Our MLB offseason tracker lists every major transaction completed.   Top 20 Pitchers   Top 20 Pos...

<p><em>Our MLB offseason tracker lists every major transaction completed.</em></p><ul>
<li><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3095161" href="https://thescore.com/news/3095161">Top 20 Pitchers</a> </strong></li>
<li><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3095160" href="https://thescore.com/news/3095160">Top 20 Position Players</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3095162" href="https://thescore.com/news/3095162">Full free-agent list</a></strong></li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 20</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Angels</strong> trade C Matt Thaiss to <strong>Cubs</strong> for cash</li>
<li>
<strong>Guardians</strong> trade RP Eli Morgan to <strong>Cubs</strong> for OF Alfonsin Rosario</li>
<li>
<strong>Phillies</strong> sign IF Rodolfo Castro to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Red Sox</strong> sign IF/OF Nate Eaton to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Rockies</strong> sign C Jacob Stallings to 1-year, $2M contract</li>
<li>OF Sandro Fabian signs 3-year, $5.8M contract with NPB's Hiroshima Toyo Carp</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 19</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Padres </strong>sign 1B Trenton Brooks to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Rays</strong> trade OF Jose Siri to <strong>Mets</strong> for RP Eric Orze; trade 3B/1B Austin Shenton to <strong>Mariners</strong> for cash</li>
<li>RP Thomas Hatch signs 1-year contract with KBO's Doosan Bears</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 18</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Brewers</strong> sign SP Deivi García to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Giants</strong> sign IF Sergio Alcántra to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Mariners</strong> sign RP Jesse Hahn, RP Adonis Medina to minor-league contracts</li>
<li>
<strong>Mets </strong>sign SP/RP Justin Hagenman to 1-year contract; sign OF Rafael Ortega to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Pirates</strong> sign RP Yerry Rodríguez to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Red Sox</strong> sign C Seby Zavala to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Reds</strong> SP Nick Martinez accepts 1-year, $21.05M qualifying offer</li>
<li>
<strong>Twins </strong>sign RP Scott Blewett, 1B Yunior Severino to minor-league contracts</li>
<li>
<strong>White Sox</strong> sign OF Austin Slater to 1-year, $1.75M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> sign IF Pablo Reyes to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 17</h3><ul><li>
<strong>Tigers</strong> sign OF Jahmai Jones to minor-league contract</li></ul><h3>Nov. 16</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Cardinals </strong>sign SS/OF Jose Barrero to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>D-Backs </strong>sign C Aramis Garcia, SS Connor Kaiser to minor-league contracts</li>
<li>
<strong>Dodgers </strong>sign RP Joe Jacques to minor-league contract</li>
<li>SP Drew Anderson signs 1-year contract with KBO's SSG Landers</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 15</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Athletics</strong> sign SP/RP Jason Alexander, RP Matt Krook to minor-league contracts</li>
<li>
<strong>Mariners</strong> sign SP/RP Casey Lawrence to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Mets</strong> sign IF Donovan Walton to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Phillies</strong> sign RP Nicholas Padilla to minor-league contract</li>
<li>SP Cole Irvin signs with KBO's Doosan Bears</li>
<li>RP Mitch White signs with KBO's SSG Landers</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 14</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Angels</strong> sign IF Kevin Newman to 1-year, $2.5M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Braves</strong> sign IF Charles Leblanc, C Yohel Pozo to minor-league contracts</li>
<li>
<strong>Red Sox</strong> sign RP Justin Wilson to 1-year, $2.25M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Rockies</strong> sign RP Jack O'Loughlin to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 13</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Rangers</strong> sign RP Luis Curvelo to major-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Twins </strong>sign RP Daniel Duarte to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 12</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Angels </strong>sign C Travis d'Arnaud to 2-year, $12M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Astros</strong> sign RP Steven Okert to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Athletics </strong>sign IF Alejo Lopez to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Cardinals</strong> sign RP Michael Gomez to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 11</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Athletics </strong>trade IF Nick Allen to <strong>Braves</strong> for RP Jared Johnson</li>
<li>
<strong>Braves</strong> sign RP Enoli Paredes to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Orioles</strong> sign IF Vimael Machín to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 9</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Reds</strong> sign C Alex Jackson to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Tigers</strong> sign OF Bligh Madris to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> sign RP Brandon Leibrandt to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 8</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Guardians</strong> sign RP Parker Mushinski to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Rockies </strong>claim RP Jimmy Herget off waivers from <strong>Cubs</strong>
</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 7</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Athletics</strong> sign RP T.J. McFarland to 1-year contract</li>
<li>OF Shin-Soo Choo retires after 24 professional seasons</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 6</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Angels</strong> sign SP Kyle Hendricks to 1-year, $2.5M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Guardians</strong> sign C Austin Hedges to 1-year, $4M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Mets</strong> sign RP Rico Garcia to minor-league contract</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 4</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Athletics </strong>claim<strong> </strong>RP<strong> </strong>Anthony Maldonado off waivers from <strong>Marlins</strong>; claim RP Justin Sterner from <strong>Rays</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Blue Jays</strong> claim RP Michael Petersen off waivers from <strong>Marlins</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Braves </strong>exercise $16M option on DH Marcell Ozuna;<strong> </strong>decline options on C Travis d'Arnaud, RP Luke Jackson</li>
<li>
<strong>Brewers </strong>decline option on SP Colin Rea;<strong> </strong>SP Frankie Montas declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Cubs</strong> claim RP Rob Zastryzny off waivers from <strong>Brewers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>D-Backs</strong> claim RP Seth Martinez off waivers from <strong>Astros</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Dodgers</strong> SP Clayton Kershaw declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Mariners</strong> OF Mitch Haniger exercises option</li>
<li>
<strong>Mets</strong> decline option on RP Phil Maton; claim IF Luis De Los Santos off waivers from <strong>Blue Jays</strong>; claim RP Kevin Herget from <strong>Brewers</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Orioles</strong> exercise $2.2M option on RP Cionel Pérez, $8M option on 1B Ryan O'Hearn, $8M option on RP Seranthony Domínguez; decline option on RP Danny Coulombe; claim C René Pinto off waivers from <strong>Rays</strong>; claim RP Thaddeus Ward from <strong>Nationals</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Phillies</strong> claim RP John McMillon off waivers from <strong>Marlins</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Pirates</strong> decline option on SP Marco Gonzales; claim OF Trey Cabbage off waivers from <strong>Astros</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Rangers</strong> decline option on RP Andrew Chafin</li>
<li>
<strong>Rays </strong>sign RP Jacob Waguespack to 1-year, $1.3M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Red Sox</strong> exercise $2.1M option on OF Rob Refsnyder</li>
<li>
<strong>Tigers</strong> trade RP Devin Sweet to <strong>Phillies</strong> for cash</li>
<li>
<strong>Twins</strong> exercise $1.5M option on RP Jorge Alcala</li>
<li>
<strong>White Sox</strong> claim RP Penn Murfee off waivers from <strong>Astros</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> SP Gerrit Cole remains with team on 4-year, $144M contract he originally opted out of</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> trade OF Taylor Trammell to <strong>Astros </strong>for cash</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 3</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Nationals </strong>decline option on 1B Joey Gallo</li>
<li>
<strong>Rangers</strong> SP Nathan Eovaldi declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Royals</strong> sign SP Michael Wacha to 3-year, $51M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> decline option on RP Lou Trivino</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 2</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Brewers</strong> exercise $8M option on SP Freddy Peralta; decline option on C Gary Sánchez; trade IF Owen Miller to <strong>Rockies </strong>for cash</li>
<li>
<strong>Braves</strong> sign SP Reynaldo López to 3-year, $30M extension; sign RP Aaron Bummer to 2-year, $13M contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Cubs </strong>OF Cody Bellinger exercises $27.5M option; decline option on RP Drew Smyly</li>
<li>
<strong>D-Backs </strong>exercise $7M option on SP Merrill Kelly; decline option on RP Scott McGough; OF Joc Pederson declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Dodgers</strong> exercise $3.5M option on C Austin Barnes, $5M option on SS Miguel Rojas</li>
<li>
<strong>Giants</strong> IF Wilmer Flores exercises $3.5M option</li>
<li>
<strong>Mets</strong> SP Sean Manaea exercises opt-out</li>
<li>
<strong>Orioles </strong>decline option on DH Eloy Jiménez</li>
<li>
<strong>Padres </strong>IF Ha-Seong Kim declines option; RP Wandy Peralta exercises option</li>
<li>
<strong>Rangers </strong>RP David Robertson declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Reds</strong> RP Emilio Pagán exercises $8M option</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> SP Gerrit Cole opts out; decline option on 1B Anthony Rizzo</li>
</ul><h3>Nov. 1</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Angels </strong>claim 1B Ryan Noda off waivers from <strong>Athletics</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Brewers </strong>1B Rhys Hoskins exercises $18M option</li>
<li>
<strong>Cardinals</strong> claim SP Roddery Muñoz off waivers from <strong>Marlins</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>D-Backs </strong>exercise $15M option on 3B Eugenio Suárez</li>
<li>
<strong>Giants </strong>SP Blake Snell exercises opt-out </li>
<li>
<strong>Mariners </strong>decline option on IF Jorge Polanco</li>
<li>
<strong>Orioles</strong> sign C David Bañuelos to minor-league contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Phillies</strong> trade IF/OF Scott Kingery to <strong>Angels</strong> for cash</li>
<li>
<strong>Rays</strong> exercise $10.5M option on 2B Brandon Lowe</li>
<li>
<strong>Reds</strong> sign RP Brent Suter to 1-year, $2.25M contract, decline option on C Luke Maile; RP Jakob Junis declines option; SP Nick Martinez declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Yankees</strong> exercise $2.5M option on RP Luke Weaver</li>
</ul><h3>Oct. 31</h3><ul>
<li>
<strong>Athletics </strong>trade OF Daz Cameron to <strong>Orioles </strong>for cash</li>
<li>
<strong>Braves</strong> trade OF Jorge Soler to<strong> Angels</strong> for SP<strong> </strong>Griffin Canning</li>
<li>
<strong>Brewers</strong> decline option on SP Wade Miley</li>
<li>
<strong>Cardinals</strong> decline options on SP Lance Lynn, SP Kyle Gibson, RP Keynan Middleton</li>
<li>
<strong>D-Backs </strong>SP Jordan Montgomery exercises $22.5M option;<strong> </strong>OF Randal Grichuk declines option</li>
<li>
<strong>Dodgers</strong> RP Daniel Hudson retires after 15 MLB seasons</li>
<li>
<strong>Mets</strong> sign P Dylan Covey to 1-year contract</li>
<li>
<strong>Rangers </strong>claim RP Roansy Contreras off waivers from <strong>Angels</strong>
</li>
<li>
<strong>Red Sox </strong>SP Lucas Giolito exercises $19M option</li>
<li>
<strong>Royals</strong> OF Hunter Renfroe, RP Chris Stratton exercise options; decline option on IF Adam Frazier</li>
<li>
<strong>Twins</strong> decline options on OF Manuel Margot, IF Kyle Farmer; 1B Alex Kirilloff retires after 4 MLB seasons</li>
<li>
<strong>White Sox</strong> decline option on 3B Yoán Moncada</li>
</ul>

TAMPA, FL - MARCH 28: Jose Siri #22 of the Tampa Bay Rays leads off base during the game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on Thursday, March 28, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

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MLB offseason tracker

NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  This week, we're as...

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>This week, we're assessing matters after one month of regular-season play as the contenders and pretenders sort themselves out in the standings.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">1. Cleveland Cavaliers (15-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>3</p><p>No one expected the Cavaliers to win 15 straight to kick off the season, but Donovan Mitchell and Co. are rolling under new head coach Kenny Atkinson. A strong start at both ends of the court bodes well for playoff success.</p><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">2. Oklahoma City Thunder (11-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>1</p><p>OKC continues to stay hot. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is surging and Jalen Williams is shining in a career year. J-Dub is currently averaging career bests in points (21.2), rebounds (6.6), assists (5.1), steals (2.2), and blocks (0.9).</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">3. Golden State Warriors (10-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>5</p><p>Head coach Steve Kerr is running a 12-man rotation that values ball movement and shooting, and it's working. The Warriors assist on 69% of their field goals, resulting in the league's fifth-best offensive rating (116.7).</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">4. Boston Celtics (12-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>2</p><p>Payton Pritchard has been a key part of the Celtics' hot start. The Oregon product is among the leading candidates for Sixth Man of the Year with career highs in points (15.3 per game) and 3-point percentage (42.3%).</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">5. Phoenix Suns (9-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>4</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756193/cropped_GettyImages-2184667807.jpg?ts=1732027389" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756193/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184667807.jpg?ts=1732027389 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756193/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184667807.jpg?ts=1732027389 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756193/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184667807.jpg?ts=1732027389 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756193/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184667807.jpg?ts=1732027389 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756193/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184667807.jpg?ts=1732027389 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jordan Johnson / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Suns are missing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, yet they have the league's second-best winning percentage in clutch games (7-2). An ability to win tight contests is why they boast a 9-6 record but have a negative point differential.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">6. Los Angeles Lakers (10-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>8</p><p>The initial returns on JJ Redick have been encouraging. The first-year head coach has injected some creativity into the Lakers' offense and seems to be getting the most out of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">7. Houston Rockets (10-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>14</p><p>Ime Udoka's side boasts the league's third-best defensive rating at 105.2. The Rockets' effort on that end is helping to make up for the NBA's third-worst 3-point percentage (32.4%).</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">8. Denver Nuggets (8-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>13</p><p>Nikola Jokic might as well be a one-man team. The Joker is single-handedly willing this team to victory while averaging a career high in points <strong>(</strong>29.7) and leading the NBA in rebounds (13.7) and assists (11.7).</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">9. Memphis Grizzlies (8-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>9</p><p>The rookie tandem of Jaylen Wells and Zach Edey has stepped up for the Grizzlies as they grapple with persistent injury concerns. Edey and Wells are averaging 22.6 combined points, while Edey is tied with Yves Missi<strong> </strong>for the best rebounding rate among rookies (6.9).</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">10. Orlando Magic (9-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>11</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756195/cropped_GettyImages-2184877854.jpg?ts=1732027462" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756195/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184877854.jpg?ts=1732027462 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756195/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184877854.jpg?ts=1732027462 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756195/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184877854.jpg?ts=1732027462 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756195/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184877854.jpg?ts=1732027462 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756195/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184877854.jpg?ts=1732027462 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kate Frese / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Magic have managed to stay afloat in the wake of Paolo Banchero's oblique injury, thanks largely to Franz Wagner's play. The German is averaging 26.3 points and 5.8 assists in Banchero's absence.</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">11. Sacramento Kings (8-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>12</p><p>De'Aaron Fox went scorched-earth and dropped a franchise-record 60 against the T-Wolves before Keon Ellis had a career-best 33 the very next game. Unfortunately for the injured Kings, they lost both games.</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">12. New York Knicks (8-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>7</p><p>The Knicks need better interior defense from Karl-Anthony Towns. Opponents are shooting a whopping 73.1% against Towns inside six feet, the worst mark of any 7-footer to defend at least 50 such attempts so far.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">13. Minnesota Timberwolves (8-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>10</p><p>T-Wolves fans envisioned a better start after last season's breakthrough run to the West final. Minnesota recently dropped back-to-back contests to the rebuilding Blazers, while Julius Randle is still working his way back into form.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">14. Dallas Mavericks (8-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>6</p><p>Luka Doncic's defensive effort has been called into question throughout his career. Those concerns remain after he gave up a game-winning dunk to the Jazz. However, the Mavs are still a top-six<strong> </strong>team in defensive rating.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">15. Los Angeles Clippers (8-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>20</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756196/cropped_GettyImages-2185512445.jpg?ts=1732027610" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756196/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185512445.jpg?ts=1732027610 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756196/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185512445.jpg?ts=1732027610 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756196/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185512445.jpg?ts=1732027610 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756196/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185512445.jpg?ts=1732027610 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756196/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185512445.jpg?ts=1732027610 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Clippers have been mediocre, so let's take a moment to toast James Harden's historic career. He's 14th all time in assists (7,764), 19th in scoring (26,186), and he recently passed Ray Allen for second in 3-pointers (2,977).</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">16. San Antonio Spurs (7-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>18</p><p>Victor Wembanyama is shooting 3.1 more attempts from deep compared to last season, connecting on 33.9% of those. The Spurs are allowing him to develop his shot, but he could also stand to shoot from literally anywhere else.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">17. Indiana Pacers (6-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>15</p><p>The Pacers need Tyrese Haliburton to quickly rediscover his 3-point shot. He's shooting just 32.3% on wide-open threes this season.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">18. Miami Heat (6-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>16</p><p>Tyler Herro is averaging a career-high 24.2 points on 48.6% shooting, but Jimmy Butler has regressed. He's generating his lowest point-per-game average (17.7) since joining Miami and is shooting 21.4<strong>%</strong> from three. That's not a typo.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">19. Atlanta Hawks (7-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>19</p><p>The Hawks' overall defense might not stand out, but the team has taken a step in the right direction. Atlanta has the 10th-best field-goal percentage allowed within five feet and is second in total steals.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">20. Detroit Pistons (7-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>23</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756197/cropped_GettyImages-2185307144.jpg?ts=1732027721" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756197/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185307144.jpg?ts=1732027721 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756197/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185307144.jpg?ts=1732027721 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756197/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185307144.jpg?ts=1732027721 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756197/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185307144.jpg?ts=1732027721 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756197/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185307144.jpg?ts=1732027721 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Detroit has seven wins through 16 games, a mark the Pistons didn't reach until Game 44 last campaign. Jaden Ivey has flourished as a starter, averaging a career-high 18.5 points in 32.3 minutes a night.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">21. Brooklyn Nets (6-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>21</p><p>The Nets have given some of the top teams a run for their money. That's a great sign for Jordi Fernandez as he looks to establish a culture and identity that'll carry over beyond this season. It could be worse.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">22. Chicago Bulls (6-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>22</p><p>The Bulls have lost seven of their last 10 games and continue to pay Lonzo Ball $21.3 million to sit out with lingering injuries. Luckily, Coby White continues to improve, as he's averaging a career-high 19.9 points.</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">23. Charlotte Hornets (5-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>27</p><p>LaMelo Ball is getting the ball a lot. His usage percentage (37.16%) this season ranks 12th all time, joining the efforts of Russell Westbrook (2016-17) and James Harden (2018-19). Still, the Hornets are an incredibly flawed team.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">24. Portland Trail Blazers (6-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>28</p><p>Portland has responded since Chauncey Billups blasted the team's effort in a 45-point loss to Memphis. Donovan Clingan had an eight-block display versus the T-Wolves, just one shy of the team's single-game rookie mark (Bill Walton).</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">25. Milwaukee Bucks (5-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>26</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756198/cropped_GettyImages-2184822306.jpg?ts=1732027747" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756198/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184822306.jpg?ts=1732027747 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756198/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184822306.jpg?ts=1732027747 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756198/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184822306.jpg?ts=1732027747 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756198/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184822306.jpg?ts=1732027747 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756198/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184822306.jpg?ts=1732027747 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Maybe this will help assuage the early panic felt by Bucks fans: Five of Milwaukee's nine losses have come against the Cavs, Celtics, and Knicks, plus that controversial finish against the Hornets. We're grasping at straws.</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">26. New Orleans Pelicans (4-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>17</p><p>The Pelicans can't seem to catch a break, with several key contributors on the shelf for an extended period. New Orleans will lean heavily on Brandon Ingram over the next few weeks to keep its season alive.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">27. Philadelphia 76ers (2-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>25</p><p>Paul George has struggled since returning, averaging under 20 points (16.7) for the first time since his sophomore season. Additionally, Joel Embiid has played three games and is shooting a career-worst 32.4% from the field.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">28. Utah Jazz (3-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>30</p><p>The Jazz are last in the Western Conference with a 3-11 record while sitting 26th in offensive rating (108.2) and 29th in defensive rating (118.9). Keyonte George is shooting an abysmal 36.6% from the field. Yikes.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">29. Toronto Raptors (3-12)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>24</p><p>The Raptors have been a tough watch, recording a league-worst 1-6 mark in clutch games. Injuries to Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley haven't helped either. Nobody said a rebuild would be easy. </p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">30. Washington Wizards (2-11)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>29</p><p>It's not all bad for the Wizards. Despite a 2-11 record so far, they've trailed by at least 20 in nine of their games and own the league's worst point differential at minus-14.8. Oh, I guess it is all bad. Sorry.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29104905/related

