ThePicks

12/17/2025

Messi’s Ballot: Who the GOAT Backed in 2025Lionel Messi’s voting record for the 2025 FIFA The Best awards is out in the open. For years, Messi has been a mainstay in both voting and nomination lists. But this time, he wasn’t even up for the award—yet he still cast his votes as Argentina’s captain.That alone tells you Messi still cares about the process and the players, even if his name wasn’t on the shortlist.]So, who did Messi put his weight behind? He gave top spot for Best Player to his old PSG teammate Ousmane Dembélé, then nodded to Kylian Mbappé, followed by rising star Lamine Yamal. For Best Coach, Messi favored Luis Enrique, Hansi Flick, and Mikel Arteta, again skewing towards familiar faces and past connections.Key developments in The Best voting- Ousmane Dembélé wins the main award, thanks to votes from national team captains—including Messi.
- Messi, not nominated for the first time in 18 years, still submitted a ballot for multiple categories.

Lionel Messi voted in the 2025 FIFA The Best awards, even though he wasn’t nominated. But Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s captain in name, wasn’t listed among voters. Here’s a closer look at how Messi voted, why Ronaldo’s missing, and what it tells us about these awards.

12/17/2025

The Controversial Catch: What Went Down in Panthers-SaintsIf you had any action on Sunday’s Panthers-Saints game, you know just how crucial every call becomes in a tight spot. Late in the fourth quarter, with the game tied and momentum hanging in the balance, a ruling on a Tetairoa McMillan catch swung things a little too much for comfort—thanks to the NFL’s ongoing confusion with the catch rule.The Panthers thought they had a clear 12-yard gain to keep their drive moving. But after a Saints challenge, replay officials overturned the catch, taking a first down off the board with under three minutes left. The Panthers got the conversion on the next play, but it’s the principle (and the potential for different outcomes) that’s got folks heated, and rightfully so.]Turns out, the NFL privately admitted they shouldn’t have overturned the original ruling.

12/16/2025

Mets Grab Jorge Polanco: What Does It Mean?The Mets just got a fresh jolt of infield talent with Jorge Polanco coming on board. On The Mets Pod, Connor Rogers and Joe DeMayo jumped right into what this move signals. Polanco is more than depth—he’s a starter, and his presence changes the lineup dynamic immediately.Polanco's been a proven bat with the Twins, mixing pop and decent defense at second base. The Mets have long needed a steady hand up the middle and a little thunder from the right side of the plate, and Polanco checks both boxes. His ability to get on base and drive in runs puts pressure off the Mets' young core, and frankly, gives them some insurance against injuries or underperformers.]This signing underlines that the Mets aren’t just tinkering. They’re looking to compete—right now.

Jorge Polanco is officially a Met, and the rumor mill is churning with potential trade talk around the Padres. Connor Rogers and Joe DeMayo break down what Polanco brings, consider what moves could come next, and gauge how much leash David Stearns really has at the helm.

12/16/2025

Week 9 High Score 100: Who’s Climbing and Who’s Slipping?If you want to win your fantasy basketball league, you need to know who's really getting it done—not just who looks good on paper. Every week, the High Score 100 gives you a reality check by spotlighting the true biggest risers and fallers. This week, it's the Cooper Flagg Show. And some big names are heading the other way.Let’s get into what changed, and how it should shape your roster decisions as we stare down the stretch run of the fantasy season.]Cooper Flagg: Rookie Phenom Turns HeadsIf you haven't paid close attention, Cooper Flagg’s historic week should get you there. This 18-year-old just became the youngest NBA player ever to drop 40 in a game—actually, he put up 42. That’s not just a headline; it’s 70 fantasy points in a single contest. Over his last ten, he's topped 40 fantasy points in six.

Week 9 of the High Score 100 shake-up sees rookie Cooper Flagg leap into the top 40 with a record-breaking performance, while proven vets like Nikola Vučević tumble down the rankings. Find out what’s driving the biggest moves and what it means for your team.

