Author Archives: Clarke Corsan

Canucks Edge Wild 3-1 as Pettersson Ends Goal Drought

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The Vancouver Canucks picked up a crucial 3-1 win over the Minnesota Wild on Friday night at Rogers Arena, with Kiefer Sherwood playing hero late in the third period. His go-ahead goal with just 3:45 left in regulation sent the Canucks faithful into a frenzy, capping off an intense battle in which Vancouver was outshot (and honestly, outplayed) 38-20.

Sherwood’s goal, his first in 16 games, came off a cross-ice feed from Filip Hronek. He controlled the puck off his skate and quickly fired it past Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson’s blocker. The crowd erupted, chanting Sherwood’s name as he celebrated.

“It’s pretty special. You can’t really put it into words, just black out a little … I’ve never played in a market like this or fan base that’s this crazy,” Sherwood said postgame.

Elias Pettersson also found the back of the net for the first time in 16 games, blasting a power-play one-timer past Gustavsson in the first period. The goal snapped a five-game point drought for Pettersson, who acknowledged his struggles but remained focused on improving.

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“I know this hasn’t been my best season, but I can’t change it,” Pettersson said. “I’m just trying to get better every day. And today was a good day, we got a win, had a goal.”

Goaltender Kevin Lankinen was the backbone of Vancouver’s victory, making 37 saves, including key stops on shorthanded chances and a crucial breakaway attempt from Marcus Johansson.

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“He’s been standing on his head all year. He’s been incredible for us,” Pettersson added about Lankinen’s performance.

The Wild dominated much of the game, outshooting Vancouver 15-5 in the third period and hitting the post three times throughout the contest. Brock Faber tied the game early in the third with a power-play blast from the top of the circles, but despite heavy pressure, Minnesota couldn’t find a way past Lankinen again.

With 54 seconds remaining, Teddy Blueger sealed the win with an empty-net goal.

The victory marks the Canucks’ second straight home win after a rough 1-4-0 road trip. Coach Rick Tocchet praised his team’s defensive play but emphasized the need for more offensive production.

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“I think we’ve been playing pretty good defense the last six weeks,” Tocchet said. “But, obviously, we’ve got to start scoring some goals.”

Vancouver will look to build momentum as they continue their push toward playoff positioning.

LeBron James Confronts Stephen A. Smith Over Bronny Criticism

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LeBron James and Stephen A. Smith found themselves at the center of a viral moment Thursday night during the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the New York Knicks. Cameras captured a heated courtside exchange between the four-time NBA champion and the ESPN personality, sparking speculation on social media about what was said. Now, Smith has broken his silence to clear the air.

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According to Smith, the confrontation stemmed from LeBron’s frustration over criticism of his son, Bronny James. While there was speculation that James called Smith a “punk” or other derogatory names, the analyst firmly denied that, instead recounting LeBron’s words directly.

“He was fiery,” Smith said on his show. “He approached me during the game and he said, ‘Stop (expletive) with my son. That’s my (expletive) son. Stop (expletive) with my son.'”

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) interacts with son Bronny James Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Smith, caught off guard, tried to de-escalate the situation but noted that LeBron was insistent.

“I saw how furious he was,” Smith continued. “And I said we can talk about it later. [LeBron responded] ‘Nah, (expletive) that. (Expletive) that. Stop (expletive) with my son. That’s my son. That’s my son.'”

Bronny James, LeBron’s eldest son, has been a hot topic of discussion in NBA circles. After being selected in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft by the Lakers, Bronny has struggled to find consistent playing time. Splitting time between the Lakers and their G-League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, Bronny has averaged just 4.2 minutes per game in his rookie season, with modest stats of 1.4 points, 0.4 assists, and 0.4 rebounds per game. Given his limited role and performance, Smith has been vocal in his opinions and analysis, questioning whether Bronny was ready for the NBA or if he was drafted primarily due to his father’s influence- aka a ‘nepo-baby’

While LeBron’s passion for defending his son is understandable, Smith made it clear that he would not shy away from giving his professional opinion on any player, including Bronny. It remains to be seen whether Smith will soften his stance moving forward, but one thing is certain—the basketball world will be watching closely as this situation continues to unfold.

Why Seattle Traded Geno Smith to the Raiders

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Geno Smith is on the move to reunite with former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll in Las Vegas after the Seattle Seahawks dealt him to the Raiders in exchange for a 2025 3rd round draft pick. Here’s why Seattle GM John Schneider made the move: 

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Price

Smith and his camp were reportedly looking for a deal in the $45 million/per year range, while Seattle was hoping to retain Geno for no more than $35 million per year. After his infamous “I didn’t write back” season, Geno Smith signed a 3 year, $75,000,000 contract with Seattle, including $40,000,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $25,000,000. In 2025, Smith will earn a base salary of $14,800,000, a roster bonus of $16,000,000 and a workout bonus of $200,000, while carrying a cap hit of $31,000,000- which will now go against the Raiders salary cap. 

