The New York Rangers faced many ups and downs during the 2023-2024 season. Injuries, key games, and decisions about players have shaped their journey.

How Injuries Affected the Season

Injuries played a big role in the Rangers’ season. Blake Wheeler, after a leg injury, saw limited game time, which raised concerns about his availability for critical matches.

Wheeler logged only 9:18 of ice time in Game 4 against the Florida Panthers before sitting out Game 5. Anton Blidh, who is stepping in during practice, likely won’t play even if Wheeler remains unavailable.

Adam Fox’s knee injury got worse after a collision in the first round, and his partner Ryan Lindgren played with a cracked rib.

Captain Jacob Trouba also played with a broken ankle. These injuries show the season’s toughness and the players’ determination to keep going.

Filip Chytil, recovering from a head injury, is determined to come back stronger and is committed to hard training during the off-season.

Evaluating the Rangers’ 2023-2024 Season

Despite the challenges, the Rangers showed resilience and potential. Chris Kreider confidently stated that the team could bring the Stanley Cup back to New York, a view shared by his teammates.

Mika Zibanejad reflected on the season, emphasizing the team’s strong foundation and belief in its abilities, even though it didn’t achieve its goal.

Vincent Trocheck highlighted the team’s growing identity and the need for consistency. Adam Fox pointed to the strong team culture that led the Rangers to two Eastern Conference finals in three years. The team needs to find another level to go beyond their current achievements.

Artemi Panarin, who scored 120 points in the regular season, acknowledged the Panthers’ tough defense, which limited him to four points in six games.

The Rangers’ power play struggled, scoring only once in 15 tries against Florida, showing the need for improvement in this area.

Free-Agent Considerations and Future Prospects

As the season ended, attention turned to the future. Key players like Ryan Lindgren and Kaapo Kakko, both restricted free agents, face important contract talks.

Lindgren expressed his love for the Rangers and confidence in staying, while Kakko, despite an inconsistent season, is committed to improving and staying in New York.

Unrestricted free agents like Erik Gustafsson and Blake Wheeler, as well as new additions Alex Wennberg, Jack Roslovic, and Chad Ruhwedel, face uncertain futures due to salary cap limits.

Wennberg, who scored an overtime goal against the Panthers, wants to return, as does Gustafsson, who enjoyed his time with the team.

Blake Wheeler is considering whether to continue playing, weighing his love for the game against the desire to be with his family.

Rangers Reflect on Season’s Lessons to Forge Ahead

Reflecting on the Panthers’ loss, players like Trocheck and Panarin acknowledged the team’s ups and downs. Panarin said the team’s decreased confidence against Florida, while Zibanejad highlighted the need to avoid mistakes and make the most of opportunities.

On the other hand, coach Peter Laviolette emphasized the importance of scoring timely goals, which the Rangers struggled with against the Panthers.

Looking ahead, Kreider and others are committed to improving, building on the season’s experiences to come back stronger.

In summary, the New York Rangers’ 2023-2024 season was a mix of challenges, perseverance, and learning.

As the team prepares for the next season, the focus remains on building a stronger identity, making key player decisions, and striving to bring the Stanley Cup back to New York.

Mikal Bridges has joined the New York Knicks and changed his jersey number from No. 1 to 25.

This move reunites him with his former Villanova teammates, strengthening the Knicks’ defense and adding excitement for the upcoming season.

Mikal Bridges Announces New Knicks Jersey Number

Mikal Bridges, who just joined the New York Knicks, has decided to switch his jersey number to 25 after first choosing No. 1.

Bridges himself announced the change, joking about the inconvenience for fans who had already bought his No. 1 jersey. He reassured them there was still time to get the new jersey before the season started.

Bridges is reuniting with his old Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo on the Knicks.

This reunion excites fans, as the group played well in college and now has a chance to compete in the NBA.

Mikal Bridges Strengthens Knicks’ Wing Position

Bridges wore No. 1 with the Brooklyn Nets but is returning to his old number 25, which he wore in high school, college, and with the Phoenix Suns.

