Recent content from Michael Rand
Columnist's behavior marred Caitlin Clark's news conference
Caitlin Clark was introduced to the Indianapolis media Wednesday. But the inappropriate behavior of a local columnist, who should have known better, ended up being the story of the day.
Can things get better for the Wild after a disappointing season?
A team with playoff aspirations stumbled at the start and couldn't fully regroup. Hockey writer Sarah McLellan and host Michael Rand discuss why. Also, Twins talk and an awkward Caitlin Clark moment.
A Vikings-New England trade? Three thoughts on the No. 3 overall pick
The Vikings need a quarterback and every signal they have suggests they intend to choose one very high in next week's draft. The Patriots are in a similar situation, but there are reasons why a deal could be a good fit.
Vikings-New England trade? Patriots insider on that possibility.
Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston joined host Michael Rand for a look at next week's draft. The Patriots, like the Vikings, need a quarterback. But would New England trade the No. 3 pick?
Twins not getting nearly enough from second-year players
Last year's Twins surge was fueled in large part by rookies making a huge impact. The lack of production from many of those players is a significant part of their problem so far this season.
How Chris Finch went from Division III basketball to top NBA coach
The co-author of the new book, "Pipeline to the Pros: How D3, Small-College Nobodies Rose to Rule the NBA," joined Michael Rand on the podcast to talk about Finch's route to the Timberwolves.
Worrying about Wolves-Suns matchup not just usual Minnesota pessimism
Even in the midst of a wonderful regular season, the Wolves have been staring at the likelihood of a tough first-round playoff series. Fans have been worrying about it for months — and they weren't wrong.
Patrick Reusse on Wolves playoffs, Twins injuries, WNBA draft
Will a stellar Timberwolves season end with a first-round playoff exit? Will Twins players ever stop getting hurt? Will the Lynx get the player they want in the draft? So many questions for Reusse and host Michael Rand.
'Walkaway prices?' Translating what Adofo-Mensah told the press.
The biggest takeaway: The Vikings are trying to create whatever advantages they can in a draft where they need a quarterback and could be vulnerable to teams forcing them to overpay.
What can the Vikings do to create some draft leverage?
Host Michael Rand examines the biggest takeaways from Kwesi Adofo-Mensah's pre-draft news conference. Also, Jon Marthaler on a Loons problem and Jim Souhan from The Masters.
Wolves playoff run: Four things that will make a major impact
There's plenty of chatter about Minnesota's potential first-round opponent, and rightfully so. But here are some factors that will shape the Wolves' future regardless of who they play.
Frozen Four and Gophers hockey transfer portal; Wolves playoff scenarios
On Thursday's Daily Delivery podcast, Randy Johnson joined host Michael Rand to talk about the Frozen Four at Xcel Energy Center and the changing college hockey landscape. Plus Rand broke down the Wolves' loss to the Nuggets.
What are the three worst-case scenarios for Vikings in the NFL draft?
What could possibly go wrong? A day after presenting the best-case scenarios for the quarterback-needy Vikings, let's take a look at the other side of that equation.
Jim Souhan from The Masters -- and on the Twins' struggles
Columnist Jim Souhan joins host Michael Rand from The Masters for a preview. They also talk about the struggling Twins and what their 3-6 start means.
What are the three best-case scenarios for Vikings in NFL draft?
The Vikings have more options by already adding the No. 23 overall pick in a trade to go with their own No. 11 pick. But they are dependent on the moves of other teams.
Why has the Twins offense sputtered this season?
Host Michael Rand goes into a list of reasons the Twins are averaging fewer than three runs per game. He also talked about Vikings draft options with football writer Andrew Krammer.
Ending of Iowa vs. UConn game was the perfect basketball controversy
The fact that nobody wants the game decided by a foul doesn't trump the fact that the play was called correctly, even it may not have appeared that way at first.
Patrick Reusse on Twins struggles, that foul call and the Wolves
Host Michael Rand and Reusse hit the highs and lows of an interesting sports weekend, including a look at the controversial foul at the end of the Iowa-UConn game.
Angel Reese is in the WNBA draft. Could she end up with the Lynx?
The consensus among WNBA experts is that controversial LSU star Angel Reese is a mid-first round pick in this month's draft. Minnesota has the seventh pick in the 12-team league. Is this a good match?
