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    Best Nest thermostat
    • February 26, 2025

    Which Nest thermostat is best?

    Smart thermostats are one of the best ways to keep your home at a comfortable temperature while simultaneously saving money on your energy bill every month. Without a doubt, Google Nest devices lead the pack when it comes to overall functionality, and many would say aesthetics as well.

    If looking for the most advanced functionality and the highest level of compatibility with various HVAC units, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Generation should be your go-to choice. It offers machine learning and boasts the company’s Farsight feature that automatically lights up when it detects you in the room. Also, it comes in several metallic finishes that give it a sleek look.

    What to know before you buy a Nest thermostat

    Nest thermostats can save you money

    Many people buy Nest thermostats simply for their convenience. They integrate with Alexa for voice control and also operate remotely via the associated application. There is another excellent reason for buying a Nest thermostat, though, and that is they can save you money.

    Based on reports published by Google, installing a Nest thermostat in the home saves consumers an average of 15% on their cooling bills and 10-12% on their heating bills. If you prefer to get your information from unbiased third parties, you’ll be interested to learn that many actual users say they save from $10-$20 a month.

    sensors

    Nest thermostats accomplish this in several ways, including scheduling, machine learning, HVAC monitoring and geofencing. You can also improve your Nest’s ability to save you money by adding sensors in different rooms of your home.

    Energy usage reports

    Nests tracks your HVAC system’s energy use and produce a monthly report. The report shows metrics, including how much the system runs, how energy use compares month-to-month, the impact of weather on energy use and more. With this information, you’ll be more aware of your energy usage, so it will be easier to make informed decisions that can save you additional money on your heating and cooling bills.

    Compatibility

    Nest thermostats are compatible with most HVAC systems, but not all. The few systems that are not compatible include proprietary and high-voltage systems, millivolt heaters, microcontroller systems that lack a C-wire and solid-fuel systems. They may also not work with systems that use wired remote sensors. A complete list of compatible systems is available on the company’s support website.

    Features to look for in a Nest thermostat

    Machine learning

    The Nest Learning and Nest E models have a machine learning feature that will automatically create a custom schedule based on your usage habits. Use the associated app to adjust the temperature as needed. Over time, the thermostat learns household preferences, removing the need for manual adjustments. This feature is the default setting, but you can turn it off.

    Scheduling

    The basic Nest Thermostat, the company’s most affordable model, doesn’t have machine learning. However, it can still save you money through the use of its scheduling feature. During the initial setup, it prompts the user to set a heating and cooling schedule manually. Alternatively, users can use the Quick Schedule feature, which creates a program based on the national average’s most efficient schedule.

    Display

    Your Nest thermostat may have a frosted mirror display that blends in with the outer ring or a high-resolution color display, depending on your chosen model. Both feature easy-to-read digits, but the high-resolution color display also boasts Farsight, which allows it to automatically light up and show the time, current temperature, target temperature and weather when it detects you across the room.

    Housing color and material

    Most nest thermostats come in several colors so that you can match them to the decor of your home. Depending on the model you choose, it may have a metal ring around the exterior or an all-plastic housing.

    How much does a Nest thermostat cost?

    Nest thermostats cost $100-$250, but you can find more expensive packages bundled with up to three remote sensors.

    Nest thermostat FAQ

    Are Nest thermostats difficult to install?

    A. Most people will find the Nest thermostat relatively easy to install in 30 minutes or less as long as you already have all of the existing wiring. If you need to install new wiring and aren’t familiar with electrical work, it may be better to hire a professional.

    Do Nest thermostats work without Wi-Fi?

    A. A Nest thermostat can function without an internet connection, but functionality is limited to the programmable, nonsmart thermostat.

    What is the best Nest thermostat to buy?

    Top Nest thermostat

    Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Generation

    Google Nest Learning Thermostat 4th Generation

    What you need to know: Google’s most advanced model, the Nest Learning 4th Generation, includes tons of features that save money without sacrificing comfort.

