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Gymnast Maggie Nichols Opens Up About Eating Disorder and Abuse in New Memoir

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Key Takeaways:
– Elite gymnast, Maggie Nichols reveals struggle with eating disorder in her new memoir, “Unstoppable!”.
– The disorder was triggered by derogatory comments about her body from a coach.
– Nichols chronicles physical abuse by disgraced team doctor, Larry Nassar.
– Nichols was the first to come forward about Nassar’s abuse in 2015, known anonymously as “Athlete A”.
– Today, Nichols is actively advocating for victims of abuse through her foundation.

Hailing from the elite echelons of USA Gymnastics, Maggie Nichols, now 26, recently unveiled her haunting past in an empowering memoir named “Unstoppable!” In this moving autobiography, Nichols recounts her teenage struggle with an eating disorder and abuse at the hands of a once-trusted team doctor. Mentally scarred by the ordeal, Nichols shared her journey to recovery, inspiring others who may be mired in similar experiences.

Preparing for the Olympics: A Looming Nightmare

As a teenager, Nichols trained with powerhouse athletes like Simone Biles and Aly Raisman, aspiring for the 2016 Olympics in Rio. However, during this strenuous training period in 2015 at the famed Karolyi Ranch in Texas, Nichols traversed career-derailing difficulties.

Nichols vividly recalls a disheartening experience when a coach judged her body shamelessly, comparing her to a “puffy marshmallow”. This unpleasant criticism acted as a catalyst to the onset of her eating disorder. Nichols had been content with her body image, up till then. Yet, under the stigma of this reproach, she was coerced to add a 45-minute daily run on the treadmill to her already exhausting training regimen.

The Nassar Episode: A Traumatizing Chapter

In addition to the harsh scrutiny about her weight, a horrifying saga of physical abuse was unfolding behind the scenes. Nichols was treated and molested by the infamous team doctor, Larry Nassar, who later pleaded guilty to his remorseless crimes. Nassar’s life sentence today stands as a grim reminder of his heinous act against hundreds of young gymnasts.

Nichols was the courageous first responder to Nassar’s dreadful abuse. Identifying anonymously as “Athlete A” in 2015, she played a pivotal role in bringing this scandal to light. It’s speculated that her whistleblowing might have cost her an esteemed spot on the Olympic team.

Coping Mechanism: A Hard Price to Pay

Pressures from an ambitious career and utter betrayal by a trusted doctor, spurred an unhealthy obsession in Nichols with her weight and food intake. She recollects intense scrutiny from her coaches. Mundane acts like reaching for a banana were reprimanded. The stress-induced eating disorder led to severe undernourishment, fatigue, and consequent injuries.

Emergence and Advocacy: A Beacon of Hope

Looking back, Nichols remembers her desperate attempts to conform to a form that was not hers. Today, as a personal trainer, Nichols champions body acceptance and is an ardent advocate for victims of abuse. Equipped with a master’s degree in education, she’s now also on a mission to empower survivors with her newly established Maggie Nichols Foundation.

Conclusion:

In her gripping memoir, “Unstoppable!”, Nichols boldly tears the veil off the unseen trials of relentless athletic training. Her buckled journey from the shadows of abuse and body shaming towards becoming an inspiring figure is a harsh reality check on the untold stories often hidden behind the limelight. The resilience Nichols displays is not just a testament to her indomitable spirit but also a beacon of hope for others grappling with their own battles.

Source: New York Daily News

UEFI Firmware Flaws Reside in Major Suppliers’ Offerings, Exposes Devices to Malware

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Key Takeaways:

– UEFI firmware vulnerabilities discovered in offerings of five leading suppliers.
– Termed as PixieFail, these vulnerabilities risk data centres and their users.
– Devices connected to the infected network are susceptible to malware attacks.
– The flaws are in TianoCore EDK II, impacting products from Arm Ltd., Insyde, AMI, Phoenix Technologies and Microsoft.
– The vulnerabilities lie in functions related to IPv6, exploitable in the PXE, when using IPv6.

UEFI Firmware Vulnerabilities Unearthed

Researchers have unearthed vulnerabilities in UEFI firmware found in five leading technology suppliers’ products. These vulnerabilities, dubbed ‘PixieFail’, put both private and public data centres and their users at risk.

