Ryan Ward
Verified- Lakers Reporter, Lakers Nation
- Host, Jello Jigglin - A Lakers Podcast with Ryan Ward
- Journalist, EssentiallySports
Los Angeles
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I cover the Los Angeles Lakers, NFL, NBA, and the Oakland Raiders.
Reporter/Publisher: @LakersOnSI - Raiders/NFL: @HeavyOnSports - LA Native, UK Born - 📧: RyanWardLA@Gmail.com
Articles by Ryan Ward
Walker Kessler Sends Clear Message Amid Delayed Lakers Debut
After three preseason games, the majority of the newcomers for the Los Angeles Lakers have seen a substantial amount of time on the floor, with head coach JJ Redick and his coaching staff getting a look at Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Kevon Looney and Quentin Grimes. Unfortunately, Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton have yet to make their debuts for the Lakers, as both are dealing with injuries.
Lakers Officially Acquire Walker Kessler, Sign 2 Free Agents
The Los Angeles Lakers have had quite a busy summer thus far, with the team going through a major roster overhaul to build around superstar Luka Doncic for the foreseeable future. The first move the Lakers made right out of the gate was a big one, as the team pulled off a surprising sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz to acquire rising star Walker Kessler, addressing the team's biggest need heading into the offseason.
Lakers Linked to Potential Lu Dort Trade
Every team in the NBA is waiting for the first offseason domino to drop, and without a doubt, it's the Milwaukee Bucks trading superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Once that happens, the NBA offseason will likely kick into high gear, with the Los Angeles Lakers looking to upgrade their roster in free agency and potentially with trades.
Kevin Love Linked to Lakers as New LeBron James Rumor Gains Momentum
Following the conclusion of the 2025-26 NBA season, all 30 teams in the league can start talking to their free agents, a list that is quite long for the Los Angeles Lakers, headlined by superstar LeBron James. Although it has been uncertain what James intends to do this summer, as he'll have no shortage of options if he tests NBA free agency for the first time since 2018, it seems increasingly likely that he'll re-sign with the Lakers.
Rams Star Myles Garrett Reveals Why Lakers Legend Kobe Bryant Still Inspires Him
Over the last few years, fans of professional sports teams in Los Angeles have gotten pretty lucky, with superstars galore landing in the City of Angels. From Shohei Ohtani signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Los Angeles Lakers trading for superstar guard Luka Doncic, and now the Los Angeles Rams have brought in arguably the best defensive end in the NFL by trading for Myles Garrett.
Mac Jones de los 49ers recibe una respuesta clara de Kyle Shanahan sobre el futuro comercial
Getty Mac Jones #10 de los 49ers de San Francisco Durante el 2025 NFL temporada, la 49ers de San Francisco tuvo que apoyarse en gran medida en el mariscal de campo veterano Mac Jones a veces debido a Brock PurdyLos problemas de lesiones. Jones, quien había sido descartado por muchos, jugó bien en lugar de Purdy, lo que generó especulaciones sobre el futuro del ex Pro Bowler.
Rich Paul Drops Blunt Truth on Lakers ‘Better Without LeBron' Talk
One of the lingering conversations that has followed the Los Angeles Lakers throughout much of the season has been their play without star forward LeBron James. This topic gained even more attention in recent weeks, particularly after James missed time earlier this month and the Lakers still managed to continue their upward trend.
Exclusive: Dick Vitale Talks 2026 March Madness, Planet Fitness & His Battle With Cancer
It’s that time of year again when basketball becomes the focal point in this country, with the NBA heading into the final stretch of its season, the playoffs looming, and college basketball heading into the always highly anticipated NCAA Tournament, with everyone filling out their brackets following Selection Sunday. Legendary college hoops analyst Dick Vitale has been giving us bracket intel for more than 40 years now.
Iman Shumpert Explains ‘Mental Battle' of Playing With Lakers' LeBron James
Throughout the years, there has been a steady narrative around the difficulty of playing alongside Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James. Former NBA guard Iman Shumpert, who shared the court with James for three and a half seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers, provided clarity on why it can be challenging to play with the four-time NBA champion, via Out Of The Mud Podcast.
Horace Grant Reiterates Michael Jordan’s GOAT Status, Talks Bulls, Kobe-Shaq Lakers and More (Exclusive) Original
Few players in NBA history have been as successful and played with so many iconic players and superstar duos as Chicago Bulls legend Horace Grant.