    What you’ll love: It has a premium look with its bright, high-resolution display and a metallic ring available in several finishes. Also, it offers the Farsight feature so you can easily see the current temperature and other pertinent information from across the room.

    What you should consider: It tends to stand out noticeably on a wall rather than blend in with it.

    Top Nest thermostat for the money

    Google Nest Thermostat

    Google Nest Thermostat

    What you need to know: The affordable price of the basic Nest Thermostat makes it a good choice for those on a tight budget who still want to give their HVAC smart functionality.

    What you’ll love: You can manually program it with a custom schedule that fits your lifestyle, and the mirrored display gives it a discreet look that blends into walls well.

    What you should consider: It isn’t compatible with as many HVAC systems as other models.

    Worth checking out

    Google Nest Thermostat E

    Google Nest Thermostat E

    What you need to know: Other than Farsight, The Nest Thermostat E offers nearly all the same functionality as the Nest Learning 4th Generation but at a lower price.

    What you’ll love: It automatically adjusts itself to an eco-friendly temperature when you leave the house, and it notifies you with a leaf logo when you have manually chosen an energy-saving temperature.

    What you should consider: It only comes in white.

    Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

    Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

    BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

     Orange County Register 

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    Dense fog advisory affecting Orange County until Wednesday morning
    • February 26, 2025

    San Diego County Coastal Areas, Orange County Coast and Orange County are the focus of a dense fog advisory issued at 2:24 a.m. on Wednesday by the National Weather Service. The advisory is in effect until 9 a.m.

    The NWS San Diego CA says to anticipate, “Visibility one quarter mile or less in dense fog.”

    “Low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous,” the NWS said. “If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.”

    Fog safety: Tips from the NWS for safe travels

    If a dense fog advisory is issued for your area, it means that widespread dense fog has developed and visibility often drops to just a quarter-mile or less. These conditions can make driving challenging, so exercise extreme caution on the road, and if possible, consider delaying your trip.

    If driving through fog becomes inevitable, remember these safety guidelines:

    Moderate your speed:

    Slow down and allocate extra travel time to reach your destination safely.

    Visibility matters:

    Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which automatically activate your taillights. Utilize fog lights if your vehicle is equipped with them.

    Avoid high-beams:

    Refrain from using high-beam headlights, as they create glare that impairs your visibility on the road.

    Keep your distance:

    Keep a considerable following distance to account for sudden stops or shifts in traffic patterns.

    Stay in your lane:

    Use the road’s lane markings as a guide to remaining in the correct lane.

    Zero visibility strategy:

    In extremely dense fog where visibility is near zero, the best course of action is to first turn on your hazard lights, then simply pull into a safe location such as a parking lot of a local business, and stop.

    Limited parking options:

    If no designated parking area is available, pull your vehicle as far off the road as possible. Once stationary, deactivate all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights remain unlit, minimizing the chance of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.

    By adhering to these precautions from the NWS, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring your personal safety.

     Orange County Register 

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    The best dog crate
    • February 26, 2025

    Which dog crates are best?

    Having a safe and comfortable place to retreat to when you feel tired or stressed is a must for everyone, even your dog. A crate can provide your pup with their own private spot to relax when they’re afraid or need some down time. Additionally, crates are an invaluable tool when potty training your puppy or when they’re still learning what not to chew.

    Some crates are perfect for traveling with your pet, and others are built into furniture to be less disruptive to your home’s interior design. Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages Folding Metal Crate is easy to assemble and it folds down for storage.

    What to know before you buy a dog crate

    Size

    Dogs come in all different sizes, and so do their crates. It feels natural to select a large crate for your dog, but smaller spaces actually make them feel more secure. You want the crate to be large enough for your dog to comfortably stand, lie down, sit and turn around. To translate this concept into inches, measure your dog from their nose to the base of their tail and from the floor to the top of their head when sitting. Add 2-4 inches to these measurements, and these are the approximate dimensions on the proper kennel size for your dog.