UEFI Shortcomings

Abbreviated for Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, UEFI is a low-level firmware chain responsible for booting up most modern computers. The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the system and infect connected devices with malware. This malicious firmware runs even before the main Operating System loads, wherein UEFI infections become undetectable, needing no standard endpoint protections. This situation subsequently provides attackers with sweeping control over the infected devices.

Magnitude of Impact

The five technology giants impacted include Arm Ltd., Insyde, AMI, Phoenix Technologies, and Microsoft. The PixieFail vulnerabilities are specifically nestled within the TianoCore EDK II. This open-source implementation of UEFI specification is incorporated into the vendors’ offerings. The issue arises from flaws found in functions relative to IPv6, the next-gen Internet Protocol network address system replacing IPv4.

The Exploitation Potential

The flaws can be manipulated in what technological circles term as the PXE or Preboot Execution Environment. This exploitation occurs when PXE gets configured to rely on IPv6. The vulnerability presents a significant danger due to its ease of exploitation. Even an individual with minor access to a network such as a paying customer, a low-level employee, or an attacker who’s gained limited entry, can make the best use of these vulnerabilities.

Mitigating the Risks

To counter these shortcomings, software companies have been urged to implement higher security measures. Suppliers are encouraged to provide prompt and regular firmware updates, ensuring limited vulnerability openings. Users, on the other hand, should remain vigilant and continually update their systems to prevent falling victim to such exploitations.

Protecting Infrastructure

This discovery underscores the need for robust infrastructure security. It highlights how advancement in hacking strategies stays a step ahead and manages to infiltrate even the most modern and sophisticated technologies. As the world continues to advance technologically, consumers and technology firms alike must prioritise cybersecurity to safeguard their information and systems.

Incidents like the PixieFail vulnerabilities serve as a wake-up call for the tech world, shedding light on the need for stronger security protocols. With attackers identifying and exploiting even minor gaps, robust security systems and consistent updates remain our best line of defence against such cyber threats.

Achieving this will require continuous collaboration between cybersecurity experts, technology suppliers and end users. Only then can we hope to stay a step ahead of potential threats and protect our data and systems effectively.

Serial Stabber Still at Large in New York City

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NYPD Hunt Down Serial Stabber Linked to Multiple Attacks in Queens and Brooklyn

Key Takeaways:

– At least five unrelated, unprovoked stabbings in Queens and Brooklyn may have been committed by a single individual according to the police.
– NYPD Chief of Department, Jeffrey Maddrey, has made a public plea for any information leading to the suspect.
– A particular individual dressed in a green jacket, black pants and a surgical mask is being sought for two incidents that took place on Wednesday.
– The suspect is linked to unprovoked stabbings in the Rochdale Village area of Queens, as tweeted by NYPD Chief of Detectives, Joseph Kenny.
– Police have released surveillance footage of the suspect and are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.

Serial Stabber Still at Large

The NYPD is on high alert following a series of unprovoked stabbings in Queens and Brooklyn. According to the police, these random incidents, at least five in total, may be the work of a single individual who still remains at large.

NYPD Calls for Public Assistance

Jeffrey Maddrey, the NYPD Chief of Department took to Twitter on Wednesday, stating that the individual involved in these incidents is wanted for multiple stabbings. Maddrey urged the public to come forward with any information that can help apprehend the suspect, emphasizing the gravity of removing him from the streets.

Wednesday Stabbing Incidents

Two incidents on Wednesday morning have triggered increased efforts to locate the suspect. The police are currently in pursuit of a man dressed in a green jacket, black pants, and a surgical mask. The two incidents occurred two hours apart, raising deep concerns about public safety.

In the first incident around 7:30 a.m., a 74-year-old man and a 41-year-old man were attacked near 134th St. and Guy Brewer Blvd. in Springfield Gardens, Queens. The younger victim was stabbed in the back, and the older man was attacked in the stomach. Both were rushed to Jamaica Hospital and are expected to recover.

The second incident took place two hours later at the Myrtle Ave./Broadway train station in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, on the J/M/Z platform. The victim was transported to Woodhull Hospital in a stable condition.