12/16/2025

How to Watch CD Guadalajara vs Barcelona in the USCan’t wait to see Barcelona’s Copa del Rey opener? You’ve got options whether you’re glued to a big screen or catching the match on the go. The game kicks off Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 3:30pm ET (12:30pm PT), and you can watch every minute from the comfort of your couch or wherever you like to stream.ESPN+ has the exclusive English-language broadcast, with Fubo and ESPN Select also carrying the match. That means if you’re already set up with any of these, you’re covered. Each service has apps ready for your computer, phone, or pretty much any modern device.]Barça are the clear favorites, not just because they own the Copa del Rey trophy, but because their form this season is nothing short of relentless.

Barcelona kicks off its Copa del Rey defense against CD Guadalajara. If you're in the US and want to watch every minute, here's where and how you can stream or tune in on TV, plus key details on scheduling and platforms.

12/16/2025

Fitzpatrick's Injury Creates Uncertainty for Dolphins BackersMinkah Fitzpatrick picked up a calf injury during Monday's loss to the Steelers. That stopped a streak of 14 starts for the Dolphins' safety, who's been a rock in their secondary all year. Head coach Mike McDaniel calmed nerves a bit on Tuesday, telling reporters that Fitzpatrick's injury isn't expected to end his season. He described it as 'week-to-week.'So, Fitzpatrick could return for the last stretch when Miami needs him most. But right now, there's no telling exactly when he'll be back—or how close to 100% he'll be if he plays at all.]For the betting crowd, there are a few big questions. How much does his absence hurt a defense that's relied on him all season? Can Miami's secondary hold up against teams like the Bengals, Buccaneers, and Patriots without their leader at the back?Key Developments- Fitzpatrick suffered a non-season-ending calf injury in the loss to the Steelers.

Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick suffered a calf injury but isn't expected to miss the entire season. Coach Mike McDaniel says Fitzpatrick is week-to-week, giving Miami a chance to get him back for their final playoff push.

12/16/2025

Copa del Rey Round of 32: CD Guadalajara vs Barcelona TV and Streaming Guide
If you want to catch every second as Barcelona begin their Copa del Rey defense against CD Guadalajara, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether streaming at home or flipping on the TV, here’s how you can watch the action live from the United States.
]
The match takes place Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 3:00pm ET (noon Pacific). Barca comes into the tie flying high as La Liga’s pace-setter, but knockout football always throws up surprises—and Guadalajara have nothing to lose in this classic underdog scenario. If you’re sizing up where to tune in or figuring out which subscription gives you the best coverage, let’s break down your options.

Barcelona kick off their Copa del Rey defense against CD Guadalajara, and US viewers have plenty of legal ways to watch live. Find the full TV schedule, streaming options, and what makes this Spanish cup clash worth tuning in for right here.

12/16/2025

NBA Cup Final May Be On The MoveThe NBA Cup has quickly become a centerpiece for the league's early season. Thanks to Amazon Prime Video's investment and a ratings jump of 90 percent, NBA execs have to be happy. But just because revenue is up doesn't mean they're satisfied with everything—especially what they're seeing in Las Vegas.]Word is, the NBA Cup final could move out of Las Vegas as soon as next season. The semifinals are already heading to the home arena of the higher-seeded team. And while a neutral-site final is still in the blueprint, Las Vegas isn't a lock anymore.Key Developments- The NBA Cup will return next season, with a major Amazon Prime Video partnership still in place.
- Semifinal games shift to the higher seed’s home market for more energy and ticket sales.
- The NBA Cup final could leave Las Vegas amid complaints about lagging crowd energy and empty seats.
- No long-term contract ties the league to Vegas, allowing flexibility.

The NBA is weighing whether to move the NBA Cup final out of Las Vegas next season. With concerns about local energy, empty seats, and TV optics, the league’s decision could shift the dynamics for bettors and broadcasters alike.