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Age

While Smith hasn’t necessarily showed any signs of slowing down; rather, he appears to just be getting started- the Seahawks looked at the situation two ways. A- they could give the 34-year-old $45 million a year, or trade him for a 3rd round pick and target Sam Darnold in free agency where the market appears to have Darnold set to make around $35-38 million. So, a 34-year-old aging QB for $45 million, or a 27-year-old QB with potential for $10 million less and a third round pick. When you put it that way, it actually seems like a reasonable idea. Of course, this hinges on Schneider’s ability to actually convince Darnold to sign in Seattle for that price. 

Scheme fit

Smith has had success in Seattle under multiple coaching regimes and offensive playbooks. Last year, former Washington Huskies offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb earned the job as Seahawks OC, and while expectations were high for a pass-heavy offence, Grubb’s system didn’t mesh with HC Mike Macdonald’s overall philosophy and we ended up seeing that in the on-field product much throughout the season. Seattle hired former Saints OC Klint Kubiak after Grubb’s departure in 2025, which is designed to be a run-first offence, and Smith decided his talents would be put to better use elsewhere and requested a trade.

So, while Seattle has had a crazy handful of days as they near offseason free agency, trading Geno Smith to the Raiders may present a new opportunity for the Seahawks’ direction under 2nd year HC Mike Macdonald as he rebuilds his team the way he envisions.

Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy Arrested on Felony Domestic Violence Charge

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Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy was arrested Friday night in Williamson County, Texas, on a felony domestic violence charge.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy runs the ball during the first half of the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (Charlie Riedel/AP)

The 21-year-old rookie was booked on a charge of assault of a family or household member by impeding breathing or circulation.

The Chiefs acknowledged Worthy’s arrest in a brief statement, saying they were aware of the situation and gathering more information. As of early Saturday afternoon, online records indicated Worthy had not yet posted bond.

According to Worthy’s attorneys, the incident stemmed from a dispute between the receiver and a woman he had asked to leave his residence. They claim the woman damaged property and scratched Worthy’s face but that Worthy declined to press charges against her.

“We will continue to cooperate with Williamson County authorities as we have full faith their thorough investigation will support Mr. Worthy’s innocence,” the attorneys said in a statement.

In Texas, impeding a family member’s breathing or circulation is a third-degree felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of two to ten years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Worthy was the Chiefs’ first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and had a promising rookie season, catching 59 passes for 638 yards and scoring nine touchdowns. He also played a big role in helping the Chiefs to their third Superbowl appearance in three years, though their bid for the three-peat fell short against the Eagles.

The Chiefs seem to have an unusually high number of legal cases with their players, including Rashee Rice, former WR Tyreek Hill and others. Worthy’s arrest casts uncertainty over his future with the team as legal proceedings unfold.

Bills Lock Up DE Greg Rousseau with Four-Year, $80 Million Extension

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The Buffalo Bills are keeping one of their top defensive playmakers in town for the long haul.

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On Saturday, the team agreed to a four-year, $80 million contract extension with defensive end Greg Rousseau, including $54 million guaranteed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

A 2021 first-round pick, Rousseau was set to play on his fifth-year option, but the new deal ensures he remains with the Bills through the 2029 season. The extension follows a recent trend for Buffalo, who have also locked up wide receiver Khalil Shakir and linebacker Terrel Bernard with deals running through 2029.

Since entering the league, Rousseau has developed into a key defensive force. In four seasons, he has recorded 25 sacks, 15 passes defensed, and 66 quarterback hits. His 53 pressures last season ranked fourth in the NFL, and he was one of only seven players to post both a 25% run-stop win rate and a 15% pass-rush win rate (minimum 400 pass rushes).

Bills general manager Brandon Beane expressed confidence in Rousseau’s continued growth.

“I thought Greg did a nice job, had some good games for us, still showed some ascension,” Beane said at the NFL Combine. “I don’t think he’s necessarily peaked out or anything. I think Greg needs to continue to take another step. We would like to see Greg be a double-digit sack player.”

Fans have had mixed reactions to the deal

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Rousseau has led the Bills in quarterback hits, sacks, and batted passes since 2021. Coming off a career-best 24 QB hits and tying his personal best with eight sacks last season, the 25-year-old remains a cornerstone of Buffalo’s defense.

With free agency approaching, the Bills are also looking at potential extensions for key players, including running back James Cook and cornerback Christian Benford. The team is working to get under the salary cap before the start of the new league year on Wednesday, but securing Rousseau’s future was clearly a top priority.

Bengals Re-Sign TE Mike Gesicki to Three-Year, $25.5 Million Deal

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The Cincinnati Bengals are keeping a key piece of their offense in place, re-signing tight end Mike Gesicki to a three-year, $25.5 million contract. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the deal includes $12 million in the first year.

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) celebrates a reception in the second quarter of the NFL Week 13 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024. / Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Gesicki, 29, proved to be a valuable target for quarterback Joe Burrow in 2024 after signing a one-year deal with Cincinnati. He finished the season with 65 receptions for 665 yards and two touchdowns—his best production since his standout 2021 campaign with the Miami Dolphins.

 

With Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins commanding significant defensive attention, Gesicki became a reliable middle-of-the-field option, converting 38 catches into first downs. By the end of the season, Burrow had openly advocated for the Bengals to retain him.

Gesicki primarily served as Cincinnati’s receiving tight end, complementing Drew Sample, who was more involved in run blocking. The Bengals haven’t had a consistent pass-catching tight end since C.J. Uzomah’s departure in 2021, making Gesicki’s return a crucial move. Hopefully, we’ll get to see more of the ‘Gesicki Griddy’ in the coming seasons.

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With Burrow back healthy and a strong supporting cast, the Bengals are hoping to reload for another playoff push. Keeping Gesicki ensures continuity in the offense while giving Burrow a trusted security blanket over the middle.

This move continues a trend of tight ends using short-term Bengals contracts as a springboard for bigger deals. If Gesicki builds on his success, Cincinnati could have found a long-term answer at the position.

DK Metcalf to the Texans? Houston’s Offense Could Get Even Scarier

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The Houston Texans have already built one of the most exciting young offenses in the NFL, but could they take it to another level by adding DK Metcalf? With the Seahawks receiver requesting a trade, Houston could be an ideal landing spot for the two-time Pro Bowler.

Sep 30, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions safety Brandon Joseph (12) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) in the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Texans swung big last offseason by trading for Stefon Diggs, but his torn ACL leaves his future uncertain. Tank Dell is also recovering from a multi-ligament injury, making the receiver position a question mark beyond Nico Collins. The recent trade for Christian Kirk helps, but adding Metcalf would give Houston a legitimate superstar target for C.J. Stroud.

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) runs with the ball in the second quarter, Thursday, October 31, 2024, in East Rutherford. / Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Stroud, who took the league by storm in his rookie season, is still on a cheap rookie deal. That means the Texans can afford to be aggressive in building around him before they eventually have to hand him a massive extension. Metcalf would provide a physical, dominant presence that complements Houston’s other weapons and makes life even easier for their young star quarterback.

DK Metcalf’s most recent IG post liked by CJ Stroud. . Future Houston Texan?
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The price? A 2025 first-round pick and a three-year, $93 million extension. It’s a hefty investment, but one that could give the Texans one of the most dangerous passing attacks in the league.

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Houston’s offensive line is still a work in progress, and some might argue that fixing it should be the top priority. But if the Texans believe they can address both areas this offseason, trading for Metcalf would be a massive statement that they’re ready to compete for a Super Bowl now—not just in the future. Though, some on X believe the Texans should restrain from acquiring the downfield beast.

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Still- adding Metcalf to an offense with Stroud, Collins, Dell (when healthy), and Kirk would give Houston a terrifying amount of firepower. If general manager Nick Caserio is serious about giving Stroud everything he needs to succeed, pulling off a trade for Metcalf could be the ultimate power move.

DK Metcalf to the Chiefs? The Move That Could Break the NFL

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The Kansas City Chiefs are already the NFL’s most dominant team, but what if they added DK Metcalf to the mix? With the Seahawks star receiver requesting a trade, Kansas City could make an aggressive move to give Patrick Mahomes an elite playmaker and further cement their dynasty.

Dec 24, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) catches a pass in the end zone but lands out of bounds against the Kansas City Chiefs during the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images / Denny Medley-Imagn Images

The Chiefs’ offense has been electric for years, but the 2024 season exposed some cracks. Travis Kelce is still productive but aging, and their receiving corps was inconsistent, relying heavily on rookie Xavier Worthy. Marquise Brown and DeAndre Hopkins were brought in but failed to make a lasting impact, and Rashee Rice was sidelined with a knee injury. Adding Metcalf would instantly give Mahomes the big-bodied, physical target he’s lacked since Tyreek Hill’s departure.

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The cost? A 2025 first-round pick and a three-year, $93 million contract extension. That’s a serious investment, but Kansas City has never been afraid to make bold moves when it comes to keeping their offense dominant.

The Chiefs have typically preferred to develop young, cost-controlled receivers rather than investing in expensive veterans, but Metcalf could be the exception. Andy Reid has made splashy offensive moves before, and if he sees Metcalf as the missing piece, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Kansas City go all-in.

