a> | <a href="#Barca">BAR</a> | <a href="#Chelsea">CHE</a> | <a href="#Bayern">FCB</a> | <a href="#Inter">INT</a> | <a href="#Juve">JUV</a> | <a href="#Leverkusen">LEV</a> | <a href="#Lille">LIL</a> | <a href="#Liverpool">LIV</a> | <a href="#Man%20City">MCI</a> | <a href="#Milan">MIL</a> | <a href="#Napoli">NAP</a> | <a href="#Newcastle">NEW</a> | <a href="#Forest">NFO</a> | <a href="#PSG">PSG</a> | <a href="#RM">RMA</a> | <a href="#Sporting">SCP</a></p><h3>1. <a id="Liverpool" name="Liverpool">Liverpool</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p><em>Previous: 1</em> ⚖️</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761869/cropped_GettyImages-2190461282.jpg?ts=1734900145" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761869/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190461282.jpg?ts=1734900145 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761869/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190461282.jpg?ts=1734900145 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761869/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190461282.jpg?ts=1734900145 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761869/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190461282.jpg?ts=1734900145 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761869/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190461282.jpg?ts=1734900145 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">GLYN KIRK / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Antonee Robinson</strong>. Losing Trent Alexander-Arnold - either this month or in the summer - would be a huge blow. But at least Conor Bradley is a capable replacement. There's no obvious succession plan on the opposite side, where Andy Robertson has become a defensive liability. Robinson, one of Fulham's standout players, would be an ideal fit at left-back.</p><h3>2. <a id="Inter" name="Inter">Inter Milan</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p><em>Previous: 3</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Sam Beukema</strong>. Injuries to Francesco Acerbi and Benjamin Pavard have created a need for defensive reinforcements at Inter, where Yann Bisseck has been forced to play more minutes than expected. Bologna defender Beukema could come in and contribute right away thanks to his familiarity with Serie A, which is always a key consideration for January additions.</p><h3>3. <a id="Atalanta" name="Atalanta">Atalanta</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p><em>Previous: 2</em> 📉</p><p><strong>Rayan Cherki</strong>. Atalanta could benefit from signing a No. 9 to help lighten the load on Mateo Retegui, but Gian Piero Gasperini has a habit of turning forwards who aren't traditional strikers into prolific scorers. Cherki, an attacking midfielder, could thrive under the Italian tactician, and Lyon's delicate financial situation could force them to sell the 21-year-old this month.</p><h3>4. <a id="Atleti" name="Atleti">Atletico Madrid</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p><em>Previous: 10</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Miguel Gutierrez</strong>. Diego Simeone's team is humming right now, and there aren't any obvious deficiencies that desperately need addressing in January. More depth at left-back would be welcome, though. Landing Gutierrez from Girona would be tricky - bitter rivals Real Madrid own 50% of his rights, complicating matters - but worthwhile as Atletico chase a league title.</p><h3>5. <a id="RM" name="RM">Real Madrid</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p><em>Previous: 9</em> 📈</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753439/cropped_GettyImages-2181773378.jpg?ts=1730726802" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753439/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181773378.jpg?ts=1730726802 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753439/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181773378.jpg?ts=1730726802 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753439/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181773378.jpg?ts=1730726802 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753439/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181773378.jpg?ts=1730726802 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753439/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181773378.jpg?ts=1730726802 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Diego Souto / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Trent Alexander-Arnold</strong>. They're trying. Real Madrid's first attempt to acquire the English right-back in January was swiftly rebuffed by Liverpool. A free transfer in the summer remains a <em>far</em> more likely outcome, but Carlo Ancelotti clearly wants Alexander-Arnold right now as the Champions League holders look to replace injured stalwart Dani Carvajal. This saga isn't going away.</p><h3>6. <a id="Arsenal" name="Arsenal">Arsenal</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p><em>Previous: 5</em> 📉</p><p><strong>Bryan Mbeumo</strong>. With star winger Bukayo Saka out long term following hamstring surgery, and breakout teenager Ethan Nwaneri also sidelined, Arsenal need to act this month. Mbeumo is having a sensational season at Brentford and wouldn't come cheap, but he's a great fit as an immediate replacement for Saka, and he could also play with him when he returns.</p><h3>7. <a id="Bayern" name="Bayern">Bayern Munich</a> 🇩🇪</h3><p><em>Previous: 4</em> 📉</p><p><strong>Jonathan David</strong>. Bayern Munich, unsurprisingly, aren't the same attacking force when Harry Kane isn't available. Few others offer the Englishman's combination of elite scoring ability and link-up play, but David, the top marksman in Ligue 1 this season, thrives in both aspects. While Lille appear resigned to losing him in the summer, Bayern could accelerate a transfer.</p><h3>8. <a id="Leverkusen" name="Leverkusen">Bayer Leverkusen</a> 🇩🇪</h3><p><em>Previous: 16</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Diogo Leite</strong>. The best-run clubs plan ahead to ensure they aren't scrambling when key players depart. Bayer Leverkusen will almost certainly lose impending free agent Jonathan Tah this summer. It's a big hole to fill; the imposing center-back has been at the club for a decade. Union Berlin's Leite, linked with Leverkusen in the past, would be a sensible fit.</p><h3>9. <a id="Barca" name="Barca">Barcelona</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p><em>Previous: 7</em> 📉</p><p><strong>Dani Olmo</strong>. That's right. Barcelona's priority in January should be registering their own players before they even think about trying to finagle someone else's. Olmo remains ineligible to play in the second half of the season after Barca's desperate plea to extend his temporary registration beyond Dec. 31 was rejected by La Liga. It's all a big mess of their own making.</p><h3>10. <a id="Napoli" name="Napoli">Napoli</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p><em>Previous: 8</em> 📉</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748361/cropped_GettyImages-2175654261.jpg?ts=1728009305" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748361/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175654261.jpg?ts=1728009305 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748361/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175654261.jpg?ts=1728009305 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748361/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175654261.jpg?ts=1728009305 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748361/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175654261.jpg?ts=1728009305 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748361/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175654261.jpg?ts=1728009305 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mondadori Portfolio / Mondadori Portfolio / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Danilo</strong>. The Brazilian defender is no longer part of Juventus' plans and will move on in January. Now 33, he's not nearly as mobile as he once was at right-back, but he can still be a solid contributor and veteran leader for a title-chasing Napoli side that needs more defensive cover with Alessandro Buongiorno on the shelf. A nominal fee should get the job done here.</p><h3>11. <a id="PSG" name="PSG">Paris Saint-Germain</a> 🇫🇷</h3><p><em>Previous: 12</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Victor Osimhen</strong>. PSG need a central striker. Their top scorers this season are wide forwards (Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembele), while Goncalo Ramos has seen limited action and Randal Kolo Muani is expected to leave in January. Osimhen, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has long been a target for the French giants. Could this finally be the window they bring him aboard?</p><h3>12. <a id="Forest" name="Forest">Nottingham Forest</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p><em>Previous: N/A</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Omar Marmoush</strong>. Chris Wood's renaissance was one of the Premier League's best storylines in 2024. But, at 33, Nottingham Forest can't rest on their laurels and expect him to stay hot forever. Marmoush, who Forest pushed hard to land last summer, is enjoying the best season of his life right now at Eintracht Frankfurt. His signing would be a huge statement of intent.</p><h3>13. <a id="Newcastle" name="Newcastle">Newcastle United</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p><em>Previous: N/A</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Tyler Dibling</strong>. Newcastle should be seeking an upgrade on the right wing this month. Jacob Murphy is a serviceable player, but to keep making serious progress, the Magpies need to balance out an attack that relies heavily on the left side. Dibling is a rising star who won't be available much longer, with Southampton likely to be relegated at season's end. The time to act is now.</p><h3>14. <a id="Chelsea" name="Chelsea">Chelsea</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p><em>Previous: 6</em> 📉</p><p><strong>Viktor Gyokeres</strong>. Nicolas Jackson is scoring at a decent clip for Chelsea and could yet establish himself as the club's long-term No. 9. No matter how many goals he seems to deliver, though, links with other strikers persist. After 62 tallies for club and country in 2024, Gyokeres is at the top of the list. His transfer from Sporting CP to one of Europe's biggest clubs is imminent.</p><h3>15. <a id="Man City" name="Man%20City">Manchester City</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><p><em>Previous: 11</em> 📉</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762488/cropped_GettyImages-2190913720.jpg?ts=1735398263" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762488/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190913720.jpg?ts=1735398263 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762488/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190913720.jpg?ts=1735398263 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762488/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190913720.jpg?ts=1735398263 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762488/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190913720.jpg?ts=1735398263 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762488/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190913720.jpg?ts=1735398263 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Martin Zubimendi</strong>. Sometimes the most obvious answer is the correct one. Manchester City are showing some signs of life again after their abysmal run to close out 2024, but Pep Guardiola's team can't operate at its best without someone providing midfield control. Nobody can truly replace the injured Rodri, but Real Sociedad's Zubimendi is the best surrogate out there.</p><h3>16. <a id="Bilbao" name="Bilbao">Athletic Bilbao</a> 🇪🇸</h3><p><em>Previous: N/A</em> 📈</p><p><strong>Borja Sainz</strong>. Athletic Club, unbeaten since October, strictly adhere to a well-known policy of only fielding players with direct ties to the Basque Country. That makes transfers tricky, but one of their own could fill a need for a team lacking some punch up front. Norwich City's Sainz, who spent five years in the Athletic academy, is the top scorer in the Championship this season.</p><h3>17. <a id="Milan" name="Milan">AC Milan</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p><em>Previous: 17</em> ⚖️</p><p><strong>Samuele Ricci</strong>. Milan have <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1876247354430607578">reportedly</a> made "concrete progress" to sign the ascendant Italian midfielder in June. But they shouldn't wait that long. Ricci, 23, is also being eyed by Manchester City. The only way for Milan to ensure the Premier League champions don't have a chance to blow Torino's socks off with a massive offer this summer is to secure his signature this month.</p><h3>18. <a id="Sporting" name="Sporting">Sporting CP</a> 🇵🇹</h3><p><em>Previous: 14</em> 📉</p><p><strong>Christantus Uche</strong>. Sporting signed Conrad Harder last year, in part, to prepare for the eventual departure of Gyokeres. But replacing the Swede's output can't be a one-person job. That's why Sporting should move for Uche, the versatile Getafe forward who, at 21, fits the club's philosophy of scooping up young players with major resale potential.</p><h3>19. <a id="Lille" name="Lille">Lille</a> 🇫🇷</h3><p><em>Previous: 19</em> ⚖️</p><p><strong>Youssoufa Moukoko</strong>. Lille wanted to sign Moukoko last summer, but he eventually ended up at Ligue 1 peers Nice on loan. His playing time in the French Riviera has dwindled as the season has progressed, though, opening up the possibility that Borussia Dortmund could cut his loan spell short and seek another solution for the 20-year-old forward.</p><h3>20. <a id="Juve" name="Juve">Juventus</a> 🇮🇹</h3><p><em>Previous: 18</em> 📉</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757469/cropped_GettyImages-2186793056.jpg?ts=1732661833" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757469/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186793056.jpg?ts=1732661833 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757469/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186793056.jpg?ts=1732661833 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757469/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186793056.jpg?ts=1732661833 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757469/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186793056.jpg?ts=1732661833 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757469/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186793056.jpg?ts=1732661833 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Marco Luzzani / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Antonio Silva</strong>. Some cover for Dusan Vlahovic would also be nice in January, but the club's top priority is help in central defense. The absence of Gleison Bremer, out for the season with a torn ACL, is painfully felt every game. Infamous agent Jorge Mendes is putting public pressure on Benfica to sell the promising Portuguese defender to the Italian club.</p><p><strong>Dropped out</strong>: Fiorentina, Borussia Dortmund, Eintracht Frankfurt<br><strong>On the cusp</strong>: Marseille, Benfica, PSV, Lazio</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29732280/related

