Rockets shut down Aldridge, beat Blazers, avoid elimination

Basketball Hot News

Report: Bryan Colangelo ‘a leading candidate to run the Detroit Pistons’

The Toronto Raptors earned the No. 3 seed with five starters Bryan Colangelo acquired and a head coach Colangelo hired. All five of the starters have contracts favorable to the team, and Dwane Casey finished fifth in Coach of the Year voting.

Is it time to re-think Colangelo’s tenure as Raptors’ general manager?

The Detroit Pistons are reportedly taking a closer look.

Michael Grange of SportsNet:

After a year on hiatus multiple NBA sources have told Sportsnet that he’s close to joining the fray again and is a leading candidate to run the Detroit Pistons.

First, I wouldn’t read too much into the words “leading candidate.” Quite possibly, that description comes across as stronger than intended. The Pistons’ search is expected to be lengthy, and I wouldn’t rush to call any candidate who hasn’t even been reported to interview – especially when the source is someone who has identified only one candidate – leading.

As for Colangelo himself, ehhh.

He has strong front-office experience, but he’s also already had a chance as a general manager and – even if hindsight treats his record kindly – didn’t exactly excel. Colangelo acquired all five Raptors’ starters, but he also traded for Rudy Gay and drafted and extended Andrea Bargnani. If Masai Ujiri hadn’t cleaned up those mistakes, the Raptors wouldn’t be where they are now.

How much credit does Colangelo get for acquiring Terrence Ross, a Toronto starter, when Colangelo could have drafted Andre Drummond instead? How much credit does Colangelo get for signing DeMar DeRozan to if DeRozan never would have been an All-Star with Gay around?

Colangelo made some good moves, because he made a lot of moves. His record on the whole is not great.

He probably warrants a look by the Pistons in their wide search, but the onus would be heavy on Colangelo to persuade them he’s not the uninspiring choice he appears to be.

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Seahawks to make Earl Thomas highest-paid safety

Earl Thomas, who will average $10 million a season, has reason to celebrate. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro days | Top free agents

Earl Thomas, one of the league's best young safeties, will now be paid like it. A source with knowledge of the situation tells CBS Sports NFL insider Jason La Canfora that Thomas will have four new years added to the final year of his rookie contract, and he'll get $40 million in new money.

That will make Seattle's 2010 first-round pick the highest paid safety in the game roughly five weeks after Jairus Byrd earned that honor with the six-year, $54 million free-agency deal he inked with the Saints.

Thomas ranked ninth among all NFL safeties in 2013, according to ProFootballFocus.com, just behind Byrd, the Chargers' Eric Weddle, and the Chiefs' Eric Berry, all players who will make north of $8 million next season. (The Patriots' Devin McCourty ranked first.)

Next up: The Seahawks are trying to lock up cornerback Richard Sherman to a mega-deal.

Seahawks also zeroing in on a deal that would make Richard Sherman highest paid CB in the game. Hopeful it's done before the draft as well

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 28, 2014

NFL Hot News

Jaguars RB Toby Gerhart says he's ready to 'be a dominant guy'



The Jaguars didn't give running back Toby Gerhart a three-year, $10.5 million contract to continue being a backup. Head coach Gus Bradley said he thinks Gerhart can be a bell-cow runner, and after spending four years behind the game's premier workhorse, Gerhart said he is ready to carry the burden."I had the skill set to be a [NFL] starter from the onset," Gerhart said to the Florida Times-Union. "... I've gotten comfortable with the speed of the game, but don't have the wear and tear on my body of someone carrying it 250 times a year."I think I'm in a unique situation. Even though it's my fifth year in the league, I can come in and be a dominant guy. I'm ready for my shot now."The Times-Union's Gene Frenette adds that the Jaguars are "banking on" Gerhart being productive with a possible workload of 240-300 carries. Gerhart's career-high in carries is 109, set back in 2011.



I have not been a supporter of the Gerhart signing -- I just don't think he's that good of a running back -- but if the Jaguars insist of giving him 250+ touches, fantasy owners have to take serious note. That number makes him an easy top-20 running back. Gerhart is a proficient receiver, too, so you have to imagine that the Jags will try to utilize that part of Gerhart's game often. Even if he doesn't put up an impressive yards-per-carry average, Gerhart is probably going to put up good totals just due to sheer bulk.

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Grizzlies survive Thunder in OT, take 3-2 series lead

Basketball Hot News

Report: Bulls will try to trade Carlos Boozer before considering amnesty

Does Carlos Boozer hold positive or negative value?

By that, I mean would any team absorb Boozer and his contract ($16.8 million next season and then expires) if the rules allowed? If yes, he has positive value. If not, he has negative value.

The answer could determine how the Bulls handle Boozer this summer.

Marc Stein of ESPN:

You continue to hear rumbles that Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf is adamantly against the idea of setting Boozer free via amnesty

Sources briefed on Chicago’s thinking say the Bulls are going to do everything they can to try to find a trading partner for Boozer before seriously considering the amnesty option.

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For the Bulls to land Carmelo Anthony – their mutual interest has been reported throughout the season – it would almost certainly mean dumping Boozer.

If Boozer has positive trade value, it shouldn’t be hard to find a taker – maybe even the Knicks in a sign-and-trade – if Chicago wants to free the cap room for Melo or any other free agent.

But if Boozer holds negative trade value, the choice becomes much more complicated.

Amnestying Boozer, if done to improve the team,* would be expensive. Reinsdorf would have to pay Boozer his $16.8 million salary and spend that freed money on a replacement. Essentially, he’d be paying double for one roster slot.

*Even if amnestied, Boozer’s salary paid by the Bulls would continue to count toward their salary floor. So, theoretically, they don’t have to spend money on a replacement. But then what’s the point? Why not just keep Boozer?

The alternative would be attaching a sweetener (a draft pick or player with positive value) to entice another team to take Boozer off Chicago’s hands.

The Bulls’ basketball people would surely prefer to amnesty Boozer. They don’t want to lose an asset to avoid paying him. His salary doesn’t come out of their checks.

But the bean counters might see it another way, preferring to save $16.8 million – and maybe even a little more by trading a first-round pick in the process.

If they can’t trade Boozer without attaching a sweetener, it might be up to the Bulls’ basketball people to persuade the bean counters the move is worthwhile despite the immediate added cost.

Maybe a marketable player like Melo helps the Bulls recoup that money.

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NFL looking into Redskins-themed AR-15 weapon

The NFL is investigating the unauthorized use of the Skins' logo. (CBS DC)

A burgundy and gold, Washington Redskins-themed AR-15 popped up at a DC-area gun show over the weekend, and the NFL, unsurprisingly, has begun an investigation into the unauthorized use of the team's logo, spokesman Greg Aiello said.

The gun appeared at the Capitol Gun Show over the weekend, and the league took notice since it doesn't/hasn't/will likely never approve of its teams' logos on firearms.

The same gun, retailing for $2,000, was at one point available at an online gun distributor. The description reads, in part: “Angels will be heard singing ‘Hail to the Redskins' as you feast your eyes on this one-of-a-kind tribute to our nation's capitol home team.” The rest of the description is even more bizarre.

All firearms are strictly forbidden at every NFL facility.

NFL Hot News

Jaguars RB Toby Gerhart says he's ready to 'be a dominant guy'



The Jaguars didn't give running back Toby Gerhart a three-year, $10.5 million contract to continue being a backup. Head coach Gus Bradley said he thinks Gerhart can be a bell-cow runner, and after spending four years behind the game's premier workhorse, Gerhart said he is ready to carry the burden."I had the skill set to be a [NFL] starter from the onset," Gerhart said to the Florida Times-Union. "... I've gotten comfortable with the speed of the game, but don't have the wear and tear on my body of someone carrying it 250 times a year."I think I'm in a unique situation. Even though it's my fifth year in the league, I can come in and be a dominant guy. I'm ready for my shot now."The Times-Union's Gene Frenette adds that the Jaguars are "banking on" Gerhart being productive with a possible workload of 240-300 carries. Gerhart's career-high in carries is 109, set back in 2011.



I have not been a supporter of the Gerhart signing -- I just don't think he's that good of a running back -- but if the Jaguars insist of giving him 250+ touches, fantasy owners have to take serious note. That number makes him an easy top-20 running back. Gerhart is a proficient receiver, too, so you have to imagine that the Jags will try to utilize that part of Gerhart's game often. Even if he doesn't put up an impressive yards-per-carry average, Gerhart is probably going to put up good totals just due to sheer bulk.

