The New York Knicks are doing great with a 27-15 record, but let’s not act like everything is perfect.

Karl-Anthony Towns is stuck on the bench with his thumb wrapped up like a cast, and Josh Hart is out there grabbing rebounds like his shoulder isn’t hurting with every move.

It’s impressive, no doubt. These guys are giving everything they’ve got to keep the team going. But how much longer can they push through all this pain before it catches up with them?

With the Hawks coming up on MLK Day and the Knicks’ lineup held together by effort and willpower, it’s hard not to wonder if this team can keep it up.

For now, it’s all about toughness and determination, but Knicks fans are left asking: how long before this takes a toll?

Knicks’ Stars Battle Through Pain, But Is It Sustainable?

Seeing Karl-Anthony Towns on the bench with his thumb wrapped in a hardcover isn’t exactly comforting for Knicks fans.

Watching Josh Hart shrug off a shoulder injury and dive for rebounds might inspire some, but how much longer can this team rely on its players’ toughness to make up for their issues?

Towns, officially questionable for the MLK Day game against the Hawks, has been out for two games with a thumb injury.

Unfortunately, it’s not just a sprain; tests revealed a bone chip.

While surgery isn’t needed, and he plans to return as soon as the swelling goes down, it’s hard not to worry.

Towns have been phenomenal this season, averaging 25.3 points and 13.9 rebounds (second in the NBA).

But how confident can the team be that he’ll stay healthy enough to carry them through the season?

Then there’s Hart, who got banged up during a loss to the Timberwolves.

His injuries—a neck compression and shoulder pain—didn’t stop him from playing, though.

In fact, he grabbed 17 rebounds in the win against the 76ers.

When asked about it, he joked, “There’s no one to steal my rebounds now.”

That’s classic Hart humor, but the truth is the Knicks are leaning heavily on him, and that’s risky.

Another awkward fall, and what then?

Overworking Heroes?

Jalen Brunson praised his teammates after Sunday’s practice, jokingly calling them “great-looking men” before getting serious.

“They looked fantastic,” he said. “Playing through pain is just who they are.”

But should it be?

The idea of “toughing it out” sounds great in theory, but this isn’t a movie.

This is the NBA, a long, grueling season where pushing through injuries often leads to bigger problems.

Coach Tom Thibodeau seems resigned to this reality.

“No one’s 100 percent this time of year,” he said. “But I respect these guys. They show up every day, even when they’re hurting.”

Respect is one thing, but the Knicks can’t survive on respect alone.

If Towns or Hart aggravates their injuries, the team’s already thin frontcourt will be in even deeper trouble.

Stepping Up When It Matters

The Knicks showed they could adapt in their overtime win against the 76ers, but it wasn’t easy.

With Towns out, Jericho Sims started at center but only managed 23 minutes because of back spasms.

That left Precious Achiuwa to step up, and he delivered.

Achiuwa had 10 points, six rebounds, and three critical blocks in the final minutes.

Thibodeau praised his performance, saying, “[Achiuwa’s] blocks were huge. He gives us more flexibility on defense.”

But Achiuwa, at just 6-foot-8, isn’t the long-term answer.

Sims, who chipped in eight points and seven rebounds, is reportedly being shopped in trade talks.

Rookie Ariel Hukporti didn’t even play.

Hart also stepped up, filling the rebounding gap left by Towns.

But relying on Hart, who’s already playing through pain, to do more isn’t sustainable.

As he put it, “With Towns averaging 13 rebounds, you’ve got to hit the glass harder.”

What’s Next for the Knicks?

The MLK Day game brings a special kind of pressure.

For Jalen Brunson, playing on this day means something bigger.

“It’s a privilege to play on days like this,” he said.

“Dr. King stood for so much, and we need to honor him.”

But emotions aside, the Knicks face a tough situation.

Atlanta has its own injury problems—Zaccharie Risacher and Larry Nance Jr. are out, while Trae Young and Jalen Johnson are listed as probable—but the Knicks’ lineup is stretched thin.