Meet Leo Klein: The Superfan Who Owns the Rarest NBA All-Star Collection (Exclusive)
If Willy Wonka ever traded chocolate for championship banners, he might have ended up in Bergen County, New Jersey. Down in the basement of Bergen County attorney Leo Klein’s home, the carpet is checkerboarded in New York Knicks colors. Framed photos line the walls. Signed memorabilia fills the shelves. And mounted carefully in chronological order are 40 multi-colored basketballs, one from every NBA Three-Point Shootout since 1986. Klein isn’t just a fan of All-Star Weekend.
Lakers' Austin Reaves Reveals Moment 'Weight of the World' Was Off His Shoulders
Few NBA star players have had a journey to get where they are, like Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers, who went from a no-name undrafted rookie to one of the best guards in the league while sharing the spotlight with two generational talents, Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
Exclusive: Ravens’ Roquan Smith on John Harbaugh’s Exit, Super Bowl Expectations and Jesse Minter
Essentials Inside The Story Ravens championship expectation never dips, city and locker room enforce it. Roquan Smith backs John Harbaugh completely, believes New York stage fits him. Lamar Jackson–Jesse Minter duo draws intriguing endorsement from the LB. During DenTek’s Ultimate Fantasy Football Punishment Reveal ahead of Super Bowl LX, Baltimore Ravens five-time All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith spoke with Essentially Sports about several different topics.
Exclusive: Panthers’ Jaycee Horn Discusses Bryce Young’s Growth, Sam Darnold Trade, Fantasy Football & More
Essentials Inside The Story Jaycee Horn pushes for more physical play for cornerbacks against receivers. Recent collaboration highlights football-related stress through dental guards. The CB praises Sam Darnold’s success with the Seahawks, rooting for him. Two-time NFL Pro Bowler and Carolina Panthers star cornerback Jayce Horn spoke with Essentially Sports about his partnership with DenTek, his NFL career, the Panthers, Bryce Young, and other topics related to the cornerback position in the NFL.
Exclusive: Jon Weeks Talks 49ers Future, Super Bowl Chances, EMF Substation Theory & More
Ahead of Super Bowl LX, DenTek revealed the Ultimate Fantasy Football Punishment for CJ Kemper, which turned out to be a giant banana statue built in his likeness, which was equally embarrassing and hilarious. In attendance for the unveiling were a number of NFL players, including Hall of Famer Ronde Barber, five-time All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith (Baltimore Ravens), two-time Pro Bowl corner Jaycee Horn (Carolina Panthers), and two-time Pro Bowl long snapper Jon Weeks (San Francisco 49ers).
Exclusive: Former NFL QB Jeff Garcia Talks 49ers & Bay Area Events Ahead of Super Bowl LX
Essentials Inside The Story Jeff Garcia is deeply involved in Super Bowl LX festivities in the Bay Area. Garcia leans toward Seattle to win the Super Bowl. He compared his playing style to Baker Mayfield. With Super Bowl LX set to be played in the Bay Area once again on Feb. 8, former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jeff Garcia has been a busy man, with several events and football camps set to take place leading up to the big game.
Exclusive: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. Talks Falcons, Kevin Stefanski, Matt Ryan, Invisalign Partnership & Much More Original
Essentials Inside The Story Michael Penix Jr. is ahead of schedule in his knee injury recovery. He reveals how Invisalign has helped boost his confidence off the field. The quarterback spoke highly of the Falcons’ new leadership. After his 2025 season was cut short by a knee injury, Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. is beginning his offseason recovery amid major changes to the franchise.
Exclusive: Devin Hester Talks Hall of Fame Career, Bears, Seahawks, Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund & much more Original
Essentials Inside The Story Hester is actively raising funds for the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund Partnering with PorkRinds.com, Hester announced February 8, 2026, as a day of support for the foundation Fans who subscribe to the site have a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip for two people to the 2027 Super Bowl Arguably, the greatest kick returner in NFL history is Chicago Bears legend Devin Hester.
Robert Parish Talks Celtics, New Book, Thunder, Modern NBA & Much More [Exclusive]
The Boston Celtics are one of the most iconic franchises in professional sports, with the team boasting an NBA record 18 championship banners in the rafters of TD Garden, while their arch-rival, the Los Angeles Lakers, trails them by one with 17. Over the course of the Celtics’ incredibly successful history, numerous legends have played for the storied franchise.