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Sources: Saints won’t pick up Ingram’s 2015 option

Mark Ingram finished strong in 2013, but not enough to earn a $5 million commitment for 2015. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro Days | Top free agents

Sources tell CBSSports.com the New Orleans Saints do not intend to exercise the fifth-year option on running back Mark Ingram for the 2015 season.

Ingram, who was drafted in the first round in 2011, was worthy of some consideration with a very strong late push last season after being little used for much of his pro career previously.

Ingram was due to make $5 million in 2015 on the option, a high figure for a running back in this era, but a figure he might surpass in 2015 earnings on the open market should he perform well in 2014.

NFL Hot News

Jaguars RB Toby Gerhart says he's ready to 'be a dominant guy'



The Jaguars didn't give running back Toby Gerhart a three-year, $10.5 million contract to continue being a backup. Head coach Gus Bradley said he thinks Gerhart can be a bell-cow runner, and after spending four years behind the game's premier workhorse, Gerhart said he is ready to carry the burden."I had the skill set to be a [NFL] starter from the onset," Gerhart said to the Florida Times-Union. "... I've gotten comfortable with the speed of the game, but don't have the wear and tear on my body of someone carrying it 250 times a year."I think I'm in a unique situation. Even though it's my fifth year in the league, I can come in and be a dominant guy. I'm ready for my shot now."The Times-Union's Gene Frenette adds that the Jaguars are "banking on" Gerhart being productive with a possible workload of 240-300 carries. Gerhart's career-high in carries is 109, set back in 2011.



I have not been a supporter of the Gerhart signing -- I just don't think he's that good of a running back -- but if the Jaguars insist of giving him 250+ touches, fantasy owners have to take serious note. That number makes him an easy top-20 running back. Gerhart is a proficient receiver, too, so you have to imagine that the Jags will try to utilize that part of Gerhart's game often. Even if he doesn't put up an impressive yards-per-carry average, Gerhart is probably going to put up good totals just due to sheer bulk.

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Heat owner: ’100 percent chance’ Big Three stay

100 percent chance the Big Three are back in Miami next year? (USATSI)

More postseason coverage: Playoff schedule, results | Latest news, notes

Whether or not the Miami Heat are able to win a third straight NBA championship this postseason, the Big Three who came together as teammates in 2010 will all have important decisions to make about their futures. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh all have the opportunity to opt out of their deals this summer and become unrestricted free agents.

That doesn't worry Miami Heat owner Micky Arison right now though. According to the Palm Beach Post, Arison was recently on the radio in Miami and he said there was a "100 percent" likelihood of keeping James, Wade, and Bosh with the Heat.

Based on everyone's comments throughout the season, everything points toward LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh staying in Miami beyond this season. All three are on long-term deals with the freedom to opt out after this year.

The most recent indication that those three will stay, be it through not opting out or by opting out and signing longer contracts, is from owner Micky Arison. When asked Monday by 790 The Ticket to give a percentage chance of keeping them with the Heat, he responded, “100 percent.”

Not all three players have to opt out of their current deals this summer, although it's expected they will just to keep fitting in more years at big money in their careers. All three players are signed for just over $20 million next season, but have the opportunity to execute an early termination option this summer to become free agents. If they don't execute that option, they'll have a player option on the 2015-16 season for just over $22 million they could exercise.

We could see some combination of James, Wade and Bosh opting out this summer or opting in for next season. It's expected that LeBron and Wade will opt out and try to grab even longer long-term security with another big deal. Bosh could do the same. The Heat have eight players with expiring contracts this season and will have the chance to reshape the supporting cast surrounding the Big Three, but they would need incoming players to take discounts.

Topics: Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Miami Heat, NBA

Basketball Hot News

Dallas’ DeJuan Blair suspended for Game 5 due to kick to Tiago Splitter’s head

Mavericks fans may want to argue it was not intentional, he was just trying to get untangled after a fall, but the NBA league office sees it differently. And now Dallas’ path to a crucial Game 5 win just got more difficult.

Dallas big man DeJuan Blair has been suspended for Game 5 of the team’s series against San Antonio for a fourth-quarter kick to Tiago Splitter‘s head, the league announced on Tuesday.

Blair was big in Dallas’ dramatic Game 4 comeback at home, scoring 12 points and pulling down 11 rebounds. His energy on both ends of the court was key for the Mavs, and when he was ejected for the foul and kick to the head with 3 minutes left in regulation the Mavs could not sustain their momentum and pick up a win.

It was clear Blair’s foot contacted Splitter’s head, however he said after the game it was unintentional. Intended or not, the league is going to frown on kicks to player’s heads.

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Spurs hold off Mavericks in Game 4, pull even in series

Basketball Hot News

Clippers’ player wonders whether he could cite ‘hostile work environment’ to get out of contract

When a rival owner proposes making all the Clippers’ players – including highly coveted Chris Paul and Blake Griffin – free agents, that’s one thing.

When a Clippers player proposes getting out of his contract, that’s something else entirely.

Stuart Pfeifer, Ben Bolch and James Rainey of the Los Angeles Times:

One Clippers player wondered in a conversation with The Times whether he could get out of his contract by citing Sterling for creating a “hostile work environment.” The player declined to be identified because team members were told not to discuss the matter.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (emphasis mine):

Harassment is unwelcome conduct that is based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Harassment becomes unlawful where 1) enduring the offensive conduct becomes a condition of continued employment, or 2) the conduct is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive. Anti-discrimination laws also prohibit harassment against individuals in retaliation for filing a discrimination charge, testifying, or participating in any way in an investigation, proceeding, or lawsuit under these laws; or opposing employment practices that they reasonably believe discriminate against individuals, in violation of these laws.

Petty slights, annoyances, and isolated incidents (unless extremely serious) will not rise to the level of illegality. To be unlawful, the conduct must create a work environment that would be intimidating, hostile, or offensive to reasonable people.

It seems the player would at least have a case.

The Clippers’ struggles in Game 4 could certainly be attributed to an intimidating, hostile or abusive work environment. The players definitely didn’t look comfortable on the court, and that could be due Donald Sterling’s alleged comments.

Doc Rivers furthered the perception of an intimidating work environment when he said, “We’re going home now, and usually that would mean we’re going to our safe haven, and I don’t even know if that’s true, to be honest.”

But even a finding in favor of the player wouldn’t necessarily result in a voided contract. The legal process could determine other consequences – like financial penalties – are more appropriate.

A Clippers player getting out of his contract by citing a hostile work environment is at least plausible, but it’s not necessarily an easy legal battle to win.

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Heat sweep Bobcats, win ninth straight playoff series

Basketball Hot News

Trail Blazer players, coach Terry Stotts talk legacy of Dr. Jack Ramsay

The NBA lost a legend Monday, a Hall of Famer, in Dr. Jack Ramsay.

The Portland Trail Blazers and coach spoke about Dr. Jack at their practice Monday.

If you are not familiar with his success and how people speak of him, here is NBA.com looking back at his career.

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Report: Magic eyeing purchase of Sterling’s Clippers

Magic Johnson reportedly wants to buy the Clippers. (USATSI)

More on Sterling: KJ meets with Silver | Latest Sterling news

Yahoo Sports reports that former Laker and Hall-of-Famer Magic Johnson is interested in purchasing the Los Angeles Clippers from Donald Sterling in the wake of the alleged racist comments from Sterling that broke into a firestorm of scandal this weekend.

Magic Johnson and his billionaire backers, the Guggenheim Partners, want a chance to purchase the Los Angeles Clippers, league sources told Yahoo Sports. "Magic's absolutely interested," one source closely connected to Johnson's business interests told Yahoo Sports on Sunday night.

To bail themselves out of the NBA's worst crisis of credibility since the Tim Donaghy officiating scandal, the easy part for the NBA will be enlisting the eagerness and financial muscle of Magic Johnson and Mark Walter of the Guggenheim Partners – owners of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Make no mistake: Magic's Dodgers group is angling for a Southern California sports empire. Magic Johnson and Guggenheim had been aggressive in pursuing a purchase of the Los Angeles Lakers – only to have the Buss family make clear to them the franchise isn't for sale, sources told Yahoo Sports.

"This is 100 percent Magic's plan," a league official intimately involved in the buying and selling of franchises told Yahoo Sports.

via Exit strategy for NBA, Donald Sterling: Sell Clippers to Magic Johnson - Yahoo Sports.

Johnson and his backers bought the Dodgers in March 2012 for a reported $2 billion. If this were to go through, it woud indeed make for a smooth transition and allow the NBA to sweep Sterling's tenure, which they have tolerated until this most recent fiasco, under the rug. Johnson is beloved as a national figure and in the basketball world, is well known in California, and has tremendous business acumen.