    Open vs. closed sides

    Some dog crates, like those made from wire, have open sides. A crate with open sides is better for airflow, which is important if you live somewhere hot or your dog’s crate is used outside. This type of crate can keep your dog cool and allow you to keep a closer eye on them.

    Crates with enclosed sides make for a cozy, warm place for your dog to relax. If there’s a draft where you place the dog crate, enclosed sides can protect your dog. Enclosed sides can also give your dog a stronger sense of security while inside their crate. If you’re traveling with a dog in a crate, this can help them feel less exposed. You can achieve an enclosed effect with an open-sided crate by placing a blanket over it when it’s cold or at night.

    Escape-proof

    If you’re purchasing a crate for your dog to keep them safe while you’re gone, it’s important to consider how easy it is for them to escape the crate you’ve chosen. Dogs most often escape by chewing, manipulating the locking mechanism or using force to bend a hole large enough for them to slip out.

    A dog determined to get out can easily chew through fabric crates used for travel. Dogs can also chew flimsy connecting parts that lead to the crate falling apart. A bored dog can figure out how to open latches in a surprisingly limited amount of time. While having a secure crate is important, the easiest way to prevent your dog from trying to escape is to make sure they’re crate-trained and not left for too long inside it.

    What to look for in a quality dog crate

    Material

    Plastic: Plastic dog crates are usually solid on the sides and the back with a wire door on the front. These dog crates are lightweight and may have a handle attached on the top for travel. To clean a plastic crate, simply spray it down with a hose. The enclosed sides make your dog feel safe and secure but can lead to a hotter internal temperature because there’s less airflow. These types of crates are popular for use in the car or when flying with your dog.

    Wire: Wire dog crates are a smart choice for use inside the home. They have excellent airflow to keep your dog cool if you live in a hot climate. Most have a removable plastic tray in the bottom that makes for easy cleaning. They’re often adjustable, and you can section them off to accommodate your dog’s growth. Many are foldable, which makes them easy to transport, except that the metal wiring can be heavy. Some nervous dogs might not like the open sides because it makes them feel exposed.

    Fabric: If you’re looking for the easiest crate to travel with, a fabric crate is the way to go. These crates are extremely lightweight, foldable and may come with straps or a storage bag. With their soft construction material, fabric crates can be more comfortable for your dog to lounge in. If your dog is an escape artist, fabric crates aren’t the right choice since they’re easily chewed through. They’re also much more difficult to keep clean than plastic or wire crates.

    How much you can expect to spend on a dog crate

    The price of a dog crate has a lot to do with the size you purchase. If you have a smaller dog, you can expect to spend between $20 for a wire crate and $50 for a fabric crate. For larger dogs, you can expect to spend $100-$150.

    Dog crate FAQ

    How long can my dog stay in a crate?

    A. Adult dogs can be in their crate for 6-8 hours. However, according to PetMD, if you’re going to crate your pet all day while you’re at work, you really shouldn’t expect them to be in the crate all night too. Puppies can only stay in a crate for 2-4 hours at a time, as they can’t hold it as long.

    How do I crate train my dog?

    A. Crate training can take up to 6 months and requires patience and persistence. It involves slowly getting your dog used to their crate with positive reinforcement.

    What’s the best dog crate to buy?

    Top dog crate

    Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages Folding Metal Crate

    Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages Folding Metal Crate

    What you need to know: This is a rugged, well-made crate that collapses for easy storage.

    What you’ll love: This crate comes in six different sizes and can be set up without any extra tools. The bolt and latch system is tamper-free, and the crate comes with a 1-year warranty.

    What you should consider: This crate is heavier than other similar models.

    Top dog crate for the money

    Petmate Two-Door Top Load Kennel

    Petmate Two-Door Top Load Kennel

    What you need to know: A great crate for dogs under 20 pounds, this crate has a top latch to allow you to pet or soothe your dog.

    What you’ll love: This is a well-constructed dog crate with solid plastic sides and two doors. It’s available in two different sizes and three different colors.

    What you should consider: The assembly might be difficult, and some reviews note discrepancies in the listed dimensions.

