The Celtics made the Jayson Tatum announcement we’ve all been waiting for

PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 24: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the game against the Phoenix Suns on February 24, 2026 at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Jayson Tatum could make his long-anticipated return when the Celtics face the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night, the team announced on Thursday via the official injury report. For the first time since he ruptured his Achilles tendon, Tatum is listed as questionable to appear in Friday’s game.

Tatum, who was first injured in May in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals against the New York Knicks, has been working toward his recovery all season, accompanying the team for nearly every practice, shootaround, and film session.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Tatum has been participating in 5-on-5 workouts over the past few weeks. The Celtics also announced that he participated in a practice with the Maine Celtics earlier this month.

Without Tatum, the Celtics have held up better than most expected; they have the second-best record in the Eastern Conference at 41-21, and the fifth-best record in the NBA. They have won 7 of their last 10 games.

But his all-around prowess as one of the NBA’s best players should elevate Boston to another level.

Jayson Tatum’s return comes 10 months after the injury was first suffered

Last month at Celtics practice, Tatum said he still had no set return date. He said he won’t play until he’s 100%, and didn’t disclose what percent he was at.

“I feel like I’m beating a dead horse,” Tatum said. “I’m taking it one day at a time. This is something that’s very serious. The injury that I had is just a long journey. For me, it’s just easier to take it one day at a time and see how I progress from there.”

With Tatum cleared to return on Friday, he’ll make his return less than 10 months after the initial injury.

While the average return-to-play timeline is around 10 months, it’s varied significantly. Kevin Durant did not play in a game for 18 months. Miami Heat guard Dru Smith, who ruptured his Achilles tendon last season, was cleared for training camp just 9 months after the injury. On the flip side, Damian Lillard, who tore his Achilles tendon a month before Tatum did, was almost immediately ruled out for this season. New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray missed 13 months with the injury before returning to the court last month.

By all accounts, Tatum has worked tirelessly behind-the-scenes to get to this point. Xavier Tillman, who was traded from the Celtics to the Charlotte Hornets last month, praised Tatum’s work ethic this season.

“[His work] was pretty constant,” Tillman said. “He was here six days a week, getting it in, and always doing something to better his body. And it was actually pretty impressive to see somebody so dedicated. When I had those moments during games to just chop it up with him, he just talked about how much he just misses playing. Like, he misses being able to get a rebound, push it, talk crap to the other team, and just everything that comes with playing.”

On Wednesday night, Derrick White similarly said Tatum has looked good of late.

“Playing, moving, it’s been good to see him back and getting up and down,” White said. “So, you kind of see all the work he’s put in to get to this point, and it’s been great to see him be able to do what he loves to do.”

Now, for the first time in over a year, he could get to do what he really loves to do: suit up in an actual NBA game.

‘Toughest’ Italy Test can be defining moment for England, says Jamie George

  • ‘Lack of hard work’ has undermined Borthwick’s squad

  • England off to Rome after successive Six Nations defeats

Jamie George is braced for England’s “toughest ever” Test against Italy but believes Saturday’s Six Nations clash can be the defining moment for a much-maligned squad.

George also admitted England’s Six Nations collapse, which has ruled them out of contention for the title for another year, has been down to a lack of “hard work” and “fight”, insisting the players owe it to supporters and Steve Borthwick to make amends in Rome.

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The Suns handle their business when they should be

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 19: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns drives to the basket against Patrick Williams #44 of the Chicago Bulls during the first half at PHX Arena on March 19, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Bulls 127-121. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Phoenix Suns have had some great wins this season amid their surprising season. They beat the Oklahoma City Thunder after being down 18, stormed back against the Timberwolves despite being down eight with 50 seconds left, and manhandled the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers back-to-back nights, but the main reason the Suns are sitting 10 games ahead of .500 is because of how often they handle business against lesser opponents.

No matter who is in the lineup, whether they’re playing a tanking squad or a struggling one, they take care of business.

After win against the Kings, the trend has continued. Now 20-5 against teams under .500, the Suns are 10 games above .500 for the first time since February 10th, after beating another inferior team they handled their business against, the Dallas Mavericks. The last time Phoenix lost to a team not currently in the play-in standings or better came all the way back before Halloween, on October 29th, vs the Grizzlies, when Ja Morant hit a game-winning floater with eight seconds left.