But the NBA has no authority to force the sale of the team, as of yet, and the process of extracting it in order to initiate a sale to Johnson could take some time. This is a viable solution to the overarching problem that Sterling's ownership presents to the league but not an immedate salve to the burning condition Sterling's alleged comments have caused on the league's PR.

Topics: Donald Sterling, Los Angeles Clippers, NBA

Basketball Hot News

Heat players replicate Clippers protest of Donald Sterling before Game 4 against Bobcats (VIDEO)

In case you haven’t been paying attention and didn’t yet realize just how far-reaching the remarks attributed to Clippers owner Donald Sterling have become, the defending champion Miami Heat reminded us before their Game 4 matchup against the Bobcats in Charlotte.

Just as the Clippers did on Sunday, Miami’s players shed their warmup jackets at midcourt, and went through warmups with their shirts turned inside out, devoid of any NBA logo whatsoever.

It was a nice show of solidarity from the Heat, but it was also a reminder that this story goes beyond a single franchise, and is far bigger than the game of basketball.

The NBA is set to address the situation formally in a press conference scheduled for 2 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

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Rice arraignment on assault charge pushed to Thurs.

Ray Rice is scheduled to be in court Thursday. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro Days | Top free agents

Despite the assertion of Bills linebacker Brandon Spikes that somebody should choke out Ray Rice, the Ravens running back will actually get his day in court after he was indicted last month on a third-degree aggravated assault charge after allegedly knocking his fiancee into unconsciousness.

Originally, Rice was scheduled to be arraigned Monday, but according to the Baltimore Sun, that court date has been pushed back to Thursday because of the judge's busy court docket.

After Rice and Janay Palmer got into a physical altercation at an Atlantic City casino, both were charged with simple assault-domestic violence. A leaked video later appeared to show Rice dragging Palmer's unconscious body from the hotel elevator.

Rice's charge was upgraded and he was indicted by a grand jury for "attempting to cause significant bodily injury, and/or purposely or knowing causing such injury and/or recklessly causing such injury under extreme indifference to the value of human life."

No matter what happens, Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti is on record saying that Rice "definitely" will be back with the team in 2014. Palmer most likely hopes for the same. Considering, you know, she married Rice the day after he was indicted.

If convicted of the charge, Rice could face 3-5 years in prison.

NFL Hot News

49ers targeting Texas A&M WR Mike Evans on draft day



ESPN's Chris Mortensen made it clear on Friday's SportsCenter that, more then twice, he has heard rumors the 49ers are looking to move up in the draft and "do somthing big."



According to many analysts including myself, the 49ers don't have the passing threats that they need to be competative in the new age NFL deep passing attack. The 49er wideout core today is comprised Anquan Boldin, Michael Crabtree then....... Jon Baldwin?The 49ers need another threat in their passing scheme and soon to be rookies like WR Mike Evans from Texas Aamp;M or WR Sammy Watkins from Clemson are definite commadaties to trade up for in the draft to make a splash not only on a NFL roster but our fantasy rosters. Look for both players to make an immediate impact week 1 and be great mid-round selections. Both possess WR1 talent but should be drafted conservatively as a WR2-3 as with many rookie wideouts. Already off the board for early drafters Sammy Watkins has a ADP of 65.4 (5th rnd selection) and Mike Evans 95.5 (7th-8th rnd selection).

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WSW 2-0 Central Coast: Wanderers make final

Soccer Hot News

Beckenbauer, Van der Sar back Van Gaal for United

Franz Beckenbauer and Edwin van der Sar have claimed Manchester United could not find a better manager than Louis van Gaal.

Van Gaal will quit his post as the Netherlands’ head coach after this year’s World Cup and has firmed as favourite to take over at Old Trafford, following the sacking of David Moyes this month.

The 62-year-old Dutchman has won titles in the Eredivisie, La Liga and Bundesliga, while he led Ajax Amsterdam to success in the UEFA Champions League in 1995.

Beckenbauer was president of Bayern Munich when the Bavarian club lured Van Gaal to Germany and believes the veteran coach would be ‘perfect’ for United, as the Premier League outfit look to rebuild following Moyes’ disastrous tenure.

“He would be perfect for Man United because he is an internationally experienced coach and he understands English football,” Beckenbauer told the Daily Mail.

“I don’t know if it’s a rumour or if they’re really trying to sign him (Van Gaal) but if they agree with Louis I think it would be a good part of the future.

“He won a lot of titles so he is experienced and he is ambitious. He has the personality. He has everything.”

Van Gaal won the Bundesliga-DFB Pokal double with Bayern in the 2009/10 season but was sacked in April of the next campaign as the German giants slumped to third.

But Beckenbauer remains convinced the Dutchman is ‘one of the best coaches in the world’, despite Van Gaal’s reputation for arrogance.

“If you ask him a stupid question then it can be that his answer is a bit arrogant but if you treat him with respect, then respect comes back to you,” the 68-year-old German said.

“I like him. He was also very successful with Bayern Munich. In the end there was a little discussion about the way he was handling his job so that’s why they went separate ways. But for me he’s one of the best coaches in the world.”

Van der Sar, who won the Champions League and three Eredivisie titles with Van Gaal, before finishing his career at United, rates his compatriot ahead of other former bosses, such as Alex Ferguson and Carlo Ancelotti.

“I will say more about Louis and United once his appointment is official,” the former goalkeeper told the Mirror.

“But I have made it clear here before that Louis van Gaal is the best manager I have ever played for.”

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Young look

Perhaps Vince Young will land in Cleveland. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro Days | Top free agents

As we told you last week, former Titans quarterback Vince Young has a standing job offer from the University of Texas if the NFL doesn't call him for another chance.

That job will have to be put on hold for now.

According to Fox 26 in Houston, Young will take a physical with and work out for the Browns on Monday in the hopes of landing a deal. Browns general manager Ray Farmer later confirmed the workout.

#Browns GM Ray Farmer said Vince Young has been productive, successful in #NFL, we want to see where he's at.

— Nate Ulrich (@NateUlrichABJ) April 28, 2014

The Browns, of course, have quarterback questions. Though Brian Hoyer was more than solid when he played last season, the only other quarterback on the roster is former Cowboys taxi squad player Alex Tanney. Cleveland is expected to draft a quarterback early (Johnny Manziel is a popular prediction in the CBSSports.com mock draft room), but the Browns will still need arms for offseason workouts.

Perhaps Young can be one of those arms.

After flaming out in Tennessee, Young was Michael Vick's backup with the Eagles in 2011. Young also spent time with the Bills and Packers the past couple seasons, but neither job lasted long. Last October, Young couldn't figure out why he was out of work.

"Me and my wife and all my peers and fans, we're all trying to figure this stuff out," Young said during an appearance on SiriusXM NFL Radio Wednesday. "I don't have the slightest idea. It's like a huge question mark over my head every day I wake up in the morning to take care of my responsibilities and know I should be playing. To not have one of those calls, it's tough."

That call finally came, and now, Young has yet another chance to prove he belongs to play in the NFL.

NFL Hot News

Eagles RB LeSean McCoy says he could be better with fewer touches



Darren Sproles' lead role in the Eagles' offense will probably be as a wide receiver out of the backfield and in the slot. But he will also see a few carries every week, and the combination of those touches will impact LeSean McCoy's workload. And it sounds like McCoy is fine with that after he led the league in 2013 with 366 touches."I think 366 touches is a lot," McCoy said during a Friday radio interview. "Being in the prime of my career and bringing in a guy like Sproles who can do so much, we'll work well together. I think having me fresh in the fourth quarter with fewer carries can be even more dangerous."



Interestingly, McCoy led the NFL in fourth-quarter rushing yards last year and had the highest yards-per-carry average (5.96) among those who had at least 40 carries in the quarter. It's not news to say that Sproles will eat into McCoy's workload, but it shouldn't be a huge chunk. McCoy is still going to see about 300 touches and be a high-end RB1 cinch. Sproles is an intriguing flex option in the Eagles' dynamic offense.

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Doc: Pack the place

More: Sterling issue Q&A | Latest updates | NBA findings Tuesday | NBA news

Doc Rivers has said quite a bit already about the comments allegedly made by Donald Sterling, but through the team released a statement late Monday expressing his disappointment in the remarks.

And possibly in response to Warriors coach Mark Jackson saying fans should boycott Game 5 on Wednesday, Rivers encouraged Clippers fans to show up loud and proud.

