Takeaways from Panthers Media Day

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FORT LAUDERDALE — The bell rang for the first day of classes in South Florida on Wednesday as the Florida Panthers’ school of hockey welcomed its students for the 2024-25 season. The first day of classes being media day and the students being the Panthers’ players.

 

The defending Stanley Cup champions put on their jerseys for the first time this season as they get prepared for the upcoming season and plenty of familiar faces returned to the Baptist Health IcePlex in Fort Lauderdale — 17 being from last season’s Stanley Cup winning team.

 

Training camp starts on Thursday, which means the summer of fun is over. Excitement wouldn’t be the way to describe head coach Paul Maurice’s infamous preseason skates, but the Panthers are ready to get back to work for its title defense. 

 

Here’s three takeaways from media day. 

 

Schmidt excited for fresh start, reunion with Paul Maurice

The Panthers’ defense will have two open spots in the top-six with the offseason departures of Brandon Montour and Oliver Ekman-Larsson. 

 

With little money to spare, Panthers GM Bill Zito went to work as he searched for viable replacements on his Stanley Cup winning blueline. His specialty since arriving in South Florida four years ago has been taking fliers on low-cost, under the radar players and turning them into important roster pieces. 

 

The Panthers hope 12-year NHL veteran Nate Schmidt will be its next success story.

 

Schmidt, 33, has provided his services to four organizations — most recently for the Winnipeg Jets — where he had Paul Maurice as his head coach for part of the 2021-22 season. When the opportunity came to reunite with Maurice in Florida, Schmidt couldn’t pass it up. 

 

“It was a pretty quick decision on my part. I was going through the free agency process and had this place highlighted as somewhere that I really wanted to go and hopefully it would work out,” Schmidt said. “I’m pretty blessed to be here and given how things have gone with Paul and myself — it felt so reenergized when I had him my first year in Winnipeg — just  his style and how he treats players. Understanding what you need to do for him to get the most out of you and the most out of your group.

 

As for his excitement to join the Panthers d-corps, Schmidt had high-praise for Forsling, one of Bill Zito’s greatest acquisitions. 

 

“Don’t tell goose but he’s one of my favorite defensemen to watch,” Schmidt said of the Panthers’ star defenseman. “I ran a camp this summer and I was teaching kids how to serve up and use their sticks, and about thirty of the hundred clips were him.”

 

Reinhart enjoys day with cup, talks extension

Sam Reinhart shouldn’t have to buy a drink in South Florida for the rest of his life — that’s perk you get if you score the game winning goal in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final. 

 

Just a few days after burying the biggest goal of his life and biggest in Panthers’ history, the 28-year-old signed a max term extension — keeping him in Sunrise for the next eight years.

 

“As a player there’s a lot of boxes you try and tick off. Florida for me just happened to be at the top of each category,” Reinhart said when asked about re-signing with the Panthers. “First and foremost being my life, where I wanted to essentially start a family and live, Florida being at the top of the list. We’ve loved it here, we loved our three years here and really (didn’t) see ourselves wanting to go anywhere else.” 

 

Having your name on the greatest trophy in sports is something that all hockey players dream of, but only so many can actually say they did it.

 

A cool ‘tradition’ the NHL started in 2023 after the Vegas Golden Knights won the Stanley Cup was engraving the winning team’s names on the Cup before the players had their day with it. The Panthers’ players were afforded that opportunity this year as well.

 

“To see the name on there was very cool. For my whole family,” Reinhart said,” Being in a hockey family my dad had been there, he had lost it in the finals. Both my brothers have played, haven’t quite reached it, so to be there as a family and see ‘Reinhart’ on there was pretty cool to experience that with them all.”

 

Barkov reflects on summer in Finland

In June, Panthers’ star Aleksander Barkov became the first captain from Finland to win the Stanley Cup and he had quite the summer after. Being named to team Finland for the 2025 NHL 4 Nations’ Face-Off, selling out an arena in his hometown for his day with the Cup and then taking the trophy with him into a sauna was just part of his entertaining but short offseason.  

 

Hailing from Tampere, a city of just under 350,000 that sits two hours north of the Finnish capital Helsinki, Barkov was and still is a star when he returned home as a champion. He spent some of his media availability on Wednesday reflecting on everything that transpired this summer.   

 

“It was a special and amazing moment for me. Forever thankful, grateful for that city, the city of Tampere, to be that kind and letting me celebrate that big moment of my life,” Barkov said. “Having the chance to take the Stanley Cup from place to other place and obviously the big celebration at the arena with all my teammates from Finland and the coach [Panthers assistant coach Tuomo Ruutu]. Not enough words to say how special that moment was for me.”