Soccer Power Rankings: 1 signing each team should make in January

The latest   Titans reportedly hiring Borgonzi as GM (Read more)  Ravens' Todd Monken says timing...

<h3>The latest</h3><ul>
<li>Titans reportedly hiring Borgonzi as GM (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3193056" href="https://thescore.com/news/3193056">Read more</a>)</li>
<li>Ravens' Todd Monken says timing of coaching interviews 'unfortunate' (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3192176" href="https://thescore.com/news/3192176">Read more</a>)</li>
<li>NFL return not on Bill Belichick's radar (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3191640" href="https://thescore.com/news/3191640">Read More</a>)</li>
</ul><h3>Head coach openings</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Fired</th>
<th>Hired</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Chicago Bears</td>
<td>Matt Eberflus</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dallas Cowboys</td>
<td>Mike McCarthy</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jacksonville Jaguars</td>
<td>Doug Pederson</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Las Vegas Raiders</td>
<td>Antonio Pierce</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New England Patriots</td>
<td>Jerod Mayo</td>
<td>Mike Vrabel</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New Orleans Saints</td>
<td>Dennis Allen</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New York Jets</td>
<td>Robert Saleh</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>General manager openings</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Fired</th>
<th>Hired</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>New York Jets</td>
<td>Joe Douglas</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee Titans</td>
<td>Ran Carthon</td>
<td> Mike Borgonzi</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Las Vegas Raiders</td>
<td>Tom Telesco</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Interviews</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Chicago Bears" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5QDlI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5QDlI/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ben Johnson</td>
<td>Lions OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pete Carroll</td>
<td>Ex-Seahawks HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike McCarthy</td>
<td>Ex-Cowboys HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matt Campbell</td>
<td>Iowa State HC</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Todd Monken</td>
<td>Ravens OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Glenn</td>
<td>Lions DC</td>
<td>Interviewed </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Petzing</td>
<td>Cardinals OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Flores</td>
<td>Vikings DC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Weaver</td>
<td> Dolphins DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Kafka</td>
<td> Giants OC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Shaw</td>
<td>Broncos sr. personnel executive</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Vrabel</td>
<td>Ex-Titans HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joe Brady</td>
<td>Bills OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kliff Kingsbury</td>
<td>Commanders OC</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ron Rivera</td>
<td>Ex-Commanders HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Marcus Freeman</td>
<td>Notre Dame HC</td>
<td>Interested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thomas Brown</td>
<td>Bears interim HC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adam Stenavich</td>
<td> Packers OC</td>
<td> Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arthur Smith</td>
<td> Steelers OC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Dallas Cowboys" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pvi69" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pvi69/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Deion Sanders</td>
<td>Colorado HC</td>
<td>Rumored</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Saleh</td>
<td>Ex-Jets HC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Leslie Frazier</td>
<td>Seahawks assistant HC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kellen Moore</td>
<td>Eagles OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Jacksonville Jaguars" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zIOyd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zIOyd/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Glenn</td>
<td>Lions DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Johnson</td>
<td>Lions OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Liam Coen</td>
<td>Bucs OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kellen Moore</td>
<td> Eagles OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Todd Monken</td>
<td> Ravens OC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joe Brady</td>
<td> Bills OC</td>
<td> Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patrick Graham</td>
<td> Raiders DC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Saleh</td>
<td> Ex-Jets HC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Flores</td>
<td>Vikings DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steve Spagnuolo</td>
<td>Chiefs DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Las Vegas Raiders" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Hmplt" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Hmplt/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ben Johnson</td>
<td>Lions OC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Glenn</td>
<td>Lions DC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steve Spagnuolo</td>
<td> Chiefs DC</td>
<td> Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Todd Monken</td>
<td>Ravens OC</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Saleh</td>
<td>Ex-Jets HC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pete Carroll</td>
<td> Ex-Seahawks HC</td>
<td> Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vance Joseph</td>
<td> Broncos DC</td>
<td> Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ron Rivera</td>
<td>Ex-Commanders HC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>General manager</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jon-Eric Sullivan</td>
<td> Packers VP of player personnel</td>
<td> Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John Spytek</td>
<td> Buccaneers assistant GM</td>
<td> Set for 2nd interview </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sheldon White</td>
<td>Steelers director of pro personnel</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Brown</td>
<td> Giants assistant GM</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chad Alexander</td>
<td>Chargers assistant GM</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New England Patriots" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-6D7Cy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6D7Cy/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Mike Vrabel</strong></td>
<td><strong>Ex-Titans HC</strong></td>
<td><strong>Hired</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ben Johnson</td>
<td>Lions OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Byron Leftwich</td>
<td>Ex-Bucs OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pep Hamilton</td>
<td>Ex-Texans OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Glenn</td>
<td>Lions DC</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New Orleans Saints" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9qXyY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9qXyY/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Joe Brady</td>
<td>Bills OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kellen Moore</td>
<td>Eagles OC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Weaver</td>
<td> Dolphins DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Glenn</td>
<td>Lions DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Kafka</td>
<td> Giants OC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Vrabel</td>
<td>Ex-Titans HC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kliff Kingsbury</td>
<td>Commanders OC</td>
<td>Scheduled</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike McCarthy</td>
<td>Ex-Cowboys HC</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darren Rizzi</td>
<td> Saints interim HC</td>
<td> Interviewed </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New York Jets" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pFrvi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pFrvi/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>Head coach</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Mike Vrabel</td>
<td>Ex-Titans HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ron Rivera</td>
<td>Ex-Commanders HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rex Ryan</td>
<td>ESPN</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeff Ulbrich</td>
<td>Jets interim HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bobby Slowik</td>
<td>Texans OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Flores</td>
<td>Vikings DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arthur Smith</td>
<td>Steelers OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joe Brady</td>
<td>Bills OC</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vance Joseph</td>
<td>Broncos DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matt Nagy</td>
<td>Chiefs OC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Griese</td>
<td>49ers QBs coach</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Josh McCown</td>
<td>Vikings QBs coach</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Glenn</td>
<td>Lions DC</td>
<td>Interviewed </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darren Rizzi</td>
<td> Saints interim HC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steve Spagnuolo</td>
<td> Chiefs DC</td>
<td> Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Locksley</td>
<td>Maryland HC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Joe Whitt Jr.</td>
<td>Commanders DC</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeff Hafley</td>
<td>Packers DC</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>General manager</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Louis Riddick</td>
<td>ESPN</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jim Nagy</td>
<td>Senior Bowl executive director</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jon Robinson</td>
<td>Ex-Titans GM (2016-22)</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thomas Dimitroff</td>
<td>Ex-Falcons GM (2008-20)</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alec Halaby</td>
<td>Eagles assistant GM</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ray Farmer</td>
<td>Rams sr. personnel executive</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Borgonzi</td>
<td>Chiefs assistant GM</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Grigson</td>
<td>Vikings sr. VP of player personnel</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mike Greenberg</td>
<td>Buccaneers assistant GM</td>
<td>Requested</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trey Brown</td>
<td>Bengals sr. personnel executive</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jon-Eric Sullivan</td>
<td>Packers VP of player personnel</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Gaine</td>
<td>Bills assistant GM</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Spielman</td>
<td> Lions special assistant to CEO</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Darren Mougey</td>
<td>Broncos assistant GM</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lance Newmark</td>
<td>Commanders assistant GM</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Tennessee Titans" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-u5s9h" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/u5s9h/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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><strong>General manager</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Candidate</th>
<th>Current job</th>
<th>Status</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Mike Borgonzi</strong></td>
<td><strong>Chiefs assistant GM</strong></td>
<td><strong>Hired</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catherine Hickman</td>
<td>Browns assistant GM</td>
<td>Interviewed </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Terrance Gray</td>
<td> Bills personnel executive</td>
<td>Had 2nd interview</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ed Dodds</td>
<td> Colts assistant GM</td>
<td>Had 2nd interview</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John Spytek</td>
<td>Buccaneers assistant GM</td>
<td>Had 2nd interview</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Reggie McKenzie</td>
<td>Dolphins sr. personnel executive</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thomas Dimitroff</td>
<td>Ex-Falcons GM (2008-20)</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matt Berry</td>
<td>Seahawks personnel executive</td>
<td>Interviewed</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ian Cunningham</td>
<td>Bears assistant GM</td>
<td>Had 2nd interview</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jon-Eric Sullivan</td>
<td>Packers VP of player personnel</td>
<td>Set for 2nd interview</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 24: Ben Johnson offensive coordinator with the Detroit Lions looks on during a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Ford Field on September 24, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29718858/related