“I would like to reiterate how disappointed I am in the comments attributed to [Donald Sterling] and I can't even begin to tell you how upset I am and our players are. Today, I had a meeting with the members of our organization. When you are around all these people, you realize they are just as upset and embarrassed by the situation and it does not reflect who they really are. That was what I got from all of them. They are now a part of this and they are upset at this. But, they are all going to hang in there and so are we - I can tell you that as a group and as a team. From our fans' standpoint, I want to say that they have been amazing, I can tell you that. We need unbelievable support right now from other people and I'm hoping we get that. My hope is that whatever the fans do, it is as one. I think that is what we all should do.



“We want to make the right decisions here. We're doing our very best to try and do that. We know that fans are in a dilemma as well. We want them to cheer for their players and their team. It will always be their players and their team. From the fans that I have heard from, that's how they feel. ‘This is my team. These are my players that I'm cheering for and that's not going to change.' I hope STAPLES Center is packed and people are cheering for the players. The players are now in the middle of this, and they have to deal with it.



“We are all trying to figure out everything as it goes and just do our best and we hope that it is the right answer. I'm still going to do my best and do what I think is best for the team and for everybody in this case. It is very difficult because there are so many emotions in this. This is a very emotional subject, this is personal."



“My belief is that the longer we keep winning, the more we talk about this. I believe that is good. If we want to make a statement - I believe that is how we have to do it. I think that is the right way to do it, but that doesn't mean we still don't wrestle with it every day and every moment. That is the difficult part.



“We are all doing our best here. Our players are doing their best. There are a lot of people involved in this. From one man's comments, a lot of people have been affected and the conversations that we're all having do need to be had.”

Topics: Donald Sterling, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, NBA

Basketball Hot News

Mike Scott makes 3-pointers on four straight possessions (video)

Great (Mike) Scott!

Scott made 3-pointers on four straight possessions early in the second quarter of the Hawks’ Game 5 against the Pacers.

He added a putback and another 3-pointer, shooting 6-for-6 overall and helping Atlanta outscore the Pacers 41-19 in the period.

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European prospect Dario Saric declares for draft

More Draft: Emmert meets with owners | Early entries this year | Draft news

The agent for European prospect Dario Saric confirmed on Twitter Saturday that the 6-foot-10 Croatian forward has declared for the 2014 NBA Draft.

Dario Saric, officially, declared himself for draft 2014.

— Misko4Raznatovic (@MiskoRaznatovic) April 26, 2014

Saric has been waffling on the decision for months, with various reports indicating he was in or out every other week. He's considered to be a consensus top-20 pick, with Draft Express listing him as high as ninth in its mock draft. He comes in at No. 11, No. 16 and No. 17 on various CBSSports.com mock drafts.

He averaged 16 points, 9.5 rebounds and three assists this season for Cibona Zagreb.

Topics: 2013 NBA Draft, NBA

Basketball Hot News

Los Angeles Clippers turn warm-up shirts inside out to hide team logo in apparent protest of Donald Sterling

Adam Silver said he felt particularly sorry for the Clippers’ players and coaches during the NBA’s investigation of Donald Sterling’s alleged racist comments.

It’s not their fault the team’s owner has brought so much negative attention to the franchise during a playoff run. They’re left in an awkward position – trying to balance their own professional goals with playing for Sterling’s team.

Before today’s Game 4, Doc Rivers even admitted he’s not sure how the players are handling it.

Today, they showed their response.

Clippers take off warm-up gear, drop them at mid court t-shirts on backwards. http://t.co/FbdNBzY2Js—

Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) April 27, 2014

The Clippers took off their shooting shirts and dumped them at center court. http://t.co/Nod5QWsWJy—

Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) April 27, 2014

I'm hearing Clipper players will be turning their team-issued gear inside out (except for uniforms) for all of Game 4. #DonaldSterling—

Jalen Rose (@JalenRose) April 27, 2014

Also hearing that each Clippers player will be wearing black socks and tape. #DonaldSterling—

Jalen Rose (@JalenRose) April 27, 2014

#Clippers have black wristbands on their left wrists.—

Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) April 27, 2014

What a powerful image created by the players, hitting strong notes of protest and determination.

Matt Barnes, Reggie Bullock, Darren Collison, Jamal Crawford, Glen Davis, Jared Dudley, Danny Granger, Willie Green, Blake Griffin, Ryan Hollins, DeAndre Jordan, Chris Paul, J.J. Redick and Hedo Turkoglu are playing for themselves today – not Sterling’s Clippers.

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Lions reportedly have looked into trading DL Suh

Would Detroit be willing to get rid of Ndamukong Suh? (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro Days | Top free agents

The Lions are exploring trading standout defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, according to Bleacher Report.

Suh hasn't attended the start of Detroit's voluntary offseason workouts and he'll make a base salary of $12.55 million this season (and will count $22.4 million against the 2014 salary cap) -- and because he's considered a team leader (as well as one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL), this has struck some in the organization as disappointing.

Or, at least, a little bit curious, especially as the team tries to get integrated with a new coaching staff.

CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan explored the idea of trading Suh a few months ago -- Kirwan concluded that it might be a good idea -- and now, Detroit reportedly is talking to teams about doing exactly that.

As Mike Freeman writes, the discussions are preliminary and not necessarily serious. They're more due diligence than anything else and in Freeman's words the Lions are "covering their asses."

CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora, though, says a Lions official told him that the team is "uneqivocally" not trading Suh and that there have been no trade discussions.

I'm told Lions trying to re-sign Suh; no trade ahead. He's on the same offseason program last 3 years. Absence not contract related

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 25, 2014

But the idea that these chats are happening -- or that somebody somewhere wants us to think these chats are happening -- shows that Detroit isn't completely sure that Suh is in its future plans.

"What the Lions are doing is standard operating procedure," one team executive told Freeman. "Just in case they don't think they can sign him, they're preparing for worst case. It's smart."

Signing him won't be cheap, and it might not be easy either.

As former NFL agent Joel Corry writes, a franchise tag for Suh in 2015 would cost about $26.87 million, and that gives Suh plenty of leverage to land a friendly long-term extension with Detroit if the Lions want to keep him.

If not, they'd be letting go of a high-impact player when he's in his prime (Suh turned 27 in January).

That's why a trade, if it can find one, might be the best option for Detroit and its salary cap situation. Especially since, as Freeman writes, the team is still worried about Suh's on-field self-control.

But more than that, it's telling that Suh has decided not to show up with his teammates for offseason workouts.

More from Freeman:

"Suh is a captain beginning with a new coaching staff. This would have been the perfect time to make a positive impression on his new bosses. Instead, he decided to stay home. It's irrelevant that he could still show up to mini-camp or training camp in shape. It's more about leadership. He's a captain, and captains are usually the men who set the examples."

Whether Suh can be a leader who ultimately gets a huge payday with his current team remains to be seen.

NFL Hot News

49ers targeting Texas A&M WR Mike Evans on draft day



ESPN's Chris Mortensen made it clear on Friday's SportsCenter that, more then twice, he has heard rumors the 49ers are looking to move up in the draft and "do somthing big."



According to many analysts including myself, the 49ers don't have the passing threats that they need to be competative in the new age NFL deep passing attack. The 49er wideout core today is comprised Anquan Boldin, Michael Crabtree then....... Jon Baldwin?The 49ers need another threat in their passing scheme and soon to be rookies like WR Mike Evans from Texas Aamp;M or WR Sammy Watkins from Clemson are definite commadaties to trade up for in the draft to make a splash not only on a NFL roster but our fantasy rosters. Look for both players to make an immediate impact week 1 and be great mid-round selections. Both possess WR1 talent but should be drafted conservatively as a WR2-3 as with many rookie wideouts. Already off the board for early drafters Sammy Watkins has a ADP of 65.4 (5th rnd selection) and Mike Evans 95.5 (7th-8th rnd selection).

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Japan offers aplogy for Qatar 2022 comments

Japan's football chief has apologised to Qatar 2022 World Cup organisers after he reportedly stated his country was ready to step in as replacement hosts -- and insists he fully supports the decision to stage the tournament in the emirate.

Kuniya Daini, president of the Japan Football Association (JFA), has sent an apology to Qatar 2022 claiming he was mistranslated in an interview.

In a letter to Qatar FA president Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Bin Ahmad Al Thani, a copy of which has been seen by Press Association Sport, Daini states: "It is a fact and a decision by FIFA that [the] 2022 FIFA World Cup will be held in Qatar. We, Japan Football Association, fully support the hosting by Qatar with confidence that it will lead to further development of football in Asia.

"You will have our full support for the success of the biggest event in football."

Japan had bid against Qatar for the right to host 2022, and Tokyo is hosting the 2020 Olympics.

Daini adds in the letter: "The article... was not based on the facts or actual remarks I made during the interview.