A huge night for women's basketball; Phil Miller on the Twins
The NCAA women's basketball semifinals are Friday night, and a TV record could be set for Iowa's game against UConn. Also on Friday's Daily Delivery podcast, Phil Miller talks about the Twins' home opener and 3-3 start.
Daily Delivery podcast: Twins, Wolves ease concerns — and a very unique 'Big Ten power ranking'
Victories by the Twins and Timberwolves on Wednesday eased some concerns about those teams. Also, Michael Rand and outdoors writer Tony Kennedy some novel outdoors coverage.
Diggs trade: Vikings fans have been there, watched that once before
Stefon Diggs has been traded from a successful team for the second time in his career. The ending in Buffalo is very similar to how it ended in Minnesota.
What should Vikings do if price to move up in the draft is too steep?
A recent mock draft suggested the Vikings would trade No. 11, No. 23 and next year's first round pick to move up to No. 5 and select Michigan's J.J. McCarthy. Is that too much to get 'the quarterback of the future?'
Chip Scoggins on the U and its transfer portal predicament
The columnist joins Michael Rand to look at what's going on with the impact of the portal and NIL on the Gophers men's basketball team. Plus a look at Friday's Paige Bueckers vs. Caitlin Clark women's Final Four semifinal.
Women's basketball shining while men's game has never been worse
One could easily make the argument that by this stage of both NCAA tournaments, the women's version qualifies as appointment viewing over the men's.
Reusse on Bueckers, Clark and the Timberwolves nasty ownership fight
Columnist Patrick Reusse and host Michael Rand went all-in on the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament — but left time for the Timberwolves big story, too.
As Wolves sale collapses, a reminder that Vegas move was possible
Among the many twists and turns in a day of Timberwolves ownership drama was a quote revealed from Glen Taylor to Star Tribune columnist Patrick Reusse.
Unpacking the Wolves ownership drama + Gophers rally, costly Twins win
On Friday's Daily Delivery, Michael Rand take stock of a wild day in Minnesota sports from the Timberwolves sale falling through to a NCAA win for the Gophers and a newsy Opening Day for the Twins.
Five things to know from a bonkers Thursday in Minnesota sports
The Timberwolves sale fell through. The Gophers are being hit by the transfer portal. It's Opening Day for the Twins, the Gophers men's hockey team plays in the NCAA tournament and Drake Maye has his Pro Day. Is that enough for you?
Inside the Vikings' pre-draft process; Wolves reach important milestone
On Thursday's Daily Delivery podcast, host Michael Rand and Vikings beat writer Ben Goessling talked about the long hours Kevin O'Connell will be logging in the next month. Plus the Wolves reached 50 victories.
Podcast: Can the Twins build on their 2023 success this season?
Daily Delivery podcast host Michael Rand is joined by Star Tribune Twins beat writer Bobby Nightengale Jr. as they preview the 2024 Twins season
Once again, Vikings searching for quality and stability in a new kicker
After three functional but overall below average years with the Vikings, Greg Joseph signed with the Packers. The Vikings have proved they can do worse than Joseph, but they certainly can do better.
Big change for Vikings; Wolves learning to play without Towns
On Wednesday's Part I of the Daily Delivery podcast, host Michael Rand talks about kicker Greg Joseph signing with the Packers and chats with Star Tribune Timberwolves beat writer Chris Hine.
How much for a ticket to watch college hockey? How about $5,719.
Some of college hockey's most popular teams — including national attendance leader North Dakota — were sent to the smallest arena picked for the NCAA regionals. And the secondary market has some wild prices as a result.
Frozen Four topics: Gophers chances, UND hockey tickets are HOW much?
College hockey writer Randy Johnson on the U's chances in this weekend's NCAA regional and host Michael Rand on the eye-popping cost to watch North Dakota. Also, Justin Jefferson role in the Vikings QB choices.
With Timberwolves, sideshows haven't become the main attraction
Plenty of things could have derailed momentum and distracted Timberwolves fans from the on-court product. But the team has kept on winning through a tumultuous month.
Twins, Ohtani, basketball, college hockey. Reusse dishes on it all.
Patrick Reusse joined host Michael Rand on the podcast in a conversation befitting the packed March schedule — everything from MLB to three levels of basketball.