NFL coaching carousel tracker

NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   With the regular sea...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p>With the regular season over, we rank all the playoff teams fighting to capture the Lombardi Trophy.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">1. Detroit Lions (15-2)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763972/cropped_GettyImages-2192048241.jpg?ts=1736196835" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763972/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192048241.jpg?ts=1736196835 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763972/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192048241.jpg?ts=1736196835 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763972/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192048241.jpg?ts=1736196835 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763972/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192048241.jpg?ts=1736196835 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763972/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192048241.jpg?ts=1736196835 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Lions enter the playoffs as hot as any team in football after dominating the Vikings to secure the NFC's No. 1 seed and the NFC North crown in the final game of the campaign. Detroit's defense will need to keep finding ways to answer opponents despite being decimated by injuries to reach Super Bowl LIX.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">2. Buffalo Bills (13-4)</a></h3><p>Buffalo won 10 of its 11 matchups between Weeks 6 and 17 before resting its starters in the regular-season finale against New England. The Bills scored 40 points and Josh Allen was responsible for six touchdowns in the team's lone loss over that stretch. No team should be eager to face this squad.</p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">3. Kansas City Chiefs (15-2)</a></h3><p>The Chiefs are no longer the betting favorites to take home the Lombardi Trophy, but no one should count them out - after all, they won 15 games despite some notable struggles. Key starters like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce will enjoy multiple weeks of rest before opening their playoff run in the divisional round.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">4. Baltimore Ravens (12-5)</a></h3><p>Lamar Jackson seems to make plays we've never seen every time he takes the field. The Ravens and Steelers split their two regular-season games, but Baltimore looked significantly better when they squared off in Week 16. Jackson, Derrick Henry and Co. will look to carry that momentum, and the momentum of their four-game win streak, into the third matchup.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">5. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763973/cropped_GettyImages-2190302817.jpg?ts=1736196954" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763973/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190302817.jpg?ts=1736196954 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763973/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190302817.jpg?ts=1736196954 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763973/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190302817.jpg?ts=1736196954 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763973/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190302817.jpg?ts=1736196954 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763973/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190302817.jpg?ts=1736196954 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Emilee Chinn / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Eagles' plus-160 point differential ranks second behind only the Lions (plus-222) this season. Taking down Jordan Love and the Packers won't be easy, but Philly's multitude of weapons and stout defense should give them a chance against every opponent it sees in the playoffs. </p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">6. Minnesota Vikings (14-3)</a></h3><p>There's no time to wallow in self-pity following a deflating loss to the Lions with the NFC North at stake. The Vikings can take out their frustrations as a lower seed in the NFC bracket. Expect Minnesota's defense to add to its league-high 33 takeaways to give Sam Darnold and the offense plenty of opportunities to light up the scoreboard.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">7. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6)</a></h3><p>Jim Harbaugh has led a team to a Super Bowl hosted in New Orleans once, and he's eyeing a repeat performance with the Chargers. The path to victory might favor L.A. - the AFC West club has racked up over 110 rushing yards in each of its three wins to close out the regular-season slate.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">8. Green Bay Packers (11-6)</a></h3><p>Jordan Love appears to have escaped serious harm in Green Bay's final regular-season outing, but Christian Watson is likely out indefinitely. Stumbling into the postseason after back-to-back losses isn't ideal, but this team is just one year removed from pulling off a surprising run to the divisional round.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">9. Los Angeles Rams (10-7)</a></h3><p>Perhaps no team faces a more daunting path to the Super Bowl than the Rams. With veterans Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay in the fold, L.A. boasts plenty of playoff experience to look to for inspiration, which is invaluable for a young roster that's been counted out many times before.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">10. Washington Commanders (12-5)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763974/cropped_GettyImages-2192544626.jpg?ts=1736197035" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763974/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192544626.jpg?ts=1736197035 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763974/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192544626.jpg?ts=1736197035 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763974/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192544626.jpg?ts=1736197035 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763974/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192544626.jpg?ts=1736197035 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763974/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192544626.jpg?ts=1736197035 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With defensive-minded head coach Dan Quinn and an offensive juggernaut powered by rookie passer Jayden Daniels and coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, Washington could very well cause problems if taken lightly this postseason. Momentum is on the Commanders' side, too - they enter the playoffs on a five-game winning streak.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7)</a></h3><p>The Buccaneers are tough to beat when they're firing on all cylinders. Baker Mayfield put together a 41-touchdown season with his arm while rookie running back Bucky Irving has added a jolt to the running game. Mayfield and Co. have proven they have the confidence to hang with postseason-caliber clubs with key wins over the Lions, Eagles, Chargers, and Commanders, who they'll see again this weekend.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">12. Denver Broncos (10-7)</a></h3><p>Denver brought in Sean Payton to reverse its misfortune of consistent disappointment. In his second year as head coach, he did just that: Payton led the Broncos back to the postseason for the first time since 2015. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has gotten into a rhythm while Vance Joseph's defense ranks third in points allowed and features Defensive Player of the Year candidate Patrick Surtain.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">13. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)</a></h3><p>Pittsburgh nosedived into the playoffs after losing its final four regular-season contests. There's not a lot to be optimistic about with Russell Wilson's play seriously regressing over the past month. And, as a reminder, Mike Tomlin is still searching for his first playoff win since the 2016 campaign.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">14. Houston Texans (10-7)</a></h3><p>The Texans opened the campaign 6-2 before losing five of their last nine matchups to close the year. Houston was once a popular pick to be a strong AFC contender but now limps into the playoffs as a lifeless shell of its former self.</p>

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NFL Power Rankings - Playoff Edition

Welcome to our monthly look at the various individual awards in the Association and who merits a ...