When he joins the Knicks, he will form a strong defensive duo with OG Anunoby. Both players are known for their defense and can guard different positions, which will help key players like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle perform better.

Bridges’ move to the Knicks was long anticipated, with teammates like Josh Hart joking about it. Despite rumors, Bridges clarified he did not ask to be traded from the Nets. The Nets decided to rebuild, which made the trade possible.

The Knicks are now seen as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, along with the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers. Adding Bridges is a big reason why.

Mikal Bridges to Wear No. 25 for Knicks After Big Trade

The Knicks traded multiple first-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets to get Mikal Bridges.

They traded Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton, Mamadi Diakite, four unprotected first-round picks (2025, 2027, 2029, 2031), a protected first-round pick in 2025 (via the Milwaukee Bucks), an unprotected first-round pick swap in 2028, and a 2025 fifth-rounder.

In return, they received Bridges, Keita Bates-Diop, Juan Pablo Vaulet’s draft rights, and a 2026 second-round pick.

Bridges had a standout 2022-23 season with the Nets, averaging 26.1 points per game over 27 games. This was a high point in his career, as his usual scoring average is around 20 points per game.

With Bridges and Anunoby starting, the Knicks have a strong wing lineup supported by Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo.

However, there are questions about whether Jalen Brunson can be the main scorer on a championship team and if the pairing of Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle will cause spacing problems on the court.

Knicks’ Offensive Power: Will It Match Their Defensive Strength?

The big question is whether the Knicks have enough offense to compete with top Eastern Conference teams like the Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Milwaukee Bucks.

While their defense is expected to be very strong, the success of their offense, led by Brunson and supported by Bridges and Randle, will be crucial for their chances in the playoffs.

Fans are eager to see how this new Knicks team performs and whether they can meet the high expectations set by these big moves in the offseason.

Boxing, often called the “sweet science,” has always had many skilled fighters competing to be the best in the world. In 2024, there are several standout boxers across different weight classes.

Greatest Boxers of All Times – Complete List

Here’s our complete list of the greatest boxers of all time.

1. Naoya Inoue

Known as “The Monster,” Naoya Inoue is one of the best boxers today. His amazing power and skills have made him a champion in four weight classes. Inoue is the first boxer to be the undisputed champion in two different weight classes in the four-belt era.

He is famous for knocking out his opponents and is the only boxer to have knocked out champions from all four major boxing organizations​.

Recently, he won the super bantamweight titles by defeating Luis Nery in May 2024 and TJ Doheny in September 2024. Inoue’s hard work and smart fighting keep him at the top of the boxing world.

2. Terence Crawford

Terence “Bud” Crawford is the undisputed champion in the welterweight division, holding titles from WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO. Crawford is known for his ability to switch his fighting stance and adjust to any opponent.

His intelligence and skill in the ring make him a tough competitor. Crawford has won in different weight classes and remains undefeated, securing his place among the best fighters in the world.

3. Oleksandr Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk is the undisputed heavyweight champion and is known for his excellent footwork and smart fighting strategy.

He moved up from the cruiserweight division to the heavyweight division, where he won against Anthony Joshua, showing he could compete at the highest level in different weight classes.

Usyk’s ability to control fights and his tactical skills make him a standout in the heavyweight division​​.

4. Canelo Alvarez

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez holds the WBA, WBC, and WBO titles in the super middleweight division. He is known for his powerful punches and ability to fight in different styles.

Despite a setback in 2021, Canelo has come back strong with recent wins, maintaining his dominance in the super middleweight division and proving himself as one of the best fighters in the world​.

5. Devin Haney

Devin Haney, the undisputed lightweight champion, is known for his speed, agility, and technical skills.

Haney controls the pace of his fights and remains undefeated, showing his strong abilities in the ring.

His continued success and smart approach to boxing have earned him a spot among the top fighters globally.

6. Dmitry Bivol

Dmitry Bivol, the WBA light heavyweight champion, is widely regarded for his exceptional technical skills and strategic prowess in the ring.

His ability to control distance and dictate the pace of his fights makes him a formidable opponent.

