Evan Mobley knows what he has to do to make partnership with James Harden work
INDEPENDENCE — James Harden’s ability to make each of his new teammates better in different ways has stood out in the first nine games with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The instant chemistry he’s developed with Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Sam Merrill has been easy to see. Evan Mobley is looking to be the next Cavalier to benefit from playing alongside the all-time great guard.
“He’s not scared to take risks,” Mobley said about playing alongside Harden after practice on Saturday. “There’s a lot of benefits with how he just controls the game.”
Mobley hasn’t had the same time to develop chemistry with Harden. He missed Harden’s first few games with the team due to a calf strain. As such, they’ve played in just five games and 99 minutes together, but the results have been impressive.
Cleveland has been good on both ends of the court when Harden and Mobley share the floor. They’re scoring 118.4 points per 100 possessions (76th percentile for offensive ratings) and allowing 102.3 points per 100 possessions (99th percentile for a defensive rating) when both are playing. These lineups have outscored opponents by 16 points per 100 possessions, which is in the 98th percentile for net rating.
It’s a much smaller sample size when Mobley is the only center on the court (just 57 possessions). Groups with Harden and Mobley, but without Allen, have been better offensively as they’ve posted a 122.8 offensive rating (95th percentile). The defense hasn’t been as good as they’ve had a 120 defensive rating (20th percentile) and just a +2.8 net rating (65th percentile). It’s worth noting that the Cavs have been without Dean Wade in most of these lineup configurations, which likely hurts how they’ve performed defensively.
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Lineups with Mobley as the only big alongside Harden will likely get tested on Sunday against the Boston Celtics. Allen may not be able to go as he’s still dealing with knee soreness after leaving Tuesday’s game against the Detroit Pistons with a knee injury.
Offensively, these groups have thrived due to Mobley knowing exactly what he needs to do to make things work on that end.
“I got to be dominating the paint,” Mobley said. He pointed out that it includes setting good screens and being aggressive offensively so that Harden can attack in the pick-and-roll.
Being a more physical screen setter is an area Mobley needs to improve. He is good at finishing in the pick-and-roll and can have success alongside Harden by just slipping screens. However, doing so doesn’t create the same space for Harden that a physical screen does. And he knows this.
“Hitting my screen hard,” Mobley said when asked how he could help Harden. “They’re going to put the best defenders on him, make sure we get [his defender] off James.” Mobley also mentioned that they want to get switches in these actions, which requires him to roll hard to the basket to do so.
There’s a learning curve that comes with playing alongside a new pick-and-roll partner, which is something the duo is still working through.
“Tendencies, that’s the main thing,” Mobley said. “When they like to throw it. How they like to throw it, how they would like to come off the screen as well. When he looks to attack, when he doesn’t. … I’ve been watching him most of my life, so I know some of his tendencies, but as you play with him, you learn more and more.”
Plugging Harden into the offense has worked incredibly well so far for the Cavs, but there are still areas that the team needs to work through. And they only have 19 games to do so. As of now, they’re confident that’s enough time for everyone to get up to speed.
“We’ve done a great job so far,” Mobley said. “All the guys fit in pretty well. We just got to keep sharpening it.”
'Just business': Bruce Pearl makes nice with Miami (Ohio) coach Travis Steele
March is a month defined by its trademark madness, but it can also be a time to bury the metaphorical hatchet.
After spending much of the past week critiquing Miami (Ohio) men's basketball and dumping cold water on its NCAA tournament aspirations, former Auburn coach Bruce Pearl made nice with RedHawks head coach Travis Steele as Steele made an appearance on TNT on Saturday, March 7, one day after Miami capped off an undefeated regular season.
Pearl, ever the charmer, broke the ice by telling Steele he felt like the fourth-year RedHawks coach was Cinderella and he was “the ugly stepmother,” drawing a laugh from Steele.
“I’ve also said teams are going to win their way in or they’re going to lose their way out, and you guys have won your way in,” Pearl said. “All you’ve got to do is go, ‘Hey, BP, scoreboard.’ You know I’ve been rooting for you. I’m proud of you.”
"It's a Super Bowl everywhere we're going."@MiamiOH_BBall HC Travis Steele and @coachbrucepearl talked the RedHawks' 31-0 regular season 👏 pic.twitter.com/6Nq8ZTEZ1f
— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) March 7, 2026
With a 110-108 overtime victory on Friday at Ohio, Miami improved to 31-0 and became just the sixth team since the NCAA tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985 to finish the regular season unbeaten.