Mitchell Robinson, still recovering from injury, could return to practice later this month, but that doesn’t solve the immediate problem.

The Knicks have had a great season so far, sitting at 27-15, but without Towns and Hart at full strength, how long can they keep this up?

For now, the Knicks are holding on, powered by players like Towns and Hart, who are willing to push through the pain.

But at what cost?

It’s impressive to watch, no doubt, but if this continues, the Knicks might be asking for trouble.

Is DJ Moore on the trading block? This feels like a moment where you double-take and ask, “Wait, what?”

It’s almost laughable to imagine the Chicago Bears even considering such a move.

But here we are, dissecting what could become one of the wildest trades in recent NFL memory.

The Bears, fresh off yet another season of frustration and unmet expectations, are reportedly entertaining the idea of trading their star wide receiver.

And for what? There is some potential, promise, and a little draft capital.

Let’s start with the obvious: DJ Moore is the Bears’ offense.

The guy led the team in catches and yards in 2024 with 98 receptions, 966 yards, and six touchdowns.

Sports Illustrated writer Alan Goldsher suggested this idea: Moore could be swapped for New York Jets stars Garrett Wilson and Olu Fashanu and a fourth-round pick.

It’s a tempting package, no doubt.

But tempting enough?

Garrett Wilson: The Shiny New Toy

Garrett Wilson is good, and no one’s debating that.

The 24-year-old wideout caught 101 passes for 1,104 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, and he did it while playing second fiddle to Davante Adams for half the season.

Younger than Moore by three years, Wilson’s ceiling feels higher simply because he hasn’t hit his prime yet.

But let’s not ignore the red flags.

Wilson’s frustration with the Jets is no secret.

He’s voiced his displeasure (without outright demanding a trade), and whispers are growing louder about a potential holdout if the Jets don’t sort out their quarterback situation.

If Aaron Rodgers returns, there’s a real chance Wilson bolts anyway.

For the Bears, trading Moore for Wilson means taking on an equally talented player but one with baggage.

And here’s the kicker: Wilson’s on a rookie deal now, but he’ll soon demand a contract rivaling Moore’s four-year, $110 million extension.

So, financially, there’s no real advantage.

It’s a lateral move dressed up in potential.

Olu Fashanu: The Wild Card

Now, Olu Fashanu is where things get interesting.

The Jets’ 2024 first-round pick showed flashes of brilliance during his rookie season, starting seven games and playing at both tackle spots.

He’s the kind of young, versatile lineman the Bears desperately need to protect Caleb Williams, their franchise quarterback.

But Fashanu isn’t a slam dunk in the slightest.

A foot injury ended his season early, and while his potential is undeniable, potential doesn’t win games.

The Bears have been burned before by banking on unproven talent, and there’s no guarantee Fashanu lives up to his billing.

The Draft Pick Sweetener (Or Is It?)

Let’s talk about that 2025 fourth-round pick.

It’s… fine; not the kind of thing you throw a parade over, but it’s a nice little bonus.

For the Bears, who don’t have a pick in that round, it adds some value.

But are we really going to pretend that a mid-round pick is the thing that makes this trade worthwhile?

The Jets: Desperate or Brilliant?

From the Jets’ perspective, this trade makes a weird kind of sense.

They need to fix their offense, and adding Moore would give Aaron Rodgers another reliable target.

But is it worth giving up Wilson, who’s younger, cheaper, and statistically comparable?

And then there’s Fashanu.

Trading away a young, promising tackle when your offensive line is already shaky feels reckless.

But this is the Jets we’re talking about—a team that managed to turn a loaded roster into a five-win season in 2024.

Perhaps they’ve decided to lean into the chaos.

Why the Bears Should Think Twice

For the Bears, this trade feels like trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist.

DJ Moore isn’t the issue, though. It’s the lack of depth, consistency, and an offensive line that can actually keep Caleb Williams upright.