Bivol’s impressive victory over Canelo Alvarez in 2022 was a defining moment in his career, showcasing his ability to outbox one of the sport’s most renowned fighters.

Bivol’s defensive skills, combined with his precise punching, allow him to consistently outmaneuver and outpoint his opponents. His recent performances, including a sixth-round TKO victory over Malik Zinad, highlight his knockout power and adaptability​​.

7. Gervonta Davis

Gervonta “Tank” Davis is celebrated for his explosive punching power and his ability to finish fights with spectacular knockouts.

As the WBA lightweight champion, Davis has maintained an undefeated record, earning a reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in boxing.

His aggressive style, coupled with his speed and precision, makes him a significant threat in the lightweight division.

Davis’s ability to end fights with a single punch sets him apart from many of his peers, making every bout he participates in highly anticipated​​.

8. Shakur Stevenson

Shakur Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion, is known for his defensive mastery and technical boxing skills.

Stevenson’s ability to avoid punches and control the ring has drawn comparisons to legendary defensive fighters like Pernell Whitaker.

His intelligence and ring IQ enable him to outthink and outmaneuver his opponents, making him one of the most challenging fighters to beat.

Despite being a natural counter-puncher, Stevenson’s precise and strategic approach ensures that he consistently dominates his fights​.

9. Tyson Fury

Tyson Fury, the “Gypsy King,” remains a dominant figure in the heavyweight division. Known for his charismatic personality and unorthodox fighting style, Fury’s exceptional footwork and defensive skills make him a challenging opponent for any heavyweight.

Despite losing some titles to Oleksandr Usyk, Fury’s undefeated record and ability to adapt his strategy mid-fight keep him at the forefront of the sport.

His victories over top contenders, coupled with his larger-than-life persona, ensure that Fury continues to be a major draw in boxing​.

10. Teofimo Lopez

Teofimo Lopez is a standout in the super lightweight division, renowned for his power and fearless fighting style.

Lopez’s ability to switch stances and deliver powerful combinations makes him a formidable opponent.

His rise in the boxing world has been marked by significant victories, including a standout win over Vasiliy Lomachenko to become the unified lightweight champion.

Lopez’s aggressive approach and resilience in the ring make him a top contender in his weight class.

Check out our article where we discover boxers who died in the ring.

Don’t Miss Upcoming Fights from Boxing’s Top Stars

Boxing in 2024 is thrilling, with incredible talent across various weight divisions.

From Naoya Inoue’s explosive power to Dmitry Bivol’s technical mastery and from Terence Crawford’s adaptability to Gervonta Davis’s knockout prowess, these boxers exemplify the peak of athletic skill and determination.

If you are a boxing enthusiast or just getting into the sport, now is the perfect time to follow these extraordinary athletes.

Their upcoming fights promise to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.

Stay updated on their careers, watch their matches, and witness firsthand the dedication and hard work that make them the best in the world.

Nate Diaz is suing promoter Solomon Engel for $9 million, claiming he hasn’t been paid for his recent boxing match against Jorge Masvidal. The lawsuit alleges breach of contract and fraud, as Diaz contends Engel is reneging on their agreement due to financial issues.

Nate Diaz Files Lawsuit Claiming Unpaid $9 Million Fight Purse

Nate Diaz recently filed a lawsuit saying he is owed $9 million for his fight against Jorge Masvidal.

Diaz says he made a deal with promoter Solomon Engel and his company, Fanmio, to be paid $10 million for the fight, with $1 million paid upfront and the remaining $9 million to be paid after the event.

However, Diaz claims Engel is now backing out of the deal, saying the event could result in potential financial losses.

Diaz Claims Engel Made Desperate Calls to Avoid Payment

According to Diaz, Engel made desperate calls to his representatives after the event, saying that paying Diaz the agreed amount would cause major financial problems, including possibly having to declare bankruptcy and personal issues like divorce.

Diaz is suing for fraud and breach of contract, accusing Engel of not keeping their agreement.