While the RedHawks would earn an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament by winning the Mid-American Conference tournament, their potential candidacy for an at-large berth has been a subject of intense debate, particularly from Pearl, who’s in his first season as an analyst for TNT.
On Feb. 28, Pearl said Miami would have to win its conference tournament to make the cut for March Madness, noting that “as an at-large, they are not one of the best teams in the country.” Pearl’s comments drew extra attention and criticism because his son’s Auburn team is among the squads on the tournament bubble, with a 16-14 record heading into its regular-season finale against Alabama. Steven Pearl is in his first season as the Tigers’ coach after taking over for his father following his abrupt retirement last September.
Among those who fired back at Pearl was Miami athletic director David Sayler, who lambasted Pearl on social media on March 2.
"U are flat out wrong about @MiamiOH_BBall when u say we would finish last in the Big East," Sayler wrote on Twitter. "The disrespect is awful and u should not be near a TV studio covering this sport when u show your true colors! Even slipped in a 'we' when talking about Auburn, nice work!"
Though Miami made serious efforts to schedule “buy games” against teams from college basketball’s five power conferences, only to be turned down, the RedHawks have played no games this season against teams in Quad One of the NCAA’s NET rankings and their non-conference strength is schedule is rated as the fifth-easiest in Division I, according to KenPom. Their non-conference schedule included three games against non-Division I opponents.
Still, Miami is No. 21 of 365 Division I teams in strength of record and they’ve managed to go undefeated against Quad Two opponents, something that even top-10 teams like Michigan and Florida can’t say.
“We’re getting everybody’s best shot,” Steele said to Pearl. “It’s a Super Bowl everywhere we’re going. For our guys to be able to kind of withstand that, it just shows you the resiliency and the grit our team has. It’s really impressive.”
Pearl made sure to leave things on a positive note at the end of their two-minute conversation.
“Travis, you and me, it’s just business,” he said. “This is the business we’ve chosen. It’s not personal. I’m happy for you.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bruce Pearl makes nice with Miami (Ohio) coach Travis Steele
Penguins Sign Goaltender To Entry-Level Contract
The Pittsburgh Penguins are pretty well-known at this point for the goaltending depth they possess in their system. Netminders like Sergei Murashov, Joel Blomqvist, and 2025 draftee Gabriel D'Aigle have received a fair amount of attention.
But there is another name that has flown under the radar for the past several seasons, and he was rewarded by the organization on Friday.
The Penguins announced that they signed Taylor Gauthier to a one-year entry-level contract for $775,000 at the NHL level. The deal runs through the end of the 2025-26 season, giving the Penguins one more potential option at goaltender on the NHL roster for the remainder of the 2025-26 season as well as the playoffs.
Gauthier, 25, is having another outstanding campaign with the Wheeling Nailers - Pittsburgh's ECHL affiliate - boasting a 12-6-5 record to go along with a 2.11 goals-against average and a .923 save percentage. This is his third-consecutive season having a save percentage of at least .923 at the ECHL level.
He had one appearance at the AHL level last season, which was a 32-save shutout on Apr. 19, 2025. He has made five total appearances in the AHL dating back to 2023-24.
Evgeni Malkin Suspended Five Games By NHL's Department Of Player SafetyEvgeni Malkin has been suspended for five games for slashing Rasmus Dahlin. The signing of Gauthier through the end of the 2025-26 season gives the Penguins some much-needed insurance at the goaltending position for a potential playoff run, as any goaltender used down the stretch and into the NHL playoffs must be signed to an NHL contract. Most teams carry three goaltenders in the NHL playoffs.
This will also be key because the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WBS) Penguins are likely to clinch an AHL playoff spot, and they will need two goaltenders for their playoff run as well. Murashov and Blomqvist have been the AHL tandem for most of the season.
Penguins Acquire Big Forward From Red WingsThe Pittsburgh Penguins made a trade with the Detroit Red Wings on Friday.Bookmark THN - Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab to follow the latest Penguins news, roster moves, player features, and more!
76ers vs Hawks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game
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The Philadelphia 76ers head to State Farm Arena tonight to take on the red-hot Atlanta Hawks, with tip-off scheduled for 6:00 p.m. ET.
CJ McCollum continues to flourish with his new squad, and my 76ers vs. Hawks predictions will focus on his ability to score at will.
