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Safest Fantasy Basketball Players to Draft in 2025: All-Floor Teams & Rankings

Every fantasy basketball championship is built on consistency. While chasing high-upside breakouts can be tempting, the safest fantasy basketball players to draft in 2025 are those who deliver reliable production night after night. These high-floor NBA picks combine excellent per-game averages with proven durability—giving you the stable foundation every winning roster needs. In this guide, we reveal our three All-Floor teams featuring the most dependable fantasy producers for the 2025 season, from elite guards like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to dominant big men like Nikola Jokic.

First Team All-Floor

Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder

The 2025 MVP is versatile on both sides of the ball and can rack up fantasy totals quickly. He's a three-level scorer who is especially adept at drawing fouls, which result in additional trips to the charity stripe. He's also very durable, with only 13 missed games over the past two seasons.

Guard: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves

Edwards is the offensive centerpiece of the Timberwolves and has a talented supporting cast around him. He's a dynamic player who makes highlight-reel-worthy plays on a nightly basis. Although he takes abuse when he slashes inside and draws a lot of attention from opposing defenses, Edwards has played 72-plus games over the last four seasons.

Forward: Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics

Although he underwent knee surgery in the offseason, a breakout campaign could be in store for Brown. He's the heir to the throne of Boston's offense with Jayson Tatum out until April at the earliest, and he'll have little competition at the wing once he's back to 100 percent. He's missed a few more games than other people on the first team, but his tremendous upside earns him a spot.

Forward: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis is a nightly double-double threat and is arguably one of the most dynamic players in the league. He can burn you on both sides of the ball, and the only knock on his game is his work at the free-throw line. He can play hurt and only misses games in the most extreme circumstances.

Center: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

Jokic's inclusion in the first team is no surprise. Jokic will pop with triple-doubles almost every week, and few players in the league can match his prolific numbers. He can spur the Nuggets to victory through sheer will, and it's a miracle that he's stayed healthy throughout most of his career despite his tremendous volume. He's missed only 15 games over the past two seasons.

Second Team All-Floor

Guard: Luka Doncic, Los Angeles Lakers

In the past, Doncic's lack of conditioning and overall fitness have been a concern, but it appears he's taken steps to correct that narrative in the offseason. According to reports, he has shed several pounds and is in the best shape of his career. With LeBron James nearing retirement, Doncic is poised to take the reins of LA's offense, and he's already made an impact since joining the team last February. Like Jokic, he has triple-double potential whenever he takes the floor and is a dream addition to any fantasy squad.

Guard: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks

Although the recent hiring of Mike Brown might alter the offensive scheme for the Knicks, it shouldn't adversely affect Brunson. He's one of the most productive and consistent guards in the league, and he's coming off a career season where he was the driving force behind New York's playoff run. He's been impacted by injuries in the past, but he's averaged 70 games over his three-year tenure with the Knicks.

Forward: Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers

Mobley could be one of the most underrated players in the league, but he won't fly under the radar with us. Although he was limited by injury during the 2023-24 season, he's been very durable otherwise. He matches his excellent attendance with a superior interior game and the ability to stretch the floor with adept mid-range shooting. He'll often finish with a double-double and will rarely disappoint.

Forward: Pascal Siakam, Indiana Pacers

Siakam had a very productive 2024-25 season and was typically the team's top scorer. With Tyrese Haliburton out and Myles Turner off to Milwaukee, Siakam should be the offensive centerpiece for a squad that will need Bennedict Mathurin and Andrew Nembhard to step up. There's little doubt that Siakam's role will expand, and he's managed to remain injury-free for the past four seasons.

Center: Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs

There were some initial concerns about Wembanyama's durability after an injury torpedoed his rookie campaign, but he silenced the critics by appearing in 71 games last season. Wembanyama is one of those generational players whose upside is uncapped, and he should have one of the highest floors on this list. Nikola Jokic was the only barrier keeping him from first-team honors.

Third Team All-Floor

Guard: Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

Young is the definition of consistency, as the talented point guard continues to churn out a high floor nightly for the Hawks. He had some injury struggles during the 2023-24 season, but he's usually good for at least 70 games. Young is an adept dime-dropper who can put up double-doubles with regularity, and Dyson Daniels' presence on the floor has helped to boost Young's production. 

Guard: Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns

With Kevin Durant off to Houston, all eyes will be on Booker as the unquestioned leader in Phoenix. He's one of the best shooting guards in the league and is a productive multi-category fantasy threat. He's capable of enormous totals, and we will probably see more than a few 40-point explosions in the new offensive scheme. Although such upside is his best asset, his floor is very dependable and invaluable.

Forward: Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic

Orlando will be a team to watch this season as they add Desmond Bane to the starting lineup, and Banchero will continue to be the team's top offensive option. Although he flies under the radar a bit due to the small market, he's deserving of a second-team spot. He can rack up rebounds and points regularly, and although his 2024-25 season was thwarted by an oblique injury, he's only 22 and is just beginning to come into his own. Banchero is still developing and has some shooting issues he needs to fix, but his sheer volume will make up for the deficiency.

Forward: Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors

Barnes is the offensive engine for the Raptors, who are finally starting to put together a competitive roster. The team depends on consistent fantasy production from Barnes, and he almost always delivers. While he's had some injury setbacks over the past two seasons, it's easy to forget that he just turned 24 in August, and his body should be able to handle the volume. While we value durability, his nightly contributions were strong enough to merit an addition to the third team. His thumb injury appears to be behind him, and he should be ready to go for the regular season.

Center: Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings

Sabonis doesn't get the attention he deserves. Two seasons ago, the center actually outdueled Nikola Jokic for the highest triple-double total, and he nearly repeated that feat last season. He displays MVP-level production without getting any votes for the crown, but that could change if Sacramento's playoff chances improve. A triple-double is a regular occurrence for Sabonis, and he's proven to be very durable. He's only missed 15 games over the past three seasons.

