With the Sacramento Kings currently sitting at No. 13 in the Western Conference, postseason almost out of the picture, and internal pressure mounting, the franchise appears closer than ever to a rebuild. If that reset comes, rookie center Maxime Reynaud stands as the most compelling piece to build around.

While Sacramento has not officially committed to a rebuild, it is looking increasingly likely that this will be the outcome. With recent speculation mounting, the Kings have the perfect candidate to center an impending rebuild around.

Special Skillset

Reynaud is a seven-footer out of Stanford who was drafted with the 42nd pick of the 2025 NBA Draft, and since getting more minutes, he has looked like a bright spot for Sacramento.

What makes Reynaud so good is not only his height. His 7-foot-3 wingspan allows him to defend well under the rim, and his footwork is also notable, as evidenced by his ability to switch on smaller forwards with ease on the defensive end of the ball.

Sacramento’s current roster complicates his early integration, as Domantas Sabonis remains the offensive hub.

The Kings finished second in team handoff frequency last season, and this handoff-heavy style forces the team into a specific play style that limits the offense. 

Why Is Reynaud the Future?

If the Kings stay committed to Sabonis, Reynaud becomes a luxury developmental piece. But if the front office decides a significant overhaul is necessary, Reynaud immediately becomes the blueprint.

Offensively, Reynaud’s potential expands even further. His ability to operate as a dribble-handoff threat mirrors aspects of Sabonis’ game but with more vertical pop and smoother shooting indicators. 

NBA front offices increasingly prioritize bigs who can play in space, stretch to the elbows, and facilitate the offense. Reynaud fits that mold. Scouts noted during pre-draft evaluations that his decision-making under pressure was among the most advanced in his class.

The Kings must also consider the free-agency market. Sacramento has historically struggled to attract top-tier free agents, and trading core veterans often produces mixed returns. 

Building around a cheap, high-upside center provides financial stability and timeline flexibility, two things the franchise has lacked since the early 2000s. Reynaud represents a rare chance to reshape the organization’s identity around a modern big.

There is no guarantee that Reynaud becomes a star, and the Kings should not force a rebuild purely for the sake of doing so.

But as teams across the league experiment with young cores, such as the reigning champions in Oklahoma City, who had an average age last year of 24.2, the second youngest in the league, in contrast to Sacramento, which ranks third oldest with an average age of 28.2. Sacramento risks falling behind if it clings to a flawed roster out of comfort. Should the Kings choose to reset, Reynaud offers the clearest sign of being a long-term piece for this team.

The post Maxime Reynaud Should Be the Centerpiece of a Kings Reset appeared first on The Lead.

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) — The Harlem Huskies nearly pulled off the first major upset of the season Friday night in NIC-10 boys basketball.

The Huskies had a lead on the three-time defending champion Guilford Vikings in the fourth quarter before it got away from them, and Guilford escaped with a 61-57 win.

Guilford improves its record to 4-2 overall and 3-0 in the conference. Harlem is 2-5, 0-3. For highlights watch the media player above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.

As the year draws to a close, Langkawi is experiencing a surge in tourism, driven by the usual holiday rush that takes place every year. The island’s vibrant tourism industry is enjoying increased bookings, not because of spillover from the recent flooding in Hat Yai, but due to long-standing factors such as the festive season and school holidays. Hotels, both luxury and budget, are seeing a boost in occupancy, with many establishments nearing full bookings. The popularity of Langkawi as a destination during this time is further fueled by international flights, including chartered services, and visa-free access for tourists from China and India.

Langkawi’s Robust Year-End Growth

Langkawi has always been a top choice for travelers during the festive season, and this year is no different. Norsidah Ahmad, the Sales and Marketing Director at Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi, reported that hotel bookings had increased, but not due to the impact of the Hat Yai floods in southern Thailand. The region’s usual holiday rush, including school breaks and festive holidays, continues to be a significant driver. One of the major contributors to the increase in bookings is the chartered flight service from Poland, which began operations on October 31 and will continue until March. This seasonal flight service has contributed to a boost in occupancy rates at Langkawi’s four- and five-star beachfront hotels.

In addition to the chartered flight, several airlines have responded to the increasing demand by increasing their Langkawi flight frequency from weekly to daily. This adjustment has played a crucial role in maintaining market share, particularly among travelers from India, the Middle East, and Europe. Visa-free travel for visitors from China and India has also supported the rise in demand, making Langkawi even more accessible to a broader international audience.