Read more in my NBA picks for Saturday, March 7.
76ers vs Hawks prediction
76ers vs Hawks best bet: CJ McCollum Over 17.5 points (-125)
CJ McCollum has been a nice addition to the Atlanta Hawks after coming over in the Trae Young trade. He’s averaging 18.6 points per game across 23 contests with his new squad.
The veteran guard has cashed the Over in points in three consecutive appearances, and he also dropped 23 against the Philadelphia 76ers last month and had an 18-point performance versus Milwaukee earlier this week.
McCollum's also hit the Over in three of his previous five outings at home.
76ers vs Hawks same-game parlay
Dyson Daniels has been one of Atlanta’s top playmakers this season, averaging 6.1 dimes per night. The Aussie is averaging 6.5 dimes at home compared to 5.8 on the road, and Philly is considered an easier matchup for small forwards when it comes to facilitating the basketball.
Atlanta is riding a five-game winning streak and has been dominant against Philly in recent years. The Hawks have won eight straight against the Sixers, who will also be without Joel Embiid and VJ Edgecombe.
76ers vs Hawks SGP
- CJ McCollum Over 17.5 points
- Dyson Daniels Over 6.5 assists
- Hawks moneyline
Our "from downtown" SGP: Hawks Cover!
Nickeil Alexander-Walker has cashed the Over in triples in four of his last five.
Alexander-Walker went 5-for-9 from deep on Wednesday, and the Hawks have covered the spread in six of their last seven games.
76ers vs Hawks SGP
- CJ McCollum Over 17.5 points
- Dyson Daniels Over 6.5 assists
- Hawks -6.5
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker Over 2.5 made threes
76ers vs Hawks odds
- Spread: 76ers +5.5 (-115) | Hawks -5.5 (-105)
- Moneyline: 76ers +183 | Hawks -215
- Over/Under: Over 233 (-110) | Under 233 (-110)
76ers vs Hawks betting trend to know
The Atlanta Hawks have hit the 2H moneyline in 29 of their last 50 games (+10.50 Units / 16% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for 76ers vs. Hawks.
How to watch 76ers vs Hawks
| Location | State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA |
| Date | Saturday, March 7, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 6:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | NBCSP+, FDSN SE-ATL |
76ers vs Hawks latest injuries
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Italy topple England for the first time in Six Nations history
ROME (AP) — Italy beat England for the first time in a rugby international on Saturday.
Italy triumphed 23-18 at the Stadio Olimpico, finally knocking off the only team it hadn’t beaten since it joined the Six Nations in 2000.
In a scrappy match, the home side claimed the lead for the third and final time with eight minutes to go after a Leonardo Marin try converted by Paolo Garbisi, who was a perfect five-of-five off the kicking tee.
Italy erupted in joy at fulltime, and a little relief. Having beaten Scotland at home in round one, Italy believed it had its best ever chance to topple a deflated England.
“We felt tension before the game,” Italy captain Michele Lamaro said. “We felt this game was close. We were nervous. Our confidence built during the game. We stuck together as a wall in defense.”
Defeat was England's third in a row following a 12-match winning streak, and it could get worse. England faces title-chasing France in Paris in the final round next Saturday with the possibility of suffering four defeats in the same championship for the first time in 50 years.
There's even a very slim chance England could end up with the wooden spoon if a heavy defeat to France follows a big win by Wales over Italy. As it stands, Italy has overtaken England in the table to fourth place.
Asked why things have gone so wrong for England, captain Maro Itoje said, "We have to figure it out. If we knew we wouldn't be in this position. We have to stick together. Teams go through tough periods and we are going through a tough period now.
“We have to own the result and it is a results business. As captain, I take responsibility for that.”
Two yellow cards
England’s win-loss record against Italy was 32-0 since the 1991 Rugby World Cup in tests capped by both sides, and 26-0 in the Six Nations. England averaged 36.2 points at Stadio Olimpico.
But England contributed to its historic defeat when it received two late yellow cards while in the lead.
At 18-10, flanker Sam Underhill was sin-binned for head contact on Italy prop Danilo Fischetti. Garbisi slotted that penalty kick and another soon after off the post to cut the gap to two.
Itoje was sin-binned in the 64th for illegally slapping the ball in a maul and 13 men were playing Italy's 15.
England held out and got Underhill back. Then Italy produced the try of the match.