Honorable Mentions

LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat

Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers

Derrick White, Boston Celtics

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Big Z's moment: Bruins to retire Zdeno Chara's number on Jan. 15

Big Z's moment: Bruins to retire Zdeno Chara's number on Jan. 15 originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The Boston Bruins announced Monday that they will retire former captain and longtime defenseman Zdeno Chara’s No. 33 in a ceremony on Jan. 15, 2026, at the TD Garden.

The number retirement ceremony will be held prior to the team’s game against the Seattle Kraken, currently scheduled for 7 p.m. The team said additional details, including doors open time, fan activations, ceremony start time, and broadcast information, will be shared closer to the date.

Tickets to the game are available to purchase at bostonbruins.com/tickets. All-inclusive suite rental options that accommodate 18-240 guests are also available at bostonbruins.com/suiterentals.

“It is truly beyond words to see my jersey, number 33, raised to the rafters at TD Garden,” Chara said in a statement released by the team. “This honor is greater than anything I could have imagined when I first came to Boston. I am forever grateful to the Bruins organization for trusting me to lead, to all my teammates past and present, to the fans whose passion and energy made Boston feel like home, and to my family who made everything possible. This moment is not just mine – it belongs to all of us.”

Chara will address the media at TD Garden on Tuesday, at 10 a.m. ET.

“The Rafters are a fitting home for 33, because there will never be another Zdeno Chara,” said Jeremy M. Jacobs, Bruins owner and governor. “From his skill, size and physical dominance on the ice, to his leadership in the locker room and impact on the Boston community, Zee is a legend of the game and the ultimate Bruin.” 

“There is no greater embodiment of what it means to be a Boston Bruin than Zdeno Chara,” Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs added. “Zdeno brought a special brand of leadership to the Boston Bruins by challenging and empowering his teammates every day. Over his 14 years as a captain, Zdeno helped define Boston Bruins hockey with his drive for on-ice excellence and sportsmanship, along with his off-ice commitment to serve the greater Boston community.”

“From the moment he arrived in Boston in 2006, Zdeno Chara brought with him an unmatched presence, combining size, strength, and skill with a leadership style that elevated everyone around him,” Bruins President Cam Neely said. “Zdeno set the standard with his professionalism, his legendary work ethic and his fierce competitiveness, and he did it all while representing our organization with the utmost class. As someone who has experienced what it means to have your number hanging in the rafters, I can say without a doubt that Zdeno’s No. 33 belongs there. It will serve as a permanent reminder of his place as one of the greatest Bruins of all time.”

Chara’s No. 33 will be the 13th number retired by the organization and the first to be raised to the rafters since Willie O’Ree’s No. 22 was retired in January 2022. He will be the first European player to have his number retired by the Bruins.

Other retired numbers by the Bruins include 16 (Rick Middleton, 2018), 8 (Cam Neely, 2004), 24 (Terry O’Reilly, 2002), 77 (Ray Bourque, 2001), 7 (Phil Esposito, 1987), 9 (Johnny Bucyk, 1980), 4 (Bobby Orr, 1979), 15 (Milt Schmidt, 1956), 2 (Eddie Shore, 1947), 5 (Aubrey “Dit” Clapper, 1947) and 3 (Lionel Hitchman, 1934).

Chara retired from the NHL in September 2022, signing a one-day contract with the Bruins. The Slovakia native was originally selected by the New York Islanders in the third round of the 1996 draft. He signed with Boston in July 2006 and served as team captain for the entirety of his 14-year stint in Boston, making him the second-longest tenured captain in club history behind Ray Bourque.

The 6-foot-9 defenseman appeared in 1,023 career games with Boston, totaling 148 goals and 333 assists for 481 points. He ranks eighth in franchise history in games played and third in goals, assists, points, power play goals (69), shorthanded points (19) and average ice time per game (24:29) by a defenseman.

Chara won the Stanley Cup with the Bruins in 2011, becoming the first captain to bring a Stanley Cup to Boston since 1972. He appeared in two additional Stanley Cup Final series with the Bruins (2013, 2019) and finished his career with 18 goals and 52 assists for 70 points in 200 playoff games.

In his 14 seasons with the Boston, Chara led the Bruins to the postseason 11 times. His 14 Game 7 appearances are tied with Patrice Bergeron for the most by an NHL player.

Chara was the recipient of several individual accolades in his playing career. He won the Norris Trophy in 2008-09, awarded annually to the league’s top defenseman. He was also the recipient of the Mark Messier Leadership Award in 2010-11 for his exemplary leadership both on and off the ice. Chara was named to the NHL First-All Star Team three times (2014, 2009, 2004), the NHL Second All-Star Team four times (2012, 2011, 2008, 2006) and was a six-time participant in the NHL All-Star Game (2012, 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2003).

Over the course of his 24-year NHL career, he played in 1,680 games with the New York Islanders, Washington, Boston and Ottawa, totaling 209 goals and 471 assists for 680 points with a plus-301 rating. He holds the NHL record for most games played by a defenseman and ranks seventh among all skaters in games played.

Chara was inducted into the International Ice Hockey Federation’s Hall of Fame in 2025. He was also elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Chara currently serves as a Hockey Operations Advisor and Mentor for the Bruins.

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Premier League: 10 talking points from the weekend’s action

Mason Mount shows his worth, Oliver Glasner makes no excuses and Chelsea find a new defensive duo

Elliot Anderson spent much of Nottingham Forest’s 2-0 defeat on Tyneside reminding Eddie Howe how much he lost when Premier League spending rules demanded that the midfielder be sold to fend off the threat of a points deduction. That was back in the summer of 2024 and Anderson, now an England international, has rarely looked back since joining Forest. For much of the first half he eclipsed even Sandro Tonali and, overall, was comfortably Ange Postecoglou’s best player. Yet Anderson is human and when his loose pass offered Bruno Guimarães an opening, his subsequent attempt at a recovery tackle was mistimed and sent Guimarães crashing in the area. The Brazilian had already shot Newcastle ahead from 25 yards and from the spot Nick Woltemade scored his fourth goal in five starts. Tellingly, at the final whistle both Postecoglou and Howe made concerted efforts to console Anderson. If Forest’s manager is to survive and then thrive at Forest he will inevitably be heavily dependent on Anderson’s talent. Howe, meanwhile, would love to buy the Newcastle academy graduate back. Should Forest, with or without Postecoglou, continue to founder Newcastle may yet be in with a chance. Louise Taylor

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Yankees' Max Fried credits Blue Jays for 'really good approach' against him in loss

Max Fried has made two starts for the Yankees this postseason and they both couldn't have gone more different.