High Occupancy Across Langkawi’s Hotels

The increase in demand has not been confined to luxury accommodations. Even budget hotels are reporting a surge in bookings due to the holiday season. Nur Atirah Abdul Nasir, the owner of a Pantai Tengah budget hotel, shared that all 22 rooms in her establishment were fully booked until the end of the school break. The majority of her guests are international travelers, a trend that speaks to Langkawi’s continued appeal as a vacation destination.

Despite the floods in Hat Yai, which could have led to a shift in tourist patterns, Nur Atirah emphasized that the influx of visitors was purely driven by Langkawi’s popularity during the festive period, rather than any external factors. This further highlights the resilience of Langkawi’s tourism sector, as it continues to attract visitors based on its own merits as a premier destination.

A Rebounding Tourism Sector

Datuk Alexander Isaac, a well-known figure in Malaysia’s hospitality and tourism industry, confirmed that many four- and five-star hotels were running at nearly 95% occupancy during this peak period. He noted that local tourists had secured their stays well in advance for the holiday season, contributing to the high demand. Tourism activities, such as sunset cruises and water sports, had experienced some setbacks due to adverse weather conditions in recent months, but they were now performing well, with cancellations decreasing significantly.

Datuk Isaac also remarked that the Hat Yai floods were unlikely to have any impact on Langkawi’s tourism. December is traditionally a strong month for domestic travel in Malaysia, and foreign tourists have started arriving in increasing numbers, a trend that is expected to continue into 2026. The combination of local visitors and the resurgence of international tourism positions Langkawi for continued success in the coming year.

Langkawi Remains a Top Destination

The importance of December to Langkawi’s tourism sector has long been established. Eugene Dass, the chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels Kedah and Perlis chapter, reiterated that December has always been a peak month for Langkawi. He expressed satisfaction at the high occupancy rates being reported across the island, mirroring the strong demand seen in previous years. Dass highlighted that Langkawi’s continued attractiveness as a travel destination is evident in the optimism among hoteliers, who are well-prepared to welcome guests during this busy period.

Langkawi’s ability to bounce back and thrive, even amidst external disruptions such as the flooding crisis in Hat Yai, speaks to the island’s resilience and its growing appeal to both domestic and international travelers. As Malaysia’s most popular resort destination, Langkawi has established itself as a must-visit spot for those seeking a combination of beaches, luxury, and cultural experiences.

What This Means for Travelers

For travelers planning to visit Langkawi, the island offers an array of experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. Luxury travelers can enjoy beachfront resorts and exclusive experiences, while budget-conscious visitorscan find affordable accommodation that offers access to the same natural beauty and vibrant culture.

For tourists looking to explore Langkawi, the island provides not just beautiful beaches but also cultural landmarks, natural reserves, and a wide variety of activities, from water sports to heritage tours. Visitors can explore the Langkawi Sky Bridge, relax at Pantai Cenang, or embark on a sunset cruise, all while experiencing the warmth and hospitality that Langkawi is known for.

Given the high demand for accommodation and activities during this period, it is advisable for travelers to book their stays and excursions in advance. While Langkawi remains a popular year-round destination, the festive rush increases competition for spots, and early reservations ensure that travelers can enjoy their time on the island without unexpected interruptions.

Conclusion: Langkawi’s Continued Growth as a Leading Travel Destination

Langkawi’s strong performance during the year-end surge is a testament to the island’s enduring appeal. With a growing influx of both local and international tourists, the island’s tourism sector is expected to continue thriving in the coming years. The combination of affordable accommodation, luxury resorts, and cultural experiences positions Langkawi as a top choice for a diverse range of travelers. As Langkawi continues to offer unparalleled experiences to visitors, the island’s popularity shows no signs of waning, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Muscat International Airport in Oman, once the undisputed leader in customer experience, has now lost its top ranking. For three consecutive years, it held the prestigious title of “World’s Leading Airport for Customer Experience” but has recently been overtaken by Hong Kong International Airport at this year’s World Travel Awards. This shift in rankings highlights significant changes in the global aviation landscape, showcasing how major airports around the world are continually evolving to meet rising passenger expectations. The World Travel Awards, widely regarded as the “Oscars of the Travel Industry”, are a benchmark for excellence, with winners determined by public and industry votes. This latest development signifies how much has changed for airports in the race to deliver exceptional customer service.