Garbisi kick-passed to left winger Monty Ioane near halfway. Ioane charged and offloaded to Tommaso Menoncello, who bumped off Elliot Daly and passed inside to midfield partner Marin to finish off.
Until then, England looked like hanging on after coach Steve Borthwick named a new backline amid 12 team changes, three of them positional, in the most changes by England in the Six Nations era.
England dominated the first quarter but without any punch until center Tommy Freeman scored from an Alex Coles miss-out pass.
Menoncello replied with a break and 40-meter solo try for 10-5 but England reclaimed the lead right on halftime. A counterattack was capped by Fin Smith's kick-pass to scorer Tom Roebuck that Smith converted for 12-10.
Smith added two more penalties after halftime for 18-10 with Italy down a man after hooker Giacomo Nicotera was yellow-carded for a cynical ruck foul.
But instead of taking advantage, England's discipline imploded.
“We are gutted,” Borthwick said. “For 60 minutes, we are in control and those two sin-bins hurt us. Discipline is a significant factor, it is something we have to improve.”
___
AP rugby: https://apnews.com/hub/rugby
Celtics center Nikola Vucevic has surgery on broken right ring finger and will miss at least 3 weeks
BOSTON (AP) — Boston Celtics center Nikola Vucevic had surgery to stabilize his broken right ring finger on Saturday and won't be reevaluated for at least three weeks.
Vucevic was injured in the first quarter of Friday night's game against Dallas when Mavericks forward Khris Middleton swiped at the ball. He left the game, which Boston won 120-100 in Jayson Tatum's return from an Achilles tendon injury, and did not return.
The Celtics said on Saturday that Vucevic will be reevaluated in 3-4 weeks.
Vucevic was acquired from the Chicago Bulls last month at the trade deadline to give the Celtics depth at big man. The 35-year-old Montenegrin averaged 10.4 points and 21.7 minutes in 12 games with Boston.
___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba
Troy Murray, longtime Blackhawks player and radio analyst, dies at 63
Longtime Chicago Blackhawks player and analyst Troy Murray died Saturday, March 7, from cancer at the age of 63, the team announced.
"Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk, so far beyond his incredible playing career with a presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years," Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said in a statement. "He was admired by his teammates and our players, and was so proud to connect generations of Blackhawks through his work with the Blackhawks Alumni Association. He jumped at every call to support our local community with our Foundation."
Murray was selected by Chicago in the third round of the 1980 NHL draft and joined the team in the 1982 playoffs after two seasons at the University of North Dakota.
Nicknamed "Muzz," he would play for the Blackhawks until 1990-91, then return for parts of the 1992-93 and 1993-94 seasons, recording 197 goals and 291 assists in 688 regular-season games, including a career-best 99 points in 1985-86. He also won the Selke Trophy as top defensive forward that season.
He was also captain of the old Winnipeg Jets and played for the Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Colorado Avalanche. He won a Stanley Cup in 1995-96 with Colorado in his final NHL season. He had 230 goals and 354 assists in 914 NHL games.
After retiring from hockey, he went into broadcasting and served as the Blackhawks radio analyst for more than two decades, calling the Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
"He never missed a chance to say ‘hello’ in our press box and always knew the perfect time for a joke just when someone around the office needed it most," Wirtz said. "And he absolutely loved bringing Blackhawks hockey to you, our fans, night after night with a dedication to his craft that never wavered to the very end."
Murray announced in August 2021 that he had been diagnosed with cancer. He would return to the booth and continue working with the community.
"During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him," Wirtz said. "While our front office simply won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Muzz.”
Reaction to Troy Murray's death
Heaven just acquired one of the very, very best, and much too young. You fought like a lion. You lived life to its fullest. May you rest in peace Muzz. You will be remembered forever. Love ya.
— Darren R Pang (@Panger40) March 7, 2026
💔🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/bWURkFvyoY
We’ll miss you, “Muzz” ❤️
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 7, 2026
From all of us here at the Blackhawks, we extend our deepest condolences to Troy’s family and friends, our alumni and the many fans who loved him dearly
📰 https://t.co/uSli2fiTDwpic.twitter.com/bEqGYq34ts
Heartbreaking to hear the news today on the passing of @muzz19. Always had so much respect for Troy as a former @NHLBlackhawks and even better person. RIP my friend.
