We are one day from the NBA trading deadline, and here is the latest floating around the league:
Knicks
The Knicks and Hornets struck up a deal today that did not involve the long rumored Kemba Walker situation. The Knicks sent disgruntled, young Center Willy Hernangomez to the Hornets in exchange for Johnny O'Bryant and a pair of 2nd round picks. The most significant part of this deal really involves the picks for the Knicks, as Hernangomez really does not add much to the Hornets other than what they already have available on the roster now.
The Knicks are also trying to deal Kyle O'Quinn and Courtney Lee at this hour, and are still trying to find a taker on Joakim Noah, to no avail.
Grizzlies
The list has increased from four to seven on teams offering deals for Tyreke Evans, who has been shut down since 1/29 waiting on a deal to take place. The Celtics and Nuggets still feel like front runners on any negotiations, and the Heat have really dug into the process as well.
Thunder
Add Oklahoma City to the list of teams looking at Tyreke Evans, but the Thunder, who look like almost a lock to add some talent, are also involved in talks involving Tony Allen, who the Bulls just acquired from New Orleans, and Rodney Hood of Utah. The Thunder are also in talks with Atlanta involving Marco Belinelli as well. Along with Belinelli, the Thunder are also discussing Duane Dedmon and Ersan Ilyasova of the Hawks, and that seems like the most likely dance partner at this hour. They have also called Orlando on Jonathon Simmons to fill a hole at the wing, but Simmons is not being dealt.
The Thunder could also very well be active in the buyout/release market next week with Allen, Jameer Nelson, and Joe Johnson of the Suns.
Celtics
The Celtics, who are very much involved on Tyreke Evans, and have already picked up Greg Monroe, are looking to possible deal Marcus Smart, for the right price. Lou Williams was someone who they had conferred about, and Williams just signed a three year extension with the Clippers. The Celtics have stated that they would not trade Smart for short term rental help, but with Williams now under contract, could that possibly emerge as a sign and trade deal? Stay tuned on that one. One team inquiring on Smart is Oklahoma City, as the Thunder is coming off as desperate to add some more talent to push them through on their playoff run.
Hawks
With talks ongoing about just about everyone on the roster, and Belinelli being discussed with Oklahoma City, the 76ers have also engaged in talks with the Hawks about acquiring him. He is now being held out of games at this point, so expect a deal to be imminent.
Clippers
Lou Williams signed a three year extension with the Clippers, and most teams are now backing away, as it appears that he will be staying in LA for the next couple of seasons, at least. Still do not count anything out now that he is under contract, because that part of his deal makes him more attractive to certain teams in the playoff push with assets to deal, including Boston. It's a long shot, but until that bell rings, anything could still be on the table.
More news as it becomes available!
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
Tuesday, February 6, 2018
College Football 2018: Best Non Conference Games
With our still very early look at the 2018 season ongoing, we take a look at the non conference games that catch our eyes next fall. Here are what we think are the best match ups out of conference for next season:
Clemson at Texas A&M, 9/8
With Jimbo Fisher having moved on to coach the Aggies from Florida State, one would think that he would be able to ditch the challenge of having Clemson on the schedule. Apparently, that was not a requisite thing for taking the job. The Aggies ought to have enough firepower to take on Clemson at home, and Clemson should be on upset alert.
Florida State at Notre Dame, 11/10
It may not be the early 90s, but this game still has plenty of appeal, especially with Brian Kelly trying to prove that he has the Irish back on track, and Willie Taggart trying to show that he won't need two full seasons to get FSU back on track.
Florida at Florida State, 11/24
With Dan Mullen coming back to Florida, and Taggart taking over at FSU, this huge rivalry should be interesting, as both teams will hopefully be pushing for bigger things.
Louisville vs. Alabama @ Orlando, 9/1
Imagine Kenny Rogers singing "you picked a fine time to leave me, Lamar"...How will Louisville bounce back against the defending national champs after two letdown seasons and the departure of the best player in team history? Alabama may be a 21 point favorite to open, but Louisville is an enigma.
Miami vs. LSU @ Arlington, 9/2
Miami is rising again under Mark Richt, but LSU will need to run with the Hurricanes man for man, or else we could see the fire Coach O chants early on next fall.
West Virginia at NC State 9/15
Two of the better QBs in the nation returned in Will Grier of WVU, and Ryan Finley of NC State. This should be an offensive showdown in Raleigh.
Notre Dame at Virginia Tech, 10/6
Virginia Tech could be a division contender in the ACC race, and Notre Dame will be trying to show the nation that they will not slide again. This will be a massive test for both sides.
Arizona at Houston, 9/8
Sumlin Bowl should be an offensive showcase for both teams, and both teams have a ton to prove in 2018.
Memphis at Missouri, 10/20
Memphis loses Riley Ferguson, and Missouri returns Drew Lock. Neither offense should slow down all that much, but the first team to 70 in this one could be the winner.
Navy vs. Army, 12/8
This game, long on sap and short on actual meaning in football terms, finally means something again. Army has won two in a row, and Navy will be looking to stop the bleeding.
Iowa State at Iowa, 9/8
The Cyclones lose a ton of talent from a very tough minded football team, but if they beat Iowa early, they could put a scare into the Big 12.
Mississippi State at Kansas State, 9/8
This could, and likely will be the final season for Bill Snyder at K State. Joe Moorhead will look to fire up the MSU offense with Nick Fitzgerald, and could be a dark horse team in the SEC West.
UCLA at Oklahoma, 9/8
Two of the best offensive minds in college football history collide when Lincoln Riley hosts Chip Kelly's Bruins.
Boise State at Oklahoma State, 9/15
Oklahoma State loses a ton of talent heading into 2018, and Boise State loves to pull upsets in these scenarios. OSU should be concerned.
TCU vs. Ohio State @ Arlington 9/15
Both will be breaking in new QBs, and both teams could easily be favored here. If TCU can pull out the win, they send a big message.
Texas at Maryland, 9/1
Remember that Maryland beat Texas in Austin last season, and they were fully healthy, unlike the rest of their season. Both should be plenty healthy at Maryland this season. Another Maryland win would start to turn some heads away from Tom Herman, and towards DJ Durkin.
USC at Texas, 9/15
The Trojans need a big road win early to prove that they will not be in a sort of rebuilding phase. A win at Texas would be within reach.
West Virginia vs. Tennessee @ Charlotte 9/1
I am already disgusted at how many neutral site games will be played in 2018, but here is another one. Jeremy Pruitt will be on full display against a team that will test the defensive will of the Vols away from Knoxville.
Michigan at Notre Dame, 9/1
I don't care if they are up or down, this match is always a classic for me. This should be our first look at Shea Patterson as QB of the Wolverines.
Missouri at Purdue, 9/15
Purdue is rising in the Big 10, and a home win over an also resurgent Missouri would be huge for the Boilermakers, but a road win for the Tigers here would be equally as big.
Stanford at Notre Dame, 9/29
This is another classic match that makes you feel that old school college football is still alive and well. Don't forget that Stanford returns Brice Love at RB.
Notre Dame at USC, 11/24
Again, old school football at its best. Never a dull moment in this series.
Toledo at Fresno State, 9/29
Both teams should compete for conference titles in the MAC and Mountain West in 2018, making this one of the best G5 matches in the nation.
UNLV at Arkansas State, 9/22
UNLV needs to make a run at a MWC division title in 2018 to keep Tony Sanchez in his job, and they have the talent to make that run with Armani Rogers at QB and Lex Thomas at RB. Arkansas State has the best QB you have never heard of in Justice Hansen.
BYU at Arizona, 9/1
All Cougar fans eyes will be on Tucson to kick off the season. If BYU pushes, and maybe wins, Kilane Sitake is safer, if not...
Auburn vs. Washington @ Atlanta, 9/1
This is yet another game that should have been a home and home rather than a single neutral site event, but still should be a battle of teams of top 10 capabilities. Both teams have eyes set on the playoffs.
Clemson at Texas A&M, 9/8
With Jimbo Fisher having moved on to coach the Aggies from Florida State, one would think that he would be able to ditch the challenge of having Clemson on the schedule. Apparently, that was not a requisite thing for taking the job. The Aggies ought to have enough firepower to take on Clemson at home, and Clemson should be on upset alert.
Florida State at Notre Dame, 11/10
It may not be the early 90s, but this game still has plenty of appeal, especially with Brian Kelly trying to prove that he has the Irish back on track, and Willie Taggart trying to show that he won't need two full seasons to get FSU back on track.
Florida at Florida State, 11/24
With Dan Mullen coming back to Florida, and Taggart taking over at FSU, this huge rivalry should be interesting, as both teams will hopefully be pushing for bigger things.
Louisville vs. Alabama @ Orlando, 9/1
Imagine Kenny Rogers singing "you picked a fine time to leave me, Lamar"...How will Louisville bounce back against the defending national champs after two letdown seasons and the departure of the best player in team history? Alabama may be a 21 point favorite to open, but Louisville is an enigma.
Miami vs. LSU @ Arlington, 9/2
Miami is rising again under Mark Richt, but LSU will need to run with the Hurricanes man for man, or else we could see the fire Coach O chants early on next fall.
West Virginia at NC State 9/15
Two of the better QBs in the nation returned in Will Grier of WVU, and Ryan Finley of NC State. This should be an offensive showdown in Raleigh.
Notre Dame at Virginia Tech, 10/6
Virginia Tech could be a division contender in the ACC race, and Notre Dame will be trying to show the nation that they will not slide again. This will be a massive test for both sides.
Arizona at Houston, 9/8
Sumlin Bowl should be an offensive showcase for both teams, and both teams have a ton to prove in 2018.
Memphis at Missouri, 10/20
Memphis loses Riley Ferguson, and Missouri returns Drew Lock. Neither offense should slow down all that much, but the first team to 70 in this one could be the winner.
Navy vs. Army, 12/8
This game, long on sap and short on actual meaning in football terms, finally means something again. Army has won two in a row, and Navy will be looking to stop the bleeding.
Iowa State at Iowa, 9/8
The Cyclones lose a ton of talent from a very tough minded football team, but if they beat Iowa early, they could put a scare into the Big 12.
Mississippi State at Kansas State, 9/8
This could, and likely will be the final season for Bill Snyder at K State. Joe Moorhead will look to fire up the MSU offense with Nick Fitzgerald, and could be a dark horse team in the SEC West.
UCLA at Oklahoma, 9/8
Two of the best offensive minds in college football history collide when Lincoln Riley hosts Chip Kelly's Bruins.
Boise State at Oklahoma State, 9/15
Oklahoma State loses a ton of talent heading into 2018, and Boise State loves to pull upsets in these scenarios. OSU should be concerned.
TCU vs. Ohio State @ Arlington 9/15
Both will be breaking in new QBs, and both teams could easily be favored here. If TCU can pull out the win, they send a big message.
Texas at Maryland, 9/1
Remember that Maryland beat Texas in Austin last season, and they were fully healthy, unlike the rest of their season. Both should be plenty healthy at Maryland this season. Another Maryland win would start to turn some heads away from Tom Herman, and towards DJ Durkin.
USC at Texas, 9/15
The Trojans need a big road win early to prove that they will not be in a sort of rebuilding phase. A win at Texas would be within reach.
West Virginia vs. Tennessee @ Charlotte 9/1
I am already disgusted at how many neutral site games will be played in 2018, but here is another one. Jeremy Pruitt will be on full display against a team that will test the defensive will of the Vols away from Knoxville.
Michigan at Notre Dame, 9/1
I don't care if they are up or down, this match is always a classic for me. This should be our first look at Shea Patterson as QB of the Wolverines.
Missouri at Purdue, 9/15
Purdue is rising in the Big 10, and a home win over an also resurgent Missouri would be huge for the Boilermakers, but a road win for the Tigers here would be equally as big.
Stanford at Notre Dame, 9/29
This is another classic match that makes you feel that old school college football is still alive and well. Don't forget that Stanford returns Brice Love at RB.
Notre Dame at USC, 11/24
Again, old school football at its best. Never a dull moment in this series.
Toledo at Fresno State, 9/29
Both teams should compete for conference titles in the MAC and Mountain West in 2018, making this one of the best G5 matches in the nation.
UNLV at Arkansas State, 9/22
UNLV needs to make a run at a MWC division title in 2018 to keep Tony Sanchez in his job, and they have the talent to make that run with Armani Rogers at QB and Lex Thomas at RB. Arkansas State has the best QB you have never heard of in Justice Hansen.
BYU at Arizona, 9/1
All Cougar fans eyes will be on Tucson to kick off the season. If BYU pushes, and maybe wins, Kilane Sitake is safer, if not...
Auburn vs. Washington @ Atlanta, 9/1
This is yet another game that should have been a home and home rather than a single neutral site event, but still should be a battle of teams of top 10 capabilities. Both teams have eyes set on the playoffs.
NBA Trade Rumor Roundup
There are lots of internal gears working as we head into the NBA trade deadline, which is Thursday. Here is what we know as we head into the end of the trading period:
Eastern Conference
Cleveland
The Cavs are still interested in buying, and are still locked into conversations with Sacramento about George Hill, which is really the only deal publicly out there. The Cavs are not interested in the $19 million hit they take by acquiring Hill, and are still demanding that the Kings take on Iman Shumpert and JR Smith's contracts. There has been virtually no movement on this in two weeks, so it's getting less likely that this particular deal is getting done without some late push.
Also worth noting, the Cavs have, in fact, shown that they are willing to deal Brooklyn's unprotected first rounder in a deal, but it has to be the right deal.
Boston
After signing Greg Monroe last week, the Celtics are still in the mood to add some depth for a playoff push. That said, if they cannot find the right deal, they will wait around to cherry pick from the buy out crowd after the deadline has past. They are doing some work on both Lou Williams of the Clippers and Tyreke Evans of Memphis, and are currently dangling Marcus Smart, but they want a 1st round pick for Smart, a price few are willing to pay. Look for the Celtics to stand pat, and look more at that buyout crowd next week, but, again, anything is possible.
Atlanta
Almost everyone is up for a deal, with very little being kept off of the table by the Hawks this period. The Hawks want expiring deals and draft picks in exchange, something that someone like Cleveland should look at, as the Cavs have those pieces to deal. Look for Atlanta to be very active over the next 48 hours.
Orlando
Only Aaron Gordon and Jonathon Isaac are off of the table, for now. Again, the Magic, who are pushing back and forth with Atlanta for the worst record in the league, would be interested in expiring deals and picks, but are they an attractive dealer in pieces other than those who are untouchable? That has to be the question.
Charlotte
Despite protestations by Michael Jordan, Kemba Walker is still very much in play for trade, but the Hornets will want any trade partner to take on some of their bad deals as well, and that is stumping most conversations. It is very possible at this point that Walker remains a Hornet until the off-season, when a new GM may be hired.
Brooklyn
The Nets are willing to deal, and should be, but the pieces they have are limited, at best, after dealing their unprotected pick away. They would be willing to take on bad, expiring deals, but would need some draft picks to come along with any of that. The Nets did a deal today, sending Tyler Zeller to Milwaukee for a 2019 2nd round pick and Rashad Vaughn.
Chicago
The Bulls picked up a small truckload of expendable ppieces when they dealt Nikola Murtic to the Pelicans this week, in acquiring Omer Asik, Tony Allen, and Jameer Nelson. None of those pieces looks to be in Chicago after the season, and some, or all, could be gone next week.
New York
The Knicks are actively trying to deal Joakim Noah, but there seems to be a lack of suitors in any potential deal for him. He has been away from the team after a confrontation with head coach Jeff Hornacek.
Western Conference
Denver
The Nuggets are in a bind financially for next season, and even though they are in a position to grab a lower seed in the playoffs, they are still looking to get ahead of their cap situation for next season. Emmanuel Mudiay and Wilson Chandler are deals they would like to unload now, rather than later, and they are looking to clear cap space.
Oklahoma City
The Thunder is still looking to replace the presence of Andre Roberson, and are looking for long wing help. They have looked at a number of possibilities, and will be active on the phone for the next 48 hours.
Memphis
Despite being called by several teams about Marc Gasol, the offers have been short, and it looks like he will stay put. Tyreke Evans has been shut down with expectations being that he will be dealt, but again, nothing has come in terms of concrete on that, but they seem confident that they will have a deal for him in place by Thursday. Consider Memphis to be a major seller, and if they can deal other pieces as well, they will. Boston, Philadelphia, and Denver are the front runners today to land Evans, and Miami is engaging now as well, according to ESPN.
LA Clippers
The Clippers are sellers, but only if they can find some pieces in exchange to appease the fan base and follow through on not tanking out right now. As the Clippers sail into irrelevance this season, it would be best, in my opinion, to tank out anyway and get the best package available for the likes of Lou Williams, DeAndre Jordan, and even newly acquired Avery Bradley, as all three pieces have extreme value on the market right now. Portland, Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Washington all have interest in Jordan, Cleveland and Boston specifically have interest in Williams, and Bradley would have several suitors as well, according to multiple sources. Washington could involve Marcin Gortat in talks with the Clippers for Jordan.
Portland
The Blazers are better than most expected this season, but they still have looming cap space issues that they need to resolve before next season, or they risk sliding backwards. Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum are not going anywhere, but McCollum could go for the right price. Maurice Harkless, Myers Leonard, and Jusuf Nurkic could all be dealt, but extra pieces would need to come with them, as all three could be buyout victims in any done deal. DeAndre Jordan talks could be heating up between now and Thursday.
Phoenix
The Suns are interested in parting with veterans Jared Dudley and Tyson Chandler, as they are looking to clear out veteran cap space. They have already dumped Greg Monroe, so they are serious about getting light on the cap.
Houston
The Rockets are considered a buyer at this point, but they are not willing to part with very much, as they are loathe to create any shock waves in team chemistry at this point. They don't have a ton of value in draft picks to deal, so they may be quiet heading into Thursday.
Utah
The Jazz do not want to pay Rodney Hood after this season, so he is someone they are shopping aggressively, but they are not having much success in doing so. Gobert and Mitchell are untouchable in any deals, but Utah needs some added depth and talent, and Hood may not bring much.
LA Lakers
News today that the Lakers are shifting their focus from the 2018 FA class to 2019 is a massive alarm bell. It would seem that Magic Johnson has completely bungled his pursuit of LeBron James, Paul George, and others for 2018, and will not have nearly the cap space to chase any of those individuals, but, as was said today, he may not have the fluidity to do any major shopping in 2019 either. In short, the Lakers are much more of a mess than anyone wants to admit, and they may be stuck in this spot for the next two to three years until they can unload their bad deals. Here is the rub on that...nobody in the league is in a hurry to help them out.
New Orleans
The Pelicans solidified their playoff push by acquiring Nikola Murtic from the Bulls this week for Omer Asik, Tony Allen, Jameer Nelson, and a protected 2018 first rounder. With that deal in motion, the Pelicans may be willing to ride out the rest of the deadline out, and could focus on buyouts instead to solidify their roster next week, especially with Boogie Cousins being lost for the season.
More news as it becomes available in the next 48 hours!
Eastern Conference
Cleveland
The Cavs are still interested in buying, and are still locked into conversations with Sacramento about George Hill, which is really the only deal publicly out there. The Cavs are not interested in the $19 million hit they take by acquiring Hill, and are still demanding that the Kings take on Iman Shumpert and JR Smith's contracts. There has been virtually no movement on this in two weeks, so it's getting less likely that this particular deal is getting done without some late push.
Also worth noting, the Cavs have, in fact, shown that they are willing to deal Brooklyn's unprotected first rounder in a deal, but it has to be the right deal.
Boston
After signing Greg Monroe last week, the Celtics are still in the mood to add some depth for a playoff push. That said, if they cannot find the right deal, they will wait around to cherry pick from the buy out crowd after the deadline has past. They are doing some work on both Lou Williams of the Clippers and Tyreke Evans of Memphis, and are currently dangling Marcus Smart, but they want a 1st round pick for Smart, a price few are willing to pay. Look for the Celtics to stand pat, and look more at that buyout crowd next week, but, again, anything is possible.
Atlanta
Almost everyone is up for a deal, with very little being kept off of the table by the Hawks this period. The Hawks want expiring deals and draft picks in exchange, something that someone like Cleveland should look at, as the Cavs have those pieces to deal. Look for Atlanta to be very active over the next 48 hours.
Orlando
Only Aaron Gordon and Jonathon Isaac are off of the table, for now. Again, the Magic, who are pushing back and forth with Atlanta for the worst record in the league, would be interested in expiring deals and picks, but are they an attractive dealer in pieces other than those who are untouchable? That has to be the question.
Charlotte
Despite protestations by Michael Jordan, Kemba Walker is still very much in play for trade, but the Hornets will want any trade partner to take on some of their bad deals as well, and that is stumping most conversations. It is very possible at this point that Walker remains a Hornet until the off-season, when a new GM may be hired.
Brooklyn
The Nets are willing to deal, and should be, but the pieces they have are limited, at best, after dealing their unprotected pick away. They would be willing to take on bad, expiring deals, but would need some draft picks to come along with any of that. The Nets did a deal today, sending Tyler Zeller to Milwaukee for a 2019 2nd round pick and Rashad Vaughn.
Chicago
The Bulls picked up a small truckload of expendable ppieces when they dealt Nikola Murtic to the Pelicans this week, in acquiring Omer Asik, Tony Allen, and Jameer Nelson. None of those pieces looks to be in Chicago after the season, and some, or all, could be gone next week.
New York
The Knicks are actively trying to deal Joakim Noah, but there seems to be a lack of suitors in any potential deal for him. He has been away from the team after a confrontation with head coach Jeff Hornacek.
Western Conference
Denver
The Nuggets are in a bind financially for next season, and even though they are in a position to grab a lower seed in the playoffs, they are still looking to get ahead of their cap situation for next season. Emmanuel Mudiay and Wilson Chandler are deals they would like to unload now, rather than later, and they are looking to clear cap space.
Oklahoma City
The Thunder is still looking to replace the presence of Andre Roberson, and are looking for long wing help. They have looked at a number of possibilities, and will be active on the phone for the next 48 hours.
Memphis
Despite being called by several teams about Marc Gasol, the offers have been short, and it looks like he will stay put. Tyreke Evans has been shut down with expectations being that he will be dealt, but again, nothing has come in terms of concrete on that, but they seem confident that they will have a deal for him in place by Thursday. Consider Memphis to be a major seller, and if they can deal other pieces as well, they will. Boston, Philadelphia, and Denver are the front runners today to land Evans, and Miami is engaging now as well, according to ESPN.
LA Clippers
The Clippers are sellers, but only if they can find some pieces in exchange to appease the fan base and follow through on not tanking out right now. As the Clippers sail into irrelevance this season, it would be best, in my opinion, to tank out anyway and get the best package available for the likes of Lou Williams, DeAndre Jordan, and even newly acquired Avery Bradley, as all three pieces have extreme value on the market right now. Portland, Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Washington all have interest in Jordan, Cleveland and Boston specifically have interest in Williams, and Bradley would have several suitors as well, according to multiple sources. Washington could involve Marcin Gortat in talks with the Clippers for Jordan.
Portland
The Blazers are better than most expected this season, but they still have looming cap space issues that they need to resolve before next season, or they risk sliding backwards. Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum are not going anywhere, but McCollum could go for the right price. Maurice Harkless, Myers Leonard, and Jusuf Nurkic could all be dealt, but extra pieces would need to come with them, as all three could be buyout victims in any done deal. DeAndre Jordan talks could be heating up between now and Thursday.
Phoenix
The Suns are interested in parting with veterans Jared Dudley and Tyson Chandler, as they are looking to clear out veteran cap space. They have already dumped Greg Monroe, so they are serious about getting light on the cap.
Houston
The Rockets are considered a buyer at this point, but they are not willing to part with very much, as they are loathe to create any shock waves in team chemistry at this point. They don't have a ton of value in draft picks to deal, so they may be quiet heading into Thursday.
Utah
The Jazz do not want to pay Rodney Hood after this season, so he is someone they are shopping aggressively, but they are not having much success in doing so. Gobert and Mitchell are untouchable in any deals, but Utah needs some added depth and talent, and Hood may not bring much.
LA Lakers
News today that the Lakers are shifting their focus from the 2018 FA class to 2019 is a massive alarm bell. It would seem that Magic Johnson has completely bungled his pursuit of LeBron James, Paul George, and others for 2018, and will not have nearly the cap space to chase any of those individuals, but, as was said today, he may not have the fluidity to do any major shopping in 2019 either. In short, the Lakers are much more of a mess than anyone wants to admit, and they may be stuck in this spot for the next two to three years until they can unload their bad deals. Here is the rub on that...nobody in the league is in a hurry to help them out.
New Orleans
The Pelicans solidified their playoff push by acquiring Nikola Murtic from the Bulls this week for Omer Asik, Tony Allen, Jameer Nelson, and a protected 2018 first rounder. With that deal in motion, the Pelicans may be willing to ride out the rest of the deadline out, and could focus on buyouts instead to solidify their roster next week, especially with Boogie Cousins being lost for the season.
More news as it becomes available in the next 48 hours!
Monday, February 5, 2018
College Football 2018: Top 15 Returning Receivers
We continue to look at our very early previews of the 2018 college football season by analyzing who the best returning players are across the game. Here are our picks for the top receivers returning next fall:
Anthony Johnson, Buffalo
Johnson was the best receiver that you probably never heard of in 2017, as he finished second overall to only James Washington of Oklahoma State. Johnson caught 76 passes on the season for 1356 yards and he caught 14 TD passes on the year. Johnson averaged 17.84 yards per catch, and 113 yards per game, and will likely be a driving force in pushing Buffalo into the conversation in the MAC East race, along with QB Tyree Jackson, in 2018.
AJ Brown, Ole Miss
Missed in all of the Ole Miss drama in 2017 was the play of Brown, who finished the season with 75 receptions for 1252 yards and 11 scores. He averaged 16.69 yards per catch, and 104.3 yards per game. Brown should be rated as the top returning receiver in the SEC in 2018.
Jaylen Smith, Louisville
Normally missed among the video game like accomplishments of Lamar Jackson at QB were the performances of those around him, and that includes Smith, who often made Jackson look better than he sometimes was. Smith caught 60 passes, but was a big play hit, averaging 16.33 yards per reception on 880 yards receiving in just 10 games played. He scored seven times in eight games, and if healthy in 2018, he will be a hug target for whomever ends up replacing Jackson at QB.
Penny Hart, Georgia State
I often get critiqued for my love of G5 players, but if a guy can play, he can play, and that counts for Hart, who was probably the best player for the Panthers in 2017, and that was even a version of him that was not always completely healthy. Hart, along with Johnson (listed above) are two of the most important players returning to G5 programs this fall. Hart caught 74 passes for 1121 yards and eight scores, and did that despite missing a game.
Diontae Johnson, Toledo
Logan Woodside is gone at QB, which makes Johnson even more important for the Rockets in 2018. He is a huge threat in the passing game for Toledo, as he caught 74 passes last season for 1278 yards and 13 scores, while averaging 17.27 yards per catch. With Woodside gone, and a new QB taking over, Johnson becomes even more important for that transition.
Denzel Mims, Baylor
Mims, like most others on this list, would be getting a heck of a lot more attention if he were playing anywhere other than his current locale. Baylor football is a mess of their own making, but Mims helps blunt that sharp edge of a dwindling power. He averaged 17.82 yards per catch on 61 receptions for 1087 yards last season, and needs to play a huge part in what needs to be a resurgent Bears offense in 2018.
Tre'Quan Smith, UCF
Scott Frost and the staff may have moved on, but along with his QB McKenzie Milton, Smith returns to keep the party going in Orlando. Smith averaged 19.85 yards per catch last season while rolling up 1171 yards and 13 TDs. If he can get close to those numbers again next season, UCF is in for another sweet ride.
Stanley Morgan, Jr., Nebraska
If Scott Forst can find a QB early in the process, Morgan may be the biggest benefactor of the coaching change at Nebraska. Morgan is an under utilized big play threat, and this offense should only help his numbers grow. As is, Morgan caught 10 TD passes last season with an inconsistent and turnover prone QB. Imagine if the QB position actually balances out under the new regime?
Courtland Sutton, SMU
Sutton could have left, but decided to stick around under new head coach Sonny Dykes, and that could have an even bigger impact on Sutton's overall numbers. Already one of the more explosive receivers in the nation, Sutton, who caught 12 TD passes last fall, could be a national leader in 2018 in the new system, and with more consistent play from QB Ben Hicks.
David Sills V, West Virginia
Sills averaged over 16 yards per reception for the Mountaineers in 2017, and finished tied for the national lead in TD receptions with 18. With Will Grier returning at QB, the Mountaineers should have one of the most explosive offenses in the nation after a season in which they far under performed to expectations.
James Gardner, Miami (Ohio)
The Red Hawks are not a very good football team, but Gardner gave it all he had in 2017, as he rolled up 927 yards on just 47 receptions last season with 11 TDs. If he had more consistent QB play, or if he were just about anywhere else, he would be a national star with his big play ability.
N'Keal Harry, Arizona State
There is no doubt that Arizona State made an awful coaching hire in the off-season, and that the Sun Devils may be in a bid for last place in the PAC-12 South, but they return the most talented receiver in the conference for 2018 in Harry, who is a big time player with top shelf skills. He likely leaves ASU after 2018 just to get away from the mess that has become this program.
KeeSean Johnson, Fresno State
The resurgence in one season under Jeff Tedford at Fresno State is a story we all know very well by now, but a key to that resurgence, at least offensively speaking, was the play of Johnson, who exploded with 77 receptions for 1013 yards and eight scores. With his return in 2018, Fresno State should be on par to get close to matching what they pulled off in 2017.
Marquise Brown, Oklahoma
Brown was a huge hit for the Sooners in 2017, as he caught 57 passes for 1095 yards and seven scores, while averaging over 19 yards per reception. With Baker Mayfield heading on to the draft, and presumably Kyler Murray taking over at QB, Brown will be a huge part of the success of that transition process.
Andy Isabella, U Mass
U Mass showed some signs of life in the second half of last season, and with Andrew Ford returning at QB, Mark Whipple may finally be in a position to kick the Minutemen into gear as an independent in 2018. Isabella will be a huge target, as all everything TE Adam Breneman has moved on. Isabella is no slouch in his own right, as he caught 65 passes for 1020 yards last season, averaging 15.69 yards per catch and scoring 10 times.
Anthony Johnson, Buffalo
Johnson was the best receiver that you probably never heard of in 2017, as he finished second overall to only James Washington of Oklahoma State. Johnson caught 76 passes on the season for 1356 yards and he caught 14 TD passes on the year. Johnson averaged 17.84 yards per catch, and 113 yards per game, and will likely be a driving force in pushing Buffalo into the conversation in the MAC East race, along with QB Tyree Jackson, in 2018.
AJ Brown, Ole Miss
Missed in all of the Ole Miss drama in 2017 was the play of Brown, who finished the season with 75 receptions for 1252 yards and 11 scores. He averaged 16.69 yards per catch, and 104.3 yards per game. Brown should be rated as the top returning receiver in the SEC in 2018.
Jaylen Smith, Louisville
Normally missed among the video game like accomplishments of Lamar Jackson at QB were the performances of those around him, and that includes Smith, who often made Jackson look better than he sometimes was. Smith caught 60 passes, but was a big play hit, averaging 16.33 yards per reception on 880 yards receiving in just 10 games played. He scored seven times in eight games, and if healthy in 2018, he will be a hug target for whomever ends up replacing Jackson at QB.
Penny Hart, Georgia State
I often get critiqued for my love of G5 players, but if a guy can play, he can play, and that counts for Hart, who was probably the best player for the Panthers in 2017, and that was even a version of him that was not always completely healthy. Hart, along with Johnson (listed above) are two of the most important players returning to G5 programs this fall. Hart caught 74 passes for 1121 yards and eight scores, and did that despite missing a game.
Diontae Johnson, Toledo
Logan Woodside is gone at QB, which makes Johnson even more important for the Rockets in 2018. He is a huge threat in the passing game for Toledo, as he caught 74 passes last season for 1278 yards and 13 scores, while averaging 17.27 yards per catch. With Woodside gone, and a new QB taking over, Johnson becomes even more important for that transition.
Denzel Mims, Baylor
Mims, like most others on this list, would be getting a heck of a lot more attention if he were playing anywhere other than his current locale. Baylor football is a mess of their own making, but Mims helps blunt that sharp edge of a dwindling power. He averaged 17.82 yards per catch on 61 receptions for 1087 yards last season, and needs to play a huge part in what needs to be a resurgent Bears offense in 2018.
Tre'Quan Smith, UCF
Scott Frost and the staff may have moved on, but along with his QB McKenzie Milton, Smith returns to keep the party going in Orlando. Smith averaged 19.85 yards per catch last season while rolling up 1171 yards and 13 TDs. If he can get close to those numbers again next season, UCF is in for another sweet ride.
Stanley Morgan, Jr., Nebraska
If Scott Forst can find a QB early in the process, Morgan may be the biggest benefactor of the coaching change at Nebraska. Morgan is an under utilized big play threat, and this offense should only help his numbers grow. As is, Morgan caught 10 TD passes last season with an inconsistent and turnover prone QB. Imagine if the QB position actually balances out under the new regime?
Courtland Sutton, SMU
Sutton could have left, but decided to stick around under new head coach Sonny Dykes, and that could have an even bigger impact on Sutton's overall numbers. Already one of the more explosive receivers in the nation, Sutton, who caught 12 TD passes last fall, could be a national leader in 2018 in the new system, and with more consistent play from QB Ben Hicks.
David Sills V, West Virginia
Sills averaged over 16 yards per reception for the Mountaineers in 2017, and finished tied for the national lead in TD receptions with 18. With Will Grier returning at QB, the Mountaineers should have one of the most explosive offenses in the nation after a season in which they far under performed to expectations.
James Gardner, Miami (Ohio)
The Red Hawks are not a very good football team, but Gardner gave it all he had in 2017, as he rolled up 927 yards on just 47 receptions last season with 11 TDs. If he had more consistent QB play, or if he were just about anywhere else, he would be a national star with his big play ability.
N'Keal Harry, Arizona State
There is no doubt that Arizona State made an awful coaching hire in the off-season, and that the Sun Devils may be in a bid for last place in the PAC-12 South, but they return the most talented receiver in the conference for 2018 in Harry, who is a big time player with top shelf skills. He likely leaves ASU after 2018 just to get away from the mess that has become this program.
KeeSean Johnson, Fresno State
The resurgence in one season under Jeff Tedford at Fresno State is a story we all know very well by now, but a key to that resurgence, at least offensively speaking, was the play of Johnson, who exploded with 77 receptions for 1013 yards and eight scores. With his return in 2018, Fresno State should be on par to get close to matching what they pulled off in 2017.
Marquise Brown, Oklahoma
Brown was a huge hit for the Sooners in 2017, as he caught 57 passes for 1095 yards and seven scores, while averaging over 19 yards per reception. With Baker Mayfield heading on to the draft, and presumably Kyler Murray taking over at QB, Brown will be a huge part of the success of that transition process.
Andy Isabella, U Mass
U Mass showed some signs of life in the second half of last season, and with Andrew Ford returning at QB, Mark Whipple may finally be in a position to kick the Minutemen into gear as an independent in 2018. Isabella will be a huge target, as all everything TE Adam Breneman has moved on. Isabella is no slouch in his own right, as he caught 65 passes for 1020 yards last season, averaging 15.69 yards per catch and scoring 10 times.
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