“In a flurry of desperate calls to Diaz’s representatives following the event, Engel despondently groveled that he was going to lose more money than he had anticipated on the event if he paid Diaz what he had promised and that his wife might divorce him because of the financial losses,” the lawsuit states.

“Engel went so far as to threaten he might have to declare bankruptcy to avoid paying Diaz what he owed.”

Engel Denies Diaz’s Fraud Claims

Engel dismissed Diaz’s lawsuit as groundless, saying Diaz had already been paid seven figures for the fight.

Engel believes the legal process will show no fraud or contract breach happened.

“Nate Diaz has filed a frivolous lawsuit against Fanmio which claims that fraud and breach of contract were committed by Fanmio, yet neither has taken place,” Engel said in a statement.

“In fact, Diaz has already been paid seven figures in connection with the fight. I look forward to resolving this dispute through the appropriate process and am confident that justice will prevail.”

Diaz Defeats Masvidal in Sold-Out Boxing Match

Diaz and Masvidal fought in a boxing match on July 6 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, with DAZN hosting the pay-per-view broadcast.

Diaz won the fight by majority decision in a 10-round match. According to a news release issued after the event, the event was a sellout, with 18,040 fans in attendance.

Nate Diaz’s Bright Future in Combat Sports

Despite the lawsuit, Diaz remains a prominent figure in combat sports. After leaving the UFC, he made his professional boxing debut against Jake Paul and lost by unanimous decision.

His recent win over Masvidal has sparked more interest in his boxing career, and he continues to look for future fights.

No matter what happens with the lawsuit, Diaz has many options for his next steps in the ring.

Diaz’s career after the UFC has seen him move into professional boxing, and his recent performances have kept fans and fighters interested in his next moves.

With ongoing interest from active UFC fighters and other potential matchups, Diaz’s future in combat sports looks promising.

Pete Alonso, first baseman for the New York Mets, reaffirms his dedication to staying with the team amidst trade deadline speculations.

Pete Alonso’s Desire to Stay with the Mets

The future of New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso has been a persistent subplot for the club this season.

As he enters his walk year, the discussions about a long-term contract extension have not gained much traction.

Despite this, Alonso has consistently expressed his desire to remain with the Mets, the team that drafted him in 2016. During the MLB All-Star week, Alonso reaffirmed his wish to stay in Queens.

“I’m super happy to be a Met, super proud to be a Met. And, again, it’s just been awesome. I’d love to stay, and I don’t want to get traded. I love it. It’s home,” Alonso told ESPN’s Jorge Castillo.

Mets’ Midseason Turnaround Reduces Trade Speculation

Earlier in the season, the Mets’ struggles led to speculation that Alonso might be traded before the July 30 trade deadline.

As of June 2, the Mets were 11 games below .500 and seemed destined for a poor season.

However, they turned their fortunes around and, at the break, held a record of 49-46, securing the third wild-card spot in the National League.

This shift makes it less likely that the Mets will be major sellers at the deadline.

Alonso’s Strong Season Boosts His Value to Mets

While slightly below his career norms, Alonso’s performance this season remains solid. He is slashing .240/.319/.454 with 19 home runs in 95 games, which translates to a 121 OPS+.

Trading a popular and productive player like Alonso, especially when the team is contending, would be difficult.

The return for a righty-righty first baseman who is a pending free agent might not justify the negative impact on public relations.

Alonso Expresses Strong Desire to Stay with Mets

During his All-Star Game media availability, Alonso made it clear that he wishes to stay with the Mets beyond the trade deadline.

He reiterated his affection for the team and the city, saying, “I’d love to stay, and I don’t want to get traded. I love [New York]. It’s home.”

Despite the ongoing trade rumors, Alonso remains focused on helping the Mets win.

“Right now, there’s a lot that could happen, and whatever the front office and ownership decides to do, that’s their prerogative,” Alonso explained.

“But for me, my job is to do whatever I can to help win ballgames every single day. I love this organization, I love this city, so I just want to do the best I can every single night for the guys in the clubhouse and the fans.”

What’s Next for Alonso and the Mets

Right now, it doesn’t look like Pete Alonso will sign a new contract with the Mets before he can become a free agent.

