BIG3 Basketball: Top Week 2 Performances

Jeremy Pargo (Triplets)

Stats: 31 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists

It’s common to see a player from the Triplets have a dominating performance but this time it wasn’t Iso Joe. The sweet-shooting Jeremy Pargo carried his team to their first win of the season after a 50-42 win over Trilogy. He led the whole BIG3 in scoring for week two with an amazing 31 points. Pargo did that while making 12 field goals, five of them from behind the arc, with two being from 4-point range. This was a complete turnaround from his six-point performance last week and he will be an intricate part of what the Triplets do this year.

Jason Richardson (Tri State)

Stats: 29 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals

Tri State dominated Power by the score of 52-32 and Jason Richardson was a big reason why. He filled the stat sheet as he had 29 points with six rebounds and assists a piece. He also made five triples to make it even more impressive. If the offensive side of the ball wasn’t enough, he tallied four steals to cap off a great game. This came after his great performance in the team’s win last week when he scored 19 points to go along with 13 rebounds. If he keeps this up, it’ll be tough to beat Tri State and keep him away from the MVP discussion. 

Jordan Crawford (Enemies)

Stats: 22 points, 7 rebound

After scoring 22 points last week in a loss, Jordan Crawford decided to have another 22-point performance this week, resulting in a win this time around. He also chipped in seven rebounds, showing he’s a problem on the boards as he had eight rebounds last week. So far, Crawford is looking like he will be the key to success for the Enemies and can turn this season around after missing the playoffs last season.

Janis Timma (Aliens)

Stats: 21 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals

The Aliens are 0-2 this season after suffering losses to the Ball Hogs and Ghost Ballers but it’s certainly not because of Janis Timma. He’s led the team in points in both games, which included 21 points with six rebounds and three assists in week two. He also put in some work on the defensive end, getting three steals. Timma did everything to try to get the Aliens their first win of the season but fell short. They are bound to win very soon if he keeps this up.

Michael Beasley (3’s Company)

Stats: 17 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, 1 steal)

Michael Beasley was all over the stat sheet this week. He put up back-to-back double-doubles, scoring 21 points with 10 rebounds last week, and followed that up with a 17-point, 11-rebound performance this week. What might be even more impressive is his efforts on the defensive side of the ball, tallying three blocks and a steal. 3’s Company went on a huge run at the end of the game, which Beasley was a part of, but just feel short. They fall to 0-2 but the team’s losses won’t hide what Beasley has done so far through two weeks.

Other Notable Performances:

Jodie Meeks (Ball Hogs): 18 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals
Dante Green (Killer 3s): 19 points, 7 rebounds, 1 steal
Corey Brewers (Bivouac): 17 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, 1 block
Rashard Lewis (3 Headed Monsters): 17 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block
Chris Johnson (Ghost Ballers): 17 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 assist
Jonathan Simmons (Ghost Ballers): 16 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 1 block
Kevin Murphy (3 Headed Monsters): 18 points, 6 assists, 2 rebounds, 1 steal
Isaiah Briscoe (Trilogy): 17 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block
Deshawn Stephens (Tri State): 18 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist

Week 3 Matchups (Sunday, July 9th):

Trilogy (1-1) vs Power (1-1)
Triplets (1-1) vs Tri State (2-0)
3 Headed Monsters (1-1) vs 3’s Company (0-2)
Enemies (1-1) vs Bivouac (1-1)
Aliens (0-2) vs Killer 3’s (1-1)
Ghost Ballers (2-0) vs Ball Hogs (1-1)

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3 Reasons Why the Blues Drafting Dvorsky Was the Right Move

Fills a Need Down the Middle

The Blues went into the NHL Draft with two positions of need, defenseman, and center. When two of the top blue liners went off the board, GM Doug Armstrong turned to down the middle of the ice and selected Dvorsky. This was the clear and obvious choice for the franchise if you look at what the Blues have among their prospect pool and what the state of the position could be in the future at the NHL level.

Robert Thomas is clearly their top centerman and will anchor the first line but after that, it gets kind of sketchy. The Blues have guys like Nikita Alexandrov and Zack Dean who could really help down the middle but they aren’t looked at like a Dvorsky is. They are really high Zachary Bolduc but he is projected to slide over to wing. The Blues did, however, draft centerman Otto Stenberg with their 25th overall pick, who is talented, but not on the level of Dvorsky.

At the NHL level (aside from Alexandrov), the Blues have good talent like Brayden Schenn and Kevin Hayes anchoring the second and third line down the middle but they are getting up there in age (both 31) and the tea, will be looking for youth to set their long-term plans, like Dvorsky.

Dvorsky has some things to improve upon but he projects as a second-line center at the highest level and that’s exactly what the Blues are hoping the 10th overall pick turns into.