<p><em>Welcome to our monthly look at the various individual awards in the Association and who merits a mention for their performances across the season.</em></p><h3>Rookie of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. Zach Edey (Grizzlies): </strong>The 7-foot-4 Canadian has faced some injury troubles this season, but he has been remarkably dominant when healthy. Edey is pouring in 10.9 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game on impressive 59.6% shooting. The big man has also shown an ability to step out beyond the arc, shooting 40.9% from three.</p><p><strong>2. Alex Sarr (Wizards): </strong>After a slow start, the second-overall pick has turned it up a notch. Sarr contributed 13.8 points and 6.3 rebounds on 56.4% true shooting in December. He also improved his 3-point shooting from 24.4% in October and November to 45.5% last month. He is second in rookie scoring (12.1) and leads all first-year players with 1.6 blocks per game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>1. Yves Missi (Pelicans): </strong>New Orleans hasn't had much to rave about this season except the 6-foot-11 Missi. He's leading all rookies in rebounds (8.4), offensive rebounds (3.8), and double-doubles (eight) while posting the eighth-most points per game (9.6). The Belgium-born big has also been an elite rim protector with 1.4 blocks a night.</p><h3>Defensive Player of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. Jaren Jackson Jr. (Grizzlies): </strong>Only 70 players in the NBA <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/players/defense-dash-overall?CF=D_FGA*GE*12:GP*GE*23&amp;dir=A&amp;sort=D_FGM">defend</a> at least 12 shots per game (minimum 23 games played so far). Of those, Jackson boasts the best<strong> </strong>defended field-goal percentage at a strict<strong> </strong>38.8%,<strong> </strong>with just 4.9 field goals made on average against the Grizzlies center.</p><p><strong>2. Dyson Daniels (Hawks): </strong>Daniels' active hands are still making life a nightmare for opponents. He surpassed 100 steals Saturday against the Los Angeles Clippers and continues to lead the NBA at 3.2 per game - the highest mark since John Stockton's 3.21 in 1988-89. Daniels' league-high 6.7 deflections per contest also indicate his individual effort is resulting in so many cookies.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763539/cropped_GettyImages-2191757815.jpg?ts=1735964081" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763539/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191757815.jpg?ts=1735964081 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763539/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191757815.jpg?ts=1735964081 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763539/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191757815.jpg?ts=1735964081 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763539/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191757815.jpg?ts=1735964081 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763539/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191757815.jpg?ts=1735964081 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bart Young / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>1. Victor Wembanyama (Spurs): </strong>Teams are <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/team/1610612759/onoffcourt-opponent?dir=A&amp;sort=OPP_FG3A#:~:text=9.5-,26.9,-35.2">trying</a> nearly twice as many threes when Wemby's on the court (26.8<strong> </strong>attempts per game at<strong> </strong>35.3<strong>%</strong>) compared to when he sits (14.9,<strong> </strong>34.0<strong>%</strong>). To be fair, he impacts anything inside the arc, holding opponents to 47.4<strong>%</strong> on shots compared to 54.6% otherwise. That difference climbs the closer you get to the rim. He's no perimeter slouch, either; he <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/player/1641705/defense-dash?dir=A&amp;sort=DEFENSE_CATEGORY">defends</a> 5.5 threes per game, on which he holds shooters to 30.3%.</p><h3>Most Improved Player</h3><p><strong>3. Jalen Johnson (Hawks): </strong>Johnson is averaging career-highs in points (19.8), assists (5.3), and rebounds (10.1). The versatile wing is also 12th in the NBA in stocks (steals plus blocks) with 2.5. His impact on winning becomes apparent when he has been absent from the Hawks' lineup: Atlanta is 1-3 without the 23-year-old and is a combined minus-74 in those four games.</p><p><strong>2. Cade Cunningham (Pistons): </strong>The No. 1 pick in 2021 has taken a massive leap in his fourth year, shepherding Detroit to a 17-18 record. Cunningham is on pace to become only the eighth player in NBA history to average 23 points, nine assists, and six steals. We should expect his production to continue after Jaden Ivey broke his leg. In the two games without his running mate, Cunningham is averaging 24.1 points, 9.5 assists, and 6.7 rebounds.</p><p><strong>1. Tyler Herro (Heat): </strong>The Heat needed a new offensive engine as Jimmy Butler's feud with management hindered his output; Butler is averaging his lowest points per game (17.6) since joining Miami in 2019. Herro has settled into that role, averaging a team-high 23.8 points while shooting 47.5% from the field and 40.3% from deep. The Kentucky product has also improved his playmaking, dishing out a career-high 5.1 assists.</p><h3>Sixth Man of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. Santi Aldama (Grizzlies): </strong>The Spaniard has found his groove leading Memphis' bench, which is tops in the NBA in scoring (47.4). Aldama is contributing career-highs in points (13), rebounds (7.3), assists (3.0), field-goal percentage (50.8), and 3-point percentage (38.8) for the third-place Grizzlies. He has scored 20-plus points six times this season, a feat he accomplished only eight times across his first three years in the league.</p><p><strong>2. Payton Pritchard (Celtics):</strong> The 26-year-old has been the lone bright spot on a fairly underwhelming Celtics bench unit. He owns the fifth-highest scoring average on the team courtesy of a career-high 15.2 points, and he's splashing more than three 3-pointers a game on 8.4 attempts. The Oregon product<strong> </strong>leads the Celtics in 3-point percentage (42.4%) and is fourth in field-goal percentage (47.1<strong>%</strong>).</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763465/cropped_GettyImages-2191512177.jpg?ts=1735933186" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763465/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191512177.jpg?ts=1735933186 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763465/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191512177.jpg?ts=1735933186 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763465/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191512177.jpg?ts=1735933186 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763465/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191512177.jpg?ts=1735933186 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763465/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191512177.jpg?ts=1735933186 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bart Young / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>1. De'Andre</strong> <strong>Hunter (Hawks): </strong>Since becoming the Hawks' sixth man, Hunter has been a force. The Hawks own the third-highest scoring bench in the NBA (43.5), and a large part of that is because of Hunter's 19.8 points per game. The 27-year-old also holds the second-highest offensive rating (113.7) on Atlanta and the third-best net rating (0.6). Hunter's shooting splits are sitting at an impressive 47.9/43.3/86.2.</p><h3>Coach of the Year</h3><p><strong>3. Mark Daigneault (Thunder): </strong>The NBA has never had a repeat winner for Coach of the Year. But if Oklahoma City overtakes the Cavaliers for the best record in the league, Daigneault could make history. The Thunder coach has his squad in the midst of a 15-game win streak. OKC could reach the 60-win mark after posting 57 victories last season.</p><p><strong>2. Taylor Jenkins (Grizzlies): </strong>Despite consistent injuries, Jenkins has kept Memphis near the top of the Western Conference logjam. Thirteen players have logged more than 250 minutes this season, a testament to the team's versatile depth. The Grizzlies are getting contributions from rookies such as Edey and Jaylen Wells, role players such as Aldama and Scotty Pippen Jr., and their main core of Ja Morant, Jackson, and Desmond Bane.</p><p><strong>1. Kenny Atkinson (Cavaliers): </strong>Atkinson has Cleveland playing like a bona fide championship contender. The Cavs rank first in offensive rating and ninth in defensive rating, contributing to the Association's best<strong> </strong>record at<strong> </strong>31-4 thanks to two winning streaks of at least 10 contests. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are contributing more than 20 points a night, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen provide stellar paint protection.</p><h3>Most Valuable Player</h3><p><em>Please check out our most recent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3094583" href="https://thescore.com/news/3094583">MVP Rankings</a> for a detailed look at the top 10 candidates for the award.</em></p><p><strong>3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder)</strong><strong>: </strong>Oklahoma City is creating significant breathing room in a loaded Western Conference, and Gilgeous-Alexander is a major factor why:<strong> </strong>Amid the Thunder's 15-game winning streak, the Canadian guard is averaging 33.1<strong> </strong>points on 54.9/38.2/93.8 shooting splits while <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/team/1610612760/onoffcourt-summary?LastNGames=15">boasting</a> a team-best 16.8 net rating (minimum 50 minutes this season).</p><p><strong>2. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks): </strong>Milwaukee's turnaround has catapulted Antetokounmpo to serious MVP consideration. Not only do his 32.3<strong> </strong>points per game lead<strong> </strong>the NBA, but opponents shoot nearly 7.4<strong>% </strong>worse on twos when he's the primary defender.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761645/cropped_GettyImages-2181838657.jpg?ts=1734755468" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761645/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181838657.jpg?ts=1734755468 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761645/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181838657.jpg?ts=1734755468 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761645/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181838657.jpg?ts=1734755468 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761645/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181838657.jpg?ts=1734755468 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761645/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181838657.jpg?ts=1734755468 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michelle Farsi / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>1. Nikola Jokic (Nuggets): </strong>If you thought the Serbian superstar would slow down as 2024 wrapped up, you were all kinds of wrong. In seven games dating back to Denver's Christmas Day loss to the Phoenix Suns, Jokic is putting up an absurd 33.6 points, 14.9 rebounds,<strong> </strong>9.7 assists, and 1.9 steals on 50.9/37.2/83.7 splits. The Nuggets are only 4-3 in that time, but their All-Star center is putting up numbers worthy of a second consecutive MVP honor.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29713440/related

NBA awards watch: Atkinson eyeing top coach, ROY race open

To ring in the new year, theScore is looking ahead. While 2024 provided a number of indelible spo...