Pairing Metcalf with Mahomes would be terrifying for opposing defenses. Imagine defenses trying to cover Metcalf, Rice, Worthy, and Kelce all at once. It’s the kind of move that could take an already elite offense and make it nearly unstoppable.

There are other needs—Kansas City’s offensive line took a hit when they traded Joe Thuney—but if Brett Veach believes he can fix that in the draft or free agency, the Chiefs could afford to swing big on Metcalf.

If Kansas City wants to keep its offensive juggernaut rolling and create a nearly unfair receiving corps, trading for Metcalf might just be the ultimate power move.

DK Metcalf to the Packers? Why Green Bay Could Make a Move

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DK Metcalf wants out of Seattle, and the Green Bay Packers might just be the perfect landing spot for the star wide receiver.

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) makes a catch against the Chicago Bears on Dec. 26. | Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images

With a young, ascending quarterback in Jordan Love and an offense loaded with potential, Metcalf could be the final piece that helps push Green Bay back into serious Super Bowl contention.

The Packers have been aggressive in improving their roster, and adding Metcalf would give Love the kind of physically dominant, go-to target that every young quarterback dreams of. At 6-foot-4, 235 pounds, Metcalf is a nightmare for defensive backs and would provide Green Bay with the true No. 1 receiver they’ve been missing since Davante Adams was traded to the Raiders.

Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers warms up before the Packers’ game against the Minnesota Vikings in Green Bay, Wis., on Sunday.Patrick McDermott / Getty Images

The cost? CBS Sports projects Metcalf’s trade value at a 2025 first-round pick, plus a contract extension in the range of three years, $93 million. That’s a hefty price, but for a team that believes it’s on the verge of competing for a championship, it could be well worth it. Green Bay’s receiving corps is full of young talent—Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Jayden Reed—but none of them possess Metcalf’s combination of size, speed, and experience.

From Metcalf’s perspective, the Packers check a lot of boxes. They have a stable organization, a winning culture, and a quarterback on the rise. Plus, they’re a playoff-caliber team that could be a legitimate contender with the right pieces in place. If he truly wants to play for a contender, Green Bay makes a ton of sense.

Of course, there are challenges. Green Bay isn’t known for making splashy trades, and general manager Brian Gutekunst might be hesitant to give up a first-round pick and commit big money to a receiver. But with the NFC looking more wide open than ever, this could be the kind of bold move that helps the Packers take the next step. Packers WR Dontayvion Wicks has been named as part of a potential return to Seattle in a Metcalf trade.

The idea of Metcalf lining up in Green Bay’s offense is exciting. Imagine Love dropping back and launching deep balls to one of the fastest, most physical receivers in the league. If the Packers want to maximize their current window and give their young QB a legitimate superstar weapon, trading for Metcalf could be the move that puts them over the top.

DK Metcalf to the Patriots? A Franchise-Altering Move

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The New England Patriots need a game-changer on offense, and DK Metcalf might be exactly that. With the star wide receiver requesting a trade from Seattle, the Patriots—desperate for an elite playmaker to pair with franchise QB Drake Maye—could be an ideal landing spot.

Drake Maye of the New England Patriots reacts after a touchdown in a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium on Dec. 1, 2024. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images)

For years, New England has struggled to find a true WR1. They’ve cycled through free-agent signings, mid-round draft picks, and veteran stopgaps, but none have provided the kind of dominant, go-to presence that Metcalf would bring. At 6-foot-4 and 235 pounds with elite speed, he’s a mismatch nightmare and a red-zone weapon—something the Patriots have sorely lacked.

Oct 10, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14) carries the ball after a catch during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field.

Of course, there’s the question of who will be throwing him the ball. The Patriots are in the midst of a quarterback transition, with a top draft pick likely being used on a new franchise QB. What better way to set up a young signal-caller for success than by giving him a superstar target from Day 1?

The cost? A 2025 first-round pick and a contract extension worth around $93 million over three years. Pricey? Absolutely. Worth it for a team in dire need of offensive firepower? No doubt.

Metcalf has made it clear he wants to land with a contender, and while New England is far from that right now, this move would be a signal of intent. It would immediately make the Patriots’ offense more dangerous and give their next quarterback a legitimate No. 1 weapon to build chemistry with.

New England’s cap situation is also favorable. They have the flexibility to absorb Metcalf’s next deal while continuing to build around him. Adding him to an offense that already has young talent like Demario Douglas and a (hopefully) improved offensive line could speed up the Patriots’ rebuild significantly.

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Would Bill Belichick have made this move? Probably not. But with a new regime in place, the Patriots could finally break their cycle of offensive mediocrity and make a big splash.

If the Patriots are serious about getting back to competing in the AFC, acquiring Metcalf would be a statement. This team needs a star, and Metcalf is available. Now it’s just a matter of whether New England is ready to pull the trigger on a franchise-changing move.