Even when the Suns have had their stars out, they’ve taken advantage of lesser opponents, beating the Portland Trailblazers last month without Devin Booker, and now recently taking care of Sacramento this week without Dillon Brooks and Jordan Goodwin playing.

While the play-in and potentially the playoffs won’t be filled with teams trying to tank for better picks, and lineups littered with players younger than me (I’m 22), the wins have not only continued to give the Suns a cushion between them and the eighth seed (the Golden State Warriors have trailed them for more than half the season), but also keep them alive to finish as a top-six seed. The team sits just 1.5 games out of sixth.

Two teams ahead of the Suns in the Western Conference standings, the Lakers and Timberwolves, two teams the Suns won the season series against, have struggled against lesser opponents. Both teams have dropped many games they had no business doing so, which could be the difference between the two teams being in or out of the play-in, and Phoenix jumping them in the final standings. The Lakers recently lost to the shorthanded Orlando Magic and Suns, while before they started their four-game winning streak, Minnesota got embarrassed by the 76ers without Joel Embiid playing.

In order to build a culture in the NBA, consistency is needed. As good as the Oklahoma City Thunder are at facing the NBA’s best, they’re even better at handling their business against lesser teams, which is why they won 68 games last year, 57 the year before, and have the best winning percentage in the NBA this year. They’re 25-3 against teams under .500, and were 37-4 against the same type of opponents last year. Last season, they led the league in wins in the category, and are doing so again this year.

The Suns, as currently constructed, aren’t set up to be the Oklahoma City Thunder and compete for championships year after year. Phoenix isn’t even one of the front-runners to be hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy this year, but just like the Thunder, they are building an identity, one that represents a team that takes care of the business against teams that they’re supposed to.

Wisconsin Herd Weekly Recap: The end is near

SOUTHAVEN, MS - FEBRUARY 27: Mark Sears #19 of the Wisconsin Herd looks to pass the ball during the game against the Memphis Hustle on February 27, 2026 at Landers Center in Southaven, Mississippi. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Wisconsin Herd went 1-2 over last week’s slate of games as the Bucks filled their final two-way slot. With just ten games remaining in the season, the Herd is 5.5 games out of a playoff spot.

Wisconsin Herd 104, Windy City Bulls 112

Cormac Ryan: 43 minutes, 36 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 12/19 FG, 6/10 3FG, -3

Alex Antetokounmpo: 15 minutes, 2 points, 2 rebounds, 0/3 FG, -10

Pete Nance: DNP

The Herd continued their losing streak with an away loss to the Windy City Bulls. Led by new two-way player Cormac Ryan, the Herd established an early lead over the Bulls. However, the Herd went cold after the game’s first fiery moments and couldn’t fire back against the Bulls’ frequent scoring runs. Despite solid inside defense, their inability to stop Mac McClung (42 points) was the primary cause of their Tuesday loss.

Ryan’s 36-point outburst may have gotten him signed to the Bucks on Thursday. The North Carolina alum has steadily proved his worth for the Herd: averaging 21.8 points per game on .489/.434/.859 shooting splits. Yet, Ryan’s strengths extend outside of his shooting. He’s a solid rebounder, an imposing defender, and versatile on both sides of the ball. Although his fit with the Bucks remains to be seen, Ryan’s role with the Herd is well-known: to shoot the leather off the ball.

Wisconsin Herd 97, Memphis Hustle 117

Cormac Ryan: DNP

Alex Antetokounmpo: 21 minutes, 14 points, 4 rebounds, 5-7 FG, -11

Mark Sears: 35 minutes, 25 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 12-22 FG, 1-7 3FG, -21

With Ryan out, likely finalizing the terms of his two-way contract in Milwaukee, the Herd pushed their losing streak to nine games. The Herd continued their struggles of finding momentum. The Hustle started the game with a 24-7 run, and after the Herd fought back to close the lead to four, extended their lead to over 20 points in the second half. The Herd, who shot just above 22% from deep and were comprehensively outrebounded, ended their Thursday night game with a 20-point loss.