Previous Stabbings and Request for Information

The random acts of violence can be traced back to a Tuesday incident where a 34-year-old woman was stabbed near 158th St. and 134th Ave, just a few blocks away from the Wednesday morning stabbing in Queens. The unknown assailant attacked the woman as she walked home, stabbing her in the side before fleeing the scene.

NYPD Chief of Detectives, Joseph Kenny, revealed through a tweet that the suspect is connected to four recent unprovoked stabbings in Rochdale Village, Queens. Following these developments, the police released surveillance footage of the suspect on Wednesday morning.

The NYPD is urging anyone with potentially helpful information to reach out to Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, assuring that all calls will be kept confidential. The public’s assistance is critical in the swift apprehension of the individual responsible for these unprovoked and alarming attacks, ensuring the safety and security of the community.

Source

Golden State Warriors Assistant Coach Hospitalized; Game Postponed

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Title: Golden State Warriors Assistant Coach Hospitalized; Game Postponed

Key Points:
* Dejan Milojević, assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, is hospitalized after an undisclosed medical emergency.
* NBA postpones the Warriors’ game against the Utah Jazz due to the incident.
* The Raptors and Pacers take the lead in trade talks for Pascal Siakam, outpacing the Warriors.
* The Warriors may target Zach LaVine in a deal that could see Klay Thompson moving to the Bulls.

Following an unreported medical emergency involving Golden State Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojević, the NBA was forced to postpone the Wednesday, January 17, road game against the Utah Jazz. The current status of its rescheduling remains unknown. Milojević, who experienced the health scare during a private team dinner, was hospitalized on Tuesday night in Salt Lake City, Utah. The team has yet to provide further updates on his condition.

Background on Dejan Milojević

Milojević, 46, joined the Warriors’ coaching staff in 2021 led by Steve Kerr. His appointment came off the back of a successful season which saw him clinch the Montenegrin League Championship early that year. The Serbian coach, a former power forward, was tasked with training the Warriors’ big men post his 15-year professional career in Europe.

Potential Trade Deals

Meanwhile, other developments in the NBA see the Golden State Warriors losing ground in trade talks. According to reporting by The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Indiana Pacers have now emerged as the frontrunners in the pursuit of Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors. The crux of the proposed deal revolves around three first-round draft picks in exchange for Siakam, with Bruce Brown Jr potentially moving to Toronto.

However, hope is not lost for the Warriors. The Raptors are purportedly keen on adding an established young player to any deal concerning Siakam. Nevertheless, willingness on the Warriors’ part to let go of Jonathan Kuminga, who is highly valued by the Raptors, seems to be a stumbling block.

The Warriors’ Desperate Times?

Speculations do not cease there. The Warriors, reported to be at a low, might look out for opportunities to acquire Zach LaVine. Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley suggests such a scenario could unfold, given LaVine’s bulky contract, injury past, and a less-than-stellar record have deterred buyers.

The proposed deal would involve the Warriors parting ways with Klay Thompson, whose expiring contract could help the Bulls offset LaVine’s hefty paycheck. However, Stephen Curry’s approval would be instrumental in any deal involving his “Splash Brother.”

The road to recovery for Milojević, potential changes in team dynamics, and uncertain trade futures continue to stir the simmering waters of the NBA. The Warriors, in particular, seem to be at crossroads, with each decision made crucial to their path forward. More updates to follow as these stories unravel.

(Source: [Heavy.com])

Increased AI Development Raises GPU Security Concerns Amid Surging Demand

As the development tempo for artificial intelligence (AI) systems heightens, companies are increasingly seeking out graphic processing unit (GPU) chips. These chips offer the computing power required to operate large language models (LLMs) and process enormous amounts of data quickly. The explosive growth in video games and AI technologies has driven the demand for GPUs to an all-time high. This surge led chip manufacturers to boost their production.

Key Takeaways:

– Demand for graphic processing unit (GPU) chips skyrockets due to advancements in artificial intelligence.
– Security vulnerabilities identified in multiple brands of GPUs, including Apple, Qualcomm, and AMD.
– GPUs, designed for raw power, lack the data protection emphasized in central processing units (CPUs).
– Researchers from New York-based firm Trail of Bits raise concerns over these vulnerabilities.

Rising Security Concerns in GPU Technology

However, amidst the rush for acceleration and increased processing power, a vulnerability lurks in the heart of GPUs. Today, researchers are drawing attention to susceptibilities within several popular GPU brands, such as Apple, Qualcomm, and AMD. These vulnerabilities may grant an attacker access to steal considerable data from a GPU’s memory.

