Yardbarker

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

Rich Paul: Can 'absolutely' see LeBron James playing to unheard of age

The LeBron James era of the NBA may not be winding down anytime soon, contrary to his comments after a tough postseason loss to the Nuggets. 

Sixers HC Nick Nurse talks getting to coach Joel Embiid: 'He's a problem'

You would almost certainly be hard-pressed to find an NBA coach who doesn't at least have some level of praise for Philadelphia 76ers big man Joel Embiid. 

Report: Celtics among teams to attend John Wall's private workout

The Celtics may not have a clear-cut answer for who'll replace Marcus Smart following the trade which brought Kristaps Porzingis to town, but if they're looking for experience, John Wall seems to be ready to roll. 

Gabe Vincent explains why he signed with Lakers in free agency

One of the more intriguing names the Los Angeles Lakers signed in 2023 NBA free agency was former Miami Heat guard Gabe Vincent. 

CeeDee Lamb, Brandin Cooks given surprising ranking among top WR duos

Brandin Cooks, acquired by the Cowboys this offseason via trade from the Houston Texans, is expected to make a big impact and, paired with CeeDee Lamb, could create one of the most exciting duos in football.

Texans rookie QB C.J. Stroud gets high praise: ‘He’s a straight dawg’

There's a new sheriff in Houston, and it appears he's running the huddle like a seasoned vet.  

Report: Mavericks targeting pair of intriguing free agents

The Dallas Mavericks may not have the assets to dive head-first into many trade conversations currently for top-tier talent to pair up with Luka Doncic and recently re-signed Kyrie Irving, but they're still looking to make moves. 

Lakers sign pair of former SEC standouts to two-way contracts

The Los Angeles Lakers are wrapping up a strong 2023 NBA free agency by adding a bit more talent in the form of two-way contracts. While incoming rookies Jalen Hood-Schifino and Maxwell Lewis are the two headliners of the draft class, the latest additions for the Lakers are also rookies who impressed during their collegiate careers.

Report: Specific ‘unofficial end’ of Damian Lillard’s time with Blazers revealed

It seemed apparent that Damian Lillard once again was ready and willing to stick with the Trail Blazers — assuming they could move the need this offseason even just a little. 

Former Cowboys OC Kellen Moore offers candid opinion of QB Dak Prescott

Los Angeles Chargers OC Kellen Moore spoke wistfully about Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott.

Lakers linked to former No. 10 overall pick

While he had a decent stretch to finish out last season in Portland with averages of 11 points, 2.9 rebounds and shot 44.3 percent from the field, he'll have a new home in 2023.

Clippers waive veteran scorer, adding intriguing name to free agency

The Clippers opted to end any hope of Eric Gordon, and in turn, did not guarantee his nearly-$21M salary for next season. As Andrew Greif of the Los Angeles Times reported, the Clippers waived Gordon just prior to the start of free agency.

Insider says buzz is 'ridiculous' around Heat free agent

The free-agent hype around Max Strus is starting to reach fever pitch.

Previously linked ‘realistic target’ for Lakers officially set to hit free agency

The Los Angeles Lakers are set to have a busy stretch ahead with NBA free agency getting underway and questions across the entirety of their roster.

Report: New suitor emerges targeting Lakers' key free-agent duo

A new team has reportedly surfaced with interest in a pair of Los Angeles Lakers free agents.

Sixers president called out over handling of Tobias Harris trade talks

76ers president Daryl Morey has made his fair share of blockbuster trades, big offseason moves and crucial decisions throughout his years in the NBA. But it appears his handling of one specific situation this offseason may be creating a bit of tension.

Reporter thinks Lakers potentially found their 'point guard of the future'

One NBA reporter had nothing but rave reviews when it came to Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Jalen Hood-Schifino.

Celtics' Brad Stevens addresses Marcus Smart trade, details post-trade interaction with guard

Although the Boston Celtics' trade to acquire Kristaps Porzingis and two draft picks has now snowballed into four future additional future selections and Arkansas rookie Jordan Walsh, the deal is still tough to swallow for many fans.

Lakers rookie gushes over 'surreal' feeling being drafted by team

The Los Angeles Lakers opted to keep the No. 17 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, and their decision to select Indiana Hoosiers guard Jalen Hood-Schifino was well-received by many fans and analysts alike. 

Scoot Henderson reveals thoughts on No. 3 selection, sounds off on one prospect

New Trail Blazers point guard Scoot Henderson has no issue being drafted with the No. 3 overall pick.

Celtics fans and analysts react to the Marcus Smart trade for Kristaps Porzingis

Over the past nine seasons, no one player better embodied Boston Celtics basketball than Marcus Smart.

Report: Suns considering flipping the script on plan for Deandre Ayton?

Following a 2023 NBA trade deadline featuring Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton's name as a constant in rumors and linked to numerous trades, it's been almost a foregone conclusion that his days with the franchise were numbered. Then came the blockbuster trade that didn't even seem like it would be on the table.

Report: Monty Williams had issue with two Suns players

While everyone on the 2022-23 Phoenix Suns (for the most part) did their best to put on a happy face for the bulk of the year, it appears there may have been some underlying issues and possibly some tension looming.

Damian Lillard put on blast by analyst over handling of possible Blazers trade

The back-and-forth chatter surrounding Damian Lillard potentially requesting a trade has gone on for multiple seasons now.

Report: Unexpected outcome with Chris Paul on the table for Wizards

The Washington Wizards aren't ready to press the 'go' button on the trade sending Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns just yet. According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Wizards are attempting to see what they can bring back in exchange for Chris Paul.