Trading away your best receiver for another receiver (even a younger one) and an unproven tackle feels like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic.

And let’s not forget the financial hit.

Trading Moore means eating two-thirds of his $24.8 million cap hit for 2025.

That’s money the Bears could use to, oh, I don’t know, sign some offensive linemen or draft a few more weapons for Williams.

Why This Trade Probably Won’t Happen

At the end of the day, this trade is just a rumor.

A hypothetical.

A “what if” that gives us something to argue about during the offseason.

The Jets probably aren’t crazy enough to give up Wilson and Fashanu for Moore, and the Bears, despite their many flaws, probably aren’t dumb enough to let their best offensive player walk.

But the fact that we’re even having this conversation says a lot about both teams.

For the Jets, it’s a sign of desperation—a Hail Mary to fix an offense that should already be working.

For the Bears, it’s a reminder that even when they’re trying to do the right thing, they can’t help but flirt with chaos.

So, will DJ Moore actually get traded?

Probably not.

But if he does, buckle up.

It’s going to be one wild ride.

Horse riding is a skill, a sport, and, for many, a passion that lasts a lifetime.

If you’re starting to explore horse riding, you’ve likely realized there’s so much more to it than you expected.

Every riding style is different, so this guide will introduce you to popular horse disciplines, including English and Western riding styles, which are some you might not know about yet.

No matter your skill level, there’s a type of riding that’s perfect for you.

What Are Horse Disciplines?

Horse disciplines are different activities or sports that riders and horses do together.

And they vary widely, from the precision of dressage to the thrill of barrel racing.

Some, like endurance riding, push a horse’s strength and stamina to the limit, while others, like show jumping, put agility and quick reflexes on full display.

These activities can be done for fun, as part of a tradition, or in serious competitions.

English Riding Disciplines

English riding focuses on control, balance, and building a strong connection between horse and rider.

It uses a lighter saddle, allowing closer communication between the rider and horse.

Known for its elegance and attention to detail, English riding includes a variety of disciplines, each with its unique purpose and challenges.

Dressage

Dressage, often called “horse ballet,” is about achieving harmony between horse and rider.

The horse performs a series of movements called tests that show how well-trained and responsive it is to the rider’s signals.

Movements range from simple tasks like walking and trotting to advanced maneuvers like pirouettes and flying lead changes.

The competition takes place in a 20×60-meter arena, marked with letters that guide the performance.

Judges evaluate the smoothness, precision, and grace of the routine and the connection between horse and rider.

Dressage takes years of practice, as it relies on subtle communication and perfect timing.

Show Jumping

Show jumping is a fast-paced discipline where horses and riders navigate a course of jumps and obstacles.

The goal is to complete the course as quickly as possible without knocking down obstacles or going over the time limit.

Jumps vary in height and difficulty, requiring agility, speed, and trust between horse and rider.

Riders must make quick decisions to approach each jump at the correct angle and speed, while horses must stay focused and responsive.

Mistakes, like knocking over a pole or refusing a jump, result in penalties called faults.

The winner is the pair that finishes with the fewest faults and the fastest time.

Eventing

Eventing, also known as the “equestrian triathlon,” combines three disciplines—dressage, cross-country, and show jumping—into one competition.

The dressage phase tests precision and obedience, with horses performing specific movements in a calm and controlled manner.

The cross-country phase is an outdoor course with natural obstacles like logs, ditches, and water crossings.

The final phase, show jumping, challenges accuracy and agility in a timed jumping course.

Scores from all three phases are combined, and the rider with the lowest penalties wins.

Eventing requires a versatile horse and a rider skilled in multiple areas, which is why it’s one of the most demanding equestrian sports.

Hunting

Hunting, also known as fox hunting, is a traditional sport deeply rooted in English history.

Originally, it involved chasing a fox with a pack of hounds, but today, it often uses artificial scent trails instead.

Riders travel across open fields, streams, and fences, working together to navigate the terrain.

Consequently, horses must be strong and steady to handle long distances and natural obstacles.