— Patrick Kane (@88PKane) March 7, 2026
The Avalanche mourns the passing of 1996 Stanley Cup champion Troy Murray. Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends, teammates and fans. pic.twitter.com/YKUaUDo9Ih
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 7, 2026
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Troy Murray, longtime Blackhawks player and analyst, dies at 63
Best NBA Player Props Today for March 7
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As we inch towards the final month of the regular season, the Top 10 teams look set in both conferences – but the seeding race is just heating up.
Today’s six-game slate will have a bearing on that conversation, with the Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic and Golden State Warriors among those trying to boost their playoff positioning.
My NBA picks dig into the March 7 schedule, including a wager on the in-form Brandon Podziemski.
Best NBA player props today
| Player | Pick |  |
|---|---|---|
 CJ McCollum | Over 21.5 points + assists | -110 |
 Giannis Antetokounmpo | Over 25.5 points | -115 |
 Brandin Podziemski | Over 22.5 points + rebounds | -105 |
Prop #1: CJ McCollum Over 21.5 points & assists
-110 at bet365
The Atlanta Hawks have relied on CJ McCollum for steady offense since he arrived in the Trae Young trade, and he’s answered the call. He averaged 19.3 ppg in February, and he’s nailed this combo Over in his last three games.
McCollum torched the Milwaukee Bucks in midweek with 18 points and eight assists, and he’s primed for another productive outing here as Atlanta hosts a Philly squad missing Joel Embiid, Paul George and probably VJ Edgecombe too.
The veteran has scored 17+ points in seven of his past nine outings, and his numbers jump to 20.2 ppg and 3.5 apg when playing at home.
- Time: 6:00 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: NBA TV
Prop #2: Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 25.5 points
-115 at bet365
The Milwaukee Bucks will have to consider shutting down Giannis Antetokounmpo if their losing streak continues, so tonight’s matchup with the Utah Jazz feels like a must-win.
We haven’t seen the best of Giannis yet since his return from a calf injury, but I like the Over on his points total here.
He scored 24 points in 26 minutes against Atlanta this week, making 10 of his 15 shots, and he should feast against a Jazz team that’s short in the frontcourt without Lauri Markkanen, Jusuf Nurkic, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Walker Kessler.
Antetokounmpo is averaging 64% from the field this year, so look for him to live in the paint tonight.
- Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: KJZZ, FanDuel Sports Network-Wisconsin
Prop #3: Brandin Podziemski Over 22.5 points + rebounds
-105 at bet365
Steph Curry’s absence has thrown Brandin Podziemski into a bigger role, and he’s got a path to eye-popping numbers again tonight, even against the Oklahoma City Thunder’s swarming defense.
Podziemski has scored 18+ points in four of his past six contests, while balancing a heavy minutes load, and he’s jacked up 18 shots in each of his last two games.
But it’s his rebounding that makes this such an attractive prop. He’s grabbed 7+ boards in seven straight outings, including two 15-rebound efforts, and the Golden State Warriors will need his savvy work on the glass to hold off the relentless Thunder.
- Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: ABC
These props are available now at bet365, one of our best betting sites.
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Jazz vs Bucks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game
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The Milwaukee Bucks will try to keep their slim playoff hopes alive as they host the Utah Jazz tonight.
Milwaukee has suffered four straight blowout losses, and I’m confident Utah can at least cover the spread in my Jazz vs. Bucks predictions.
Let’s take a closer look at tonight’s game in my free NBA picks for Saturday, March 7.
Jazz vs Bucks prediction
Jazz vs Bucks best bet: Jazz +10 (-105)
The Utah Jazz may be tanking, but they’ve come out to play in their last three games, covering in all three and beating the Washington Wizards on Thursday. Utah will also be at what passes for full strength right now with Keyonte George back in the lineup.
Meanwhile, theMilwaukee Bucks have lost four straight by 18+ points. Giannis Antetokounmpo is back from his calf injury, but hasn’t gotten Milwaukee any closer to winning in his first two games. I can’t see the Bucks being favored by double-digits over anyone right now, so I’m taking the Jazz to cover.
Jazz vs Bucks same-game parlay
With so many players out for the Jazz and Giannis still working his way back into the lineup for Milwaukee, I like the Under, as scoring options are somewhat limited.
One Jazz player who can put up points is George, who has scored 30+ points in each of his last two games.
Jazz vs Bucks SGP
- Jazz +10
- Under 234.5
- Keyonte George Over 23.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: George's Way!
For a longshot pick tonight, I’m going out on a limb and putting a moneyline bet on the Jazz based solely on just how badly Milwaukee has been struggling lately.