Without Ryan, we learned more about two-way player Alex Antetokounmpo and former All-American guard Mark Sears. Antetokounmpo found his shooting rhythm in a season where he has lacked it. His confidence surged on Thursday as he shot 2/4 from distance. His surprisingly solid shooting could inspire hope in Bucks execs worried about his poor long-range shooting and commitment to the three. In a limited time, Antetokounmpo has shot just over 24% from three on 2.6 three-point attempts per game.

Wisconsin Herd 134, Memphis Hustle 126

Cormac Ryan: 38 minutes, 28 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, 8-16 FG, 3-9 3FG, 4 turnovers, +13

Alex Antetokounmpo: 23 minutes, 7 points, 2 rebounds, 3-6 FG, 1/4 3FG, -14

Mark Sears: 39 minutes, 30 points, 9 rebounds, 12 assists, 10/15 FG, 2/2 3FG, 6 turnovers, +14

The Herd claimed their first win since January in the second game of a back-to-back against the Hustle. With Ryan back, the Herd shot well from downtown (14/30) while exerting their control over the glass through the efforts of Lacey James (8 rebounds), Kira Lewis Jr. (7 rebounds), and more. In a season where the Herd has struggled to string together scoring runs and summon momentum when they need it, they got it in the final minutes of Friday night’s game. The Herd used incisive drives to the basket and physical defense to string together several key baskets and pull away from the Hustle in the final moments.

Three Notes

Cormac Ryan signs two-way deal

Cormac Ryan signed a two-way deal with the Bucks, meaning he’ll be eligible for the Bucks’ second half of the season. It’s been obvious that Ryan would get the call-up; not only has he established himself as the team’s star, but he also helps address the team’s struggles on defense. Ryan likely won’t see a lot of minutes behind wings like AJ Green, Ousmane Dieng, Gary Trent Jr., etc., but his length and versatility could make him an appealing shot of energy off the bench.

Sears keeps scoring

Mark Sears has been the Herd’s most unlikely star in 2026. Since being waived by the Bucks in January and signing a full-time contract with the Herd, Sears has averaged 17.0 points, 5.9 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game. The 6’0” guard has proven himself to be a polished guard with a natural scoring instinct and solid playmaking, and his 30-point outburst in the Herd’s Friday night win shows he can be a real game-changer. However, Sears still faces a long climb back to an NBA roster. He can be a streaky shooter, and his relatively small size makes him a liability on defense. Although the Bucks don’t have a present need for Sears’ role as an attack-minded floor general, he could be a G League player to watch as multiple teams close in.

Herd reveal Aztec-inspired jerseys

2014 LeBron, anyone? The Herd is auctioning off game-worn Hispanic Heritage Jerseys to help support the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh’s Chicana/o & Latinx Studies Program. The “El Herd” jerseys are pretty sick; they feature Aztec-inspired designs, intended to “reflect and honor the indigenous roots of Hispanic heritage.” The Herd will wear the jerseys ahead of their back-to-back games against the Mexico City Capitanes on Friday and Saturday.

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks at Mesa preview, Thursday 3/5, 2:05 CT

Wednesday notes…

  • FORMER CUBS IN D-BACKS CAMP: Michael Soroka, Ildemaro Vargas.
  • CUBS MINOR LEAGUERS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY: #48, RHP Tyler Beede; #12, INF/OF Darlyn De Leon; #19, INF Matt Halbach; #20, OF Kane Kepley; #25, OF Jordan Nwogu, #73 RHP Tyler Ras; #41 RHP Tyler Santana; #35 RHP Frankie Scalzo, Jr. #41, INF Karson Simas and #33 LHP Evan Taylor.

Here are today’s particulars.

Cubs lineup:

D-backs lineup:

Colin Rea will start for the Cubs. Other Cubs pitchers scheduled today: Hunter Harvey, Phil Maton, Caleb Thielbar, Hoby Milner, Luke Little and Corbin Martin.

Ryne Nelson will start for the D-backs. Other D-backs pitchers scheduled today: Kevin Ginkel, Ryan Thompson, Drey Jameson, Spencer Giesting, Shawn Dubin and Junio Fernandez.

No TV or radio today.

MLB.com Gameday

Here is the complete MLB.com live streaming page for today.

Please visit our SB Nation Diamondbacks site AZ Snakepit. If you do go there to interact with D-backs fans, please be respectful, abide by their individual site rules and serve as a good representation of Cub fans in general and BCB in particular.

As we have done in the past, we’ll have a first pitch thread at five minutes to game time and one overflow thread, 90 minutes after game time. For today, that will be 2 p.m. CT and 3:30 p.m. CT.

These threads will not post individually onto the front page; instead, you can find links to them in the box marked ”Chicago Cubs Game Threads” at the bottom of the front page. There will also be a StoryStream on the front page with all the game thread links, as well as the recap after the game is over. The pitcher photos and regular-season stats will return on Opening Day.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

St. Louis Cardinals vs Pittsburgh Pirates Game Discussion

Feb 14, 2026; Jupiter, FL, USA; St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Dustin May (3) arrives for a workout during spring training at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

As many players have departed for the World Baseball Classic, the remaining St. Louis Cardinals will continue their Spring Training schedule by taking on the Pittsburgh Pirates in LECOM Park today. According to MLB.com, Dustin May will get the start for St. Louis while Mitch Keller takes the mound for Pittsburgh. The Cardinals Spring Training Schedule shows this game will be featured on Cardinals.TV.

Lakers vs Nuggets Computer Picks: Our Best Player Prop Projections for March 5

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Our NBA player prop projections are back for tonight’s primetime showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets, and the model has flagged a few plays that stand out.

After digging into the numbers and comparing our projections to the current market lines, we were able to zero in on the spots offering the most value.

These Lakers vs. Nuggets predictions aren’t based on guesswork, they’re driven by the data.

If you’re building your betting card, these are the NBA picks the model likes most for Thursday, March 5.

Lakers vs Nuggets computer picks for March 5

Lakers LakersNuggets Nuggets
Doncic u30.5 points 
-115
Murray u26.5 points 
-120
James o5.5 rebounds 
+120
Jokic u10.5 assists 
-130
Reaves u2.5 3-pointers
-185
Braun u5.5 rebounds 
-145

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Lakers computer picks

Luka Doncic Under 30.5 points (-115)

Projection: 30.2 points

The Los Angeles Lakers could see fewer scoring opportunities in this matchup, as they face a Denver Nuggets squad that has played at the third-slowest home pace in the NBA over the last 10 games.

That slower tempo hasn’t helped Luka Doncic lately either, as he’s stayed Under 30.5 points in eight of his last 10 games.

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LeBron James Over 5.5 rebounds (+120)

Projection: 5.9 rebounds

The Nuggets’ offensive style creates opportunities. With Nikola Jokic facilitating from the perimeter and Denver frequently generating jump shots, there are plenty of rebound chances that fall outside the immediate paint.

That plays right into LeBron James' strengths, as he crashes from the wing rather than relying solely on traditional center positioning.

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Austin Reaves Under 2.5 3-pointers (-185)

Projection: 2.3 3-pointers

The Lakers have been the worst offensive rebounding team in the league over their last 25 games, which limits second-chance opportunities. 

That trend lines up with Austin Reaves staying Under 2.5 made threes in nine of his last 10 games, especially in a tougher offensive environment like a road matchup against the Nuggets.

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Nuggets computer picks

Jamal Murray Under 26.5 points (-120)

Projection: 24.8 points

The Nuggets have been running at the third-slowest pace in the NBA over their last 10 home games.

Facing the Lakers will be more challenging for Jamal Murray to hit his points prop, with this matchup leaning toward an Under.

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Nikola Jokic Under 10.5 assists (-130)

Projection: 10.0 assists

Nikola Jokic has had a little trouble hitting his assist line recently, going Under 10.5 assists in five of his last 10 games.

The Lakers feature frontcourt and perimeter defenders who can clog passing lanes, force quicker decisions, contest shots, and create turnovers, which are all factors that limit clean assist opportunities

It could leave Jokic just short of the Over on this prop tonight.

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Christian Braun Under 5.5 rebounds (-145)

Projection: 4.9 rebounds

The Nuggets have struggled on the offensive glass, ranking as the third-worst rebounding team at home over their last 20 games.

That trend aligns with Christian Braun going Under 5.5 rebounds in four of his last 10 games, suggesting a similar outcome tonight.

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How to watch Lakers vs Nuggets tonight

LocationBall Arena, Denver, CO
DateThursday, March 5, 2026
Tip-off10:00 p.m. ET
TVPrime Video

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Ivica Zubac will play for Pacers before season ends according to coach Rick Carlisle

It was a homecoming night for Ivica Zubac on Wednesday. He had been a fan favorite with the Clippers since 2019, but was traded at the deadline to Indiana, and there was plenty of love for him among the Intuit Dome faithful.

Zubac did not play in this game, he hasn't taken the court since Feb. 2 due to a left ankle sprain. Before the game, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said Zuback will eventually play this season, but there is no timeline, via Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star.

The Pacers will be slow to bring Zubac back because he's good and they can't afford to start winning games — if they do, it's the Clippers who benefit. As part of the Zubac trade, Indiana's first-round pick this year goes to the Clippers, but it's top-four protected. At 15-47, Indiana has the second-worst record in the league, but with the lottery odds that makes it just a coin-flip Indy gets to keep the pick: 52.2% it is top four and goes to the Pacers, 47.8% it is five or six and goes to the Clippers. Indiana, Brooklyn and Washington are in a tight "race" to the bottom — they are all within 1.5 games of each other in the standings — and if the Pacers fall to the fourth-worst record, then they end up on the wrong side of those coin flip odds.

Next season, when a healthy Zubac is running pick-and-roll with a healthy Tyrese Haliburton (out for the season with a torn Achilles), a lot of fans who may not have understood just how good Zubac is are going to find out. He's going to thrive in that role. This season, it sounds like he will play some, but the Pacers have a fine line to walk.

Pistons vs Spurs Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

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Blowouts and bad shooting have skewed De’Aaron Fox’s recent output, with his points production fluctuating more than cryptocurrencies. 

Fox has scored 14 points or fewer in four of his last five showings, but the San Antonio Spurs need their All-Star guard to lock in for a huge non-conference collision with the Detroit Pistons.

This potential NBA Finals matchup sets the tone for a daunting stretch of San Antonio's schedule, and my Pistons vs. Spurs predictions and NBA picks are optimistic that Fox will find his form.

Pistons vs Spurs prediction

Pistons vs Spurs best bet: De’Aaron Fox Over 16.5 points (-105)

In the seven games since the All-Star break, De’Aaron Fox has averaged only 13.6 points in 27.2 minutes — a stark dip from the 19.4 points over 32 minutes ahead of the annual hiatus.

One-sided wins and a few bad shooting nights have impacted his output, which naturally slims his scoring props. Fox’s points totals were as high as 18.5 O/U, but we’re getting an opportunity to buy back a discounted total in a marquee matchup.

Player projections have Fox logging his standard 30+ minutes and putting up 18 points versus the Detroit Pistons, with some sharper books pricing Over at -131.

Pistons vs Spurs same-game parlay

The San Antonio Spurs are the hottest team in the league and host the Pistons for their second straight road game after a loss at Cleveland. The Spurs are 12-1 straight up and 10-3 against the spread since February 1.

Fox’s points prop has dropped since the All-Star break, with limited minutes in blowouts and some bad shooting nights hurting his output. He’s expected to get more than 30 minutes and put up 18 points vs. the Pistons, accounting for an off night against Detroit last month (10 points on 4-for-17 shooting).

Dylan Harper is another Spurs standout with an optimistic evaluation tonight. He’s projected for double digits, with a ceiling of 11.5 points. He’s scored 10 or more in nine of the last dozen games.

Pistons vs Spurs SGP

  • Spurs -3.5
  • De’Aaron Fox Over 16.5 points
  • Dylan Harper Over 9.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: The Fantastic Mr. Fox

We’re expecting Fox to find his scoring stride and power the Spurs to a high-scoring resume win over the Pistons, but his playmaking will take a hit because of it. Fox projects for Under 6.5 dimes against a Detroit defense allowing the fewest assists per game.

Pistons vs Spurs SGP

  • Spurs -3.5
  • Over 228.5
  • De’Aaron Fox Over 16.5 points
  • De’Aaron Fox Under 6.5 assists

Pistons vs Spurs odds

  • Spread: Pistons +3.5 (-110) | Spurs -3.5 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Pistons +135 | Spurs -160
  • Over/Under: Over 228.5 (-110) | Under 228.5 (-110)

Pistons vs Spurs betting trend to know

The San Antonio Spurs are 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS since February 1, including 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS at home in that stretch. Find more NBA betting trends for Pistons vs. Spurs.

