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As we wait to see what the Sacramento Kings do to reshape their roster this year under new GM Scott Perry, one thing stands out. The retread of rumors from the past is gone, and has been replaced with new, bigger, and better names.
Monte McNair will be remembered for a few things from his time in Sacramento, likely with breaking the playoff drought being at the top of the list. But right behind that feat will be how often the Kings were linked to a deal that never actually happened.
Over McNair's five seasons in Sacramento, the Kings were linked to big names like Pascal Siakam, Ben Simmons, and OG Anunoby, but he was unable to pull off any big moves other than the Tyrese Haliburton and Domantas Sabonis swap.
The list goes on, with players in Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, Kyle Kuzma, and Cam Johnson all being linked to the Kings over the past few seasons.
One of the most frustrating parts for both fans (and players) was that the Kings never pulled the trigger to bring in more talent, but the Kings were linked to the same players offseason after offseason, and trade deadline after trade deadline.
It became a yearly tradition to examine the possibility of Kuzma or Collins joining the Kings as rumors continued to pour out. But refreshingly, this offseason, we haven't heard any of those same names in Kings rumors.
The majority of players the Kings have been linked to are still available. Markkanen reportedly is once again on the market, and the Nets are dangling Johnson to move up in the draft. The Milwaukee Bucks are in limbo as everyone waits to see what happens with Giannis Antetokounmpo, and it wouldn't be shocking if they moved Kuzma. While these names are still out there, we haven't heard any linked to the Kings.
The Brooklyn Nets could reportedly look to package Cam Johnson in a trade to acquire a second lottery pick, per @NYPost_Lewis
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 27, 2025
“There is a sentiment around the league the Nets could look to land a second lottery pick by consolidating and packaging some combination of Johnson,… pic.twitter.com/5KROUuhRk1
Perry appears to have his sights set higher and bigger, and we appear to have entered a new era of rumors. The Kings have been connected to Trae Young and Darius Garland of late as they search for a new point guard.
To be fair, the Kings' needs this offseason are much different than in years past after trading De'Aaron Fox. But while they need a point guard, they still need to add length and athleticism.
It's possible that after the Kings take care of the lead guard spot that they shift their focus back to forwards, and we hear the names of old. But for now, at least, it's refreshing to hear different rumors surrounding Sacramento.
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Celtics Predicted to Land All-Star in Major Free Agent Move
The Boston Celtics are likely not done making moves this offseason. They have already traded both Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in order to get under the second apron of the luxury tax. Boston is still looking to make moves to achieve that goal, as they are around $20 million over that threshold. The Celtics will need some other players to sign on the cheap in order to fill out the roster once they trade more guys. One of the guys who they have been linked to in the last few weeks is Ben Simmons, the former All-Star point guard. More news: Celtics Star Derrick White Makes Huge Announcement Boston seems to be the frontrunner to sign Simmons in free agency. Simmons has been bouncing around from team to team ever since his disastrous 2021 Eastern Conference playoffs. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Celtics are the favorites to sign him right now. That doesn't mean that another team can't end up signing him instead. Simmons isn't going to command a large salary, as those years have long passed. He is a negative when it comes to shooting the basketball, as defenses play 10 feet off of him at all times. Still, he's a very good ball handler and a strong passer. His defensive qualities are the most attractive part about him, as he can switch across multiple positions on that end of the court. Boston is in need of some strong defenders in the backcourt after trading away Jrue Holiday. The defense in general is about to be worse without the rim protection of Porzingis, too. More news: Kristaps Porzingis Opens Up on Mysterious Illness While With Celtics The Celtics are likely going to take a gap year next season with Jayson Tatum out with a torn Achilles, so why not take a flier on someone of Simmons' caliber? Simmons is running out of options in the NBA to show that he can be an All-Star caliber player again. He clearly has mental demons on the court that he can't seem to conquer. While playing for the Clippers last season after being bought out by the Nets, Simmons averaged just 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. He shot just 43.4 percent from the field. More news: Celtics Rumors: Insider Provides Massive Update on Potential $100 Million Trade For more news and notes on the Boston Celtics, visit Boston Celtics on SI.