 

The Panthers will head to ‘Barkov city’ in November for the NHL Global series, where they’ll play two games against the Dallas Stars at Nokia Arena in Tampere, Finland. 

 

“It means alot as well to go there in two months and play two games there,” Barkov said.

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Mateo’s Hoop Diary: The Big Galactus returns to Miami on The OGs podcast

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Former legendary center and Heat standout Shaquille O’Neal came to The OGs’ studio, imparting his wisdom and nonsense. He unfairly ranted about Rudy Gobert, discussed Heat stories, family importance and more.

 

At his peak, O’Neal was the most dominant force in basketball history, second to Wilt Chamberlain. He had moves at close range and unreal athleticism. And it was a wrap if he played with rage.

 

The direction of his stepfather, sergeant Philip Harrison, who he acknowledges as his real father, and mother, are who he credits for setting him straight. As a teen, Shaq said he was a “high-level juvenile delinquent.” He didn’t mention it on the show, but he was also part of a break-dancing team, the Furious Five, and competed on sight with other groups. His name back then was Shocka D, and his ability to fight and move his hips granted him admission into the group. 

 

He stopped hanging out with them after his friends stole a car in Germany on the army base. As the theft began, O’Neal backed away, wanting no part. He left them behind forever.

 

O’Neal has been contumelious because he could, wasted an offseason before getting surgery to avoid camp, and lied about David Robinson in his 2001 memoir. But make no mistake, he is one of the cool, good guys who passed through the NBA. 

 

He’s also generous and hilarious. Never forget when he had a prosperous night at the line and nicknamed himself The Big Havlicek. He modified his Rolls-Royce by removing the steering wheel and inserting one in chrome modeled after Superman, too.

 

When Dennis Scott’s father died, Shaq was the teammate there for him. He removed the mattress from his hotel room, brought it to Scott’s and became his roommate.

 

He did Shaq’s-giving his first two years in Miami, and during Christmas, while he was Shaq-a-Claus, he gifted his teammates lots of his sponsored gear. For example, he left shoes in lockers and once gave his peers nice watches.

 

Let’s review the important topics of this episode.

 

Penny Hardaway and Kobe Bryant

 

Shaq said Penny had everything and didn’t have to “tell him anything.”  Notably, he left out the part where it pissed him off that Hardaway didn’t stick up for him to management during negotiations as Shaq did with everybody.

 

If you read Jeff Pearlman’s book Three Ring Circus: Kobe, Shaq, Phil and the Crazy Years of the Lakers Dynasty, or coach Phil Jackson’s The Last Season: A Team in Search of its Soul, you’ll understand that it bothered Shaq that Kobe didn’t view him as a big brother.  

 

Also, it wasn’t just that Bryant shot too much. While Kurt Rambis was coaching the Lakers, he reminded O’Neal of a coddled relative who had it easier than him growing up. The big man hated the special treatment Bryant got and once wrote Rambis “was always making excuses for Kobe.” 

 

There was respect between the two for their abilities, but they were not friends. O’Neal despised Bryant’s selfish playstyle. Bryant loathed O’Neal’s helplessness to stay in shape.

 

Departing Orlando 

 

He said he left Orlando over money. It was a small factor, but the relationship was finished when the organization didn’t let him properly grieve his grandmother Odessa Chamblis’ death.

 

On a smaller scale, Shaq hated how general manager John Gabriel carried himself as if he did most of the work to get to the ‘95 Finals.

 

Gobert

 

This time, he unfairly said that because Gobert’s making so much money, his accomplishments aren’t enough. O’Neal knows as well as anyone how much big men rely on their teammates to guard the point of attack. In Utah, Gobert didn’t get much help there. The second line of defense, Gobert’s territory, can only recover so much when the first space is cooked.

 

The biggest concern with Gobert’s game is offense. He scores off putbacks and rim rolls against light pressure. He is not a big who creates for himself, which allows his defender to play as a free safety.

 

Big men shooting 

 

O’Neal said, “If I’m the biggest guy out there, I’m not shooting fucking jumpers.“ he also questioned why Joel Embiid takes long shots. In this case, they were only 16.5% of the Philadelphia center’s shot diet. O’Neal recently criticized Victor Wembanyama for the same stuff. 

 

He sounds like an old man screaming to get off his lawn to most people. Yet, O’Neil is right on this topic.