For years, the silicon industry has dedicated significant resources to fortifying the security of central processing units (CPUs). CPUs are designed not to leak memory data, even focusing on speed optimization. But, GPUs, primarily designed for raw graphic processing power, haven’t been architected with the same emphasis on data privacy.

AI Expansion Expose GPU Vulnerabilities

The expansion of generative AI and myriad machine learning applications enhances the uses of these chips. As a result, security researchers from the New York-based firm Trail of Bits are concerned that these vulnerabilities within GPUs are becoming an increasing concern.

The design of GPUs prioritizes rapid graphics processing power. And as such, data privacy often takes a backseat in their architecture. This lack of prioritization on data privacy presents a serious concern that’s lately been brought to the fore by machine learning and AI.

When built to optimize speed, CPUs are designed to ensure they do not leak memory data, having gained the silicon industry’s considerable investment over the years to bolster their security. But GPUs, architected with brute power in mind for processing graphics, haven’t prioritized data privacy in the same way.

The Future of GPU Security

As advancements in artificial intelligence proliferate, their expanding implications and uses further highlight the urgent need to address these GPU vulnerabilities. Researchers are particularly concerned about the prospect of attackers stealing extensive data from the memory of GPUs, given that various mainstream GPUs have been flagged as vulnerable.

With the demand for GPUs projected to grow in the coming years, manufacturers must take a keen interest in the security of these vital chips. It’s becoming increasingly clear that as the AI landscape evolves, so too must the security of the devices that power it.

As technology continues to evolve and grow, it becomes crucial that companies focusing on the development of AI also prioritize the security of the systems they leverage, mainly GPUs. Ignoring security considerations in their GPU usage could lead to serious data breaches and other vulnerabilities. Therefore, the industry must balance its pursuit of pushing the boundaries of innovation with the responsibility of ensuring the security of its systems.

In conclusion, AI’s future and the increasing demand for GPUs rest significantly on the industry’s ability to address these vulnerabilities. Researchers are working hard to identify and rectify these issues, but the responsibility does not fall squarely on their shoulders. Manufacturers and AI developers must also step up and acknowledge the importance of data privacy in their designs and applications. The secure future of AI and GPUs is in their hands.

Source: [Arstechnica]

GOP Debates Cancelled as Trump and Haley Decline Participation

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The Political Landscape Shifts

Two Republican presidential debates have been scrapped after both former president Donald Trump and Nikki Haley externalized their refusal to participate. This development comes just before next week’s highly anticipated New Hampshire primary election.

Key Takeaways:

– ABC and CNN cancel their scheduled debates ahead of the New Hampshire primary.
– Candidates Nikki Haley and Donald Trump refuse to participate.
– Trump continues to lead in the polls with 50% backing from potential GOP primary voters.
– Despite this setback, Haley is targeting New Hampshire for a potential upset.
– Ron DeSantis shifts campaign staff to South Carolina amid the debates fallout.

Interestingly enough, both ABC and CNN, the media houses organizing the debates, were compelled to cancel their plans. This drastic decision followed Haley’s bold move to only take part if her counterpart Trump did, an agreement the ex-president has declined. Consequently, this sudden turn of events would have left Ron DeSantis as the sole participant on the stage.

Trials and Tribulations in New Hampshire

This somewhat surprising drama parallels Haley’s earnest attempts to gain footing on Trump in the Granite State. The former president recently recorded an emphatic win during the Iowa caucus on Monday, a victory bolstering his dominant stance.

Contrarily, a recent tracking poll projected a significant gap between the two key players. The survey released on Wednesday showcased Trump holding a commanding 50% support from potential GOP primary voters. Meanwhile, Haley trailed behind with 34%, leaving DeSantis at the bottom with a mere 5%.

The Road Ahead

Despite the uphill battle, Haley continues to strategize, with her sights set on New Hampshire. Known for its varied electorate, including moderate and independent-leaning voters, it might prove pivotal for her campaign. Interestingly enough, the primary allows involvement from independents and Democrats, opening a window of opportunity for Haley to challenge Trump.