"At the same time I wish to sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or misunderstanding this may have caused to you and all the other concerned parties."

FIFA is still looking at moving the timing of the 2022 tournament to the winter to avoid the summer heat in Qatar, and a decision is not expected until next year.

There is also an ongoing investigation into the 2018 and 2022 World Cup bidding process by FIFA's ethics committee, headed by US attorney Michael Garcia, but it appears unlikely it will lead to either Qatar or 2018 hosts Russia being stripped of the World Cup.

Qatar has also come under fire for its treatment of migrant construction workers, with FIFA saying it was shocked by the numbers of deaths and 2022 organisers pledging several commitments to ensure better treatment.

Soccer Hot News

Torino dreaming of Europe, says Ventura

Torino coach Giampiero Ventura admitted his team have exceeded expectations in Serie A, as they look to qualify for the UEFA Europa League.

The Turin-based club’s hopes of securing European football were boosted by Sunday’s 2-0 victory over lowly Udinese, which extended their unbeaten streak to five games.

Torino climbed up to sixth in the standings on 52 points, just five points adrift of Inter Milan, who occupy the fifth and final European spot with three games remaining.

This season caps a huge turnaround for Torino, who avoided relegation last campaign after finishing 16th, seven points above the drop zone.

“Let’s end the season now, then,” Ventura told Sky Sport Italia.

“We want to put ourselves up for the challenge. I will admit that from the first day of pre-season our objective was to work on a group of young and not-so-young players to create a solid group for the future.

“Clearly, now that we are up there with three rounds to go and as of today we’d be in Europe, it’s only natural that we try.

“I’m glad the fans have rediscovered the pride of cheering for the Granata.”

Ventura added: “Torino have grown in terms of mentality. We have a structure now, our own way of reading the tactical situations.

“I think that next season, based on the transfer campaign, Torino’s objective must be to do even better than this year.”

Torino end the season with trips to Chievo and Fiorentina, and a home fixture against Parma.

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Niners’ Harbaugh: David Fales is top-5 QB in draft

Is David Fales one of the top-five quarterbacks in the draft? Jim Harbaugh says yes. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro days | Top free agents

In three seasons as an NFL head coach, Jim Harbaugh has proven at least one thing: He knows a good Mountain West quarterback when he sees one.

Take former Utah quarterback Alex Smith for example. When Harbaugh arrived in San Francisco in 2011, Smith had already been with the 49ers for five pretty unsuccessful seasons. Before Harbaugh's arrival, Smith went 19-31 in 50 starts.

Instead of dumping Smith right away though, Harbaugh kept him around for two seasons and the former No. 1 overall pick went 19-5-1 in 25 starts under Harbaugh. And just in case you're wondering, during Smith's college years, Utah was in the Mountain West.

In 2011, the 49ers coach plucked former Nevada quarterback Colin Kaepernick out of the second round of the NFL Draft.

This year, Harbaugh thinks there's another Mountain West quarterback who could do some damage in the NFL: Former San Jose State quarterback David Fales.

"I'm a big fan," Harbaugh said of Fales, via the San Jose Mercury News. "My personal quarterback evaluation of this class has David in the top five."

Harbaugh didn't list his top-five, but he did list the reasons why he likes Fales.

"I think he sees the field. I think he throws the ball downfield," Harbaugh said. "A lot of quarterbacks are doing what they're taught in their systems. He's a guy that is an example of a quarterback who throws to the outside lanes. He throws the ball in the seams and gets it downfield and sees the field well. He's got a real savviness about the position."

In CBSSports.com's latest draft rankings, Fales is currently listed as the 10th best quarterback available. One of the knocks on Fales is his arm strength, but Harbaugh didn't see that while watching him at the 49ers' local Pro Day on Friday.

"You see a very compact throwing motion, more compact than I saw during his career," Harbaugh said. "But he was still throwing the ball 50-55 yards downfield, throwing the deep comebacks, the outside lanes like he threw in college. Easily, accurately and on a line. We talked a little after the workout. I don't see any deficiencies that way."

Fales is currently projected to go in the fifth or sixth round of the draft, but if other coaches are seeing what Harbaugh's seeing, the former San Jose State quarterback might end up shooting up a few rounds in May.

NFL Hot News

Colts TE Dwayne Allen fully cleared for action following hip surgery



Colts tight end Dwayne Allen said last month that he is "back to 100 percent" following season-ending hip surgery last October. Now we know that Indy's medically team agrees. Allen said Wednesday that he has received medical clearance to "participate in everything" during the Colts' offseason workout program. He said it "felt great" to run around and catch some passes this week.Allen played in one game last season and caught one pass, a 20-yard touchdown.



Allen is very physically gifted, and it helps that tight-end whisperer Rob Chudzinski is now on the Colts' coaching staff. But I'm not as high on Allen as others are just because of all of the mouths that Andrew Luck needs to feed in this offense. Reggie Wayne expects to be healthy for the start of this season following last year's ACL tear. There's T.Y. Hilton, fellow tight end Coby Fleener, and the Colts added Hakeem Nicks in free agency. Plus, you figure that the Colts will, you know, run the ball at some points.Injuries to some of these pieces could really open things up for Allen to have a breakout year. But until that happens, I think he's more of a wait-and-see draft pick in the middle rounds. The upside is quite large, but things out of Allen's control need to happen for him to truly fulfill it.

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Report: Seahawks hire ex-GM Ireland as consultant

Jeff Ireland is headed to Seattle to do some pre-draft consulting. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro days | Top free agents

Seahawks general manager John Schneider lost his top aide on Wednesday when senior personnel executive Scot McCloughan unexpectedly resigned to tend to a family matter.

Since 2010, McCloughan had helped the Seahawks general manager identify key draft talent like quarterback Russell Wilson and cornerback Richard Sherman. Schneider won't have McCloughan around for the 2014 NFL Draft, but he will have someone else to shoot ideas off of: Former Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland.

The Seahawks have hired Ireland as a draft consultant, according to FoxSports.com. Schneider and Ireland have a history together that dates back to 1997 when both worked for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Ireland was Miami's general manager from 2008 until this past January when the two sides agreed to mutually part ways. Since Ireland's being hired as a draft consultant, it's probably worth noting that of the 14 players Miami picked in the first or second round under Ireland, only seven of them are still with the team.

Although Ireland's job in Seattle is a temporary one, FoxSports.com notes that it could turn into a full-time role after the draft.

NFL Hot News

Bills looking to surround QB E.J. Manuel with talent through draft



Bills general manager Doug Whaley said Friday that the team doesn't have a pressing need they must fill in next month's draft. That may be true, but there are plenty of reasons why they should look heavily into adding offensive skill players. Stevie Johnson and Mike Williams are not dominant, No. 1 wide receiver types, so bringing in a wideout who could develop into such a player might be the call at No. 9. Slow-footed, low-ceiling tight end Scott Chandler is no great shakes; an athletic, pass-catching tight end could add an interesting dynamic to this offense.Regardless, Whaley said it is a priority to surround quarterback E.J. Manuel with as much talent as possible."It's a quarterback-driven league, so we're going to" look at "every avenue and every piece of the puzzle to surround E.J. and make him as successful as possible," Whaley said via the Buffalo News. "What we did this offseason affords us the opportunity to go any way and every way in this draft. Our main focus is making sure E.J. progresses."



Of course, in an effort to keep absolutely everyone guessing and not tip his hand, Whaley said in the same press conference that he still has confidence in Manuel and that the Bills "may" select a quarterback in the first round. But we should believe what he says about adding pieces to help his quarterback. It's just the smart thing to do. Sammy Watkins should be long gone by the time the Bills are on the clock, but Texas Aamp;M wide receiver Mike Evans and North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron could certainly be in play. If the Bills decide to go after another position in the first round, they should be fine; this is a deep WR draft.

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LeBron: No room in NBA for Sterling if reports true

LeBron James has strong words about Sterling's alleged comments. (USATSI)

More on Sterling: League investigating | Barkley: Ban Sterling | Reactions

Miami Heat star LeBron James spoke to reporters before Game 4 of Miami's series vs. Charlotte about the alleged racist comments from Donald Sterling which were released Saturday by TMZ. From the Miami Herald:

What are your thoughts on Donald Sterling's comments?

“If the reports are true, it's unacceptable. It's unacceptable in our league. It doesn't matter if you're white, black, Hispanic, whatever, all across the races. It's unacceptable and as a commissioner in our league, they have to make a stand, and they have to be very aggressive with it. I don't know what it's going to be, but you just can't have that in our league. We're the model citizens of all sports around the world and because we're the most recognizable, I mean, it figures. You see us all the time, you see our logos, you see our players, and for an owner to come out and say the things that he said, it's very disrespectful, it's very appalling and one of my best friends and dear friends plays on his team in Chris Paul and I haven't had an opportunity to talk to him but I can only imagine what's going through his head.”

How difficult would it be to play with that hanging over…

“I don't know. I kind of waivered back and forth whether I would actually sit out. If our owner would come out and say the things that he said, I would really have to sit down with my teammates, talk to my family because at the end of the day, our family, and our teammates are way more important than that. Basketball is huge, obviously the playoffs have been unbelievable, and I hate the fact that something like this has to come out when the playoffs have been unbelievable and the game of basketball continues to grow, but there is no room for Donald Sterling in our league. There is no room for him.”

Does it make you angry?

“I'm not angry. Just disappointed more than anything. There is only 30 owners and 400-plus of us. For a player, I just think…I put my…I can only imagine if a player came out and said something of that stature what would happen to us as players. So, I believe in Adam [Silver], I believe in the NBA and they have to do something and do something very fast and quickly before this really gets out of hand. Like I said, there is no room for Donald Sterling in our league, man. There it is.”

via Heat Check.

James has been progressively more involved in taking stands. He's expressed support in the past for President Obama and has spoken more openly on league issues. As the most profitable, prolific, and popular player in the league, James' comments will carry weight when they reach the league office.

Topics: Chris Paul, LeBron James, Miami Heat, NBA

Basketball Hot News

Vince Carter beats buzzer with game-winning 3-pointer (video)

Vince Carter had 1.7 seconds to shoot, and he used it all.

Carter caught the inbound in the corner, pump-faked to get Manu Ginobili – who had just made a go-ahead shot on the other end – into the air and then drilled the game-winning 3-pointer.

• Mavericks 109, Spurs 108


• Mavericks 2, Spurs 1

This series has been great, and this ending sequence took it to another level. The way it’s going, hopefully it goes the full seven.

Somehow, with so many veterans, they’re even doing things they’ve never done before:

That was Vince Carter's 1st career go-ahead FG in the final 1:00 of a postseason game.—

ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) April 26, 2014

After losing 10 straight to the Spurs, Dallas has now won two in a row in the series. San Antonio is too good to be considered on the ropes, but Carter’s big shot definitely increases the pressure.

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Former Colts, Dolphins QB Earl Morrall dies at 79

Earl Morrall (left) and Don Shula in February 2013. (USATSI) More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro days | Top free agents

Earl Morrall, who played quarterback for 21 NFL seasons from 1956 to 1976, died Friday morning, according to the Naples News Daily. He was 79.

Hall of Famer Don Shula was Morrall's coach in Baltimore and later Miami, including the 1972 season when Morrall took over for an injured Bob Griese and led the undefeated Dolphins to the playoffs. Griese returned in the AFC Championship and the team would beat the Redskins in the Super Bowl. Still, Morrall was named AFC Player of the Year, as well as the NFL Comeback Player of the Year.

"He's been in a struggle with his health for a while now," Ryan Richeal, who worked in marketing with the Dolphins from 2003-2009, and helped run Morrall's charity golf tournament, said via the Daily. "Everybody has been trying to prepare for this. When you have somebody like Earl Morrall who's a legend on and off the field, it's still very difficult in the end."

Morrall won three Super Bowls -- one with the Colts and two with the Dolphins -- and finished his career with 20,809 passing yards, 161 touchdowns and 148 interceptions.

NFL Hot News

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace excited for new, big-play offense



Bill Lazor has replaced Mike Sherman as the Dolphins' offensive coordinator this year, and one of the differences between their systems appears to be that Lazor's stresses more down-the-field throws.When wide receiver Mike Wallace was asked Tuesday to describe the style of Lazor's offense, he said, "My style: big-play offense. I see Ryan [Tannehill] is excited about it. He's called me eight, nine times."



Head coach Joe Philbin has downplayed how different this year's offense will be from last year's, but Tannehill also mentioned that deep throws will be more prevalent. That's nice. Now the young quarterback and rich wideout have to connect on a higher percentage of those throws. That was a major issue last year; we'll see if they have better chemistry in 2014.The Dolphins giving Wallace more chances this season to make big chunk plays is good news for his fantasy value, but I'd still draft him as just a WR3 because I can't trust Tannehill yet to complete enough of those chances to make it matter.

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Goodell: NFL might conduct draft over four days

It sounds like Roger Goodell wouldn't mind adding an extra day to the NFL draft. (USATSI)

While the NFL has not announced when or where it'll hold the 2015 draft, commissioner Roger Goodell told NFL.com that the league will consider making the seven-round draft a four-day event.

The NFL moved this year's draft from April to May because of a scheduling conflict at Radio City Music Hall, but make no mistake: the league certainly doesn't mind taking up another month of the sport's landscape. That could be why the league isn't sure it wants to return to the month of April.

Also, there have been rumblings in the past about moving the draft out of New York and into another NFL-mad city.

(Hell, at this point, why doesn't the league just make the NFL draft a 30-day, 30-city event? It could go on tour every summer, just like DMB.)

As for keeping the draft in May ...

Lovie Smith told me (and Goodell) that he's enjoyed the extra weeks before the draft -- especially as a coach taking over in a new place.

— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) April 25, 2014

I can't imagine Lovie's opinion is close to unanimous about May draft, but as a coach in a new job, it's more time to get to know roster.

— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) April 25, 2014

NFL Hot News

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace excited for new, big-play offense



Bill Lazor has replaced Mike Sherman as the Dolphins' offensive coordinator this year, and one of the differences between their systems appears to be that Lazor's stresses more down-the-field throws.When wide receiver Mike Wallace was asked Tuesday to describe the style of Lazor's offense, he said, "My style: big-play offense. I see Ryan [Tannehill] is excited about it. He's called me eight, nine times."



Head coach Joe Philbin has downplayed how different this year's offense will be from last year's, but Tannehill also mentioned that deep throws will be more prevalent. That's nice. Now the young quarterback and rich wideout have to connect on a higher percentage of those throws. That was a major issue last year; we'll see if they have better chemistry in 2014.The Dolphins giving Wallace more chances this season to make big chunk plays is good news for his fantasy value, but I'd still draft him as just a WR3 because I can't trust Tannehill yet to complete enough of those chances to make it matter.

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Nets hold off late Raptors charge, go up 2-1 in series

Basketball Hot News

George Karl wants to become Cavaliers president

There are several successful NBA executives who rode successful coaching careers into their front-office positions:

• Pat Riley


• Larry Bird


• Danny Ainge


• Flip Saunders


• Phil Jackson

It sounds like George Karl wants to follow in their footsteps.

Mary Schmitt Boyer, The Plain Dealer:

George Karl has never met Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, but if Gilbert is looking for a prominent NBA veteran with ties to Cleveland to head up his franchise as president, Karl would love to be on the short list.

“Being a leader, running a team and organizing a group with the common goal of winning a championship would be the ultimate challenge in my career,” Karl said via email from Germany, where son Coby is playing.

I wouldn’t read too much into the Cavaliers specifically. They don’t have a team president, and we don’t even know whether they’ll keep general manager David Griffin or coach Mike Brown – let alone whether they’d restructure their front office to create a new position.

But this shows Karl is at least interested in moving to a front office.

Karl coached 25 years in the NBA before the Nuggets fired him following the 2012-13 season, a year he won Coach of the Year. He sat out this season, and he should come up for coaching openings. He’s a good coach without question.

But at 62, maybe he wants to ease into a less-demanding role. His history in basketball should buy him at least looks for executive openings, and then it will be up to him to prove in interviews his skills translate.

Does Karl still want to coach, or is he just open to any job that gets him back in the NBA? That’s something NBA teams with any opening should be exploring this offseason.

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Michigan’s McGary will go to NBA after failing drug test

Michigan's Mitch McGary is going to the NBA rather than serve his suspension. (USATSI)

Michigan sophomore Mitch McGary is forgoing his final two years of eligibility to enter the 2014 NBA Draft in a decision that was made after he received a one-year suspension for failing an NCAA-administered drug test during last month's NCAA Tournament.

"I tested positive for marijuana during the NCAA Tournament," McGary said via a release emailed to reporters Friday morning. "We were notified of that result after the Final Four. I regret thoroughly disappointing my family, coaches and administration. Despite all of this they have been understanding and helpful over the last couple of weeks. ... I take full responsibility for this poor choice and want to apologize to everyone, especially those I have grown close to during my fabulous two years at the University of Michigan."

Gary Parrish Here's hoping McGary case leads to NCAA change

McGary was projected as a lottery pick after helping the Wolverines make the national title game as a freshman. But the 6-foot-10 forward instead decided to return to school, at which point he became a preseason All-American before suffering a back injury and missing all but eight games this season. The Indiana native was randomly tested by the NCAA after Michigan's game against Tennessee in last month's Sweet 16 even though he hadn't played since December. He told Yahoo! Sports' Dan Wetzel that the NCAA's automatic one-year suspension that accompanies the failed drug test influenced his decision to leave college despite having no guarantee that he'll be picked in the first round of June's NBA Draft.

"Mitch has had a tremendous impact on our program from the moment he committed to us," said Michigan coach John Beilein. "He has injected an enthusiasm that cannot be matched ...[and] his willingness to face a personal issue head on and his positive work ethic during his recent injury have helped him to grow in many ways. We know that he will put all of his energy and effort toward achieving his goals. We will continue to assist and support Mitch as he pursues a career in the NBA."

Topics: Michigan Wolverines, NCAAB

About Gary Parrish

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---

Gary Parrish is a senior college basketball columnist for CBSSports.com and frequent contributor to the CBS Sports Network. The Mississippi native also hosts the highest-rated sports talk radio show -- The Gary Parrish Show -- in the history of Memphis. He lives in that area with his wife, two children and a dog.

Basketball Hot News

Report: Despite playoff struggles, Kevin McHale likely safe in Houston

Houston has had trouble in these playoffs. LaMarcus Aldridge has destroyed them scoring 89 points in two games, exposing matchup problems. The Rockets have struggled to get Dwight Howard and James Harden going at the same time. The two have taken turns but when Howard was going off in the first half of Game 2 Harden was just an interested spectator standing around, and when Harden is going off the reverse is true. For these reasons they are down 0-2 (going into Friday night in Portland).

Combine that with the fact Houston, with GM Daryl Morey at the helm, is the preeminent advanced stats NBA front office while McHale is old school and views the game differently and you start to wonder…

Does this slow playoff start impact Kevin McHale’s job safety since the team has his option on next season?

No. Thats what Marc Stein and Ramona Shelburne of ESPN report.

The Rockets have yet to pick up their option on the fourth year of Kevin McHale’s contract, but sources close to the situation said this week that support for Houston’s coach remains strong within the organization and among key players despite the team’s struggles thus far in the playoffs….

Although there is no guarantee he would survive a first-round exit — particularly a sweep — sources told ESPN.com that the prevailing feeling in team circles is that McHale “deserves more than one season with this group.” McHale has strong support from high-profile Rockets such as Howard and forward Chandler Parsons, sources said, and it’s believed general manager Daryl Morey and his front office also prefers to see this group — which is the youngest team in the postseason with an average age of 25.7 — grow together.

Sources say McHale likewise is regarded as a favorite of Rockets owner Les Alexander.

Having the owner in your corner is huge.

Giving McHale another year is the smart move here. Daryl Morey has admitted that there are a handful of teams with more talent than the Rockets around the league and that he had moves yet to make.

This was always going to be learning curve year for the Rockets — the addition our Howard changed the dynamic there and it was going to be a process. That is true of the playoffs in particular. This group needs some time together and to learn from some adversity.

This is a different situation than Scott Brooks in Oklahoma City, where the group has been together for years and if they are eliminated in the first round you can ask legitimate questions about player development and the growth of the team. Houston is just starting their time together and needs time to grow.

McHale deserves more time to see if he can coax and coach this team up into being a contender. The question about whether he is right for this team is better answered in 2015.

Read More

Cheerleaders’ lawsuit discusses Bills’ hygiene rules

The Jills have filed a lawsuit. (USATSI)

First, the Raiderettes sued the Raiders after alleging the team engaged in wage theft and unfair employment practices, and then, the Ben-Gals sued the Bengals for paying under minimum wage.

Now, via Deadspin, the Jills have filed a lawsuit against the Bills, the Citadel Communications Company and Stejons Productions Corporation in which the cheerleaders claim they weren't paid for game days or mandatory biweekly practices and, instead, were exploited by not being paid minimum wage.

The lawsuit states that the defendents were "in flagrant violation of numerous laws of the State of New York, exploited plaintiffs, who worked for them as members of the Bills' cheerleading squad, by failing to pay them for all hours they worked each season. The Bills, Citadel and Stejon also failed to reimburse the Jills for certain business expenses, failed to pay them in a timely manner, took unlawful deductions and kick-backs from the Jills wages, unlawfully took gratuities paid to the Jills, failed to adhere to the notice and record keeping requirements of the Wage Theft Prevention Act, and were unjustly enriched as a result of the Jills' work."

The plaintiffs also say the team's members are required to make between 20-35 appearances at corporate, community and charity events per year (along with six mandatory events that did not count toward those first 20-35). The majority of those, the lawsuit says, were unpaid.

The cheerleaders also could be subject to penalties for a variety of offenses, including "failing the 'jiggle test.'"

In an interesting twist, the lawsuit also discusses the team's expectations for the cheerleaders' grooming habits and hygiene. Particularly, the team wanted to make sure the Jills were washing themselves properly while taking appropriate measures for menstruation and shaving. Make sure to check out this Slate article if you'd like the details.

So, that's three teams out of the 32 that have been sued thus far. At this point, it wouldn't exactly be a surprise if we see more of these kinds of lawsuits.

NFL Hot News

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace excited for new, big-play offense



Bill Lazor has replaced Mike Sherman as the Dolphins' offensive coordinator this year, and one of the differences between their systems appears to be that Lazor's stresses more down-the-field throws.When wide receiver Mike Wallace was asked Tuesday to describe the style of Lazor's offense, he said, "My style: big-play offense. I see Ryan [Tannehill] is excited about it. He's called me eight, nine times."



Head coach Joe Philbin has downplayed how different this year's offense will be from last year's, but Tannehill also mentioned that deep throws will be more prevalent. That's nice. Now the young quarterback and rich wideout have to connect on a higher percentage of those throws. That was a major issue last year; we'll see if they have better chemistry in 2014.The Dolphins giving Wallace more chances this season to make big chunk plays is good news for his fantasy value, but I'd still draft him as just a WR3 because I can't trust Tannehill yet to complete enough of those chances to make it matter.

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Bobcats’ McRoberts fined $20K for elbow on LeBron

More Playoffs: Schedule | Threat Matrix | Previews: East | West | Picks

Josh McRoberts has been fined $20,000 for his forearm/elbow to LeBron James' throat, the NBA announced Thursday. Along with the fine, the league upgraded McRoberts' common foul to a Flagrant 2, which would've resulted in an ejection.

The play happened with under a minute left in the fourth quarter, but McRoberts remained in the game and the foul wasn't even reviewed. In truth, he's lucky to escape a suspension for the foul.

LeBron drained both free throws and the Heat went on to take a 2-0 lead, 101-97.

Topics: Josh McRoberts, LeBron James, Charlotte Bobcats, Miami Heat, NBA

Basketball Hot News

Larry Bird is absolutely miserable watching the Pacers

That’s Larry Bird on the left, watching the No. 1-seeded Pacers lose to the No. 8-seeded Hawks.

To his left is Pacers general manager Kevin Pritchard. Is Pritchard stressing Indiana’s play or his possibly premature tweet?

By the way, the line of play-by-play I clicked to find the screenshot: “Hibbert Out of Bounds Lost Ball Turnover (P1.T7).”

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Bills exercise fifth-year option on DT Marcell Dareus

The Bills exercised the fifth-year option on DT Marcell Dareus. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro Days | Top free agents

The Bills have exercised the fifth-year option on defensive tackle Marcell Dareus, league sources told CBSSports.com.

Dareus, the third-overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, will receive a salary of $8.06 million in 2015 (fully guaranteed for injury) as a result of the Bills decision.

It was a pretty easy choice for Buffalo; Dareus has been a productive player in his three seasons with the Bills and pairs with Kyle Williams to form one of the better defensive tackle tandems in the NFL. (Add in Mario Williams on the end and they're a pretty formidable group.)

Plus there's limited risk for Buffalo and they buy an extra year to work out a long-term deal if they're so inclined.

Follow the full list of 2011 draftees with their options picked up here.

NFL Hot News

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace excited for new, big-play offense



Bill Lazor has replaced Mike Sherman as the Dolphins' offensive coordinator this year, and one of the differences between their systems appears to be that Lazor's stresses more down-the-field throws.When wide receiver Mike Wallace was asked Tuesday to describe the style of Lazor's offense, he said, "My style: big-play offense. I see Ryan [Tannehill] is excited about it. He's called me eight, nine times."



Head coach Joe Philbin has downplayed how different this year's offense will be from last year's, but Tannehill also mentioned that deep throws will be more prevalent. That's nice. Now the young quarterback and rich wideout have to connect on a higher percentage of those throws. That was a major issue last year; we'll see if they have better chemistry in 2014.The Dolphins giving Wallace more chances this season to make big chunk plays is good news for his fantasy value, but I'd still draft him as just a WR3 because I can't trust Tannehill yet to complete enough of those chances to make it matter.

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Niners’ Smith could be facing misdemeanor charges

Aldon Smith has 42 sacks in 43 career games. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro days | Top free agents

Nearly two weeks after 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on the felony charge of a false report of a bomb threat, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced Thursday that the case has been referred to the Los Angeles City District Attorney's Office for misdemeanor consideration.

It was the latest legal entanglement for the 49ers' former first-round pick, who was arrested last September on suspicion of DUI charges.

Shortly after the April 13 arrest, 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement that "We are disappointed to learn of the incident today involving Aldon Smith."

Days later, several sources involved with the team's decision making told MercuryNews.com's Tim Kawakami that not only has Smith lost the benefit of the doubt, he might not play for the 49ers in 2014.

Kawakami added that while this doesn't mean the 49ers will release Smith anytime soon, "...There is a weariness and frustration over Smith's behavior that I've never heard involving any recent 49ers player. Until this week."

"And this is coming from people with the team who defended Smith full-tilt after his DUI arrest last September and emphasized back then that he voluntarily was seeking help, which was a clear sign that he was ready to address his problems," Kawakami continued. "It's a very, very different tone now. Starkly different."

We could get some sense of just how committed the 49ers are to Smith's future in 10 days. The team faces a May 3 deadline to pick up his $9.75 million option for 2015. Kawakami hears the team isn't likely to do it, which means that Smith could be headed for free agency next March.

NFL Hot News

Colts TE Dwayne Allen fully cleared for action following hip surgery



Colts tight end Dwayne Allen said last month that he is "back to 100 percent" following season-ending hip surgery last October. Now we know that Indy's medically team agrees. Allen said Wednesday that he has received medical clearance to "participate in everything" during the Colts' offseason workout program. He said it "felt great" to run around and catch some passes this week.Allen played in one game last season and caught one pass, a 20-yard touchdown.



Allen is very physically gifted, and it helps that tight-end whisperer Rob Chudzinski is now on the Colts' coaching staff. But I'm not as high on Allen as others are just because of all of the mouths that Andrew Luck needs to feed in this offense. Reggie Wayne expects to be healthy for the start of this season following last year's ACL tear. There's T.Y. Hilton, fellow tight end Coby Fleener, and the Colts added Hakeem Nicks in free agency. Plus, you figure that the Colts will, you know, run the ball at some points.Injuries to some of these pieces could really open things up for Allen to have a breakout year. But until that happens, I think he's more of a wait-and-see draft pick in the middle rounds. The upside is quite large, but things out of Allen's control need to happen for him to truly fulfill it.

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Warriors rally falls short as Clips take 2-1 series lead

Basketball Hot News

Watch insane ending to Grizzlies Game 3 win over Thunder (VIDEO)

For a couple of games now it has gone like this: The Oklahoma City Thunder make spectacular plays late (they’ve had two clutch four-point plays) yet the Memphis Grizzlies just keep grinding and executing. It’s been close, but when the dust settles the Grizzlies are the ones standing.

That was the case again Thursday night. Kevin Durant drives and dunks. Russell Westbrook hits a three while getting fouled. The game goes to overtime.

Where Mike Conley hits a three, where a steal leads to a Conley lay-up, where Marc Gasol is hitting free throw line jumpers — where with the game on the line the Grizzlies keep running sets not going to isolation plays. They just keep executing.

And it works. Memphis now leads the series 2-1 with Game 4 in their place being a not quite but almost must-win for Oklahoma City.

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Young has job with alma mater if NFL doesn’t call

Vince Young is ready to move on if his NFL career is truly over. (USATSI) More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro days | Top free agents

Eight years ago, the Texans passed on hometown favorite Vince Young to take Mario Williams. It turned out to be the right decision; Williams signed a $100 million deal with the Bills before the 2012 season, and Young, who led the University of Texas to the national title as a junior, hasn't taken a regular-season NFL snap since December 2011.

Originally drafted third overall by the Titans, Young was in training camp with the Bills in 2012 and the Packers in 2013, but at this stage of the proceedings, an NFL comeback faces long odds. That's the bad news. The good news is that, unlike some players unprepared for the jolting reality of life after football, Young has options.

“If football doesn't work out for me, (the University of Texas) has a great job for me,” said Young (via the Houston Chronicle), who added the position would entail serving as an ambassador for the school as well as speaking engagements.

“Just letting you know what (UT) has going on," Young continued, "especially helping kids get scholarships and recognizing things like that. Whatever it is, I just want to support the university.”

Last October, Young admitted that he was surprised he was still unsigned, despite a rash of injuries to several starting quarterbacks around the NFL.

"Me and my wife and all my peers and fans, we're all trying to figure this stuff out," he said at the time. "I don't have the slightest idea. It's like a huge question mark over my head every day I wake up in the morning to take care of my responsibilities and know I should be playing. To not have one of those calls, it's tough."

When asked Wednesday about his future NFL prospects, Young said, “You never know. All I can do is my part and stay ready.” He added that "there is some interest" in his services, though he didn't offer specifics.

One scenario that's off the table: the CFL.

"No disrespect to Canada, but it's never been an option for me.”

(Back in November, Young balked at a two-year deal with the Montreal Alouettes, the team that just signed Chad Johnson.)

If the NFL truly is a pipe dream Young, who graduated from UT last May, says he's ready to close that chapter of his life.

“You don't want to finish your career like that,” Young said. “You want to finish your dreams you have for yourself. If it doesn't work out you still had a great shot at it, still was a Pro Bowler, playoff guy and still got a winning percentage and things like that. If it doesn't work out it's in God's hands. I just stay strong and continue to live my life and enjoy my life, especially taking care of my little ones.”

NFL Hot News

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace excited for new, big-play offense



Bill Lazor has replaced Mike Sherman as the Dolphins' offensive coordinator this year, and one of the differences between their systems appears to be that Lazor's stresses more down-the-field throws.When wide receiver Mike Wallace was asked Tuesday to describe the style of Lazor's offense, he said, "My style: big-play offense. I see Ryan [Tannehill] is excited about it. He's called me eight, nine times."



Head coach Joe Philbin has downplayed how different this year's offense will be from last year's, but Tannehill also mentioned that deep throws will be more prevalent. That's nice. Now the young quarterback and rich wideout have to connect on a higher percentage of those throws. That was a major issue last year; we'll see if they have better chemistry in 2014.The Dolphins giving Wallace more chances this season to make big chunk plays is good news for his fantasy value, but I'd still draft him as just a WR3 because I can't trust Tannehill yet to complete enough of those chances to make it matter.

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Pats exercise fifth-year option on left tackle Solder

Nate Solder will make almost $7.5 million for 2015. (USATSI)

More NFL offseason: Mock Drafts | Prospect Rankings | Pro Days | Top free agents

Since he was selected No. 17 overall in the 2011 draft, Patriots tackle Nate Solder has started 44 of the 47 games he's played, and he's coming off a season in which he ranked ninth among all tackles by Pro Football Focus.

Thus, it makes sense that New England would exercise its fifth year option on the solid left tackle, and that's exactly what the Patriots have done.

One more player officially had his 5th year option exercised on Wednesday - T Nate Solder (New England)

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 23, 2014

As pointed out in the CBSSports.com fifth-year option tracker, Solder is the ninth player from that draft class to have his option picked up.

It means that Solder, at this juncture, will play in New England in 2015 for $7.438 million

NFL Hot News

Cowboys QB Tony Romo expected to participate in offseason workout program this week



A wide majority of NFL teams begin their offseason program this week. One of those teams is the Dallas Cowboys, who actually start today. According to ESPN Dallas, they will have a very important player around from the open of the program. Quarterback Tony Romo, who underwent back surgery in December, is expected to participate.In this first phase of offseason workouts, players can lift weights, run sprints, and conduct football activities without the supervision of coaches and scouts.



It's just nice to know that Romo hasn't suffered any setbacks in his rehab after undergoing a procedure to take some stress off of a herniated disc in his back. Once again, Romo has a high fantasy ceiling this season, even as he turns 34 years old today. Pass-happy play-caller Scott Linehan will give Romo plenty of chances to put up boatloads of points.

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