How to watch Pistons vs Spurs

LocationFrost Bank Center, San Antonio, TX
DateThursday, March 5, 2026
Tip-off8:00 p.m. ET
TVFDSN Detroit, FDSN Southwest

Pistons vs Spurs latest injuries

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Report: Kings Veteran Eyeing Contract Extension, Doesn't Want To Be Traded

Amidst all the noise of the NHL's trade deadline, it appears that Los Angeles Kings right winger Corey Perry is interested in signing a contract extension.

Mayor's Manor was the first to report on the developments on Wednesday, saying the "Kings are looking to sign Corey Perry to an extension."

On Thursday, one day before the official trade deadline, NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that Perry himself informed the Kings' organization that he wants to remain in Los Angeles.

Therefore, Perry is not interested in being traded at this year's deadline and would rather further his stay and talk contract extension with the Kings.

The 40-year-old veteran is on an expiring contract that he signed in free agency this past off-season. That deal includes a full no-trade clause, so even if Holland looked at trading Perry, the player would have all the power in whether he could be moved or not.

Perry inked a deal that pays him $2 million against the salary cap, which included plenty of bonuses and incentives.

Los Angeles Kings' List Of Rumored Trade Targets Ahead Of NHL Trade DeadlineLos Angeles Kings' List Of Rumored Trade Targets Ahead Of NHL Trade DeadlineWith the NHL trade deadline just days away, it's unknown how aggressive Los Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland will be on the trade front. Nonetheless, here is a list of players that have been linked to the Kings in trade rumors this season.

Those bonuses include $500,000 after 10 games played, $250,000 for featuring in each 20, 30, 40, and 50 contests. Additionally, for the playoffs, he'd earn $125,000 for winning one round, $250,000 for the second round, and $125,000 for the third round.

So far this season, Perry has made 49 appearances for Los Angeles, scoring 11 goals and 28 points in the process. 

Corey Perry (Kyle Ross-Imagn Images)
Corey Perry (Kyle Ross-Imagn Images)

If he gets his wish and is signed to another deal, that will be his 10th NHL contract after the entry-level deal he inked in September 2004. 

If Holland is interested in bringing Perry back, it'll likely be on another one-year deal. If so, that'll be the player's fifth consecutive one-year contract.

Los Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland Reveals NHL Trade Deadline PlanLos Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland Reveals NHL Trade Deadline PlanWith just a few days until the NHL's trade deadline, Los Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland has revealed what his plan is with his roster.

The Peterborough, Ont., native continues to be an effective hockey player, even in his 40s. He's seventh on the Kings in goals and assists, and sixth on the team in points.


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Cooper Criswell is Cool

Feb 20, 2026; Peoria, Arizona, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Cooper Criswell (18) throws in the third inning against the San Diego Padres during a Spring Training game at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images | Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

Starter, reliever, long guy – it doesn’t matter to Cooper Criswell. He’ll embrace whatever role the team wants to give him.

“My dad was a basketball coach for 30-plus years, and he always told his teams, every guy on a team has a role, and you need to know your role,” Criswell said. “So for the past several years, that’s been my role, and I love doing it. Any way you can go out there and help the team win.”

The soft-spoken 29-year-old with a gentle Georgia accent isn’t what you might expect. Towering over most of his teammates at 6’6”, he says he’s actually the short one in the family; his brother, a former basketball player, is 6’8”. Despite his height, he’s no flamethrower: the hottest pitch he threw in his three-inning start yesterday was a 92.5 mph sinker.

Rather than overpowering batters with big stuff, Criswell relies on a four-pitch mix that works all quadrants of the plate: cutter up, sinker down, changeup with arm-side movement and sweeper with glove-side movement. All of this comes out of a low, almost sidearm arm slot (9°) that’s at odds with his statuesque mound presence, creating another wrinkle for batters.

“Me and my older brother growing up, like everyone in the front yard, did the Derek Jeter sidearm throw from shortstop,” said Criswell, grinning. “And it’s kind of naturally been that way since high school. Maybe it’s crept a little lower over time.”