Adding yet another layer to the charged political climate, the former president faced a defamation trial in New York on the same day. On the flip side, Haley was hard at work, earnestly campaigning in the state with popular Governor Chris Sununu to put pressure on her formidable opponent.

The Final Word

Looking towards the future, Trump is aiming to campaign in New Hampshire. Despite his personal commitments, including a funeral for Melania’s mother, his efforts indicate strong intent to win the upcoming primary. On the other hand, DeSantis seems to be refocusing his resources, moving most of his campaign staff to South Carolina.

Should Trump confirm victory in New Hampshire, he could consolidate his stance as the GOP’s favourite for the third consecutive time. Yet, even in the face of sizeable odds, Haley remains optimistic, envisioning an upset victory that could shift the narrative and challenge Trump’s perceived invincibility ahead of the South Carolina primary on February 24.

Philadelphia Standoff Resulting in Elderly Man’s Death Sparks Investigation

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An elderly Philadelphia man lost his life following a tense standoff and shootout with police. According to local reports from WCAU, the man has yet to be identified; officials have given no confirmation on whether the man’s death resulted from police gunfire.

Key Takeaways:
– An elderly Philadelphia man was found dead after a police shootout on Wednesday morning.
– The man, believed to be in his 70s, had begun a standoff with the police after a crash on Roosevelt Boulevard.
– No police officers were injured in the encounter.
– It is unclear who dealt the fatal blow due to the nature of the shootout.

An Unexpected Turn of Events

The incident began with a seemingly innocuous event. On Roosevelt Boulevard in Northeast Philadelphia, a patrol officer noted a pickup truck that appeared to have crashed. The officer approached the truck and offered assistance, only to be rebuffed, reports indicated. The man’s reaction, broadcasted by the local CBS affiliate KYW, seemed to be a precursor to what was about to unfold.

Almost immediately after the officer returned to his patrol car, a hail of gunshots pierced the silent morning. The officer swiftly took cover while radioing for backup. As additional officers converged on the scene, a standoff with the elderly man commenced.

Tension Escalates

During the standoff, the man began hurling items from his truck. Despite the palpable tension, no officer initiated gunfire. This information was divulged by officials, imparting a sense of urgency to identify the facts of this event.

According to WTXF, the local Fox affiliate, police eventually summoned a SWAT team due to the escalating situation. As the SWAT team arrived, the man reportedly opened fire, prompting the officers to return fire.

In the aftermath of the shootout, police discovered the man’s lifeless body inside the truck. Further investigations unveiled a firearm within the vehicle. Thankfully, no police officers sustained injuries in the confrontation, a stark contrast to the tragic outcome for the unidentified man.

Uncertainty Surrounds the Incident

The specific circumstances leading to the Philadelphia man’s death remain murky. Speaking during a Wednesday press conference, Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore confessed, “We don’t know, as far as who struck who.”

Though police are carefully piecing together the events that unfolded, some valuable insights are emerging from witnesses to the incident. One such witness, Evan Crookham, recounted his experience to WCAU, describing the scene as “like a small warzone.” Estimates suggest that the standoff, coupled with the subsequent shootout, spanned the better part of 20 minutes.

An Overarching Sense of Tragedy

The unfortunate incident further emphasizes the critical need for effective dialogue between the police and the public. As various law enforcement departments assess procedures in light of events such as this, the public is left to wonder what could have been different. Amid relentless search for answers, the story serves as a reminder that every interaction, no matter how minor, can suddenly escalate, culminating in unimaginable tragedy.

Source: NY Daily News

Jerry Jones Emphasizes Urgency for Cowboys Team Post-Packers Blowout

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Key Takeaways:
– Jerry Jones lashes out at the Dallas Cowboys after surprising loss to the Green Bay Packers.
– Jones expresses urgency for an immediate win, casting doubt over Coach Mike McCarthy’s future.
– Despite strong support from Cowboys players, Jones remains undecided over McCarthy’s place in the team.

Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, didn’t mince his words after his team’s shocking defeat by the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Wild Card. The game, which ended in a 48-32 blowout, ranks as the most surprising one in his career. According to cornerback Jourdan Lewis, Jones was clear in his urgent demand to the players: “We got to win.”

