Joe Burrow is learning to play the piano to help with his wrist rehab after an injury. Despite losing some key players and coaches, the Bengals are preparing for a strong 2024 NFL season.

Burrow’s Piano Rehab for Wrist Injury

The Cincinnati Bengals’ star quarterback, Joe Burrow, has found an innovative way to rehab his injured wrist: learning to play the piano. This creative method has helped him improve his hand and wrist dexterity.

“I’m learning the piano right now. Hopefully, I can get pretty good at that by next offseason. I guess it’ll be pretty tough during the season, but it’s helped my rehab too for my wrist, so that’s something I want to get good at,” Burrow said with Complex Sports.

The injury, a torn ligament in his throwing wrist, occurred in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens, ending his 2023 season prematurely.

Burrow described this period as the “perfect storm” to combine his interest in music with his need for rehabilitation.

Burrow’s 2024 Health and Performance Goals

Burrow’s performance was solid in the games he played before his injury but not up to his usual exceptional standards.

He finished the season with an offensive grade of 77.9, significantly lower than his previous grades of 91.8 or higher.

Additionally, his adjusted expected points added per play placed him only 17th during the 11 weeks he played.

Burrow’s main goal for the 2024 season is to stay healthy and play every game.

He stated, “Well, number one, I want to be on the field for all the games. I know I’m going to play well when I’m out there. I’m at that point in my career where I’ve seen enough ball and I know myself that I can go out there and play as well as anybody in the game. The biggest strides this year are going to be my body and learning how to get through the season, get through practices with my body, feeling tip, top shape. And so that’s the main focus for the off-season.”

Bengals Adjust to Key Departures for 2024 Season

As Burrow focuses on his recovery, the Bengals are facing several changes. The team must adapt to the departure of key players and coaches.

Former Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon was traded to the Texans and replaced by Zack Moss. Defensively, they will miss the presence of lineman D.J. Reader and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie.

Furthermore, the Bengals’ offensive strategy will need to be adjusted following the departure of offensive coordinator Brian Callahan, who became the head coach of the Tennessee Titans.

Despite these changes, the team is still in a good position to compete with top teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets for the AFC championship.

Optimism for Burrow’s Comeback and Bengals’ 2024 Season

With Burrow’s innovative rehab approach and a focused offseason, there’s optimism for a strong comeback.

As he continues to improve his piano skills, Burrow is determined to return to peak performance and lead the Bengals to another deep playoff run.

His journey from injury to recovery and the team’s adjustments set the stage for a potentially exciting 2024 NFL season for Cincinnati.

The New York Knicks are exploring a trade for Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez to strengthen their center position. Financial challenges and Milwaukee’s high asking price make the trade complicated.

New York Knicks Eyeing Brook Lopez Trade

The New York Knicks have had a productive offseason so far, but they’re still looking for a reliable center.

The New York Knicks are on the hunt for a new center after losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency.

According to Milwaukee Bucks insider Gery Woelfel, veteran center Brook Lopez is on the trade block.

Woelfel tweeted, “Sources claim the Bucks are still very receptive to trading veteran Brook Lopez, but the Bucks’ asking price of a first-round draft pick for a 36-year-old center with a $23M contract is too rich.”

Sources claim the Bucks are still very receptive to trading veteran Brook Lopez, but the Bucks’ asking price of a first-round draft pick for a 36-year-old center with a $23M contract is too rich.

— Gery Woelfel (@GeryWoelfel) July 5, 2024

Financial Challenges in Trading for Lopez

The main hurdle for the Knicks is the financial aspect of acquiring Lopez. After trading Bojan Bogdanovic to the Brooklyn Nets, the Knicks lack a contract that closely matches Lopez’s salary.

Mitchell Robinson’s contract is about $10 million less than Lopez’s, which would increase the Knicks’ tax bill—something the team is trying to avoid.

One potential solution could involve trading Julius Randle. However, this move does not benefit the Knicks as much, given Randle’s value to the team compared to an aging Lopez, even if paired with another asset like shooting guard Pat Connaughton.