It all adds up to a package the Mariners saw and liked when they acquired the former Red Sox from the Mets this off-season, pouncing on Criswell when the Mets DFA’d him shortly after acquiring him. For his part, Criswell is happy to have ended up with the Mariners, an organization he says he’s heard good things about both on the pitching and the people sides, and one that seems prepared to help him become the best pitcher he can be.

“Where the game’s going right now, I feel like velo’s talked about a ton, and that hasn’t even been mentioned to me yet. So that’s kind of refreshing, being a guy who’s not lighting up the radar gun but being told hey, you can pitch in the big leagues even if you don’t sit 96-97. So it’s nice and refreshing, getting that here.”

Even with non-premium velocity, though, Criswell racked up seven whiffs in his three innings of work against the Giants, coaxing 19 swings on his 41 pitches. He gave up just two hits, both singles: one, when Matt Chapman ambushed a first-pitch sinker that caught too much plate for a hard-hit single, and another ground ball base hit on a cutter to Will Brennan that Leo Rivas couldn’t quite make the play on. The average exit velocity against Criswell was 81.6 mph as he mixed his cutter, sinker, and changeup in about equally (30%), accenting with the sweeper.

“That’s kind of my aim, just throw any pitch in any count, to keep the hitters off balance so they can’t sit dead red on a fastball or something.”

A good example of Criswell’s approach was in the first inning of last night’s game. Criswell had one out with two on after giving up the two singles (one hard-hit, one not) and was facing Casey Schmitt. He started Schmitt off with a sinker in the zone that Schmitt was under, fouling it off for an 0-1 count. Next Criswell went to the cutter up out of the zone, trying to coax a swing, but it was too high. He then changed eyelines again, pulling out a changeup that Schmitt harmlessly tapped directly to Rivas at short. It’s not the sexiest highlight, unless you like inning-ending double plays:

It’s a delicate line Criswell has to walk: if the cutter or sinker wind up in the zone in a hitter’s count, there’s a good chance the pitch could get punished, as Chapman did in his at-bat. But Criswell has embraced the Mariners’ philosophy of working ahead—he had nine of eleven first-pitch strikes last night—and competing in the zone. When he arrived, the Mariners sat Criswell down and showed him the numbers for when pitchers are in 0-1 counts vs. 1-0 counts, something he considered eye-opening. While he’s always thought of himself as being aggressive in the zone, he acknowledges that in past years he’s maybe tried to nibble too much early in counts, and is committed to “going straight at guys” this year.

“Just trying to get in the zone with all four pitches, really trust your stuff. They’re constantly telling everyone—not just me—you wouldn’t be here if your stuff’s not good enough. So trust it in the zone…Don’t try to nibble and pick the corners. Make them beat you.”

Criswell says he’s going to continue building as a starter this spring, because it’s easier to go from a starter to shorter outings than vice-versa, but he’s ready for whatever the Mariners ask him to do, with his dad’s advice in his back pocket.

“You don’t know what’s going to come, but you’re there for the team in any way you can be.”

Spring GameThread: Jays @ Braves

Mar 1, 2025; North Port, Florida, USA; A detail view of a Toronto Blue Jays hat , sunglasses and glove laying in the dugout against the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

A question off the top….do we want GameThreads for WBC games? Just for Team Canada games? USA games? Japan? Dominican Republic? All the games? I guess I could put up a GameThread, each morning, for all the WBC games of that day. Anyway give your opinion.

Today we have the Jays traveling to North Port, Florida to play the Braves. The Jays have a lot of guys going to the WBC, but there are a number of Jays who are likely to make the active roster in the lineup today. There are five Braves going to the WBC. And, of course, Jurickson Profar is suspended for the season.

Eric Lauer starts for the Jays. Chris Sale for the Braves.

Lineups:

Today’s Lineups

BLUE JAYSBRAVES
Myles Straw – CFMauricio Dubon – SS
Addison Barger – 3BDrake Baldwin – C
Davis Schneider – 2BMatt Olson – 1B
Jesus Sanchez – RFAustin Riley – 3B
Tyler Heineman – CMike Yastrzemski – LF
Eloy Jimenez – DHMichael Harris – CF
Jonatan Clase – LFEli White – RF
Arjun Nimmala – SSDominic Smith – DH
Sean Keys – 1BBrett Wisely – 2B
Eric Lauer – LHPChris Sale – LHP

Go Jays Go.