After 6.1 scoreless innings against the Red Sox in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series, the left-hander returned for Game 2 of the ALDS against the Blue Jays and allowed seven earned runs in 3.0+ innings.

The poor performance put New York in a tough spot, both in the game and also the series as they return to Yankee Stadium on the verge of elimination.

"They obviously had a really good approach," Fried said. "They were on a lot of my pitches and credit to them. I didn’t get it done and it’s frustrating, especially coming out in a game like this and needed to have a good one."

Following the embarrassing Game 1 loss on Saturday, New York and Fried were hoping to get some revenge on Sunday. However, it was just more of the same with Toronto scoring 13 runs on 15 hits a day after it put up 10 runs on 14 hits.

As for the Yankees' offense, it couldn't figure out Blue Jays rookie starter Trey Yesavage who blanked New York over 5.1 hitless innings while striking out 11. It was only after Yesavage left the game when the Yanks were able to score, pushing across seven runs in the sixth and seventh innings. 

Of course, the late burst of offense wasn't enough with the damage already done, but it was a good sign after New York managed to score just once on Saturday.

"Yeah it was tough," said Aaron Judge about Yesavage. "First time seeing him. He was making his pitches, kinda keeping us in between a little bit there all night. We kinda got it going there late, but at that point it’s a little too late. We saw him now, take it back home and we’ve been playing with our backs against the wall all year long so it’s nothing new for us."

The Yankees will now need to win three in a row to advance to the ALCS. That daunting task will start on Tuesday with Carlos Rodón on the hill.

As for Fried, the team will still need to rely on him if it does end up pushing the series to a Game 5. If that's the case, Fried, who has been New York's ace all season, will be ready.

"We’re a good team," Fried said. "Two games doesn’t mean anything. We still have the ability to go out there and win three in a row and win the series so we still gotta believe."

Manager Aaron Boone is also optimistic about his team's chances despite facing elimination. 

"Baseball’s a funny game," he said. "I know we’ll show up and be ready to go expecting to win Tuesday night. Obviously feels like the world is caving in around you and you lose two games like that in their building where it doesn’t go right, but all of a sudden you go out there and win a ballgame on Tuesday, the needle can change. 

"There’s been a lot of weird things that have happened in baseball this year, this would not be the weirdest, us rallying.

To the Yankees credit, they staved off elimination twice in the Wild Card Series against Boston after losing Game 1 (and wasting Fried's gem). Now they'll have to do it three more times against another division rival who has had their number this year (9-5; 7-1 at home).

The good news? New York went 4-2 against Toronto at Yankee Stadium this season and has historically played well against the Blue Jays at home.

"We got experience," Judge said. "We got guys in here who’ve been to the World Series, in some tough moments, backs up against the wall, especially all season long so we just gotta show up and do our thing."

"We’re ready to go," Fried said. "Obviously had a rough showing here and obviously we’d rather be up 2-0 than down 2-0, but we have a lot of faith in this club and if there’s anyone who can win three in a row, we did down the stretch and we believe in each other here."

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New Defenseman Ready To Bring 'Good Habits' To Pittsburgh

New Pittsburgh Penguins' defenseman Caleb Jones may have suited up for the Los Angeles Kings' organization last season prior to becoming an unrestricted free agent. But, oddly enough, he found himself training with some players from a different organization this summer.

And what better guys to train with in the National Hockey League right now than the back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers?

Caleb, 28, is the younger brother of Seth Jones, 31, who was dealt from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Panthers prior to the 2025 trade deadline. It just so happens that Seth arrived at the perfect time, as he was an instrumental part of Florida's 2025 run and put up four goals, nine points, and a plus-11 rating in 23 playoff games for the Cats.

During that playoff run, Caleb was in town, too, to watch his brother play on the NHL's biggest stage - and to learn a few pointers from some of the very best the league has to offer.

"It was a great experience for me to see those guys," Caleb said. "They’re obviously the champs, and everyone’s trying to chase them right now and see their work ethic and their mindset every day.

"I think that’s why I’ve had a really good camp. I was able to be down there with those guys and learn a lot of good habits, and kind of just put them into myself and bring them here.”

Of course, that 'here' is in Pittsburgh, where he signed a two-year, $1.8 million contract this summer. 

Former Penguins' Defenseman Signs New Deal With BlackhawksFormer Penguins' Defenseman Signs New Deal With BlackhawksAfter an offseason of uncertainty, a former Pittsburgh Penguins' defenseman finally has a home for the 2025-26 season.

Jones was drafted in the fourth round (117th overall) by the Edmonton Oilers - ironically, the team that Florida beat in the Final for the second consecutive season - and spent the first three seasons of his NHL career there. Sure enough, he spent the next two seasons with the Blackhawks, which happened to fall within the same timeline as Seth being with the organization.

Caleb has relished the opportunity to go through the experience of NHL hockey with his brother and best friend, and he especially enjoyed those two years.

“It’s been pretty cool," Caleb said. "We’ve trained together every summer since I turned about 20. And, obviously, getting the chance to play with him for a couple years in Chicago, that was really special. When you’re kinda in the moment, you don’t realize - you lose sight of, like, how actually cool that is... and then, once you’re done doing it, you’re like, ‘Wow, that was an awesome experience.’"

Mar 6, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks forward Jason Dickinson (17), forward Anders Bjork (24), defenseman Caleb Jones (82) and forward Andreas Athanasiou (89) celebrate with defenseman Seth Jones (4) after Seth Jones scored his second goal of the second period against the Ottawa Senators at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images

But now - after a stint with the Colorado Avalanche in 2023-24 and the one in L.A. last season - he's found a new home in Pittsburgh, and he's ready to bring some of those "good habits" to the black and gold. For much of training camp, he has been paired alongside Penguins' veteran defenseman Kris Letang, and it's a combination that has stuck, even as the rosters were trimmed down to 23 on Saturday.