His Shooting Ability

Coming into the draft, Dvorsky’s shooting ability was looked at as one of the best in this year’s class. Whether it’s his wrist shot or slap shot, the 18-year-old centerman displays power and quickness but what might be even more impressive about his shot is his accuracy. When he has space to set up shop and find his target, he can be a problem. Dvorsky can get himself into a scoring position and isn’t afraid to shoot, which is where his accuracy shines. He can create offense just off of his shot alone and has the patients to wait for the shot he is looking for. 

Another layer to his game that makes his shot so accurate is his strong puck-handling and puck-possession ability. This past season, he had six goals and eight assists in the Allsvenskan League, which is known to be a low-scoring league. He also put up an impressive 10 goals and 11 assists in 10 games for Sweden’s junior team while scoring eight goals and having five assists in seven games for Team Slovakia in the 2023 IIHF World Under-18 Championship. Dvorsky has shown he can score, making him a great addition for the Blues looking to improve in that area.

He’s a Berube-type Player

The one thing the Blues have looked for over the past several years are Berube-type players and Dvorsky fits that description to a tee. As much as we talk about his shot and offense, he is an incredible two-way player, holding one of the best if not the best defensive games of a forward in the draft. He has incredible sense and anticipation on defense that allows him to read the play before it happens. Dvorsky’s backchecking and willingness to be physical are what sets him apart from others. 

This all makes Dvorsky a 200-foot player who works hard at both ends of the ice, emptying the tank no matter the situation. The toughness, grit, consistency, and workhorse mentality perfectly exemplify what head coach Craig Berube looks for in a player. His two-game shows that he can play extremely well both on the power-play and penalty kill, making him even more valuable.

Dvorsky is highly coachable that will do whatever is asked, which is why making this pick was the right choice. Assuming Berube is still with the Blues by the time Dvorsky makes it to the NHL, he will be one of the go-to guys for the team for a long time.

Final Thoughts

While Dvorsky obviously won’t be NHL-ready in 2023-24, there’s thought that he could be ready by 2024-25 at the earliest. While his strengths were very much highlighted, he does have a clear weakness and that’s his skating. While that part of his game is questionable, it’s something that can be worked on and improved before getting the call to the NHL. If he can elevate that part of his game, the sky is the limit. Dvorsky has a ton of upside to his game and can be an anchor down the middle as a projected second-line center.

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Tomorrow starts week one with a six-game slate on the schedule as there are a handful of teams that have a legit shot to win the 2023 BIG3 Championship. There are new and exciting names entering the league along with seasoned veterans across the landscape. The popularity of the BIG3 is only getting bigger and this season is set to be one of the most exciting to date.

Top Four Teams Who Could Win the 2023 BIG3 Championship

4. Power (2022 Record: 5-3)

After winning the BIG3 Basketball Championship in 2018, Power has been close to adding another but has fallen short of doing so. They made the championship game last season but couldn’t get passed a strong Trilogy team.

Power returns nearly all of their talent from 2022, with the exception of Nikoloz Tskitishvili, who’s been replaced by the skilled Akil Mitchell. Among the returns are the number one overall pick in 2022 and one of the best scorers in the BIG3, Glen Rice Jr., who won Rookie of the Year after placing top-5 in total points, rebounds, and assists. Captain Cuttino Mobley is the perfect player to lead this team. He’s been an intricate part of Power’s success throughout the years. Although he didn’t stuff the stat sheet in 2022 like in years past, his leadership and high IQ are exactly what Power needs.

They also have a great playmaker in Royce White, who was fourth in the league with 4.0 assists a game and third in total assists. He also tallied 54 total rebounds, good for third in the league. Don’t forget T.J. Cline, who was second on the team with 10.4 points per game. With head coach Nancy Lieberman back at the helm and instilling her almost unstoppable system since day one, Power will have a great chance to win their second title.

3. Triplets (2022 Record: 2-4)

How can the Triplets be favorites to win the 2023 BIG3 Championship after being one of the worst teams in the league last season? They went 2-4 and were near or at the bottom in almost every statistical category as a team. The answer to that question is because of one name, Joe Johnson. He missed all but three games in 2022 after taking a hiatus during the season.

Iso Joe, as they call him, won back-to-back MVP awards in 2019 and 2021 after leading the league in points in both seasons. He also landed near the top in rebounds and assists in those years. Not only did he shine on the offensive side but he was second in total steals in 2019 and 2021 as well. With all this talk about Joe, the Triplets still have talent you can’t sleep on, with the talented Pargo Brothers, the tough Larry Sanders, and an electric Damien Wilkins.

With one of if not the best player in the BIG3’s short existence coming back into the fold, a mix of talented veterans, and 2019 Coach of the Year Lisa Leslie, the Triplets leap into the championship discussion and will try to win their second title.