12/16/2025

Red Wings Look to Flip the Script at HomeThe Detroit Red Wings have a score to settle. After being outscored 12-2 by the New York Islanders in their previous two meetings, Detroit hits the ice at Little Caesars Arena looking to prove those losses were a fluke, not a trend. Detroit’s playing some of its best hockey lately, going 5-1-2 in their last eight, but beating the Islanders would be the biggest statement yet for this squad.New York heads to Motor City with momentum too. They’ve won six of their last seven and shown, head-to-head, that their physical, structured game gives Detroit fits. Both clubs are fighting to secure playoff spots, so you’re getting two teams with something real to prove.]What should you expect if you’re thinking about betting this one?

The Red Wings look to avenge two early-season routs by the Islanders, who have outscored Detroit 12–2 so far. With Detroit heating up and key lineup changes on tap, this matchup is a crucial barometer for both squads’ playoff hopes and offers juicy betting angles.

12/16/2025

Adolis García Heads to Philly: Breaking Down the DealThe Phillies have reached an agreement with Adolis García, hauling in the two-time All-Star for a reported $10 million over one year. This move settles their outfield situation just as Nick Castellanos appears to be on his way out. García's presence in right field is a clear signal: Philadelphia wants big power and a fresh spark heading into the 2026 campaign.García’s signing shows that the Phillies aren't messing about when it comes to adding pop to their lineup, even if recent stats suggest there’s some risk involved.]But here’s the thing: when you look at what García did in 2023—career highs in almost every major stat, leading the Rangers to a World Series, and taking home ALCS MVP honors—there’s huge upside if he can approach anywhere near that form again.Key Developments- Phillies sign García for one year at $10 million, locking in their right fielder.
- García coming off a mixed 2024 campaign: .227 average, 19 HRs, 75 RBIs.

Philadelphia just snagged Adolis García on a one-year deal worth $10 million for the 2026 season. The former Rangers All-Star is set to anchor right field, with Nick Castellanos expected on the way out. Let's break down why this move matters for bettors and fans alike.

12/16/2025

Braves Bring Ha-Seong Kim Back: Here’s Why You Should CareThe Braves just locked in one of the most reliable defenders on the market, signing Ha-Seong Kim to a one-year, $20 million contract. This is a smart bit of business if you ask me. Atlanta gets stability at shortstop, and Kim gets another shot at free agency next year if he proves he’s back to his best. All this after Kim turned down a $16 million option in Tampa—so the man bet on himself and cashed in with Atlanta.The deal’s not just about plugging a hole. It says the Braves aren’t here to mess around: they want proven talent holding down the infield. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos even hinted this could just be the start, leaving the door open for a longer stay if Kim delivers like he did with the Padres.]Let’s talk numbers for a second. Kim hit .234 with five home runs after coming back from shoulder surgery, so he was clearly shaking off rust. But when healthy, he’s got a .242 average in MLB, and his glove is legit.

The Braves snagged Ha-Seong Kim on a one-year, $20 million deal, keeping a proven defensive shortstop in Atlanta. Kim’s move boosts depth, pushes Dubón to a utility role, and signals the Braves are focused on a serious playoff run in 2025.

12/16/2025

Udoka’s Furious Postgame Rant: What Set Him Off?Ime Udoka was absolutely fuming after the Rockets dropped a 128-125 overtime heartbreaker to the Denver Nuggets. In the postgame press conference, he didn’t just question a few close calls. He unleashed, calling this the “most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time.” If you like honesty, you got it straight from Udoka.The Rockets’ coach didn’t name names, but he torched the entire officiating team. "Two have no business being out there and the crew chief was acting star struck," Udoka said. When a coach gets this fired up, you know he believes the refs fundamentally shifted the game’s outcome.]What Actually Happened Down the Stretch?This wasn’t just sour grapes. Late in the fourth quarter, the Rockets looked set to lock up a quality road win. That all flipped after a questionable tripping foul on Houston, which sent Denver’s Jamal Murray to the free-throw line for a chance to tie. Udoka immediately challenged, but the call stood.

Ime Udoka openly slammed NBA officiating after the Rockets’ dramatic 128-125 overtime loss to the Nuggets. He didn’t just vent—he called out the entire crew, setting himself up for a likely hefty league fine.