Hunting is also a social event, with many hunts ending in gatherings or celebrations.

Hunter/Jumper

Hunter/Jumper focuses on jumping courses designed to look like natural obstacles, such as hedges and fences.

Unlike show jumping, which prioritizes speed, Hunter/Jumper competitions judge smoothness, rhythm, and style.

Judges evaluate the horse’s form, consistency, and overall grace as they navigate the course.

Not to mention, riders are also scored on their position and technique.

Polo

Polo is a fast-paced team sport where riders use mallets to hit a ball into the opposing team’s goal.

The game is played on a large grass field, divided into six periods called chukkas, each lasting 7.5 minutes.

Polo requires quick reflexes, excellent horse control, and strong coordination with teammates.

The horses, known as “ponies,” are trained to be fast, agile, and responsive, enabling players to maneuver effectively.

Cross-Country

Cross-country is an outdoor riding discipline where horse and rider tackle a course filled with natural obstacles.

The obstacles include logs, ditches, water crossings, and uneven terrain.

Ultimately, the goal is to complete the course within a set time while clearing all obstacles safely.

Cross-country is part of eventing but is also enjoyed as a standalone activity for riders who love outdoor adventures.

Equitation

Equitation focuses on the rider’s posture, technique, and ability to communicate effectively with the horse.

Judges evaluate how well the rider maintains balance and control while guiding the horse through movements.

Equitation competitions often include flatwork, like walking and trotting, as well as jumping exercises.

This discipline is ideal for riders who want to improve their skills and develop a deeper connection with their horse.

Saddle Seat

Saddle Seat is a flashy riding style that showcases the high-stepping gaits of specific horse breeds, such as the American Saddlebred and Morgan horse.

In this discipline, the rider sits farther back in the saddle to emphasize the horse’s elevated movements and proud carriage.

Judges score the horse’s performance, the rider’s presentation, and the overall impression of the pair.

Saddle Seat is primarily practiced in the United States and is known for its showy, elegant displays.

Hunt Seat

Hunt Seat combines flatwork and jumping, emphasizing balance and freedom of movement.

Rooted in fox hunting traditions, this style focuses on a forward seat that allows the horse to navigate obstacles with ease.

It is commonly seen in Hunter/Jumper competitions and is known for promoting good riding habits and a practical approach.

Endurance Riding

Endurance riding is a long-distance discipline where horses and riders cover 50 to 100 miles of challenging terrain.

The focus is completing the ride within a set time while keeping the horse healthy and fit.

Riders must manage the horse’s pace, rest periods, and energy levels throughout the journey.

Vet checks are conducted regularly during the ride to ensure the horse’s well-being.

Endurance riding is a true test of teamwork, trust, and strategy between horse and rider.

Western Riding Disciplines

Western riding comes from the everyday work done on ranches in the American West.

Cowboys needed horses that could handle long hours, rough land, and quick moves to manage cattle.

Over time, these practical ranch skills turned into exciting competitions and fun activities.

Let’s take a closer look at the most popular Western riding disciplines and what makes each one special.

Rodeo

Rodeo is a thrilling event that shows off the skills cowboys and cowgirls use on ranches.

It includes several exciting activities like bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and barrel racing.

In bull riding, the goal is to stay on a bucking bull for at least 8 seconds, using just one hand.

Steer wrestling, also known as bulldogging, involves jumping off a horse to wrestle a steer to the ground as fast as possible.

Team roping is about teamwork, where one rider ropes the steer’s head while the other ropes its legs.

In barrel racing, riders guide their horses around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern as fast as possible.

Knocking over a barrel adds penalties, so speed and precision are key.

Reining

Reining is a Western discipline where horses perform a set pattern of moves with control and grace.

The moves include spins (pivoting in one spot), sliding stops (dramatic halts), and rollbacks (quick 180-degree turns).

And the patterns are based on tasks horses would do on a ranch, like turning sharply to keep up with cattle.