I’ll also stick with the Under while looking for George to hit his PRA total, as he’s gone Over tonight’s target in four of his last six games.
Jazz vs Bucks SGP
- Jazz moneyline
- Under 234.5
- Keyonte George Over 32.5 points + rebounds + assists
Jazz vs Bucks odds
- Spread: Jazz +11 (-110) | Bucks +11 (-110)
- Moneyline: Jazz +415 | Bucks -550
- Over/Under: Over 233 (-110) | Under 233 (-110)
Jazz vs Bucks betting trend to know
The Bucks are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall. Find more NBA betting trends for Jazz vs. Bucks.
How to watch Jazz vs Bucks
| Location | Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI |
| Date | Saturday, March 7, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 8:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | KJZZ, FDSN WI |
Jazz vs Bucks latest injuries
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Perry Speaks About His Time With Kings, Waiving His No-Trade Clause For Lightning
TORONTO - The Los Angeles Kings made a couple of trades on Friday's NHL trade deadline. One of those moves included Kings GM Ken Holland trading right winger Corey Perry to the Tampa Bay Lightning for a 2028 second-round pick.
On Saturday, after the morning skate in preparation for Tampa's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Perry explained what his short time in Los Angeles was like.
"I truly enjoyed it," the 40-year-old veteran said. "I can't say enough about the organization, how they treat the players.
"It probably didn't go as expected off the hop, but my time there was tremendous. My family is still living out there," he said.
Perry played 50 games for the Kings this season, after signing a one-year, $2-million contract in the off-season. In his short time with L.A., he scored 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points.
Now, he's back with some familiar faces on the Lightning roster. Perry spent two seasons with the Bolts in 2021-22 and 2022-23, visiting the Stanley Cup final once.
Why Los Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland Had An Underrated NHL Trade DeadlineWhile it wasn't a loud deadline, GM Ken Holland and the Los Angeles Kings made some sensible moves that make the team better for the playoff push and the future.With his move to Tampa Bay, he was required to waive his full no-trade clause.
"It was a lot of back and forth, a lot of discussion with family, and eventually we made the decision (to move)," he said.
The former Hart Trophy and Rocket Richard Trophy winner shared that his plane landed around 4 a.m. EST.
Perry said that he wasn't thinking about waiving his clause for very long. It wasn't a decision that was made well in advance, but rather a decision he made minutes after finding out about the Lightning's trade offer.
He's advanced to the Stanley Cup final for the last two seasons, and in five of the last six years. Becoming a member of the Lightning, who sit atop the Atlantic Division, allows him to chase that streak in hopes of a different outcome.
Nonetheless, Perry is happy and excited to be joining a group of old friends and mentioned, "It's kind of like I never left, I guess."
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Nets vs. Pistons preview: Best vs. worst in the East
The streak continues. The Brooklyn Nets completed their two game mini series against the Miami Heat on Thursday night. The Nets put forth good effort, but it wasn’t nearly enough to get the win as Miami handed Brooklyn their tenth consecutive defeat.
The opponent tonight is sitting on top of the Eastern Conference for the first time in a long time. The Detroit Pistons have been one of the biggest stories of the NBA season as JB Bickerstaff’s club has exceeded every expectation possible. They have a beeline on the number one seed in the East come postseason time and have an outside chance of capturing best overall record. They didn’t help their cause after losing to the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night.
Where to follow the game
YES Network on TV. Gotham Sports on streaming. WFAN on radio. Tip after 6 PM.
🤕 Injuries
Egor Dëmin is out. The three two-ways and Drake Powell remain with Long Island. This is the last game for Grant Nelson under his initial 10-day contract. The Nets can renew him for another 10 days.
Ausar Thompson is out. Cade Cunningham is questionable while Jalen Duren is probable.
🏀 The game
Detroit won the first meeting in November and second in February. These teams wrap the season series up next week.
Cade Cunningham is in a bit of a slump. The star guard has shot under 50 percent from the field in each of the past three games. It happens to everyone over the course of 82 games, so I wouldn’t worry too much about it. Cade can make his life a bit easier by getting back to the free throw line. He’s getting to the free throw line at the highest rate of his career and remains one of the league leaders in drives to the rim. When games slow down and get choppy late, being able to get points any way possible takes on even more importance. Having a guard who can get their own shot and make something happen every time they have the ball is so valuable, and Pistons fans are lucky to have a franchise guard as good as Cunningham.