Knicks Explore Signing Veteran Centers as Alternatives

Given Lopez’s financial constraints and high asking price, the Knicks might need to explore other options.

Signing a veteran center to the minimum contract could be a practical solution. Former NBA champion JaVale McGee and veteran Daniel Theis are potential candidates who could bring experience and a defensive presence to the team.

Bucks Eye Salary Cap Relief by Trading Lopez

From the Bucks’ standpoint, moving Lopez could provide salary cap relief. The Bucks are currently $11.5 million over the cap, and trading Lopez could help them better manage their finances under the new CBA.

Lopez had a solid season, averaging 12.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game, and his championship experience makes him attractive to contenders.

Pistons Could Swap Duren for Lopez and Draft Pick

One potential trade scenario involves the Detroit Pistons. In exchange for Jalen Duren, the Pistons could receive Lopez and a future first-round pick (2031).

This trade would give the Pistons an elite rim protector and shooter while providing the Bucks with a young, team-controlled player and some salary cap relief.

Although this trade seems unlikely, it highlights the complexities and possibilities of trading a player like Lopez.

Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Goals

As the Knicks continue to look for ways to strengthen their team, they must carefully consider their options.

While tempting, the trade for Brook Lopez might not be the most practical due to financial limitations and the Bucks’ high demands.

Instead, they could explore signing a veteran center to fill the gap. Regardless of their path, the Knicks will focus on making smart moves that balance immediate needs with long-term goals.

By staying flexible and strategic, the Knicks can continue to build a competitive team for the future.

A sudden change at UFC 303 made Brian Ortega withdraw due to illness, leading to Dan Ige stepping in to fight Diego Lopes.

Read the full story of this unexpected fight night and how Ige quickly answered the call.

The Unexpected Change at UFC 303

A very late change happened for the UFC 303 co-main event. Brian Ortega couldn’t fight on Saturday night because he struggled to cut weight and had a fever of 103 degrees.

His fight with Diego Lopes was moved from featherweight to lightweight, but then Ortega was completely ruled out.

Dan Ige then replaced Ortega to fight Lopes. The new fight, announced just before the UFC 303 main card, was set at a catchweight of 165 pounds.

UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell got a text from Ortega’s team at 3:41 p.m. PT on Saturday saying he was out. The preliminaries had already started, and with less than four hours before the main card, the co-main event was in jeopardy.

Within minutes, Campbell was on the phone with Ali Abdelaziz, Ige’s manager. Both tried to reach Ige, who was asleep during his massage.

“Ali started calling me, so I knew something important was going on,” Savannah Ige, Dan’s wife, said. “I didn’t know what Ali wanted, but I was getting SOS alerts on my phone.”

Ige called back and found out Ortega was out. UFC wanted him to fight Lopes that night. Ige agreed, knowing he never says no to a fight.

“When?” Ige asked.

“Tonight,” Ali said. “I was like, ‘What?'”

Dan Ige’s Quick Decision

Surprisingly, Ige agreed to fight Lopes on the shortest notice ever in UFC history, as he wasn’t even scheduled to fight at UFC 303.

When Ige heard the co-main event was in trouble, he sent a message to UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell at 4:18 p.m., less than three hours before the main card started.

“Hey Hunter, I’ve been in camp for 3 months, I’m the healthiest I’ve ever been, I can fight this guy tonight and beat him. This is what legends are made of. I’m in. I’m ready. I’m in great shape. Please don’t take this opportunity away from me.”

Ige hinted about the fight on Twitter, writing, “So you wanna be a BMF?”

So you wanna be a BMF? #UFC303

— Dan Ige (@Dynamitedan808) June 29, 2024

Ige’s Last-Minute Preparations

Ige wondered if it was even possible. UFC events are licensed and managed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Typically, fighters must submit medicals and weigh-ins the day before.

However, Campbell knew a rare rule that allowed the commission’s chairman to waive certain requirements.