    Worth checking out

    Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

    Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

    What you need to know: This dog crate is a good choice for a pet owner who wants something versatile.

    What you’ll love: This crate is perfect for air travel, as it meets most airline carriers’ requested specifications, and for at-home training. It’s made of durable recycled plastic and has a wire door.

    What you should consider: Putting this crate together and taking it apart is difficult.

    Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

    Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

    BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

     Orange County Register 

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    Orange County swimming and diving standards for 2025 leaderboards
    • February 26, 2025

    Support our high school sports coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Subscribe now


    Here are the 2025 swimming and diving standards for submitting times to the Orange County leaderboard this spring.

    If an athlete or relay achieves the standards below, please send the information to Dan Albano at [email protected] or @OCVswimdive on X

    BOYS SWIMMING/DIVING

    200-yard medley relay (O.C. standard 1:40.5)

    200 free (1:44.9)

    200 IM (1:58.9)

    50 free (21.7)

    100 butterfly (51.5)

    100 free (48.1)

    500 free (4:49.9)

    200 free relay (1:29.9)

    100 back (53.9)

    100 breast (1:00.2)

    400 free relay (3:21.9)

    Diving (450 points)

    GIRLS SWIMMING/DIVING

    200 medley relay (O.C. standard 1:51.9)

    200 free (1:55.9)

    200 IM (2:09.9)

    50 free (24.5)

    100 butterfly (59.5)

    100 free (53.7)

    500 free (5:16.5)

    200 free relay (1:48.9)

    100 back (59.9)

    100 breast (1:05.9)

    400 free relay (3.49.9)

    Diving (450 points)

    Please send swimming news to Dan Albano at [email protected] or @OCVswimdive on X

    ​ Orange County Register 

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    Luka Doncic records triple-double to lead Lakers past Mavericks
    • February 26, 2025

    LOS ANGELES — All eyes were on Luka Doncic, anticipating his every move in a Lakers uniform in his first game against his former team on Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena.

    Sections of Lakers fans chanted “Thank you, Nico!” whenever Doncic was at the free-throw line, referencing Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison, who led Dallas in trading Doncic to L.A. just over three weeks ago.

    But on a night when Doncic once again struggled with his shot in a Lakers jersey, it was his ability and willingness to step up in other areas, and set up his teammates, that helped the Lakers pull out the 107-99 victory over the Mavericks.

    “The closure is going to take a while, I think,” Doncic said after the game. “It’s not ideal. But, like I said, I’m glad this game is over. There was a lot of emotions. But we go little by little, and every day is better.”

    Doncic finished with 19 points, 15 rebounds and 12 assists to go with three steals and a pair of blocked shots for his 81st career triple-double – the first 80 of which came in a Mavericks uniform – on an emotional night for the 25-year-old Slovenian superstar, who was blindsided by the seismic trade.

    “It was just so weird, the moments,” Doncic said. “Felt like I didn’t know what I was doing. And I’m glad we got the win.”

    Doncic shot just 35.2% (6 for 17) from the field (including a 1-for-7 showing from 3-point range), but he was still instrumental with his playmaking on a night when the Mavericks defended him aggressively.

    “Obviously there’s a lot of emotion that goes in when you give so much to a franchise and you sacrifice for a franchise and you have that type of love and respect for a franchise – throughout all the journeys,” Lakers star LeBron James responded when asked how he thought Doncic handled Tuesday. “They went to the Finals (last June). He’s grown from being an 18, 19-year-old kid to now a 25-year-old man with a family.

    “So you kind of grow into a family with the franchise and when you move on or they move on from you, it’s very emotional, obviously. It’s very taxing. It’s probably a lot of things that were going on in his head that probably didn’t even involve the game itself. And with that said, I thought he handled it tremendously.”

    Doncic’s final assist to James (27 points, 12 rebounds and three assists) on a layup with 32 seconds left sealed the win for the Lakers (35-21), their third straight and 15th in the past 19 games dating to Jan. 15.

    “We understood as his teammates that we wanted to try to get this win for him,” James said. “Obviously, we know what transpired not too long ago. As his teammates, we wanted just to back him in any way, shape or form. Happy that I was – along with my teammates – able to make a couple of plays down the stretch to get him this win. I know he probably won’t say it, but I think it means something to him for sure.”

    Doncic warmly greeted his former teammates, but he also took a few portentous looks at the Dallas bench during the night.

    “It was just a lot of emotions and not much sleep,” Doncic said. “I can’t even explain. It was a different game. I’m just glad it’s over, honestly.”

    Doncic added: “It’s definitely gonna help in the long process.”

    Austin Reaves had 20 points, five assists and three rebounds for the Lakers, while Rui Hachimura added 15 points and six rebounds.

    The Lakers struggled against the Mavericks’ aggressive defensive schemes, which featured trapping and double-teams Doncic in the post and pick-and-rolls.

    “There was some good stuff that came from the doubles on the empty side [post-ups],” Lakers coach JJ Redick said. “But overall, I just didn’t think we played well out of that. And then the [traps] from the top, really just very undisciplined with our spacing and that led to some tougher shots, some late-clock situations.”

    Dallas (31-28) tied the score at 91-all on a 3-pointer from Naji Marshall with just over six minutes left.

    But James took over late, scoring 16 of his points in the fourth quarter and seven of the team’s final 16, including a putback dunk off a Doncic missed step-back 15-footer for a 102-96 lead with 2:25 left.

    “He’s doing that at 40 years old, which is insane,” Doncic said of James. “Taking over in the fourth quarter. It was unbelievable to watch.”

    Dorian Finney-Smith also made several crucial plays late: setting a screen that freed Doncic for a layup to put the Lakers ahead 94-91; and a putback dunk off a James missed floater to give the Lakers a 98-94 lead and a clutch steal.

    “He normally does a fantastic job of just setting the tone with the toughness,” Redick said of Finney-Smith. “And we had some fun yesterday with the team defining what a banshee is in different cultures. And define what a banshee is in Laker culture. And I think Doe is a banshee. He leads that charge for us and sets the tone with winning basketball plays.”

    Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with a game-high 35 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocked shots.

    Klay Thompson made five 3-point shots on his way to 22 points and eight rebounds for Dallas, which hit 17 3-pointers.

    Former Laker Max Christie scored all 10 of his points in the first half.

    “I’ve kept tabs. I’ve watched a lot of their games, really for him,” Reaves said of Christie. “I wanna see his growth and what he continues to do and he’s playing really good basketball, which isn’t surprising. I think everybody in the locker room knew the talent he was.”

    Former Lakers big man Anthony Davis couldn’t play due to an adductor injury, but he received the biggest of several standing ovations after the Lakers aired a lengthy tribute video in the first quarter.

    “We know what A.D. was for this franchise and what he did for this franchise from the moment we got him to hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy, to All-Star nods, to we won the inaugural In-Season Tournament,” James said of Davis. “And many, many dominant nights. Not only in this building but also on the road as well. Obviously, our friendship goes without saying. One of my best friends and it was great to see him get that recognition and him get that moment.”

    ​ Orange County Register 

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    Man gets 28 years to life in prison for 2019 killing of veteran found in a car trunk in Anaheim
    • February 26, 2025

    SANTA ANA — A 44-year-old man pleaded guilty Tuesday and was sentenced to 28 years to life in prison for gunning down an Iraq War veteran whose body was found wrapped in a tarp inside the truck of an abandoned Lexus in Anaheim.

    Martin Lopez Torres pleaded guilty to murder with a sentencing enhancement for the personal use of a gun. As part of the plea deal a sentencing enhancement for the discharge of a gun causing death was dismissed.

    Torres has been in custody since Feb. 2, 2020.

    Torres pleaded guilty to killing 34-year-old Adrian Darren Bonar of Escondido on Oct. 4, 2019.

    Co-defendants Antonio Silva Lopez and Nicolas Colunga are awaiting trial.