Final Fantasy Meets Dragon Quest In Legendary Crossover
What’s more iconic than Cloud wielding a Buster Sword? How about Cloud rocking Erdrick’s Armor and wrecking Dragon Quest monsters all in one event? That’s right, Square Enix has decided to gift us mere mortals a crossover between Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis and Dragon Quest Tact. This limited event runs from July 30 to August 6, and if you’re not hyped yet, you might want to check your gaming pulse. But what does this actually mean for you? Well, buckle up, because this crossover is more than just a gimmick. It’s packed with so much fan service that even Sephiroth might need a break from brooding to join in on the fun. The Chaos, The Loot, The Slimeocalypse First off, Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis is about to host King Slime and his slimy gang because, apparently, even pixels deserve to meet their heroes. Players get to battle these absurdly charming enemies and earn event-exclusive gear worthy of both franchises. We’re talking Cloud stepping into Erdrick’s Armor and wielding what is unquestionably one of the most epic swords in gaming. Aerith, not to be outdone, is gracefully handed the Supreme Sage Garb because, you know, killing enemies and looking fabulous is her thing. And don’t even get me started on Sephiroth taking a cosplay detour as Psaro. Imagine one iconic villain dressing up as another. It’s meta. It’s chaotic. It’s everything we didn’t know we needed. Players, Prepare for Nostalgia Overload The crossover also throws in daily free draws, a boatload of loot, and arguably, a reason to ditch any other mobile games cluttering up your screen time. There’s something inherently rewarding about collecting crossover goodies that scream, “I was there when Square Enix decided Cloud needed an RPG glow-up with Dragon Quest-style flair.” Some highlights from the event include: Daily Free Ten Pulls (Spoiler Alert: Prepare for gacha heartbreak… and joy). Crossover Missions loaded with rewards like Red XIII’s Great Sabrecat Collar (think of it as drip for your furry companion). Event Bonuses that range from refined Mythril piles to rare crossover wallpapers that scream, “Yeah, I’m that gamer.” And, oh yeah, login bonuses stacked higher than a stack of pancakes at a chocobo-catered brunch. Why This Crossover Actually Slaps If you’re rolling your eyes at the idea of yet another crossover event, it’s time for a quick reality check. This isn’t just a lazy cash-grab with recycled assets and buzzwords. It’s a love letter to fans of both games, blending two legendary worlds into an experience that’s as ridiculous as it is satisfying. Think of it like a bizarre but beautiful RPG fever dream where Dragon Quest monsters challenge Final Fantasy heroes, and the only loser is anyone who missed out. Plus, when was the last time you saw King Slime try to flex on Aerith? Exactly. Is this Peak Mobile Gaming? Now, will this event cure all your gaming ailments? Probably not. Will it load up your plate with so much nostalgia and fan-service-packed chaos that even your backlog of unplayed games might get jealous? Absolutely. Square Enix’s crossover brilliance usually lies in its ability to unite wildly different fandoms and generate hype that turns even the most casual gamer into a midnight-grinding, loot-obsessed fan. And if that’s not peak mobile gaming, what even is? Final Thoughts Events like these are why gaming history has a vault packed with “Hype Levels Overload” moments. Whether you’re here for the loot, the cross-franchise cosplays, or just some good old-fashioned Dragon Quest monster smashing with your favorite FF cast, this event delivers on every front. Hot tip? Set your alarms. Grab your popcorn. And pray that RNG is in your favor for those 10 pulls. Trust me, you’ll want bragging rights when someone asks why Cloud suddenly looks like he walked out of a Dragon Quest cutscene. Remember, this party only lasts for a week. Don’t sleep on it, because King Slime certainly won’t. Be sure to visit Total Apex Gaming for more game-related news and content.
Yankees Named Frontrunners for Pirates Closer
Just about every contender besides the New York Yankees has picked up a reliever or two ahead of today's trade deadline, but that could soon change. The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal has reported that the Yankees are currently discussing a deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates for right-handed closer David Bednar, and that an official from another club involved in the sweepstakes for the two-time All-Star believes New York is the favorite to land him. "The New York Yankees, facing the losses of top relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver to free agency, are seeking a high-leverage arm who is under club control beyond this season," Rosenthal wrote. "Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar fits the description. "The Yankees and Pirates are discussing a trade involving Bednar, according to sources briefed on the discussions. An official from one team involved in the pursuit of Bednar believes the Yankees are the front-runner." USA Today's Bob Nightengale previously reported that the asking price for Bednar was inflating amidst mounting interest in him around the league. Furthermore, MLB insider Francys Romero stated that the Yankees and Pirates had discussions surrounding the 30-year-old over the weekend, though no deal came together at that time. Bednar was among the league's top relievers from 2021 to 2023, logging a 2.25 ERA and 61 saves in 179 2/3 innings over that stretch while making trips to the Midsummer Classic in 2022 and 2023. The 2024 campaign was a rough one for him, as he finished with a 5.77 ERA across 57 2/3 frames, but he's completely bounced back this year to the tune of a 2.37 ERA and 1.96 FIP with 17 saves in 38 innings for Pittsburgh. With most of the other premier bullpens arms now off the market, there's an argument to be made that Bednar's the best player available at the position. He'll cost a good amount considering he's under control next season as well, but the Yankees look poised to make a move. Make sure to bookmark Yankees On SI to get all your daily New York Yankees news, interviews, breakdowns and more! Tigers Land Yankees Trade Target Yankees' Luis Gil Starting vs. Marlins Yankees Linked to Blockbuster Trade with Marlins Yankees Lose Elite Closer to Padres Yankees Could Make Big Move with Rookie Pitcher
Green Bay Packers Insider Reveals 1 Surprising Wide Receiver Turning Heads During Training Camp
One of the biggest questions in Green Bay Packers training camp is who will emerge to join the team’s top five wide receivers on the initial 53-man roster when the preseason comes to an end. With Christian Watson likely unavailable to start the season due to his recovery from a torn ACL, Green Bay’s top five wide receivers, in no particular order, are Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, Dontayvion Wicks, Matthew Gold, and Savion Williams. The first three listed, Doubs, Reed, and Wicks, are veterans (still on their rookie contracts) that led the Packers in passing targets last season. Regardless of whatever trade rumors may have circulated in the past, none of them are going anywhere. The last two, of course, were both selected by Green Bay in the 2025 NFL Draft. Golden was the first wide receiver the Packers took in the first round since 2002, and Williams was taken in the third round. Both should be considered locks for the 53-man roster. There Are Many Green Bay Packers Wide Receivers Vying for a Job So crowded is the Packers wide receiver room that Bo Melton, who played the position for the past two seasons in Green Bay, switched to cornerback in hopes to improve his chances of making the 53-man roster. But even with Melton switching positions, the Packers have a plethora of talented wide receivers competing for one (or two at the most) spots on the 53-man roster that are reserved for the position. Malik Heath, an undrafted free agent in 2023, made Green Bay’s 53-man roster in each of the past two seasons. Mecole Hardman, a three-time Super Bowl winner with the Kansas City Chiefs, was signed as a free agent earlier this year, though the only part of his contract that is guaranteed was his $150,000 signing bonus. In addition to these players, the Packers also have Julian Hicks, Cornelius Johnson, Will Sheppard, and Sam Brown Jr. competing. And one of them is starting make reporters raise an eyebrow. Green Bay Packers Wide Receiver Sam Brown Jr. Is Turning Heads in Training Camp Brown Jr. was an undrafted free agent that the Packers signed earlier this year. His signing was notable because he and Golden were teammates at Houston. While his signing may have been an afterthought by many fans given the name recognition of the team’s top pass catchers, Packers insider Wes Hodkiewicz recently wrote that the young rookie is making his presence known in training camp: “Sam Brown Jr., Golden’s former Houston teammate, keeps finding ways to get noticed for the right reasons, too. It seems like every practice he’s making at least one catch that makes you go, ‘Oh.'” Last season, Brown played at Miami and had 36 receptions for 509 yards and two touchdowns. The year prior, 2023, when he and Golden were teammates, Brown led Houston with 62 receptions for 815 yards. He also scored three touchdowns. It is still a longshot for Brown to make the roster, but if he continues to wow coaches, he could end up on the Packers practice squad this season.
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