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Articles by Kobe Raphael
OK3 to be disassembled, Russell Westbrook leading the exodus?
Before the present NBA season, the Oklahoma City Thunder exerted tremendous effort to assemble their own super-team. The blockbuster moves began in July, 2017, when they traded for Paul George. A couple of months later, in September, the Oklahoma City Thunder welcomed Carmelo Anthony (also via trade). Four days after that, the franchise rewarded reigning league MVP, Russell Westbrook, a lucrative deal. With the trio on the roster, the expectations skyrocketed for the Thunder.
NBA cellar dweller to take risk, attempt to trade for Spurs' Kawhi Leonard?
Many believe that the time of Kawhi Leonard with the San Antonio Spurs is nearing its unfortunate end. There were already reports linking him to bigger market teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and the Philadelphia 76ers. It would be exciting to see this happen, with Kawhi Leonard donning the purple and gold of his hometown squad. Or him tearing it up in the NBA's Eastern Conference with the Knicks or Sixers.
Spurs want Brandon Ingram from Lakers for Kawhi Leonard
The San Antonio Spurs are doing their best to save a strained relationship with Kawhi Leonard. However, it might be too late. A recent report stated that the forward's camp wants him out of Alamo City to play for a "bigger market" squad. Three teams were on the list. These were the Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and the Philadelphia 76ers. Among them, it is the Los Angeles Lakers who are regulars in NBA trade rumors involving Kawhi Leonard.
NBA Rumors: Boston Celtics to add former Cavaliers forward as injuries pile up
The #Boston Celtics are back in #NBA Rumors not because of Anthony Davis [VIDEO] or any player they are eyeing when the offseason arrives. Boston is in the rumor mill due to the injury bug that has plagued its roster. At the moment, there are four key players on the sideline for the Boston Celtics. These are Kyrie Irving, Gordon Hayward, Marcus Smart, and Daniel Theis. Irving is expected to miss 3-6 weeks after undergoing a minor procedure to address soreness in his left knee.
NBA Rumors: Former league MVP Derrick Rose set to join another powerhouse squad
In the latest #NBA Rumors, it seems like there is at least one team that wants to give #Derrick Rose another shot. The ex-NBA MVP is available on the market after getting waived by the Utah Jazz. Utah acquired Rose in a three-team trade [VIDEO] with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Sacramento Kings. According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the organization eyeing Derrick Rose is the #Washington Wizards.
Lakers star rookie Lonzo Ball not returning until after the 2018 All-Star break?
The Los Angeles #Lakers are on a roll. They are currently on a four-game winning streak and have won 12 of their last 16 outings. During this stretch, they have defeated legitimate playoff contenders like the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, and the San Antonio Spurs. The Lakers have accomplished the majority of this feat without #Lonzo Ball. From the looks of it, they might need to continue living life without the rookie for a few more days.
Lakers head coach Luke Walton is clueless when Lonzo Ball will return to action
It seems like the Los Angeles #Lakers will have to continue life without rookie #Lonzo Ball. The second-overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft has been out for seven games due to a sprained MCL. Even Lakers head coach Luke Walton does not know when the former UCLA standout is going to come back. After the Lakers' practice Tuesday, Walton spoke about the status of Lonzo.
Blake Griffin trade to Pistons causes confusion within the Clippers organization
The Los Angeles #Clippers stunned the world when they completed a #Trade that saw them end their relationship with #Blake Griffin. The Oklahoma native spent nearly a decade with the organization that selected him with the No. 1 pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. The Clippers sent Blake Griffin to the Detroit Pistons [VIDEO], together with Brice Johnson and Willie Reed. In return, they acquired Avery Bradley, Tobias Harris, and Boban Marjanovi?.
NBA Trade Rumors: Marc Gasol to complete another Big Three in the East?
All-star center #Marc Gasol is back in #NBA Trade Rumors following the recent turn of events involving the Memphis Grizzlies. It began on November 26 in a matchup with the Brooklyn Nets. Ex-Grizzlies head coach David Fizdale benched Gasol [VIDEO] in the fourth quarter of that contest. The Grizzlies ended up losing and after the game, Gasol expressed frustration. The next day, Fizdale got sacked.
