Issac Okoro Gone, but Lonzo Ball Gained in Cleveland Cavaliers-Chicago Bulls Trade

Cleveland – With the NBA offseason in full swing, we will begin seeing fan favorites come and go. While there have been many rumors of who we will see return to our beloved Cavaliers in this upcoming 2025-26 season, one of these rumors of Issac Okoro being traded has come true. The five year veteran with the Cavs was a forward guard who has been a big part of the team, when he was not dealing with unfortunate injuries. Okoro played 55 games this past 2024-25 regular season, with an average of 6.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. While his offense may not be impressive to some, he certainly shined in his defense.

Fans were shocked by the news as Issac Okoro is a familiar face who had been with the team for years, so it is never fun news to hear someone who has been loyal to you leave. But, with that being said, it is intriguing to see what Lonzo Ball may bring to the table, as well as the big personalities his brother, father, and himself have. The public, who knows the Ball family, knows they are a wild bunch.

As mentioned, in the trade, Cleveland gained a familiar name of Lonzo Ball. Ball has 6 NBA seasons under his belt, playing for a few different teams. He has spent time with the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Chicago Bulls. He did unfortunately miss the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons due to injuries. In his 2024-25 season, Lonzo played 35 games and averaged 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists.

All in all, once the 2025-26 season starts, all fans truly want is a healthy and winning team. After this past run for the NBA Championship was cut short in the Eastern Conference round to the Indiana Pacers, Cavs fans were yearning for more and are optimistic to have another great season.

Way too early AFC North Standings predictions

While we continue on in the summer, we’re having the typical stretch without NFL football. We won’t see a game until July 31st. That’s when we have the Hall of Fame Game between the Detroit Lions and the Los Angeles Chargers. The AFC North though will not have a preseason game until August 7 where Cincinnati and Baltimore have preseason games. During this time of the offseason, not only are the 4 AFC north teams making moves. Every team in the NFL is now making moves for the 2025 season. So here is my way too early predictions for the AFC North standings, and why I see this happening.

4. Cleveland Browns (6-11)

The Cleveland Browns had a 3-14 season in 2024, which was one of the rougher years for the franchise. Going 0-16 in 2017 has been the meme and throughout the sports world. The Cleveland Browns have been a punching bag, and we will see the same situation this season. Even with the worst QB situation in the NFL with newcomers Dillon Gabriel, Sheduer Sanders. As well as veterans Kenny Pickett, and Joe Flacco. They had a good draft. They were patient with getting Mason Graham. They waited and, in doing so, passed on Travis Hunter. I’m confident Cleveland will bounce back, but this is not going to be the year for Cleveland. They need to get the QB room figured out, and then the rest of the offense will fall into place. The Browns had a strong draft. They picked up Harold Fannin Jr., who I think is the greatest Tight End in the draft class, from Bowling Green State University. Cleveland will do their best on defense. Getting linebacker Carson Schwesinger from UCLA helped tremendously and will hopefully give the Browns defense new light. New editions and the leadership of Myles Garrett will be the face defensively. However, there is still much more work to be done. There are too many aging offensive linemen. This is similar to their Ohio counterpart, the Bengals. The QB room is unclear. Finally, the wide receiver core is uncertain. These issues will be the reasoning behind another rough year for the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, it will be a down year this season. Here are the results of all the regular season games.

Week 1: Cinncinati Bengals L

Week 2: @ Baltimore Ravens L

Week 3: vs. Green Bay Packers L

Week 4: @ Detroit Lions L

Week 5: Minnesota Vikings (London Game) W

Week 6: @ Pittsburgh Steelers L

Week 7: Miami Dolphins W

Week 8: @ New England Patriots W

Week 9: BYE

Week 10: @ New York Jets W

Week 11: Baltimore Ravens L

Week 12: @ Las Vegas Raiders L

Week 13: San Francisco 49ers L

Week 14: Tennessee Titans W

Week 15: 2 Chicago Bears W

Week 16: Buffalo Bills L

Week 17: Pittsburgh Steelers L

Week 18: @ Cinncinati Bengals L

3. Cincinnati Bengals (9-8)

The Cincinnati Bengals will repeat their 9-8 stretch that happened last year in 2024. Times have been rough for the Bengals, ever since their Cinderella run back in the 2021 season. Joe Burrow, the Louisiana State quarterback, was taken 1st overall in the 2020 draft. He is the star of this franchise. He is going in the right direction with LSU teammate Ja’Marr Chase. What is difficult for the Bengals, however, is the absence of a plan for the offensive line. Without it, these weapons can not be effectively utilized. Tee Higgins is another notable figure in the Bengals Offense. He further adds to the idea that Cincinnati has it nearly figured out. However, they are still struggling to find an offensive line identity. Let’s look at the defensive side of the ball because Cincinnati is making advancements towards that side of the game. Keven Winston jr. is recovering from a torn ACL at this time and this will be a damper to defense. If I’m a Bengals fan, I should be looking forward to seeing Oren Burks. He is a linebacker who will be the starter for the season, and some will overlook him. What could be seen, however, are the Bengals getting a good chance here at a veteran. He can be a role model for the stars. He can improve their team chemistry by guiding them. These stars already know their way around the NFL. as for the draft. Although they have made some positive contributions to the franchise, the Cincinnati Bengals will still have an off year.