Ige was already training for a fight in July, had his medicals done from a February fight, and was the same weight as Lopes — NSAC chairman Dallas Haun approved.

In fact, Ige got paid more for stepping in at the last minute. He called his coach, Eric Nicksick, who was at UFC 303 to corner another fighter. Ige asked him to grab his cup from the gym.

With prelims underway, Ige drove to T-Mobile Arena, met Campbell, and weighed in. His coach, Nicksick, called former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland to join Ige’s corner. Strickland drove straight to the arena.

Diego Lopes vs. Dan Ige Fight Night

Savannah’s brother came over to watch the fights as planned. He asked, “Where’s Dan?”

“He had no idea what was happening,” Savannah said. “I told him and he was like, ‘What?! Can they even do that?‘”

After weighing in, Ige turned off his phone and took a deep breath. He fought two hours later.

The fight was exciting. Lopes nearly forced Ige to submit early and easily won the first two rounds. Ige fought back in the third, and Lopes tried to take him down.

“All the respect to Dan Ige,” Lopes said after the fight. “Not many guys take a fight with three-hour notice.”

Ige gained more respect and exposure than ever before in his UFC career.

“I was happy with what I did,” Ige said. “And just the ovation from the crowd and [UFC president] Dana White — like, I’ve never had that real respect from Dana. Hunter called me and said, ‘I love you, dude.’”

Dan Ige’s Remarkable UFC 303 Performance

Dan Ige’s decision to step in and fight Diego Lopes at UFC 303 was a historic moment. Despite the last-minute call and no preparation, Ige showed incredible courage and determination.

He accepted the challenge just hours before the fight, weighed in, and faced one of the fastest-rising stars in the UFC.

Although Ige lost by a unanimous decision, his quick decision, bravery, and performance under pressure earned him respect and admiration from fans and the UFC community.

His story is a testament to the spirit of a true fighter, willing to step up and compete under any circumstances.

Jacob Trouba stays with the New York Rangers because he doesn’t want to move his family. His wife’s job and medical training in New York are key reasons for his decision.

Family Ties Keep Jacob Trouba with Rangers

The New York Rangers experienced a whirlwind of rumors over the weekend regarding Jacob Trouba’s potential trade to the Detroit Red Wings.

Despite these rumors, no trade has materialized. Two insiders shared with Vince Mercogliano of USA Today that Trouba is unhappy with the situation and reluctant to uproot his family.

His wife, Kelly, has a medical career in New York, and their first child, Axel, was born in January. This strong family connection makes it hard for the Rangers to trade him. One source added that repairing the relationship with Trouba would require “a major cleanup” if he stays with the team.

Larry Brooks of the New York Post echoed similar sentiments, saying that Trouba’s no-trade clause was initially aligned with his wife’s medical residency schedule.

However, her residency was deferred until July 2025, which complicates any potential trade further.

Rangers’ Cap Challenges Highlight Trouba’s Contract

As of July 1, the Rangers have $8.9 million in cap space left to sign four more players to complete their 23-man roster.

Trouba’s $8 million annual contract isn’t critical for signing top-dollar free agents, but his contract is a future problem.

Key players like Kaapo Kakko, Alexis Lafreniere, and K’Andre Miller will soon need new contracts, adding pressure to the Rangers’ cap management.

Additionally, goalie Igor Shesterkin is due for a big new deal, possibly reaching $12 million per year, a record for a goalie. These upcoming financial commitments make Trouba’s contract even more important to manage.

Rangers GM Chris Drury on Trouba and Team Improvements

Rangers General Manager Chris Drury addressed the media after a relatively quiet start to the offseason, focusing on team improvements.

He mentioned the acquisitions of Sam Carrick and Reilly Smith, highlighting the team’s efforts to strengthen its roster.

Drury stayed neutral about Trouba, stressing the need for private talks and the team’s overall plans. He praised Trouba’s role as a player and leader, showing a commitment to keeping a good team atmosphere.