<p><em>To ring in the new year, theScore is looking ahead. While 2024 provided a number of indelible sports moments, 2025 promises to deliver its own share of memorable events and historic achievements. We've been counting down the 2025 storylines that have us most intrigued all week. Our five-part series concludes below with items 5-1.</em></p><p><strong>The complete series</strong>:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Dec. 30</th>
<th>Dec. 31</th>
<th>Jan. 1</th>
<th>Jan. 2</th>
<th>Jan. 3</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148952" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148952">25-21</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148953" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148953">20-16</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148954" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148954">15-11</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148955" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148955">10-6</a></td>
<td><strong>5-1</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>5. How much is left in LeBron's tank?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751248/cropped_GettyImages-2180392213.jpg?ts=1729656545" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751248/w220xh124_GettyImages-2180392213.jpg?ts=1729656545 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751248/w320xh180_GettyImages-2180392213.jpg?ts=1729656545 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751248/w640xh360_GettyImages-2180392213.jpg?ts=1729656545 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751248/w768xh432_GettyImages-2180392213.jpg?ts=1729656545 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751248/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2180392213.jpg?ts=1729656545 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>LeBron James, basketball's nearly 40-year-old marvel, continues to amaze in his record-tying 22nd NBA season. Vince Carter is the only other man to play in as many campaigns, but, with respect to the 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, he wasn't averaging a near 23-point triple-double in Year 22 on 35 minutes per game. That infamous tweet incorrectly predicting James' post-30 decline? That was nearly a decade ago. Predict this man's downfall at your own peril.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>But at the risk of James ridiculing this passage on whatever virtual reality social media exists in another 10 years, the Los Angeles Lakers megastar doesn't have much time left. He acknowledged as much himself.</p><p>We probably won't see the last of him in 2025 thanks to a $52.6-million player option for 2025-26, but an announcement that retirement's on the horizon is possible, and such an announcement would trigger several questions about his son, Bronny James, and the Lakers.</p><p>Bronny has a mostly guaranteed contract through 2026-27, but a $2.5-million team option for 2027-28 will loom large if his development goes askew and dad's already hung up his sneakers. If LeBron confirms plans to step away soon, the onus will be on the Lakers to prove their long-term commitment to Bronny. <em>- Jonathan Soveta</em></p><h3>4. Ovechkin chases down Gretzky</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756205/cropped_GettyImages-2181847191.jpg?ts=1732029862" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756205/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181847191.jpg?ts=1732029862 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756205/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181847191.jpg?ts=1732029862 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756205/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181847191.jpg?ts=1732029862 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756205/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181847191.jpg?ts=1732029862 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756205/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181847191.jpg?ts=1732029862 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John McCreary / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's not a matter of if, but a matter of when.</p><p>After a disappointing 2023-24 season - by Alex Ovechkin's standards - in which he only potted 31 goals in 79 games during his age-38 campaign, it was thought Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record was safe in 2024-25. Ovechkin entered the campaign 41 goals back of Gretzky's 894 - a record that was once viewed as unbreakable due to major goaltending advancements in the modern era.</p><p>But Ovechkin proved the doubters wrong early on in 2024-25. He was well on his way to eclipsing the record this season with 15 goals through his first 18 games before suffering a fractured fibula in November - a rarity given Ovechkin's machine-like durability throughout his storied career. "The Gr8 Chase" is now back on after Ovechkin returned from the injury in late December. He scored in his first game back, too.</p><p>It'll be an uphill battle to break the record this season, with 24 goals needed in 44 games. It's a pace Ovechkin is capable of matching, so don't put it past the sport's greatest goal-scorer. But more likely than not, the record will be his by fall 2025, early in the 2025-26 campaign.<em> - Josh Wegman</em></p><h3>3. Will Djokovic win record 25th major?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635468/cropped_GettyImages-2160275529.jpg?ts=1719944646" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635468/w220xh124_GettyImages-2160275529.jpg?ts=1719944646 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635468/w320xh180_GettyImages-2160275529.jpg?ts=1719944646 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635468/w640xh360_GettyImages-2160275529.jpg?ts=1719944646 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635468/w768xh432_GettyImages-2160275529.jpg?ts=1719944646 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635468/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2160275529.jpg?ts=1719944646 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>He's hired former World No. 1 Andy Murray to achieve just that. </p><p>Novak Djokovic is stuck on 24 Grand Slams and needs one more to break a tie with Margaret Court and set the all-time record in both men's and women's tennis.</p><p>Despite taking exceptional care of his body, Djokovic has had a much tougher time staying fit of late. He pulled out of the French Open with a torn meniscus, and as sensational as he was at Wimbledon just weeks after surgery, he suffered the rest of the season, falling in the third round in the US Open before withdrawing from the ATP Finals.</p><p>Murray could help Djokovic navigate his late-career injury rash. The Scot spent most of his career managing pain. But his rivals are punishing. Carlos Alcaraz, the Spaniard with impeccable court coverage, beat Djokovic in consecutive Wimbledon finals, while World No. 1 Jannik Sinner won each of his last three matches against the Serb and was nearly unbeatable in 2024.</p><p>With Rafael Nadal joining Roger Federer in retirement, Djokovic is the last man standing from the most imposing era of men's tennis. He'll do everything to complete his legacy with a record no one is ever likely to reach. All he needs is one tournament to do it. It's hard to bet against someone who's made a career out of upsetting the establishment. <em>- Anthony Lopopolo</em></p><h3>2. What will Ohtani do for an encore?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748685/cropped_GettyImages-2176129737.jpg?ts=1734398916" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748685/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176129737.jpg?ts=1734398916 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748685/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176129737.jpg?ts=1734398916 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748685/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176129737.jpg?ts=1734398916 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748685/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176129737.jpg?ts=1734398916 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748685/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176129737.jpg?ts=1734398916 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images / MediaNews Group / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Los Angeles Dodgers are building a dynasty thanks to an unparalleled ability to draft, develop, retain, and acquire talent. The proof is in the price tags – teams overpaid free agents all offseason in hopes of keeping up. Not content to sit on the throne after winning a second World Series title in five years, the Dodgers signed two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell to a $182-million deal, extended NLCS MVP Tommy Edman, and reunited with playoff closer Blake Treinen and All-Star outfielder Teoscar Hernández.</p><p>However, it's reigning National League MVP Shohei Ohtani who remains their X-factor in 2025. He took home the hardware last year after recording the first season with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in MLB history, and now he's primed to return to the mound as a pitcher. </p><p>When his elbow's healthy, he's an ace with a career 3.01 ERA who strikes out 11.4 batters per nine innings. He, Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and a healthy Tyler Glasnow will form one of the most fearsome quartets of starting pitchers ever assembled. To summarize, it will be a shock if the Dodgers <em>don't</em> become MLB's first repeat champions since the New York Yankees in 2000. <em>- Ben Wrixon</em></p><h3>1. Can Chiefs complete historic 3-peat?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750765/cropped_GettyImages-2177816982.jpg?ts=1734399351" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750765/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177816982.jpg?ts=1734399351 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750765/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177816982.jpg?ts=1734399351 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750765/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177816982.jpg?ts=1734399351 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750765/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177816982.jpg?ts=1734399351 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750765/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177816982.jpg?ts=1734399351 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Kansas City Chiefs are the NFL's latest dynasty, but they enter 2025 eyeing something that no other franchise has ever done - winning three straight Super Bowls. No team has even reached the Big Game in the third year after winning it consecutively in the previous two campaigns.</p><p>Kansas City lifted its third Lombardi Trophy - the second in a row - of the Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid era in February, and the team returned Travis Kelce, Chris Jones, and other cornerstones to make another deep playoff run. This regular season has seen the Chiefs play more close games than they would like, but make no mistake - K.C. still boasts an extremely clutch offense that is supported by a strong defense. That was enough for Mahomes and Co. to win it all 10 months ago, and it gives them a real shot at rewriting history in the 2025 postseason.</p><p>Can Mahomes do it again? Will Kelce and K.C.'s shorthanded group of pass-catchers step up one more time? It'll be fascinating to see if Kansas City can complete a historic three-peat in what should be its most challenging postseason yet. The Chiefs have several Hall of Famers on their side, but history is against them. <em>- Caio Miari</em></p><p><strong><em>What are you most excited about in 2025? Let us know in the comments!</em></strong></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29669522/related

5 biggest sports storylines we're most excited about in 2025

theScore is ringing in the new year and looking ahead with anticipation. While 2024 provided many...

<p><em>theScore is ringing in the new year and looking ahead with anticipation. While 2024 provided many indelible sports moments, 2025 promises to deliver its share of memorable events and historic achievements. Below, we're counting down the 2025 storylines that intrigue us most. Our five-part series continues with items 10-6.</em></p><p><strong>Follow the entire series this week</strong>:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Dec. 30</th>
<th>Dec. 31</th>
<th>Jan. 1</th>
<th>Jan. 2</th>
<th>Jan. 3</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148952" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148952">25-21</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148953" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148953">20-16</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148954" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148954">15-11</a></td>
<td><strong>10-6</strong></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148956" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148956">5-1</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>10. Hamilton, Ferrari take aim at Verstappen</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761097/cropped_GettyImages-2149337664.jpg?ts=1734453137" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761097/w220xh124_GettyImages-2149337664.jpg?ts=1734453137 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761097/w320xh180_GettyImages-2149337664.jpg?ts=1734453137 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761097/w640xh360_GettyImages-2149337664.jpg?ts=1734453137 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761097/w768xh432_GettyImages-2149337664.jpg?ts=1734453137 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761097/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2149337664.jpg?ts=1734453137 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Clive Mason - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Lewis Hamilton is switching teams for the first time in 12 seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hamilton, arguably the best Formula 1 driver ever, announced prior to the 2024 season that he'd be joining Ferrari on a multi-year contract. The move was one of the biggest since the sport's inception considering Hamilton and Mercedes' pairing is the most successful in motor racing history. The 39-year-old won six drivers' championships with the iconic outfit and has a joint record of seven individual titles. Lewis also holds the milestone for the most wins and podiums, the majority of which he earned with Mercedes. The rest came during his six-year tenure at McLaren, who use a Mercedes engine.</p><p>However, Hamilton has sustained multiple setbacks in the past three seasons. He recorded the first winless campaigns of his 18-year career in 2022 and 2023, as his car lacked competitiveness. Meanwhile, Red Bull's Max Verstappen has dominated by winning the title in the last four consecutive years.</p><p>But Verstappen experienced several performance struggles in 2024, while Ferrari performed relatively consistently. A change of scenery and a strong driving partner in Charles Leclerc could give Hamilton the edge to chase a record-breaking eighth drivers' title. Racing for Ferrari and breaking his tie with Michael Schumacher would be the stuff of legends. <em>- Sarah Wallace</em></p><h3>9. Canadian Stanley Cup champion at last?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761010/cropped_GettyImages-2184498373.jpg?ts=1734398039" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761010/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184498373.jpg?ts=1734398039 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761010/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184498373.jpg?ts=1734398039 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761010/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184498373.jpg?ts=1734398039 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761010/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184498373.jpg?ts=1734398039 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761010/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184498373.jpg?ts=1734398039 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mark Blinch / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's one of the most perplexing trends in pro sports: no Canadian-based NHL team since the 1993 Montreal Canadiens has won the Cup. Seven have competed in the Final over the past 31 years, including several - such as the 2011 Vancouver Canucks and 2024 Edmonton Oilers - who lost in Game 7.</p><p>The drought is part statistical anomaly (how can a group this size go so long without a single championship?) and part mismanagement (some <em>very</em> lean years in each market).</p><p>Five of Canada's seven teams are currently in a playoff spot. The Calgary Flames and Ottawa Senators are just happy to be in the mix this deep into the season, while the other three have legitimate shots at challenging for the Cup.</p><p>The Winnipeg Jets set a record for most wins in the first 15 games of a season and, at the 39-game mark, own the best record in the league thanks to a stellar power play and superb goaltending. The Toronto Maple Leafs - perennial playoff chokers - are thriving under new coach Craig Berube and sit atop the Atlantic Division. The Edmonton Oilers, who boast two of the five best players on the planet in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are third in the Pacific.</p><p>Maybe this is Canada's year. <em>- John Matisz</em></p><h3>8. Clark's sophomore season</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745311/cropped_GettyImages-2171579622.jpg?ts=1726433491" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745311/w220xh124_GettyImages-2171579622.jpg?ts=1726433491 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745311/w320xh180_GettyImages-2171579622.jpg?ts=1726433491 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745311/w640xh360_GettyImages-2171579622.jpg?ts=1726433491 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745311/w768xh432_GettyImages-2171579622.jpg?ts=1726433491 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745311/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2171579622.jpg?ts=1726433491 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ron Hoskins / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Three things in life seem guaranteed: death, taxes, and Caitlin Clark making basketball history.</p><p>Clark is one of the WNBA's generational talents and has been grabbing headlines for as long as she's played. After becoming the top scorer in NCAA D-1 history and making the NCAA Tournament final, Clark went to the Indiana Fever as the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. The point guard made an instant impact, breaking the rookie scoring record and single-season assist mark. Clark's production earned her Rookie of the Year honors and a spot on the All-WNBA first team - the first rookie to earn that distinction since 2008.</p><p>After a dismal start to the campaign, the Fever bounced back to end the team's seven-year playoff drought, which was tied for the longest in league history. Indiana is the second club to make the playoffs after starting 1-8 or worse.</p><p>The Connecticut Sun swept the Fever in the best-of-three opening round, but considering all Clark accomplished as a rookie, it wouldn't be too far-fetched to think she could lead Indiana to the WNBA Finals as early as 2025. <em>- Wallace</em></p><h3>7. Travis Hunter, two-way NFL star?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747460/cropped_GettyImages-2175365763.jpg?ts=1734398419" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747460/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175365763.jpg?ts=1734398419 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747460/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175365763.jpg?ts=1734398419 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747460/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175365763.jpg?ts=1734398419 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747460/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175365763.jpg?ts=1734398419 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747460/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175365763.jpg?ts=1734398419 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Don Juan Moore / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Meet Travis Hunter, one of college football's most versatile players ever.</p><p>The Colorado wide receiver and cornerback occupies a rare space in football by playing almost every offensive and defensive snap. Not only that, but he's one of the best players in the country at both positions. Hunter's incredible 2024 season earned him a bevy of individual accolades, including the Heisman Trophy.</p><p>Hunter will enter the 2025 NFL Draft and intends to play both positions at the pro level. It may seem impossible, but he wouldn't be the first. The last starter to see action on both sides of the ball was Chuck Bednarik, who played center and linebacker from 1949-62. Colorado coach Deion Sanders was primarily an NFL cornerback who dabbled at wide receiver.</p><p>Hunter's ability to start at two positions will come down to logistical issues rather than talent. NFL players take fewer snaps than college athletes, and the risk of injury doubles when you take every snap in a game. The team that lands the highly touted prospect will decide whether the risk is worth the reward. <em>- Wallace</em></p><h3>6. What is Wemby's ceiling in 2025?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756980/cropped_GettyImages-2184313817.jpg?ts=1732406951" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756980/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184313817.jpg?ts=1732406951 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756980/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184313817.jpg?ts=1732406951 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756980/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184313817.jpg?ts=1732406951 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756980/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184313817.jpg?ts=1732406951 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756980/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184313817.jpg?ts=1732406951 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Gonzales / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Victor Wembanyama exceeded all hype in his Rookie of the Year campaign despite a jumbled San Antonio Spurs squad making consistency difficult. He was involved in 14 different starting lineups in 2023-24, several featuring 6-foot-8 forward Jeremy Sochan at point guard.</p><p>Yet, Wembanyama still averaged a 21-point double-double and led the league in blocks with 3.6 per game, the third-best mark ever by a rookie. He also finished runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year. Trying to pin a ceiling on the rest of what should be an illustrious career is a fool's errand, but there are realistic expectations for growth in a shorter-term vision through 2025.</p><p>The 20-year-old is hitting nearly twice as many shots from deep per contest as he did as a rookie - and at a slightly more efficient clip. His current pace of 3.3 threes per game would join him with Lauri Markkanen and Karl-Anthony Towns as the only 7-footers to average three or more over a season. But neither boasts the defensive impact Wembanyama does. His first 50-point game on Nov. 13 against the Washington Wizards (18-of-26 shooting, 8-of-16 from deep) may have been a prophetic glimpse of his outside shot developing into a consistent threat.</p><p>Combined with the fact he already has two of the 27 recorded 5x5 games in NBA history, an emphatic start to season No. 3 in 2025-26 could produce the first serious MVP discussions for the French prodigy. They won't be the last, either. <em>- Jonathan Soveta</em></p><p><strong><em>Our series wraps Friday with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148956" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148956">top five</a>.</em></strong></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29656577/related

Ranking 25 storylines we're most excited about in 2025 (Part 4)

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>In this edition, we're celebrating the first day of the new calendar with one New Year's resolution for each of the league's 30 teams.</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 (27-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 1</p><p><strong>Focus on the future</strong>: OKC has put its NBA Cup defeat to the Bucks in the rearview mirror and is riding a 12-game winning streak. No team seems equipped to stop a potential Thunder run to the Finals.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">2. Cleveland Cavaliers (29-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 2</p><p><strong>Punish lazy opponents</strong>: Cleveland's been fundamentally solid but could better capitalize on second-chance points. The Cavs are tied for 20th in the league with 12.8 per game while ranking 26th<strong> </strong>in offensive rebounding percentage (26.4%).</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">3. New York Knicks (23-10)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 8</p><p><strong>Let Miles McBride shine</strong>: The 24-year-old has effortlessly slotted into the Donte DiVincenzo role, scoring a career-high 9.8 points while shooting 40.2% from three. Only OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns have a better plus-minus per 100 possessions than McBride's plus-4.7.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">4. Boston Celtics (24-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 3</p><p><strong>More bench production</strong>: Payton Pritchard is arguably the leading Sixth Man of the Year candidate, but the Celtics need more from their bench overall. Boston's second unit is averaging 30.3 points, which ranks 25th<strong> </strong>in the Association.</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">5. Memphis Grizzlies (23-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 5</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758804/cropped_GettyImages-2187585577.jpg?ts=1735669634" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758804/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187585577.jpg?ts=1735669634 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758804/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187585577.jpg?ts=1735669634 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758804/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187585577.jpg?ts=1735669634 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758804/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187585577.jpg?ts=1735669634 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758804/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187585577.jpg?ts=1735669634 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Heitman / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Take care of the rock</strong>: Memphis' strong two-way play shouldn't overshadow its issues with ball security. The Jazz are the only team averaging more turnovers than the Grizzlies, with Ja Morant coughing up the rock nearly four times per game.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">6. Houston Rockets (21-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 7</p><p><strong>Find Fred VanVleet's shooting touch</strong>: The Rockets have the league's third-lowest 3-point percentage (30.6%), largely due to VanVleet's cold season from outside. The 30-year-old has often hovered near 40% from deep but is shooting a career-low 32.5% this season.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">7. Dallas Mavericks (20-13)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 4</p><p><strong>Learn to live without Luka</strong>: Doncic will likely miss all of January with a calf strain, and Dallas needs to adjust ASAP. The Mavericks' offensive rating takes an eight-point dip without the superstar on the court this season.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">8. Orlando Magic (20-14)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 9</p><p><strong>Stay competitive</strong>: With the Magic's two best players injured, it could be easy to fall out of contention. Luckily, teammates like Jalen Suggs and Goga Bitadze have stepped up recently, a trend Orlando needs to continue.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">9. Los Angeles Lakers (18-14)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 17</p><p><strong>Maximize this season</strong>: On the heels of LeBron James' 40th birthday, it's time for the Lakers to use their draft picks and bring in another high-level player to give him and Anthony Davis one more shot at a championship.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">10. Milwaukee Bucks (17-14)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 6</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763014/cropped_GettyImages-2190881204.jpg?ts=1735669721" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763014/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190881204.jpg?ts=1735669721 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763014/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190881204.jpg?ts=1735669721 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763014/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190881204.jpg?ts=1735669721 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763014/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190881204.jpg?ts=1735669721 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763014/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190881204.jpg?ts=1735669721 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gary Dineen / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Unleash Andre Jackson Jr.</strong>: The second-year guard has provided some much-needed athleticism and defensive versatility since entering the Bucks' starting lineup. Doc Rivers should optimize Jackson's secondary playmaking ability, too, with Milwaukee ranking 23rd in assists.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">11. Los Angeles Clippers (19-14)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 16</p><p><strong>Make Norman Powell an All-Star</strong>: Powell is averaging a career-high <strong>24.3</strong> points for a Clippers squad that sits sixth in the West. He is in the 98th percentile of 3-point accuracy, knocking down 45.1% of his 8.3 attempts per game.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">12. Denver Nuggets (18-13)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 11</p><p><strong>Get Zach LaVine</strong>. Except for Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets have struggled offensively this season. The supposedly available Bulls guard's 22 points per game would make him Denver's second-leading scorer.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">13. Atlanta Hawks (18-15)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 13</p><p><strong>Surround Trae with shooters</strong>: Atlanta's offense sits in the middle of the pack despite Trae Young's strong play. Adding some 3-point snipers to the mix would open driving lanes for Young and create more assist opportunities off the drive-and-kick.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">14. Minnesota Timberwolves (17-15)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 12</p><p><strong>Start up a swear jar for Ant</strong>: Anthony Edwards has been fined multiple times already this season, most recently getting docked $100K for using profanity while <em>celebrating</em> a game-winner. Putting away smaller amounts to help him catch himself may be less expensive in the long run.</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">15. Golden State Warriors (16-16)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 15</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761539/cropped_GettyImages-2190766433.jpg?ts=1735669777" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761539/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190766433.jpg?ts=1735669777 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761539/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190766433.jpg?ts=1735669777 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761539/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190766433.jpg?ts=1735669777 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761539/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190766433.jpg?ts=1735669777 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761539/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190766433.jpg?ts=1735669777 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Ford / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Get rid of the mid</strong>: Stephen Curry aptly called the Warriors "mid" (i.e. extremely average) after they fell back to .500 on Monday. That should point them toward an offensive overhaul in 2025 since they're also the NBA's fourth-worst team from mid-range (37.9%).</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">16. Miami Heat (16-14)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 10</p><p><strong>Move on from Jimmy Butler</strong>: Even though Pat Riley said the team won't trade Butler, the Heat might still need to grant his reported wishes in order to reset the team's outlook with new players or future draft picks.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">17. San Antonio Spurs (17-16)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 18</p><p><strong>Add a second star</strong>: Victor Wembanyama is clearly the NBA's next superstar, but in order to reach the mountaintop, he needs a star running mate. A player like De'Aaron Fox would fit nicely and make the Spurs contenders.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">18. Indiana Pacers (16-18)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 20</p><p><strong>Play fast again</strong>: Indiana was second in both pace and offensive rating last season but plummeted to seventh and 10th in those respective stats this campaign. It's time to bring back the fun, run-and-gun Pacers who got easy buckets in transition.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">19. Philadelphia 76ers (13-17)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 25</p><p><strong>Crash the glass</strong>: Joel Embiid's frequent absences don't excuse his teammates' poor efforts on the glass. The 76ers rank 29th<strong> </strong>in overall boards and 30th<strong> </strong>in defensive rebounds.</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">20. Phoenix Suns (15-17)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 14</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762121/cropped_GettyImages-2148229405.jpg?ts=1735085831" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762121/w220xh124_GettyImages-2148229405.jpg?ts=1735085831 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762121/w320xh180_GettyImages-2148229405.jpg?ts=1735085831 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762121/w640xh360_GettyImages-2148229405.jpg?ts=1735085831 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762121/w768xh432_GettyImages-2148229405.jpg?ts=1735085831 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762121/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2148229405.jpg?ts=1735085831 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Upgrade at center</strong>: A more defensive-minded big man would fit better alongside the offensive trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Flipping Jusuf Nurkic for a paint protector would help balance the roster.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">21. Detroit Pistons (14-18)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 22</p><p><strong>Take more risks</strong>: The Pistons <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/teams/scoring?dir=A&amp;sort=PCT_PTS_FB#:~:text=36.1-,15.2,-14.1">score</a> 15.2% of their points on the fast break - the league's fourth-highest percentage - but they average a second-worst 6.9 steals. They should leverage their strength in transition by cheating slightly for more cookies in 2025.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">22. Chicago Bulls (15-18)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 21</p><p><strong>Get some assets:</strong> The Bulls should embrace the rebuild and move some of their veterans. If traded, Zach LaVine, Lonzo Ball, and Nikola Vucevic could all bring back some assets, helping boost Chicago's draft odds in the process.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">23. Portland Trail Blazers (11-21)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 24</p><p><strong>Find the next leader</strong>: Chauncey Billups doesn't seem to be the head coach who will lead the franchise into its next era of competitive basketball. Portland's gone 92-186 in his three-plus seasons.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">24. Brooklyn Nets (12-20)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 23</p><p><strong>Enter tank mode:</strong> The Nets are hanging around in the play-in tourney mix, but they obviously don't have the talent to compete for real. Brooklyn can expedite its descent by moving some veteran pieces ahead of the trade deadline.</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">25. Sacramento Kings (14-19)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 19</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755813/cropped_GettyImages-2184520955.jpg?ts=1735670068" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755813/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184520955.jpg?ts=1735670068 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755813/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184520955.jpg?ts=1735670068 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755813/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184520955.jpg?ts=1735670068 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755813/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184520955.jpg?ts=1735670068 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755813/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184520955.jpg?ts=1735670068 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rocky Widner / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Free De'Aaron Fox:</strong> The 27-year-old guard is having an outstanding season for the Kings, averaging 26.5 points and 6.3 assists on 48.4% shooting. After firing head coach Mike Brown, it's clear the franchise is directionless; free Fox before his prime runs out.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">26. Utah Jazz (7-24)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 28</p><p><strong>Tighten up defensively</strong>: The Jazz own the league's worst defensive rating (119.8), giving up the third-most points to opponents. Despite Walker Kessler ranking second in blocks per game (2.8), Will Hardy's squad has trouble getting stops.</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">27. Charlotte Hornets (7-25)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 26</p><p><strong>Learn an obscure language</strong>: Look, the Hornets are 7-25, have lost eight straight, and can't stay healthy. Imagine how unstoppable they could be next season when opponents can't understand them communicating in fluent Esperanto or High Valyrian.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">28. Washington Wizards (5-25)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 30</p><p><strong>Play the youngsters</strong>: The Wizards are in full rebuild mode. They need to ship out aging pieces like Kyle Kuzma, Malcolm Brogdon, and Jonas Valanciunas to open up more opportunities for their young players.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">29. Toronto Raptors (7-25)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 27</p><p><strong>Sell high:</strong> RJ Barrett and Jakob Poeltl are averaging career highs in points and Chris Boucher is having his best season since 2020-21. These numbers may never be duplicated, so Toronto should seek the most value possible in return.</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">30. New Orleans Pelicans (5-28)</a></h3><p><em>Previous:</em> 29</p><p><strong>Learn to shoot</strong>: The Pelicans have the second-worst offense in the Association thanks to a league-low 50.3 effective field-goal percentage. Their putrid shooting has nothing to do with bombing threes, either: New Orleans attempts 33.7 triples a game, the fourth-fewest in the NBA.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29646969/related