2. 3 Headed Monsters (2022 Record: 6-2)

The 3 Headed Monsters constantly find themselves in the BIG3 Championship picture but they never seem to get over the hump. They’ve made it to at least the semi-finals in each season and made the big game in 2017 and 2021 but have nothing to show for it. The 3 Headed Monsters went 6-2 last season, despite roster changes and missing Reggie Evans.

They were able to dominate with 2021 Rookie of the Year Kevin Murphy, who came into the league and averaged 20.4 points per game. He followed that up with an even better year, winning the MVP award in 2022 on just over 25 points per game while making the most total field goals and 4-pointers. Murphy is accompanied by former league MVP and captain Rashard Lewis, who was second on the team with 11.9 points per game.

What will make this team even more dangerous this year is the return of Reggie Evans, who is one of the best all-around players in the BIG3. Head coach Reggie Theus comes back for his second year for the 3 Headed Monsters after winning the Head Coach of the Year. With the talent on this roster and the experience, the 3 Headed Monsters have a great chance to be dominant again, this time hoping to end it all with gold.

1. Trilogy (2022 Record: 6-2)

After winning the BIG3 Championship in 2021, Trilogy came back and repeated in 2022, giving them their third title in team history. They have a mix of size, athleticism, and shot-making ability that make them a dangerous team to three-peat. James White returns as captain, making him the only player on the roster to have been with the team since the league began. That also means he’s the only player to become a three-time champ.

Also returning is the dynamic duo of Earl Clark and Isaiah Briscoe, who stuffed the stat sheet both in the regular season and playoffs on their way to the championship. Clark averaged 15.3 points a game while leading the league in total rebounds (69; second with 8.6 RPG), total steals (14; first with 1.7 steals per game), and was second in blocks per game (1.3) and total blocks (11). His 14 steals broke the record for most steals in a season. With that effort, he won the Defensive Player of the Year award.

The second half of that duo, Isaiah Briscoe, was just as good as Clark. He averaged 19.1 points per game while being placing second in total points with 153. He looks to build on a tremendous 2022 campaign with his great shot-making ability and dangerous handles. Amir Johnson also had a big hand in helping Trilogy capture their third title. He is one of the best in the paint at 6’9″, 253 pounds. He used that frame to get to and attack the rim and shoot the ball at a 66% clip. Pair this with a reliable David Hawkins and a coach in Stephen Jackson who’s won the BIG3 Championship in each of his first two seasons, and you have a team with a real shot at winning their third consecutive title.

Honorable Mentions: Aliens (2022 Record: 5-3), Killer 3s (2022 Record: 5-3)

Week 1 Matchups:

Trilohy vs Enemies
Triplets vs Bivouac
Power vs 3 Headed Monsters
Aliens vs Ball Hogs
Ghost Ballers vs 3’s Company
Killers 3s vs Tri State

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Top 2023 NHL Unrestricted Free Agents

1. Patrick Kane (Right Wing)

It was announced that Patrick Kane would undergo a hip resurfacing procedure and is expected to miss 4-6 months. While teams will be in no rush to sign the 34-year-old after this news, he’s still the biggest name on the free agent market. After spending 15 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, Kane was traded to the New York Rangers at the trade deadline. Between the two teams, he tallied 21 goals with 36 assists in 73 games.

The three-time Stanley Cup Champion said he would like to stay with the Rangers, although he understands the cap situation. His agent voiced that Kane would like to play for a long time and that this procedure would certainly help that. His skill level, hockey smarts, and past success will get him plenty of interest when he’s healthy.

2. Vladimir Tarasenko (Right Wing)

Another big-name player that was traded to the Rangers at the trade deadline was Vladimir Tarasenko. He scored 18 goals and had 32 assists between St. Louis and New York, with eight of the goals and 13 of the assists coming after the big trade. Tarasenko had some key moments in New York both in the regular season and in the playoffs but the result wasn’t in his favor.

The tank is known for his lethal sniper, scoring 270 goals in his 11-year career. He’s been hampered by a series of shoulder injuries from 2019 to 2021 but he’s been feeling relatively healthy, with the exception of a hand injury that caused him to miss 10 games this past season. The blistering wrister Tarasenko still puts on display is an example of that. For that reason, he will get a healthy multi-year contract come July.

3. Ryan O’Reilly (Center)

Tarasenko wasn’t the only one traded from the St. Louis Blues at the trade deadline, as Ryan O’Reilly was sent north of the border to the Toronto Maple Leafs. He helped carry the Blues to their first Stanley Cup in franchise history in 2019 while also winning the Conn Smythe. While O’Reilly didn’t bring the same luck to Toronto as they would’ve hoped, he had a huge hand in finally getting them over the hump and past the first round, something they haven’t done prior to this year in almost 20 years.

O’Reilly tallied twelve goals and seven assists for the Blues while scoring four goals and also tallying seven assists for the Maple Leafs. In 11 playoff games with Toronto, he scored three goals and added six assists while also having 19 takeaways, which was top five in the playoffs. O’Reilly immediately slotted in and built a connection with his teammates, something Toronto has been looking for. He will be a hot commodity as one of the most sought-after unrestricted free agents on the market.