Although Michael Porter Jr isn’t competing for a championship for the first time in a good while, his habits and effort stand out. He’s got a fan in Jordi Fernandez, and the way MPJ is conducting himself is part of what makes a winning franchise once they return to contention:
“… when I see Mike so engaged, and then when he thinks about rebounding, about cutting, and playing as far as he can defensively, then shots go in. I thought he was aggressive. I was very happy with the game he played. That’s the Michael that the group needs, because he brings so much good energy and the level of play of a very, very, very good player, a top player in the NBA.”
Effort is all you can ask for, and as long as you’ve got that, you’re off to a good start.
The Pistons have a roster of bruisers, which has helped them to the best offensive rebound rate in the Eastern Conference. When your guys can consistently get second and third chance opportunities, you wear the opponent down and get easy opportunities to score. Possessions become even more valuable in a close game, and being able to create a bunch more by outworking your opponent on the boards can demoralize them.
Most concerningly for the Nets, the Pistons have a propensity to force a bunch of turnovers. Detroit is first in opponent’s turnover rate and Brooklyn has the second worst turnover rate this year. One bad stretch can turn a close game into a blowout in a hurry.
👀 Player to watch: Jalen Duren
When you enter title contention, the questions you face are different. It’s no longer a question of if you’re good, but now you have to ask how far your team can go. And that is answered in part by how good your secondary star is. We know Cunningham is going to get his shots and make plenty of noise in the playoffs. For the Pistons, Jalen Duren’s play will determine how far they can go. He made the All-Star game for the first time in his career, and it was an incredibly well deserved honor. What’s different about his game this year is he’s more involved in the offense and is stretching his game out to around 10 feet. He’s evolved to being more than an elite rim running big, and that desire to get better combined with his success makes him someone to keep an eye on.
We mentioned the new questions the Pistons face now that they’re contenders, and Duren’s ability to be a good secondary option is something on our mind. From Austen Flores of Detroit Bad Boys:
“We saw how defenses sold out to stop Cunningham in last year’s playoffs, and he’ll be an even bigger focal point this time around. If Duren can consistently punish that attention — not just as a finisher, but as someone who can initiate offense — it changes Detroit’s ceiling.
The challenge? There aren’t many bigs who can truly function as a No. 2 without any perimeter game. Whether Duren can bend that rule may end up being one of the defining questions of Detroit’s postseason run.“
It’ll be fun to see how he and the team does.
Nic Claxton will have to do his best to keep Duren off the glass. Duren is fourth in the NBA in offensive rebounding this season, and will consistently create trouble on the inside. For Claxton, a game like this will provide a great test and work as a measuring stick of sorts. As Brooklyn works to find its place in the future, knowing that you have a good center that can match up against some of the league’s best will make roster building a lot easier for Brooklyn.
📺 From the Vault
Shouts to an underrated WrestleMania classic
And I turn 36 tomorrow, so let’s vibe out a lil bit
More reading: Detroit Bad Boys, SB Nation NBA, New York Post, New York Daily News, Clutch Points, Nets Wire, Steve’s Newsletter
- Brooklyn Nets Game Notes – Brooklyn Nets
- Detroit Pistons Game Notes – Detroit Pistons
- Brooklyn plays Detroit on 8-game road skid – AP
With Deep Sadness And A Heavy Heart, The Blackhawks Mourn Passing Of Legendary Troy Murray
The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Saturday that legendary broadcaster and alumnus Troy Murray has passed away at the age of 63 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
The Hawks selected Murray with their third-round pick (57th overall) in the 1980 NHL Draft. He went on to become one of the best two-way centers in the league, including a Selke Trophy in the 1985-86 season.
Over the course of his NHL career, Murray scored 230 goals and had 354 assists in 915 games played. As a defensive specialist, his offensive production was not too shabby, hence the 1986 Selke Trophy as the best defensive forward. He received votes for the award in 7 other seasons besides his winning one.
After leaving Chicago as a player, Murray spent time with the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Colorado Avalanche. With Winnipeg, he served as team captain, and he won the Stanley Cup with Colorado in 1996, which turned out to be his final season as a player.
Troy Murray then returned to Chicago to be their color commentator on the radio, where he became a local legend. For being a Calgary native, he was a favorite in Chicago for a variety of reasons that go beyond his playing career. His deep knowledge of the game and incredible insight made him one of the best broadcasters in the world for over two decades.