    Bonar’s body was found in the truck of a Lexus discovered abandoned Oct. 17, 2019, on Santa Ana Canyon Road west of Gypsum Canyon Road, underneath the connector road of the Riverside (91) Freeway to the Foothill (241) Toll Road.

    Bonar served in the U.S. Army from 2005 through 2009 when he was honorably discharged. He saw combat in Iraq, police said.

    ​ Orange County Register 

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    LAFC edges Rapids to advance in CONCACAF Champions Cup
    • February 26, 2025

    LOS ANGELES — Sometimes the bare minimum gets the job done.

    Such was the case Tuesday evening at BMO Stadium, where the Los Angeles Football Club stayed alive in the CONCACAF Champions Cup with a 1-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids.

    “At this stage of the season it’s more about getting the results you need,” LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo said.

    “For me, it felt like it was only a matter of time,” he added.

    Mark Delgado’s first goal with LAFC held up, and a shutout ensured that LAFC will face the Columbus Crew in the continental competition’s Round of 16 at home next Tuesday, followed by the second leg on March 11 at Lower.com Field.

    LAFC lost the 2024 Leagues Cup final and the 2023 MLS Cup final to the Crew, both in Columbus.

    Advancing past Colorado 2-2 on aggregate, with Aaron Long’s header in the first leg carrying the day via the away-goal tiebreaker, LAFC blanked the Rapids at home for a fifth consecutive time dating to May 2021.

    Coming into the contest, Cherundolo and his team knew that they had to get on the scoreboard at least once to avoid bowing out in the first round after reaching the final in their two previous appearances (2020 and 2023).

    While the opener in Commerce City, Colorado, was played in single-digit temperatures, Tuesday’s finale offered a pleasant Southern California evening around 60 degrees for the players and the announced crowd of 17,203.

    Though the conditions were immeasurably better for the second leg, LAFC labored through a particularly burdensome first half as the Rapids operated out of a 4-3-3 formation that had not used before, which limited space in the middle of the field.

    “I thought we contributed to their efforts defensively by moving the ball a little too slow, not attacking the spaces we talked about before the game, and also handing them a few gifts trying to jam it up the middle,” Cherundolo said. “When we tell players before the game that’s what we don’t want to do and players do the exact opposite, it’s always going to be difficult. Thankfully we weren’t punished for it.”

    Colorado, meanwhile, took five shots (all blocked) through 97 minutes of game action, failing to put one on target.

    In the MLS regular-season opener against Minnesota on Saturday, LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris didn’t have to make a save until after the 90th minute. Against Colorado on Tuesday, that lasted through the final whistle.

    “The defensive part of the game for us is black and white, there’s no gray area,” said Cherundolo, who played fullback for the U.S. men’s national team. “We have clear rules and right now the players are staying disciplined, following the rules and not conceding many chances.”

    A second straight compelling defensive effort from Cherundolo’s group helped LAFC remain undefeated at home against the Rapids, improving to 8-0-0 with a 22-2 goal margin, which grew by one after Delgado’s game-winner in the 49th minute.

    “It was just a burst of adrenaline,” said Delgado, who broke the seal in front of LAFC supporters in the north end of the stadium. “A lot of joy as well. I pointed to the badge and pointed to them just to let them know that I’m here with them now.”

    Receiving the ball on the right flank, David Martínez dribbled past a Rapids defender, gathering just enough room to deliver a low cross toward the 6-yard box where Olivier Giroud had made a run to the near post. The ball cleared the French striker’s long reach but, covering ground behind him, Delgado got enough of the cross while sliding to the grass that it cleared Rapids goalkeeper Zack Steffen, who made three saves on the night.

    “Marky was that piece to the puzzle that put it all together, so we’re very happy he’s with us,” Cherundolo said of the 29-year-old from Glendora, who joined LAFC in a trade with the Galaxy last month. “He’s fit in very well. He comes to work with a smile on his face and works hard, and hasn’t really needed much time at all to figure out our way of playing.”

    Cherundolo and Rapids head coach Chris Armas each made one change from the first match to their respective starting lineups.

