The hottest Sports Substack posts right now

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Knicks Film School 872 implied HN points 14 Oct 24
  1. Donte DiVincenzo had a tense moment with assistant coach Rick Brunson during the game, but it was all in the heat of competition. They both agreed to address it privately later.
  2. The Knicks won the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, though their shooting wasn't great. They made up for it by getting to the free-throw line often.
  3. The team is still figuring out how to best use its players, especially in the preseason. With more practice, their execution should improve as the regular season approaches.
Stealing Signals 479 implied HN points 18 Oct 24
  1. It's hard to predict player performance in crowded backfields where multiple players are used. Sometimes it's better to avoid these players altogether if you're unsure.
  2. Having a few touches can create a low floor for players, but there's potential for upside too. Situational players can still be worth starting in certain circumstances.
  3. Uncertainty in player roles can lead to new opportunities. Sometimes taking a risk on lesser-known players can pay off in surprising ways.
Knicks Film School 1051 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. Julius Randle's journey with the Knicks has been full of ups and downs, but he played a huge role in turning the team's fortunes around. He went from being seen as an afterthought to an All-Star player.
  2. Despite his impressive stats and contribution to the team, Randle might not receive the love he deserves from fans. Many see him as a complex figure, and his departure has sparked mixed feelings among supporters.
  3. Randle's legacy in New York will be shaped by how the team continues to perform after his exit. His impact was significant, making him one of the most important Knicks, but fans will see how they remember him as time passes.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1150 implied HN points 26 Feb 26
  1. Athletes should be allowed to focus on competing and winning, not be treated as stand-ins for political views.
  2. The hockey victory was a raw, emotional moment of brotherhood, patriotism, and grief, full of human details like players celebrating and honoring those lost.
  3. Fans and critics should stop overanalyzing or politicizing athletes' celebrations and let them enjoy their triumphs.
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Stealing Signals 639 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. Rookie running backs can experience quick changes in their roles and performances. It's important to track their progress and be patient, as outcomes can shift unexpectedly.
  2. A focused viewing experience can lead to deeper understanding and insights about games. Watching one game at a time allows for better evaluation of player performances and strategies.
  3. Coaching decisions can significantly impact game outcomes. Poor choices, like punting in crucial moments, can waste opportunities and alter the flow of the game.
Stealing Signals 519 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. Davante Adams has been traded to the New York Jets, which impacts Garrett Wilson's potential target share but might not decrease his overall value too much. Both players could still have significant roles in the Jets' offense.
  2. Brock Bowers is highlighted as a top tight end prospect, expected to perform well in the second half of the fantasy season, especially with favorable matchups in weeks 15-17.
  3. Amari Cooper's trade to the Bills is seen as a chance for him to have some big games, but he might not be as consistent as players on the Jets. His situation involves some uncertainty with the new team's chemistry.
Knicks Film School 853 implied HN points 10 Oct 24
  1. The Knicks had a strong performance in their preseason game against the Wizards, showing their potential even against a weak opponent.
  2. Jalen Brunson played exceptionally well, scoring 25 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns also stepped up with a double-double.
  3. The Knicks' defense looks tough this season, with their length being a significant factor in their game.
Knicks Film School 1011 implied HN points 07 Oct 24
  1. The Knicks are starting a new season and had their first game with big hopes and changes. They're excited to see how the team plays together.
  2. There are some format changes to the newsletter, making it easier for readers to catch up on games. It will now include quick bullet points instead of long recaps.
  3. Patrick Ewing is back with the Knicks in a new role, and fans are hopeful about how this could help the team improve.
Knicks Film School 535 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. The Knicks have a strong chance to win the NBA Championship this season. They are healthy and have a great mix of skilled players.
  2. Rebounding will be a key focus for the team. With some player changes, it's essential to see who will step up to grab the boards.
  3. Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns could lead the team in rebounds. They both have a good track record, so expectations are high.
Knicks Film School 753 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. There's a debate about who should start as the fifth player on the team, with a focus on Deuce McBride and Josh Hart. Fans have strong opinions on who would be better.
  2. The idea of happiness comes up, suggesting that sometimes people aren’t satisfied and always want more, even if the team seems set for the season.
  3. As the team moves toward the opening night, discussions around player choices are heating up, reflecting ongoing excitement and anticipation for the season.
Stealing Signals 659 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. Football is more than just a physical game; it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Teams that focus on preparation tend to perform better because they understand the bigger picture.