Exclusive: Director Ken Rodgers Opens Up About John Elway Netflix Documentary
Essentials Inside The Story Director Ken Rodgers on what made John Elway an exceptional athlete Elway director highlights John Elway’s resilience, pressure, and Denver identity Rare exclusive access reveals Broncos' legend’s humanity beyond Super Bowls Denver Broncos legend John Elway is one of the most iconic and celebrated quarterbacks in NFL history, a winner of back-to-back Super Bowls to finish his Hall of Fame career, and one of the best general managers in football once his playing...
Exclusive: Ed McCaffrey Talks Broncos, Christian McCaffrey, Protein Bites & Much More
Essentials Inside The Story Ed McCaffrey opens up about life beyond football, revealing a lesser-known chapter that shaped everything that followed His reflections on John Elway, the Broncos, and legacy hint at why those championship teams were truly different From father to Hall-of-Fame bloodline, one mindset shift changed his career, and echoes in his son's rise today During his incredible NFL career, which spanned over a decade from 1991 to 2003, star wide receiver Ed McCaffrey was a part...
Lakers Star Luka Dončić Apologizes to Ex-ESPN NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski in New Jordan Ad
Dec 18, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward/guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates after scoring a three point basket during the second half against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center.
Exclusive: DeMarcus Lawrence Talks Seahawks, Mike Macdonald, REIGN Total Body Fuel and Much More
Essentials Inside The Story DeMarcus Lawrence talks about his new chapter with the Seattle Seahawks after 11 years with Dallas Lawrence catches up on his experience working under Head Coach Mike Macdonald Lawrence also talks about his nickname and what it means to him After spending the first 11 years of his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys and making a name for himself as one of the best pass rushers in the league, one-time All-Pro defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is now the new face of the...
Anthony Black Talks NBA Cup, Magic, Desmond Bane, Trash Talking & Much More [Exclusive]
As the Orlando Magic prepare for the semifinals of the NBA Cup in Las Vegas, Nevada, against the New York Knicks, up-and-coming guard Anthony Black took some time out of his schedule to speak with EssentiallySports about his third season in the NBA. The Arkansas product has taken his game to another level during the 2025-26 campaign, earning more time on the floor while averaging career-high numbers in points (13.0), rebounds (3.9), assists (3.2) and steals per game (1.3).
Exclusive: Tim Hardaway Talks 'Run TMC' Warriors, Killer Crossover Book, State of the NBA & Much More
Few players in NBA history had a more iconic go-to move than Hall of Famer Tim Hardaway Sr., making his crossover a lethal weapon in his offensive arsenal, which star players in the league that followed him tried to emulate and incorporate into their own games.
Exclusive: Suns' Jordan Goodwin Talks NBA Journey, Brooks-LeBron Feud, Chris Paul, Austin Reaves & Much More
As an undrafted guard out of Saint Louis Billikens, current Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin’s journey to being an NBA player was anything but smooth, as he had to prove himself in the G League on multiple occasions over the last few years before making a name for himself with the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2024-25 NBA season.
Exclusive: Ravens Veteran Ronnie Stanley Talks About Protecting Lamar Jackson, My Cause My Cleats, Myles Garrett & More
The Baltimore Ravens have gone from one of the most disappointing teams in the league this season to one of the hottest teams with superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson back under center. Baltimore has won five straight games to take over the AFC North lead.
Exclusive: Nick Chubb Talks Texans, C.J. Stroud's Leadership, REIGN Total Body Fuel Partnership & Much More
Essentials Inside The Story Nick Chubb spoke exclusively to EssentiallySports and revealed why he joined the Texans Texans RB comments on his injury rehab Chubb reveals the type of defender he loves competing against Veteran running back Nick Chubb spoke with Essentially Sports as he goes through his first season with his new squad with the Houston Texans.
Exclusive: Champ Bailey Talks Broncos, Bo Nix, Pat Surtain’s Hall of Fame Trajectory, RJ Harvey’s Rise & More
Denver Broncos legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Champ Bailey sat down with Essentially Sports for a wide-ranging interview about various topics. Bailey went in-depth about his experiences with his former NFL team, the current squad, Bo Nix, Patrick Surtain, Sean Payton and his partnership with Positive Athlete for the My Cause, My Cleats campaign. Q: I’m sure you’re happy about your Broncos against the Las Vegas Raiders, right? That was a weird game, right? Like, just what happened there?