 

Elite size and skills are the great equalizers in basketball. As pretty as it looks for Embiid and Wemby to rise from the perimeter for jumpers, they are bailing out the defense by taking harder shots and not trying to put the opponent in foul trouble. Consider this: Embiid has been first and second the last two seasons in free throw attempts average (11.6), but it could be higher. Embiid averages 9.7 free throws per game in the Playoffs. His speed, strength and close-range arsenal could generate three-to-four more trips. 

 

Wemby’s outside shooting is more problematic. He takes a high volume of outside shots, and he is not good at making them. Even if he does improve, the perimeter is not the area where he will be double-teamed. As long as he stays out there, he is not pressuring the defense as much as he can by going inside.

 

Time with the Heat

 

O’Neal said Heat president Pat Riley challenged him, expecting another ring when he got to Miami. The candid convo inspired him to lose about 40 pounds, and he was second in MVP voting in his first year with the club. 

 

Riley also said that he could give Shaq the money he wanted, but the team would have no one , or he could take less and he would be able to bring back the other pieces. Shaq said, “I gotta win one before ol’ boy gets one,” referring to Bryant.

 

After winning in 2006, Riley still sent letters to his players about his expectations for the upcoming seasons. 

 

Other notable revelations:

 

Udonis Haslem was Shaq’s body fat inspector general. Still, the Big Cactus was apparently using baby oil to look ripped and dupe the evaluation.

 

When asked about his thoughts on the current club, he said the Heat need another big-time scorer.

 

O’Neal claims to be the first to get Riley to change his ways by temporarily pushing back the practice start time. The story goes Riley threatened a $1,000 fine for violating curfew. O’Neil was ready to write a $41,000 check. Riley worried about the other guys and said if it move was made “you better fucking show me something” according to Shaq.  

 

Haslem said Phil Jackson smokes left-handed cigarettes, and Riley smokes right-handed ones. Shaq approved.

 

O’Neil did his dissertation on the different styles of leadership- humorous and serious. Jackson was the former with 30% “seriousness, Riley the latter with 10% humor. O’Neal said more can get done under Jackson’s style. He also used to refer to Jacskon as his “white father.”

 

When discussing NBA contracts and how Luka Dončić could potentially be the first 100 million annual player, Haslem said the three “came out the sack too early.”

 

For more info on the Miami Heat, subscribe to Off The Floor.

 

Tua Tagovailoa has thrived in coach Mike McDaniel's offense with the Miami Dolphins.

Navigating the Storm: The Dolphins Without Tua Tagovailoa

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As the Miami Dolphins grapple with the sobering reality of losing their starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a concussion, a pressing question lingers in the air: “Now what?” With the seas of the NFL season already turbulent, the Dolphins must navigate these choppy waters without the steady hand of their offensive captain. Just two weeks into the season, they have already faced significant adversity, and now they must chart a new course without their leader.

The Dolphins have placed Tagovailoa on injured reserve, meaning he will miss at least the next four games. The earliest he can return is October 27, when the Dolphins are set to host the Arizona Cardinals. Until then, the quarterback duties fall to Skylar Thompson—at least for now. In a strategic move, the Dolphins have also signed Tyler Huntley from the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad. Initially, Huntley will serve as Thompson’s backup, but depending on performance, the depth chart could shift in the blink of an eye.

 

Upcoming Games and Adjustments

Tagovailoa’s absence will be felt acutely in the upcoming matchups against the Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans, New England Patriots, and Indianapolis Colts. These games present both a challenge and an opportunity, testing the Dolphins’ resilience as they strive to stay afloat in a demanding schedule.

Thompson finds himself in a pivotal role, stepping into the spotlight at a crucial time, yet the weight of expectations rests heavily on him. While his familiarity with the playbook could serve as an advantage, it’s important for fans to recognize that he is far from Tua.

 

The Huntley Factor

Meanwhile, Huntley’s presence adds an intriguing dynamic. Known for his ability to rise to the occasion, he has demonstrated flashes of talent during his time with the Ravens. Should Thompson falter, the coaching staff will need to consider a shift that could redefine the team’s trajectory.

 

A Long Road Ahead

With Tagovailoa sidelined, the Dolphins have an opportunity to regroup during this critical juncture. This period allows him to work closely with medical professionals, ensuring a thorough recovery while minimizing the risk of further injury. Research underscores the importance of this time; players face heightened risks for additional concussions shortly after an initial injury, making careful management essential for Tagovailoa’s long-term health.

For now, Miami must adapt and find ways to limit the damage while keeping their playoff hopes alive. The coming weeks will be a testament to their resilience and strategic acumen as they endeavor to weather the storm without their captain at the helm.

 

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The Dolphins Need a Backup Plan, and They Need It Now

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Last night was a gut-wrenching loss for the Miami Dolphins, as they fell once again to their division rival Buffalo Bills, this time under the national spotlight of primetime. To make matters worse, the game wasn’t even close. The real heartbreak, however, came when Tua Tagovailoa suffered yet another concussion, casting serious doubt over his future in the NFL. While Tua’s health and well-being are the utmost priority, the Dolphins must prepare for the worst-case scenario — if Tua decides to hang up his cleats, the team needs a backup plan, and it needs one fast.

Miami is in win-now mode. Skylar Thompson, the current backup, hasn’t shown enough to be the solution. The Dolphins cannot afford to let a tragic Week 2 game derail their entire season. They need to address the question looming over the franchise: What happens if Tua can’t return? The answer needs to be found now.

 

While the options are limited this late in the season, here’s a breakdown of potential quarterback replacements for Miami in this worst-case scenario:

 

Ryan Tannehill

Familiar Face, Familiar Fit

Tannehill knows Miami like the back of his hand. Having previously played for the Dolphins, his familiarity with the city and the organization means minimal adjustment time. While he’s not at the peak of his career, Tannehill could provide the stability Miami needs with his experience in Mike McDaniel’s system. He may not be the flashiest option, but his ability to manage games could give the Dolphins a fighting chance in a tough AFC race.

 

 

Josh Dobbs

Underrated Talent, Intriguing Upside

Dobbs is currently stuck behind other quarterbacks, making him a potential trade target. His mobility and understanding of complex offenses make him an interesting fit for Miami’s dynamic attack. With a strong supporting cast like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Dobbs might unlock his full potential. His athleticism would also add a new wrinkle to the Dolphins’ offensive scheme.

 

Jameis Winston

High-Risk, High-Reward

Currently a backup with the Cleveland Browns, Winston brings a unique combination of experience and playmaking ability. His willingness to push the ball downfield could mesh well with Miami’s offensive weapons, especially with speedsters like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle on the outside. However, Winston’s turnover issues are well-documented. If Miami is willing to roll the dice, Winston could be an electrifying addition — as long as they can mitigate the risks inherent in his style of play.

 

Davis Mills

Efficient, Not Exceptional

Mills showed during his time with the Houston Texans that he can manage games. His numbers suggest he’s capable of throwing for over 3,000 yards and a solid number of touchdowns, though his interception rate remains a concern. Still, Mills is young, experienced, and has the tools to be a capable backup. For a team like Miami, in need of a steady hand, Mills could provide a bridge to stability while they figure out the longer-term future at quarterback.

 

Sam Howell

Potential Future Star

Howell’s college career was filled with highlight-reel plays, and while his NFL journey has been up and down, his raw talent is undeniable. He possesses a strong arm and mobility, two traits that would fit nicely in Miami’s system. Howell is young and could develop into a star with the right coaching and patience. While he’s more of a project, the potential for long-term success makes him an intriguing, albeit risky, option for the Dolphins.

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa walks off the field with coach Mike McDaniel and trainers after sustaining a concussion Thursday night against the Buffalo Bills.

Pressure Point: Dolphins, Tagovailoa again at crossroads over QB’s concussion concerns

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Just when it seemed a Thursday night gone awry in prime time couldn’t get worse for the Miami Dolphins, their worst fears materialized.

A third verified concussion in the past two years for Tua Tagovailoa has overnight reduced the various concerns about a football team coming off a 31-10 trouncing by its biggest nemesis to a simple human level:

#prayfortua.

That was trending No. 1 on Friday morning, and really, that’s all that matters right now.

The questions about the star-crossed quarterback’s future not only in football but in life are again in the crosshairs of conversation.

It resurrected the memory of another ill-fated Thursday night in 2022 when Tua was taken off the field in Cincinnati on a stretcher after being knocked senseless, his contorted fingers indicative of severe neurological distress.

Should Tagovailoa continue in the NFL?

This time, Tua eventually walked to the locker room on his own after a jarring hit on a fourth-down scramble ended his night and cast a shroud of uncertainty over the Dolphins season and more.

Wobbled would be a more accurate description of his exit, which brought to mind a boxer disoriented in the aftermath of a knockout.

The question of whether Tagovailoa should continue to play NFL football is already taking precedence over when he might return. As well it should.

That will be determined by the opinions of his doctors and family rather than armchair tweeters who cheer the big hits which are such a part of the NFL allure while paying lip service to CTE, too often the product of all that highlight-reel impact.

My gut feeling is Tagovailoa will return when he’s able, because he is an NFL warrior at heart. That was evident when he bolted from the pocket on fourth-and-4 at the Buffalo 13 with 4:36 remaining in the third quarter.

He easily had the four yards needed for the first down. Instead of taking the wise option of a safe slide, Tagovailoa elected to plow into Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin.

Bills Hamlin expresses concern for Tagovailoa

In the moment, he was trying to inspire a team that was sleep-walking through an abysmal performance as he did four days earlier with a fiery halftime speech.

He paid the price, and it remains to be seen the ultimate cost for Tua, the person as well as the player the team recently invested $212.4 million over four years.

Hamlin extended his hopes for Tagovailoa’s recovery. The memory is fresh of Hamlin going into cardiac arrest on the field in Cincinnati after a hit to the chest at the end of the 2022 season. He was saved by CPR and spent two days in a medically induced coma.

Understandably, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel appeared shell-shocked after the game. He described Tagovailoa as “in good spirits” and wisely declined to speculate about his quarterback’s future.

“From a medical standpoint, I don’t approach things that I’m far inferior of expertise,” McDaniel said. “I’m just there to support my teammate. I think … for me to go ahead and forecast things that I don’t know in my non-field of expertise, I don’t think that’s appropriate.”

Numerous Dolphins shortcomings evident before Tua’s injury

Certainly, on-field concerns are secondary at the moment. McDaniel, though, must immediately begin dealing with a slew of issues with a team that appeared utterly lost on its home field Thursday.

Tua threw three interceptions, including a pick-6 while attempting to throw the ball away. He was under pressure due to the collapse of the left side of the offensive line with backups Lester Cotton and Kendall Lamm filling in for starters Robert Jones and Terron Armstead, both out with shoulder injuries.

The lack of depth at wide receiver in the injury absence of Odell Beckham Jr., River Cracraft and Malik Washington appeared to be a contributing factor in the other two interceptions on passes intended for Grant DuBose and Robbie Chosen, both late additions to the roster after the preseason.

The only bright spot for the Dolphins was second-year running back De’Von Achane, who accounted for 165 yards of offense (96 yards rushing, 69 yards receiving) and scored their only touchdown.

What stood out in the final analysis was how much the Dolphins regressed since the end of last season against the team that stands in the way of their aspirations in the AFC East.

The Bills completely negated Miami’s speed factor. They were more aggressive on offense and defense. They were stronger up front, controlled both sides of the line of scrimmage. They exhibited a significant talent advantage.

They were much better prepared and more competently coached.

It wasn’t even close.

Tagovailoa’s health vital to Dolphins’ fortunes

Some of those issues were evident in the season opener but masked by the comeback win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Still, the Dolphins are 1-1. Every NFL season is like a long trek over the Alps, full of twisting turns and many ups and downs.

But a Dolphins franchise without a playoff win since the 2000 season put all of its cards on the imperative of a healthy Tagovailoa.

My concerns about Tua as a franchise quarterback have always been less about his capability than about his ability to stay on the field.

After avoiding injury and making every start last season, his health and future are again in the spotlight.

How that impacts the fortunes of the team, it’s management and players will unfold over time. The immediate focus must be for Tagovailoa and his well being.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

Tua Tagovailoa consoles rival QB Josh Allen after the Dolphins' win against the Bills.

5 Keys to the Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills TNF Showdown

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Tonight, the Miami Dolphins host their division rival Buffalo Bills under the bright lights of Primetime. Here are five critical factors that could tilt the game in Miami’s favor:

1. Disrupting Josh Allen’s Comfort Zone

Buffalo fans aren’t wrong when they say Josh Allen has owned the Dolphins—because historically, he has. Allen has consistently torn Miami apart, and even defensive mastermind Vic Fangio struggled to contain him last season. While Allen had a few rough outings in 2023, his meetings with Miami have often been clinics in domination. If the Dolphins want any chance of flipping the script, they must find a way to make Allen uncomfortable, even if it’s just enough to slow him down. Without his top target, Stefon Diggs, Allen still finds a way, often with his legs, converting key third downs and scrambling in the red zone when the Dolphins think they have him cornered. Miami must stay disciplined and find a way to contain him.

2. Establish the Ground Game

Miami’s running game will be tested without Raheem Mostert and potentially De’Von Achane, who is questionable. This could put the spotlight on rookie Jaylen Wright and veteran Jeff Wilson Jr. While Buffalo’s defense remains tough, the loss of linebacker Matt Milano (torn bicep) leaves them a little thinner. If Miami can establish a solid running attack, it will make their lethal passing game even more dangerous. Opening up the ground game will give Tua the space he needs to do what Miami does best—light up defenses.

3. Exploit Buffalo’s Weakened Secondary

Buffalo’s secondary is far from what it once was. Gone are stalwarts like Tre’Davious White and Jordan Poyer, now with the Dolphins, while cornerback Taron Johnson is also out. The opportunity is there for Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to feast on mismatches. The Dolphins need to attack early and often, and not shy away from taking deep shots. If Miami’s wideouts can break free, this could be a long night for Buffalo’s defense.

 

 

Tua Tagovailoa says he doesn't feel pressure going into next season on the final year of his contract.

4. Tua Time

There’s no denying it—Tua Tagovailoa has struggled to keep up with Josh Allen in head-to-head matchups. While a lot of that has come in frigid Buffalo, his performances at home against the Bills haven’t been stellar either. This game represents yet another prime opportunity for Tua to flip the narrative. With Buffalo’s secondary looking vulnerable, Tua will need to take full advantage of the mismatches.

5. Winning the Battle in the Trenches

Leading to the last key: The offensive line. Buffalo’s defensive front is no joke, with Gregory Rousseau leading the charge. Rousseau is fresh off a dominant three-sack performance and was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. The Dolphins’ O-line will need to hold strong against a fierce pass rush to give Tua the time he needs to connect with his speedsters downfield. If Miami’s protection falters, it could be a long night in the pocket for Tua.

 

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Tagovailoa “Emotional” Watching Tyreek Hill Body Cam Video, Other Dolphins Notes

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Just hours before the Dolphins’ season opener at Hard Rock Stadium, a tense moment unfolded as Miami star Tyreek Hill found himself at the center of a contentious traffic stop. After being pulled over for speeding, the situation quickly escalated, with Miami-Dade police officers forcibly removing Hill from his vehicle, a scene vividly captured on recently released body cam footage. The incident has sparked widespread debate on police conduct.

 

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa shared his reaction to the footage Tuesday afternoon. “It could have been de-escalated in a different way. I don’t think it was handled the right way,” Tagovailoa said. “Hearing Tyreek’s voice was emotional for me. In my opinion, the whole thing could’ve gone differently.”

 

The Dolphins organization has voiced its concern over the incident, calling the officers’ actions “overly aggressive.” Meanwhile, public sentiment on platforms like X has been mixed, with some rallying behind Hill and others questioning his response during the stop. The event underscores broader issues of police conduct.

 

Jaylen Wright Time?

As the Dolphins gear up for their Thursday night showdown against the Buffalo Bills, attention has shifted to the team’s running back depth. Injuries to Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane have opened the door for rookie Jaylen Wright to potentially make his mark in a significant way. And if there’s one thing Wright brings to the table in spades, it’s speed.

 

In Mike McDaniel’s offense, speed is the currency that fuels big plays, and Wright’s got it in abundance. Speed, speed, speed—it’s the essential trait to be a running back in McDaniel’s system. Wright, who clocked an eye-popping 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at the combine, fits seamlessly into this mold. He’s not just fast—he’s blazing fast. His breakaway ability was on full display during his college career at Tennessee, where he led the team in rushing for two seasons.

 

But Wright is more than a one-dimensional burner. His versatility makes him a Swiss Army knife in the backfield. Not only can he slice through defenses as a runner, but he’s also shown he can handle pass protection—an invaluable trait for earning playing time in key situations. It’s this combination of skills that has the Dolphins excited about what Wright can do on the field.

 

The Dolphins clearly saw something special in Wright, trading up in the draft to grab him, giving up a future third-round pick in the process. McDaniel, known for his innovative offensive schemes, likely envisions Wright as a vital piece in a dynamic backfield—a player who can contribute as both a runner and a receiver. Whether it’s stretching the field with his speed or protecting Tua in passing downs, Wright has the tools to be more than just a temporary fill-in.

 

Wright’s story is one of perseverance. He overcame significant personal challenges, including periods of homelessness, sleeping at friends’ houses, when his father struggled to find work. His journey from adversity to the NFL resonates deeply and provides an inspiring backdrop to his potential breakout moment on the field.

 

In the preseason, Wright gave fans a glimpse of what he’s capable of, with his quick cuts and a touchdown. Now, with the Dolphins potentially shorthanded, he’s poised to take on an even larger role. Should Mostert and Achane be sidelined, Wright could be thrust into a prime spot to showcase his talents on Thursday and make an immediate impact.

 

As the Dolphins prepare for their pivotal divisional matchup, all eyes will be on Jaylen Wright, whose speed, vision, and versatility could prove to be exactly what Miami needs to keep their offense rolling against a tough Bills defense.

Mateo’s Hoop Diary: James Johnson’s convo about his Heat tenure on The OGs podcast

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Former Miami Heatle James Johnson stopped by for his turn on The OGs podcast. Between him and Udonis Haslem, there hasn’t been so much muscle in a space since Peter Clemenza and Rocco Lampone schemed to take out Pauli Gatto in The Godfather.    

 

JJ’s combination of stature and weight- 6-foot-7 and 240 pounds- plus black belt status was rare and perhaps the perfect archetype for an ancient NBA enforcer. Opponents who got in his face didn’t know how much danger they were in. Remember, he’s undefeated in three mixed martial arts fights and started training at age five.

 

Serge Ibaka once had the temerity to get physical with JJ. He caught a two-piece in the face and instantly realized his heart wasn’t in it. Johnson served a one-game suspension. 

 

He was the teammate you wanted if things got hot on the court with a rival or when you wanted to go out for a good time. 

 

Who can forget when he backed up Goran Dragić after Robert Covington’s shove?

 

And he was the first to defend Hassan Whiteside when Taurean Prince slammed him.

 

Johnson was drafted 16th by the Chicago Bulls in 2009. He didn’t play that many minutes that year but was satisfied because he got to watch Derrick Rose’s ascension.

 

Then, seven years later, he landed in Miami with the Heat after two stops with Toronto, one with Sacramento and Memphis, and with G-League squads Rio Grande Valley and Iowa.

 

Johnson said the Heat’s never-settle mentality was encouraging and required the best version of oneself. He lost “35-to-40 pounds” transitioning with the group and still keeps the same personal chef from that time, whom Haslem recommended.

 

He spoke highly of coach Erik Spoelstra. “[He is] another person that won’t let you settle… meets you halfway. We can be in [the film room], and he’ll be like, ‘Do you guys want me to figure it out, or are you guys going to figure it out?’”

 

On top of that, Spoelstra has some of Heat president Pat Riley’s blunt delivery, based on JJ’s revelations. Spoelstra said once, “I feel weakness in this group.” So practice included teammates discussing their shortcomings and those of their peers. JJ remarked, “Everybody was sitting in that joint tensed up.”

 

In the 2016-17 season, the team’s first after Dwyane Wade left, Johnson was one of the pivotal pieces of the Heat’s 30-11 second-half season spurt. “We [were] the hottest team on the planet… when we [were] done with that year, I dropped tears,” he said. They infamously went 11-30 to start. 

 

He performed so well that the Heat rewarded him with a four-year, $60 million contract.

 

The spiders say Riley was not thrilled with his weight for the training camp before he was moved. The Heat’s president argued with Johnson’s agent about it. The squad then traded him to the Minnesota Timberwolves in February 2020 as part of a three-team deal that brought back Andre Iguodala, Jae Crowder and Solomon Hill to Miami from the Memphis Grizzlies. The Heat sent Dion Waiters and Justise Winslow to Memphis. 

 

Of note: Johnson was a natural guest in his first-ever podcast appearance.

 

 If the kickboxing world were what it is today years ago, he would’ve stuck with fighting, he said on the show.

 

Haslem asked what he could do if he started training seriously for a fight with UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. Johnson thinks he’d beat the man. 

 

Johnson is like former Heat assistant coach and 1975 NBA MVP Bob McAdoo in that he quickly develops skills for any hobby. He’s got a decent golf swing and can breakdance. 

 

His introduction to basketball was agreeing to play a three-on-three tournament with his best friend.

 

Haslem was a witness to Johnson’s wedding. 

 

Johnson is now a reserve with the Pacers and a respected locker room voice. He has become his group’s Haslem, unofficially spreading Heat culture. “Same thing I tell all the other guys- [Obi Toppin], [Tyrese Haliburton]- a lot of the things that [Haslem] preached to me, got me through dark days and stuff like that, I definitely share all that with them.”

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Mateo’s Hoop Diary: Grading Angel Reese’s rookie season

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One of Angel Reese’s top games of the season unexpectedly became her last. She punished the Los Angeles Sparks at close range on rim rolls, putbacks, and face-up moves but hurt her wrist on a fall, prematurely closing a historic rookie year. Her absence will make it harder for the unit to maintain the eighth seed over the Atlanta Dream. There is only one game of separation in the standings.

 

Reese was the third-best Chicago Sky player behind Chennedy Carter and Marina Mabrey. Mabrey was traded to the Connecticut Sun on July 17. Her future is as bright as the reflecting light from Venus.

 

She averaged 13.6 points on 39.1% shooting with 13.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals and 0.5 blocks. Aside from a few stat padding incidents, her biggest issue was scoring. The tally at 0-5 feet was 44.5% accuracy, a hideous mark for the league leader in attempts at that zone. And she made 16 of 55 jumpers between mid and long-range. 

 

Improving her playmaking is necessary, too. She averages more giveaways (2.2) than  dimes (1.9). 

 

Yet, the 2024 SEC Player of the Year and recent WNBA All-Star’s hustle added much to the Sky. She is the league leader in rebounding and second-chance points average/total. Her screening is an effective separator. And she gets to the line fifth-most in the league. Her split at the line is 73.6%, an acceptable mark, but her goal should be cracking at least 80%.

 

The Bayou Barbie was a swinging ball and chain on defense, blowing up the back line as well. It should not surprise anyone if she is voted to either of the two WNBA All-Defensive teams.

 

She must spend the whole offseason (after recovery) working with a former pro she’s comfortable with. Perhaps Shaquille O’Neal, an admirer of her talent, friend and former legendary NBA center, could teach her his deadly drop-step hook. That’s the type of signature move she needs to carve up defenses consistently.

 

Saturday night, she posted, “I never would have imagined the last bucket of my rookie season would be a 3 but maybe that was God saying give them a taste of what they will be seeing more of in Year 2 lol.”

 

Adding the deep shot is a plus and will help her team. But becoming a stretch four is not the way. Reese should take open looks if the defense disrespects her, but she should be at close range as often as possible to score easier, take more charity shots and keep snagging rebounds at a high clip. 

 

Reese was a game-changer through 34 outings. Her season gets a B+.


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It’s Time for the Dolphins to Pay Jevon Holland

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It’s time to give Jevon Holland his due.

 

In a moment that could have sealed Miami’s fate, Dolphins safety Jevon Holland delivered a game-altering play when the Dolphins trailed 17-7 against the Jacksonville Jaguars in their home opener. With Jacksonville’s offense knocking on the door inside the red zone, QB Trevor Lawrence handed the ball to a dangerous Travis Etienne. With blockers ahead and an open lane, it looked certain that Etienne would plunge into the end zone for his second touchdown of the day, further stretching the Jaguars’ lead.

 

But that was before he ran into Jevon Holland. In a display of perfect timing and instinct, Holland met Etienne at the 2-yard line and delivered a textbook punch to the football, dislodging it with surgical precision. In an instant, what seemed like a guaranteed touchdown evaporated. The loose ball tumbled forward into the end zone, where Dolphins cornerback Kader Kohou dove on it, securing a touchback and giving Miami possession of the ball. The play was nothing short of clutch, a shining example of how Holland thrives in critical moments. You can’t coach that kind of playmaking—it’s an instinct, a skill that only a few possess.

 

The impact of that forced fumble was enormous. Without it, the Jaguars would have likely pushed the score to 24-7, a daunting lead. Instead, Miami flipped the script in the blink of an eye. On the very next play, the Dolphins offense went 80 yards for a touchdown, turning a potential 17-point deficit into a 14-point swing. Suddenly, Miami was back in the game, and the momentum was firmly on their side. Once again, it was Jevon Holland—perhaps not the flashiest name on the Dolphins’ star-studded defense—who came up with the play when the team needed it the most.

Week after week, Miami Dolphins safety Jevon Holland seems to be at the center of a pivotal play, and this past Sunday was no different

As the Dolphins eye the postseason, one thing is clear: Jevon Holland is the heartbeat of their defense. He’s not just a rising star; he’s a game-changer, someone who consistently shows up when it matters most. Holland, who is due for a contract extension after seeing teammates Jaylen Waddle and Tua Tagovailoa secure their big-money deals, has earned his spot among the NFL’s elite.

 

His ability to produce game-changing plays week in and week out makes him invaluable, and the Dolphins would be wise to lock him up for the long haul.