4. Dmitry Orlov (Defenseman)

Dmitry Orlov was yet another big name moved at the deadline, going from the Washington Capitals, where he spent 11 seasons, to the Boston Bruins. In 66 total games last season, he scored 7 goals and had 29 assists. He also chipped in eight assists in 7 games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The soon-to-be 32-year-old is a top-pairing defenseman, showcasing his defensive game and high hockey IQ at both ends of the rink. Orlov has also tallied more ice time per game than any free agent this year, making him even more desirable for any team. He is the best defenseman on the market and will look to get the biggest contract of any unrestricted free agent at his position.

5. Alex Killorn (Right Wing/Left Wing)

After finishing his 7-year, $4.5M AAV contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2023, Alex Killorn comes into free agency with a lot of interest surrounding him. He buried 27 goals and tallied 37 assists this past season after having 25 goals and 34 assists the previous year, both in 82 games. He is reliable and consistent, playing a huge role in the Lightning’s back-to-back Stanley Cup Championships in 2020 and 2021.

Killorn can play both right and left-wing, also making him a versatile threat that many find value in. While he set a career-high in goals and assists, he also enters free agency with the most points of any player on the market in 2023 (64). He’s played all 11 of his seasons in Tampa Bay, where he’s racked up over 800 games and with 466 points. His career year is set to give him one more solid payday with a contender come next season.

Other Unrestricted Free Agents

Tyler Bertuzzi
Michael Bunting
Matt Dumba
Adin Hill
Ivan Barbashev
Jason Zucker
Frederick Anderson
Max Domi
J.T. Compher
Max Pacioretty
Jonathan Toews
Tristan Jarry
Joonas Korpisalo
Oliver Ekman-Larsson
*Patrice Bergeron

*Has said to either re-sign with Boston or retire

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2023 College World Series Odds

Wake Forest (+450)

Coming into the NCAA Tournament, Wake Forest holds the best odds to win the 2023 College World Series. They enter the regionals as the top overall national seed after finishing the year 47-10. The main factor for their success is the dominant starting rotation, headlined by Rhett Lowder and Josh Hartle. Both have combined for a 21-1 record and over 100 strikeouts, with Lowder posting a 1.58 ERA in 15 starts while Hartle posted a 2.35 ERA in 14 starts. It goes beyond the rotation as they also have closer Camden Minacci, who’s recorded 13 saves while allowing only a .219 batting average against.

The Demon Deacons clearly have the pitching to carry them but they have some pop on offense that can help them go all the way. Brock Wilken has hit 27 home runs with 74 RBI, leading the team in both categories. He also has an OPS of 1.346. The first-baseman has a pretty good tandem going with Nick Kurtz, who has hit 23 home runs with 63 RBI while leading the team in batting average (.379), OBP (.545), SLG (.857), and OPS (1.402). These stats for both pitching and hitting tell you why they are the favorites to win it all.

LSU (+700)

To begin the season, LSU was number one in the D1Baseball rankings and was favored to win the College World Series for the majority of the season. They slipped to number seven to end the season but still hold strong odds to win it all. One of the reasons for that is that they have a dominant ace with Paul Skenes. In 15 starts, he posted a record of 10-2 with a 1.89 ERA and 167 strikeouts, averaging a whopping 16.6 K/9.

To go along with a dominant ace is an offense that provides two of the best bats in the nation. One of those is Dylan Crews, who batted .420 on the season with 15 home runs and 59 RBI. The second half of the dangerous duo is Tommy White, who was rated the number-one transfer heading into the season after coming over from NC State. He picked up right where he left off as he slashed .392/.451/.778 with 20 home runs with an outstanding 91 RBI. They also have a lot of great talent spread throughout both the infield and outfield that have played major factors in this team’s success. This lineup will be dangerous for any team to face.

Florida (+800)

While others have the pitching and offense as well, Florida might be the most complete team in the country. Starting with the pitching, the Gators have a pair of starters with 100+ strikeouts in Brandon Sprout (7-3; 4.71 ERA) and Hurston Waldrep (5-3; 4.83 ERA). They also have Jac Caglianone, who is 6-3 with a 4.14 ERA and 74 strikeouts in 63 innings. For the pitching, it goes beyond the starters, as Florida has a lot of good depth in the bullpen, having four relievers with an ERA under 4.00.

As impressive as their pitching is, the Gators’ offense has production up and down the lineup that has catapulted them to one of the best units in college baseball. They have six players with 11 or more home runs, with one of them being Caglianone, who tallied 28 home runs with 76 RBI and also, as mentioned, has been one of their best pitchers. The team finished with 119 home runs, the third-most in the country. Florida has the pitching and overall power with the bats to do a lot of damage in this tournament.