NBA Power Rankings: New Year's resolutions for each team

<p><em>To ring in the new year, theScore is looking ahead. While 2024 provided a number of indelible sports moments, 2025 promises to deliver its own share of memorable events and historic achievements. Below, we're counting down the 2025 storylines that have us most intrigued. Our five-part series continues with items 15-11.</em></p><p><strong>Follow the entire series this week</strong>:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Dec. 30</th>
<th>Dec. 31</th>
<th>Jan. 1</th>
<th>Jan. 2</th>
<th>Jan. 3</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148952" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148952">25-21</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148953" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148953">20-16</a></td>
<td><strong>15-11</strong></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148955" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148955">10-6</a></td>
<td><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148956" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148956">5-1</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>15. Where will Shedeur go in NFL draft?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759364/cropped_GettyImages-2175387603.jpg?ts=1733576389" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759364/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175387603.jpg?ts=1733576389 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759364/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175387603.jpg?ts=1733576389 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759364/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175387603.jpg?ts=1733576389 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759364/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175387603.jpg?ts=1733576389 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759364/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175387603.jpg?ts=1733576389 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Don Juan Moore / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A potential top quarterback prospect hasn't refused to play for an NFL team picking at the top of the first round since Eli Manning shunned the then-San Diego Chargers in 2004. Shedeur Sanders and father Deion might change that in 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Colorado signal-caller is projected to be the first quarterback off the board thanks to a stellar body of work that peaked with his performance in 2024. Any NFL franchise that selects Sanders would undoubtedly be adding a talented passer, but will he play ball?</p><p>Sanders hasn't been shy about teasing his love for the Las Vegas Raiders. His father has been even more upfront, with video resurfacing from February of him telling head coach Antonio Pierce to draft his sons. While the Sanders family may prefer the Colorado passer to be the face of Las Vegas, there's no certainty it'll happen. If it doesn't, the league may have the first standoff between a franchise and star prospect in over two decades. <em>- Daniel Valente</em></p><h3>14. Continued expansion of women's sports</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743630/cropped_GettyImages-2154693350.jpg?ts=1725386015" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743630/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154693350.jpg?ts=1725386015 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743630/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154693350.jpg?ts=1725386015 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743630/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154693350.jpg?ts=1725386015 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743630/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154693350.jpg?ts=1725386015 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743630/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154693350.jpg?ts=1725386015 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The year 2024 was huge for women's sports: Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese debuted in the WNBA, the PWHL's inaugural season was a smashing success, and Ilona Maher brought rugby to the cultural forefront. More success is expected next year: the WNBA's first Canadian expansion team is landing in Toronto, the PWHL is already talking expansion, and Euro 2025 will be one of the most-watched women's soccer tournaments ever.</p><p>Will Sarah Nurse reach new heights? Is the PWHL going to Alberta? Will Paige Bueckers immediately compete with Clark and Reese when she turns pro? Who'll be the Toronto Tempo's first signing?</p><p>Fans are sitting on the edges of their seats to watch what happens next in women's sports, and people are hungry to get close to the action. Women's sports are here to stay, and 2025 will surely take them to new heights. <em>- Erica Commisso</em></p><h3>13. Does the NFL have a quarterback problem?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752657/cropped_GettyImages-2181946728.jpg?ts=1730320918" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752657/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181946728.jpg?ts=1730320918 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752657/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181946728.jpg?ts=1730320918 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752657/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181946728.jpg?ts=1730320918 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752657/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181946728.jpg?ts=1730320918 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752657/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181946728.jpg?ts=1730320918 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The NFL is running thin on patience for its young quarterbacks. Bryce Young was benched following just two weeks this season after starting every game he played as a rookie. Anthony Richardson was demoted to backup duties after just 10 career starts across his first two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. Both have since regained starting status, but the process has been anything but seamless.</p><p>Peyton Manning wasn't benched despite going 3-13 and throwing 28 interceptions in his rookie campaign. Even if Young and Richardson are unlikely to ever reach Manning's heights, they need reps to become a franchise signal-caller - or prove they definitively aren't one. Benching a quarterback can also damage their confidence.</p><p>Colorado's Shedeur Sanders, Miami's Cam Ward, and Alabama's Jalen Milroe are widely expected to be picked early in the 2025 draft. They all could be on short leashes if they don't play well immediately given recent trends, regardless of how highly they're viewed as prospects. For their developments' sake, they'll have to hope they're granted more grace than others have received in recent years. <em>- Andrew Dixon</em></p><h3>12. Who else will Messi attract to MLS?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627615/cropped_GettyImages-2151492396.jpg?ts=1714874297" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627615/w220xh124_GettyImages-2151492396.jpg?ts=1714874297 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627615/w320xh180_GettyImages-2151492396.jpg?ts=1714874297 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627615/w640xh360_GettyImages-2151492396.jpg?ts=1714874297 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627615/w768xh432_GettyImages-2151492396.jpg?ts=1714874297 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/627615/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2151492396.jpg?ts=1714874297 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Lionel Messi has already gotten most of the old band back together. A bunch of his teammates at Barcelona, including Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez, now play with Messi in Miami. Javier Mascherano, another former teammate, coaches the Major League Soccer team. So there's no impediment here. Inter Miami want to keep Messi happy, and they'll do everything to extend his contract beyond next season.</p><p>Neymar could help them achieve their goal.</p><p>Neymar was Messi's teammate for four seasons at Barcelona and part of the gun-slinging trio that, along with Suarez, scored an incredible 363 goals. Messi and Neymar remained friends even after the Brazilian left for Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. The two reunited at PSG in 2021 and supported each other when fans of the club jeered them toward the end of their time there. Crucially, Neymar's contract in Saudi Arabia expires in June 2025, boosting Miami's chances of signing him on a free transfer.</p><p>But Miami isn't Major League Soccer's only destination. San Diego's new franchise could attract a number of star players on expiring contracts. Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne is the most high-profile candidate. He's struggled to stay fit in recent seasons, and now that he's won all there is to win in club soccer, the 33-year-old could find a move to sunny San Diego attractive. <em>- Anthony Lopopolo</em></p><h3>11. Can Cooper Flagg prevent UConn's dynasty?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758971/cropped_GettyImages-2187681927.jpg?ts=1733373788" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758971/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187681927.jpg?ts=1733373788 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758971/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187681927.jpg?ts=1733373788 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758971/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187681927.jpg?ts=1733373788 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758971/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187681927.jpg?ts=1733373788 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758971/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187681927.jpg?ts=1733373788 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lance King / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>UConn entered the 2024-25 season as the team to beat after back-to-back national titles. However, Duke and its much-hyped generational freshman have emerged as a threat to the Huskies' dominance.</p><p>Decorated forward Cooper Flagg has commanded everyone's attention as one of the few superstar talents in the 2024 freshman class. "The Maine Event" is poised to become the cornerstone of any franchise fortunate enough to land him in the 2025 NBA Draft.</p><p>But first, Flagg is looking to end UConn's chances of becoming the first team since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's UCLA squad to three-peat. He'd undoubtedly love nothing more than to halt the UConn dynasty and leave his fingerprints all over college basketball before entering the NBA. <em>- Oscar Creed</em></p><p><strong><em>The rollout continues Thursday with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148955" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148955">Nos. 10-6</a>.</em></strong></p>

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