New Orleans Saints
Donte DiVincenzo Takes Subtle Jab at Knicks After Timberwolves Beat Lakers
Donte DiVincenzo Takes Subtle Jab at Knicks After Timberwolves Beat Lakers
Donte DiVincenzo of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Donte DiVincenzo sent a message to the New York Knicks, his former team, after he helped the Minnesota Timberwolves take a 1-0 lead against the favored No. 3 seed Los Angeles Lakers.
In an interview with The Athletic, DiVincenzo revealed he watched the first half of the Knicks’ Game 1 win over the Detroit Pistons.
“I watch it from a different point of view now,” DiVincenzo, who had nine points, five rebounds, and four assists in 24:33 of playing time, told The Athletic afterward. “I’m watching my boys hoop, but I’m also watching from the basketball perspective. What did me and Julius bring that maybe they’re missing? Or what did KAT have here (with the Timberwolves) where we implement something different?
“So, obviously, you have a chip on your shoulder, and you wish them the best. But at the same time, you also want to send a message. We’re over here, and we’re focused on winning as many games over here as possible. And KAT’s in the same position as us. Send a message to the Timberwolves. It’s natural.”
DiVincenzo watched the Knicks struggle in the opening half against the Pistons. He missed the Knicks’ 21-0 run that ripped the hearts out of the Pistons for the come-from-behind win.
Karl-Anthony Towns went berserk in the second half to finish with 21 points, 11 rebounds and five assists with four steals and two blocks. Towns shot an ultra-efficient 10-of-14 from the field.
He provided the Knicks what they lacked in the playoffs when Randle was in New York — efficiency and star power next to Jalen Brunson.
DiVincenzo also missed Cam Payne‘s second-half heroics, sparking the Knicks’ second-half comeback.
Payne finished with 14 points and a game-high plus-23 in a spark plug role which DiVincenzo filled admirably that made him a fan-favorite in New York last year.
Win-Win Trade?
While DiVincenzo is still keeping tabs on his former team, he and Julius Randle have also found their groove with their new team.
They helped the Timberwolves finish with a strong 17-4 record in their last 21 games to punch the sixth seed.
DiVincenzo averaged 13.1 points on 44.8% 3-point shooting, 3.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.1 steals during this span. On the other hand, Randle produced 18.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 5.2 assists while shooting 52.3% from the field and 39.8% from deep.
Then they dominated the Lakers in Game 1 of their playoff series.
Randle contributed 16 points, five rebounds and five assists in the Timberwolves’ 117-95 rout of the Lakers, his first playoff game since missing the Knicks’ postseason run last year.
The Towns-Randle/DiVincenzo trade was initially judged as great for the Knicks and bad for the Timberwolves. But as the Timberwolves continue to look like a contender with the former Knicks duo, the trade is beginning to look like a win-win.
Donte DiVincenzo Prides Timberwolves Depth
Six players scored nine or more points in their Game 1 win, showcasing the Timberwolves’ newfound depth, which they did not have last year in their top-heavy offense led by Anthony Edwards and Towns.
Jaden McDaniels led the team in scoring with 25. Naz Reid, who is having a breakout season following Towns’ departure, added 23, while Edwards finished with 22.
DiVincenzo takes pride in how the Timberwolves are coming along just at the right time.
“The beautiful thing about this team is that when Jaden has a night like tonight, you keep it rolling with Jaden,” DiVincenzo said. “When Naz has a night like tonight, you keep it rolling with Naz. Mike can have a night. I can have a night. Julius can have a night. Most teams don’t have that. Most teams have your top two, three guys who may have a night. But here, we have eight guys who can have a night.
“It’s a different dynamic with Julius and I. For (starters), you’ve got two people who you can throw at (the other team). But also, you have two different types of guys. I think our makeup with Julius and I here is that we blend in well with them. We can have any eight guys guard Luka. … I’m not saying you’re going to stop him. I’m just saying you have eight guys to throw bodies at him, and it’s a full 48-minute game. When you have eight guys, you can just keep funneling them in. We’re in shape. We’re conditioned. And we want that challenge.”
It’s that depth which the Knicks missed in the regular season and nearly led to an embarrassing Game 1 loss until Payne bailed them out.
New Orleans Saints
BREAKING: Saints sign possible starting quarterback to play alongside Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara ahead of 2025 NFL season
BREAKING: Saints sign possible starting quarterback to play alongside Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara ahead of 2025 NFL season
The New Orleans Saints are in the middle of a quarterback battle. Now, they have signed a possible starter to their roster.
The New Orleans Saints might have one of the weakest quarterback rooms in the NFL. However, that hasn’t stopped the team of having a quarterback battle to see who will command the offense. An offense, by the way, that has the likes of Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara on the roster.
According to Adam Schefter, from ESPN, the Saints have signed QB Tyler Shough to his rookie contract. This will be a fully-guaranteed $10.795 million contract. This is a part of the whole second-rounders signing guaranteed deals. Now, the quarterback is ready to go for training camp.
At pick No. 40, Shough is the last player picked in the 2025 NFL Draft to get a fully-guaranteed deal. The contract also includes annual ‘Roster Bonus‘ structure, something that only first round pick have. With this, Shough will receive the majority of his pay each year during the first week of training camp.
Shough has to earn his spot
While many think Shough will start, he has to earn the starting role. He is currently competing with Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. Shough was picked in the second round so there is some sort of hype behind him. However, the fact that he hasn’t been announced as the starter might concern some as the competition isn’t the most tough.
Rattler and Haener failed to deliver last season. Shough played for Louisville in 2024 and he threw for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, all while completing 62.7% of his passes. Shough didn’t set the College Football stage on fire, but at least he brings a fresh face to a roster that desperately needs a good passer.
The Saints should have a decent offense
Newly-appointed head coach Kellen Moore made a name for himself by being an explosive play-drawer as offensive coordinator. Moore likes big plays, establishing play-action and explosive runs. Now, he will have to be more lenient as his quarterbacks are not proven NFL talents.
That doesn’t mean the Saints are talent-less on offense. Chris Olave, when healthy, is a top-tier wideout in the league. Also, Alvin Kamara is one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the NFL. He is a very good runner, and an elite pass-catcher, making him one of the best running backs you can have.
Taysom Hill to Denver? Reunion with Sean Payton Could Be Brewing
In what could become one of the most talked-about NFL moves of the offseason, rumors are swirling that Taysom Hill may be on his way out of New Orleans, and the Denver Broncos are reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation. With the Saints undergoing a transformation at quarterback, Hill’s future with the franchise that gave him a chance is suddenly in question.
Hill, the dynamic Swiss Army knife of the Saints, has long been a fan favorite in New Orleans thanks to his versatility, toughness, and explosive playmaking. But as the team shifts focus toward younger signal-callers and a traditional quarterback setup, his high price tag and undefined role are now under scrutiny by the front office.
Enter Sean Payton, the former Saints head coach who now leads the Denver Broncos. Payton is the coach who believed in Hill more than anyone, once calling him “Steve Young-like” in his potential. Under Payton’s guidance, Hill played quarterback, tight end, special teams, and more. Now, there’s growing buzz about a potential reunion between the two in Denver.
Reports from multiple sources suggest the Broncos could make a move for Hill if the Saints release him as a cap casualty or if he becomes trade bait. With Denver also experiencing quarterback uncertainty and needing offensive versatility, Hill could be seen as the perfect chess piece in Payton’s playbook once again.
Fans in New Orleans are split on the possibility of losing Hill. Some believe it’s time to move forward with a younger, cheaper roster, especially as the team tries to retool and compete in a wide-open NFC South. Others see Hill as a cultural cornerstone—a leader whose heart and grit can’t be measured in stats or salary.
Meanwhile, Denver fans are buzzing at the thought of bringing Hill to Mile High. With Russell Wilson gone and questions surrounding their current quarterback room, Hill could be used in hybrid packages that inject creativity and unpredictability into an offense in need of life.
From a business standpoint, moving Hill could help the Saints gain cap flexibility. He’s currently under a contract that includes voidable years and bonuses that escalate his hit. A trade or release would be difficult emotionally but potentially smart financially, especially as the team eyes the future.
Still, for many Saints fans, letting Hill go would feel like losing a part of the team’s soul. He’s been there through playoff pushes, quarterback injuries, and dramatic fourth-down conversions. His toughness and passion embodied the post-Drew Brees era in a way no one else did.
For now, both teams are staying silent, but the signs are growing louder. If Taysom Hill does end up in Denver, it wouldn’t just be a strategic move—it would be a sentimental reunion between a player and the coach who believed in him from the very start. And it could shake up both fanbases in a major way.
New Orleans Saints
Derek Carr rises like a phoenix to ignite hope for a roaring New Orleans Saints revival
Derek Carr rises like a phoenix to ignite hope for a roaring New Orleans Saints revival
Derek Carr: A New Era for the New Orleans Saints
With the onset of the NFL season, the New Orleans Saints find themselves at a critical juncture, brimming with renewed hope and aspirations. At the heart of this narrative is Derek Carr, whose arrival as the team’s quarterback has breathed new life into a franchise eager to reclaim its standing among football’s elite.
A Transformative Transition
Carr’s move to New Orleans signifies more than just a new chapter in his personal journey; it represents a pivotal moment for the Saints as they strive to rejuvenate their offensive dynamics. After dedicating almost a decade to the Las Vegas Raiders, Carr enters this new arena equipped with extensive experience and an insatiable drive to win, qualities that the Saints believe will foster immediate success. His renowned leadership and adeptness at dissecting defenses are already creating a ripple effect in the locker room, instilling a collective sense of determination and direction among the team.
Under Carr’s stewardship, the Saints are intent on realizing their offensive capabilities—a goal that has been at the forefront of their offseason preparations. His skill set is expected to enhance the team’s performance considerably, especially in a division known for its fierce competition. Carr’s proficiency in connecting with receivers and executing quick, decisive plays will be crucial as the Saints navigate the rigors of NFL competition.
Cultivating Relationships and Trust
A vital component of Carr’s integration into the Saints is the rapport he is forging with key offensive teammates. The chemistry between a quarterback and his receivers can often spell the difference between triumph and defeat, and Carr is actively working to build that essential connection. His early interactions with emerging stars like Chris Olave and seasoned veteran Michael Thomas hint at a promising aerial attack that could redefine the Saints’ offensive strategy.
Furthermore, Carr’s leadership style transcends the gridiron, as he willingly embraces the role of mentor to younger players. His commitment to instilling a rigorous work ethic is a testament to his respect for the franchise’s illustrious history. By fostering growth within the squad, Carr exemplifies an understanding that a strong team culture is foundational for long-term success.
Navigating the Road Ahead
Yet, the journey to success is laden with obstacles. The Saints are not only managing internal dynamics but also facing considerable external pressures. With a fanbase eager for playoff victories and a roster brimming with talent, the expectations loom large. Carr’s seasoned experience in high-stakes scenarios will be indispensable as he leads the team through the season’s inevitable challenges, reminding his teammates of the importance of focus and resilience.
Moreover, the Saints’ coaching staff has the essential task of capitalizing on Carr’s strengths while addressing areas that require improvement. The collaboration between Carr and the coaching staff will be pivotal in crafting game plans that maximize his unique abilities, ensuring the team can adapt effectively against a variety of opponents.
Forging a Lasting Legacy
As the season progresses, Carr’s influence on the Saints promises to extend beyond mere statistics. His presence heralds an optimistic shift in momentum for a franchise that has endured its share of trials in recent years. The hope is that Carr will not only guide the Saints back to playoff contention but also inspire a new generation of players to embrace the gritty spirit emblematic of New Orleans football.
Ultimately, the path ahead for Carr and the Saints is one marked by ambition and determination. Each game will serve as an opportunity to etch a legacy that resonates deeply with a passionate fanbase and pays homage to the franchise’s rich history. With every snap of the ball, all eyes will be on Carr—the linchpin of the Saints’ aspirations and the embodiment of hope for a city whose heart beats for football.
New Orleans Saints
New Orleans Saints star running back Alvin Kamara has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $24.5 million.
New Orleans Saints star running back Alvin Kamara has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $24.5 million.
securing his future with the franchise through the 2026 season. This deal comes after a tense offseason marked by contract negotiations and Kamara’s absence from mandatory minicamp due to dissatisfaction with his previous contract structure, which included nearly $25 million in non-guaranteed salary for 2025. Kamara emphasized that he was not seeking a raise but rather guaranteed money and expressed his desire to retire as a Saint. Despite the earlier contract drama, Kamara has delivered a strong performance in the 2024 season, leading the NFL in touchdowns early on and proving to be a key offensive weapon for the Saints under coordinator Klint Kubiak. The extension was confirmed by Kamara’s agent and announced officially by the Saints, ending speculation about his future with the team and trade rumors. Kamara remains the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdowns and has consistently surpassed 1,000 yards from scrimmage in each of his seven seasons.
New Orleans Saints
BREAKING: Saints Set To Cut Ties With Star Pair Of WRs Who Contributed In Past Years
BREAKING: Saints Set To Cut Ties With Star Pair Of WRs Who Contributed In Past Years
NFL roster competitions are wide open at this time of year, and the New Orleans Saints’ young offense could see hefty turnover.
The Saints have a few mainstays, like running back Alvin Kamara, wide receiver Chris Olave, and tight end Juwan Johnson. But after a 2024 season in which 17 players recorded at least one catch, there are bound to be some returners that get cut loose.
Focusing specifically on the wide receiver position, Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and Brandin Cooks will be on the team barring an untimely injury. That probably leaves three spots on the 53-man roster to break camp for the regular season, and there are going to be at least five contenders for those spots.
Earlier this week, Matthew Paras of NOLA.com projected the roster. Paras predicted that two former undrafted free agents who saw significant time on the Saints’ active roster in 2024, Kevin Austin Jr. and Mason Tipton, would be the final roster cuts at the position.
Cedric Wilson, Bub Means, and Dante Pettis were projected to make the team.
“Wilson has familiarity with Moore, dating back to their days in Dallas. Means has had an impressive offseason, which could give him the edge over other young prospects like Kevin Austin and Mason Tipton,” Paras wrote. “Pettis is an obvious returner candidate, though he’s also displayed some chemistry with the quarterbacks.”
Austin, who was originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, made his NFL regular season debut with the Saints, playing in eight games and recording 11 catches for 151 yards.
Tipton, a Saints signee after the 2024 draft, played in 11 games, catching 14 passes for 99 yards. Neither player recorded their first career touchdown.
Obviously, there’s a lot of football between now and Week 1. Either Austin or Tipton could already have the inside track, or someone could win a job with an impressive performance between training camp and the preseason.
However, the NFL is a bottom-line business, and this roster competition will be one to watch as the Saints look to build the best possible offense for rookie quarterback Tyler Shough.