Arkansas (+1000)

Wake Forest, LSU, and Florida might’ve distanced themselves from other contenders but Arkansas isn’t a team to be taken lightly as a 2023 College World Series favorite. Like the teams ahead of them, the Razorbacks bring good starting pitching to the tournament. They have Hagen Smith, who’s 8-1 with a 2.69 ERA and 102 strikeouts in 10 starts. If they can get back ace Brady Tygart (2-1; 3.20 ERA and 26 Ks in 19.2 innings), who’s missed time with injury, Arkansas have a great 1-2 combo and staff that will be a tough task to get past.

To go along with their pitching is one of the best defenses in the country. With those two areas being the strongest of the team, opponents are going to have to try and figure out a plan to attack. While their offense doesn’t show flashy numbers like the others, they know how to get the job done. They have three players with over 10 home runs and 48 or more RBI. With their overall depth and experience, the Razorbacks are a team to watch out for.

Next Best Odds

Vanderbilt (+1500)
Virginia (+1500)
Stanford (+1600)
Tennessee (+1800)
South Carolina (+2000)
Clemson (+2000)
Oklahoma State (+3000)

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Houston Rockets Rumored Free Agency Targets

James Harden

To kick off the offseason rumors, a familiar name appeared as a potential free agency target for Houston, none other than former Rockets star James Harden. Harden spent nine seasons in Houston before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets after an ending that left a bad taste in the mouth of fans. He spent the past two seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 21 points per game with 10.7 assists and 6.1 rebounds while shooting 44.1 percent from the field.

After being eliminated in the second round, it’s being reported that Harden intends to opt out of his $35.6M player option for next season with Philly. Of all the teams, it’s expected that Harden reunites with the Rockets this offseason. The talk around the league is that he’s seeking a four-year deal. Whether or not this is just a leverage ploy to get the best deal from Philly, there are some legs to this rumor.

Dillon Brooks

Floating around before the 2022-23 season even began was the talk of the Rockets maybe pursuing Dillon Brooks come free agency. Fast forward to after the season and those rumors have picked up. In 73 games with the Memphis Grizzlies this past season, he averaged 14.3 points. While he’s very streaky and his numbers on offense are down, his offense won’t be what Houston is after.

Brooks is known for his defense, making the All-NBA Second Team on defense. He has the ability to guard anyone and take them out of the play with his strength and physicality. One thing he does a lot is trash talk. That can be one of the best parts about his game but it might be a bit too much to fans liking, especially if you don’t back it up like in the playoffs. Nonetheless, Brooks would be an interesting option for Houston with the style they are looking to instill.

Austin Reaves

After being one of the most improved players in the league in just his second year, Austin Reaves becomes a top free-agent target for the Rockets. In 64 games this past season, Reaves averaged 13 points per game while shooting over 50 percent from the floor and 39 percent from behind the arc. He got even more recognition in the playoffs, specifically in the Western Conference Finals against the Nuggets.

The Los Angeles Lakers might’ve lost but Reaves was one of the best players on the floor. In that series, he averaged 21.3 points per game with 5.3 assists while shooting 54 percent from the floor and an impressive 56 percent from three. With Reaves entering the offseason as a restricted free agent, it’s not certain he hits the open market but the Rockets certainly have the money to pressure on the Lakers to bring him back.

Cam Johnson

Like Reaves, Cam Johnson enters the offseason as a restricted free agent. In 42 games with the Nets, Johnson averaged 15.5 points per game while shooting 40 percent from three-point range. He’s performed very nicely ever since being traded to Brooklyn this past season and that includes in their first-round loss in the playoffs this season.

The 27-year-old spaces the floor pretty well on the perimeter and is nearly a 40 percent shooter from behind the arc. Johnson is also a solid defender, being able to guard multiple positions and excel on the perimeter, just like he does on offense. At one point, many thought the Rockets should’ve perused Johnson in the trade market this past season but it didn’t happen. Now, the Rockets just have to pay up if in fact he leaves Brooklyn and they certainly have the money to do so. It’s hard to imagine a better fit than Johnson on this young Houston team.

Brook Lopez

If Houston can sign both Dillon Brooks and Brook Lopez, they would be adding two All-Defensive players from last season. In this case, Lopez made First-Team All-Defensive. He was third in the league with 2.4 blocks per game and averaged 4.7 rebounds on that side of the floor. Lopez is a pesky defender and can get under the opponents’ skin. This all catapulted him to be a Defensive Player of the Year candidate. 

While he is best known on defense, Lopez has a solid offensive style to his game that any team would welcome on the floor. He averaged 15.9 points per game while bringing down 6.7 total rebounds. The 35-year-old veteran is a talented scorer and can shoot three from anywhere along the line when he needs to. The Rockets adding someone like Lopez would do wonders for their youth movement.