Some in the MLB community think Mets executive David Stearns might consider other players, like Yankees outfielder Juan Soto.

Even so, because Alonso loves the Mets and plays really well, he will unlikely be traded this season. The Mets start the second half of their season with four games against the Miami Marlins.

These games are important for Alonso and his teammates to show that their recent good play is real and to strengthen their chances of making the playoffs.

Alonso’s words show his love and dedication: “I love New York. I love the Mets. I love being in Queens. It’s really been such a special place. Some of my best, not just baseball memories but life memories, have been in New York.“

Cam Johnson faces a new reality with the Brooklyn Nets after the surprising trade of his close teammate, Mikal Bridges. As the Nets begin rebuilding, Johnson focuses on his role and the team’s future growth.

New Chapter for Cam Johnson and the Brooklyn Nets

Cam Johnson and Mikal Bridges, often called “The Twins,” have always played together since their days in Phoenix and then Brooklyn.

But now, after Bridges’ surprising trade to the Knicks, Johnson has to adjust to playing without his close friend and longtime teammate.

Johnson has been in the NBA for five seasons, playing in 283 regular games and 38 playoff games, all with Bridges.

The trade was a big change, and Johnson found out about it rather impersonally, receiving an ESPN alert rather than hearing it directly from team officials.

Reflecting on the moment, Johnson admitted it would be strange to suit up without Bridges for the first time since their college days.

“I got an ESPN alert. I probably learned after the trade, I was probably one of the last to know,” Johnson said.

Adjusting to Life Without Bridges

“It’s going to be weird to suit up without Mikal,” Johnson admitted.

“But he’ll be good; I’ll be good. I’m looking forward to playing against him. This is a business, and teams will do what’s in their best interest. Our relationship goes beyond a team. That’s my brother for life, and I wish him the best — except when he plays us.”

As Johnson adapts, he continues discussing his role in the team’s future with Brooklyn’s general manager, Sean Marks, and new head coach, Jordi Fernandez.

Despite the uncertainty, Johnson remains focused on his development and contributions to the team.

Cam Johnson Stays Committed Amidst Nets’ Rebuild

The Nets’ trade of Bridges for five first-round picks and a pick swap signals a shift toward rebuilding.

Johnson, who signed a four-year, $94 million deal, is one of the few veterans remaining, along with Dorian Finney-Smith. Trade rumors have swirled around Johnson, but he remains committed to the Nets.

“I’m on the Brooklyn Nets right now,” Johnson stated.

“Dorian’s on the Brooklyn Nets right now. We’re focused on this group. If something happens, then something happens. But that’s how we keep the main thing the main thing.”

Johnson’s performance last season, averaging 13.4 points on .391 shooting from deep, was hindered by injuries, limiting him to 58 games.

Despite this, his length and 3-point shooting make him a valuable asset. Johnson is determined to improve and contribute to the team’s growth, working closely with Fernandez and his teammates during the offseason.

Johnson and Finney-Smith Focus on Nets’ Future

Johnson, Finney-Smith, and Marks discussed the team’s future during Brooklyn’s second Las Vegas Summer League game.

While the trade rumors persist, Johnson remains focused on his personal development and the team’s potential.

“I have enough to worry about on my end,” Johnson explained.

“Working on myself, my body, my game. Taking time in the offseason to get mentally ready for another season. We have a good group in Brooklyn that we can grow. I’m all-in and excited to play.”

Finney-Smith shared the same thoughts, saying he is committed to the team even though things are uncertain. Marks talked about how important experienced players are when a team is rebuilding. He stressed the need to stay flexible and praised the team’s potential for growth.

Nets Prioritize Growth Amid Rebuilding Phase

The Brooklyn Nets are in a rebuilding phase, focusing on development and planning for the future. Johnson and his teammates remain dedicated to the team’s growth, even with the trade rumors and uncertainties.

Johnson’s positive attitude and commitment to the team show the professionalism and resilience needed during this time.

With a talented roster and a clear focus on development, the Nets are ready to build a strong foundation for the future.