Of course, Jones is aware of the strengths in his own game. But he's making sure to pick the brain of, arguably, the greatest Penguins' defenseman of all-time.

“It’s been awesome," Jones said. "I’ve been with him every day so far, and he’s obviously done a lot of great things in the league, knows a lot of tricks, and kinda has that veteran savvy to him. So, you kind of just try to take as much information from him as he gives you and, at the same time, just have confidence in yourself... trust yourself and your game and just try to play well with him. That’s all it is.”

And Jones is fairly confident in the defining qualities of his game. The 6-foot-1, 184-pound blueliner brings an element of speed to the Penguins' defensive corps, and he contributes a little bit of everything, bringing a defensive conscience while also aiding in the transition game and chipping in on offense occasionally. 

Penguins' Pre-Season: Surprising Cuts Made, Two Top Prospects Likely To Start In NHLPenguins' Pre-Season: Surprising Cuts Made, Two Top Prospects Likely To Start In NHLAfter a grueling training camp that included a successful 5-1-1 pre-season, the Pittsburgh Penguins' roster appears to be set for the 2025-26 season.

“I’m playing with a lot of energy, playing with a strong gap, and kind of just using my skating to disrupt plays and move the puck and join the rush," Jones said. "Getting a chance on the PP, PK... I’ve been in those roles. So, you try to just be solid and try to have the coaches’ trust. I’ve gotten good feedback through [camp], so I'm just trying to stay energized and keep my confidence high, and do my thing.”

Of course, there will be a bit of a battle for playing time on a crowded Penguins' blue line. It appears the team is opting to carry eight defensemen - one of them being top prospect Harrison Brunicke, who figures to get some runway on the right side along with Erik Karlsson and Letang. 

That means right-shot guys like Connor Clifton and Matt Dumba will, likely, be faced with some time on their off-side, potentially leaving little margin for error for the left-side blueliners in Jones, Parker Wotherspoon, and Ryan Shea. 

Jones is aware of the competition within team walls, even as he's felt extremely welcomed by the organization and his teammates. But he is focused on his game, his strengths, and bringing some of those champion habits he pried from Florida - as well as from some of the longstanding veterans in his current locker room - to the rink on a daily basis. 

"I'm just trying to keep going day by day," he said. "And I'll keep trying to do something a little better every day.”

Penguins Defensive Prospect Set To Start 2025-26 Season In ECHLPenguins Defensive Prospect Set To Start 2025-26 Season In ECHLPittsburgh Penguins defensive prospect Emil Pieniniemi won't be in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to start the 2025-26 season.

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Julio Rodríguez lifts Mariners over Tigers 3-2, Seattle takes Game 2 of ALDS to even series

SEATTLE (AP) — Julio Rodríguez hit a tiebreaking RBI double in the eighth inning and the Seattle Mariners beat the Detroit Tigers 3-2 in Game 2 of their AL Division Series on Sunday to even the series.

With the game knotted at 2-2 and one out in the bottom of the eighth inning, AL MVP candidate Cal Raleigh doubled with one out. Shortly after, Rodríguez doubled home Raleigh to put the Mariners in front for good.

Closer Andrès Muñoz retired the Tigers in order for the save one night after throwing two innings in a 3-2 loss in 11 innings.

Jorge Polanco homered twice for Seattle.

After going scoreless against Seattle starter Luis Castillo and three Mariners relievers, the Tigers tied the game against Matt Brash in the top of the eighth.

Gleyber Torres worked a leadoff walk, and Riley Greene reached on a fielder’s choice that was misfielded by Seattle first baseman Josh Naylor for an error. Spencer Torkelson followed up with a double into the right-field corner to tie the score at 2-2.

Seattle regained the lead in the bottom of the inning.

Raleigh, who led the majors in home runs this season with 60, lined Kyle Finnegan’s pitch into the right-field corner and slid headfirst into second base. Rodríguez followed with a double of his own, sending the sellout crowd of 47,431 at T-Mobile Park into a frenzy.

Polanco got the Mariners on the board with a one-out solo homer over the wall in left center field in the bottom of the fourth inning. He added another one off reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal with two outs in the sixth.

Polanco became the fourth Mariners player with a multi-homer game in the postseason, joining Ken Griffey Jr., Edgar Martinez and Jay Buhner, who all accomplished the feat in 1995.

Skubal, who struck out 14 batters to set the AL record for most strikeouts in a postseason game by a left-handed starter while beating Cleveland in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series, fanned nine across seven innings on Sunday. He limited the Mariners to five hits and walked one.

Castillo, meanwhile, maneuvered through 4 2/3 scoreless innings. In the fifth, he surrendered his first hit of the game, a two-out single by Gleyber Torres that put runners on the corners. But left-hander Gabe Speier was summoned to face Game 1 hero Kerry Carpenter and struck him out to end the inning.

Castillo now has a 1.49 career postseason ERA, having given up four earned runs and 18 hits in 24 1/3 innings while striking out 22 and walking five.

Up Next

RHP Logan Gilbert starts for Seattle in Game 3 against Tigers RHP Jack Flaherty. Gilbert has one game of postseason experience, having lost Game 1 of the 2022 ALDS against the Astros in Houston. Flaherty is 5-3 with a 5.05 ERA in 11 postseason games.

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With their big three out, Lakers work on 'championship habits' against Warriors

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 05: Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles.
Lakers guard Bronny James, right, drives on Golden State star Stephen Curry during the Lakers' 111-103 preseason loss to the Warriors at Chase Center on Sunday. James finished with five points and three rebounds in 23 minutes. (Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images)

The Lakers entered training camp with hopes of finally establishing chemistry between stars Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves. But the trio have yet to see the court together. On Sunday, they all stayed on the bench during the Lakers’ 111-103 loss to the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center.