Patrick Beverley

This isn’t exactly a rumor put out by anyone but more so what Patrick Beverley recently said. When asked about his chances of returning to the Rockets, Beverley said “very likely.” He went on to say “that was one of my decisions when I got traded from the Lakers, but (Houston) told me ‘We don’t need you right now. You might not play. We need you to mentor young guys.’ I still wanted to play.” That is a mouthful coming from the former Rocket, who played in Houston from 2012-2017.

Beverley would be coming over for his defense and veteran leadership, something that the Rockets might need to compete. He anchors a defense with his energy and intensity while also having an entire fanbase behind him after returning for the first time since 2017. If this actually has a chance of happening, Houston would be smart to take advantage of Beverley wanting to be there.

Other Rumors?

Interest In More Veteran Point Guards?

Per Kelly Iko of the Athletic, the Rockets acquiring a veteran point guard might be their primary objective this offseason. If they become available, some more names they could be interested in are Mike Conley, Jordan Clarkson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Chris Paul. This all hinges on if they get Harden back or not and what else they do in the free-agent market.

Call For Number Four Pick

In another report from Kelly Iko of the Athletic, he suggests that there have been multiple teams expressing interest in trading for Houston’s number four overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. With there being some really good prospects at the top of the draft, the Rockets could use that pick to acquire immediate help. If they end up keeping it, the team would still be getting a pretty good player at the top of the draft.

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Top Five 2023 NBA Draft Prospects

5. Jarace Walker (PF)

With a 6’8″, 240-pound frame, Jarace Walker instantly comes into the league with the perfect size for an NBA forward. His strength and physicality play a big role on both ends of the floor. On offense, Walker has a knack for getting to the rim with multiple moves and finishing through contact. He can also use those same moves to be effective from midrange and beyond the arc, becoming an a scorer in many areas. Walker’s ability to pass is also one of his strong suits, hitting his teammates in stride off the dribble and making great outlet passes in transition.

That strength and physicality translate on defense as well, detouring opponents from getting to the paint and being able to gaurd it. Walker is a disruptive defender, using his 7-foot-2 wingspan to hover over his opponent and block shots as well as create turnovers. He is a smart defensive player and is one of the best all-around on that side of the floor. There’s a lot to like about Walker’s physical tools that can translate well into the NBA.

4. Amen Thompson (PG/SG)

The top three picks seemed to be stapled leading up to the 2023 NBA Draft but Amen Thompson has made a pretty good case to move up. Once he gets drafted, he will immediately become one of the best pure athletes in the league. Thompson’s playmaking and skillset jump off the charts. As a scorer, he is able to get to and attack the rim with his explosive first step and quick burst/blow by speed, finishing with the best of them. He can also get to the rim with his ball-handling/crossover moves.

Thompson has great instincts and basketball IQ that allow him to become a great facilitator. He sees the floor well to be a creative and decisive passer. His defensive abilities added on make him a great prospect. Thompson has active hands and the length to poke the ball away and create steals, becoming a desruptive defender for anyone. That, in turn, turns into instant offense with his ability to push the ball up the floor. While his shot might need a little improvement, Thompson’s skill makes him one of the best players in this draft.

3. Brandon Miller (SF)

Coming out of Alabama, Brandon Miller is known as one of the best shooters in this class. With his shot mechanics and release, he is a smooth mid-range shooter and has elite range to knock down threes from anywhere. Miller also can hit different kinds of shots, whether it’s in rhythm, off the dribble, or turnaround jumpers. His size at 6’9″, 200 pounds allows him to shoot over anyone with ease.

Miller also delivers in different ways with the ball, having great vision to accurately find his teammates anywhere on the court. On the defensive end, the young forward has quick lateral movement and uses his length to become an active shot-blocker. With Miller’s natural ability to score from anywhere, he becomes a valuable asset and would surprise no one if he went second overall.

2. Scoot Henderson (PG)

If it wasn’t for a generational talent at number one, Scoot Henderson would be on top. Now that just means the Hornets can get a number one pick at number two overall. His strength and athleticism stand out above the rest, making him a pure athlete at just 6’2″. His nearly 7-foot wingspan makes up for his lack of size as well.

His explosiveness on offense makes him one of the best scorers in the 2023 NBA Draft. While Henderson is a really good mid-range shooter, it would take his game to a whole other level as a shooter if he improved his three-point shot. He also combined his great scoring ability with his great passing ability, becoming a great facilitator. Scoot has room to improve on the defensive end but displays some feistiness. He will fight with Miller for the right to go number two overall.

1. Victor Wembanyama (PF/C)

Known as the best prospect since LeBron James in 2003, Victor Wembanyama is projected to change the course of a franchise for years to come and in this case, that would be the Spurs. If his 7’3″ frame wasn’t terrorizing enough, he also possesses the skills to be absolutely dominant in every aspect. Wembanyama is able to create his own offense, showing great shot-making ability while also being able to finish above the rim. He can move the ball quickly as a passer and is an elite playmaker anywhere on the floor.