Horses are judged on how accurate and smooth their movements are and how willingly they follow the rider’s signals.

Reining is often called the Western version of dressage because it highlights the connection between horse and rider and requires fine control.

Cutting

Cutting is a sport where horses show off their natural ability to separate a cow from the herd.

The rider chooses a cow and guides the horse to cut it out of the group.

Once the cow is separated, the rider drops the reins, and the horse takes over. Then, the horse uses its instincts to keep the cow from returning to the herd.

Judges score the horse on how quickly and confidently it reacts to the cow’s movements.

Cutting started as a ranch skill but has become a fast-paced and exciting competition.

Barrel Racing

Barrel racing is one of the fastest and most exciting Western events.

Horses race through a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels, trying to finish in the quickest time.

The rider and horse must make tight, precise turns around each barrel without knocking them over, which adds penalties.

Barrel racing requires a horse that’s fast and quick to respond to the rider’s commands.

It’s a staple of rodeos and a crowd favorite because of its thrilling speed and sharp turns.

Western Pleasure

Western pleasure shows how calm and smooth a horse can be while performing different gaits.

Horses are judged on their ability to walk, jog (a slow trot), and lope (a slow canter) in a relaxed and steady manner.

The goal is to make the ride look effortless and enjoyable, with the horse appearing happy and willing.

Riders guide their horses using gentle signals, showing off their ability to work as a team.

Trail Riding

Trail riding is a discipline that mimics the challenges riders face when out on real trails.

Horses navigate over logs, through water, and around tight spaces, all while staying calm and controlled.

Judges look at how smoothly the horse handles each obstacle and how effectively the rider guides them.

Ranch Riding

Ranch riding shows off the skills a horse and rider would need for daily ranch work, including moving cattle, opening gates, and navigating rough terrain.

Horses are judged on their ability to work efficiently and naturally without unnecessary fuss.

Pole Bending

Pole bending is a timed event where horses weave in and out of a row of poles spaced 21 feet apart.

The whole point is to complete the pattern as quickly as possible without knocking over any poles, which adds penalties.

This sport tests the horse’s agility and the rider’s ability to guide them through sharp turns and quick movements.

Ranch Sorting

Ranch sorting is a team event where two riders work together to move specific cattle from one pen to another.

The cattle are numbered, and the riders must move them in the correct order without letting any others sneak through.

This sport requires excellent communication between the riders and a quick, focused, and responsive horse.

Choosing the Right Horse Discipline

Picking the right horse discipline depends on your goals, interests, experience, and what’s available near you.

Each discipline offers something special, and finding the one that fits you and your horse can make riding more fun and rewarding.

Start by thinking about your experience level.

If you’re new to riding, you might enjoy starting with something relaxed like trail riding or Western pleasure.

That said, if you’re more experienced, you might prefer something challenging like eventing, reining, or show jumping.

Next, consider what excites you most.

If, say, you enjoy calm, precise riding, dressage or reining could be the best fit.

But perhaps speed and action are more your style; if so, barrel racing or show jumping might be a better fit.

If you like working with a team, try disciplines like polo or ranch sorting.

However, one of the biggest factors is your fitness level and how much time you can spend training.

Disciplines like endurance riding or eventing require both you and your horse to be in great shape and ready to practice a lot.

So, if you’re looking for something more relaxed, equitation or Western pleasure could be just right.

Another thing is that you’ll need to look into what’s available near you.

Some disciplines, like polo or cutting, need special facilities, equipment, or even specific types of horses.

So, check local stables or riding centers to see what lessons or programs they offer.

Lastly, consider your horse’s abilities and personality.

There are horses that are naturally better at certain disciplines.

Strong, muscular horses, for instance, might do well in barrel racing or cutting, while taller, more elegant horses may excel in dressage or jumping.

Whatever you choose, remember that the goal is to have fun, learn new skills, and build a strong bond with your horse.

Every discipline has its own rewards, so take your time, explore your options, and find the one that makes you happiest.