Trump wants Raiders' Marshawn Lynch banned after latest national anthem protest
On November 19, the Oakland #Raiders were in Mexico and took on the New England Patriots. The Raiders got dominated by the reigning Super Bowl champions, 33-8. Even before the game began, the Raiders were already in the headlines as running back #Marshawn Lynch continued his protest. Lynch sat down for the "Star-Spangled Banner," but he stood up when the national anthem of Mexico played. The action of Marshawn Lynch drew the ire of United States President #Donald Trump.
Cavaliers roster underwent minor changes ahead of showdown with Pistons
A player signed in this year's offseason has joined the Cleveland #Cavaliers roster before a road game against the Detroit #Pistons on November 20. The Cavs are adjusting their lineup almost every outing as the injury bug continues to trouble them this season. According to Cleveland.com, the guy called up to the #Cavaliers roster was John Holland.
NBA All-Star and Timberwolves guard Jimmy Butler stays true to his word
One of the prominent players in the #NBA that switched teams during the offseason was #Jimmy Butler. The former Marquette standout requested a trade from the Chicago Bulls, and they sent him to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Butler had a slow start with the #Timberwolves. His performances were a bit distant from the ones he had in the 2016-17 season. Due to this, he made a promise nearly two weeks ago.
Déjà vu for ex-Los Angeles Lakers starter as he loses significance anew
In June, the Los Angeles #Lakers made a drastic roster move. They sent Timofey Mozgov to the Brooklyn #Nets together with D'Angelo Russell. The Lakers received Brook Lopez and the 27th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft (used to select Kyle Kuzma) in return. One of the purposes of that trade is to get rid of Mozgov's pricey deal. The Lakers signed the Russian big man to a four-year, $64 million contract in 2016. The time of Mozgov with the #Los Angeles Lakers is something to forget.
Ex-Golden State Warriors prospect joins Texas-based squad
The #Dallas Mavericks are desperate for help, and that was evident earlier this week when they brought in a virtual unknown. Plagued by injuries [VIDEO], the Mavericks signed guard #Antonius Cleveland to a two-way contract, which means he is going to play for them and in the NBA G League. Before suiting up for the Mavs, Cleveland was with the G League affiliate of the #Golden State Warriors, the Santa Cruz Warriors. Cleveland went undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft.
NBA Playoffs: Los Angeles Clippers Fall to Utah Jazz in Game 1, Coach Doc Rivers Lambastes Reporter
This year’s NBA Playoffs began Saturday, unfortunately, the Los Angeles Clippers found themselves on the losing side. Lob City experienced a heartbreaking opening to its postseason campaign as it lost to the Utah Jazz, 97-95. This may have been tough on head coach Doc Rivers who blasted a reporter during the post-game press conference. In the closing moments of Game 1, the Clippers were trailing 95-93 but had possession with less than 20 seconds left.
Cleveland Cavaliers News: Indiana Pacers’ Paul George Schooled by LeBron James for Ripping Teammate C.J. Miles
Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James might have criticized the Indiana Pacers’ Paul George after the latter’s rant about taking the last shot. George was unhappy that his teammate, C.J. Miles, was the one who went for what could have been a game-winning jumper. Miles missed his attempt and they lost, 109-108. The final possession in the game belonged to the Pacers who had 10 seconds to try and win it. As expected, the ball ended up in the hands of George.
NBA: Kristaps Porzingis Backs Carmelo Anthony In Feud with New York Knicks President Phil Jackson
The 2017 NBA off-season just started for the New York Knicks and it is already a disaster. Knicks president Phil Jackson may have ignited a clash with team superstar Carmelo Anthony, who could be receiving the support of Kristaps Porzingis. In a press conference last Friday, Jackson suggested that it is time for the Knicks to part ways with Anthony.
UFC 210 Results: Daniel Cormier Blasts Contenders Jimi Manuwa, Jon Jones After Submitting Anthony Johnson
The UFC light heavyweight division still belongs to Daniel “DC” Cormier who retained his title Saturday at UFC 210 when he defeated Anthony “Rumble” Johnson in their second meeting. Following the victory, Cormier had some words for potential contenders Jimi Manuwa and his fiercest rival, Jon Jones. Cormier (19-1) had a slow start in the championship bout. Johnson (22-6) was the aggressor early and was putting the pressure on the champion.
Cleveland Cavaliers News: Reigning Champs Embarrassed Again with 2017 NBA Playoffs Just Around the Corner
The 2017 NBA Playoffs is approaching but the reigning champions Cleveland Cavaliers may not be in fighting form yet as they suffered another tough defeat Friday. An almost complete Cavaliers squad was beaten at the Quicken Loans Arena by the short-handed Atlanta Hawks, 114-100. Paul Millsap, Dennis Schroder, Kent Bazemore, and Dwight Howard, all regular starters for the Hawks, did not see action in the contest.
NFL Rumors: Seattle Seahawks’ Richard Sherman Started All Trade Talks, Cornerback Requested To Be Dealt?
A few weeks ago, the Seattle Seahawks and Richard Sherman made noise in the NFL when they headlined trade rumors. During that time, it seemed like it was the Seahawks who were ready to part ways with Sherman. That may not be the case. When the trade talks about Sherman started, many were surprised. The cornerback is one of the best players for the Seahawks. He was a major contributor to the success they achieved in the past few years.
New Orleans Saints Could Trade For Seattle Seahawks Cornerback Richard Sherman
For weeks now, Seattle Seahawks star cornerback Richard Sherman is a favorite in NFL trade talks. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll already expressed how much they value him, but still, this does not guarantee he will stay. One team that may be eyeing Sherman is the New Orleans Saints. The Saints have had their fair share of involvement in trade discussions in this year’s off-season. They even accomplished a big one with the New England Patriots.
L.A. Lakers Could Trade D’Angelo Russell, PG to Reunite With Simmons, Embiid?
The development of Los Angeles Lakers point guard D’Angelo Russell has been slow and in two seasons, he is yet to live up to the expectations. If this continues, he may be on the move soon and a team that may trade for him is the Philadelphia 76ers. So far, Russell’s NBA career is full of ups and downs. There were nights when it seemed like the Lakers found their new franchise star. Two weeks ago in a loss to the reigning NBA champions Cleveland Cavaliers, he exploded for a career-best 40 points.
NBA Trade Rumors: Jimmy Butler No Longer An Expendable For Chicago Bulls?
The Chicago Bulls’ Jimmy Butler was recently a hot topic in NBA trade rumors. Chicago was reportedly ready to part ways with him when the 2016-17 NBA season concludes. That may have changed especially after the Bulls returned to the playoff race with Saturday’s 106-104 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. A few days ago, Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer mentioned in his report that a “front-office source” told him Butler is “as good as gone” when the Bulls’ present campaign ends.
NBA News: Sacramento Kings Complete Late Comeback, Stun Los Angeles Clippers
The Sacramento Kings scored a big victory on the road Sunday as they erased an 18-point deficit in the fourth quarter to upset the Los Angeles Clippers, 98-97. Second-year center Willie Cauley-Stein helped the Kings end a four-game losing streak as he scored the game-winning basket. In the final frame, with over five minutes remaining, it looked like the Kings were again going to experience a blowout loss. Heading to the Staples Center, they were defeated by double-digits in their last four games.
NFL Rumors: Richard Sherman Supports Colin Kaepernick, QB Joining Seahawks Soon?
The veteran Colin Kaepernick is still a hot topic in NFL rumors as he remains unsigned. One of the teams viewed as a possible landing spot for him was the Seattle Seahawks. The probability of this happening may have improved with Richard Sherman recently expressing support for the quarterback. This 2017, Kaepernick decided to end his relationship with the San Francisco 49ers. He opted out of his deal to test the free agency waters. Unfortunately, no NFL team is showing solid interest in him.
Lakers News and Rumors: Shaq Unhappy With Clippers, Griffin Switching Teams?
Shaquille O’Neal dominated Los Angeles Lakers news in the past couple of days. This was because of the unveiling of his statue at the Staples Center. Setting aside the merriment, “Shaq” blasted the other team in the City of Angels, the Clippers. In a report by Lakers Nation, O’Neal expressed disdain towards the Clippers who “cover up” the Lakers’ championship banners and retired jerseys. This takes place each time they use the Staples Center for their home games.