If his offense wasn’t enough, his play on the other end of the court makes him the complete package. Wembanyama can be a future Defensive Player of the Year candidate. He uses his eight-foot wingspan to block shots at a high level whether it’s at the rim or away from it. The 19-year-old superstar also can knock defenders off of their path and deteriorate them from getting to the paint. He has all the tools to be one of the best players in NBA history.

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The Chicago Blackhawks hold the first overall pick, followed by the Anaheim Ducks, Columbus Blue Jackets, San Jose Sharks, and Montreal Canadiens. As we have just over a month until the festivities of draft week begin, let’s take a look at the top prospects heading into next month.

Top Five 2023 NHL Draft Prospects

5. Zach Benson (Left Wing)

What makes Zach Benson one of the top 2023 NHL Draft Prospects is his overall hockey sense and decision-making. He’s consistently involved in the play with or without the puck. He can create plays due to his stick handling and quick hands. Benson also has the ability to pass and shoot through multiple lanes without hesitation. This makes him a dangerous scoring threat, especially in areas with a lot of traffic.

Despite his 5’10”, 159-pound frame, his all-around talent and skill set makes up for the lack of size. Benson is one of the smartest overall players in this draft and will show it when the opportunity comes in the league.

4. Leo Carlsson (Center)

With the physical and mental tools possessed on ice, Leo Carlsson can be a special player in this league for years to come. The 6’3″, 194-pound center is best known as a playmaker, using his high hockey IQ and awareness to move the puck with quickness to find teammates in open space. To further elaborate on that, Carlsson is constantly able to read and find his options when needed.

He will always be a pass-first type of player but don’t sleep on his ability to score because if you do, that’s when he’s at his most dangerous. The 18-year-old is expected to go in the top five and there are a few teams that need an all-around center down the middle to create plays.

3. Matvei Michkov (Right/Left Wing)

The top 2023 NHL Draft prospects in this class are center iceman but the best winger is Matvei Michkov. Many think his size at 5’10”, 148 pounds would be a disadvantage but it’s actually the opposite. Because of his size and skills as the best stick handler in the draft, he’s able to move around and get passed defenders when needed.

Michkov is a really good playmaker and his zone entries even further his ability to create for not only himself but others. His scoring ability only adds to his overall skill and that’s what makes him a future star in this league. It would be a surprise to no one if he went second overall in this draft.

2. Adam Fantilli (Center)

As the second-best center in this draft, Adam Fantilli does it all down the middle of the ice. What people most know him for is his elite offensive prowess. He has a powerful wrist shot and can score at the net. Fantilli is able to flip a switch and create offense in just a matter of moments.

For all the offensive talk, Fantilli displays a nice all-around game. He’s not afraid to throw his body around and force turnovers by taking away lanes from opponents, making him a pretty good forechecker that also can create offense off of that. Fantilli is a complete player, making him one of the most dangerous in the NHL Draft.

1. Connor Bedard (Center)

Vision, anticipation, execution, stickhandling, shooting/skating ability, quick hands. These elite skills and more is exactly why Connor Bedard is the best prospect since Connor McDavid in 2015. Whenever on the ice, he’s always a scoring threat and can make incredible plays that few rarely make.

In the Western Hockey League this year, Bedard had an outstanding 71 goals and 72 assists for 143 points in 57 games. He also had 2.51 points per game, the highest by a WHL player since 1991. In the 2023 World Junior Championship, he tallied 23 points for Team Canada, the fourth-highest total by any player all-time in the tournament. Bedard is a generational talent who is expected to change the course of a franchise, which will be the Blackhawks, who have the first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

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Packers’ Key Dates

Week 1 @ Bears

The Jordan Love era starts with an all-historic rivalry when the Packers travel to Soldier Field to face the Chicago Bears. It will be the battle of young quarterbacks as both teams are still trying to figure out what they have under center. The Bears added a few key pieces, including their new number-one receiver in D.J. Moore to link up with Justin Fields. The Packers have a new young offense and a defense with first-round talent all over. A new chapter begins between these two teams but the Packers will try to replicate their success against the Bears with yet another QB.

Week 5 @ Raiders (MNF)

For the first time since being traded to the Las Vegas Raiders, Davante Adams will face his former team and it will be featured on Monday Night Football in Vegas. In his time with the Packers, Adams ranked second in franchise history in both receptions (669) and receiving touchdowns (73) while also ranking fourth in receiving yards (8,121). This matchup adds another layer as we get to see one of the best receivers in the game face one of the best corners in the game when Adams lines up across from Jaire Alexander. 