Injuries and depth. A look at the Twins from Florida with Phil Miller
Star Tribune Twins beat writer Phil Miller joins host Michael Rand on the podcast to talk about the impact of the team's sudden rash of injuries. Rand also looks at what it would cost for the Vikings to move up in the draft.
Former U player, Wolves assistant Bickerstaff on threats from gamblers
Cavaliers head coach Bernie Bickerstaff revealed he received threats from gamblers that he reported to the NBA. He also talked about the increasing tension sports betting becomes more widespread.
A conversation about problem gambling in Minnesota
More than 250,000 Minnesotans are estimated to have a gambling problem. Susan Sheridan Tucker, Executive Director of the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling, joins the podcast to talk about it.
It's mock draft season. Here are 5 Vikings takeaways from a big one
The Vikings have created a sense of urgency and intrigue about next month's draft that's greater than in any year in recent memory because of how the early stages of free agency played out.
Big wins for Wild and Gophers, a Caitlin Clark prediction and the Vikings draft . . .
It's a combo platter on the podcast that includes host Michael Rand on the Gophers and Wild, basketball writer Kent Youngblood on the NCAA women's tournament and mock draft season getting into gear.
Hey, Twins! You've got to stop trading for damaged pitchers.
The Twins just announced that recently acquired starter Anthony DeSclafani will likely be out for the season. When will the team stop betting on pitchers with injury histories?
Basketball Tuesday: That Edwards dunk; Marcus Fuller helps pick your bracket
Anthony Edwards even wowed himself with his dunk in the Wolves win over Utah. Host Michael Rand talks about that and picks the brain of college basketball writer Marcus Fuller.
Why was it so important for Vikings to trade for another 1st-round pick?
The Vikings' swap with the Houston Texans for the No. 23 pick in next month's NFL draft seemed to come at a strange time last week. But really, the timing was vital.
Patrick Reusse on the Vikings: Rare praise after free agent moves
Dumping Kirk Cousins sat well with columnist Patrick Reusse. He talked about that with host Michael Rand, as well as the downward spiral of Gophers basketball that began 25 years ago.
Vikings work hard to show 'alignment'; Twins spring training news with Bobby Nightengale
On Friday's Daily Delivery podcast, host Michael Rand took note of things said by Vikings decisionmakers and visited about the Twins with Star Tribune beat writer Bobby Nightengale.
In moving on, Cousins talks about what was missing in Minnesota
Yes, Cousins biggest ally in Minnesota was head coach Kevin O'Connell. But something was missing that sounds like one of the things that led him to Atlanta.
Takeaways from Kirk Cousins; inside the NIL revolution in college sports
Speaking to reporters in Atlanta on Wednesday evening, former Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins brought closure to his time in Minnesota. Host Michael Rand has key quotes. Plus a long and interesting discussion about Name, Image and Likeness.
Turning back time, would Cousins and Vikings still pick each other?
Exactly six years ago, the Vikings reached an agreement to sign Kirk Cousins to a three-year, fully guaranteed $84 million deal. Knowing how things played out, would they still make the same choice?
Chip Scoggins on Cousins; Wolves get huge comeback victory
Host Michael Rand was as surprised as many of you to see the Wolves pivot from a 22-point second-quarter deficit into an 18-point win over the Clippers. Plus, Scoggins on Kirk Cousins and the QBs ahead.
Five things to know about a whirlwind 24 hours for the Vikings
If the Vikings end up going 5-12 because Sam Darnold is bad and a rookie quarterback needs more seasoning, that won't be the worst thing. And what about if things go well?
So much drama with the Vikings. A look back and at what's to come.
It was a long day of drama Monday for the Vikings, and it started right up again Tuesday. What does it all mean? Plus Kent Youngblood on Big Ten women's basketball and the 2024 Lynx.
Kirk Cousins free agency news is all about leverage
Even before the "legal tampering" period opened Monday, there were small pieces of information that arguably benefitted or hurt certain teams -- or even Kirk Cousins himself.
Patrick Reusse on Kirk Cousins, Caitlin Clark and Lou Nanne
Star Tribune columnist Patrick Reusse joined host Michael Rand on Monday's Daily Delivery podcast ahead of big expected news on Kirk Cousins and after a big weekend of tournaments in the Twin Cities.
Caitlin Clark, Anthony Edwards and the power of our stars
We are naturally drawn toward the phenomenal, which is the easiest way of understanding the lure of players like Caitlin Clark and Anthony Edwards.