Muscat International Airport’s Rise and Fall in Customer Experience Rankings

Muscat International Airport, located in Seeb, approximately 32 km from the capital Muscat, has long been renowned for its superior customer experience. The airport, which spans more than 2,000 hectares, served as a crucial hub for both regional and international flights, with connections to Asia, Africa, and Europe. Its architecture, facilities, and passenger services were lauded, and it became a symbol of Oman’s growing prominence in the travel industry. However, despite these impressive credentials, Hong Kong International Airport has outpaced Muscat this year.

Hong Kong International Airport: A New Champion of Customer Service

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), spanning 1,900 hectares, has consistently upgraded its infrastructure and passenger services to enhance the customer experience. The airport, operational since 1998, has set new standards for comfort, efficiency, and innovation. Its emphasis on seamless connections, modern amenities, and diverse services has earned it the “World’s Leading Airport for Customer Experience” title. Not only does HKIA serve as a major transit point for travelers between Asia, Europe, and North America, but its commitment to excellence has made it a true contender in the race for global supremacy in aviation service.

Why the Shift in Customer Experience Rankings Matters

The decision by the World Travel Awards to crown Hong Kong International over Muscat is more than just a symbolic gesture—it highlights the ever-changing demands of air travelers. As international air travel continues to grow, particularly in the post-pandemic era, the need for airports to offer exceptional service has never been more crucial. Passengers expect ease of navigation, cleanliness, safety, timely services, and a range of amenities. Airports must continuously innovate to stay competitive, which means investing in technology, improving infrastructure, and ensuring their staff is equipped to handle increasing passenger traffic.

For Muscat International, this ranking loss signals a need to reassess its strategies and perhaps accelerate its own infrastructure projects and service improvements to maintain its position among the world’s top airports. Although the airport continues to perform well in several categories, Hong Kong’s commitment to keeping pace with evolving trends has enabled it to surpass Muscat.

Travel Tips for Airport Experiences: What Passengers Should Know

For travelers flying in and out of Hong Kong International Airport and Muscat International Airport, it’s essential to understand the key elements that make these airports stand out. Here are a few tips to improve your airport experience:

• In Hong Kong, take advantage of the automated check-in kiosks, which can significantly reduce waiting times. The airport also offers excellent shopping and dining options that cater to a wide range of tastes. For smoother transitions between connecting flights, make sure to familiarize yourself with the Airport Express Train that connects the terminal to the city center in just 24 minutes.
• In Muscat, while the airport continues to offer an impressive experience, it’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak hours, as it’s still working on improving its passenger flow management. Be sure to check the airport’s official website for any new updates on services or operational changes.
• For both airports, always keep an eye on real-time flight status updates and signage to avoid unnecessary confusion. Many travelers miss out on last-minute changes due to delays or gate changes.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Airport Service Excellence

As the global travel market continues to expand, airports like Muscat and Hong Kong are at the forefront of providing unmatched passenger services. The ongoing competition between major airports will spur further innovations in customer experience, pushing the aviation industry to offer better amenities, faster services, and more personalized options. For travelers, this competition benefits them by improving overall service standards across the globe.

With Hong Kong International now leading the charge, it will be interesting to see how other airports—especially those in emerging regions—step up their game to challenge for this coveted title. In the end, passengers are the true winners of this competition, as airports strive to deliver world-class services that make traveling smoother and more enjoyable.

Summary of Key Information:

• Muscat International Airport, previously ranked the best for customer service, lost its top spot in 2025.
• Hong Kong International Airport has taken the lead in the World Travel Awards for Customer Experience.
• Airports like Muscat and Hong Kong are crucial hubs offering services to Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond.
• Passengers can benefit from better service standards as airports continue to compete for excellence.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport has been named the most convenient airport in America for business travel, surpassing other major U.S. airports like Boston Logan, Reagan Washington National, Los Angeles, and Denver. According to a new report, this ranking highlights Hartsfield-Jackson’s dedication to minimizing ground-time friction with clear signage, direct gate routes, and strategically placed elevators.

While Boston Logan, Reagan Washington National, Los Angeles, and Denver have long been popular choices for business travelers, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta outshines them all in terms of convenience. The study also reveals that convenience plays a crucial role in shaping the business travel experience, making it essential for corporate travelers to consider airports like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta for their future trips. This comprehensive guide to the most convenient U.S. airports for business travel is a must-read for anyone seeking smoother, more efficient journeys.

Corporate Traveler has released its much-awaited Business Travel Airport Guide, shedding light on the most desirable airports for business travelers. The guide ranks U.S. and international airports across multiple categories, such as security efficiency, accessibility, dining options, and overall convenience. By gathering insights from travel managers, Corporate Traveler has highlighted the importance of a seamless airport experience in reducing travel friction. This comprehensive report serves as a valuable resource for businesses aiming to enhance the travel experience for their employees, ensuring that efficiency and comfort go hand in hand.

Top U.S. Airports for Business Travelers

In the U.S., Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport leads the way for business travel, with 15% of travel managers ranking it as the best. Known for its efficiency and smooth operations, it stands out as the top choice for frequent flyers. Following closely are LaGuardia Airport in New York (11%) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (9%), both of which are praised for their convenience and quick transit times. George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston and Boston’s Logan Airport round out the top five. These airports excel in providing high-quality amenities and services that ensure business travelers can manage their time effectively.

International Airports That Lead the Pack for Business Travel

When it comes to international travel, Singapore Changi Airport is the undisputed leader, with 21% of travel managers naming it the best. The airport’s cutting-edge facilities, fast immigration clearance, and extensive dining options set it apart from others. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and London Heathrow Airport follow closely, both scoring 16%. These airports provide smooth transit experiences and world-class services that are essential for business travel. The convenience of quick connections, seamless transfers, and premium lounges make these airports highly desirable for global business travelers.

Efficiency is Key for Business Travelers

Efficiency remains a top priority for business travelers. Nearly half of the survey respondents (49.1%) cited efficient security screening as the most important factor when selecting an airport. This focus on time-saving measures ensures that business professionals can spend less time in queues and more time focusing on their work. Airports like Logan Airport in Boston and LaGuardia in New York were recognised for their swift and reliable security measures. The faster travelers can get through security and customs, the quicker they can focus on their meetings or travel to the next destination.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: Rising Airport Standards

Accessibility has become increasingly important in recent years. Airports that prioritize inclusive design and traveller assistance are becoming the new standard. Boston Logan Airport leads the way in accessibility, with a strong focus on inclusive facilities and mobility. Los Angeles International Airport and Denver International Airport also rank highly for accessibility, with features like elevators, ramps, and dedicated assistance staff. These improvements ensure that business travelers, regardless of their physical needs, can navigate the airport with ease, ensuring a smoother start to their journey.

Airport Dining: Fueling Productivity Between Meetings

For business travelers, high-quality dining options are essential for staying productive during layovers. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is once again the leader, offering a wide variety of premium dining choices. From quick snacks to sit-down meals, the airport caters to all preferences. Chicago O’Hare and Los Angeles International Airport follow closely, offering diverse options that allow business travelers to recharge. These airports understand that efficient dining options not only keep travelers nourished but also allow them to continue their work while enjoying a meal.

Lounge Comfort: A Productive Oasis for Business Travelers

For many business travelers, airport lounges serve as a refuge from the chaos of busy terminals. Los Angeles International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York have been recognized for their outstanding lounges, which provide a tranquil space to work or relax. These lounges offer quiet seating, reliable Wi-Fi, and premium amenities, making them ideal for business professionals in need of some downtime before their flight. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, also a top contender for its lounge quality, provides numerous spaces for travelers to unwind or conduct meetings in comfort.

The Fastest Improving Airports for Business Travelers

Airport improvements are vital for maintaining a smooth travel experience, especially for business travelers. LaGuardia Airport in New York has made significant strides in upgrading its facilities, improving security processes, and enhancing overall design. It was named one of the fastest-improving airports in the U.S., with new modernized terminals and expanded services. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Denver International Airport also saw significant improvements, contributing to their strong rankings in overall airport excellence.

Key Insights from the Corporate Traveler Business Airport Guide

Corporate Traveler’s Business Travel Airport Guide provides invaluable insights for both business travelers and companies. The guide highlights the importance of airports focusing on efficiency, accessibility, and the overall traveler experience. It underscores the need for seamless connections, quality dining, fast immigration processes, and comfort-focused lounges to ensure that business trips are productive and stress-free. By choosing airports that prioritise these factors, business travelers can significantly reduce travel friction and ensure smoother transitions during their journey.