Message After Defeat: “We Got To Win”

Having claimed the NFC East Division championship in 2023 with a 12-5 finish, the Cowboys had secured the No. 2 seed in the postseason. Nevertheless, they failed to reach the NFC Championship Game for the 29th consecutive season. In the locker room, Lewis quoted Jones emphasizing, “This is the Dallas Cowboys,” suggesting the team’s legacy should push them to demand more from themselves.

Jones’ eagerness for a win is underscored by the Cowboys’ history. Since purchasing the team in 1989, Jones oversaw three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s. However, the team has struggled to replicate that level of postseason dominance. Despite Coach Mike McCarthy leading the Cowboys to three consecutive 12-win seasons, Dallas only managed one playoff victory over this period.

McCarthy’s Future with the Cowboys in Question

The Cowboys’ postseason exit and Jones’ insistence on making a strong Super Bowl run now cast an uncertain cloud over McCarthy’s future with the team. Even though the players rallied behind their 60 year old head coach, the final decision hinges on Jones.

Recognizing McCarthy’s contributions, KaVontae Turpin, Cowboys special teamer, said, “Mike McCarthy, that’s my guy man. He gave me an opportunity… I just got mad respect for Mike man.”

In the three seasons since his hiring in 2020, McCarthy has led the Cowboys to three playoff berths and boasts a commendable 42-25 record. Lewis noted the challenges associated with leading the team and expressed his hope for McCarthy’s return.

Jones’ Silence Sends mixed Signals

Despite having made it clear he wants to win and wants urgency from his team, Jones has yet to make a decision on McCarthy’s future. When questioned by reporters after the game, Jones only said, “I want to give Green Bay a lot of compliments and credit.”

If McCarthy doesn’t return, the Cowboys have multiple high-profile coaching options to consider. Bill Belichick, Jim Harbaugh, Mike Vrabel, and Dan Quin, the Cowboys defensive coordinator, are some of the most sought-after football coaches this hiring cycle.

Both Jones’ stern words to his team and his silence on McCarthy’s future speak volumes. What remains to be seen is how these will impact the dynamics of the team moving forward. Every decision now will have a huge influence on the Cowboys’ performance in the next season and beyond.

Knicks Eyeing $22M Bruce Brown Under Latest Pascal Siakam Trade

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The recently confirmed Pascal Siakam trade to Indiana Pacers has stirred up interest in the New York Knicks camp for Bruce Brown. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Toronto Raptors are set to receive Brown, three first-round picks, and Jordan Nwora. This trade also includes the New Orleans Pelicans who will send Kira Lewis to the Raptors, allowing them to stay within the luxury tax threshold.

Key Takeaways:

– Toronto Raptors confirmed the Pascal Siakam trade to Indiana Pacers, creating interest from the New York Knicks for Bruce Brown.
– The Raptors will receive Bruce Brown, three first-round picks, and Jordan Nwora from the Pacers.
– Early in the offseason, the Knicks had shown interest in Brown, who signed with Indiana. Still, a possible future trade is not ruled out.
– Knick’s Coach, Tom Thibodeau, is particularly fond of players with Brown’s caliber.
– According to sources, the Knicks’ long-term plan includes adding a star, possibly via a trade this offseason.

Knicks Show Interest in Bruce Brown

The Raptors’ acquisition of Brown has alerted the Knicks. Fred Katz of The Athletic reported that in the past, the Knicks showed interest in Brown during the free agency period. The Knicks could seize this opportunity to bring onboard the highly regarded wing defender.

“Bruce Brown caught the attention of the Knicks early in the offseason. Despite eventually signing with Indiana, the interest from New York was undeniable. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s fondness for players of Brown’s caliber could prompt the Knicks to make a move”, revealed Steve Popper of Newsday Sports.

However, it remains uncertain if the Knicks will place a bet on another defense-heavy player or trade for a scorer to bolster their bench power.

Potential Trade Candidates for the Knicks

Fred Katz had previously listed nine potential trade candidates for the Knicks, and Brown was among them. Some of the potential trades suggested by Katz were Malcolm Brogdon of the Portland Trail Blazers, Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz, Terry Rozier from the Charlotte Hornets, Indiana Pacers’ Bruce Brown and T.J. McConnell, Atlanta Hawks’ Bogdan Bogdanović, Caris LeVert from the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Tim Hardaway Jr of the Dallas Mavericks.