    For LAFC, that meant going with the 19-year-old Martínez over 21-year-old Nathan Ordaz on the wing, and the Venezuelan proved to be a difference-maker.

    “He was active, which is great,” Cherundolo said. “David is not good when he’s static and sits in his position.”

    However Armas’ addition of Josh Atencio in place of offensive-minded Omir Fernandez was less influential. Unfortunately for Armas, the same could be said for Rapids star Djordje Mihailovic, who bagged both goals last week but did not get off a shot in the rematch.

    “It’s a shame that we couldn’t get the goal,” Armas said, “but give them credit for being hard to break down.”

    Late in the contest there was controversy when Rapids defender Chidozie Awaziem mixed it up with LAFC defender Sergi Palencia during a free kick. The game was paused for several minutes as officials attempted to work through what happened when Awaziem claimed Palencia made a derogatory comment in his direction.

    “I don’t know exactly what was said,” Cherundolo said. “I was on the sideline. I’m sure the referees will write a report and then we’ll figure it out from there.”

     Orange County Register 

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    Lakers honor Anthony Davis as Mavericks star sits out in return to L.A.
    • February 26, 2025

    LOS ANGELES — Dallas Mavericks big man Anthony Davis wasn’t available to play against the Lakers in his return to Los Angeles, sitting out on Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena because of a strained left adductor (inner thigh).

    But the Lakers still honored Davis with a 2½-minute tribute video on the scoreboard midway through the first quarter of Tuesday’s game – featuring highlights of the 10-time All-Star’s 5½ seasons in Los Angeles. Former teammate and good friend LeBron James was among the many to applaud Davis as the video ended and Davis received a warm ovation from the sold-out arena.

    The Lakers honored Anthony Davis with a tribute video midway through the first quarter of their home game against the Mavericks:

    Khobi Price (@khobiprice.bsky.social) 2025-02-26T03:40:40.655Z

    “I just miss being around him every day,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said before the game. “He’s a fantastic human being. Wonderful teammate. For a guy who is a superstar, who has been in the Olympics and won the Finals and All-NBA, probably had a decent amount of skepticism with a coach who has never coached before – a former podcaster, if you will. For him to just accept me and be open to a relationship and to coach him was bigtime. It speaks a lot to who he is as a person.

    “And I certainly miss him as a player, but certain inside jokes we had – it’s just a pleasure to be around him.”

    Davis, who turns 32 next month, was a member of the NBA’s 75th anniversary team, helped the Lakers win the NBA title in the bubble in 2020, and – like Luka Doncic, the player he was traded for in the shocking deal on Feb. 1 – is a five-time All-NBA selection.

    He averaged 24.8 points and 11.0 rebounds per game with the Lakers and finished his purple-and-gold tenure with the one NBA championship, four All-Star selections (2020-21, 2024-25) and a pair of All-NBA honors (2020, ’24).

    Tuesday was the first time the Lakers and Mavericks squared off since the trade that brought Doncic, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris to Los Angeles and sent Davis, along with Max Christie, to Dallas as part of a three-time trade with the Utah Jazz.

    The Lakers and Mavericks will play their final regular-season matchup on April 9 in Dallas, a reunion that might be more emotional, given how many Mavericks fans already have been extraordinarily vocal in their displeasure with the trade.

    Tuesday was Doncic’s first time playing against the Mavericks, the franchise for whom he played 6½ seasons and made five consecutive All-NBA and All-Star teams.

    “There’s probably a lot of things going on, for not just him, for Luka, but for everybody,” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said. “When you look at Maxi and [Morris], really. They were with us too. So when you look at the three players that were involved in a trade that came to L.A. And then you have Christie and A.D., who’s not playing. Just the emotions. A.D. wants to play. Unfortunately, he’s hurt. And so when you look at what Luka’s probably going through, there’s a lot of attention on this just one game.

    “But, the train keeps moving. This game is going to come and go. And understand that, he’s going to be one of the best players in the world. And the Lakers are fortunate to have him.”

    ​ Orange County Register 

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