NBA Power Rankings: Cavs, Celtics surge as East foes flop

The 13 players who received qualifying offers from their respective teams had until Tuesday's 4 p...

<p>The 13 players who received qualifying offers from their respective teams had until Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET deadline to decide whether or not to accept the one-year, $21.05-million deal for 2025.</p><p>Players who accepted the offer returned to their team on a one-year, $21.05-million contract for 2025, while those who declined will remain free agents and be attached to draft-pick compensation. Those players can still re-sign with their 2024 team, but any club signing a player attached to a qualifying offer forfeits a 2025 draft pick to the team that lost the player. The draft pick is determined by <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBPipeline/status/1858999365043650886">several factors</a>, including the value of the contract signed, if the signing team exceeded the competitive balance tax in 2024, and if the team receives revenue sharing.</p><p>Of the 13 eligible free agents that were tendered qualifying offers, only one - Cincinnati Reds pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4479" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4479">Nick Martinez</a> - accepted.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Decision </th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Willy Adames</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>Brewers</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pete Alonso</td>
<td>1B</td>
<td>Mets</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alex Bregman</td>
<td>3B</td>
<td>Astros</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Corbin Burnes</td>
<td>SP</td>
<td>Orioles</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max Fried</td>
<td>SP</td>
<td>Braves</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Teoscar Hernández</td>
<td>OF</td>
<td>Dodgers</td>
<td> Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sean Manaea</td>
<td>SP</td>
<td>Mets</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Martinez</td>
<td>SP</td>
<td>Reds</td>
<td>Accepted</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nick Pivetta</td>
<td>SP</td>
<td>Red Sox</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Santander</td>
<td>OF</td>
<td>Orioles</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luis Severino</td>
<td>SP</td>
<td>Mets</td>
<td> Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Juan Soto</td>
<td>OF</td>
<td>Yankees</td>
<td> Declined</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christian Walker</td>
<td>1B</td>
<td>D-Backs</td>
<td>Declined</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Only 14 players have accepted qualifying offers since the system was introduced in 2012.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 02: Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros flies out against the Detroit Tigers in the fourth inning during Game Two of the Wild Card Series at Minute Maid Park on October 02, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29095168/related

Qualifying offer roundup: Who accepted, declined $21.05M deal

NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   This week, we're loo...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><em>This week, we're looking at players who need to step up down the stretch of the regular season.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">1. Detroit Lions (9-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756141/cropped_GettyImages-2170702168.jpg?ts=1731987837" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756141/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170702168.jpg?ts=1731987837 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756141/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170702168.jpg?ts=1731987837 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756141/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170702168.jpg?ts=1731987837 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756141/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170702168.jpg?ts=1731987837 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756141/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170702168.jpg?ts=1731987837 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brandon Sloter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A pass-rusher needs to emerge opposite trade-deadline acquisition Za'Darius Smith. <strong>Josh Paschal</strong>, a 2022 second-rounder, is a prime candidate.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">2. Buffalo Bills (9-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p><strong>Amari Cooper </strong>is enjoying the "Josh Allen Experience," but he still needs to prove he's a worthy WR1. After returning from a wrist injury, he'll look to build on his kinship with the Bills' offense.</p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">3. Kansas City Chiefs (9-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><p>There was a lot of hype for <strong>Xavier Worthy</strong> after the NFL draft, but his production has been iffy. He's only topped 50 yards in a game twice this season.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">4. Philadelphia Eagles (8-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p>The Eagles could stand to get more production from <strong>Nolan Smith</strong>. The 2023 first-rounder is tied for second on the team with 3.5 sacks this campaign.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">5. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756142/cropped_GettyImages-2184665587.jpg?ts=1731987922" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756142/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184665587.jpg?ts=1731987922 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756142/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184665587.jpg?ts=1731987922 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756142/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184665587.jpg?ts=1731987922 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756142/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184665587.jpg?ts=1731987922 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756142/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184665587.jpg?ts=1731987922 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Steelers have improved their offensive consistency but need <strong>Najee Harris</strong> down the stretch. The running back has been up and down this season, recording 438 rushing yards in his last five games versus 270 yards in his first five.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">6. Baltimore Ravens (7-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>Kicker <strong>Justin Tucker</strong>, known for his near-automatic scoring ability, is having a career-worst 2024. He's 72% on the season, ranking him near the bottom of the league.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">7. Minnesota Vikings (8-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p><strong>Sam Darnold</strong> needs to play closer to his performance at the beginning of the season. He has five touchdowns against five interceptions over the last three games after throwing 14 touchdowns and five interceptions in the Vikings' first seven contests.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">8. Green Bay Packers (7-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p><strong>Lukas Van Ness</strong> has to emerge as a legitimate pass-rush threat. The Iowa product has one sack on 151 pass-rushing snaps, per PFF.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">9. Houston Texans (7-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p>Pro Bowler<strong> Laremy Tunsil</strong>'s penalties are still haunting the Texans. He's been flagged 16 times this season.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">10. Washington Commanders (7-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756153/cropped_GettyImages-2182409057.jpg?ts=1731989202" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756153/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182409057.jpg?ts=1731989202 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756153/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182409057.jpg?ts=1731989202 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756153/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182409057.jpg?ts=1731989202 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756153/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182409057.jpg?ts=1731989202 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756153/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182409057.jpg?ts=1731989202 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Commanders rank 30th in the NFL in rushing defense, and <strong>Daron Payne</strong> has just one tackle for loss after posting 13 last campaign and 18 in 2022.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">11. Arizona Cardinals (6-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>The Cardinals rank in the bottom 10 in rushing yards per game despite Kyler Murray's explosiveness and James Conner's generally consistent production. <strong>Trey Benson</strong> can add another dimension to Arizona's run game.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">12. Los Angeles Chargers (7-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p>Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston have been consistent producers for the Chargers. Fellow wide receiver <strong>Josh Palmer</strong> can't say the same, with only one touchdown to his name.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">13. Denver Broncos (6-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>The Broncos play better when <strong>Javonte Williams </strong>is at his best. Although his season numbers have been inconsistent, the team responds when he makes an impact.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">14. Los Angeles Rams (5-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p><strong>Blake Corum</strong> is the Rams' second-leading rusher, but he's tallied only 101 yards on the ground this season.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">15. Seattle Seahawks (5-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756154/cropped_GettyImages-2185449580.jpg?ts=1731989329" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756154/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185449580.jpg?ts=1731989329 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756154/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185449580.jpg?ts=1731989329 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756154/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185449580.jpg?ts=1731989329 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756154/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185449580.jpg?ts=1731989329 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756154/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185449580.jpg?ts=1731989329 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Geno Smith</strong> is tied for 19th in passing touchdowns and tied for the most interceptions thrown this season despite leading the league in passing yards per game.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">16. San Francisco 49ers (5-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>The 49ers' offense has an unlimited ceiling when <strong>Christian McCaffrey</strong> is at his best. He's gone over 100 scrimmage yards in each of his two contests since returning from injury. However, McCaffrey's averaging 3.7 yards per carry.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">17. Atlanta Falcons (6-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p><strong>Matthew Judon</strong> has just 2.5 sacks and four tackles for loss since the Falcons traded for him in August.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>Every member of the Bucs' defense needs to elevate their game, so we'll put the onus on <strong>Antoine Winfield Jr.</strong>, one of the leaders. He has no interceptions and just two pass deflections in six contests after signing a contract in the offseason that made him the highest-paid safety in NFL history.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">19. Cincinnati Bengals (4-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p><strong>Geno Stone </strong>and the Bengals' defense haven't gotten anything going. PFF ranks Stone as the 86th safety out of 89, and he only has one interception after posting seven last season.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">20. Miami Dolphins (4-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756155/cropped_GettyImages-2185413532.jpg?ts=1731989393" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756155/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185413532.jpg?ts=1731989393 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756155/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185413532.jpg?ts=1731989393 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756155/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185413532.jpg?ts=1731989393 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756155/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185413532.jpg?ts=1731989393 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756155/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185413532.jpg?ts=1731989393 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Jaylen Waddle</strong> has been practically nonexistent this campaign for the Dolphins, with minimal receptions and only one touchdown.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">21. Indianapolis Colts (5-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p><strong>Anthony Richardson </strong>had a career game against the Jets, but he still needs to improve his focus before the Colts face the No. 1-ranked Lions.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">22. New England Patriots (3-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>Drake Maye needs <strong>any of his wide receivers </strong>to step up and be a reliable target. DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, and Kendrick Bourne have three touchdowns combined this season.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">23. Chicago Bears (4-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p>The Bears aren't doing <strong>Caleb Williams</strong> many favors with their offensive system, but the No. 1 overall pick hasn't thrown a touchdown in four games.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">24. New York Jets (3-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p><strong>Aaron Rodgers</strong> has three wins in his two-year Jets career. The team is 1-5 under interim coach Jeff Ulbrich and needs prime Rodgers back to make any impact in the AFC East.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">25. Dallas Cowboys (3-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756156/cropped_GettyImages-2182047655.jpg?ts=1731989498" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756156/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182047655.jpg?ts=1731989498 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756156/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182047655.jpg?ts=1731989498 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756156/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182047655.jpg?ts=1731989498 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756156/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182047655.jpg?ts=1731989498 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756156/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182047655.jpg?ts=1731989498 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Rico Dowdle</strong> had just 28 yards on 10 carries against the Texans after Mike McCarthy named him the lead back.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">26. Carolina Panthers (3-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>It could be a long time until <strong>Bryce Young </strong>gets another opportunity to start NFL games if he doesn't step up down the stretch.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">27. New Orleans Saints (4-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>The Saints are still alive in the NFC South. <strong>Derek Carr</strong> needs to continue taking care of the football while throwing to an unheralded group of wide receivers.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">28. New York Giants (2-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p><strong>Evan Neal</strong> started his first game of the season against the Panthers in Germany. The 2022 seventh overall pick could be playing for a chance to continue his career.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">29. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-9)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>The <strong>entire Jaguars team</strong> has struggled. Jacksonville will likely fire head coach Doug Pederson soon to try to create some offensive and defensive spark.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">30. Cleveland Browns (2-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756143/cropped_GettyImages-2180185836.jpg?ts=1731988025" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756143/w220xh124_GettyImages-2180185836.jpg?ts=1731988025 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756143/w320xh180_GettyImages-2180185836.jpg?ts=1731988025 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756143/w640xh360_GettyImages-2180185836.jpg?ts=1731988025 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756143/w768xh432_GettyImages-2180185836.jpg?ts=1731988025 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756143/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2180185836.jpg?ts=1731988025 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Diamond Images / Diamond Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Browns' defense has been ugly, and <strong>Ogbo Okoronkwo</strong> hasn't been able to make a difference. He still needs to fill in the gap that Za'Darius Smith left behind.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">31. Tennessee Titans (2-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p><strong>Will Levis </strong>and the Titans have struggled offensively this season. The second-year quarterback is showing some promise, throwing one interception in the past two games after recording seven picks in his first five contests.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">32. Las Vegas Raiders (2-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p>The Raiders are last in the league for rushing yards per game with 75.2. <strong>Zamir White</strong> needs to fill the shoes left by Josh Jacobs.</p>

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NFL Power Rankings - Week 12: Players who must step up

The 2024-25 NBA campaign isn't yet a month old, but it's never too early to assess what we've see...

<p><em>The 2024-25 NBA campaign isn't yet a month old, but it's never too early to assess what we've seen so far. Here, theScore's NBA editors answer some of the biggest questions around the league.</em></p><h3>Which team has been the biggest disappointment?</h3><p><strong>Milwaukee Bucks:</strong> The Bucks have looked miserable despite having most of their rotation available, outside of Khris Middleton. The 33-year-old won't remedy all that plagues the team once he returns, but he can help alleviate one pressing concern: the Bucks' porous defense around star Damian Lillard. The Bucks allow 117.4 points per 100 possessions with the eight-time All-Star on the court but boast a much stingier 107.3 rating when he sits. That's illustrative of a lineup failing to cover for his defensive shortcomings in exchange for his indisputable value on offense. Some of that comes down to effort - which Giannis Antetokounmpo already called out this month - and some of it's coaching. Either way, it doesn't look good for Doc Rivers, who's now 21-28 with Milwaukee. - <em>Jonathan Soveta</em></p><p><strong>Philadelphia 76ers: </strong>The Sixers finally seemed primed to contend for a championship after winning the Paul George sweepstakes in free agency - building an enviable Big Three with George, former MVP Joel Embiid, and reigning Most Improved Player Tyrese Maxey. Instead, the Sixers are in the basement of the East from the jump due to predictable injury concerns dogging Embiid and George. But now Maxey is in the midst of a multi-week hamstring injury, pushing the trio's debut together back further into November. Availability is the most important factor for success in the playoffs, and Philadelphia is on track to miss out entirely if its stars can't consistently stay on the court.<strong> </strong><em>- Donald Higney</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Minnesota Timberwolves:</strong> The new-look T-Wolves' record is unacceptable based on their strength of schedule. Only the Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics, and Sacramento Kings have gotten an easier ride through the first few weeks of the season, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/stats/rpi/_/sort/SOS">ESPN's Strength of Schedule Index</a>. They got back on track against a Kings squad missing DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk, but the process doesn't look right. How is a team with Julius Randle, Rudy Gobert, and Anthony Edwards 24th in shot attempts at the rim? Even more troubling, the club is 15th in shooting percentage near the basket. Spacing is an issue that has resulted in a reliance on outside shooting. Chris Finch might not have the answers to solve this riddle. - <em>Thomas Tittley</em></p><h3>Which team has been the biggest surprise?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755633/cropped_GettyImages-2185043334.jpg?ts=1731730991" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755633/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185043334.jpg?ts=1731730991 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755633/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185043334.jpg?ts=1731730991 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755633/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185043334.jpg?ts=1731730991 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755633/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185043334.jpg?ts=1731730991 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755633/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185043334.jpg?ts=1731730991 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Golden State Warriors: </strong>The Warriors came into this season with low expectations after losing Klay Thompson, Chris Paul, and Dario Saric in free agency. The team replaced them with Buddy Hield, De'Anthony Melton, and Kyle Anderson in an effort to stay competitive. The Dubs struck gold with Hield, who's having the best shooting season of his career with averages of 46.9% from three and 49.4% from the field to resemble the perfect "Splash Buddy" for Stephen Curry. Meanwhile, Curry is still putting up great numbers at 36 years old, averaging 22.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.1 rebounds. The Warriors sit fourth in offensive rating (118.4) and hold impressive victories over the Boston Celtics and Oklahoma City Thunder. - <em>Joseph Luca Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Cleveland Cavaliers:</strong> No one expected this kind of start from Cleveland. Now 15-0, the Cavaliers are one of just two teams - the other being the Warriors - that sit in the top six of both offensive and defensive rating through the first three weeks and change. Kenny Atkinson has transformed Cleveland into a juggernaut that dissects opponents in open play. The Cavs have the lowest percentage of points scored through free throws, with only 13.4% of their offensive output coming from the line. Yet they boast a healthy 48.9-37.7 scoring split coming from twos and threes, respectively, and lead the league in points off opponents' turnovers with 22.3 per game. Whether it's sustainable is worth questioning, as no team has ever shot 50% from the field with a minimum 40% clip from deep for an entire season. - <em>Soveta</em></p><p><strong>Houston Rockets:<em> </em></strong>Based on early returns, Ime<strong><em> </em></strong>Udoka's squad looks primed to return to the playoffs for the first time since the Disney bubble. Coming out the gates with a 10-4 start, the Rockets have built an offense with multiple contributors and a defensive identity predicated on physicality and eliminating transition opportunities. Despite some shooting struggles from the backcourt of Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet, seven players are averaging double-digit scoring. On the other end of the court, the Rockets have the third-best defensive rating per 100 possessions (105.4) and are one of three teams to limit opposing squads to less than 110 points per game - joining the Thunder and Orlando Magic. Houston, we don't have a problem. - <em>Higney</em></p><h3>Who's been the best offseason acquisition?</h3><p><strong>Dyson Daniels:</strong> The Atlanta Hawks stole Daniels from the New Orleans Pelicans this offseason, giving up Dejounte Murray, who broke his hand in the first game of the campaign, while also acquiring Larry Nance Jr. and two future first-round picks. Daniels has been nothing short of spectacular, averaging a career-best 15 points - up from his previous high of just 5.8 - and 3.3 assists. Daniels has impressed on offense, but he's become a favorite to nab a spot on an All-Defensive squad. The young Australian has been a menace on the perimeter, recording a league-high 44 steals in 12 games - no other player has more than 28 steals. Unsurprisingly, Daniels also leads the NBA in deflections per contest (7.5). <em> - Tittley </em></p><p><strong>Zach Edey:</strong> The Grizzlies seem to have found their center of the future in Edey. The 7-foot-4, 305-pound Canadian has fit perfectly into the Grizzlies' system, allowing former Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. to shift to power forward. The two-time Naismith Player of the Year sits fourth in rookie scoring with 11.1 points per game and 6.9 rebounds on 65.8% true shooting. He also recorded the third-highest scoring outburst from a rookie this season when he dropped 25 points and 12 boards against the Brooklyn Nets on Nov. 4.<em> - Casciaro</em></p><p><strong>Buddy Hield:</strong> Hield has slotted in almost perfectly for a Warriors franchise that desperately needed another dependable floor-spacer next to Stephen Curry once Klay Thompson's departure was all but finalized. The Bahamian guard's red-hot long-range shooting has resembled Thompson's during the former Splash Brother's 3-point peak. Hield's 46.9% clip from three is tied for the NBA's <a href="https://www.nba.com/stats/players/traditional?CF=FG3A*GE*8&amp;dir=A&amp;sort=FG3_PCT">second-best</a> mark among all players with at least eight such attempts per game. It's also a significant reason why a much different Golden State squad is keeping pace with the Thunder at the top of the West. The Warriors' only losses this season were the two games in which Hield failed to hit multiple threes. - <em>Soveta</em></p><h3>Which player has taken the biggest leap?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/cropped_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751082/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176275514.jpg?ts=1729599298 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brock Williams-Smith / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>LaMelo Ball:<em> </em></strong>Ranking fifth in the Association in points per game, Ball has begun the season on a scorching scoring streak. The Hornets guard has recorded 30 points in eight of 13 outings, including matching a career high with 38 points against the 76ers. Ball is making a career-best 4.6 triples per game and is second in the league in total threes made (60). His total efficiency is elevated; he's posting a career-high 53.3% effective field-goal percentage. Charlotte relies on Ball's creation, giving him the 12th-highest <a href="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/usg_pct_season.html">usage rate</a> ever in a single season thus far. The 23-year-old has been known as a scorer throughout his young career but has now increased his output and efficiency in the early stages of the campaign. - <em>Higney</em></p><p><strong>Nikola Jokic:</strong> It might sound crazy to include the three-time MVP among the most improved players, but the 29-year-old has been nothing short of spectacular to start the season. Jokic dragged the Nuggets to a respectable 7-5 record despite dropping their first two games. The bronze medalist from the Paris Olympics is averaging career bests in points (29.7), assists (11.7), rebounds (13.7), steals (1.7), blocks (1.0), 3-point attempts (3.9), 3-point percentage (56.4%), and free-throw attempts (7.0).<strong> </strong>This insane output is the only reason Denver's record is above .500. To truly grasp how much the Serbian is impacting winning, let's look at Denver's on-off statistics: Not a single bench player on the Nuggets has a positive plus-minus per 100 possessions, while Jokic has the league's second-best plus-minus at plus-36.8 per 100 possessions. - <em>Tittley</em></p><p><strong>Norman Powell:</strong> Powell has spent the bulk of his time with the Clippers coming off the bench, but he's stepped into the starting five with Kawhi Leonard missing the beginning of the season. He's started all 14 games this campaign after starting only 11 contests over the last two years combined. Powell is averaging a career-high 23.3 points in 34 minutes per game.<strong> </strong>He's also adding 2.5 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 steals while shooting 48.3% from the field and 46.9% from three. Powell has already scored 30-plus points three times this season, a feat he didn't achieve once last year. Less than a month in, the Clippers wing is an early favorite for MIP.<strong> - </strong><em>Casciaro</em></p>

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Roundball Roundtable: Warriors, Cavs raise eyebrows

This is the third in-season edition of theScore's NHL Power Rankings for the 2024-25 campaign. Ch...

<p><em>This is the third in-season edition of theScore's NHL Power Rankings for the 2024-25 campaign. Check back for updated rankings every other Monday.</em></p><p><em>In this edition, we look at the best new addition for each team so far.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ANA">ANA</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CBJ">CBJ</a> | <a href="#CGY">CGY</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#COL">COL</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#EDM">EDM</a> | <a href="#FLA">FLA</a> | <a href="#LAK">LAK</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#MTL">MTL</a> | <a href="#NJD">NJD</a> | <a href="#NSH">NSH</a> | <a href="#NYI">NYI</a> | <a href="#NYR">NYR</a> | <a href="#OTT">OTT</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#STL">STL</a> | <a href="#SJS">SJS</a> | <a href="#TBL">TBL</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#VAN">VAN</a> | <a href="#VGK">VGK</a> | <a href="#WPG">WPG</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="WPG" name="WPG">1. Winnipeg Jets (15-3-0)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756002/cropped_GettyImages-2182509496.jpg?ts=1731908748" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756002/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182509496.jpg?ts=1731908748 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756002/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182509496.jpg?ts=1731908748 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756002/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182509496.jpg?ts=1731908748 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756002/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182509496.jpg?ts=1731908748 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756002/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182509496.jpg?ts=1731908748 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><p><strong>Scott Arniel. </strong>He's been with Winnipeg for a while, but elevating Arniel to head coach was a great choice. The Jets are as complete as any team in the league in the early going.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">2. Carolina Hurricanes (13-4-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p><strong>Jack Roslovic. </strong>We <em>had </em>to go with the guy who has nine goals - all at even strength - in his first 18 games with the Hurricanes. He's under contract for just $2.8 million this season.</p><h3><a id="FLA" name="FLA">3. Florida Panthers (12-5-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p><strong>Nate Schmidt. </strong>The reigning Stanley Cup champions understandably didn't shake things up much this offseason, but let's hear it for Schmidt. He joined the Panthers after the Jets bought him out, and the veteran defenseman has since posted six points in 17 games while averaging 14:24 minutes of ice time.</p><h3><a id="WSH" name="WSH">4. Washington Capitals (12-4-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p><strong>Logan Thompson. </strong>The Capitals shored up their goaltending by acquiring Thompson for cheap over the summer, and he's only lost one of eight starts. His hot start comes in a contract year and with Canada needing someone to take the reins in goal at the 4 Nations Face-Off.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">5. Dallas Stars (11-5-0)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756003/cropped_GettyImages-2183795367.jpg?ts=1731908818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756003/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183795367.jpg?ts=1731908818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756003/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183795367.jpg?ts=1731908818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756003/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183795367.jpg?ts=1731908818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756003/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183795367.jpg?ts=1731908818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756003/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183795367.jpg?ts=1731908818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p><strong>Ilya Lyubushkin. </strong>The rearguard has been a pleasant surprise for the Stars, munching up 17:28 minutes of ice time per game as a pillar of Dallas' penalty kill, which ranks fifth in the league with an 85.4% success rate. Lyubushkin also already has five points through 16 games. His career high is 15.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">6. Minnesota Wild (11-3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><p><strong>Yakov Trenin. </strong>It was slim pickings over here simply because the Wild barely have any cap space. Trenin has exactly one assist in 17 games, but he ranks second on the team with 49 hits.</p><h3><a id="VGK" name="VGK">7. Vegas Golden Knights (11-5-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p><strong>Tanner Pearson. </strong>Vegas didn't bring in many new names over the summer after a huge trade deadline, but Pearson has provided reliable depth with seven points across 17 games in a limited role. </p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">8. Toronto Maple Leafs (11-6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p><strong>Anthony Stolarz. </strong>This honor also could have gone to someone on the Leafs' revamped blue line, but Stolarz has been brilliant as their No. 1 goaltender. The veteran owns a 7-3-2 record and sparkling .927 clip while ranking second in goals saved above average (9.61) and third in goals saved above expected (10.22). </p><h3><a id="NYR" name="NYR">9. New York Rangers (11-4-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p><strong>Sam Carrick. </strong>He isn't the flashiest name, but he's been a reliable fourth-line center for the Rangers. Carrick has four points in 16 games while averaging just over 10 minutes of ice time, and he's won 57.4% of his faceoffs. He also owns an expected goals rate of 58.5%, and New York has outscored opponents 7-3 with him on the ice at five-on-five.</p><h3><a id="NJD" name="NJD">10. New Jersey Devils (12-7-2)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752724/cropped_GettyImages-2181368577.jpg?ts=1730352023" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752724/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181368577.jpg?ts=1730352023 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752724/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181368577.jpg?ts=1730352023 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752724/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181368577.jpg?ts=1730352023 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752724/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181368577.jpg?ts=1730352023 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752724/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181368577.jpg?ts=1730352023 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Vinnick / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p><strong>Stefan Noesen. </strong>He was supposed to be a depth signing, but the 31-year-old has chipped in nine goals and seven assists for the Devils so far.</p><h3><a id="LAK" name="LAK">11. Los Angeles Kings (10-6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p><strong>Warren Foegele. </strong>We went with him over Darcy Kuemper largely because the goalie is facing his second injury absence. The Kings faced criticism in the offseason for not doing enough to add a scoring touch to their forward group, but Foegele has been solid with 10 points in 19 games on the third line.</p><h3><a id="VAN" name="VAN">12. Vancouver Canucks (9-5-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p><strong>Kevin Lankinen. </strong>The goalie has been something of a lifesaver for the Canucks, who are still without Thatcher Demko. Lankinen is responsible for all but one of Vancouver's nine wins and owns a .902 save percentage to go along with a 2.71 goals against average.<strong> </strong>Not too shabby for a September bargain pickup.</p><h3><a id="TBL" name="TBL">13. Tampa Bay Lightning (9-6-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p><strong>Jake Guentzel. </strong>The Bolts' marquee addition has come as advertised, fitting in seamlessly on the top line while contributing 17 points in 16 games.</p><h3><a id="EDM" name="EDM">14. Edmonton Oilers (9-7-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p><strong>Jeff Skinner. </strong>We were tempted to put Matt Savoie, but he hasn't played an NHL game this season. The Oilers brought back a host of familiar faces last summer, so Skinner is one of our very few options. He has three goals and six points in 18 games.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">15. Seattle Kraken (9-9-1)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752527/cropped_GettyImages-2181195679.jpg?ts=1730257184" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752527/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181195679.jpg?ts=1730257184 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752527/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181195679.jpg?ts=1730257184 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752527/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181195679.jpg?ts=1730257184 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752527/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181195679.jpg?ts=1730257184 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752527/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181195679.jpg?ts=1730257184 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vitor Munhoz / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p><strong>Brandon Montour. </strong>Seattle's major blue-line addition is settling in quite well. The 2024 Stanley Cup champion ranks second on the Kraken with 11 points in 17 contests while averaging a team-leading 23:45 minutes of ice time.</p><h3><a id="COL" name="COL">16. Colorado Avalanche (9-9-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p><strong>Calvin de Haan. </strong>The Avalanche have used dozens of new players this season due to injuries, but De Haan, an under-the-radar signing on July 1, earns the nod thanks to an impressive 56.38% expected goals rate at five-on-five.</p><h3><a id="OTT" name="OTT">17. Ottawa Senators (8-8-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p><strong>Travis Green. </strong>The Senators have shown structural improvements at five-on-five under their new head coach, ranking fifth among all teams in shot attempts for (53.8%) and sixth in expected goals for (53.9%). There have been some hiccups - Ottawa's .896 team save percentage is 26th - but Green is helping right the ship.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">18. Boston Bruins (8-8-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p><strong>Cole Koepke. </strong>The Bruins made two major acquisitions in Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov, but we're going with the fourth-liner instead. Koepke has four goals and eight points (all at even strength, tied for the second most on the team) in 19 games while averaging only 11 minutes of ice time.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">19. Buffalo Sabres (8-9-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p><strong>Ryan McLeod. </strong>There were plenty of critics of Buffalo's decision to give up prospect Matt Savoie in the McLeod trade, but McLeod ranks third on the Sabres with six goals and has added six assists.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">20. Philadelphia Flyers (8-8-2)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753543/cropped_GettyImages-2182018419.jpg?ts=1730757838" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753543/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182018419.jpg?ts=1730757838 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753543/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182018419.jpg?ts=1730757838 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753543/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182018419.jpg?ts=1730757838 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753543/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182018419.jpg?ts=1730757838 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753543/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182018419.jpg?ts=1730757838 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Richard T Gagnon / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p><strong>Matvei Michkov. </strong>The Russian rookie came with plenty of buzz, but he's lived up to the hype. The 19-year-old is the current Calder front-runner with six goals and 15 points in 16 games.</p><h3><a id="CGY" name="CGY">21. Calgary Flames (9-6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p><strong>Kevin Bahl. </strong>Honorable mention goes to Justin Kirkland here, but Bahl has been solid on the top pair with Rasmus Andersson. The Flames have outscored teams 13-10 with the duo on the ice at five-on-five, and Bahl has chipped in offensively with six assists in 18 games. </p><h3><a id="NYI" name="NYI">22. New York Islanders (7-7-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p><strong>Maxim Tsyplakov. </strong>The Islanders lured Tsyplakov from the KHL over the summer, and he's fit well in New York's top six. He's contributed 10 points and 50 hits in 18 games.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">23. Utah Hockey Club (7-7-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p><strong>Mikhail Sergachev. </strong>Utah's blue line has been obliterated by injuries, but luckily Sergachev has remained in one piece. He's tied for third on the team with 12 points in 17 contests while leading with 25:31 minutes of average ice time.</p><h3><a id="STL" name="STL">24. St. Louis Blues (8-10-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p><strong>Philip Broberg.</strong> Yes, he's currently hurt, but the defenseman has been a breath of fresh air for St. Louis. The 23-year-old has two goals and nine points in 12 games and was averaging 20:25 minutes of ice time before suffering an apparent leg injury Nov. 2.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">25. Detroit Red Wings (7-9-1)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749665/cropped_GettyImages-2177436011.jpg?ts=1728786935" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749665/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177436011.jpg?ts=1728786935 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749665/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177436011.jpg?ts=1728786935 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749665/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177436011.jpg?ts=1728786935 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749665/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177436011.jpg?ts=1728786935 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749665/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177436011.jpg?ts=1728786935 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dave Reginek / National Hockey League / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p><strong>Cam Talbot. </strong>He's the primary reason Detroit isn't further down the standings, posting a .927 save percentage in his first 10 games.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">26. Pittsburgh Penguins (7-10-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><p><strong>Joel Blomqvist. </strong>Pittsburgh isn't making the rookie's life easy, but he's logged a .904 save percentage in eight games and is the only Penguins goalie to post a positive GSAA (1.26) and GSAx (0.92) at all strengths this season. Not bad for a guy who's just starting his career.</p><h3><a id="CBJ" name="CBJ">27. Columbus Blue Jackets (6-9-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p><strong>Sean Monahan. </strong>His impact on and off the ice in Columbus is immeasurable. Monahan is tied for the team lead with six goals and second with 13 points in 17 games, and he has undoubtedly been key in helping the Jackets and their fans through the deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.</p><h3><a id="ANA" name="ANA">28. Anaheim Ducks (6-8-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p><strong>Brian Dumoulin. </strong>The veteran defenseman has posted five assists in 16 games while averaging 19:16 minutes of ice time. He's also a team-leading plus-5 on the season, which is no small feat given Anaheim's minus-11 goal differential. At the very least, Dumoulin can fetch the Ducks a decent return in the coming months if he keeps it up.</p><h3><a id="SJS" name="SJS">29. San Jose Sharks (5-10-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p><strong>Tyler Toffoli. </strong>Macklin Celebrini is the main reason to watch the Sharks, but limited availability bumped him out of top spot on our list. Toffoli just flat-out produces everywhere he plays and ranks second on San Jose with 14 points in 19 games.</p><h3><a id="MTL" name="MTL">30. Montreal Canadiens (6-10-2)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751661/cropped_GettyImages-2179575999.jpg?ts=1729868503" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751661/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179575999.jpg?ts=1729868503 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751661/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179575999.jpg?ts=1729868503 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751661/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179575999.jpg?ts=1729868503 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751661/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179575999.jpg?ts=1729868503 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751661/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179575999.jpg?ts=1729868503 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p><strong>Lane Hutson. </strong>Technically he isn't a stranger to the Habs as he got into two games late last season, but we'll make an allowance. Patrik Laine hasn't played a regular-season game yet, OK? Hutson has racked up 11 assists in 18 outings while averaging 23 minutes of ice time as a rookie defenseman.</p><h3><a id="NSH" name="NSH">31. Nashville Predators (6-10-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p>😬. OK, we have to choose someone. None of Nashville's splashy acquisitions are playing up to expectations, but we'll pick Jonathan Marchessault because he has ... three goals and 10 points in 19 games. Sure.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">32. Chicago Blackhawks (6-11-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p><strong>Teuvo Teravainen. </strong>Yes, this is his second stint with the Blackhawks, but his first ended all the way back in 2016. Chicago's offense has slumped lately and head coach Luke Richardson is frequently changing his lines, but Teravainen showed some chemistry with Connor Bedard earlier in the campaign.</p>

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NHL Power Rankings: Each team's best newcomer

Eleven of theScore's editors voted for their picks for MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, and Man...

<p><em>Eleven of theScore's editors voted for their picks for MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, and Manager of the Year, ahead of the BBWAA's awards rollout beginning Monday. Ballots include the top five players/managers for each award, with 14 points given for a first-place vote, nine points for a second-place vote, eight points for a third-place vote, and so on.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL MVP" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XPYdm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XPYdm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="404" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Judge's transcendent season relegated Witt to runner-up despite a campaign that would have been good enough to win outright in many other years. The Yankees slugger should win his second MVP award after hitting 58 home runs and posting a higher wRC+ (218) than his 62-homer 2022 campaign.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NL MVP" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-HaYaj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/HaYaj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="412" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Ohtani did more than enough to convince any detractors who don't love the idea of giving the MVP to a full-time DH. The Dodgers star became the first member of the 50-50 club and looks like a shoo-in to join Hall of Famer Frank Robinson as the only players to win MVP in both leagues. Meanwhile, Lindor was the catalyst for the Mets' turnaround.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL Cy Young" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-R9WqP" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/R9WqP/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="553" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Skubal won the AL Triple Crown after leading in wins, ERA, and strikeouts. Ragans and Lugo spearheaded a shocking turnaround in Kansas City en route to a postseason berth. Clase authored one of the best regular seasons by a closer and set the Guardians' record for career saves.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NL Cy Young" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-6POq9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6POq9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="530" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Sale had a renaissance season after coming to Atlanta from Boston in a trade. The veteran left-hander's been knocking on the door for an elusive Cy Young for years and finally looks poised to win it. Wheeler finished runner-up in 2021 and will likely come up just shy again. Skenes deserves a mention for his brilliant debut campaign; it seems only a matter of time before he wins what could be multiple Cy Youngs in what's shaping up to be a sensational career.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL Rookie of the Year " aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-siABi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/siABi/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="511" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Cowser led all AL rookies in home runs and fWAR, and provided strong defense in the outfield for the Orioles. Gil tailed off after a hot start, but his strong overall body of work will position him nicely in an open race for the award.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NL Rookie of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pgJyp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pgJyp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="501" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>It would be easier if there were separate NL rookie awards for top pitcher and position player, considering how tight the competition between Skenes and Merrill was. Skenes posted a minuscule 1.96 ERA, 4.3 fWAR, and 11.5 K/9 in 133 spectacular innings. Merrill had the edge in fWAR (5.3), and combined excellent defense with power (24 home runs) and speed (16 stolen bases). There's isn't a wrong answer, but Skenes' sheer dominance from the moment he stepped on a major-league mound earned him the nod in our vote.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL Manager of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yStGW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yStGW/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="495" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Stephen Vogt had the impossible job of replacing Terry Francona in Cleveland and the rookie manager guided the Guardians to a 92-win season (a 16-win turnaround from 2023) and an AL Central title. A.J. Hinch helped the Tigers to their first winning season in eight years and first postseason appearance since 2014. This was the closest vote of our major awards.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NL Manager of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SG3pY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SG3pY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="579" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Pat Murphy was tasked with leading Milwaukee after Craig Counsell's surprise departure to the Cubs and the Corbin Burnes trade to Baltimore, and all the Brewers did was win 93 games and the NL Central. Mike Shildt and Carlos Mendoza were finalists in their first year with their respective clubs.</p>

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MLB Final Awards: Handing out our hardware

Indiana and Curt Cignetti agreed to an eight-year contract extension through 2032 that contains a...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/303" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/303">Indiana</a> and Curt Cignetti agreed to an eight-year contract extension through 2032 that contains an average annual compensation of $8 million, the program announced Saturday.</p><p>The deal also contains an additional annual $1 million retention bonus.</p><p>"Since arriving on campus, Coach Cignetti has been the architect of one of college football's greatest turnarounds and has shown the world that IU is also a football school," Indiana president Pamela Whitten said in a <a href="https://iuhoosiers.com/news/2024/11/16/football-cignetti-inks-eight-year-contract-thru-2032">statement</a> Saturday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In addition to improved terms, Cignetti's new contract also contains assurances around infrastructural support for the program, according to the <a href="https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2024/11/16/indiana-football-coach-curt-cignetti-agrees-new-contract-extension-raise-10-0-start-iu-hoosiers/76345126007/">Indy Star's Michael Niziolek and Zach Osterman</a>.</p><p>The extension comes after Cignetti has led the Hoosiers to a perfect 10-0 start to the season. It's the first 10-0 start in the program's history and also the football team's first 10-win campaign ever.</p><p>Indiana's hot start led to the program being ranked fifth in the latest College Football Playoff rankings.</p><p>Cignetti was hired following the 2023 season after Indiana fired Tom Allen. Cignetti previously coached at James Madison, where he posted a 19-4 record in the Dukes' first two seasons at the FBS level.</p>

EAST LANSING, MI - NOVEMBER 02: Indiana Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti during a college football game between the Michigan State Spartans and the Indiana Hoosiers on November 2, 2024, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing, MI.

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Indiana, Cignetti agree to 8-year extension after 10-0 start

Welcome to the first edition of theScore's MLB Power Rankings for the offseason. Rankings take in...

<p><em>Welcome to the first edition of theScore's MLB Power Rankings for the offseason. Rankings take into consideration where each roster stands heading into the winter. </em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATH">ATH</a> I <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHC">CHC</a> | <a href="#CWS">CWS</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#COL">COL</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAA">LAA</a> | <a href="#LAD">LAD</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NYM">NYM</a> | <a href="#NYY">NYY</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SD">SD</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#STL">STL</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEX">TEX</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a></p><h3>1. <a id="LAD" name="LAD">Los Angeles Dodgers</a>
</h3><p>The defending champs enter the offseason looking like they'll be even stronger in 2025. A lot can change before Opening Day, but Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Dustin May are expected to be healthy, while Shohei Ohtani should be ready to pitch again. The club has a number of key veterans out of contract in Walker Buehler, Jack Flaherty, Kiké Hernández, Teoscar Hernández, and Blake Treinen, so filling out those areas will likely be the focus. But you can never count out this front office from making a big splash.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>2. <a id="PHI" name="PHI">Philadelphia Phillies</a>
</h3><p>The Phillies enter the winter with a star-studded roster and almost all their core pieces returning. Yet it's fair to expect they'll be active after their shocking early postseason exit. Owner John Middleton isn't shy about spending and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3119164" href="https://thescore.com/news/3119164">said last week</a> he expects payroll to increase. While the most pressing need is in the bullpen, don't be surprised if Philadelphia makes a big move.</p><h3>3. <a id="SD" name="SD">San Diego Padres</a>
</h3><p>The Padres have an enviable amount of top-end talent but need depth to keep up with the Dodgers. Retaining Jurickson Profar or replacing his production won't be cheap, yet San Diego's shown a willingness to spend in recent years. The Joe Musgrove injury will likely necessitate signing another pitcher or two.</p><h3>4. <a id="NYY" name="NYY">New York Yankees</a>
</h3><p>The Yankees have plenty of holes to fill after their first trip to the World Series in 15 years. The future of Juan Soto is the biggest storyline in New York, but key bullpen pieces like Clay Holmes and Tommy Kahnle also need new contracts. The team also must address second base and first base with Gleyber Torres and Anthony Rizzo departing.</p><h3>5. <a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Braves</a>
</h3><p>Atlanta will get a boost next season with Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. returning from injury, but it wouldn't be shocking to see Alex Anthopoulos be aggressive after the Braves finished second in the division and were swept in the wild-card round. The club must add a pair of frontline starters with Max Fried's potential departure and durability concerns with Strider and Chris Sale.</p><h3>6. <a id="NYM" name="NYM">New York Mets</a>
</h3><p>What we know: the Mets' payroll will again be gigantic, and owner Steve Cohen seems willing to stop at nothing in order to lure Soto across town. But there are other major areas of concern for the Mets this winter, too: Pete Alonso's a free agent and seeking his own megadeal. Whatever happens with Soto, they need to either re-sign Alonso or have a plan to replace his bat. Adding several starting pitchers and at least one more outfielder (not including Soto) should also be priorities.</p><h3>7. <a id="HOU" name="HOU">Houston Astros</a>
</h3><p>Houston enters its most important offseason in years after falling short of the ALCS for the first time since 2016. There won't be any clear-cut solutions if Alex Bregman signs elsewhere, meaning the Astros have to consider a reunion if they intend to compete. The organization's remained successful despite letting star after star walk, but potentially losing Bregman feels different.</p><h3>8. <a id="BAL" name="BAL">Baltimore Orioles</a>
</h3><p>Corbin Burnes was supposed to be the final piece of the puzzle for the Orioles. Instead, the ace is a free agent after Baltimore underwhelmed in the playoffs for a second straight year. The club needs to find a way to replace the four-time All-Star if his contract demands are too lofty. Anthony Santander will be another player in high demand on the market after finishing second in the AL with 44 home runs. This offseason will go a long way in determining if Baltimore can take the next step.</p><h3>9. <a id="ARI" name="ARI">Arizona Diamondbacks</a>
</h3><p>Arizona enters the winter in solid shape despite underachieving in 2024, and will likely take advantage of its starting pitching depth by moving an arm. The offense needs to be addressed as the club faces numerous departures: Christian Walker's free agency leaves a big hole at first base, while the power bats of Josh Bell, Joc Pederson, and Randal Grichuk (66 combined home runs) all must be replaced.</p><h3>10. <a id="MIL" name="MIL">Milwaukee Brewers</a>
</h3><p>The Brewers have never been big spenders in free agency, so it feels safe to assume shortstop Willy Adames will get his megadeal elsewhere, and replacing his 32 homers at a premier position won't be easy. Trading closer Devin Williams is likely also on the table for executive of the year Matt Arnold, who always tries to maximize each player's value to keep Milwaukee competitive on a modest payroll.</p><h3>11. <a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Mariners</a>
</h3><p>The Mariners desperately need hitters to support their elite pitching staff. They're liable to keep falling short in the competitive AL postseason race until they complement Julio Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh, and Randy Arozarena with reliable bats that can put the ball in play. Anything less than at least one middle-of-the-order bat will be a huge whiff for Jerry Dipoto.</p><h3>12. <a id="DET" name="DET">Detroit Tigers</a>
</h3><p>The Tigers' surprising core will return in 2025 - does that mean now's the time to make a big move? Detroit's shocking playoff berth undoubtedly caught the attention of many free agents, and the AL Central's very much for the taking. If the Tigers can add some impact pieces to this young core - another frontline starter behind likely AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, or at least another bat to fortify a sneaky-good lineup - they could be a team to beat in 2025 and beyond.</p><h3>13. <a id="CLE" name="CLE">Cleveland Guardians</a>
</h3><p>The Guardians already brought back veteran catcher Austin Hedges, who's a solid backstop behind Bo Naylor. Cleveland needs to add several arms to upgrade its rotation with Shane Bieber, Matthew Boyd, and Alex Cobb hitting free agency. Cleveland starters posted the fourth-worst fWAR in baseball in 2024.</p><h3>14. <a id="BOS" name="BOS">Boston Red Sox</a>
</h3><p>Boston's "full throttle" approach stalled out last winter, but it looks like the Red Sox are finally ready to spend with the big clubs again. Boston needs a top-tier starting pitcher, several late-inning relievers, and a middle-of-the-order power bat. The organization's loaded with talent in the minors and has a strong young core to build around - now's the time to splurge in free agency.</p><h3>15. <a id="TEX" name="TEX">Texas Rangers</a>
</h3><p>Almost everyone underperformed after winning the World Series, including mainstays Adolis García, Marcus Semien, and Jonah Heim. If the front office believes a bounce back is in the cards, it'll need to add pitching, pitching, and more pitching. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like the club is going to spend big this winter. Luckily for the front office, the 2023 title likely buys some time to figure things out.</p><h3>16. <a id="TB" name="TB">Tampa Bay Rays</a>
</h3><p>The Rays don't have a free agent after exercising Brandon Lowe's option. Tampa Bay could bounce back in 2025 with a healthy Shane McClanahan, Jeffrey Springs, and Shane Baz anchoring the rotation. The club's front office should look for power bats after finishing 28th in the majors with 147 homers. The uncertainty surrounding where the team will play next season may create issues attracting free agents.</p><h3>17. <a id="KC" name="KC">Kansas City Royals</a>
</h3><p>The Royals had an excellent offseason last winter, but much more is needed if they want to take the next step. Re-signing Michael Wacha fortifies a very strong rotation, and the attention now must be on the lineup. Bobby Witt Jr. is a legitimate superstar but needs more help than Salvador Perez. Signing a power bat is essential.</p><h3>18. <a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Twins</a>
</h3><p>The Twins celebrated their first playoff series win since 2002 by sitting relatively idle last winter, outside of inking Carlos Santana to a one-year deal. The result was a flawed team that missed the playoffs. Minnesota can't afford to sit out the winter again if it's serious about contending. Replacing Santana and Max Kepler is a must, and the front office should also be working to add pitchers, especially relievers. However, the pending sale of the club hangs over the team right now.</p><h3>19. <a id="CHC" name="CHC">Chicago Cubs</a>
</h3><p>The Cubs need to make an impact addition after a disappointing third-place NL Central finish. Cody Bellinger not opting out of his deal - at least for 2025 - is something the front office needs to take advantage of, especially with the club's only key departure being Kyle Hendricks. A big bat or proven starting pitcher could inject some life into this team.</p><h3>20. <a id="SF" name="SF">San Francisco Giants</a>
</h3><p>A healthy Robbie Ray could soften the blow of Blake Snell leaving in free agency. However, the Giants should still add another quality arm to the rotation if they hope to compete in the NL West. San Francisco will also be in the market for a corner outfielder with Michael Conforto and Mark Canha seeking new contracts.</p><h3>21. <a id="TOR" name="TOR">Toronto Blue Jays</a>
</h3><p>The Blue Jays are adamant they're still in their competitive window and plan to be aggressive this winter. It's going to be a difficult needle to thread as both Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette enter their final year under team control. The starting pitching is solid, but the offense and bullpen need significant work. Toronto's reportedly in on Soto, and how the club pulls that off while also extending either of its stars and fixing the bullpen remains to be seen.</p><h3>22. <a id="STL" name="STL">St. Louis Cardinals</a>
</h3><p>John Mozeliak is embarking on his final offseason in charge and that could result in a huge change of direction for the franchise. Paul Goldschmidt is poised to move on, as are starters Lance Lynn and Kyle Gibson. It's not out of the question that one or more of Nolan Arenado, Sonny Gray, and Miles Mikolas are dealt, although Arenado and Gray both have no-trade clauses. After years of making offseason splashes to try and prop open this window, the Cardinals are ready to give the kids a shot.</p><h3>23. <a id="CIN" name="CIN">Cincinnati Reds</a>
</h3><p>Cincinnati fell massively short of 2024 expectations after many pegged them a dark horse. The Reds need to bolster their emerging core - highlighted by dynamic Elly De La Cruz - with veteran talent on both sides of the ball to take the next step. Whether the front office is willing to pay for that talent is the real question.</p><h3>24. <a id="PIT" name="PIT">Pittsburgh Pirates</a>
</h3><p>The Pirates need to find some power bats this winter if they truly want to make some noise in the NL Central. Bryan Reynolds's 24 homers led an offense that recorded baseball's sixth-fewest round-trippers while posting the fourth-lowest slugging percentage. The bullpen will need another high-leverage reliever or two with Aroldis Chapman testing the market.</p><h3>25. <a id="WSH" name="WSH">Washington Nationals</a>
</h3><p>Washington's put together an excellent stable of young talent. While this group may seem ready to take the next step, it won't be easy in the NL East. Still, the Nats have surprised with their past spending habits, and they have payroll room now that Patrick Corbin's contract is finally off the books. Don't be shocked if Washington tries to augment its core by shopping in free agency's upper tiers.</p><h3>26. <a id="ATH" name="ATH">Athletics</a>
</h3><p>The Athletics officially left Oakland and enter another period of uncertainty. When the organization lands in Vegas is unknown, and the club will play in a minor-league stadium in West Sacramento until then. The A's have started to show they have a solid young core, but how much will ownership commit to spending with an uncertain amount of revenue coming in? And how does the club attract free agents in its current situation?</p><h3>27. <a id="LAA" name="LAA">Los Angeles Angels</a>
</h3><p>The Angels have been surprisingly aggressive during the offseason's early stages. Los Angeles traded for 2023 All-Star Jorge Soler, signed catcher Travis d'Arnaud, and added right-hander Kyle Hendricks. Unfortunately, a lot more heavy lifting is needed to turn around a 99-loss team.</p><h3>28. <a id="COL" name="COL">Colorado Rockies</a>
</h3><p>The Rockies remain a noncompetitive mess. The team's priority should be developing its young players by ensuring they have clear paths to playing time. However, signing a few players to one-year deals could give Colorado a few chips to trade away during the season. Getting out of Kris Bryant's contract would be a win in and of itself.</p><h3>29. <a id="MIA" name="MIA">Miami Marlins</a>
</h3><p>Peter Bendix continues to put his stamp on the organization, hiring manager Clayton McCullough earlier in the week. Bendix spent a lot of last season moving players out and will likely continue that process this winter. Starters Sandy Alcantara and Jesús Luzardo could be dangled as major trade pieces to help build a future foundation.</p><h3>30. <a id="CWS" name="CWS">Chicago White Sox</a>
</h3><p>The big question on the South Side is when GM Chris Getz trades Garrett Crochet. Luis Robert Jr. is also a candidate to be moved. The White Sox have countless holes coming off their historic 121-loss season, and they're not going to fix this overnight, no matter how many prospects they acquire. Getting the Crochet trade right is their most important task.</p>

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MLB Power Rankings: Where each team stands heading into the offseason

The races for the league's most prestigious individual awards are starting to heat up with the 20...

<p>The races for the league's most prestigious individual awards are starting to heat up with the 2024 NFL season past its halfway mark, including the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year honors.</p><p>Here's a look at the five best candidates for the main awards.</p><h3>Coach of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Jim Harbaugh, Chargers</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Chargers aren't yet AFC powerhouses like the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bills, but Harbaugh is building a very competitive team. At 6-3, Los Angeles comfortably owns the conference's No. 6 seed. It felt like the Chargers were years away from contending when they hired Harbaugh in the offseason, but the veteran coach and his staff have done a solid job at installing a new system around quarterback Justin Herbert while getting the most out of their defensive unit.</p><p><strong>4. Kevin O'Connell, Vikings</strong></p><p>Nobody <em>actually </em>thought before the season that the Vikings would be 7-2 with a top-10 scoring offense and defense after 10 weeks. But here they are. O'Connell's offensive scheme has put veterans like quarterback Sam Darnold and running back Aaron Jones in a position to succeed. That, combined with Brian Flores' impressive defensive unit, explains why the Vikings have one of the NFC's best records after a 7-10 season in 2023.</p><p><strong>3. Dan Campbell, Lions</strong></p><p>The Lions may be football's best team, and Campbell deserves a lot of credit for that. One of the league's most aggressive head coaches, Campbell has helped turn Detroit into a juggernaut, as the club is 8-1 after winning 12 games last year. The 2024 Lions don't have many weaknesses and have been must-watch TV due to their aggressiveness and creativeness under Campbell and his staff.</p><p><strong>2. Dan Quinn, Commanders</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753759/cropped_GettyImages-2182747603.jpg?ts=1730841017" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753759/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182747603.jpg?ts=1730841017 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753759/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182747603.jpg?ts=1730841017 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753759/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182747603.jpg?ts=1730841017 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753759/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182747603.jpg?ts=1730841017 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753759/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182747603.jpg?ts=1730841017 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Overachieving is the key word when it comes to the Coach of the Year race, and Quinn has done it at a great level in 2024. The Commanders boast a top-five offense under Quinn, while their defense ranks 12th in points and 14th in yards allowed, up from 32nd in 2023. Coming off a four-win campaign, Washington is<strong> </strong>7-3 and a surprise NFC contender with rookie Jayden Daniels at QB.</p><p><strong>1. Mike Tomlin, Steelers</strong></p><p>Tomlin is only two victories away from securing another winning campaign and extending the record for the most consecutive non-losing seasons to begin a coaching career (17). Only this time, he may have his most dangerous team in the post-Ben Roethlisberger era. Tomlin's defense remains extremely solid and the offense improved with Russell Wilson, who became the starter in Week 7 over Justin Fields in a widely criticized decision. But Tomlin was right about his QBs, and his outfit is now 7-2 after recently beating Quinn's Commanders.</p><h3>Defensive Rookie of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Braden Fiske, Rams</strong></p><p>It's impossible to replace Aaron Donald, but Fiske has stood out as a member of L.A.'s defensive line. The second-round pick ranks in the top three for total pressures among rookies and posted the best game of his young NFL career in Week 9, dominating the Seahawks with two sacks and two tackles for loss to help the Rams claim a crucial win.</p><p><strong>4. Edgerrin Cooper, Packers</strong></p><p>Cooper has earned more snaps as the season's progressed. It's only a matter of time until he becomes Green Bay's most reliable off-ball linebacker. The 22-year-old has amassed 44 tackles (five for loss), 2.5 sacks, and two pass breakups. He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week after finishing Week 9 - his first NFL start - with nine tackles, one sack, one QB hit, and one forced fumble.</p><p><strong>3. Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/cropped_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Mitchell's freshman campaign lacks flashy plays, and he's yet to register an interception. That said, the Toledo product has been a reliable member of the Eagles' secondary thanks to his standout coverage skills. He's recorded 30 tackles and eight pass breakups while allowing an 80.3 passer rating on 40 targets.</p><p><strong>2. Laiatu Latu, Colts</strong></p><p>Latu is a work in progress against the run, but the No. 15 pick - who was the first defender taken in 2024 - is one of Indy's most disruptive pass-rushers. He ranks third among rookies in total pressures, according to TruMedia. Latu has also posted two sacks, one pass breakup, and two forced fumbles, including a crucial one in the fourth quarter in a win against the Bears in Week 3.</p><p><strong>1. Jared Verse, Rams</strong></p><p>Verse has been the NFL's best rookie defender, and it's not close. The 19th overall pick is already a cornerstone of a rebuilding Rams defense, as he leads all first-year players in pressures and sacks. The promising edge rusher has racked up 37 tackles (11 for loss), 14 QB hits, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles in nine games.</p><h3>Offensive Rookie of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Bo Nix, Broncos</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753387/cropped_GettyImages-2182086227.jpg?ts=1730681033" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753387/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182086227.jpg?ts=1730681033 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753387/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182086227.jpg?ts=1730681033 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753387/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182086227.jpg?ts=1730681033 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753387/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182086227.jpg?ts=1730681033 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753387/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182086227.jpg?ts=1730681033 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">AAron Ontiveroz / Denver Post / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Broncos fans should be happy with what they've seen from Nix. Yes, he'll have roller-coaster performances. However, the first-round QB has shown improvement after a shaky first month in the NFL. Nix accounted for six touchdowns (five passing) against just one interception in his last three games. He also posted a passer rating of at least 115 on two occasions in that span.</p><p><strong>4. Malik Nabers, Giants</strong></p><p>Nabers is the best player in a Giants offense that clearly limits his potential. The No. 6 pick tops all rookie WRs with 61 catches and 607 receiving yards (tied with Brian Thomas Jr.) despite missing two games with a concussion. The former LSU star was a stronger OROY contender early on after posting two 100-yard outings in his first four games, but he hasn't topped that mark since September.</p><p><strong>3. Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars</strong></p><p>Don't let Jacksonville's disappointing season fool you: Thomas has been the sport's most consistent rookie wideout after 10 weeks. The first-rounder leads all first-year players with 607 receiving yards while ranking second with five TD catches (behind Marvin Harrison Jr.). Thomas also ranks ninth in the league in yards per reception (16.4) and second in yards per target, via TruMedia.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754957/cropped_Yd_target.jpg?ts=1731424755" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754957/w220xh124_Yd_target.jpg?ts=1731424755 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754957/w320xh180_Yd_target.jpg?ts=1731424755 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754957/w640xh360_Yd_target.jpg?ts=1731424755 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754957/w768xh432_Yd_target.jpg?ts=1731424755 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754957/w1080xh607_Yd_target.jpg?ts=1731424755 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Most yards per target this season (min. 50 targets) <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"> </span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>2. Brock Bowers, Raiders</strong></p><p>Bowers is another standout rookie who's managed to succeed despite playing in a subpar offensive unit. In addition to being a solid run-blocker, the former Georgia stud places second among first-year pass-catchers and seventh overall with 57 receptions. Bowers' 580 receiving yards lead all tight ends this year.</p><p><strong>1. Jayden Daniels, Commanders</strong></p><p>Daniels is running away with this award. For the second straight year, a quarterback taken second overall enters the second half of the season as the heavy favorite to claim Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Daniels, like C.J. Stroud last year, has enjoyed a magical start to his career and established himself as one of the league's premier young QBs while making history along the way (more on that in the MVP section).</p><h3>Defensive Player of the Year</h3><p><strong>5. Will Anderson, Texans</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752865/cropped_GettyImages-2181940222.jpg?ts=1730421991" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752865/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181940222.jpg?ts=1730421991 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752865/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181940222.jpg?ts=1730421991 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752865/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181940222.jpg?ts=1730421991 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752865/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181940222.jpg?ts=1730421991 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752865/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181940222.jpg?ts=1730421991 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Anderson has basically missed Houston's last two games after injuring his ankle early in Week 9. But the second-year edge rusher was nearly unstoppable before that, racking up 11 tackles for loss, 10 QB hits, and 7.5 sacks. Anderson had at least one sack in five of his first eight games, including a three-sack in Week 6. He was also the AFC Defensive Player of the Month in October.</p><p><strong>4. Xavier McKinney, Packers</strong></p><p>McKinney's first season with Green Bay has been a major success. The explosive defensive back has recorded one interception in six different games and played every defensive snap while totaling 42 tackles, seven pass breakups, and one sack. Thanks to McKinney, the Packers already have more takeaways this year (19) than they did in all of 2023 (18).</p><p><strong>3. Dexter Lawrence, Giants</strong></p><p>Most nose tackles would be happy with nine sacks in a five-season span. Lawrence has nine in 10 games this year. He's arguably the sport's most disruptive interior lineman and is on track to earn a first-team All-Pro berth for the first time after consecutive second-team selections in 2022 and '23.</p><p><strong>2. Trey Hendrickson, Bengals</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754959/cropped_GettyImages-2183900589.jpg?ts=1731426640" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754959/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183900589.jpg?ts=1731426640 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754959/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183900589.jpg?ts=1731426640 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754959/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183900589.jpg?ts=1731426640 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754959/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183900589.jpg?ts=1731426640 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754959/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183900589.jpg?ts=1731426640 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Cincinnati's defense has mostly struggled in 2024, but things would've been worse if not for Hendrickson. The 29-year-old leads the NFL in sacks (11), tackles for loss (12), and pressures (52), according to PFF. The three-time Pro Bowler - who set a career high with 17.5 sacks last season - could flirt with 20 sacks this year if he keeps up with his pace.</p><p><strong>1. T.J. Watt, Steelers</strong></p><p>It's impossible to imagine the Steelers boasting an excellent defense without Watt. A former winner and perennial DPOY contender, Watt remains a premier edge rusher who's elite against the run and can impact the game in more ways than any other NFL defender. His 6.5 sacks in nine games may be relatively low by his standards, but he's totaled 16 QB hits, 10 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles - the most in the league. Three of Watt's sacks, as well as two forced fumbles and one recovery, happened in the fourth quarter this year when Pittsburgh needed it the most.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754961/cropped_Sacks_FFnew.jpg?ts=1731427420" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754961/w220xh124_Sacks_FFnew.jpg?ts=1731427420 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754961/w320xh180_Sacks_FFnew.jpg?ts=1731427420 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754961/w640xh360_Sacks_FFnew.jpg?ts=1731427420 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754961/w768xh432_Sacks_FFnew.jpg?ts=1731427420 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754961/w1080xh607_Sacks_FFnew.jpg?ts=1731427420 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Sacks x Forced fumbles since 2019 (via TruMedia) <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"> </span></figcaption></figure><h3>MVP</h3><p><strong>5. Jared Goff, Lions</strong></p><p>Goff quarterbacked a wild Week 10 comeback that was marked by his five interceptions. The uncharacteristically bad game in what's otherwise been an excellent season hurts his MVP case, but it shouldn't end the race for him. From Weeks 3-9, he posted an 82.8% completion rate with a 140.1 passer rating, the highest marks in any six-game span in NFL history. The veteran QB will need the Lions' offense to be flawless again to move up in these rankings.</p><p><strong>4. Jayden Daniels, Commanders</strong></p><p>The Commanders haven't had a winning season since 2016 but have already won seven games in 2024 while boasting a top-five offense. Multiple factors have led to this seismic change, but Daniels is the biggest one. The new franchise QB has amazed NFL fans with spectacular moments like his Hail Mary TD pass in Week 8 and set multiple rookie records, including for single-game completion percentage (91.3%). Overall, the No. 2 pick has completed 68.7% of his passes with nine touchdown passes to two interceptions. Daniels has also added 464 yards and four TDs rushing.</p><p><strong>3. Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs</strong></p><p>Mahomes hasn't played his best football,<strong> </strong>and his 12 TDs to nine INTs show that. He's actually completing 69.9% of his passes - which would be a career single-season high - but that's also because of his low average depth of target. Still, Mahomes remains the sport's most clutch QB and is in charge of the NFL's only undefeated team. He leads the league in EPA/dropback on third- and fourth-down situations, via TruMedia.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754967/cropped_EPA_%2B_yards_attempt.jpg?ts=1731429429" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754967/w220xh124_EPA_%2B_yards_attempt.jpg?ts=1731429429 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754967/w320xh180_EPA_%2B_yards_attempt.jpg?ts=1731429429 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754967/w640xh360_EPA_%2B_yards_attempt.jpg?ts=1731429429 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754967/w768xh432_EPA_%2B_yards_attempt.jpg?ts=1731429429 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754967/w1080xh607_EPA_%2B_yards_attempt.jpg?ts=1731429429 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Yards/attempt x EPA/dropback (3rd and 4th down) <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"> </span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>2. Josh Allen, Bills</strong></p><p>Allen is the heart and soul of a Bills offense that once again ranks among the league's best units. The star signal-caller - who leads the NFL in big-time throws, according to PFF - has accounted for 21 TDs (17 passing) while throwing four INTs. If not for a couple of poor performances, including one against our MVP favorite, Allen would've had a shot at being No. 1.</p><p><strong>1. Lamar Jackson, Ravens</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754184/cropped_GettyImages-2183604084.jpg?ts=1731038476" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754184/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183604084.jpg?ts=1731038476 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754184/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183604084.jpg?ts=1731038476 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754184/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183604084.jpg?ts=1731038476 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754184/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183604084.jpg?ts=1731038476 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754184/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183604084.jpg?ts=1731038476 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>New year, same Lamar. The NFL's best dual-threat quarterback, Jackson is the sport's most efficient passer right now. He leads the league in TD passes, passer rating, yards per pass attempt, EPA/play, and rushing yards among QBs. He's second for passing yards. If the season ended today, there's no question Jackson would take home his third career NFL MVP award, the second in a row.</p>

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NFL award rankings: Race heating up for MVP, rookie honors, more

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><em>This week, we're looking at reasons for every team to be hopeful.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (9-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754894/cropped_GettyImages-2172765814.jpg?ts=1731377517" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754894/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172765814.jpg?ts=1731377517 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754894/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172765814.jpg?ts=1731377517 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754894/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172765814.jpg?ts=1731377517 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754894/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172765814.jpg?ts=1731377517 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754894/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172765814.jpg?ts=1731377517 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Isiah Pacheco is nearing a return.</strong> Kansas City is 21st in rushing yards per game, and Pacheco can help take the offense to another level.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">2. Detroit Lions (8-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p><strong>The Lions can win ugly.</strong> Detroit battled through turnovers and an inefficient rushing performance to pick up its eighth win of the season against the Texans.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">3. Baltimore Ravens (7-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p><strong>Lamar Jackson is the MVP of the league through 10 weeks.</strong> He's playing the best football of his career, and the Ravens' offense ranks first in EPA/play and success rate.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">4. Buffalo Bills (8-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p><strong>Matt Milano's 21-day practice window was opened Monday.</strong> The veteran will help stabilize the linebacker position and raise the ceiling of a defense that's played well heading into Week 11.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">5. Philadelphia Eagles (7-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/cropped_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754895/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182773147.jpg?ts=1731377583 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Philly's young corners are playing well.</strong> Rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean haven't allowed a touchdown in coverage this season.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">6. Minnesota Vikings (7-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p><strong>T.J. Hockenson is back.</strong> The tight end already has over half as many receiving yards (99) in two games as Josh Oliver (182) has in nine.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">7. Green Bay Packers (6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><p><strong>Jayden Reed's emergence.</strong> The 2023 second-rounder is averaging 17.2 yards per reception and 68.9 yards per game after averaging 12.4 and 49.6, respectively, as a rookie.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">8. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p><strong>Russell Wilson has played at a high level since taking over as the starting quarterback.</strong> Wilson ranks sixth in EPA/play among 39 signal-callers who've played at least 100 snaps this season.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">9. Washington Commanders (7-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p><strong>Marshon Lattimore's pending debut.</strong> Adding a four-time Pro Bowler to the roster will only help down the stretch.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">10. Houston Texans (6-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754460/cropped_GettyImages-2172707382.jpg?ts=1731187058" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754460/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172707382.jpg?ts=1731187058 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754460/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172707382.jpg?ts=1731187058 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754460/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172707382.jpg?ts=1731187058 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754460/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172707382.jpg?ts=1731187058 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754460/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172707382.jpg?ts=1731187058 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Nico Collins is set to return from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for five games.</strong> He was leading the league in receiving yards before suffering the ailment.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">11. Arizona Cardinals (6-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p><strong>Winning is becoming a habit.</strong> Only the Chiefs (nine), Lions (seven), Bills (five), and Eagles (five) have longer active winning streaks than the Cardinals (four).</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">12. San Francisco 49ers (5-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p><strong>Christian McCaffrey tallied over 100 scrimmage yards in his return from injury.</strong> The reigning Offensive Player of the Year averaged 5.6 yards per touch in his season debut.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">13. Atlanta Falcons (6-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p><strong>Kirk Cousins can lead late wins.</strong> The free-agent acquisition's three fourth-quarter comebacks pace the league.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">14. Los Angeles Chargers (6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p><strong>Jim Harbaugh has the Chargers in a playoff spot in his first year as head coach.</strong> Los Angeles is finding success before the new head boss can make significant roster changes.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">15. Los Angeles Rams (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754928/cropped_GettyImages-2179760100.jpg?ts=1731384592" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754928/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179760100.jpg?ts=1731384592 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754928/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179760100.jpg?ts=1731384592 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754928/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179760100.jpg?ts=1731384592 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754928/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179760100.jpg?ts=1731384592 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754928/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179760100.jpg?ts=1731384592 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ric Tapia / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Jared Verse is the Defensive Rookie of the Year favorite.</strong> The first-round edge rusher has 4.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery to lead the chase for the top defensive rookie.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">16. Denver Broncos (5-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p><strong>Denver is competing earlier than expected.</strong> Sean Payton has this team playing competitive football in Bo Nix's first year as a starter.</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p><strong>Mike Evans hopes to return after the team's Week 11 bye.</strong> Baker Mayfield will appreciate having Evans back on the field as the Bucs get ready for a soft remaining schedule.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">18. Seattle Seahawks (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><p><strong>The NFC West crown is still within reach.</strong> Seattle is only a few games back of the division-leading Arizona Cardinals despite sitting last in the division. </p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">19. Cincinnati Bengals (4-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p><strong>Joe Burrow is playing at an All-Pro level.</strong> He leads the league in completions, passing yards, and touchdowns heading into Week 11.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">20. Miami Dolphins (3-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753302/cropped_GettyImages-2182699754.jpg?ts=1730660327" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753302/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182699754.jpg?ts=1730660327 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753302/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182699754.jpg?ts=1730660327 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753302/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182699754.jpg?ts=1730660327 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753302/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182699754.jpg?ts=1730660327 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753302/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182699754.jpg?ts=1730660327 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryan M. Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Miami has the third-easiest schedule remaining in the NFL based on opponent win percentage.</strong> The Dolphins are only two games back of the Broncos, who currently own the seventh seed in the AFC.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">21. New York Jets (3-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p><strong>Garrett Wilson is fourth in receiving yards.</strong> If the Rodgers-Adams era doesn't work out, the Jets have a stud receiver for the next quarterback to work with.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">22. New England Patriots (3-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p><strong>New England's offense has looked much better with Drake Maye over the last few weeks.</strong> The 2024 third overall pick looks like he'll be the signal-caller of the future.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">23. Chicago Bears (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><p><strong>Offensive changes appear imminent.</strong> Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron is likely to be fired after head coach Matt Eberflus vowed to make changes.</p><p><em>Editor's note: Waldron <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3126428" href="https://thescore.com/news/3126428">was fired</a> Tuesday morning after this article was published. </em></p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">24. Indianapolis Colts (4-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p><strong>Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and Adonai Mitchell look to be a solid wide receiver trio for the future.</strong> Whoever is the starting quarterback for the Colts next season will have weapons at his disposal.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">25. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754898/cropped_GettyImages-2182382385.jpg?ts=1731377855" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754898/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182382385.jpg?ts=1731377855 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754898/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182382385.jpg?ts=1731377855 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754898/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182382385.jpg?ts=1731377855 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754898/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182382385.jpg?ts=1731377855 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754898/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182382385.jpg?ts=1731377855 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Jacksonville will likely fire Doug Pederson after another disappointing season.</strong> With the quarterback and other talented offensive players already in place, Jaguars fans can hope a new head coach will turn their fortunes around.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">26. Dallas Cowboys (3-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p><strong>Jerry Jones could finally make changes.</strong> The Cowboys owner did nothing to improve the team last offseason after claiming to be "all-in" on 2024. A season like this should force his hand.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">27. Carolina Panthers (3-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p><strong>Bryce Young has won some games.</strong> The Panthers have recorded back-to-back victories for the first time since the beginning of the 2021 campaign with Young under center.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">28. New Orleans Saints (3-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><p><strong>The Marshon Lattimore trade.</strong> It'll be a long and painful process, but the Saints appear to have accepted that it's time to start recovering from continually trying (and failing) to extend a competitive window.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">29. New York Giants (2-8)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p><strong>The Daniel Jones era is likely nearing its conclusion.</strong> Giants fans can look forward to starting over at the game's most important position, potentially as soon as New York's next game.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">30. Cleveland Browns (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750772/cropped_GettyImages-2179797497.jpg?ts=1729448361" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750772/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179797497.jpg?ts=1729448361 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750772/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179797497.jpg?ts=1729448361 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750772/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179797497.jpg?ts=1729448361 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750772/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179797497.jpg?ts=1729448361 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750772/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179797497.jpg?ts=1729448361 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nick Cammett / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>The Deshaun Watson era is likely over.</strong> That albatross of a contract remains, but the Browns will likely look to go in a different direction at quarterback next season with an early first-round pick.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">31. Tennessee Titans (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p><strong>Tennessee would have the third overall pick in the 2025 draft if the season ended today.</strong> The organization can select a new quarterback after the Will Levis experiment, which is trending toward being a failure.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">32. Las Vegas Raiders (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p><strong>Las Vegas is in prime position to select one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft.</strong> A new offensive coordinator with a young, talented signal-caller could help propel this organization to relevancy.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29005085/related

NFL Power Rankings - Week 11: Every team's reason for hope

Here are the top free agents this offseason broken down by position. Teams will be added once pla...

<p><em>Here are the top free agents this offseason broken down by position. Teams will be added once places sign. </em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739026/cropped_GettyImages-2163651927.jpg?ts=1722382895" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739026/w220xh124_GettyImages-2163651927.jpg?ts=1722382895 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739026/w320xh180_GettyImages-2163651927.jpg?ts=1722382895 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739026/w640xh360_GettyImages-2163651927.jpg?ts=1722382895 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739026/w768xh432_GettyImages-2163651927.jpg?ts=1722382895 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739026/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2163651927.jpg?ts=1722382895 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Catchers" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iWSRk" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iWSRk/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="977" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/554242/cropped_GettyImages-1243834243.jpg?ts=1702162727" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/554242/w220xh124_GettyImages-1243834243.jpg?ts=1702162727 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/554242/w320xh180_GettyImages-1243834243.jpg?ts=1702162727 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/554242/w640xh360_GettyImages-1243834243.jpg?ts=1702162727 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/554242/w768xh432_GettyImages-1243834243.jpg?ts=1702162727 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/554242/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1243834243.jpg?ts=1702162727 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rob Tringali / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="First basemen" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0nNjq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0nNjq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="802" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/546219/cropped_GettyImages-1435691020.jpg?ts=1669852100" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/546219/w220xh124_GettyImages-1435691020.jpg?ts=1669852100 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/546219/w320xh180_GettyImages-1435691020.jpg?ts=1669852100 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/546219/w640xh360_GettyImages-1435691020.jpg?ts=1669852100 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/546219/w768xh432_GettyImages-1435691020.jpg?ts=1669852100 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/546219/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1435691020.jpg?ts=1669852100 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Second basemen" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-NwKfU" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/NwKfU/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="582" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/604766/cropped_GettyImages-1741633993.jpg?ts=1701733990" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/604766/w220xh124_GettyImages-1741633993.jpg?ts=1701733990 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/604766/w320xh180_GettyImages-1741633993.jpg?ts=1701733990 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/604766/w640xh360_GettyImages-1741633993.jpg?ts=1701733990 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/604766/w768xh432_GettyImages-1741633993.jpg?ts=1701733990 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/604766/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1741633993.jpg?ts=1701733990 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Daniel Shirey / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Third basemen" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-OlQxH" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OlQxH/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="494" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
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</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750708/cropped_GettyImages-2179680750.jpg?ts=1729711616" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750708/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179680750.jpg?ts=1729711616 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750708/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179680750.jpg?ts=1729711616 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750708/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179680750.jpg?ts=1729711616 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750708/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179680750.jpg?ts=1729711616 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750708/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179680750.jpg?ts=1729711616 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Maddie Meyer / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Outfielders" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-lIdDJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lIdDJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1214" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739782/cropped_GettyImages-2164850969.jpg?ts=1722805550" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739782/w220xh124_GettyImages-2164850969.jpg?ts=1722805550 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739782/w320xh180_GettyImages-2164850969.jpg?ts=1722805550 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739782/w640xh360_GettyImages-2164850969.jpg?ts=1722805550 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739782/w768xh432_GettyImages-2164850969.jpg?ts=1722805550 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739782/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2164850969.jpg?ts=1722805550 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Berl / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Designated hitter" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Gn6Hm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Gn6Hm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="241" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
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BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - MARCH 28: Corbin Burnes #39 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches in the third inning against the Los Angeles Angels on Opening Day at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on March 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Top MLB free agents at each position

NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  With two weeks of r...

<p><em>NBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p><em>With two weeks of regular-season hoops in the rearview, we're jumping to conclusions with one overreaction for every team. Get ready for some hot takes.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BKN">BKN</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHA">CHA</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GSW">GSW</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAL">LAL</a> | <a href="#MEM">MEM</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NOP">NOP</a> | <a href="#NYK">NYK</a> | <a href="#OKC">OKC</a> | <a href="#ORL">ORL</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#POR">POR</a> | <a href="#SAC">SAC</a> | <a href="#SAS">SAS</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#UTA">UTA</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3><a id="OKC" name="OKC">1. Oklahoma City Thunder (7-0)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753705/cropped_GettyImages-2182347478.jpg?ts=1730823003" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753705/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182347478.jpg?ts=1730823003 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753705/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182347478.jpg?ts=1730823003 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753705/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182347478.jpg?ts=1730823003 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753705/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182347478.jpg?ts=1730823003 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753705/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182347478.jpg?ts=1730823003 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Zach Beeker / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: </em>2</p><p><strong>Send Isaiah Hartenstein back to NYC:</strong> OKC is rolling without the free-agent addition, dominating teams with depth and youth. Maybe the Thunder didn't need to sign him; they're 12th in rebounds per game.</p><h3><a id="BOS" name="BOS">2. Boston Celtics (7-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>1</p><p><strong>Boston is going to repeat:</strong> The Celtics have looked nearly unstoppable with their scorching 3-point shooting, deep bench, and Jayson Tatum playing the best basketball of his career. Call this one a tepid take.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">3. Cleveland Cavaliers (8-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>12</p><p><strong>Donovan Mitchell is a legit MVP candidate: </strong>Spida has guided the Cavaliers to the best record in the East, and he's shooting the lights out with career-best returns from the field (48%) and beyond the arc (40%).</p><h3><a id="PHX" name="PHX">4. Phoenix Suns (6-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>7</p><p><strong>Give KD 40 shots a night:</strong> Phoenix can't go wrong by trusting Kevin Durant. He didn't just save the Suns in the fourth versus the 76ers on Monday, he shot a ludicrous 14-of-20 (70%) all game. He deserves double the attempts.</p><h3><a id="GSW" name="GSW">5. Golden State Warriors (6-1)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753706/cropped_GettyImages-2182977391.jpg?ts=1730823054" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753706/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182977391.jpg?ts=1730823054 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753706/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182977391.jpg?ts=1730823054 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753706/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182977391.jpg?ts=1730823054 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753706/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182977391.jpg?ts=1730823054 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753706/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182977391.jpg?ts=1730823054 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: </em>16</p><p><strong>Buddy Hield is better than Klay:</strong> The Warriors have begun this season 6-1, but instead of a Splash Brother, they've got a Splash Buddy. Hield is averaging 21.9 points per game and shooting 50% from beyond the arc.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">6. Dallas Mavericks (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>6</p><p><strong>Klay completes the puzzle:</strong> The Mavericks hit a home run with the acquisition of Thompson, who's averaging 14.7 points and cashing 39% from deep. His shooting and experience should help Dallas make a push.</p><h3><a id="NYK" name="NYK">7. New York Knicks (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>3</p><p><strong>The rim defense stinks:</strong> Karl-Anthony Towns is the only Knicks big man who gets any meaningful minutes, so it's probably not ideal that he has a 2.2% block rate or that opponents are shooting 79.6% at the rim against him.</p><h3><a id="LAL" name="LAL">8. Los Angeles Lakers (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>17</p><p><strong>JJ Redick is the answer:</strong> Redick seems to be the coach that will take the Lakers to the next level. Between his play-calling and making Anthony Davvis the focal point of the offense, L.A. should be back in contention despite a roster with many holes.</p><h3><a id="MEM" name="MEM">9. Memphis Grizzlies (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>11</p><p><strong>Jay Huff's the real deal:</strong> The fourth-year center out of Virginia has been a pleasant surprise, providing some low-post scoring, floor spacing, and shot-blocking off the bench for the Grizzlies. He's also had a few nasty dunks.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">10. Minnesota Timberwolves (4-3)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753707/cropped_GettyImages-2181833312.jpg?ts=1730823076" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753707/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181833312.jpg?ts=1730823076 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753707/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181833312.jpg?ts=1730823076 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753707/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181833312.jpg?ts=1730823076 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753707/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181833312.jpg?ts=1730823076 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753707/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181833312.jpg?ts=1730823076 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Berding / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: </em>8</p><p><strong>Mike Conley is over the hill:</strong> The history of small guards pushing 40 is not promising. Conley, 37, is off to a horrific start, averaging a career-low 7.9 points while shooting just 30<strong>%</strong> from the field. No, that number isn't a typo.</p><h3><a id="ORL" name="ORL">11. Orlando Magic (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>13</p><p><strong>Magic are trash without Paolo Banchero:</strong> After starting the campaign 3-2, the Magic have gone 0-3 since Banchero suffered a torn oblique. Breaking news: Orlando needs its star to take the next leap as a team.</p><h3><a id="SAC" name="SAC">12. Sacramento Kings (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>18</p><p><strong>Keegan Murray has peaked:</strong> The Iowa product has been a great complementary piece for the Kings, providing an efficient floor-spacing threat. But he may never be more than that. And that's fine.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">13. Denver Nuggets (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>4</p><p><strong>Denver needs to trade Jamal Murray:</strong> Shooting just 37%, Murray hasn't looked like the $208-million star the Nuggets need. Nikola Jokic called out the team's lack of outside threats, and a Murray deal is their best chance to improve the roster.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">14. Houston Rockets (4-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>21</p><p><strong>Pump the brakes on Reed Sheppard:</strong> A preseason Rookie of the Year pick, Sheppard is averaging a scant 3.1 points on 9.3 minutes per game for a Rockets team blessed with heaps of young talent. Early days, but still.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">15. Indiana Pacers (3-4)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751774/cropped_GettyImages-2181068562.jpg?ts=1730823126" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751774/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181068562.jpg?ts=1730823126 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751774/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181068562.jpg?ts=1730823126 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751774/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181068562.jpg?ts=1730823126 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751774/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181068562.jpg?ts=1730823126 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751774/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181068562.jpg?ts=1730823126 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: </em>9</p><p><strong>Tyrese Haliburton needs an intervention: </strong>After garnering early-season MVP chatter a season ago, Haliburton's numbers are down. He's shooting 38.2% from the field and put up zero points versus the Knicks.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">16. Miami Heat (3-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>15</p><p><strong>Jimmy Butler's washed:</strong> The Heat star's scoring is on pace to drop for the second straight season. Butler's 3-point percentage and free-throw percentage have also both dramatically decreased from the year prior. Yikes.</p><h3><a id="NOP" name="NOP">17. New Orleans Pelicans (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>14</p><p><strong>Fall injuries will cost Pels in spring:</strong> Eight games in, the Pelicans are already down four rotation players: Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy. When New Orleans misses the playoffs, this stretch will be why.</p><h3><a id="SAS" name="SAS">18. San Antonio Spurs (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>20</p><p><strong>Don't feed Wemby outside the paint:</strong> Victor Wembanyama is effectively unstoppable around the rim, but his field-goal percentage craters beyond 16 feet. The solution? Ignore the 7-foot-3 phenom until he improves.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">19. Atlanta Hawks (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>23</p><p><strong>The Trae Young era is over:</strong> The Hawks guard is averaging 23.9 points and is once again leading the league in assists, yet the club is still hovering around .500. He's taken Atlanta as far as possible and it's time to move on.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">20. Los Angeles Clippers (3-4)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753708/cropped_GettyImages-2180668025.jpg?ts=1730823288" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753708/w220xh124_GettyImages-2180668025.jpg?ts=1730823288 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753708/w320xh180_GettyImages-2180668025.jpg?ts=1730823288 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753708/w640xh360_GettyImages-2180668025.jpg?ts=1730823288 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753708/w768xh432_GettyImages-2180668025.jpg?ts=1730823288 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753708/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2180668025.jpg?ts=1730823288 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: </em>19</p><p><strong>Move back home:</strong> Until finally beating the Spurs on Monday, the Clippers were 0-4 in games at their brand-new Intuit Dome. The obvious remedy is to reunite as roomies with the Lakers until they're ready to move out again.</p><h3><a id="BKN" name="BKN">21. Brooklyn Nets (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>29</p><p><strong>Cam Thomas will win scoring title:</strong> The Nets' No. 1 option has always been labeled a "microwave scorer". Brooklyn doesn't have many (or any) offensive weapons outside of Thomas, so he should continue to get the green light.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">22. Chicago Bulls (3-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>22</p><p><strong>Treys or bust in the Windy City:</strong> The Bulls have stumbled into a 3-4 record with some absurd shooting performances. Only the Celtics are making more triples than the Bulls' 16.4 per game.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">23. Detroit Pistons (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>28</p><p><strong>Jaden Ivey will be MIP:</strong> Ivey's sophomore season left people questioning his skills, but he is changing that discourse. He's averaging a career-high 19.6 points while shooting 47% from the field and 39% from three.</p><h3><a id="TOR" name="TOR">24. Toronto Raptors (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>24</p><p><strong>RJ Barrett is an All-Star:</strong> The Canadian wing looks like an entirely different player to begin his first full season in his hometown, making noticeable strides not just as a scorer but as a facilitator, too. He's on pace for his first All-Star nod.</p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">25. Philadelphia 76ers (1-5)</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752291/cropped_GettyImages-2179743378.jpg?ts=1730823355" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752291/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179743378.jpg?ts=1730823355 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752291/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179743378.jpg?ts=1730823355 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752291/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179743378.jpg?ts=1730823355 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752291/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179743378.jpg?ts=1730823355 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752291/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179743378.jpg?ts=1730823355 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em>Previous rank: </em>5</p><p><strong>Season's over, see y'all next year:</strong> Despite getting Paul George back against the Suns, the 76ers dropped to 1-5, and there's still no sign that Joel Embiid is close to returning. Call it a day and regroup next October.</p><h3><a id="MIL" name="MIL">26. Milwaukee Bucks (1-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>10</p><p><strong>Trade Giannis now:</strong> The Bucks sit at the bottom of the East and show no signs of improving. Giannis Antetokounmpo, 29, wants to compete in the prime of his career. (Milwaukee won't do this, but imagine if it did.)</p><h3><a id="CHA" name="CHA">27. Charlotte Hornets (2-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>25</p><p><strong>LaMelo Ball is a liability:</strong> When he's on the court, Ball is putting up video game numbers. The problem is that he can't stay on the floor in crunch time - he fouled out of three of his first seven contests.</p><h3><a id="POR" name="POR">28. Portland Trail Blazers (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>26</p><p><strong>Why isn't Scoot Henderson starting? </strong>The Blazers are starting a bigger lineup to begin the season and bringing the former No. 3 pick off the bench. With no chance of being a good team, why is Portland limiting his minutes?</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">29. Washington Wizards (2-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>30</p><p><strong>Alex Sarr is a bust:</strong> Six games into his career, the French big is looking like a terrible draft choice at second overall. Sarr is averaging 9.8 points, seven boards, and shooting just 36.2% as a 7-footer.</p><h3><a id="UTA" name="UTA">30. Utah Jazz (1-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: </em>27</p><p><strong>Lauri Markkanen's contract was a mistake:</strong> The Jazz are atrocious, and the Spurs, Warriors, Kings, and Heat were reportedly interested in the Finnish sniper before he signed his new deal. Now he can't be moved this season.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28934488/related

NBA Power Rankings: Early overreactions for every team

Details on every deal made ahead of the Nov. 5, 4 p.m. ET trade deadline.  Khalil Davis ➡️ 49ers ...

<p><em>Details on every deal made ahead of the Nov. 5, 4 p.m. ET trade deadline.</em></p><h3>Khalil Davis ➡️ 49ers (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>49ers receive</th>
<th> Texans receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DT Khalil Davis</td>
<td> 2026 7th-round pick </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Tre'Davious White ➡️ Ravens (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Ravens receive</th>
<th>Rams receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CB Tre'Davious White</td>
<td>2026 7th-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2027 7th-round pick</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Preston Smith ➡️ Steelers (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Steelers receive</th>
<th>Packers receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DL Preston Smith</td>
<td>2025 7th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Mike Williams ➡️ Steelers (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Steelers receive</th>
<th>Jets receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WR Mike Williams</td>
<td>2025 5th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Marshon Lattimore ➡️ Commanders (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Commanders receive</th>
<th>Saints receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CB Marshon Lattimore</td>
<td>2025 3rd-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025 5th-round pick</td>
<td>2025 4th-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>2025 6th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Jonathan Mingo ➡️ Cowboys (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cowboys receive</th>
<th>Panthers receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WR Jonathan Mingo</td>
<td>2025 4th-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025 7th-round pick</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Khalil Herbert ➡️ Bengals (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Bengals receive</th>
<th>Bears receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>RB Khalil Herbert</td>
<td>2025 7th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Za’Darius Smith ➡️ Lions (Nov. 5)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Lions receive</th>
<th>Browns receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DE Za'Darius Smith</td>
<td>2025 5th-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2026 7th-round pick</td>
<td>2026 6th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Baron Browning ➡️ Cardinals (Nov. 4)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cardinals receive</th>
<th>Broncos receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LB Baron Browning</td>
<td>2025 6th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Cam Robinson ➡️ Vikings (Oct. 31)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Vikings receive</th>
<th> Jaguars receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LT Cam Robinson</td>
<td> 2026 5th-round pick (conditional)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2026 7th-round pick (conditional)</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Diontae Johnson ➡️ Ravens (Oct. 30)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Ravens receive</th>
<th>Panthers receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WR Diontae Johnson</td>
<td>2025 5th-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025 6th-round pick</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Joshua Uche ➡️ Chiefs (Oct. 28)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Chiefs receive</th>
<th> Patriots receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LB Joshua Uche</td>
<td>2026 6th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>DeAndre Hopkins ➡️ Chiefs (Oct. 24)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Chiefs receive</th>
<th>Titans receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WR DeAndre Hopkins</td>
<td>2025 5th-round pick (conditional)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Ernest Jones ➡️ Seahawks (Oct. 24)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Titans receive</th>
<th>Seahawks receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LB Jerome Baker</td>
<td>LB Ernest Jones</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025 4th-round pick</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Cam Akers ➡️ Vikings (Oct. 16)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Vikings receive</th>
<th>Texans receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>RB Cam Akers</td>
<td>2026 6th-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2026 7th-round pick (conditional)</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Roy Robertson-Harris ➡️ Seahawks (Oct. 15)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Seahawks receive</th>
<th>Jaguars receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DL Roy Robertson-Harris</td>
<td> 2026 6th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Amari Cooper ➡️ Bills (Oct. 15)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Bills receive</th>
<th> Browns receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WR Amari Cooper</td>
<td> 2025 3rd-round pick</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025 6th-round pick</td>
<td> 2026 7th-round pick</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>Davante Adams ➡️ Jets (Oct. 15)</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Jets receive</th>
<th> Raiders receive</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>WR Davante Adams</td>
<td> 2025 3rd-round pick (conditional)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 07: Marshon Lattimore #23 of the New Orleans Saints defends against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half of an NFL football game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on October 7, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28925870/related

NFL Trade Deadline Tracker

NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors.   Jump to: ARI | ATL |...

<p><em>NFL Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's football editors. </em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BUF">BUF</a> | <a href="#CAR">CAR</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#DEN">DEN</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#GB">GB</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#JAX">JAX</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAC">LAC</a> | <a href="#LAR">LAR</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NE">NE</a> | <a href="#NO">NO</a> | <a href="#NYG">NYG</a> | <a href="#NYJ">NYJ</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEN">TEN</a> | <a href="#WAS">WAS</a></p><h3><a id="KC" name="KC">1. Kansas City Chiefs (8-0)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 1</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753609/cropped_GettyImages-2182960828.jpg?ts=1730778160" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753609/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182960828.jpg?ts=1730778160 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753609/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182960828.jpg?ts=1730778160 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753609/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182960828.jpg?ts=1730778160 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753609/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182960828.jpg?ts=1730778160 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753609/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182960828.jpg?ts=1730778160 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Eulitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Chiefs fans held their breath when Mahomes appeared to injure his ankle in Monday night's win. Then Mahomes led two straight touchdown drives to move the franchise to 8-0. No matter what happens, a Chiefs victory seems inevitable.</p><h3><a id="DET" name="DET">2. Detroit Lions (7-1)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 2</em></p><p>The Lions rank first in points scored, fifth in points allowed, and continue to surge ahead in the NFC North. The scoreline of their 24-14 victory against the Packers, their sixth win in a row, doesn't reflect just how convincing they were throughout the game.</p><h3><a id="BAL" name="BAL">3. Baltimore Ravens (6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 3</em></p><p>Baltimore blew the doors off the Broncos, as Lamar Jackson maintained his status of front-runner in the MVP conversation. He boasts 20 passing touchdowns to two interceptions with five rushing scores, and his 120.7 passer rating leads the league.</p><h3><a id="BUF" name="BUF">4. Buffalo Bills (7-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 4</em></p><p>The Bills needed a late field goal to hold off the Dolphins, but they're leading a weak AFC East in which no other team currently has more than three wins.</p><h3><a id="MIN" name="MIN">5. Minnesota Vikings (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 6</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753628/cropped_GettyImages-2182903445.jpg?ts=1730781547" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753628/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182903445.jpg?ts=1730781547 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753628/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182903445.jpg?ts=1730781547 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753628/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182903445.jpg?ts=1730781547 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753628/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182903445.jpg?ts=1730781547 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753628/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182903445.jpg?ts=1730781547 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">David Berding / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Vikings got back in the win column by smothering Joe Flacco and the Colts in prime time, ending a two-game skid. </p><h3><a id="PHI" name="PHI">6. Philadelphia Eagles (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 8</em></p><p>Winning is sweet, but nothing is better than handing a heartbreaking loss to your former coach like the Eagles did to Doug Pederson and the Jaguars. After a rocky start, Philadelphia has four straight wins.</p><h3><a id="GB" name="GB">7. Green Bay Packers (6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 5</em></p><p>Green Bay dropped a key divisional game to the Lions, but the play of Jordan Love may be more concerning. Love has thrown at least one interception in each game he's started this season.</p><h3><a id="WAS" name="WAS">8. Washington Commanders (7-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 9</em></p><p>If you combine superb quarterback play, a solid rushing attack, a respectable defense, and a bit of heroics, you get the NFC East-leading Commanders. Jayden Daniels has been excellent as a dual-threat passer and, more impressively, hasn't been picked off since Week 5.</p><h3><a id="ATL" name="ATL">9. Atlanta Falcons (6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 11</em></p><p>The Falcons are quietly on a roll after winning five of their last six games. Kirk Cousins looks to be getting into top form with seven touchdowns and zero interceptions over the last two weeks.</p><h3><a id="HOU" name="HOU">10. Houston Texans (6-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 7</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753630/cropped_GettyImages-2182528452.jpg?ts=1730781612" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753630/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182528452.jpg?ts=1730781612 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753630/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182528452.jpg?ts=1730781612 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753630/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182528452.jpg?ts=1730781612 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753630/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182528452.jpg?ts=1730781612 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753630/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182528452.jpg?ts=1730781612 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Texans came out flat in a Thursday night defeat to the Jets, scoring only 13 points. C.J. Stroud has thrown only one touchdown over his last three starts, two of which were losses.</p><h3><a id="PIT" name="PIT">11. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 10</em></p><p>Mike Tomlin and the Steelers exit their bye week in first place of the AFC North. But next up is a tough test against the 7-2 Commanders and rookie sensation Daniels.</p><h3><a id="ARI" name="ARI">12. Arizona Cardinals (5-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 15</em></p><p>Winners of three in a row, the Cardinals kept their spot as leaders of the NFC West after holding the Bears to only nine points.</p><h3><a id="SF" name="SF">13. San Francisco 49ers (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 12</em></p><p>In a season wrecked by injuries, the 49ers got great news Monday, as reigning Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey returned to the practice field.</p><h3><a id="LAR" name="LAR">14. Los Angeles Rams (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 16</em></p><p>The Rams are gaining momentum at the right time. Sunday's overtime win was their third in a row, and with no team holding a significant lead in the NFC West, L.A. is still very much in the hunt for a playoff spot.</p><h3><a id="LAC" name="LAC">15. Los Angeles Chargers (5-3)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 18</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753631/cropped_GettyImages-2182698940.jpg?ts=1730781661" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753631/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182698940.jpg?ts=1730781661 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753631/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182698940.jpg?ts=1730781661 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753631/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182698940.jpg?ts=1730781661 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753631/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182698940.jpg?ts=1730781661 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753631/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182698940.jpg?ts=1730781661 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gregory Shamus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jim Harbaugh's first year back in the NFL is going great. The Chargers are 5-3 and own the stingiest defense in the league. They haven't allowed a single opponent to score over 20 points this season.</p><h3><a id="DEN" name="DEN">16. Denver Broncos (5-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 14</em></p><p>The Broncos allowed 41 points to the Ravens, which raises questions about the legitimacy of their 5-4 record. None of the teams Denver defeated this season are above .500 (Buccaneers, Jets, Raiders, Saints, and Panthers).</p><h3><a id="TB" name="TB">17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 17</em></p><p>Despite missing multiple wide receivers, Baker Mayfield is attempting to carry the Buccaneers to success. He fell just short against the reigning Super Bowl champions, but the Bucs are going to keep fighting as long as he's under center.</p><h3><a id="SEA" name="SEA">18. Seattle Seahawks (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 13</em></p><p>Remember when the Seahawks were 3-0? That feels like ages ago after they suffered their fifth loss in six games with an overtime defeat to the Rams.</p><h3><a id="NYJ" name="NYJ">19. New York Jets (3-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 24</em></p><p>Just when the Jets appeared left for dead, they showed life by beating the Texans. Aaron Rodgers, Davante Adams, and Co. still have a huge mountain to climb, but perhaps it's too early to count them out.</p><h3><a id="CIN" name="CIN">20. Cincinnati Bengals (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 21</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753633/cropped_GettyImages-2182885376.jpg?ts=1730781708" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753633/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182885376.jpg?ts=1730781708 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753633/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182885376.jpg?ts=1730781708 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753633/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182885376.jpg?ts=1730781708 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753633/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182885376.jpg?ts=1730781708 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753633/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182885376.jpg?ts=1730781708 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dylan Buell / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Bengals have lacked week-to-week consistency, but they exploded for a season-high 41 points against the Raiders. Their next two games against the Ravens and Chargers will likely decide the trajectory of their season.</p><h3><a id="CHI" name="CHI">21. Chicago Bears (4-4)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 19</em></p><p>The Bears have not looked the same since their bye week. Matt Eberflus' squad is 0-2 since then with a combined 24 points scored, and Caleb Williams looks out of rhythm.</p><h3><a id="IND" name="IND">22. Indianapolis Colts (4-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 22</em></p><p>Joe Flacco and the Colts struggled when they came across a good defense in the Vikings. The quarterback completed only 59.3% of his passes for under 200 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception.</p><h3><a id="MIA" name="MIA">23. Miami Dolphins (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 25</em></p><p>The Dolphins have lost both games since the return of Tua Tagovailoa. Those losses came by a combined four points, and the offense is essentially back to its baseline, but Miami's season might already be beyond recovery.</p><h3><a id="DAL" name="DAL">24. Dallas Cowboys (3-5)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 20</em></p><p>A multi-week hamstring injury to Dak Prescott may be the nail in the coffin for the Cowboys. But they struggled to win with him out there, so maybe there won't be much difference.</p><h3><a id="NYG" name="NYG">25. New York Giants (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 23</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753634/cropped_GettyImages-2182749767.jpg?ts=1730781751" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753634/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182749767.jpg?ts=1730781751 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753634/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182749767.jpg?ts=1730781751 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753634/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182749767.jpg?ts=1730781751 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753634/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182749767.jpg?ts=1730781751 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753634/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182749767.jpg?ts=1730781751 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Daniel Jones had arguably his cleanest game of the year with a season-high 119.7 passer rating, three total touchdowns, no interceptions, and only six incompletions. But it still wasn't enough to spare the Giants from their fourth consecutive loss.</p><h3><a id="JAX" name="JAX">26. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 26</em></p><p>After falling behind 22-0, the Jaguars battled back against the Eagles before Trevor Lawrence was intercepted in the end zone late in the game. The team is now 2-7, and it's tough to see Doug Pederson and Co. having much more time before serious changes are made.</p><h3><a id="NE" name="NE">27. New England Patriots (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 27</em></p><p>Drake Maye made a miraculous touchdown pass to send the Patriots to overtime against the Titans. It didn't result in a win, but Maye's clutch play was a promising sign for the future.</p><h3><a id="CLE" name="CLE">28. Cleveland Browns (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 28</em></p><p>The honeymoon from Cleveland's surprise victory over the Ravens in Week 8 ended as Jameis Winston threw three interceptions in a 17-point loss to the Chargers.</p><h3><a id="TEN" name="TEN">29. Tennessee Titans (2-6)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 31</em></p><p>For the first time this season, the Titans have back-to-back 400-plus-yard games on offense. Tennessee's season is essentially a wash, but an overtime victory against the Patriots was needed to improve team morale.</p><h3><a id="CAR" name="CAR">30. Carolina Panthers (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 32</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753636/cropped_GettyImages-2182724448.jpg?ts=1730781802" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753636/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182724448.jpg?ts=1730781802 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753636/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182724448.jpg?ts=1730781802 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753636/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182724448.jpg?ts=1730781802 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753636/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182724448.jpg?ts=1730781802 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753636/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182724448.jpg?ts=1730781802 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Matt Kelley / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It wasn't pretty, but Bryce Young got his first win of the season in a tight win against the Saints. Maybe Young can build on that with a matchup against the Giants looming.</p><h3><a id="LV" name="LV">31. Las Vegas Raiders (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 30</em></p><p>The Raiders used their third quarterback of the season as Desmond Ridder relieved Gardner Minshew in a blowout loss. After five losses in a row, it's no surprise Antonio Pierce cleaned house with his offensive staff, firing coordinator Luke Getsy, among others.</p><h3><a id="NO" name="NO">32. New Orleans Saints (2-7)</a></h3><p><em>Previous rank: 29</em></p><p>The Saints earned their rock-bottom placement after falling to the Panthers, their seventh loss in a row. That result came with real-world consequences, too, as Dennis Allen was fired the next day.</p>

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<p>Thirteen players received qualifying offers prior to Monday's 5 p.m. ET deadline.</p><p>Players that receive a qualifying offer from their team have until Nov. 19 to decide whether or not to accept the one-year, $21.05-million deal. Those who accept the offer will play under that contract for the 2025 season. They can, however, sign a longer deal.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Players receive qualifying offer" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pY55C" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pY55C/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="742" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Players that reject the qualifying offer will be attached to draft-pick compensation, meaning any team signing a player that rejected a qualifying offer will surrender a draft pick in 2025. The draft pick is determined by a number of factors, including the value of the contract signed, if the signing team exceeded the CBT in 2024, and if the team receives revenue sharing.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 23: Pete Alonso #20 of the New York Mets in action against the Philadelphia Phillies during a game at Citizens Bank Park on September 23, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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<p><em>We offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year and continue the 2024 schedule with the Brazilian Grand Prix.</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><p><strong>Verstappen's wet-weather masterclass may have sealed the drivers' championship</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753403/cropped_GettyImages-2182701618.jpg?ts=1730683454" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753403/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182701618.jpg?ts=1730683454 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753403/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182701618.jpg?ts=1730683454 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753403/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182701618.jpg?ts=1730683454 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753403/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182701618.jpg?ts=1730683454 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753403/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182701618.jpg?ts=1730683454 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>In a weekend filled with tributes to the legendary Ayrton Senna, reigning world champion Max Verstappen put forth a wet-weather drive on his home territory that would have made the Brazilian proud.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Forced to start 17th on the grid due to a costly red flag in qualifying and an engine penalty, Verstappen was in jeopardy of surrendering 25 points to his title rival and pole-sitter, Lando Norris. But when the spray dissipated, it was Verstappen who finished first, 30 seconds ahead of Norris, who tumbled to sixth.</p><p>In a race ruled by the laws of chaos - rain, red flags, and safety cars - Red Bull made all the right decisions and let Verstappen do the rest. By the end of Lap 1, he was already 10th. By Lap 11, he was sixth. And by Lap 43, he was in first, while Norris was in seventh.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"The championship pendulum swings in one corner!" 🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BrazilGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BrazilGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/WZwv6ozkzR">pic.twitter.com/WZwv6ozkzR</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1853149626959835408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>After taking the lead, Verstappen did something he hasn't been capable of doing in a while - stretch his legs. It was one fastest lap after another until the checkered flag, as the world champion won by a margin of 19.4 seconds. Having free air was key, but it felt symbolic that the driver who entered with a 10-race winless streak and criticism over his driving etiquette was flexing his muscle.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="10  fastest laps Sunday" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PwHUO" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PwHUO/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="373" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Verstappen also benefitted from a few lucky breaks. George Russell and Norris pitted from first and second, respectively, in the final seconds of a virtual safety car, which promoted Verstappen to second. A red flag a few laps later during a full safety car then allowed the Dutch driver to put on fresh intermediate tires. But the greats seem to have the ability to create their own luck. Verstappen put himself in a position to benefit and Red Bull returned the favor, making the right gamble that another safety car or red flag would occur.</p><p>The 27-year-old produced a drive that only comes around once a generation. He was the first driver in nearly 20 years (Kimi Raikkonen at Suzuka in 2005) to win from 17th or worse and is one of only five drivers to ever accomplish the feat. The fact that his back was against the wall with the championship battle seemingly hanging in the balance made it even more memorable.</p><p>If rain is the great equalizer, then Sunday's race demonstrated why Verstappen is on his way to another drivers' title and in a special class of drivers that includes Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Lewis Hamilton.</p><p><strong>Red flag hands Alpine massive day</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753404/cropped_GettyImages-2182701492.jpg?ts=1730683575" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753404/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182701492.jpg?ts=1730683575 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753404/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182701492.jpg?ts=1730683575 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753404/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182701492.jpg?ts=1730683575 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753404/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182701492.jpg?ts=1730683575 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753404/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182701492.jpg?ts=1730683575 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lars Baron - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Chaos and carnage may have defined the 2024 Brazilian GP, but this was a result Alpine could only have dreamt of.</p><p>Alpine’s gamble to not pit before Franco Colapinto’s red flag paid off. Esteban Ocon, starting the race from P4, held onto first after the red flag's restart and was only to be overtaken by a vintage Verstappen on a subsequent restart - which is impressive in its own right. Pierre Gasly picked up positions throughout the field and was able to hold off George Russell in his much faster Mercedes with ease.</p><p>Both Frenchmen managed spray from the rain and flew down the track on their intermediate tires, with Ocon ultimately finishing second and Gasly making up 12 positions to finish third. It’s Alpine’s first podium finish since Gasly finished third in Zandvoort 2023, and the 33 points earned jumps Alpine up to sixth from ninth in the constructor’s championship. Brazil is also the team's first double podium since 2013, where Kimi Räikkönen and Romain Grosjean took second and third, respectively, at the Korean Grand Prix. It may have taken 20 races, but in an otherwise lousy season for Alpine, their rainy double podium is one for the ages.</p><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753402/cropped_GettyImages-2182040996.jpg?ts=1730683412" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753402/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182040996.jpg?ts=1730683412 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753402/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182040996.jpg?ts=1730683412 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753402/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182040996.jpg?ts=1730683412 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753402/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182040996.jpg?ts=1730683412 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753402/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182040996.jpg?ts=1730683412 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vince Mignott/MB Media / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Max Verstappen</strong>: Every great has an iconic, resilient drive when it feels like all the odds are stacked against them. Lewis Hamilton had one in Brazil three years ago, and Verstappen got his defining moment Sunday at the same track with his unforgettable wet-weather drive. Despite being in rough shape after he was forced to start 17th, the reigning three-time world champion picked his way through the field as the rain came down and became only the fifth driver in Formula 1 history to win from 17th or further back. Sunday's wet-weather masterclass was, as Verstappen put it himself, simply lovely.</p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><p><strong>Verstappen on his historic performance:</strong> <em>"My emotions today have been a rollercoaster - with qualifying being really unlucky with the red flag - starting P17, I knew it was going to be a tough race. We stayed out of trouble, we made the right calls, we stayed calm and we were fine. Unbelievable, to win here from so far back on the grid."</em></p><p><strong>Horner on Verstappen's brilliant race:</strong> <em>"It was a masterclass today. In those conditions the driver's skill really comes forward. He was in a league of his own. ... An outstanding drive. To come from 17th - this morning it felt like everything had gone against us - but he turned it around. ... One of his very best."</em></p><p><strong>Norris on finishing 6th after starting from pole: </strong><em>"All of our position losses were under the red flag so a free pitstop for the others, it was unfortunate, nothing more. ... Sometimes, just unlucky and the rules go against you. Difficult day, I made a couple of mistakes. I had a lot of good races, it was about time something didn't go right. ... (Verstappen) drove well and got a bit lucky."</em></p><p><strong>Gasly on Alpine's incredible race:</strong><em> "It's incredible for the whole team. We've had such a tough season, we've struggled to score points. In these conditions everything was possible and I didn't believe it until the end - two cars on the podium - I don't think anyone would have got that on their bingo card at the start of the season. ... I'm absolutely buzzing right now. I am so proud of the team. To overcome such a tough season, it would have been too easy to give up, but we never gave up, and here we are."</em></p><p><strong>Hamilton on struggling with car to finish P10:</strong><em> "It's like a plank of wood, no suspension, bouncing on the tires everywhere, and can't get on the power. It's the worst ride that we've definitely ever had, particularly through corners, just so stiff. Hopefully we won't have anymore bumpy tracks."</em></p><h3>What's next?</h3><p>There's only three races left this season. After a two-week break, Formula 1 heads to Nevada for the Las Vegas GP on Nov. 24 at 1 a.m. ET. </p><p>Verstappen, who can clinch his fourth drivers' championship in Vegas, won the inaugural race at the street circuit last season ahead of Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-n60hN" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/n60hN/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1092" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3UheN" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3UheN/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="601" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
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Brazilian GP takeaways: Max masterclass, Lando loses his shot, Alpine's moment

A remarkably entertaining postseason culminated with the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the World Se...

<p>A remarkably entertaining postseason culminated with the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the World Series. It was a month of baseball at its best, and we're sad we won't get to watch meaningful games until next spring. As we head into the offseason, theScore's MLB editors<strong> </strong>reflect on the biggest talking points from October.</p><h3>What was your biggest takeaway from this postseason?</h3><p><strong>Don't tweak the postseason format: </strong>Although traditionalists would probably like to move back to having fewer teams make the playoffs, the current format works just fine. There's no way to please everyone, but less than half the teams in the league making the playoffs is very reasonable. This October showed how much fun the revamped wild-card round can be, and teams still have enough in the tank for the World Series. Stay the course.<em> - Josh Goldberg</em></p><p><strong>The bye week is good: </strong>I'm glad that this narrative is being put to rest. Three of the four best teams reached the LCS after being handed the advantage. Two won pennants, and the one that was eliminated early certainly didn't lose because of extra rest. If anything, MLB should go one step further and make it an even bigger advantage by giving the top seeds home field for the entire LDS. The bye gives teams an added incentive to play well down the stretch. <em>- Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Home runs remain king:</strong> The greatest way to win playoff games is with the long ball. Sure, other factors go into winning a championship, but with pitching at a premium and runs so hard to come by in October, hitting the ball over the fence remains the best path to victory. It's no coincidence that the Dodgers, who won their eighth World Series title, hit a postseason-best 27 homers in their 16 games. <em>- Brandon Wile</em></p><h3>What was your favorite moment from any series?</h3><p><strong>Freddie Freeman's World Series walk-off grand slam:</strong> The greatest home run in Dodgers history belonged to Kirk Gibson until Freeman delivered a walk-off grand slam in extra innings in Game 1 of the World Series. Not only was it the first walk-off grand slam in World Series history, Freeman hit the historic round-tripper on a bad ankle and set the table for what became a dominating championship performance from the Dodgers. <em>- Bryan Mcwilliam </em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">FREDDIE FREEMAN WALK-OFF GRAND SLAM. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDSERIES?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDSERIES</a> <a href="https://t.co/5MIY5CaX6a">pic.twitter.com/5MIY5CaX6a</a></p>— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dodgers/status/1850019815316172976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Francisco</strong> <strong>Lindor's slam to send Mets to NLCS: </strong>The biggest "OMG" moment of the Mets' playoff run was unquestionably Lindor's sixth-inning grand slam to eliminate the division-rival Philadelphia Phillies in Game 4 of the NLDS. The star shortstop's blast was all the offense New York needed in a 4-1 victory en route to securing a trip to the NLCS for the first time since 2015. - <em>Tom Ruminski</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">FRANCISCO LINDOR. GRAND SLAM. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NLDS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NLDS</a> <a href="https://t.co/CdKuEVOfT3">pic.twitter.com/CdKuEVOfT3</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1844160192176586900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Juan Soto's HR in ALCS Game 5:</strong> The greatness of Juan Soto was on full display during a now legendary at-bat against Cleveland Guardians reliever Hunter Gaddis: the swagger, the close takes, the stare-downs, and, of course, the towering home run. Soto delivered a signature moment when it mattered to propel the Yankees to their first World Series since 2009. - <em>Ben Wrixon</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">May we once again re-introduce, The Generational, Juan Soto. <a href="https://t.co/6R5fWpEg6I">pic.twitter.com/6R5fWpEg6I</a></p>— New York Yankees (@Yankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees/status/1847844346839658601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Who was your postseason MVP?</h3><p><strong>Mookie Betts:</strong> Mookie needed a strong performance after slumping in his past few postseason trips. He delivered big hits in every series this year and regularly provided his trademark excellent defensive play in right field. The 32-year-old shone bright in the NLCS, hitting .346 with six extra-base hits and nine RBIs in six games. On top of it all, Betts also drove in the World Series-winning run in Game 5. - <em>Goldberg</em></p><p><strong>Giancarlo Stanton:</strong> It's fair to wonder whether the Yankees would have reached the World Series without Stanton. He was great against the Royals in the ALDS and then homered four times in five games to win ALCS MVP. The 34-year-old led New York in home runs (7), RBIs (16), and slugging percentage (.709) throughout their pennant-winning run to further cement himself as one of MLB's greatest postseason hitters. - <em>Wrixon</em></p><p><strong>Tommy Edman:</strong> In a Dodgers lineup full of MVPs and stars, Edman stood out the most. He was acquired at the trade deadline for his defensive versatility more than his bat, but he posted a .328/.354/.508 slash line with 20 hits, 13 RBIs, and 31 total bases in 16 playoff games. He was instrumental in the Dodgers' NLCS win, earning MVP of the series, and continued to play at an elite level in the Fall Classic, collecting five hits in seventeen at-bats. - <em>Mcwilliam</em></p><h3>Who was your breakout performer?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749938/cropped_GettyImages-2178428659.jpg?ts=1728946516" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749938/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178428659.jpg?ts=1728946516 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749938/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178428659.jpg?ts=1728946516 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749938/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178428659.jpg?ts=1728946516 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749938/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178428659.jpg?ts=1728946516 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749938/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178428659.jpg?ts=1728946516 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Mark Vientos: </strong>The Mets slugger set a franchise record with 14 playoff RBIs. He slashed .327/.362/.636 and went deep five times in 55 at-bats. Vientos had an inconsistent regular season but now figures to be a building block for the Mets. He could be leaned on even more in 2025 if Pete Alonso doesn't return. - <em>Goldberg </em></p><p><strong>Luke Weaver:</strong> The right-hander began his breakout for the Yankees during the regular season, but he carried the momentum into the playoffs. Playing October baseball for the first time in his career, Weaver pitched in twelve of the Yankees' 14 playoff games, authoring a 1.76 ERA and 0.65 WHIP with 16 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings<strong>. </strong>He was a lifesaver for Aaron Boone during high-leverage situations, recording more than three outs in eight different appearances. - <em>Mcwilliam</em></p><p><strong>Tarik Skubal: </strong>It seems strange to call the likely AL Cy Young winner a breakout star, but that's exactly what he is. Few people outside of Michigan knew much about Skubal until his Tigers crashed the playoff party. All Skubal did once he got there was dominate, twirling two scoreless starts while striking out 20 with only two walks in 19 innings to lead the Tigers to the ALDS. The Tigers went home early, but not before Skubal emerged as the best starter of these playoffs. He did what an ace is supposed to do in October and made sure that his starts will be appointment viewing for baseball fans going forward. <em>- Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><h3>Who was your most disappointing player or team?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749269/cropped_GettyImages-2177678201.jpg?ts=1728530367" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749269/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177678201.jpg?ts=1728530367 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749269/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177678201.jpg?ts=1728530367 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749269/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177678201.jpg?ts=1728530367 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749269/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177678201.jpg?ts=1728530367 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749269/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177678201.jpg?ts=1728530367 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Philadelphia Phillies: </strong>After consecutive deep runs in October, expectations were World Series or bust for the Phillies after cruising to an NL East title. But things didn't go according to script: They lost to the Mets in the NLDS in four games. The bullpen was the biggest sore spot, struggling to the tune of an 11.37 ERA. Philadelphia's core continues to age, so the clock is rapidly ticking as the club looks to win its first World Series since 2008. <em>- Goldberg</em></p><p><strong>Aaron Judge:</strong> There is no bigger postseason disappointment than Judge, who flopped on the grandest of stages when his team needed him most. The Yankees captain and soon-to-be two-time MVP looked lost at the plate in the playoffs, hitting .184/.344/.408 with 20 strikeouts in 49 at-bats. He struggled the most in the World Series, collecting just four hits in those five games. Judge said losing the World Series "will stick with me until I die." - <em>Mcwilliam</em></p><p><strong>Baltimore Orioles:</strong> This was supposed to be the year the Orioles made noise in the postseason. Instead, they went out with a whimper yet again. Baltimore's powerful lineup - which ranked second in the AL in runs scored and home runs - scored just once while being swept in two games by the Royals in the wild-card round. Now, with Corbin Burnes and Anthony Santander headed for free agency, the club's once-bright future looks a little dimmer. - <em>Wrixon</em></p><h3>What pre-playoff prediction did you have the most wrong?</h3><p><strong>The Phillies would be unstoppable: </strong>I didn't just think the Phillies would win it all. I had them mopping the floor with their opponents. This was as complete of a team on paper as you'll ever find, with a roster seemingly tailor-made for October success. But this is why they play the games. Yes, the Mets were in the middle of a hot streak, but that wasn't why the Phillies lost the NLDS, and it wasn't the bye week either. Outside of Zack Wheeler, Bryce Harper, and Nick Castellanos, the Phillies simply didn't show up when the lights turned on. They'll have to dig deep to slay these playoff demons in 2025, and I'll have to think twice before picking them again. <em>- Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><p><strong>Orioles would win a series: </strong>The AL was wide open, and it seemed like the time might be right for Baltimore to have a postseason breakthrough. That couldn't have been further from the case - Baltimore's bats struggled mightily, hitting .167 with a .467 OPS in another quick October exit. The Orioles are loaded with young talent and have an enthusiastic owner determined to make the club a consistent contender. The core is 0-4 in the postseason and the pressure will be ratcheted up again in 2025 as the Orioles look to find some postseason success. - <em>Goldberg</em></p><p><strong>Thinking the Astros were as good as they used to be:</strong> Blinded by past postseason performances, I predicted Houston would appear in its eighth consecutive ALCS. Boy, was I wrong. The Astros couldn't even get out of the wild-card round - the Detroit Tigers swept them on their home turf. The signs of an early exit were there, too. Houston's starting staff entered the playoffs eleventh in FIP, while its once-heralded bullpen ranked 12th in win probability added. But a lack of runs ultimately doomed the Astros - they only scored three times in the two contests against the Tigers.- <em>Mcwilliam</em></p>

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MLB postseason roundtable: Breaking down an incredible October

What do you want to know, hockey fans?  This is an open call for questions of all kinds for John ...

<p>What do you want to know, hockey fans?</p><p>This is an open call for questions of all kinds for John Matisz, theScore's senior NHL writer. Select answers will appear in a future mailbag.</p><p>Is there something you've always wanted to ask a player, coach, or executive? John has access to these people and can seek an answer to your question.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Is there a team- or league-related trend you've wondered about? John can use his reporting expertise to dig into it. And don't be shy if you'd like to ask about something relating to the CBA, rulebook, or analytics.</p><p>There are three ways to submit a question:</p><ul>
<li><p>Comment on this article in theScore mobile app</p></li>
<li><p>Email John at <a href="mailto:john.matisz@theScore.com">john.matisz@thescore.com</a></p></li>
<li><p>Send John a message on Twitter/X (<a href="https://x.com/MatiszJohn">@matiszjohn</a>)</p></li>
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Ask John Matisz your NHL questions

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