Potential Impact on the Rangers’ Defense

Losing Erik Gustafsson to the Red Wings and quickly signing other potential replacements have left the Rangers with a gap in their defense. If Trouba were to leave, finding a suitable replacement would be challenging due to limited available assets.

Trouba, who played 69 games in 2024, scoring 3 goals and 19 assists, has seen a decline in performance. This has raised concerns about his future contributions. However, his presence is still valued, especially considering his leadership role.

As the Rangers work through these issues, their choices will greatly affect the team’s future and financial health. Drury’s cautious steps and Trouba’s family concerns show how important it is to balance everything carefully when managing a sports team.

The 2024 NBA free agency period is in full swing, with teams actively pursuing trades and signings to strengthen their rosters. Get the latest updates on team trade needs, strategies, and key free-agent signings shaping the upcoming season.

Key NBA Trade Strategies in the Post-Draft Period

The period between the NBA Draft and the start of free agency is critical for teams to make strategic moves.

Historically, the draft is the peak of trade activity as teams aim to turn their picks into valuable players.

However, the 2024 NBA Draft was relatively quiet on the trade front, setting the stage for a potentially explosive free-agency period.

Knicks’ NBA Trade Targets and Roster Strategies for 2024

The New York Knicks have already made a strategic move by acquiring Mikal Bridges. Now, their focus shifts to filling out the roster around him.

They are below the first-apron hard cap, but the Knicks must address their center position with Isaiah Hartenstein, who is likely departing due to Early Bird Rights restrictions.

Mitchell Robinson’s injury history necessitates a reliable backup or replacement to avoid risking the season on his health alone.

Two main options emerge for the Knicks:

• Re-signing Hartenstein: If Hartenstein accepts a four-year, $72.5 million deal, the Knicks would need to adjust their finances, possibly expanding the Bridges trade or moving either Robinson or Julius Randle to stay under the cap.
• Trading for a center: If Hartenstein leaves, the Knicks must consider trading Robinson or Randle for a more dependable center. This could potentially free up cap space to use the mid-level exception for additional roster improvements.

Brooklyn Nets’ Rebuild and Latest NBA Trade Rumors

Contrary to the Knicks, the Brooklyn Nets are preparing for a rebuild. By reacquiring their 2025 and 2026 first-round picks from the Houston Rockets, the Nets signaled their intent to tank for better future prospects.

Veterans Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith are prime candidates for trade as the Nets aim to maximize their value before any potential declines or injuries.

Pistons’ NBA Trade Rumors on Youth and Shooting

The Detroit Pistons face a challenging roster configuration with several young, promising players who struggle with shooting.

Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and recent draft picks like Ron Holland and Ausar Thompson need a more balanced lineup to develop their skills properly.

Trading one of these young players for a shooter could provide the necessary space and support to evaluate and enhance their core talents.

Portland Trail Blazers’ Resolving the Center Logjam

Portland made a sound choice by drafting Donovan Clingan, but this has created a logjam at the center position with Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III already on the roster.

To foster the development of guards Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, Portland might need to move Williams to ensure optimal playing time and growth opportunities for all players involved.

Denver Nuggets’ Salary Cap Management

The Denver Nuggets must navigate their salary cap carefully to retain key players like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who opted out of his contract.

Trading Zeke Nnaji, who didn’t solidify his role as a backup center, could free up space to re-sign Caldwell-Pope or acquire a replacement.

The Nuggets also have the option to use future draft picks to trade for a starting-level player on a rookie deal, ensuring they remain competitive.