With Doncic (rest) and James (glute) already out, Reaves was rested Sunday after an already full first week of training camp. The fifth-year guard had the highest workload on the team entering the first preseason game that took place after three days of practice. He scored 20 points against the Phoenix Suns as one of the few offensive bright spots in Friday’s blowout loss.

Without their top offensive playmakers, the Lakers got a lift from guard Gabe Vincent, who made his preseason debut after nursing a knee injury. He had 16 points and five assists while center Deandre Ayton, who scored just one point on two shots in Friday’s preseason game, scored seven points, all in the first quarter, with seven rebounds.

Read more:Why Luka Doncic didn't play in Lakers' preseason opener against Suns

“We came with more intention,” Vincent said compared to the Lakers’ 103-81 loss to the Suns on Friday. “We were more focused. Obviously it's different with those three not playing. They're a huge part of our team and everything that we do. But next man up.”

After their first two preseason games, the Lakers have one week of practice until their first home preseason game against the Warriors on Oct. 12. Coach JJ Redick said that although Doncic was scheduled to rest for the first two preseason games after he played in EuroBasket with his national team, the Slovenian superstar is still expected to play before the team officially opens its season on Oct. 21. The Lakers have four preseason games remaining.

Whether James, who was held out of early training camp practices because of nerve irritation in his glute, will play in the preseason remains to be seen. Entering an unprecedented 23rd NBA season, James is on a slower ramp-up schedule than previous years, Redick said.

The Warriors took a similarly cautious approach with their aging superstars as Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler III and Al Horford were all limited to one half. The 37-year-old Curry still scored 14 points in 15 minutes, draining five of seven shots from the field and drawing loud cheers from a nearly full Chase Center crowd when he laid up an acrobatic shot through contact and pointed two finger guns into the ESPN baseline camera.

Redick called it a challenge to get a proper evaluation of his team in a 48-minute preseason game when his top three stars are out, but after Friday’s preseason opener, he was looking for better organization on offense early in the shot clock, playing with pace and more physicality.

“We've got to be more physical getting open,” Redick said before the game. “We've got to be more physical with our screening. That doesn't change based on who's in the lineup, so that habit, we can build that.”

“Championship habits” is one of three pillars Redick has preached relentlessly during training camp, along with championship communication and championship shape. He said he would judge the latter in part by whether players are sprinting back on defense.

The Lakers were outscored 23-5 in transition Sunday and 42-11 through two preseason games.

With the exception of a 10-0 Warriors run to end the second quarter and a nearly six-minute stretch to begin the third quarter during which Golden State pushed a seven-point halftime lead into a 23-point rout, Redick said the overall competitiveness was “much better” than against Phoenix. But the next challenge will be to put forth that effort consistently. 

It follows a recent theme Redick introduced to the team: Kaizen, the Japanese word for improvement.  

“It's just getting 1% better each day,” said forward Jake LaRavia, who had 10 points and three assists. “And that goes along with just winning the day. We thought when we played Phoenix, we didn't. Today, we thought we did a good amount better, obviously, still not the result that we wanted, but we're working in the right direction.”

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

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Knicks reportedly shopping Pacome Dadiet so they can keep both Brogdon, Shamet

From the moment the Knicks signed Landry Shamet and Malcolm Brogdon, it was clear another move was coming. The Knicks are hard-capped at the second apron and cannot keep the two guards without trading someone else away to create cap room.

That person may be Pacome Dadiet, reports Jake Fischer at The Stein Line.

"The focus for that trade has been on former first-round pick Pacome Dadiet ever since the Knicks signed the two veterans to Exhibit 9 contracts. Sources tell The Stein Line that Knicks, in fact, have indeed already called several teams to gauge interest in Dadiet."

Dadiet was a first-round pick of the Knicks a year ago, a developmental project on the wing who appeared in just 18 games for New York. Dadiet showed flashes in the Knicks' opener at the Las Vegas Summer League, scoring 17 points, but he only played in a couple of games and had a foot issue.

Dadiet is set to make $2.8 million this season, and the Knicks have yet to pick up the team options on the next two years. There are teams willing to take a flyer on Dadiet at that price, but they will likely squeeze the Knicks for a second-round pick since they are taking on the salary.

If the Knicks can't find a trade for Dadiet or another player, they will have to let one of Brogdon or Shamet go before the season starts.

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Conor Sheary Inching Toward Earning Roster Spot With Rangers

 Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

All signs are pointing toward Conor Sheary earning a contract and roster spot with the New York Rangers. 

During the offseason, the Rangers signed Sheary to a Professional Tryout Agreement as he looked to compete at training camp for an opening-night roster spot. 

Mike Sullivan coached Sheary for multiple seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins, as they won two Stanley Cups together. 

Sheary’s past relationship and success with Sullivan led to him coming to New York on a PTO deal. 

Throughout training camp, the 33-year-old forward stood out, proving his worth to Sullivan and the Rangers’ management. 

Sullivan has consistently put Sheary in a power-play role, which proves that he does have a plan for his trusted winger. 

New York Rangers • News and CommunityNew York Rangers • News and CommunityNew York Rangers news, video, analysis and community on The Hockey News Follow all Rangers news at https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers

The expectation is that Sheary will play a bottom-six role for the Rangers if he were to make the team.

With the regular season set to begin on Tuesday, Sheary is yet to be placed on waivers, a positive sign we’ll see him with the Blueshirts to kick off the 2025-26 season. 

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4 Nations fun, Stanley Cup run prominently featured in new season of FACEOFF: Inside the NHL

The new season of Prime Video’s behind-the-scenes hockey series FACEOFF: Inside the NHL dropped on Friday.

Florida Panthers fans are going to enjoy a lot of what the new season has to offer.

While there are fun Panthers tidbits that can be seen throughout, there are some key episodes that focus much of their runtime on Panthers-related content.

First, Episode 1 features the life of Ottawa Senators star forward Brady Tkachuk on and off the ice.

Much of it focuses on his time at the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he and his brother, Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk, were key elements of the Team USA squad that came within an overtime goal of winning the tournament.

The injury suffered by the elder Tkachuk was also a main point of emphasis in this episode.

Another episode that Panthers fans are going to love is the final one, Episode 6.

That one is all about the Cats and their quest for a second straight Stanley Cup, and it give the same incredible, in-depth access that we received during the first season of FACEOFF.

Similarly to last year, we get some great mic’d up moments from the players, including another frustrated Oilers screaming moment in their locker room and some great bytes from Panthers Head Coch Paul Maurice.

No surprise there.

Let us know in the comments below which moments were your favorites from the new season of FACEOFF!

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Photo caption: Feb 15, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; [Imagn Images direct customers only] Team United States forward Matthew Tkachuk (19) and Team Canada forward brandon Hagel (38) fight in the first period during a 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey game at the Bell Centre. (Eric Bolte-Imagn Images)

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Here is how the Yankees can still get to the ALCS

TORONTO -- J.C. Escarra was the only Yankee who had seen it. He was the only one who knew how difficult it was to face that split-fingered pitch from the highest release point in baseball.

On Aug. 21, playing for the Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, Escarra faced the Buffalo Bisons’ Trey Yesavage and struck out twice. None of his teammates had faced Yesavage, who made his MLB debut on Sept. 15. Escarra spoke in the Yankees’ hitters meeting prior to Yesavage’s Game 2 gem.

“I just let the team know what I saw,” Escarra told SNY after the 13-7 loss to the Blue Jays that put the Yanks in an 0-2 series hole. “I think with him, you take out the arm angle [and] it’s nothing we haven’t seen before, you know? But you throw in the height [6-foot-4] and the angle that he throws from, that is what gives the deception that plays off the splitter.

“As guys get more comfortable against that arm angle, I think we’ll do better.”

We bring this up not to review Game 2 but to light a path for the Yankees to take this series. In order to win, they’ll have to once again deal with Yesavage and Game 1 winner Kevin Gausman. In those losses, the team picked up a few insights on how to be more successful next time.

Carlos Rodon must beat the Jays on Tuesday in New York to extend the season. Cam Schlittler needs to do the same on Wednesday. Let’s cut right to the potential game that will be necessary for the Yanks’ season to progress past this week.

In Game 5 in Toronto on Friday, Max Fried would likely face some combination of a rested Gausman and Yesavage (Gausman would be on regular rest on Thursday, an off day; Yesavage would on Friday).

If facing Gausman as a starter, the Yankees’ adjustment will be straightforward. They should swap Ben Rice at first base for Paul Goldschmidt. Manager Aaron Boone started Rice in Game 1 because Rice earned it by becoming an elite MLB hitter this year. But Rice struggled against Gausman’s splitter, a tough pitch for a left-handed hitter.

Goldschmidt is 10-for-22 lifetime against Gausman, with a .636 slugging percentage. And as one scout put it, “Goldy is good against soft” -- like the splitter.

The solution for Yesavage -- like Escarra suggested -- is experience. Not only was he facing the Yankees for the first time on Saturday, but the team’s hitters were uniquely unable to prepare for him.

The Yanks are one of many teams to use a Trajekt Arc pitching machine, which uses artificial intelligence tools to mimic the pitches and mechanics of opponents. This is particularly useful against unfamiliar pitchers -- and particularly used against an uncommonly high release point.

The Yankees clinched the Wild Card Series against Boston late on Thursday, then flew to Boston for a workout day on Friday. The Trajekt is too big to travel, and home teams do not make their machines available to visitors. There was no time to practice against the Trajekt version of Yesavage.

When I noted this on Twitter during the game, the reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith of SportsNet in Toronto noted in a quote tweet that “this was part of the reason why it made sense for the Blue Jays to start Yesavage at home, and start the more experienced Shane Bieber @ NYY.”

Kyle Boddy, the founder of the influential Driveline Baseball pitching company, added, “This sounds like an excuse given the box score, but it’s a very real training tool for the best organizations. Still, Trajekt can’t perfectly mimic extreme release points - possibly including Yesavage (ex: has real trouble with Chris Sale).”

As one Yankee put it after the game, “Trajekt is objectively helpful, period.”

The Yankees were not looking to make excuses or cite the lack of Trajekt as the reason for their loss. This was my thought, not theirs. But it does speak to their chances of faring better against Yesavage on Friday, if they earn the chance.

As the Yankees’ postgame clubhouse was about to close on Sunday, I asked Giancarlo Stanton if the hitters would be more prepared for a second shot at Yesavage in particular because of the unique arm angle.

“Yes,” Stanton said without hesitation.

Then he offered a light admonishment of my premise. “That would be looking ahead,” Stanton said. “We’ve still got to win Tuesday first and get there.”

He was right, of course. But the road to the ALCS likely now goes through Gausman and Yesavage again.

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Crosby Set To Tie Prestigious NHL Record This Season

By now, Pittsburgh Penguins' captain Sidney Crosby approaching NHL records is a relatively regular occurrence. 

And - this year - he is set to tie yet another.

At the dawn of the 2025-26 season, Crosby will tie Detroit Red Wings legend Steve Yzerman as the longest-tenured captain in NHL history. Yzerman holds the current record at 19, which is the number for both total seasons captained and seasons captained with one franchise.

Crosby, 38, was named captain of the Penguins on May 31, 2007 at 19 years, nine months, and 24 days old, which made him the youngest captain in NHL history at the time. Gabriel Landeskog of the Colorado Avalanche and Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers have since broken Crosby's previous record.

The future Hall-of-Fame center has led Pittsburgh to three Stanley Cup Championships and four Cup Final appearances. The Penguins made the postseason for 16 consecutive seasons from 2007-2022 under Crosby's captaincy, which is tied for the ninth-longest postseason streak in NHL history.

Behind Crosby as the longest-tenured active captains in the NHL are Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals, who is entering his 16th consecutive season, and Landeskog, who is entering his 14th.

Everything You Need To Know About Captains Heading Into The 2025-26 SeasonEverything You Need To Know About Captains Heading Into The 2025-26 SeasonThere aren’t many higher honors on a professional sports team than being the captain of a team. This article will be all about them, a rundown of current and past captains, where they come from, and interesting facts along the way.