Spring Training Game Thread: Red Sox at Phillies

DUNEDIN, FL - MARCH 02: Boston Red Sox center fielder Braiden Ward (92) is tagged out at the plate by Toronto Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heineman (55) on March 2, 2026, at TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Florida. (Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Is it on TV?

It sure is. First pitch is at 1:05 PM on MLB Network.

What’s the lineup?

What should we watch for?

Yikes. As fun as it’s been watching Braiden Ward small-ball his way around the bases this spring, today’s lineup is absolutely brutal. And we don’t even have any fun WBC exhibitions to flip over to. Honestly, this afternoon might be a good time to do your actual job.

Bulls vs Suns Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

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The NBA season has reached a wonky stage, with teams like the Chicago Bulls effectively playing out the string. 

That shows up in all sorts of ways, and tonight it will benefit the Phoenix Suns as they try to escape the Play-In Tournament despite a bevy of injuries.

My Bulls vs. Suns predictions and NBA picks expect an ugly slog on Thursday, March 5.

Bulls vs Suns prediction

Bulls vs Suns best bet: Under 225 (-110)

Did you know the Chicago Bulls are now starting Tre Jones at point guard?

He has gone back and forth this season between the starting lineup and the bench, returning to the former in the last two games. Jones may be there the rest of the season, as Chicago's roster was thinned at the trade deadline.

Jones is just one part of why theBulls have cashed five straight Unders ahead of tonight's matchup with the Phoenix Suns.

Chicago’s rotation is so limited that a bench piece is now tasked with initiating the offense — and it hasn’t gone well.

Bulls vs Suns same-game parlay

Jones is a competent floor general, but this role is simply too big for him these days.

He has cleared these points prop just twice in the seven games since the All-Star Break, though he handed out six assists three times in those seven games.

In fact, this exact SGP would have cashed twice in that stretch.

Bulls vs Suns SGP

  • Under 225
  • Tre Jones Under 13.5 points
  • Tre Jones Over 5.5 assists

Our "from downtown" SGP: Suns Cruise

The Bulls have lost 12 of their last 13 games outright.

Bulls vs Suns SGP

  • Under 225
  • Tre Jones Under 13.5 points
  • Tre Jones Over 5.5 assists
  • Suns moneyline

Bulls vs Suns odds

  • Spread: Bulls +10.5 (-110) | Suns -10.5 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Bulls +375 | Suns -500
  • Over/Under: Over 225 (-110) | Under 225 (-110)

Bulls vs Suns betting trend to know

The Bulls have not only cashed five straight Unders; they have done so by an average of 11.1 points compared to bookmakers’ expectations. Find more NBA betting trends for Bulls vs. Suns.

How to watch Bulls vs Suns

LocationMortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ
DateThursday, March 5, 2026
Tip-off9:00 p.m. ET
TVCHSN, KTVK

Bulls vs Suns latest injuries

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Which Royals player makes you the most nervous this year?

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - OCTOBER 09: A Kansas City Royals fan looks on during Game Three of the Division Series between the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on October 09, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Spring is a time for hope. But in the back of the minds of even the most optimistic Royals fan there are concerns about how it could all go wrong. Which players give you cause for concern?

The Royals seem to be relying a lot on the performance of young hitters like Carter Jensen and Jac Caglianone. Jensen performed well, but could he struggle the more pitchers see him? Will Caglianone continue to pound the ball in the ground as he did his rookie campaign?

Carlos Estévez led the Majors in saves, but he certainly made us sweat through a lot of them. Can he still be a solid closer or does his career-worst strikeout rate last year give you pause? Does Lucas Ereceg’s significant drop in strikeout rate ring alarm bells?

Pitchers are always at risk of injury, and the Royals have their fair share of pitchers with a history of landing on the Injured List. Cole Ragans and Kris Bubic are both coming off injuries that cut their 2025 season short. Seth Lugo had a second-half swoon that raised questions about whether or not he can handle his workload. And Michael Wacha turns 35 years old in July – any pitcher at that age should make you a bit nervous.

Which players makes you the most nervous on this roster?