NFL Trade Deadline: How Did Cowboys, Colts, Seahawks and More Change Their Playoff Fate?
The 2025 NFL trade deadline came and went in a blur of calculated gambles, desperate swings, and head-scratching decisions. For several teams, the final 72 hours before the bell marked a clear dividing line between chasing playoff glory or accepting a rebuild. Let’s break down how the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Seattle Seahawks and Jacksonville Jaguars reshaped their postseason hopes, and what their moves mean for the rest of the season.
The Colts Are Back: 3 Reasons for Indianapolis' Transformation Into an AFC Heavyweight
After a few years wandering as a mediocre team in the NFL, the Indianapolis Colts have surged to the front of the pack in 2025. Through eight weeks, they own the league’s best record at 7-1 and one of the NFL’s top-scoring offenses, an identity powered by a resurgent Jonathan Taylor, a revitalized Daniel Jones, and a head coach, Shane Steichen, who’s making all the right moves as the leader on the sideline.
Exclusive: Packers Legend LeRoy Butler Talks Micah Parsons Trade, Jordan Love & More
One of the most iconic franchises in professional sports is the Green Bay Packers, who have played a pivotal role in the NFL’s popularity, with legendary coaches like Vince Lombardi and unforgettable superstar quarterbacks such as Bart Starr, Brett Favre, and Aaron Rodgers.
NFL Coach of the Year Odds & Picks: Mike Vrabel Leads, Todd Bowles Surging After Week 8
Eight weeks of the 2025 NFL season are officially in the books, with the race for NFL Coach of the Year starting to take shape, as specific candidates have begun to separate themselves from the pack. Here are five legitimate candidates for the regular-season award, along with one dark horse, who may be able to leap ahead of his peers before it is all said and done. ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad 1.
Exclusive: Amar’e Stoudemire on Knicks’ Playoffs Chances, LeBron James’ Podcast & the NBA GOAT
From his early days in Phoenix to his MVP-caliber seasons and championship runs overseas, Amar’e Stoudemire’s journey has been anything but ordinary. He earned six All-Star nods, made the All-NBA teams five times, and had his No.32 jersey retired by the Suns. After hanging up his boots, he has continued to find new ground to thrive on. Stoudemire recently teamed up with Grab1, which is a kosher-certified food and beverage brand dedicated to promoting active, healthy lifestyles.
Starting 5 Is a Homage to Mothers: Director Trishtan Williams [Exclusive]
After a successful first season of Netflix’s Starting 5, the docu-series was greenlit for a second season ahead of the 2025-26 NBA campaign. The first season showcased some of the best and the brightest in the NBA, featuring stars LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, Domantas Sabonis, and Jimmy Butler.
Exclusive: Bears Legend Mike Singletary Talks Caleb Williams, Ben Johnson & New Book
The Chicago Bears have had a lot of legendary players come through the franchise, leaving their mark on the organization as well as the game of football itself. One of those players is none other than Hall of Famer Mike Singletary, who was not only a part of arguably the greatest defense in NFL history, the ’85 Bears, but also someone who has had success as a head coach and an author, as his strive for greatness didn’t stop with his playing days on the gridiron.
Drake Maye Has A Stake in the MVP Conversation, But Baker Mayfield Leads It
The first six weeks of the 2025 NFL season are officially in the books, with some interesting storylines developing across the league, especially when it comes to the leading candidate for NFL MVP. Watch What’s Trending Now! As usual, the MVP award appears to be headed toward a star quarterback, at least at this point in the 2025 campaign, with three compelling candidates in particular.
Exclusive: Marshawn Lynch Talks Raiders' Rookie Ashton Jeanty & Dove Partnership Original
Few players in the history of the NFL have been as entertaining on and off the field as one-time Super Bowl champion Marshawn Lynch. The iconic running back made his presence felt, logging 10,413 rushing yards while playing for the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and his beloved hometown Oakland Raiders.
Is it Time for the Raiders to Bench Veteran QB Geno Smith? Original
The Las Vegas Raiders were determined to put together a title-contending squad during the NFL offseason, and after five weeks with a new-look squad, things are falling apart, with all eyes on Geno Smith. The Raiders finished last season with a record of 4-13, prompting moves to bring in Pete Carroll as Pierce’s successor, trade for Smith and draft promising young running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Matthew Stafford vs. Mac Jones: QB Chess Match Ends in OT Thriller for Rams & 49ers
Ahead of Week 5’s Thursday Night Football matchup against the division rival Los Angeles Rams, the San Francisco 49ers found out they would have to play without star quarterback Brock Purdy yet again. The storied franchise was forced to pivot to veteran backup Mac Jones, who had already played in two games due to Purdy’s absence, resulting in two wins for San Francisco.