Bookmark THN - Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab  to follow the latest Penguins news, roster moves, player features, and more!     

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With elimination looming for Yankees, Carlos Rodón has opportunity to seize moment in Game 3 of ALDS

Carlos Rodón says he’s enjoyed the heightened atmosphere October brings to the Bronx, how the fans are louder and the stakes so supercharged. “It’s a treat to be able to step on the mound in Yankee Stadium in the playoffs,” Rodón noted on Sunday.

He’ll be at his happy place on Tuesday, when he starts Game 3 of the ALDS against the Blue Jays and Shane Bieber. But Rodón will have to cope with more than just the enjoyable parts of pitching there in October, since this best-of-five series has gone dangerously haywire for the Yankees. 

With the Bombers down 0-2 and facing elimination, Rodón faces tremendous pressure to save the season. Or at least help extend it and give the Yanks more life. Can Rodón be the stopper that Max Fried wasn’t on Sunday?

We can’t possibly know until he takes the ball. But we do know this – the Yankees brought Rodón here for starts like this, to excel in big spots. He didn’t get a six-year, $162 million contract to be a mid-rotation piece who just sucks up innings. He needs signature starts, outings that fans will remember and, perhaps, even cite as an example for future Yankee teams pushed to the brink. 

After by far his best season as a Yankee, there’s plenty of evidence that Rodón can seize this moment. He was 18-9 with a 3.09 ERA in 33 starts, finishing second in the AL in wins and eighth in ERA. He’s awfully hard to get a hit against – he allowed 6.1 hits per nine innings, the best mark in the American League. Opponents batted .188 against him.

That means it’ll be fascinating to see how he fares against the Blue Jays, who had the most hits in the majors, and excel at putting the ball in play. Toronto had the lowest strikeout percentage in baseball, which means that Rodón might have to seek outs in different ways.

He acknowledged Sunday in the pre-game interview room, “I’ve always chased the strikeout.”

To his credit, though, Rodón also talked about how he’s watched Fried, a fellow lefty, rack up outs via weak contact. It made him weigh the merits of forcing contact to get quick outs, rather than slogging through a longer battle. We’ll see if he can apply that to the Blue Jays on Tuesday. 

“They're tough to strike out,” Rodón said. “They force action. They put the ball in play. They make teams play defense. They're pretty athletic. There's also slug within the lineup.

“And it makes it tough. There's times where you need a strikeout and just the miss isn't there.”

During the season, Rodón had a 3.60 ERA against Toronto, allowing six runs (four earned) in 10 innings. But he walked eight batters, a potential red flag for a start in which a few walks might lead to Yankee doom. 

Another potential reason for limited confidence in him – Rodón’s career postseason ERA is 6.15, including a 5.32 mark as a Yankee. Last year, he was so overamped in his first playoff start against the Royals, he could not get out of the fourth inning, despite starting with three scoreless innings, including a 1-2-3 first with three Ks. He had a terrific start against Cleveland in Game 1 of the ALCS, but was spotty in two outings afterward. 

He said earlier this postseason that he learned from those experiences. He has a 4.50 ERA so far this October, but lasted six innings against the Red Sox, enough to help the Yankees win Game 2. 

Starting pitching was such a huge part of the Yankees victory over Boston in the Wild Card series – the rotation had a 1.33 ERA. But the starters have been a main factor in the Yankees getting clobbered twice in a row in Toronto. Yankee starters have gotten a total of 17 outs (eight by Luis Gil, nine by Fried) in this series. In their combined 5.2 innings of work, they have a 14.29 ERA. 

That alarming trend must change in Game 3. A win could shift the whole feel of this series, especially with the way the Yankees fought back in Game 2, scoring seven runs in a two-inning span after falling way behind. Aaron Judge looked sharp at the plate; Giancarlo Stanton broke out a little, too. Perhaps the lineup is beginning to percolate. And wunderkind Cam Schlittler, who smothered the Red Sox in the last series, is slated to pitch Game 4.

But until the Yanks actually win a game, the series has, for them, a dark cloud hovering close. Elimination is looming and the Jays are 10-5 against the Yanks this year, though the Bombers were 4-2 against Toronto at the Stadium. 

When you sign a big free agent contract to come to New York, you’re expected to crave these moments. You’re expected to deliver, too. 

Rodón’s got a fascinating chance here. A big performance could ink him into Yankee lore alongside some pretty remarkable names. 

Can he seize the moment and save the Yanks, even if just for one more day?

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Early Injuries To Key Sabres Players Can't Be An Excuse For Buffalo To Fail This Season

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (Timothy T. Ludwig, USA TODAY Images)

We said it earlier this summer, on more than one occasion – if the Buffalo Sabres intend on ending their Stanley Cup playoff drought at 14 years, they can’t afford to let the injury bug take a major bite out of their roster. Obviously, that’s something that only the Hockey Gods can control, but the Sabres simply don’t have the organizational depth to withstand the damage if someone meaningful is sidelined for a notable stretch of time.

With that in mind, if you’re a Sabres fan, you have ample reason to begin the season concerned for the Sabres on the health front. Because on Friday, Sabres coach Lindy Ruff revealed the news – Buffalo No. 1 goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and defenseman Michael Kesselring would begin the year in the injury ward. Luukkonen is out week-to-week with a lower-body injury, while Kesselring is also out week-to-week, this because of an undisclosed injury. 

In both cases, the Sabres had notable expectations for Luukkonen and Kesselring. Kesselring was on course to play on Buffalo’s second defense pairing after the Sabres acquired him this summer in the J.J. Peterka trade. The goaltending picture is a little easier for Buffalo management to handle, given there’s three other goalies – Alex Lyon, Devon Levi and Alexandar Georgiev – to potentially step up in Luukkonen’s absence, and given that the Sabres don’t want to put the weight of the world on youngster Levi’s shoulders, you have to assume Lyon and Georgiev will begin the year as Buffalo’s two goalies.