Los Angeles Lakers News: D’Angelo Russell Fined, No Response To Draymond Green
The latest Los Angeles Lakers news is centered on D’Angelo Russell who was recently fined by the NBA, together with teammate Nick Young and the Milwaukee Bucks’ Greg Monroe. All three were involved in an on-court skirmish that took place Friday at the Staples Center. It was in the third quarter of Friday’s game when the scuffle between the Lakers and Bucks broke out. Young, who tried to aggressively attack the rim, received a hard foul from Milwaukee’s Malcolm Brogdon.
Los Angeles Lakers Rumors: D’Angelo Russell Exempted From NBA Trades For Now?
Recent Los Angeles Lakers trade rumors revolve around D’Angelo Russell, who is experiencing a slump as of late. However, in Friday’s 107-103 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, the point guard gave the Lakers what they wanted and this could take him off trade rumors at least for now. In the past few games of the Lakers, Russell was coming off the bench. He did not complain about the relegation, but his performance declined.
Cavaliers News: Sanders’ D-League Run Short-Lived, Irving Hurt In Love’s Return
In Cleveland Cavaliers news, Larry Sanders is back from the NBA D-League. The center rejoined the team Thursday in a 91-83 victory over the Utah Jazz. Another player that returned to the roster was Kevin Love. Unfortunately, the injury bug continues to ravage the team, and one of the latest victims is Kyrie Irving. As reported by the Cavaliers’ website, Sanders was called up from the D-League. This was a little surprising since he did not play a single game for the Canton Charge.
Cavs News and Rumors: Korver’s Absence Extended, Sanders Close to NBA Return?
The latest Cavs news and rumors revolve around Kyle Korver and Larry Sanders. Korver, who is nursing a foot woe, will likely need to miss one more week of action. Meanwhile, it looks like Sanders is near to an NBA comeback following the injury to Andrew Bogut. As reported by Cleveland.com, Korver had an MRI recently and the sore foot he is experiencing is caused by a tendon inflammation.
Denver Broncos Roster: Domata Peko, Zach Kerr Agree To Two-Year Contracts
The Denver Broncos roster has already undergone changes early in the new NFL year. Recently, the Broncos added two defensive pieces as the veteran Domata Peko, together with Zach Kerr, head to Denver after both agreed to two-year contracts. Before joining the Broncos, Peko, a fourth-round pick (123rd overall) in the 2006 NFL Draft, spent his entire career with the Cincinnati Bengals. During his rookie year, he only had one start. Following this, the Bengals trusted him with the starting job.
Lakers Rumors and News: Rob Pelinka Promises Changes, Young Core Disassembled?
Los Angeles Lakers rumors and news will flourish in the coming months after the hiring of Rob Pelinka as the team’s new general manager. Pelinka, during his introductory press conference Friday, made it clear that he will be a busy executive and changes are going to happen. For the past three seasons, the Lakers have performed poorly despite the young talents and reliable veterans they acquired. The 2016-17 NBA season is turning out to be similar to those.
Philadelphia Eagles News: Receivers Prioritized, JuJu Smith-Schuster An Option
In the latest Philadelphia Eagles news, the team is busy as it continues the search for a wide receiver. Recently, USC’s JuJu Smith-Schuster was one of the names linked to Philadelphia after having the chance to workout with Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz at the NFL Scouting Combine. As reported by ESPN, Smith-Schuster had a great experience during his time on the field with Wentz.
Los Angeles Lakers News: Coach Luke Walton Approves DeMarcus Cousins Acquisition
The Los Angeles Lakers made it to the news a number of times ahead of this year’s NBA trade deadline and one of these linked them to DeMarcus Cousins. They tried to acquire him but did not pursue because a deal would have included Brandon Ingram. However, in a recent podcast interview, Lakers head coach Luke Walton sounded okay if they added the controversial All-Star center. Los Angeles was one of the teams that reached out to the Sacramento Kings for Cousins.