Week 1: @ Cleveland Browns W

Week 2: Jacksonville Jaguars W

Week 3: @ Minnesota Vikings L

Week 4: @ Denver Broncos W

Week 5: Detroit Lions L

Week 6: @ Green Bay Packers L

Week 7: Pittsburgh Steelers L

Week 8: New York Jets W

Week 9: Chicago Bears W

Week 10: BYE

Week 11: @ Pittsburgh Steelers L

Week 12: New England Patriots W

Week 13: @ Baltimore Ravens L

Week 14: @ Buffalo Bills L

Week 15: Baltimore Ravens L

Week 16: @ Miami Dolphins W

Week 17: Arizona Cardinals W

Week 18: Cleveland Browns W

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)

I am a Steelers fan. I feel like we’re all beating a dead horse here. I bet you can already tell what is going to happen. Aaron Rodgers will not live up to the expectations set in place, Mike Tomlin will finish the season above .500 and last but not least. We will lose in the Wild Card. We have not won a playoff game since I was in 3rd grade back in 2016 (I start my first semester of college in August). Let’s keep the preseason pessimism to a low and look towards the improvements for 2025. I believe Will Howard will be a strong quarterback for Pittsburgh this season, and he has the credentials for it. He had over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns with a national championship playing the toughest college teams you can. This breakout season is nothing to sneeze at, and what makes it so great is now he has confidence. Now will he (and should he) start right out of the gate foe week 1 against the Jets? No, but what I do like is he has veteran guidance and a good position of receivers and a running back in Jaylen Warren if things go poorly. Additionally, our defense is in a strong position. Veterans TJ Watt and Cam Heyward are locked in to the Steelers for the foreseeable future. What got us worried was the capability of Alex Highsmith leaving, but these rumors seem to have died down. The Steelers actively engaged in the draft. They picked up Jack Sawyer. This move simply makes the defense more intimidating in terms of what will be the factor for the Steelers. While the Pittsburgh defense will be their strength; the black and gold brigade will fail to win, if they fail to rebuild the offense.

Week 1: @ New York Jets W

Week 2: Seattle Seahawks W

Week 3: @ New England Patriots L

Week 4: Minnesota Vikings W

Week 5: BYE

Week 6: Cleveland Browns W

Week 7: @ Cincinnati Bengals W

Week 8: Green Bay Packers L

Week 9: Indianapolis Colts L

Week 10: @ Las Angeles Charges W

Week 11: Cincinnati Bengals W

Week 12: @ Chicago Bears W

Week 13: Buffalo Bills L

Week 14: @ Baltimore Ravens L

Week 15: Miami Dolphins W

Week 16: @ Detroit Lions L

Week 17: @ Cleveland Browns W

Week 18: Baltimore Ravens L

1. Baltimore Ravens (14-3)

I think it’s clear that Baltimore will repeat as AFC North champions this year. Lamar Jackson is a top 3 quarterback in the AFC and top 5 in the NFL. Mark Andrews will be a go-ahead target for Jackson when he needs to throw. Receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman will also be key targets. Roquan Smith is unbelievable in terms of raw ability, as well as Kyle Hamilton at safety. What should be noted is their strength of schedule. Baltimore has to play Buffalo Week 1, Detroit Week 3, and Kansas City in week 4. To say this is a tough way to start your regular season would be an understatement. We are talking about Baltimore, and we already should know this one detail. They will grow in adversity and even if the season doesn’t start their way. The flock will end the 2025 season their way. Baltimore is set for the future. We see this in the way they drafted in Green Bay, adding fuel to the fire of this claim. Taking two cornerbacks aids them defensively for the future, as well as the fact of them offensive lineman. The O-Line may seem mundane. Baltimore now has the ability to develop guys. These players will aid the offense and keep Lamar protected. We observed this being one of the main issues. If Lamar Jackson can run more often, this will spell trouble for defenses throughout the NFL. It will especially be troublesome in the AFC North where defenses have tried and mostly struggled to stop him. The Baltimore Ravens have built significant support. Therefore, they will reign on top of the AFC North for the 3rd year in a row.

Week 1: @ Buffalo Bills L

Week 2: Cleveland Browns W

Week 3: Detroit Lions L

Week 4: @ Kansas City L

Week 5: Houston Texans W

Week 6: Las Angeles Rams W

Week 7: BYE

Week 8: Chicago Bears W

Week 9: @ Miami Dolphins W

Week 10: @ Minnesota Vikings W

Week 11: @ Cleveland Browns W

Week 12: New York Jets W

Week 13: Cincinnati Bengals W

Week 14 Pittsburgh Steelers W

Week 15: @ Cincinnati Bengals W

Week 16: New England Patriots W

Week 17: @ Green Bay Packers W

Week 18: @ Pittsburgh Steelers W

There you have it, my way too early predictions for the AFC North in the 2025 NFL season. If you would like me to do the other divisions in the NFL, please let me know. I hope you enjoyed this article. Please let me know if you have any comments. Share what you would change down below.

Will NIL Deals Be the Reason Student Athletes Can’t Transfer Anymore?

Wisconsin – When thinking of controversial topics in sports, transfers and the transfer portal is becoming a big one. So to add even more controversy such as tampering, things can get tricky fast.

Xavier Lucas, college football player, has seemingly broken his contract with Wisconsin to go to Miami, so Wisconsin has taken legal actions against the university. Lucas just signed a contract with Wisconsin in December, and school officials claim that representatives from Miami visited Lucas’ home and offered him money to switch schools before the 2 year contract came to an end, when Wisconsin refused to put his name into the portal.

Now the question is if the NIL, name-image-likeness, deals can be the reason a student athlete gets held back at their schools and it does not have to be a deal where the university pays them.

One of Wisconsin’s big reasons for filing the suit is that they believe that the one of the only ways to keep making sure the NCAA sport scene can stay a level playing, is if all of the universities can respect and uphold each other’s contracts that they have. Without schools respecting each other, things could turn into chaos quickly with money being thrown at student athletes all around NCAA.

Of course there are a lot of opinions, and personally being a sport management major and business minor, we have researched the effects of the transfer portal. To me, it is something I think needs some regulation. You see athletes go to 2, 3, 4, and even larger numbers of different schools during their time at college. This not only affects their education, but it can affect their mental health. While your mental health can be a reason for wanting to switch schools, I think it is clear that these young adults just rush into making college decisions based solely on money and not thinking about what they truly want.

I am sure this will not be the last time we see more headlines such as this one in the near future.

Contracts, Contracts, and Even More Contracts!

Cleveland, OH – We know that the offseason is the prime time where teams make deals, trades, and sign new and returning players. This is no different for the Cleveland Browns who are always making roster moves and trying to develop and change their game plan. This month, the team has made a number of signings, in hopes to build that perfect, winning, team.

First up was former Fresno State wide receiver, Jaelen Gill. Gill was originally signed by the Los Angeles Chargers and then became a free agent. Last season, he spent about five weeks on the Browns’ practice squad.

Next was quarterback Dillon Gabrie who was one of the Browns’ picks in this year’s draft. Gabrie played for Central Florida, Oklahoma, and Oregon. In 2024, he was named a Heisman Trophy Finalist after a career record of 3,857 yards and 30 touchdowns.

The next player signed was offensive tackle, Jackson Barton. He was originally a 7th round pick from the Indianapolis Colts in the 2019 draft. He also played 13 games with the Las Vegas Raiders, and 4 with the Arizona Cardinals.

Finally, the most recent sign from the Cleveland Browns was tight end, Sal Cannella. He was signed as a free agent by the Miami Dolphins in 2021. He has also played with the Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cannella most recently played in the UFL, United Football League, with the Arlington Renegades and he led the league in receiving touchdowns.

Durant’s Options Are Limited, but He Can Still Win Another Ring

Cleveland, OH – It’s been over seven years since Kevin Durant last won an NBA Championship. Several factors have contributed to this drought, but his time in Phoenix has been particularly stalled by the team’s heavy financial commitment to just three players. Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker account for nearly 70% of the Suns’ total salary cap. This wouldn’t be an issue if the roster gelled and played cohesive basketball. Unfortunately, the Suns haven’t meshed, and they can’t adjust due to the large salaries and Bradley Beal’s no-trade clause. With only one year left on Durant’s contract and at age 36, it’s likely he’ll be traded to a championship contender to finish his career.

Like the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Suns are stuck in the second apron, with a total cap of $228,464,502, about $26 million over the second-apron threshold. The rules for teams in the second apron trying to pull off a trade are: they can’t trade first-round picks seven years out, can’t do sign-and-trades, can’t send cash in deals, and must match salaries to move players. Ironically, these rules were designed to prevent superteams like the 2017-2019 Golden State Warriors, who once had a starting five of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, DeMarcus Cousins, and, yes, Kevin Durant. In a way, Durant is navigating rules inspired by his own move from Oklahoma City to Golden State, which many fans called a “superteam.”

Before I list two possible trades, I want to note how variable Durant’s trade value is. On one hand, he’s a 15-time All-Star, two-time NBA champion, and two-time Finals MVP on two of the greatest teams in NBA history. On the other hand, at 36, he’s at an age where injuries can become a concern. Plus, the second apron limits Phoenix’s trade options. Ultimately, Durant’s trade value hinges on whether a front office prioritizes short-term wins over long-term risks. With that in mind, let’s look at two potential trades involving teams rumored to be in the mix.

As with the Cavs article I wrote last week, I’ll start with a trade proposed by NBA insiders Chris Herring, Zach Kram, Dave McMenamin, Kevin Pelton, and André Snellings. This deal sends Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. In return, the Suns receive Dillon Brooks, Reed Sheppard, Cam Whitmore, Jock Landale, the No. 10 pick in 2025, and a 2027 first-round pick (via Phoenix). The Suns would get two former first-round picks, Sheppard and Whitmore, who saw limited minutes this year due to Houston’s deep roster. Whitmore has shown flashes of potential, and Sheppard, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, displayed elite three-point shooting and great patience as a guard at Kentucky. Brooks brings toughness and three-and-D versatility to a Phoenix team that needs it, while Landale adds a solid veteran presence. The biggest asset for Phoenix is regaining their 2027 first-round pick, which offers flexibility if they choose to retool which might require them to suffer in the win column for a couple of years. For Houston, this trade addresses their offensive struggles after a first-round playoff exit to Golden State. Durant, with his size, shooting, handles, and finishing ability, is one of the toughest players to guard in the league. Houston also sheds players who don’t fit their rotation. I like this trade for both sides, but I do think Phoenix might want one extra pick in this trade.

The next trade is one I came up with, involves the Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns. The Suns will trade Kevin Durant to Miami, and in return, they will receive Andrew Wiggins, Duncan Robinson, Haywood Highsmith, a 2027 Miami first-round pick swap, a 2029 Miami Heat unprotected first-round pick, and a 2030 unprotected first-round pick from Miami. Miami gets a star player to pair with their other two stars, Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro. For Phoenix, they get a couple of wings who can shoot and play some defense. More importantly, this trade gives them two first-round draft picks starting the year Kevin Durant turns 40 years old. This is a trade for Phoenix to make if they want to retool this team and start a rebuild. As for Miami, they should do this if their mindset is to go all-in since the East looks wide open next year. Overall, I don’t think this trade gets done, but if the Houston deal falls apart, there aren’t many other teams that would make sense for KD.

Kevin Durant’s legacy is complex when fans debate his all-time ranking. However, if he pushes Phoenix to trade him to one of these destinations, he could get that coveted ring that isn’t tainted with discourse on its merit.

Will the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs Stay, or Will They Go?

Kansas City, MO – There is a debate happening amongst those in Kansas City currently. With the Royals and Chiefs contracts with their respective stadiums being up in a few years they have been spending a lot of time thinking about what would be the most logical next step for them. We know when sports teams relocate it causes chaos, but it also does good things for those teams and new cities financial wise.

So, in hopes to keep the teams where they are. The Missouri governor signed an offer which was approved by the Missouri lawmakers for hundreds of millions of dollars to go to the teams in hopes to persuade them. Of course this sparked controversy among the fellow lawmakers and residents, because that is a lot of money to offer these teams, not even knowing whether they will stay or go as the contracts do not end until 2031.

As we have witnessed, team moves can be so controversial such as our beloved Cleveland Browns. The Browns plans of moving from their lakefront stadium to a brand new, dome included, stadium in Brookpark, OH following the end of the 2028 NFL season caused a lot of debate and mixed emotions among fans and residents in Cleveland, OH. The revenue that teams generate for their cities is huge and can seriously affect them if taken away if there are no other big revenues.

While the teams have not made their decisions yet, it is believed that they will stay in Kansas City, but that is not an official decision.

Who Will Win the 2025 Stanley Cup? Will There be a Repeat, or Will We See a New Winner?

Edmonton, CA – The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are continuing at full speed tonight with Game 5 between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers taking place at Rogers Place in Edmonton. With a home ice advantage, the Oilers will have to hope the cheers from their fans can keep them ahead of Florida. The series is currently tied at two games a piece, meaning fans will earn some extra hockey with at least needing a Game 6 after tonight’s matchup.

Examining the teams in this series, you see veterans and newcomers among both teams. You see strong defense, strong goaltending, and an even stronger passion for the game. Beginning with the coaches, they each have their comparative advantages and disadvantages. Paul Maurice, the Panthers head coach, has 25 seasons of experience under his belt, working behind the bench with numerous teams. He is a well known record setter having set numerous records for number of wins and records. As for the Oilers head coach, Kris Knoblauch, he has a little less experience, but still found success. He has coached numerous teams as well, also leading them to championship victories including recently in 2023 leading the Hartford Wolf Pack to a Calder Cup win.

Next we examine the immense talent each team has on the ice. Edmonton’s most known player, Connor “McJesus” McDavid has been with the team since he was drafted in 2015. He has contributed so much to them and has led them close to victory in recent years. He has had multiple triple digit point seasons, showing off his personal skill and how he also thrives as a team player. Of course, there are lots of opinions of him, but you cannot deny the pure talent he bleeds. Another notable Oilers player is Leon Draisaitl. He has been with the team since being drafted in 2014. Again, this player shows his talent in every game he plays, and he is a key to success for them during this series. As for the Panthers two very notable players are Sam Bennet and Matthew Tkachuk. Only being with the team for a handful of seasons each, they have proven their worth and shown they are huge assets to the team. They are not just skilled, but they have the reputation of being hard hitters and taking care of business physically. Another player to note is someone who was acquired in a trade in early March of 2025, Brad Marchand. The trade was so out of the blue as Marchand has spent his entire career, which began in 2009, with the Boston Bruins. He was a huge player for them as he had good stick handles and knows how to get the puck into the net. This trade was, however, a great win for the Panthers as so far Marchand has scored many goals and set up many great plays in his short time with the team. He has been an extremely huge key to success during this Panthers playoff run.

Finally, the goaltending, which has been nothing short of crazy for these two teams in their playoff runs. Beginning with Edmonton, they have been using Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard. Skinner has only been in the NHL for five seasons, but he has shown his talent. While he is young and still has much to learn, he has stepped his game up for the Oilers during this playoff run securing numerous shutouts and clutching up games for them. Pickard has been in the NHL much longer, but has had significantly less playing time during this playoff run for the Oilers. He has a wide variety of talent as well and that is seen when he is on the ice in the crease. As for the Panthers, they have been mainly using Sergei Bobrovsky. Bobrovsky has been in the league since 2010, and has been noticeably amazing. While he has not had the best luck winning championships until last season, that has never stopped him from playing some of the best games you can watch. When he is not making unreal saves, he is watching the game unfold in front of him.

Coming into this series you were either someone who dreaded it, or was excited for the rematch to occur. With having the reputations of two of the most disliked teams in the NHL, there was no in between for fans. Last year’s Stanley Cup Playoffs went to 7 games with the Florida Panthers taking it all for the first time in the franchise’s history. It was a historical win for the team and many of its players with it being their first Stanley Cup, such as veteran goaltender, Sergei Bobrovsky. This off season, the Edmonton Oilers look to gain their franchises’ 6th Stanley cup, while the Florida Panthers hope to gain their second, back-to-back.

Pittsburgh’s defense is changed because of Aaron Rodgers.

After my beloved Pittsburgh Steelers pulled the checkbook out. They signed future hall of fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers for a 1 year $13.65 Million contract (with $10 Million guaranteed). One thing was made very clear to me after hearing this news. The Steelers are not as defense-driven as they have been in the past. Now do I think that this signing undermines the entire core of their team? No, I do not think this, but I do think this will affect the defense. Whether or not this will be a positive or negative shift, we will have to get closer to the preseason. What I can see now though is the defense, and there are a lot of positive adjustments being made there. Pittsburgh has always been a “defense wins championships” type of franchise. Even looking all the way back to 1969, when arguably the most known player in franchise history was drafted. Defensive Tackle Charles “Mean Joe” Greene was drafted. He has since been the leading member of the history behind the Steelers defense. From the Steel Curtain, to Blitzburgh, to the 2000s crew led by Joey Porter. Pittsburgh has had a longstanding tradition in Defense. Therefore let’s analyze this current era of defense and how it will look moving forward.

Let’s begin with an overview of how the defense looks heading into the 2025 year. For starters, Derrick Harmon looks to be a promising rookie. Steelers Defensive line coach Karl Dunbar has named him the starter. Other notable key figures in this roster are linebackers TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. The Eagles’ rumored $68 Million contract offer for Highsmith in a trade proposal is alarming news for us Steelers fans. Our defense relies on him. He forms the perfect duo with Watt. Together, they keep the defense as the core of our required gameplan to success. Brandon Graham who is retiring makes the landscape that much more that Highsmith is traded. While his contract runs through 2027, one can only imagine if he will be moved to a different team. I mention this because the Steelers’ salary cap is affected by Rodgers. They will need to reorganize the defensive checkbook. Their defense has many loyal players. These include Cam Heyward and TJ Watt who seem unlikely to leave for a higher paycheck. That doesn’t mean everyone will apply to this logic, and even then Watt and Heyward will need a reasonable extension. As of now, Watt’s current deal will expire at the end of the 2025 season. Heyward’s will expire after 2026. It seems like a long time away. We need to be aware that Watt is looking for a contract similar to Myles Garrett.

Throughout the Aaron Rodgers news hitting the NFL world by storm, with some thinking this news was almost inevitable. It finally came true after two months of speculation. Now the Black and Gold will have some new challenges for 2025. TJ Watt and Cam Heyward are already established leaders. They need to mentor the defense. Let the offense do their thing. While this seems like it will work in a perfect world, we must acknowledge an important and difficult reality. Watt will want to be paid and while it is certainly deserved, it may affect the offense. Hopefully this influences Rodgers to retire after one season. That way, they can pay TJ in 2026. If this is how things are expected to end, why did they even sign Aaron initially? My theory is to have someone with more experience. This person can hopefully mentor Will Howard. Will Howard was a superstar at the NCAA level. Rodgers signing to Pittsburgh is certainly a “brand name” quarterback. We’ll have to see if his play can live up to the Rodgers image. The defense will certainly be affected because of how a team operates. The actions of the offense affect defense, and the opposite. With that being said, TJ Watt is the leader of the steelers and practically the new face of the franchise. Thus, no matter how the offense plays this season, it will come down to the Steelers defense. They must go out there. They need to play the best football week in and week out. For the purpose of continuing on the tradition and legacy of Pittsburgh Steelers football.

Release-Edwards’ Offense Dominates En Route to 18U Tim Lally Memorial Diamond League Tournament Title: Full Championships Recap

Lakewood, OH- According to head coach Jaret Edwards, Release Baseball is an organization that plays the sport “the right way.” That brand of America’s pastime was more than enough to secure Release Edwards’ first tournament win of 2025 as they knocked off #2 Ohio Mavericks 11-2 and #4 NMC Reitenbach 12-0 in the championship game.

In the first semi-finals, #1 Ohio Elite had the task of taking down #NMC Reitenbach. The odds were stacked against Reitenbach to even make it to the field of four. Heading into the final pool play game, they were sitting fifth with a record of 1-1-1. NMC Carevic held down the final spot with a 2-1-1 record. The tie breaker in pool play is the number of runs allowed. Carevic had allowed 22 through their four games, while Reitenbach had allowed 19 heading into their final game against the Midwest Stars. However, Reitenbach was able to get the job done as they took down the Stars 16-1. With two fewer runs allowed, Reitenbach made the final four.

Ohio Elite had their own adversity to face entering the final four. Only three of their actual players were available for the championship rounds. Carrollton stars Hunter Allison, Landon James, Garrett Broadwater, and Issac Husted all had their end-of-season banquet. Some of the pitchers, including Dom Marchett, were not available to pitch again. Add in injuries to the mix, and Aaron Moses still being in the state tournament with University School, the rampage of the lineup is complete. Braeden Deutsch, Spencer Siedlecki, and AJ Likowski were the three OEB 18U players who played. Brady Bowen, formerly of Wooster and Akron baseball commit, stepped in from the start this weekend, who could be classified as a fourth member of the crew.

Players from OEB Andrews and OEB Aukerman got the call-up from the 16U/17U division for the semi-finals to fill out the numbers. Additionally, siblings Chase Deutsch (Hudson ’28), and Brock Bowen (Wooster ’27) helped OEB out with some solid innings starting in left field and third base, respectively.

In the first inning, Braylon McBride of NMC was called out due to interference as he clipped Siedlecki’s outstretched glove. Initially, the decision was an error that gave McBride second base. Luca Reyes left less to the imagination as he struck out the two-hitter Owen Courtney. Back-to-back walks put two runners on for Quinton Albert. The power hitter wasted no time, hitting a two-run double. Ryan Wilkinson would bring Albert in from second with an RBI single in the following at-bat. Reyes was able to settle things down in the end as he struck out Izaak Matthews to end the top of the first.

Ohio Elite was able to get their leadoff man on by way of a second base error by McBride. B. Deutsch lined out to second, and B. Bowen hit into a fielder’s choice. With two down, Siedlecki drew a walk to keep the inning going. However, NMC’s starting pitcher Luka Pagura was able to strike out 1st team all-Ohio selection Tucker Webb to retire the side. Through one, NMC Reitenbach led 3-0.

NMC would load the bases to begin the second inning with three different methods. Brady Eckert reached on an error, Murphy Kelley walked, and Faris Thabata hit a bunt single. McBride would hit a sac fly to make it 4-0 while Courtney hit an RBI single. Just like the first go around, Pagura and Ja’Von Clayton walked back-to-back. This time, Clayton’s walk brought in the sixth run. One final sacrifice fly, this time by Wilkinson, would score the seventh run of the game for OEB. At the bottom of the inning, Pagura retired the #1 seed in order.

Reitenbach was not done yet by any stretch, as the bases would be loaded with one out after a leadoff strikeout. Courtney would walk to bring in the eighth run. Ohio Elite was able to get the final two outs with a strikeout and a lineout. However, a passed ball saw the ninth run score. After Pagura struck out C. Deutsch, he was pulled to save his arm for the championship game. Matthews came in and retired Br. Bowen and Likowski to retire the side.

Just like the prior two innings, NMC would load the bases quickly with a pair of walks and a single. Eckert brought in the 10th run for NMC on a sacrifice. Kelley walked to load the bases again for Thabata. He was able to bring in the 11th run as he reached on an E5. McBride would hit his second sac fly of the game to bring in the 12th run. Courtney added a second RBI single to score the 13th run. To end the game, OEB went in order again. This sealed the 13-0 win for #4 NMC Reitenbach. What makes this win more impressive is that Pagura and Matthews combined for a four-inning no-hitter. Additionally, including pinch hitters, all 12 players that hit for NMC would reach safely at least once.

You can watch Game 1 by clicking this link: https://www.youtube.com/live/YImyaSxytIQ?si=6xvDSMEv805RfMqE

In the second game, the Ohio Mavericks were able to strike first as back-to-back errors brought in their leadoff hitter, Ty Roediger, who began the bottom of the first with a walk. Despite the tough start, Release would quickly steal the spotlight. Write State commit Grant Lashutka, Bo Davis, and Jack Laux walked while Reece Stillings hit a sacrifice fly to score Lashutka. With the score 1-1, Zander Triplett destroyed a baseball by sending it well over the left field fence. In one swing of the bat, Release took a strong 4-1 lead. Jackson Anthony followed up the three-run shot with a solo shot of his own. Heading into the bottom of the second, Release led 5-1.

The Mavericks responded by applying some pressure to the Release defense by loading the bases as Casey Robinson singled while CJ Santagata and Charlie Capretta walked. However, Davis made up for the error he committed in the first inning and recorded a routine putout to retire the side. Through two innings, Release led 5-1.

In the third inning, Release’s leadoff man, Dan Miller, reached by way of a walk. With one down, Lashutka flew out to left field, but Miller was too far off the bag at second to get back in time. Thus, the 7-4 double play retired the side. In a more traditional fashion, the Mavericks went in order. The fourth inning had slightly more substance with Laux singling for Release, but the other six batters were retired with ease.

In the fifth, Release was able to slam the door shut on the #2 seed. Triplett began the frame with a leadoff double. Anthony reached by way of a walk to put two on for Grady Falkenstein. He was able to barrel a baseball into the outfield to put two more runs on the board. This two-RBI double was followed up by a routine flyout for the first out of the inning. Ryan Stoops singled in the following at-bat, placing runners at the corners. Stoops drew a throw over from Robinson. This pickoff move gave Falkenstein the time to take home. He was also helped out by a high throw to second from first. Stoops was able to cruise into third as a result. Lashutka brought in the final run of the inning on a sacrifice fly, making it 9-1. The Mavericks’ offense came up empty in the bottom of the frame, thus, they needed some runs in the sixth to avoid the run rule.

Release was given another break in the basepath as a failed fielder’s choice put runners at second and third. The bases would load as Stillings got hit by a pitch. Triplett would put Release into double figures with a sacrifice fly. The #3 seed would score their 11th and final run of the game on a wild throw into the outfield. With two outs, the Mavericks were able to score their second run of the game on a single that turned into an outfield error. Finally, relief pitcher Luke Doss forced a popout to Lashutka at shortstop, ending the game with Release getting the 11-2 win. Jack DeGeeter threw six great innings for Release, striking out 5 batters and allowing a few hits, depending on which scorebook is the most accurate.

You can watch Game 2 by clicking this link: https://www.youtube.com/live/Br_5Sqq7ch4?si=0e7rTg5VKKvFDOqu

The championship game featured the two lower seeds in #3 Release and #4 NMC Reitenbach. As expected, Pagura would get the start for Reitenbach again. This was a chance for redemption for NMC as they lost to a different release squad a year ago in the 16U Tim Lally Memorial Diamond League Tournament Championship Game at Hudson. Courtney hit an early double, but that would be NMC’s only hit of the game. They had two other base runners due to hard 90’s.

Release’s offense found a whole host of creative ways to score. Overall, they would score 13 runs on six hits. However, past balls, free passes, and two perfectly executed squeeze plays in a row in the third did the damage. On the mound, Nick Hart got the start, throwing two innings while recording three strikeouts. Lashutka would come on to close the game out, getting two innings of work with one strikeout under his belt. Overall, this was the definition of a true team win by Release as they took home the title 12-0.

You can watch Game 3 by clicking this link: https://www.youtube.com/live/8NjtvaCP2ek?si=D1Ul7zC7LBteKNYy

After the game, Triplett said,

“It feels good (to win). We just played good, played really hard, did the little things right, and didn’t have any bad innings.”

The rising senior at Louisville had a total statline of 5 Hits, 2 Doubles, 1 3 Run HR, 1 Walk, 6 RBI’s across the two games. This is nothing new for the Triplett name as Zander’s father was a standout player for Canton Central Catholic a while back.