New York Yankees always aim high in their pursuit of championships. However, their current offseason includes a big problem tied to pitcher Marcus Stroman.

Because of his $18 million vesting option for 2026, trading him has become a serious challenge.

This vesting option activates if Stroman pitches 140 innings in the 2025 season.

So, any team trading for him must accept the possibility of paying him $18M for another year.

Clearly, this financial risk has scared off potential trade partners.

Why Stroman’s Contract Is So Complicated

When you look closer, the complication surrounding Marcus Stroman’s contract isn’t solely about his $18.3M salary for 2025.

The bigger issue is his vesting option, which makes it harder to predict the total cost of keeping him.

If he pitches well enough to reach the 140-inning mark in 2025, the next team could be stuck with him in 2026.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a problem if Stroman were an elite pitcher.

But his 2024 numbers—10 wins, 9 losses, and a 4.31 ERA over 154.2 innings—make him solid, not spectacular.

Still, Stroman’s reliability adds some value, though not enough to outweigh the risks of his contract.

Balancing Payroll and Ambition

Right now, the Yankees are working hard to improve their team while keeping their budget in check.

They’ve made some big moves, including signing lefty Max Fried and slugger Paul Goldschmidt.

They also traded for closer Devin Williams and outfielder Cody Bellinger and re-signed ace Gerrit Cole, one of the highest-paid MLB players.

But even with these upgrades, their infield has a noticeable gap after losing Gleyber Torres.

So, the Yankees are considering several options, including free agent Jorge Polanco.

Polanco, who previously signed a five-year, $25.7M deal with the Seattle Mariners, could be a good fit.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are also linked to Luis Arráez, a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger.

Arráez’s impressive career numbers—a .323 batting average and a .372 on-base percentage—make him an ideal addition.

With his ability to set up opportunities for Aaron Judge, Arráez would bring balance to their lineup.

The Marcus Stroman-Luis Arráez Trade Rumor

To solve both teams’ needs, some rumors suggest a trade between the Yankees and Padres involving Stroman and Arráez.

For the Yankees, they would get a consistent hitter to strengthen their infield.

For the Padres, Stroman could help fix their pitching rotation, which badly needs more depth.

That being said, the Padres might prefer younger prospects in the deal instead of just Stroman.

One name mentioned is Will Warren, the Yankees’ seventh-ranked prospect.

Although Warren struggled in his brief MLB stint—posting a 10.32 ERA in five starts—his upside could make him appealing to San Diego.

The Yankees’ Case for Keeping Stroman

If a trade doesn’t materialize, the Yankees could consider keeping Stroman for depth.

Injuries are an inevitable part of a long season, and Stroman’s durability could prove valuable.

While his 2024 ERA of 4.31 wasn’t elite, he still managed 154.2 innings.

With a rotation featuring Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Max Fried, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt, Stroman might not seem essential.

Nonetheless, having a seasoned pitcher as insurance could pay dividends if injuries strike or younger arms falter.

Another option for the Yankees is to allow Stroman to rebuild his value during the first half of the 2025 season.

If he performs well, they could explore trading him at the deadline, when teams desperate for pitching depth might be more willing to overlook his contract complications.

Yankees’ Ambitions for 2025

The Yankees are under a lot of pressure after losing the 2024 World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Their 94-68 record and AL Pennant win were great, but falling short has only raised expectations.

Their aggressive offseason moves show they’re focused on winning in 2025.

If they can trade Stroman, it could give them the financial space to make one more important move.

Whether that move is for Luis Arráez or someone else, it could be the final piece to help them win the World Series.

What Will the Yankees Do?

The Yankees’ dilemma with Marcus Stroman is a microcosm of the challenges faced by a team that must balance win-now ambitions with long-term planning.

Trading him could solve some financial problems and allow them to strengthen their infield.

But keeping him might also work if injuries hit or if they need a trade piece later in the season.

What do you think?

Should the Yankees trade Stroman, or is it smarter to hold onto him?