Week 12 @ Lions (Thanksgiving)

The Packers will play a game on Thanksgiving for the first time since 2015. This time they will be facing their NFC North rival Detriot Lions at Ford Field. The last time these two teams matched up on the holiday was in 2013. The Lions aren’t the same team as they use to be, now having a real chance to win the division and getting recognition across the league with an Opening Night matchup against the defending champs. Detriot swept Green Bay last season but the Packers come into 2023 with a different mindset and will look to re-write the last two outcomes.

Week 13 @ Chiefs (SNF)

This week 13 game against the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs is the marquee game on the schedule for the Packers. For years, everyone wanted to see Aaron Rodgers vs Patrick Mahomes but the couple times these two teams met, either one or the other couldn’t play. With Rodgers moving on, it won’t be happening with a Chiefs and Packers matchup but what will happen is Love vs Mahomes for the second time. Interestingly enough, Love started in Green Bay’s 13-7 loss in 2021 to Kansas City. This time around, Love is the starter under center and has grown by many accounts since then. This will be a huge test for the Packers signal caller.

Reaminning Games:

Week 2 @ Falcons
Week 3 vs Saints
Week 4 vs Lions (TNF)
Week 7 @ Broncos
Week 8 vs Vikings
Week 9 vs Rams
Week 10 @ Steelers
Week 11 @ Chargers
Week 14 @ Giants (MNF)
Week 15 vs Buccaneers
Week 16 @ Panthers
Week 17 @ Vikings (SNF)
Week 18 vs Bears

*Week 6 bye

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(Note: Free agents as of May 2nd; will be updated when players sign)

Top Remaining NFL Free Agents Still Available

1. Jadeveon Clowney (DE)

In 12 games last season, Jadeveon Clowney produced just 29 pressures and two sacks with the Cleveland Browns. He also only mustered a total of four quarterback hits, his lowest since his rookie season. That being said, Clowney is the first among the top remaining NFL free agents because of what he’s capable of doing when he’s at the top of his game. In 14 games with the Browns in 2021, he had 53 pressures with nine sacks and 19 quarterback hits. Despite his inconsistencies over the last several years, Clowney will get interest and help a team in need.

2. Rock Ya-Sin (CB)

An injury to end last season with the Las Vegas Raiders may be the reason why Rock Ya-Sin is still available but he’s the best player at his position left on the market. While only playing 11 games in 2022, he allowed a passer rating of only 82.6 as the closest defender (career low) and graded well in many categories throughout the season. While he might not be the top option on a team, Ya-Sin is a reliable player who is still only 26 years old. He has value on the market and will be a good fit on the right team.

(Update: Signed one-year, $6M deal with BAL)

3. Yannick Ngakoue (DE)

Over his seven-year career in the NFL, Yannick Ngakoue has been a very consistent player. He’s tallied eight or more sacks in every season, including 9.5 in 2022 with the Indianapolis Colts. The 28-year-old also had 27 pressures last season. Ngakoue is known as a pure-pass rusher, showing the ability to get in the backfield at all costs but he’s a liability when it comes to stopping the run. Despite his flaws against the ground attack, getting after the quarterback is valuable in this league and that’s why he’s still one of the best free agents available.

4. Dalton Risner (G)

Coming into free agency, Dalton Risner was ranked as one of the best offensive linemen available. As we sit here in May, he’s still on the market as now the best upfront. Risner brings versatility across the line with playing both guard spots and also has experience playing right tackle. He also brings consistency, starting in all 63 games he’s played in for the Denver Broncos the past four seasons. These two things are a recipe for success and bring a lot of value to his name.

5. Leonard Floyd (OLB)

The Los Angeles Rams released Leonard Floyd right before the free agency period. It certainly had nothing to do with his play, as he recorded nine sacks with 59 tackles (2nd-most in career), ten tackles for loss (2nd-most in career), and a career-high 22 quarterback hits in 17 games. Many thought he’d already be taken off the board early but for some reason that wasn’t the case. Now he’s one of the best free agents still available after the draft. This next wave should see him be taken by a team rather quickly.

(Update: Signed one-year, $7M deal with BUF)

Other Notable Remaining Free Agents

Robert Quinn (DE)
Frank Clark (DE) (Update: Signed a one-year worth up to $7.5M with DEN)
Marcus Peters (CB)
Ronald Darby (CB)
Shaquill Griffen (CB) (Update: Signed a one-year deal worth up to $4.5M with HOU)
Casey Heyward (CB)
Donovan Smith (OT) (Update: Signed a one-year deal worth up to $9M with KC)
Isaiah Wynn (OT) (Update: Signed one-year deal with MIA)
Cameron Fleming (OT) (Update: Signed one-year, $4M deal with DEN)
Ezekial Elliott (RB)
Kareem Hunt (RB)
Leonard Fournette (RB)
Dalvin Cook (RB)
Justin Houston (OLB)
Myles Jack (LB)
Ben Jones (C)
Teddy Bridgewater (QB)
DeAndre Hopkins (WR)
Jarvis Landry (WR)
Julio Jones (WR)

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