Long-term Plans for the Knicks

Katz also hinted at the Knicks long-term plan, which is to add a star player. Though the Knicks are hopeful for a trade featuring someone on a tradeable contract, they don’t expect this to happen before the deadline. Should a star player become available, they’ll undoubtedly be involved in the negotiation.

“The ideal situation for the Knicks this offseason is to add a star. But until then, they could trade for a player on a tradeable contract, as Indiana did with Brown,” Katz said.

According to league sources, the Knicks are likely to trade for a player with a salary in the teens or low $20 million to attract a franchise dealing away a star in June or July.

In light of the recent Anunoby trade, Quentin Grimes is the only young player the Knicks could potentially include in a deadline deal. If such a trade happens, they’d want someone on a tradeable contract—preferably a player with a salary in the teens or low $20 million—that would be attractive in exchange.

As the Pascal Siakam trade stirs up more attention and possibilities for changes, the Knicks are steadily keeping an eye on potential deals. While their eyes are on the prize—landing a star player—it’s only a matter of timing before they make the bold move. Until then, everyone is waiting with bated breath. One thing is for certain; the Pascal Siakam trade has revived much speculations.

The Heart of Rock and Roll: A Triumphant Return for Corey Cott

Key Takeaways:

– Hallmark actor Corey Cott will co-star with theater professional McKenzie Kurtz in the Broadway production “The Heart of Rock and Roll.”
– The production includes songs by the famous 80’s band Huey Lewis & the News.
– Corey Cott returns to Broadway after gaining fame in multiple TV series and Hallmark movies.
– Jonathan Bennett, another Hallmark star, is also set to appear on Broadway in “Spamalot.”

Confirmed by Broadway World, Corey Cott, renowned for his role in the romantic comedy “Making Waves” under Hallmark’s banner, is all set to star in a Broadway production. He will share the stage with McKenzie Kurtz, an experienced theater actor. The duo will lead the Broadway musical “The Heart of Rock and Roll”. The production has a flavor of the 80s manifested by the inclusion of iconic songs from the famous rock band, Huey Lewis & the News.

When the production lifts its curtains on March 29, it will mark Cott’s triumphant return to the Broadway stage. Turning back pages, we learn from Playbill that Cott began his Broadway journey in 2012 with “Newsies,” a Disney production. In 2015, he played Gaston Lachailles in the revival of “Gigi”. He then bagged a lead role as Donny Novitski in the musical “Bandstand” in 2017.

Moving from Broadway to the small screen, Cott received guest roles in many popular series like “Law & Order”. His significant contributions include his appearance in the 2020 FOX series “Filthy Rich” and the Hallmark movie “Butlers in Love”, aired in 2022.

Recently, on January 16, Cott announced his Broadway return on Instagram in ecstatic words. His co-star, Kurtz, also has Broadway origins, making her debut in Disney’s production, “Frozen”. Currently, she is playing Glinda in the Broadway version of “Wicked”.

Huey Lewis’ Heartwarming Endorsement

Huey Lewis, the eminent musician whom the Broadway production pays homage to, conveyed his excitement and gratification regarding the cast. Lewis has not performed since he lost the hearing in his left ear in 2017. Although he confessed that his hearing loss led him into a deep depression, watching the new Broadway show with Cott and Kurtz has been a delight for the rock star.

Hallmark’s Jonathan Bennett’s Broadway Debut

Interestingly, when “The Heart of Rock and Roll” premieres at the James Earl Jones Theatre in March, Cott will be in the vicinity of St. James Theater. This theater will be hosting Jonathan Bennett, another Hallmark star making his Broadway debut in “Spamalot” on January 23.

Early this month, Bennett announced his news ecstatically, declaring that being on Broadway was his lifelong dream. He will play Sir Robin in the Monty Python comedy until April 21.

Bennett took to Instagram on January 13 to share an update from the rehearsals. Full of praise for the production team, he expressed profound gratitude for the warm welcome he received.

Conclusion

The upcoming Broadway crossovers featuring Hallmark’s stars, Corey Cott in “The Heart of Rock and Roll” and Jonathan Bennett in “Spamalot”, are exciting news for fans. Their moves from the small screen to the big stage will undoubtedly bring excitement to theater-goers and provide fresh challenges for the actors.