“He’s been a big part of my life, just helping me out,” Triplett remarked. “He’s my hitting coach and taught me how to play baseball.”

Coach Edwards shared the same sentiment as Triplett as he said,

“These guys played really hard. We’re at our best baseball when we throw a lot of strikes, we play good defense, and we run hard.”

Edwards is an assistant coach at Lakewood High School during the Spring and has been able to grow under Grant Graves, the Rangers’ head coach. Lakewood won their first district title since 1992 this season as they defeated Warren G Harding 1-0. In the end, they bowed out in the Regional Finals 7-0.

Release-Andrews (5-1) is back in action this weekend for their second tournament at Denison University in Granville, Ohio. They have matchups with Team Elite Midwest 17U, Marucci Spikes Showcase 17U, and USA Prime Indiana-Indy 17U in pool play. These games can be followed along on GameChanger by searching for Release 17U (Edwards).

NMC Reitenbach (3-2-1) has four scheduled games this coming weekend. First off, it’s a Friday morning battle with Bo Jackson Elite- 17U Harris in Hilliard, Ohio. Bo Jackson Elite-17U Follina, Golden Gloves Elite 17U, and Bo Jackson Elite-18U Withrow, round out the weekend with all games taking place at Hilliard Darby High School.

The Ohio Mavericks (3-1-1) have Michigan MR, 17U Tripletown Aces, Chronister 17U, and Indy Titans Caplinger 17U in Sandusky at Sports Force Park this weekend. Finally, Ohio Elite (4-1) has a tournament this weekend against opponents to be determined.

The Second Apron Is Brutal, but the Cavs Can Still Improve

Employees of Brilliant Electric Sign Company work on the large banner hanging on the walkway between the garage and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Cleveland Cavaliers playoff banners have been popping up this week as the Cavs prepare for their first round NBA playoff series starting on Saturday, April 15, 2023, against the New York Knicks.. David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

Cleveland, OH- When the buzzer sounded to mark the end of game 5 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Semifinals, it was a somber moment, to say the least, for Cavs fans. A 60 plus win season, coupled with the third best net rating of the NBA, left a lot to be desired. Once again, bringing to the table another offseason of mock trades due to a postseason disappointment. However, unlike most offseasons, this will be the most challenging trade market for Cavs GM Koby Altman to navigate, as the Cavs are over the 2nd apron.

The threshold for this apron is $207.8 million dollars, and the Cavs payroll is currently $220.7 million, according to Spotrac. This apron was specifically set to stop teams like the Cavs from spending big on 3 or 4 players and then filling out the rest of the roster with a mid-level exception player and vets who were looking to take a pay cut in order to win a ring. This new rule stops teams constructing similar rotations through rules like not being able to trade a first round pick seven years into the future, no sign-and-trades, not being able to send cash in trades, and finally needing to match salaries in order to trade players. There are a few more restrictions, but the rules outlined above are the biggest impediments when it comes to the Cavs being able to improve their team via trades. So, with the elephant out of the room, let’s look at two Cavs trades.

The first trade is probably the most well known, and originated from Cleveland.com Cavs writer Chris Fedor. Fedor suggested that the Cavs could send All-Star Point Guard Darius Garland to the Orlando Magic in return for two former first round picks in Point Guard Jalen Suggs and forward Tristan da Silva. As for the Magic, I would think they would do this trade, since the team noticeably lacked offensive production, so getting Garland would fix that. I don’t think the Cavaliers would make this trade, but they should strongly consider it. Suggs brings elite defensive skills, evidenced by his All-NBA Defensive Second Team honor, while da Silva, despite limited production in his rookie season, was a standout shooter at Colorado. The Cavs could benefit greatly by adding a great defender and some three-point shooting.

The next trade originates from myself and involves the Cavs and the Lakers. The Cavs would trade Jarrett Allen and Isaac Okoro to the Los Angeles Lakers and in return receive Rui Hachimura, Dorian Finney-Smith, a 2028 Los Angeles unprotected 1st round pick, and a 2030 Los Angeles Lakers swap(best with the Cavs) first round pick. The Lakers are in desperate need of a center, and Okoro could fill in the void left by trading Finney-Smith. As for the Cavs, they pick up Finney-Smith, a three-and-D wing that is capable of starting, and they pick up Hachimura, who is an efficient scoring 6 ‘8 wing. Also, this trade would move the Cavs out of the second apron to the much more favorable 1st apron. Out of all trades I’ve seen mocked to the Cavs, I believe this is the one where both teams have a chance of saying yes(since most mock trades usually have the fans’ home team overwhelmingly winning the trade).

If the Cavs want to go far in the playoffs, then they have to stay healthy (something that hasn’t gone their way), but they also should listen to trade calls that could potentially stop the early playoff exits.