Can the end of this year raise U men's basketball to new heights?
College basketball writer Marcus Fuller joined host Michael Rand on Friday's Daily Delivery podcast to talk about Ben Johnson's team, what's left to play for this season and what lies ahead.
McDaniels has to step up for Wolves, with or without a healthy Towns
Jaden McDaniels needs to be more consistent on offense if the Timberwolves are going to fix their late game issues — which might be only more glaring with Karl-Anthony Towns sidelined.
Karl-Anthony Towns injury adds to growing list of Timberwolves questions
Even before we knew that Wolves All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns would miss time with a knee injury, the Timberwolves' late-game offensive woes were a concern. Chris Hine and Michael Rand talked about that on Thursday's Daily Delivery podcast.
Outcome of Cousins decision to determine who feels pressure with Vikings
In one week, we will know whether Kirk Cousins is staying with the Vikings or leaving in free agency. How that plays out will add pressure to either GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah or head coach Kevin O'Connell.
Who could be gone from the Wild at Friday's trade deadline?
With the Wild hanging onto the fringes of the playoff race but probably starting to look toward the future, which players are candidates to move before the week is over?
Donaldson retires, reminding us of good and bad times
When healthy, Josh Donaldson was productive with the Twins. But his brashness didn't sit well among members of the organization, some of whom were relieved when he was traded after two seasons.
What will Vikings do at quarterback? Two teams to watch for clues.
Kirk Cousins is set to be a free agent next week. If Atlanta goes all in on signing him, would the Vikings pivot to Russell Wilson, who is no longer wanted by Denver?
Falcons writer: Cousins is Atlanta's top quarterback target
A veteran writer who covers the Falcons came away from the NFL scouting combine convinced that the team will make Kirk Cousins its No. 1 QB option if he reaches free agency.
10 things Minnesota sports fans need to pay attention to this week
It's March. Things are getting busy. You might be overwhelmed as a sports fan. But if your attention feels all over the place, here are the things to zero in on right now.
Classic Reusse hits Wolves, Twins, Loons, the U . . . and rips some kids
Patrick Reusse had a lot on his mind during his weekly visit to the Daily Delivery. Some of it covers familiar subjects and some covers newer territory for the veteran columnist.
The Vikings' running game has been dismal, and they need to fix it
Regardless of who the team's quarterback is in 2024 — but especially if it's a rookie —- better production from running backs is a must-have.
Keep your eyes on this rookie QB if you're a Vikings fan
Vikings writer Andrew Krammer joins host Michael Rand for a long look at quarterbacks. Where does Kirk Cousins stand? And who are the Vikings really looking at during the NFL combine?
Clark's brilliance obscures harsh reality about U women's hoops
Yes, Caitlin Clark brought greatness to the Barn. But even with the Gophers missing two key players, there should be serious concern about a 48-point loss to Iowa in a season that has quickly spiraled downward.
The brilliance of Caitlin Clark; an urgent time for the Wild
Host Michael Rand marveled at Iowa' record-breaking women's basketball star Caitlin Clark and talked to Star Tribune writer Randy Johnson about several local hockey teams.
New Vikings QB coach painful reminder of most frustrating year
Josh McCown threw the pass that kept Minnesota out of the 2003 playoffs. Vikings fans have felt more heartbreak before and after that game. But never more frustration.
If the Vikings wanted Cousins, they've had many chances
Daily Delivery: The Vikings are saying they want Kirk Cousins back, which probably means a multi-year deal with guaranteed money. Something is different than it was a year ago. Also, baseball writer Phil Miller talks about Byron Buxton.
Low ceiling, high floor: How the Vikings have become the Wild
Kirk Cousins was supposed to be the final piece of a puzzle to finally win a Super Bowl for the Vikings. Instead his six years have been marked by consistent respectability, like the Wild of a few years back.
Three ways to see the Twins trade (and Chip Scoggins pays a visit)
Host Michael Rand unpacks Monday's Twins trade for Manuel Margot. Then he talks to columnist Chip Scoggins about a number of things -- including a big week for the Vikings and Caitlin Clark coming to town.
How is it possible that Wolves fans are still complaining?
One of the most moribund franchises in American sports history is suddenly playing phenomenal basketball. That doesn't mean Timberwolves fans are suddenly satisfied.