2024 NBA Free-Agent Signings and Trade Updates

With the free-agent frenzy underway, numerous players have already found new homes, while others are amid negotiations. Here are the signings and trades made so far:

• Adama Sanogo: Signed a 2-way contract with the Chicago Bulls.
• Taurean Prince: Signed with the Milwaukee Bucks.
• PJ Dozier: Signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
• Alec Burks: Signed a one-year contract with the Miami Heat.
• Joe Ingles: Agreed to a one-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
• Thomas Bryant: Re-signed a one-year deal with the Miami Heat.
• Damion Lee: Agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns.
• LeBron James: Signed a two-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Kyle Anderson: Signed a three-year, $27 million contract with the Golden State Warriors.
• Jonathan Isaac: Agreed to a five-year, $84 million contract extension with the Orlando Magic.
• Xavier Tillman: Agreed to a two-year deal with the Boston Celtics.
• Monte Morris: Plans to sign with the Phoenix Suns.
• Moritz Wagner: Signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the Orlando Magic.
• James Wiseman: Agreed to a two-year contract with the Indiana Pacers.
• Donovan Mitchell: Agreed to a three-year, $150.3 million contract extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
• Mo Bamba: Signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Kris Dunn: Agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Gary Harris: Signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the Orlando Magic.
• Dru Smith: Signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat.
• Garrett Temple: Re-signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Raptors.
• Collin Gillespie: Signed a two-year contract with the Phoenix Suns.
• Goga Bitadze: Re-signed a three-year, $25 million contract with the Orlando Magic.
• Jayson Tatum: Signed a five-year, $315 million supermax extension with the Boston Celtics.
• Klay Thompson: Signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks after a sign-and-trade.
• De’Anthony Melton: Agreed to a one-year, $12.8 million contract with the Golden State Warriors.
• Nic Batum: Signed a two-year, $9.6 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Aaron Holiday: Agreed to a two-year, $10 million contract with the Houston Rockets.
• Derrick White: Signed a four-year, $125.9 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics.
• Tobias Harris: Signed a two-year, $52 million contract with the Detroit Pistons.
• Isaiah Hartenstein: Signed a three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
• Paul George: Signed a four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Tyrese Maxey: Agreed to a five-year, $204 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Delon Wright: Signed a one-year, $3.3 million contract with the Milwaukee Bucks.
• Luka Garza: Agreed to a two-year contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
• Drew Eubanks: Signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Utah Jazz.
• Jalen Smith: Signed a three-year, $27 million contract with the Chicago Bulls.
• Aaron Wiggins: Signed a five-year, $47 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
• Justin Minaya: Agreed to a two-way contract with the Portland Trail Blazers.
• Isaiah Joe: Signed a four-year, $48 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
• Kelly Oubre Jr.: Signed a two-year, $16.3 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Derrick Jones Jr.: Signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Naji Marshall: Signed a three-year, $27 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks.
• Mason Plumlee: Signed a one-year, $3.3 million contract with the Phoenix Suns.
• Jonas Valančiūnas: Signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Washington Wizards.
• Andre Drummond: Signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Chris Paul: Signed a one-year, $11 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs.
• Eric Gordon: Signed a contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: Signed a three-year, $66 million contract with the Orlando Magic.
• Kevin Porter Jr.: Signed a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Neemias Queta: Signed a multi-year contract with the Boston Celtics.
• Omer Yurtseven: Waived by the Utah Jazz.
• Kevin Love: Signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Miami Heat.
• Luke Kornet: Signed a one-year deal with the Boston Celtics.
• James Harden: Signed a two-year, $70 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Max Christie: Signed a four-year, $32 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Obi Toppin: Signed a four-year, $60 million contract with the Indiana Pacers.
• Alex Len: Signed a one-year, $3.3 million contract with the Sacramento Kings.
• Royce O’Neale: Signed a four-year, $44 million contract with the Phoenix Suns.
• Dejounte Murray: Traded to the New Orleans Pelicans.
• Nic Claxton: Signed a four-year, $100 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets.
• Immanuel Quickley: Signed a five-year, $175 million contract with the Toronto Raptors.
• Tim Hardaway Jr. and Quentin Grimes: Traded between the Dallas Mavericks and Detroit Pistons.

The free-agent market is still active, and more signings and trades are expected in the coming days. Look for updates as teams continue to build and refine their rosters for the 2024-25 NBA season.