Matthew Stafford vs. Mac Jones: QB Chess Match Ends in OT Thriller for Rams & 49ers
Ahead of Week 5’s Thursday Night Football matchup against the division rival Los Angeles Rams, the San Francisco 49ers found out they would have to play without star quarterback Brock Purdy yet again. The storied franchise was forced to pivot to veteran backup Mac Jones, who had already played in two games due to Purdy’s absence, resulting in two wins for San Francisco.
Exclusive: NFL Legend Tim Brown on Challenging Game of Golf, Celebrity Golf Classic & More
Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players to ever play in the NFL, Tim Brown, was kind enough to speak with Essentially Sports about his upcoming Fresh Start Surgical Gifts Inaugural Celebrity Golf Classic, his love for the game of golf, and all things Las Vegas Raiders in a wide-ranging two-part interview. Brown opened up about what’s in store for the Celebrity Golf Classic, which takes place on Nov.
Exclusive: Raiders Legend Tim Brown Talks Tom Brady’s Involvement in Vegas, Mahomes’ Rise and More
The Las Vegas Raiders franchise has had some iconic players come through the organization over the course of its existence, with a long line of Hall of Famers. Perhaps one of the most iconic players to wear the Silver and Black was wide receiver Tim Brown, who earned the nickname “Mr. Raider” for all that he accomplished while catching passes during his 16 seasons with the Raiders.
Exclusive: Raiders Legend Tim Brown Talks Tom Brady’s Involvement in Vegas, Mahomes’ Rise and More
The Las Vegas Raiders franchise has had some iconic players come through the organization over the course of its existence, with a long line of Hall of Famers. Perhaps one of the most iconic players to wear the Silver and Black was wide receiver Tim Brown, who earned the nickname “Mr. Raider” for all that he accomplished while catching passes during his 16 seasons with the Raiders.
Exclusive: Raiders’ Maxx Crosby Names Dream Teammate, Shouts Out Today’s Stars & All-Time Greats Original
There are a few players in the NFL today who can intimidate opposing quarterbacks quite like Las Vegas Raiders superstar defensive end Maxx Crosby. Every single season, Crosby takes another step toward winning NFL Defensive Player of the Year while being mentioned in the same breath as Myles Garrett, Nick Bosa and T.J. Watt. Crosby has become a household name over the last few years due to his impact on the field.
Bengals WR Ja'Marr Chase Opens Up About His Relationship With Justin Jefferson
The Cincinnati Bengals once again must pivot on the fly with superstar quarterback Joe Burrow going down with a toe injury that will cost him at least three months. The team’s first challenge will be taking on the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3, with two of the best wide receivers in the NFL, Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, going head-to-head to try to secure a win for their respective squads.
Saquon Barkley Sounds Off on Former Teammate Daniel Jones' Early Success With Colts
The Daniel Jones era of the New York Giants was forgettable, to say the least. Even though he showed flashes of promise at times and had Saquon Barkley coming out of the backfield, the Giants never got going, but now he’s begun turning things around while starting fresh with the Indianapolis Colts.
Stephen & Jerry Jones Tease Potential Trade to Improve Cowboys Defense
The Dallas Cowboys have been a drama-filled organization in the NFL ever since Jerry Jones bought the team in 1989. It has been a non-stop rollercoaster of storylines, rumors and a combination of disgruntled players and coaches. This past NFL offseason was the perfect example of what a circus the Cowboys can be when it comes to being in the headlines on a daily basis, with the Micah Parsons saga being all anyone could talk about.
Lakers Sign Jake LaRavia To Two-Year Contract Original
The Los Angeles Lakers announced they have officially signed forward Jake LaRavia to a two-year contract. The terms of the deal were not disclosed but it is reported to be for around $12 million with no options.
Lakers Sign Deandre Ayton To Two-Year Contract Original
The Los Angeles Lakers announced that they have signed center Deandre Ayton to a two-year contract. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it is reported to be for around $16 million with a player option in 2026-27. The No. 1 goal for the Lakers heading into the NBA offseason was to upgrade the frontcourt, specifically the center position. The Lakers sought to sign or acquire a lob threat in a trade who could thrive playing alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
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