Of course, that plan could be entirely out the window if the Sabres can’t get solid performances out of Lyon and Georgiev. Buffalo’s desperation to be a playoff team this year could mean they do turn to Levi at some point – especially if Luukonen can’t return to the form he showed only a couple of seasons ago. A netminding crisis will almost assuredly cause Sabres GM Kevyn Adams to panic – and rightfully so, as his job security depends on it – and Levi will probably be their last line of defense to salvage their season.

As it stands, the Sabres are trying not to make eye contact with the injury bug and be 100 percent healthy once Luukkonen and Kesselring return to action. But coming out of the gate with two pieces of the puzzle on the sidelines is not a great harbinger on how things are going to unfold for them the rest of the way. 

Sabres Should Be Looking Into Trading For One Of These Maple Leafs Forwards-On-The-BlockSabres Should Be Looking Into Trading For One Of These Maple Leafs Forwards-On-The-BlockThe Toronto Maple Leafs are about to finish their 2025-26 training camp, and as it happens, the Maple Leafs are very deep at every position -- but certainly, the most depth they've got is on the wings. And as we'll exploain, we're telling you this because the Buffalo Sabres should be looking into acquiring into one of a few veteran Leafs wingers in particular: right winger/center Calle Jarnkrok, and left-wingers David Kampf and Nick Robertson.

There’s still 82 games to be played by the Sabres, and who knows – maybe this early adversity is a rallying point for Buffalo. Maybe they show the expectations on them have been unfairly lowered. Right now, there’s still plenty of time left for them to be the authors of their destiny.

That said, nobody will care to hear Buffalo’s excuses if injuries do cause the Sabres’ playoff hopes to dwindle and die on the vine. This is a bottom-line business the Sabres are in, and if their playoff drought extends to a 15th consecutive season, Buffalo won’t be able to couch it with lines like “moral victory” or any kind of victory, for that matter.

Sabres' Second Line Must Lead The Way For Buffalo's Forwards This YearSabres' Second Line Must Lead The Way For Buffalo's Forwards This YearThe Buffalo Sabres need a lot of things to go right for them to be a Stanley Cup playoff team this coming season. They need their goalies to pan out with strong performances. They need star defenseman Rasmus Dahlin to put on a defensive clinic and carrry Buffalo to a strong defensive game. And one thing could also be the difference between the Sabres missing or making the 2026 playoffs -- namely, the play of Buffalo's second line of forwards: center Ryan McLeod, and wingers Alex Tuch and Jason Zucker.

Healthy or unhealthy, the Sabres are going to be judged this year only by the bottom line in the wins and losses department. They’ve got to make do with whomever’s healthy enough to play, and let the chips fall where they may. 

And the ramifications that will follow will be well-earned, one way or another.

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Yesavage sets Blue Jays postseason record with 11 Ks, Toronto thumps Yankees 13-7 in ALDS Game 2

TORONTO (AP) — Rookie Trey Yesavage set a Blue Jays postseason record by striking out 11 in 5 1/3 no-hit innings, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit the first postseason grand slam in team history and Toronto beat the New York Yankees 13-7 on Sunday to take a 2-0 lead in the ALDS.

Daulton Varsho had two home runs among his four extra base hits, and Ernie Clement and George Springer also both homered as Toronto reached double figures in hits (15) and runs for the second straight game.

The Blue Jays had three home runs among their 14 hits Saturday in a 10-1 victory. They have as many home runs (eight) as strikeouts (seven) through two games.

Varsho went 4 for 5 with two doubles, scored four runs and drove in four. Guerrero went 3 for 5 and scored twice.

Cody Bellinger homered and drove in three runs and Ben Rice had two hits and two RBIs in a five-run seventh but Toronto won for the eighth time in nine home meetings with New York. The Blue Jays went 2-4 in six games at Yankee Stadium, where the series shifts for Game 3 on Tuesday night.

Yesavage (1-0) was selected by Toronto with the No. 20 pick last year in the amateur draft. The 22-year-old right-hander rose through four minor league levels this season before joining the Blue Jays and going 1-0 in three September starts.

Yesavage needed fewer than four innings to beat Toronto’s previous record for postseason strikeouts, eight, held by Dave Steib, David Price (twice) and Juan Guzmán.

Known for his elite split-finger fastball, Yesavage set a Blue Jays record by striking out nine Rays batters in his Sept. 15 debut. Eight of his 11 strikeouts Sunday came on the splitter. The other three came on fastballs that reached 96 mph.

Yesavage opened the game by striking out Trent Grisham on a splitter. He walked Aaron Judge on four pitches, then fanned Bellinger and Rice to start a streak of 12 straight outs that ended when Jazz Chisholm Jr. reached on Guerrero’s fielding error in the fifth.

Yesavage responded by getting Ryan McMahon to pop up and fanning Anthony Volpe for his 11th strikeout.

Yesavage struck out six straight over the third and fourth innings as Volpe, Austin Wells, Grisham, Judge, Bellinger and Rice were retired.

Left-hander Justin Bruihl came on to face Grisham after Yesavage threw 78 pitches, 48 for strikes. Manager John Schneider was booed as he came out to remove Yesavage with Toronto leading 12-0. The crowd of 44,7564 then roared until Yesavage came out for a curtain call, lifting his arms over his head at the top of the dugout steps.

Bruihl retired Grisham on a grounder before Judge reached on an infield single for New York’s first hit. Bellinger followed with a homer.

Yankees left-hander Max Fried (0-1) allowed seven runs and eight hits in 3-plus innings. He gave up seven runs in 33 1/3 innings in five September starts.

Fried went 11-1 with a 1.82 ERA in 16 starts after a Yankees loss in the regular season, but suffered another difficult start in Toronto. He was 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in two regular season road starts against the Blue Jays, giving up 10 runs, eight earned, five walks and nine hits, including two home runs.

Up next

Toronto RHP Shane Bieber, the 2020 AL Cy Young winner with Cleveland, is scheduled to start against Yankees LHP Carlos Rodón in Tuesday’s Game 3. Bieber went 4-2 with a 3.57 ERA in seven starts after returning from elbow surgery in August. Rodón allowed three runs and four hits in Game 2 of the Wild Card round against Boston, striking out six in six innings.