  2. Coaches sometimes make poor decisions by focusing too much on small details instead of the overall goal of winning. It's important to stay aware of what really matters in the game.
  3. To maximize success, teams must balance being aggressive and playing smart. Making the right choices during key moments can greatly impact the outcome of games.
Personality Disorder 79 implied HN points 25 Oct 24
  1. A person's grip strength suddenly decreases, leading them to struggle with simple tasks like writing and eating. It turns out the issue stems from excessive squeezing of a paper towel while watching a game.
  2. Fan rituals can be quirky and are often believed to influence game outcomes, no matter how silly they may seem. The writer held onto a marinara-sauce-stained paper towel during games, believing it brought luck.
  3. Even minor, unusual injuries can be frustrating and impact daily life. The experience serves as a reminder that even fun rituals can lead to unexpected consequences.
No Grass in the Clouds 99 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. Liverpool's best players, Mo Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk, could leave after this season due to uncertain contract situations.
  2. The club has faced issues with its leadership and management, making it tough to handle player contracts effectively.
  3. Players may hesitate to sign long-term deals when they see instability in the club's management and direction.
Knicks Film School 615 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. The Knicks are expected to be strong this season, with a significant number of general managers predicting they will finish in the top three of the Eastern Conference.
  2. Jalen Brunson is recognized as one of the best point guards, with many executives valuing his leadership qualities.
  3. The Knicks had a successful offseason, with their player acquisitions being highlighted as impactful moves, and the team's offensive efficiency being acknowledged as a strength.
The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday 499 implied HN points 24 Feb 26
  1. The US men's hockey team was filmed laughing after their gold-medal win, and that clip quickly went viral.
  2. Many on social media saw the laughter as disrespect toward the women's team and used it to criticize men more broadly.
  3. People are asking whether the intense online backlash is a fair response or an overblown example of the 'outrage Olympics.'
Knicks Film School 833 implied HN points 04 Oct 24
  1. The Knicks traded Julius Randle for Karl-Anthony Towns to strengthen their center position, aiming to improve their chances for a championship. This was a big decision made amidst concerns about Randle's contract and fit on the team.
  2. Karl-Anthony Towns is a better offensive player than Julius Randle, especially when it comes to shooting from long range. His ability to stretch the floor can give the team more lineup options and improve their offense.
  3. While the trade carries risks, such as losing depth and Towns' potential defensive weaknesses, the Knicks believe that acquiring him will make the team more competitive in the playoffs. There's excitement about the team's chances moving forward.
Silver Bulletin 86 implied HN points 15 Mar 26
  1. Final regular-season COOPER power ratings have been published for all 363 Division I women's basketball teams, tracking each team’s highs and lows over the year.
  2. COOPER is a new Elo/Bayesian-style rating system that blends wins, margin of victory, tempo, preseason polls, and conference strength, and it weights recent, close, conference, and tournament games more heavily with some customization for the women’s game.
  3. Paid subscribers get the full dataset and extras — offensive/defensive ratings, strength of schedule and home-court factors, an objective-only version, historical season-end ratings back to 2002–03, a spreadsheet to convert ratings into win probabilities, and NCAA tournament forecasts coming after the brackets.
Stealing Signals 439 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. Injuries are impacting many teams, and managing your roster well is important. Pay close attention to injury reports to make smart roster moves.
  2. Some players are stepping up as key backups due to injuries, making them valuable adds for fantasy teams. Keep an eye on players like Isaac Guerendo and Blake Corum as potential game-changers.
  3. The unpredictability of player performance is a big part of the NFL season. A player's value can change quickly based on game situations and injuries, so stay flexible in your strategy.
Huddle Up 178 implied HN points 08 Mar 26
  1. Michael Jordan is making a big impact in NASCAR with dominant performances that show his competitiveness translates to motorsports.
  2. Formula 1’s global schedule is expanding, with a busier calendar and new markets increasing the sport’s international reach.
  3. Inter Miami reached a stadium naming rights deal that boosts the club’s commercial revenue and highlights growing business interest in MLS.
Stealing Signals 499 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. Offensive football is evolving, with more exciting plays and downfield shots happening. Quarterbacks are becoming better at making big plays, which makes the game more enjoyable.
  2. In fantasy leagues, it's important to play for high-scoring potential rather than just trying to avoid losses. Playing safe can lead to missed opportunities and a loss, so always aim for the best possible plays.
  3. Analyzing football can be a complex task, and it's common for analysts to have blind spots. It's crucial to keep digging deep and not rely only on surface-level insights to make informed decisions.
Freddie deBoer 2382 implied HN points 21 Jan 26
  1. Sean McDermott rebuilt the Bills and earned respect, but his defenses repeatedly collapsed in playoff games, so firing him was justifiable.
  2. The team's biggest problems have been poor roster construction—especially at wide receiver and in getting an impact pass rusher—which are primarily the GM's responsibility and have crippled postseason chances.
  3. Fans and local media have reason to be angry about how the firing and front office handling were conducted, but meaningful change was necessary to try to get past the team’s playoff ceiling.
Running Probably 59 implied HN points 25 Oct 24
  1. It's important to check in on your progress with running and to think deeply about how you feel about your journey so far. Use a journal to explore your thoughts and emotions.
  2. Vary your running distances and routes to keep things interesting. Plan for at least one long run each week as part of your routine.
  3. Take recovery seriously and listen to your body. Don't be afraid to reduce your running mileage sometimes to allow yourself to rest and recharge.
Stealing Signals 559 implied HN points 05 Oct 24
  1. The Falcons have shown potential in their passing game, with players like Kyle Pitts and Drake London stepping up. Despite some inconsistencies, their improved offense could lead to better performance in future games.
  2. Bijan Robinson is still in a good position despite recent struggles. His workload suggests he can bounce back and have strong games, especially as the team's offensive performance improves.
  3. Depth in fantasy football is crucial, particularly as bye weeks begin. Having strong options helps teams manage injuries and maintain competitiveness through tougher weeks.
Stealing Signals 599 implied HN points 03 Oct 24
  1. Routes data is really important for understanding how well players are performing. Different sources measure these routes in different ways, which can create confusion.
  2. The NFL has started providing its own routes data, which could help standardize how we analyze player performance. This might make comparisons easier and clearer moving forward.
  3. Stats like TPRR (Targets Per Route Run) help us understand player efficiency, but they need to be used alongside other context like player roles and QB performance for better insights.
Stealing Signals 519 implied HN points 05 Oct 24
  1. Pay attention to the New England Patriots' running backs. Rhamondre Stevenson might not start, but he could still play, making him a risky start depending on his fumbles.
  2. When trading players like Breece Hall and Ken Walker, consider the long-term outlook. A good game from one player can quickly change their value, so timing and player reputation matter.
  3. Don't underestimate rookies like Keon Coleman. With injuries on the team, they might get more chances to shine, making them worth considering for your lineup.
Huddle Up 197 implied HN points 05 Mar 26
  1. Many healthy big-name MLB players are being kept out of the World Baseball Classic because the tournament requires their contracts to be insured and the broker is denying coverage for those with prior injuries, recent surgeries, older age, or large contracts.
  2. Two costly injuries in the 2023 WBC forced the insurer to tighten underwriting rules, creating strict red flags (like no coverage for players 37+, recent 60-day IL stints, or offseason surgeries) and a binary approve/deny process based on risk tiers.
  3. There are workable fixes — a capped FIFA-style program, a self-insured MLB/MLBPA fund, or moving the tournament window — but they would shift financial risk onto MLB or the union, and owners are unlikely to accept that given the WBC’s relatively small revenue and the need to protect guaranteed contracts.
Malt Liquidity 12 implied HN points 21 Mar 26
  1. Getting good at games teaches a concrete process—practice, feedback, and true competition—that builds real confidence and a way to gamify self-improvement in life.
  2. Treating golf as a deliberate project—buying gear and customizing a small set of clubs—makes practice efficient. Focusing on distance control and consistent routines leads to steady, measurable improvement.
  3. Golf offers rare, accessible flow: a scenic walk, social time, and a restorative outlet from an always-on information life. That mental benefit depends on mindset—only the player can "spoil the walk".
Chad Ford's NBA Big Board 59 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. Vertical lob threats are important in the NBA because they help create offensive space, making it easier to score. They can change games by forcing defenses to choose between protecting the rim or the perimeter.
  2. Having players who can catch lobs and finish at the rim opens opportunities for shooters and playmakers. This diversifies the team's strategy and keeps defenses guessing.
  3. Prospects like Miles Rubin show promise as lob threats and could surprise teams in the 2025 NBA Draft. Their unique skills might not always show in stats but can be crucial for team success.
Astral Codex Ten 5919 implied HN points 27 Nov 25
  1. The argument that transgender athletes always have an advantage is often overstated. In many cases, other factors play a bigger role in sports success.
  2. Transgender athletes can face unique challenges that may offset any physical advantages they might have. These challenges can impact their performance.
  3. Fairness in sports is complex and not just about physical traits. We need to consider a variety of aspects to truly understand what fairness means.
Freddie deBoer 3496 implied HN points 18 Dec 25
  1. LeBron’s claim to be the GOAT is strongest while he’s still playing, but it will weaken after he retires because cultural attention and recency bias shape who gets remembered.
  2. Comparing athletes across eras is misleading since rules, training, scouting, and media change how players perform and how we perceive them.
  3. GOAT debates are more about identity, nostalgia, and presentism than objective truth, so labels of "greatest ever" are temporary and context-dependent.
No Grass in the Clouds 159 implied HN points 16 Oct 24
  1. Pochettino's current U.S. team is not as strong as the teams he previously coached, with a much lower market value.
  2. Key players like Pulisic and McKennie didn't fully participate in recent games, impacting the team's performance.
  3. The expected outcome of the games against Panama and Mexico matched reality, showing that even a great coach can't win with limited resources.
Huddle Up 185 implied HN points 01 Mar 26
  1. A new weekly Sunday recap is being added and will be sent to everyone as a short, informal update.
  2. Paid subscribers will still receive three weekly deep dives, and the new recap is meant to complement those with quicker highlights.
  3. Key topics highlighted include the UFC spending $60 million at the White House, MLS’s hot start, and Paramount’s growing sports portfolio.
Trench Warfare 79 implied HN points 22 Oct 24
  1. The True Sack Rate (TSR) is a system that evaluates sacks by defensive linemen based on how they earned those sacks. It breaks down sacks into categories, helping to better evaluate a player’s skill and performance.
  2. There are four types of sacks in the TSR, ranging from rare high-quality wins over elite blockers to more common 'cleanup' sacks that are less about skill. This helps to highlight which players are truly impactful in games.
  3. Currently, top players in the TSR have recorded impressive sack scores, showcasing their effectiveness this season. Studying their performance can give fans deeper insights into who stands out on the field.
Chad Ford's NBA Big Board 79 implied HN points 20 Oct 24
  1. Top freshmen are making a strong impression in exhibition games. Players like Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey are showcasing their talent and preparing for the upcoming season.
  2. Cooper Flagg is projected as a potential No. 1 pick for the 2025 NBA Draft. He had an impressive outing with 22 points and several assists and blocks in his debut.
  3. There are emerging talents from overseas like Mouhamad Faye who could surprise everyone in the 2025 draft. Keep an eye on these rising stars as the season progresses.
House of Strauss 15 implied HN points 20 Mar 26
  1. Leagues partnering with prediction markets are sparking intense backlash because these markets create new integrity risks like insider trading or manipulation of events.
  2. Prediction markets can be better for individual bettors since winners aren’t automatically locked out, but professional market makers and institutional traders still have big pricing advantages.
  3. There’s a trade-off: prediction markets may be preferable for some bettors, yet they raise ethical and regulatory questions about the future fairness and safety of sports.
Running Probably 119 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. The author has accepted that their racing season is over and they recognize the need to face this reality. It's tough to let go of something they love, but they understand it’s necessary.
  2. They acknowledge that preparing for a big race like the JFK 50 can't be done without proper training, highlighting that they need to think logically about their situation.
  3. While they are trying to accept this shutdown, they also mention struggling with their feelings and hope that time will help them process everything better.
House of Strauss 71 implied HN points 11 Mar 26
  1. Bam Adebayo’s 83 points feel like a stain because the game was shaped by tanking, intentional fouling, and contrived free throws rather than straightforward competition.
  2. The performance highlights bigger problems in the modern NBA — optimization, teams losing on purpose, and rule exploitation — making extreme stat lines easier and less meaningful than historic feats.
  3. The widespread disgust over the game could be useful: this controversy might catalyze real league reform, and the issue is with league policies and structure, not the player.
No Grass in the Clouds 139 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. Brentford has been scoring quickly, netting goals in the first 90 seconds of their games. This gives them a strong advantage over the other teams.
  2. Teams that score first tend to win more often, making early scoring really important in soccer.
  3. Brentford's strategy could be a smart playbook for other teams to follow to boost their chances of winning games.