Kevin Durant News: Warriors Star Sprains MCL, Return Date Remains Undetermined
The latest Kevin Durant news could be an unpleasant one for the Golden State Warriors and their fans. Durant, who injured his left knee Tuesday in the Warriors’ 112-108 loss to the Washington Wizards, suffered an MCL sprain. The announcement was made through Twitter Wednesday. In a tweet by the Warriors PR, it was revealed that Durant sustained a Grade 2 MCL sprain plus a tibial bone bruise. He is going to be re-evaluated in four weeks, and as of this moment, there is no timetable for his return.
Toronto Raptors Vs. Boston Celtics: Tempers Flared, Raps’ Newcomers Emerge
The Toronto Raptors and the Boston Celtics met Thursday in a fiery clash of Eastern Conference contenders. It was an excellent game that had some physicality but in the end, the Raptors completed a comeback from a 17-point deficit to capture a 107-97 victory. The Raptors, Celtics, Washington Wizards and the Atlanta Hawks are teams in the East seen having the best chance to oust or at least come close to reigning champions, the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Sacramento Kings Trade: ‘Better Deal’ Offered For Cousins Before Pelicans Move
The Sacramento Kings trade that sent DeMarcus Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans is seen by many as a lopsided exchange, in favor of the latter. On Monday, Kings GM Vlade Divac may have made things worse as he revealed that a “better deal” was in front of him before he said yes to the Pelicans. Earlier this week, a Sacramento Kings trade shook the basketball world. The Kings finally parted ways with Cousins, although the move was heavily criticized.
Lakers Trade Rumors: Lou Williams to Wizards, Guard Reacts to Potential Deal
When it comes to Los Angeles Lakers trade rumors, the hottest topic as of this moment is Lou Williams. Many are expecting him to leave before the NBA trade deadline on February 23. The Washington Wizards are reportedly among the teams eyeing the veteran guard. In a recent discussion, The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski shared with sports journalist Chris Mannix the Wizards’ interest in Williams.
NBA Trade News: Pistons’ Reggie Jackson Captures Interest of Magic
In the latest NBA trade news, the Detroit Pistons received another offer for Reggie Jackson. The Orlando Magic were the latest team to inquire about the point guard and a package deal was already placed on the table. It features two NBA veterans in D.J. Augustin and Jeff Green. ESPN reported the trade negotiation between the Pistons and the Magic. It appears that Orlando is already the third NBA team that wants to trade for Jackson.
Cavs Trade News: Chris Andersen To Hornets For Roster Slot, 2017 Second-Rounder
In the latest Cavs trade news, the reigning champions parted ways with Chris Andersen after almost seven months. The veteran center was shipped to the Charlotte Hornets to free a roster slot which can be used in potential deals, especially with the February 23 trade deadline just around the corner. As ESPN reported, the Cleveland Cavaliers also sent cash to the Hornets. Aside from having the ability to add a player, the trade gave the Cavs a protected 2017 second-round pick.
L.A. Lakers Trade Rumors: 76ers’ Jahlil Okafor Absent On Team’s Radar
The Los Angeles Lakers trade rumors are starting to be rampant as the team continues to go downhill this 2016-17 NBA regular season. A few prominent players were already linked to the purple and gold franchise, but the Philadelphia 76ers’ Jahlil Okafor is not one of them. It can be expected that he will be absent on the list of potential acquisitions for the squad as the speculations flourish. Okafor has been a topic in Lakers trade rumors numerous times in the past.
NBA Trade Rumors: Carmelo Anthony To Bulls Backed By Jimmy Butler
Carmelo Anthony to the Chicago Bulls almost happened in the 2014 free agency period. However, during that time, he chose to re-sign with the New York Knicks with his deal having a no-trade clause. Now, this possibility is again gathering hype as Jimmy Butler expressed willingness to welcome the veteran forward to his team. The Chicago Sun-Times reported that a few days back, Jimmy Butler phoned Carmelo Anthony and the former labeled it as a “catch-up” call.
NBA Rumors: 76ers Trade Blurry As Okafor Steps Up In Embiid’s Absence
A Philadelphia 76ers trade appeared to be in the books a few days ago when the basketball world was stunned by reports stating that center Jahlil Okafor was targeted by the New Orleans Pelicans. Now, the chances of him leaving might be decreasing as he provides impressive performances in the absence of rookie star Joel Embiid. Earlier this week, the 76ers discussed with the Pelicans a trade that would see them finally part ways with Okafor.
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