Murray was also very active as an NHL alumnus, as the President of the Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association. For a long time, he played a key role in the comfort of former players once their careers ended.
After Murray announced his cancer diagnosis in 2021, he continued to fight hard. He worked in the broadcast booth for as long as his body allowed him, and he remained one of the greats until his time was done. He leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. He is proof that a person can truly be from two places at once.
The Blackhawks community lost an incredible person, an amazing broadcaster, and someone who was incredibly dedicated to the team and its fans. He will be missed.
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Islanders' Alexander Romanov 'Could Be' Ready For The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs
Defenseman Alexander Romanov could be ready for the start of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs if the New York Islanders qualify, per general manager Mathieu Darche.
Romanov, who sustained a right-shoulder injury that required surgery on Nov. 18, was expected to be out until mid-playoffs, but he's progressed faster than they expected.
"Romy is doing really, really well," Darche said following the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline. "You see him before practice. There's a chance he could be ready for the playoffs, if not, like, very early in the playoffs. So he's trending really well right now. It was a long shot for the playoffs. He's rehabbing really well. It's still, like, it's borderline for playoffs, but there is a chance."
So you are saying there's a chance?
Islanders’ Alexander Romanov Progressing After Shoulder SurgeryRomanov is back on the ice, firing shots as he continues a challenging recovery. His mid-playoff-round return date hasn't changed. Per the amended CBA playoff rules, a team's game roster must be salary cap compliant. That means the Islanders need to fit Romanov's $6 million cap hit into their lineup.
Looking at the books, the Islanders currently have $3.521,236 in available cap space, but that's for the entirety of the roster.
If Romanov is back on the playoff roster, likely on the left side of Scott Mayfield in place of Carson Soucy, the Islanders' game roster cap hit would be $85.89 million, almost $10 million below the $95.5 million salary cap.
That's based on this roster:
Palat-Horvat-Barzal
Ritchie-Schenn-Heineman
Lee-Pageau-Holmstrom
MacLean-Cizikas-Gatcomb
Schaefer-Pulock
Pelech-DeAngelo
Romanov-Mayfield
Sorokin
Rittich
The Islanders currently sit tied in points for second place in the Metropolitan Division with 19 games to go.
Troy Murray, former Blackhawks player and broadcaster, dies at 63
CHICAGO (AP) — Troy Murray, who played 12 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks and transitioned into becoming the team’s long-time broadcasting analyst, has died. He was 63.
The Blackhawks announced on Saturday that Murray died earlier in the day, without specifying where.
Nicknamed “Muzz,” Murray revealed in August 2021 he had been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatments. He did not specify the type of cancer he had or provide any other details about his condition. Murray continued working on Blackhawks broadcasts, though at a diminished workload, before stepping away entirely this season.
Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said the organization was “deeply heartbroken.”
“Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk so far beyond his incredible playing career, with his presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years,” Wirtz said.
“During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him,” Wirtz added. “While our front office won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Troy.”
Murray was best known as one of the Blackhawks most respected leaders during a 15-year NHL career that ended with him winning a Stanley Cup in his lone season with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996.
After spending the following season with the International Hockey League Chicago Wolves, Murray stayed in the city to begin his broadcasting career in 1998. Murray also became president of the Blackhawks alumni association.
“Troy Murray is remembered for not only his contributions on the ice, but for his professionalism and humility and dedication to the city of Chicago,” the team said in a release. “He leaves behind a lasting legacy within the Blackhawks family and the broader hockey world.”
Selected by Chicago in the third round of the 1980 draft, the center broke in with the Blackhawks by playing one game as a 19-year-old during the 1981-82 season.
From Calgary, Alberta, Murray topped 20 goals five times, including a career-best 45 goals and 99 points in 1985-86, while also known for his defensive play. That same season, he became the Blackhawks’ first player to win the NHL’s Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league’s top defensive forward.
Murray finished with 197 goals and 488 points in 688 games over two stints with the Blackhawks, and also played for Winnipeg, where he served as the Jets captain, Ottawa and Pittsburgh. Overall, he had 230 goals and 584 points in 915 career games.
Murray played collegiately at North Dakota, and earned WCHA rookie of the year honors as a freshman in 1981, and the following year helped the school win its fourth NCAA championship. In 1982, he also was captain of the Canada’s world junior championships gold medal-winning team.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl