Gustafsson might lack some of the high-end offensive instincts and abilities that Smits has, but Gustafsson is a year younger and a bruising defender who skates very well for a player with a 6-foot-4 frame.
Like Smits, Gustafsson would fit in very nicely within the Panthers organization. The Panthers coaching staff and management value size on their blueline, highlighted by Seth Jones (6-foot-4), Aaron Ekblad (6-foot-4), and Niko Mikkola (6-foot-6). Even Gustav Forsling and Dmitry Kulikov are listed at 6-foot-1.
Gustafsson is still just 17 years old and is far from NHL-ready, but with patience, scouts believe Gustafsson could become a very solid top-four defender.
The 2025-26 season saw Gustafsson play most of the campaign with HV71 in the SHL, where he notched three assists in 27 games. With HV71’s U-20 team, he scored four goals and 12 points in 19 games, flashing the offensive upside he possesses.
At the recent U-18s, Gustaffson recorded a goal and five points in six games, leading all Swedish defenders in points and ranking fifth on the team.
Anything he brings offensively is a bonus to his stout defensive game. Indeed, he uses his mobility to move the puck, but, more importantly, he uses it for gap control and to pick off passes. Whether it’s while pinching in the offensive zone or attempting to cut down passes in the neutral zone, Gustaffson reads the play well and is quick to react.
In his own end, he has an active stick that knocks pucks off his opponents’ sticks, but his best trait is how he uses his body. Gustaffson shows no fear using his body to separate players from the puck. Whether it’s along the boards, while defending the front of his net, or when opponents are trying to find open spaces, Gustaffson does an excellent job of being physically involved.
If Gustaffson’s offensive game improves, mainly his shot and passing vision, there is possible top-pairing potential in the Swede’s game, but his defensive game is a safe bet for a middle-pairing defender.
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BOSTON, MA - MAY 28: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves celebrates with teammate Jorge Mateo #2 after hitting a grand slam in the sixth inning during the game between the Atlanta Braves and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Thursday, May 28, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Natalie Reid/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
With a matchup of Bryce Elder vs Kevin Gausman on the mound in game 1 of the series against Toronto and of the two-series homestand, the Braves are once again rolling with Jorge Mateo over Ha-Seong Kim at shortstop. Mateo is the hot hand and has been legitimately very good for Atlanta this season, providing solid defense at shortstop and surprisingly good offense.
Meanwhile the Blue Jays roll with George Springer leading off at DH and Vladdy batting third and playing first, though their offense has really struggled this year. Vladdy seems to have some batted ball luck that has gone against him, but Toronto hasn’t been the dominant team they hoped for. Let’s hope they stay that way for at least the weekend.
A year after finishing second for the award to Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar in 2025, Werenski put together another outstanding season for the Blue Jackets that pushed him into the top spot among voters in the Professional Hockey Writers Association over Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar and Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin.
"I think the biggest thing for me last year, being a finalist, is I wanted to prove to not only myself, but to everyone, that last season wasn’t a fluke and I could do it again," Werenski said. "I felt like I always had the talent, but in terms of my full game, I felt like last year was ... really my first breakout year, and I wanted to prove to myself that it wasn't just a one-off."
Mission accomplished.
"Obviously, we fell short of our ultimate goal, which was making the playoffs, but we made strides, and I definitely proved that it wasn’t just a fluke, and it wasn’t just a one-year thing and I can play at that level, and I can be in the conversation with those great defensemen," Werenski said. "Really proud of it."
The Norris Trophy voting tabulations were announced June 2 by the NHL, which released the news along with a video of Werenski getting the Trophy in a surprise visit from a camera crew June 24 while he and his wife, Odette, hosted a family get together with their newborn son, Hudson.
"I think the only people who knew were Odette and my brother [Brad], so just seeing my parents' reaction, everyone that was over, that’s the best part about it all is how surprised they were," Werenski said. "I definitely, maybe, thought something was coming, but like I said, until you actually see that it's here, and you hear the words, 'You're the Norris winner,' it's just in your mind. It's just a thought."
Werenski is the first Blue Jackets defenseman and sixth American-born player to win the Norris Trophy, joining Rod Langway, Chris Chelios, Brian Leetch, Adam Fox and Quinn Hughes. He trains with Hughes in Detroit during offseasons, and they became even closer while leading the U.S. to an Olympic gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy.
Hughes won the Norris Trophy in 2024.
"He just kept telling me all year, like, ‘This is yours to lose,’ and, ‘Go for it,’ and it gave me a ton of confidence," Werenski said. "So, I thought that was cool that I'm going to be up there with my peers and guys I've played against and guys that have pushed me to be better."
Older names included on the trophy left an impression, too, including former Detroit Red Wings captain Nicklas Lidstrom, a seven-time Norris winner. Werenski, who's from the Detroit suburb of Grosse Pointe, Michigan, grew up watching Lidstrom play. Now, their names are linked forever on the same trophy.
"One of the first names I looked for was Nick Lidstrom," Werenski said. "It’s not hard to find because he’s on there seven times, but that's probably the one that I really looked for right away. I grew up watching him, obviously, being from Detroit. I knew how special a player he was, and to win it once is an incredible feeling, but to do what he did is ... it’s insane."
He doesn't turn 29 until July, and he's become an elite offensive defenseman. His defensive play certainly factored into finishing first, but Werenski's unique offensive acumen is what put him over the top with 81 points on 22 goals and 59 assists in 75 games. Leading the Blue Jackets in scoring for the second consecutive season as a defenseman swayed enough voters to complete a memorable 16-month span.
Despite the Blue Jackets stumbling from playoff contention, he helped the U.S. win gold on a play he sparked in overtime of the gold medal game, stealing the puck from Canadian superstar Nathan MacKinnon and sending a pass to Hughes' brother, Jack, for the golden goal in a 2-1 victory.
Months earlier, Werenski also helped the U.S. break a long championship drought in May 2025 at the men’s world championships in Stockholm, Sweden, giving him two international gold medals playing for the U.S. in less than a year's time. Prior to that, he also helped the U.S. win a silver medal at the NHL's inaugural 2025 Four Nations Face-Off.
During each gold medal celebration, Werenski made sure to honor deceased former Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau along with his U.S. teammates, displaying his No. 13 jersey each time and taking it a step further in the Olympic celebration by carrying two of Gaudreau’s three young children onto the ice for the team's victory photo.
Three months later, Werenski became a father for the first time when Odette gave birth to Hudson. Now, on top of those career and life milestones, Werenski is the first Blue Jackets defensemen to win the Norris Trophy and a first-time recipient of the award, which is named after James E. Norris, a longtime Red Wings owner.
"You know, I think if you look back to [2025] world championships, even as far [back] as [Four Nations] two seasons ago, it’s been an awesome year and a half for me," Werenski said. "It’s a long list of accomplishments, and you know, I wouldn't be here without a great support system, and a great family and great friends, and this just caps off a really great two seasons for me, and I feel very honored. I feel very blessed."
Since the Jackets selected him eighth overall in 2015, Werenski has matured into a homegrown superstar and now the NHL’s top defenseman. That’s why former GM Jarmo Kekalainen, who drafted him, made Werenski the Blue Jackets’ top defenseman and highest-paid player July 29, 2021, by signing him to a six-year contract worth $59.5 million.
That deal, which has two seasons left, was announced about a month after Kekalainen traded Werenski’s former defense partner, Seth Jones, to the Chicago Blackhawks. The Jackets received an enticing return package that allowed them to draft forward Cole Sillinger 12th overall in 2021 and defenseman David Jiricek sixth overall in 2022, but the deal also made Werenski their top defenseman.
Aside from injuries that limited his availability for two years (2021-2023), Werenski has capitalized on the opportunity to play a huge role. In the past two seasons combined, he ranks second among all NHL defensemen in points [163], third in goals [45], fifth in assists [118], first in shots [558] and second in ice time [26:41].
He also tops every all-time defensive scoring record for the Blue Jackets by sitting first in points [465], goals [135], assists [330] and power-play goals [29] while also leading in games played [642] by defensemen.
Unlike many of his blue-line peers around the NHL, though, Werenski has skated with numerous partners on the Blue Jackets’ top defensive pairing since Jones left. The past two years, it's been Dante Fabbro for most of 2024-25 followed by a combination of Damon Severson, Ivan Provorov, Denton Mateychuk and Fabbro this past season.
Unfazed by the rotation, Werenski plugged along for another remarkable campaign that finished with a coveted NHL trophy. He's not done, either. Far from it.
"I don’t want to stop here," Werenski said. "I feel like the second you get complacent is the second you get passed up, and I want to keep playing for a long time. I want to play for my son, for my family. There’s so much motivation out there, and I still haven’t won the ultimate goal, which is the Stanley Cup. I really haven’t played in the playoffs or had much success in the playoffs, ever, so there's more motivation than ever for me to be even better next season to try and play in the playoffs."
The Yankees are moving hard-throwing prospectCarlos Lagrange to the bullpen in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, reports SNY MLB Insider Chelsea Janes.
The move paves the way for the 23-year-old right-hander to impact the big league club in the near future.
Lagrange, a near-consensus top 100 prospect, has a 4.41 ERA and 1.32 WHIP with 63 strikeouts in 49.0 innings over 11 starts this season in Triple-A.
The right-hander has a five-pitch arsenal, but relies heavily on a four-seam fastball that has averaged 98.9 mph this season in the minors and a hard slider.
He also features a sweeper, changeup, and two-seam fastball.
Lagrange could possibly be an impact starter for New York in 2027 and beyond, but is now an option to help a relief corps that has been leaking oil at times this year.
Closer David Bednar (4.50 ERA, 1.58 WHIP) has struggled, allowing earned runs in 10 of his 24 appearances. Meanwhile, Camilo Doval (5.06 ERA, 1.03 WHIP) has been up and down, though he has turned in three scoreless appearances in a row.
The Post’s Steve Serby spoke with Knicks owner James Dolan on Friday. They discussed myriad topics, including how much the Knicks mean to the city, how this team was built and if he’s allowed himself yet to dream of the Canyon of Heroes.
Q: Do you feel that this team represents New York … New York City?
A: It represents the people of New York City, yes. Absolutely. That’s New Yorkers, right? They’re tough, they’re gritty, they’re full of personality. But they’re also high-character individuals. You have a good sense of right and wrong and what’s fair and what’s not, and if you cross it with ’em, you’re gonna get a New York hello. That’s New Yorkers, right? We’re not subtle, but we’re very straightforward. New Yorkers, they love effort. They don’t just love winners, they love effort … sincere effort. And if there’s nothing else you’re getting from the Knicks, you’re getting sincere effort. And so, I do think they represent New York.
Q: Your general thoughts about the Spurs and Thunder (the Spurs hadn’t yet beaten the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals).
A: I’m happy it’s going seven games. Because I think we’re gonna be ready. I’m very optimistic.
I think we’re going to win. Either team, I think we’re going to win.
So bring ’em on!
I’m excited for New York. The Knicks right now are providing something to New York that we don’t have, that we need: some optimism, some enthusiasm. Everybody, regardless of your political persuasion, everybody’s a Knicks fan, if you haven’t noticed.
Knicks owner James Dolan opens up to The Post’s Steve Serby about the team’s run to the NBA Finals. Charles Wenzelberg/NY Post
Q: How would you sum up why you believe this team will win the championship?
A: Because they’re a team. Because they have heart, and they have that X factor in heart. And we’ve seen it all season long, but we’ve really seen it in the playoffs, and in talking to them, they’re gonna be almost impossible to beat. Because they have that heart, and you’re never gonna get them to quit. They will never quit. That’s how winners win.
Q: You sound like Joe Namath guaranteeing a Super Bowl.
A: I ain’t guaranteeing nuthin’ (laugh).
But I believe!
Q: What compelled you to issue your NBA Finals-or-Bust proclamation in January?
A: That’s why I don’t do a lot of interviews — I’m usually very frank (smile). I did not go into the interview thinking, “Oh I’m gonna say this.” But it was on my mind, and I knew that the rest of the organization knew it too — we all knew it. We knew it from the moment that we said goodbye to Thibs (Tom Thibodeau) and we hired Mike (Brown), that we were gonna be in a hot spot because we just made the conference finals. We didn’t win, but you don’t make a change unless you’re expecting to do better. We didn’t change ’cause we wanted it to be worse! To me, it was a little obvious, so I just said it because it was obvious.
Q: What convinced you that Mike Brown was the right man for this job?
A: Leon (Rose) convinced me (laugh). When we knew we were gonna make the change, we didn’t tell the players about making a change. We first had talked to all the players and I was there, and then sat down with Leon, and we talked about what it is we want in a coach. ’Cause we knew we had a good coach in Thibs. We weren’t just going for a change, right? There was something we wanted, and we laid it out, really on paper, what we were looking for in a coach. I would say the No. 1 quality was collaborative, that was a big piece … somebody who strategically could avail himself of all the minds around him and put it together, particularly at game time, between halves, that was a big thing. And we were looking for flexibility. So we laid out all these sort of characteristics that we were looking for, and then I set Leon loose. And he interviewed a lot of different guys, and he came back with Mike, and I’m like, “OK.” Leon did all the work. I just blessed it.
Q: Your thoughts on Wemby (Victor Wembanyama)?
A: He’s obviously a great player. They’re a young team. They certainly look to me like they’re gonna be in the picture for years to come. But then again, so do we.
Q: Do you allow yourself to dream about Jim Dolan on a Canyon of Heroes float?
A: I’d rather get through the first two games. If we are able to at least take one in one of the away games, then I think you can dream about that. But look, if we don’t win — I think we will — but if by some chance we don’t, we will be back next year. So, at some point or another, I hope to be going down the Canyon of Heroes, yes.
Q: What do you like best about the way the Knicks are playing?
A: Their willingness to sacrifice has been just off the charts. They’re all like this, whatever it takes to win, and don’t worry about me, I’ll do whatever it takes. That’s a sacrifice. We played some opponents who haven’t actually had that kind of a commitment. I’m not gonna name names, but you probably know who they are. I think that’s what sets this team apart, and it’s probably what I like most about them right now.
Q: What makes Jalen Brunson great?
A: (Laugh) Well, at first I would have said, and I don’t think you can say this anymore, is how underestimated he was. I don’t think people are underestimating him anymore. They were underestimating him to now they’re double-teaming him, now he’s moving the ball around, and how focused he is — don’t get too high, don’t get too low, that’s a big part of Jalen. He is probably the most focused Knick we have.
Q: Would you compare his leadership style to (Mark) Messier’s?
A: Mark was much more overt. A little more demonstrative in his leadership style. But very much, Mark led the team. And Jalen very much leads the team. Different styles, but same effect leadership-wise. Everybody keys off of Jalen, and that was the same thing true with Mark. Mark used to yell at everybody (laugh). Jalen does it in his own style too, much quieter. But still quite effective.
Q: Why was it important to trade for KAT (Karl-Anthony Towns)?
A: First off, we had Isaiah (Hartenstein) before KAT, and we lost Isaiah because the rules did not allow us to hang onto him. By the CBA etcetera, we were only allowed to offer him X amount of money. Other teams were allowed to offer him more. Probably should try and correct that in the next CBA with KAT. Our first preference would have been to keep going with Isaiah. So once we lost Isaiah, we knew we needed a big man, we needed a center, a focal point there. I knew KAT from before, I actually know him for about four or five years. I knew that he liked New York, he wanted to come. I was thrilled because to have an option like KAT was heaven-sent.
Q: Do you like the way he’s become a facilitator?
A: I love the way … he has grown so much in this last year. He’s very much a team player. He’s made personal sacrifices in order to make this work. He’s willing to listen, he’ll change. He’ll do most anything that the coach asked him to do.
Q: What convinced you that Leon Rose was the right man to bring your Knicks back?
A: I obviously have been doing this for a while before Leon showed up, and it was much more about just getting convinced that no matter if you get the most brilliant strategist in the world, you have to have talent in order to win. And so I thought about the guy who would be best in bringing talent to New York, and Leon’s name was at the very top of the list.
Q: What have you observed about him as an executive that is so impressive to you?
A: The way he deals with the whole organization is different. He almost has an agent’s mentality about it. He’s very collaborative. He’s very big on creating a feeling of family inside of the team. It starts with him and Wes (William Wesley) who do that. When he took the job, I think he thought long and hard about how he wanted to do it. I think this is how he wanted to do it.
Knicks owner James Dolan greets center Karl-Anthony Towns during a game on April 3, 2026 in which Towns did not play. Jason Szenes for the NY Post
Q: What have you learned about OG (Anunoby)?
A: Leon loved OG’s game. So when he came and I got to know OG and watched him play, I loved his game too. The thing about OG, he’s another guy who’ll do whatever you ask him to do. But the thing about him is that he still is significantly underestimated — he only made second-team defense. That was like ridiculous. I don’t think we know how good OG can be. We’ve seen flashes of things with him where he’s an incredible player. His game is not overly demonstrative, it’s not flashy, etcetera, but man, he can shut a guy down, but he can also hit the 3, he can drive the basket. … He doesn’t make a big deal out of it, doesn’t ask anybody to make a big deal out it. He’ll sit a little bit off to the side and be a part of the team and not say, “Hey, I can do this so I should do it.” That’s not him. When they assign him to guard somebody, that guy’s not gonna have his best game, that’s for sure.
Q: Does Josh Hart remind you of John Starks in any way?
A: (Laugh) Yeah … a lot personality-wise, I think so. Their effect on the team is really quite similar from those days. John would come into a game and light the team up just like Josh comes into the game and he lights the team up. He’ll come out of nowhere and get that rebound, and John was the same way, and for some reason it just energizes the rest of the team.
Q; How difficult was it for you to part with five first-round picks for Mikal Bridges?
A: It took a little thought (smile). Look, that’s the NBA. The idea was that Mikal was a building block for the team we wanted, which is the team we have on the floor now. We didn’t think we’d be in a lottery — we don’t expect to be in a lottery for quite some time. So, they weren’t quite as valuable … and Mikal is another player who I think we’re starting to understand just how impactful he could be. The thing about the whole team — I’m sure you see this — is you look at other teams in the NBA and there’s like one or two players who are the key players on the team, and when you see the other teams defend against those teams, they’re keying on them.
The problem with the Knicks is: Go ahead, pick one. Who are you gonna key on, right? Jalen? No problem … KAT’s right there. With the depth of the team, and the ability of any of those players to take over a game, and becomes a big problem for the opponent.
James Dolan believes the Knicks’ “sincere effort” is representative of New Yorkers. Getty Images
Q: When did you start handing out basketballs to fans after games?
A: I did it for a while before anybody figured it out. For years, I’ve come down after the game, sometimes we lose, sometimes we win, and I see the crowd out there, and I wanted to connect. So I decided, well, that was the best way to do it — just stop down there, and say hello for 30 seconds, give a kid a ball.
Q: Does it hearten you that Patrick Ewing has praised you for making the alumni feel a part of this run?
A: I’m sure glad they feel that way. It’s been intentional. This year, more than any other year, we’re all feeling a little like family. I’m really happy Patrick feels that ’cause he’s like our most important alumnus.
Q: Why do the Knicks mean so much to New York City?
A: They always have too. I’ve been a Knicks fan forever, right, going all the way back to the Frazier-Bradley-Reed Knicks. The town has always loved this basketball team. Part of it is definitely the franchise itself, that is the Knicks and it’s ingrained in the city a little like the Yankees. But the other part of I think is that these teams, like this team, when they have some personality, they’re very likeable. And when you meet them actually, they are likeable. It’s not a facade. And basically what you see is kinda who they are. And I think that really resonates with New Yorkers who like genuine people.
Q: What is Knicks Fever like when you walk around the city?
A: I don’t walk around the city (laugh), at least not so that I can be recognized. Much harder for my players. It’s everywhere. It’s incredible — it’s everywhere. You go to your dentist — they’re “Ah, Knicks!” Whenever I do go around the city and people know I’m there, they just are really excited.
James Dolan (r.) greets Spike Lee (l.) after the Knicks sweep the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference finals on May 25, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
Q: How heartbreaking was it losing Patrick after that magical ride in 1999 (to the Finals after making the playoff as an 8 seed)?
A: Losing is tough, even when it’s the championship in the Finals. Losing … losing sucks. And you don’t ever really get used to it, but you learn how to handle it. You can sense it coming when things are turning bad. You can also sense when things are going well. … That game against Cleveland, where we came back from 22 points, I was like, “They’ll have to play perfectly in order to do this.” And they did. I was amazed, and sorta felt like it was like an out-of-body experience (laugh).
Q: You lost in five to the Spurs in 1999.
A: I don’t try and remember the losses. There’s only one loss that sticks in my head, and I’ve never been able to shake it. It was against the Buffalo Sabres in the playoffs, and were up, I think, by two goals in the third period, and it slipped away. And of course you know who stole it from us was this young player on Buffalo named Chris Drury (laugh). I’ll never forget coming home from that game and just feeling so devastated.
Q: There was no Knick loss that left you devastated like that?
A: Not like that.
Q: When Larry Johnson hit that four-point play in the ’99 conference finals against the Pacers, was that the loudest you heard the Garden?
A: Actually, Game 2 of the Cleveland series was incredibly loud. That Cleveland game might be the loudest I’ve heard the Garden.
Q: What do you recall about the ’94 Knicks?
A: ITT was the managing partner of the team, so I was still pretty much on the sideline, rooting but not part of the organization.
Q: That team was tough.
A: I remember (Charles) Oakley and (Anthony) Mason, and yes, they were brutal, a little like Detroit was, very, very physical.
Q: Do you remember Game 7 of the 1970 Finals, the first Knicks championship, when Willis limped out of the tunnel?
A: My dad (Charles Dolan) at that time was running Manhattan Cable TV, and had gotten the games for the cable customers, and along with the rights we got four seats, in the press box. We used to go to all the games. I think it was Marty Glickman who was the guy who was calling the game (on Manhattan Cable Television). Marty Glickman used to come over to the house all the time. My brothers brought me, we used to drive in, we parked the car at Woodhaven, and take the D train in from Woodhaven.
Q: Who was your favorite Knick growing up?
A: Oh, Clyde.
Q: Did you play guard in the schoolyard?
A: Yeah … everybody loved Clyde. I also loved Dick Barnett. Dick Barnett had that shot that sorta originated from the back of his ear, it was a jump shot, but then he kicked his feet back when it was in the air. I used to go to those games with my brothers. That was an amazing team.
Q: What does this Knicks run mean to you personally?
A: I have not sat down with myself and gone over that yet because I’m afraid I’ll start crying (smile).
Q: What would your message be to the Knicks fans about these Finals, and this team?
A: They don’t need any encouragement, duh (laugh). I guess I’d tell them thank you … thank you for all the support over the years, and thank you for making this so special, and I hope we deliver for you.
HOUSTON, TX - MAY 31: Jacob Misiorowski #32 of the Milwaukee Brewers pitches during the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on Sunday, May 31, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Logan Riely/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Every day, Pinstripe Alley offers updates on what the Yankees’ top American League opponents are up to through the Rivalry Roundup. The AL East is well-trodden ground there, but with the end of the month upon us, we’re going to take a peek around MLB as a whole and check in with each of the other five divisions. Who’s surprising? Who’s underwhelming? Who’s simply mediocre at the moment? Read on and find out what’s going on in the NL Central.
(Note: Records and standings are up to date through games played on Sunday, May 31st)
First Place: Milwaukee Brewers (35-21)
Top Position Player: Brice Turang (2.0 fWAR) Top Pitcher: Jacob Misiorowski (3.0 fWAR)
When we did our End-of-April check-in, the Brewers sat fourth in the NL Central with a record only slightly above .500. Over the last month, they caught fire, going 19-7 in May and vaulting to the division lead, with a couple games to spare.
As we saw when the Yankees played them during that hot stretch, Milwaukee has been led by young ace Jacob Misiorowski, who gets more ridiculous by the game. He allowed just one earned run in all of May, putting his ERA for the month at 0.23. He hasn’t been the losing pitcher of record since April 19th.
Even more remarkable about what Misiorowski and the rest of the Brewers’ pitching staff has done is that their offense averaged just 4.1 runs per game during May, and the team still managed to put up one of the best months around the sport.
Top Position Player: JJ Wetherholt (2.5 fWAR) Top Pitcher: Dustin May (1.1 fWAR)
Not a lot of people would’ve necessarily picked the Cardinals to be good and in the playoff picture like they currently are. (They would be the second NL Wild Card if the season ended today.) They’ve managed to get off to this good start largely on the back of their emerging young talent. Rookie JJ Wetherholt is arguably the current leader for NL Rookie of the Year, posting a 123 wRC+ with defense that also grades out extremely well. Jordan Walker is starting to put the pieces together after a couple years in the majors. Iván Herrera is a pretty legit hitter.
The biggest concern for the Cardinals will probably be their rotation. Michael McGreevy is their only current regular starter who has a better than average ERA. None of their regular starters have an ERA over five, but they’ll certainly hope the rest of their rotation can tighten things up a bit so they don’t have to overexpose their bullpen down the stretch.
Tied-Third Place: Chicago Cubs (32-28, 5 GB)
Top Position Player: Pete Crow-Armstrong (2.4 fWAR) Top Pitcher: Ben Brown (1.6 fWAR)
On May 8th, the Cubs beat the Rangers to extend their ongoing win streak to 10 games, while maintaining a 3.5-game lead in the division. Since that day, they’ve gone 5-16 and are now five games back in the Central. In general, the Cubs have been quite the streaky team this year. They’ve had two separate 10-game winning streaks and also have had a 10-game losing one.
Largely, their offense has not been the problem, as they only have one regular starter — Dansby Swanson — who is a below average hitter. Their main issue is that their rotation is a bit of a mess. Cade Horton, Edward Cabrera, and Matthew Boyd are all currently on the injured list, and even before that Cabrera was only OK and Boyd was just kinda bad. They recently called up former first-round draft pick Jordan Wicks, and he’s managed to put up -0.5 rWAR in just two starts. This Cubs’ team is the dictionary definition of one that will probably look to trade for a starter.
Top Position Player: Brandon Lowe (2.3 fWAR) Top Pitcher: Braxton Ashcraft (2.0 fWAR)
Whereas the Cubs will be disappointed to be at 32-28 at this stage of the season, the Pirates will be happy with the season so far.
While he’s still quite excellent(2.89 ERA, 1.9 fWAR), the Pirates are no longer just the Paul Skenes Show. Braxton Ashcraft has been very good in the rotation himself, and there are a couple other young starters with potential around, even if they have middling results this season. They also just got Jared Jones back from the IL, an intriguing young arm prior to his Tommy John surgery.
Pittsburgh’s call-up of the top prospect in baseball, Konnor Griffin, made some headlines earlier this season, and he’s been pretty good himself, although is currently on the IL. However around him, they’ve gotten some very impressive seasons at the plate, including a potential breakout campaign from Oneil Cruz, who has a 120 wRC+.
Top Position Player: Elly De La Cruz (2.7 fWAR) Top Pitcher: Chase Burns (1.6 fWAR)
Through April, the Reds were the pleasant surprise package of the NL Central, as they say atop the standings.
However, as mentioned then, that record came in part due to their success in one-run games. Well, the chickens have come home to roost a bit in that department. After being 7-0 in one-run games through April, the Reds are now 9-6 in them. They lost eight games to start May, including three in a row via walk-off against the Cubs.
They still have Elly De La Cruz being awesome, and Sal Stewart will be another in the NL ROTY running. In the rotation, Chase Burns is very impressive. But you really had to squint to see how they led the division through April, and now their record makes a bit more sense.
Carolina is the epitome of continuity, returning to the Final for the first time since 2006 under the steady, long-term vision of head coach Rod Brind’Amour. Conversely, Vegas pulled off a stunning mid-season pivot, replacing head coach Bruce Cassidy with John Tortorella with just eight games left in the regular season. The gutsy gamble has unlocked a highly physical, locked-in version of the Golden Knights.
Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes: what to know
When: June 2, 8 p.m. ET
Where: Lenovo Center (Charlotte, North Carolina)
Channel: ABC
Streaming: DIRECTV (try it free)
The series continues on Thursday with Game 2.
Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes Game 1 start time
Game 1of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Golden Knights and Hurricanes is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET tonight (June 2).
How to watch Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes for free
If you don’t have cable, you’ll need a live TV streaming service to stream the Stanley Cup Finals for free.
DIRECTV is our favorite service for watching sports live for free thanks to its five day free trial and the number of sports channels included in packages. We recommend the premium Choice plan, which includes ABC among its 90+ live channels. Right now, you can get $30 off your first month after the free trial is up.
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Sling TV is another affordable way to watch TV live and stream NHL games; its Select plan includes ABC and starts at $19.99/month.
This article was written by Angela Tricarico, Commerce Streaming Reporter for Post Wanted Shopping, Page Six, and Decider.com. Angela keeps readers up to date with cord-cutter-friendly deals, and information on how to watch your favorite sports teams, TV shows, and movies on every streaming service. Not only does Angela test and compare the streaming services she writes about to ensure readers are getting the best prices, but she’s also a superfan specializing in the intersection of shopping, tech, sports, and pop culture. When she’s not writing about (or watching) TV, movies, and sports, she’s also keeping up on the underrated perfume dupes at Bath & Body Works and testing headphones. Prior to joining Decider and The New York Post in 2023, she wrote about streaming and consumer tech at Insider Reviews.
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - MARCH 20: Allen Graves #22 of the Santa Clara Broncos shoots the ball against Brandon Garrison #10 of the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 20, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images
With the NBA draft just 3 weeks away, it was finally time to do our first mock draft with the draft order fully set.
We sat down on Monday night and drafted all 30 spots, mixing some realistic (and unrealistic) trades to spice it up. Here’s the whole thing if you want to watch the shenanigans.
Without further ado, here is version 3.0 of the Mavericks Moneyball mock draft.
1. Washington Wizards – Darryn Peterson (G, Kansas)
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 22: Darryn Peterson #22 of the Kansas Jayhawks reacts after the game against the St. John's Red Storm in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
While this pick would be shocking on draft night, I do not believe AJ Dybantsa is the locked-in first overall pick. Peterson would bring a dynamic skillset next to Trae Young, and could help to propel winning faster than Dybansta.
2. Utah Jazz – AJ Dybantsa (F, BYU)
No player is more of a dream fit than Dybantsa to the Jazz. There have been rumors about a potential trade-up to make this pairing happen, but here they are able to draft the sensational scorer 2nd overall.
3. Memphis Grizzlies – Cameron Boozer (F/C, Duke)
No surprises here; Boozer is the most analytically dominant player in this draft, going to the moat analytically slanted team in the NBA.
While we floated a possible trade scenario involving OKC, I heavily doubt the Grizzlies would trade this pick under any circumstances.
4. Chicago Bulls – Caleb Wilson (F, North Carolina)
The Bulls are one of the most rudderless teams in the league, but Caleb Wilson could change that. He immediately could become the compass that points this organization out of the darkness.
5. Los Angeles Clippers – Keaton Wagler (G, Illinois)
The first of the guard prospects leaves the board at 5, giving the Clippers a running-mate for Darius Garland.\
6. Brooklyn Nets Mikel Brown Jr. (G, Louisville)
CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA – FEBRUARY 28: Mikel Brown Jr. #0 of the Louisville Cardinals looks to pass the ball as Jestin Porter #1 of the Clemson Tigers defends him during the second half at Littlejohn Coliseum on February 28, 2026 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Katie DeVaney/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Brooklyn Nets desperately need upside, and no guard in this class has higher upside than Brown Jr. He would immediately become their franchise cornerstone, and could rectify the lackluster 2025 draft-class.
7. Sacramento Kings – Darius Acuff (G, Arkansas)
While there has been Kingston Flemings buzz for the Kings, I cannot imagine them passing on Acuff.
8. Atlanta Hawks – Aday Mara (C, Michigan)
After the Kristaps Porzingis trade the Hawks opened up a large need at center. Mara adds dominant size, rebounding, and sneaky playmaking that fills the Hawks biggest need.
HOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 26: Kingston Flemings #4 of the Houston Cougars dribbles against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Flemings at 9 feels like a dream, and lessens the pain of the Mavericks falling to 9. Flemings would bring a much needed injection of speed and playmaking to a guard room that desperately needs it, and would be the perfect running-mate long term next to Cooper Flagg.
10. Milwaukee Bucks – Nate Ament (F, Tennesee)
With the inevitable trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo looming, the Bucks swing for upside in Ament.
11. San Antonio Spurs (via Warriors) – Yaxel Lendeborg (F, Michigan)
The first trade of the mock has the Spurs jumping up 9 spots for Lendeborg. The Michigan forward would bring much needed size for the Spurs on the wing, and could help contribute to winning right away.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder – Brayden Burries (G, Arizona)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – APRIL 04: Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats looks on against the Michigan Wolverines in the Final Four of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium on April 04, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
A pick that will frustrate Mavericks fans, as Burries is a perfect fit for the Thunder, and would only strengthen their hard-nosed, defensive identity.
13. Miami Heat – Cameron Carr (G,F Baylor)
If you want freaky measurables and supreme athleticism, look no further than Cam Carr. The Baylor guard would bring much need excitement to a dull Miami team.
14. Charlotte Hornets – Jayden Quaintance (C, Kentucky)
The Hornets desperately need more size on the interior, and while Quanintance does have real injury concerns, his upside on the defensive end is tremendous.
15. Chicago Bulls – Hannes Steinbach (C, Washington)
Paring Caleb Wilson with a center with shooting chops is a match made in heaven and would give the Bulls their front-line of the future.
16. Memphis Grizzlies – LaBaron Philon Jr. (G, Alabama)
With Ja Morant’s departure feeling inevitable, the Grizzlies scoop up Philon who fell in this mock. Philon is a top 10 player on my big board, giving the Grizzlies great value at 16.
17. Dallas Mavericks (via OKC) – Allen Graves (F, Santa Clara)
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI – MARCH 20: Allen Graves #22 of the Santa Clara Broncos celebrates a basket against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Enterprise Center on March 20, 2026 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Perhaps the most divisive moment on Monday night’s stream was selecting Allen Graves over Morez Johnson Jr. While I understand the sentiment, Graves is a perfect modern-day NBA wing, and fits perfectly next to Cooper Flagg. The cost of moving up was P.J. Washington, who Graves would effectively replace in the Mavericks rotation.
The first crazy trade of the stream happened at 18, as our stand-in GM’s agreed on a Rudy Gobert to the Hornets trade, with the Timberwolves getting pick 18. Okorie would finally give the Wolves another great ball handler to pair with Anthony Edwards.
19. Toronto Raptors – Bennet Stirtz (G, Iowa)
The Raptors are in desperate need of another scoring option, and Stirtz would provide immediate 3-level scoring that the Raptors desperately need.
20. Golden State Warriors (via SAS) – Morez Johnson Jr. (F, Michigan)
The Warriors trade back 9 spots and end up with a player that many have top 15. Johnson Jr. would provide an immediate spark while giving the Warriors a player for the post Steph Curry era.
21. Detroit Pistons – Isaiah Evans (G, Duke)
The Pistons could despertely use more floor spacing, and Evans provides that in spades while not effecting their defensive mentality.
22. Philadelphia 76ers – Dailyn Swain (F, Texas)
Swain fell a bit in this mock, but makes perfect sense for the 76ers who could use more slashing and self creation on the wing.
23. Atlanta Hawks – Christian Anderson (G, Texas Tech)
After taking Aday Mara at 8 in this mock, the Hawks fill their other big need by adding Anderson who brings exciting shooting and creation as a guard to replace CJ Mccolum.
24. New York Knicks – Chris Cenac Jr. (C, Houston)
With Mitchell Robinson’s future in question, the Knicks could search for a replacement. Cenac is raw, but has tremendous upside and potential, and won’t have to contribute right away.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MARCH 21: Joshua Jefferson #2 of the Iowa State Cyclones shoots a free throw during the second half against the Lipscomb Bisons in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Fiserv Forum on March 21, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Another trade! This time sending Daniel Gafford for the 25th pick, selecting Joshua Jefferson. Jefferson is a unique and well rounded forward with real defensive upside who could also become a small ball center.
26. Denver Nuggets – Luigi Suigo (C, Italy)
The Nuggets have been without a player that could spell Nikola Jokic for years. Suigo is incredibly raw, but his 7’4 frame could prove intriguing for a league that features Victor Wembanyama.
27. Boston Celtics – Henri Veesaar (C, North Carolina)
The Celtics tried in vain to solve their center woes at the trade deadline last season, and will be looking to upgrade the position again. Veesaar bring a large frame and shooting upside that could be tantalizing for the Celtics.
The Nets received this pick by absorbing Julius Randle’s contract in the aforementioned Rudy Gobert trade. The Nets need to swing on upside, and Peat has some of the highest in this class.
29. Cleveland Cavaliers – Karim Lopez (F, New Zealand)
The Cavaliers are in desperate need for a wing, and Lopez could step in and help right away. Lopez is raw but very talented, multiple things the Cavaliers need.
30. Dallas Mavericks – Meleek Thomas (G, Arkansas)
SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 25: Meleek Thomas #1 of the Arkansas Razorbacks shoots the ball during the Sweet Sixteen Practice Day at SAP Center on March 25, 2026 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The 4th and final pick for the Mavericks in this mock draft is one that seeks to address the lack of shooting. Thomas is an elite shooter who can play both guard spots, and could fit next to Kingston Flemings.
The Knicks are four wins away from their first NBA title since 1973, but Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs stand in their way.
Wembanyama is one of the most physically gifted athletes to ever play in the NBA. At 7-foot-4, 235 pounds, Wembanyama is a two-way force, winning this season’s Defensive Player of the Year award while also averaging 25.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, 1.0 steal, and 3.1 blocks per game.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Wembanyama praised the Knicks and said he expects them to come out with a purpose in the series.
“It’s a great team of experienced guys who are not here by chance,” Wembanyama said. “They play with relentless effort over the years, and very different career paths for all of them. They’re right where they’re supposed to be, in my opinion, and all of them are going to be super hungry in their own way.”
Just 22 years old, Wembanyama has been a force for the Spurs during their playoff run, averaging 23.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks.
In five career regular season games against the Knicks, Wembanyama has averaged 30.4 points, 14.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks. That excludes a performance in the NBA Cup Championship where the Knicks limited him to 18 points and six rebounds.
He’ll obviously present quite the challenge for the Knicks on both sides of the floor, forcing the Knicks to stay within their gameplan to try to slow him down.
“Obviously, he’s a special talent and the NBA’s blessed to have him and to be able to showcase his talent to the world,” said Karl-Anthony Towns. “For us, we just have to have discipline in our gameplan and execute at a high level.”
“Watching him as a player, it’s pretty unbelievable,” said Jalen Brunson, “the things he’s able to do on both sides of the ball, people have never really seen before for a person at his size. It’s incredible to watch from a fan’s perspective.
“As an opposing player, he’s someone you constantly have to be on watch for. You just never know the things that he’s capable of doing. That’s why our game-planning and gameplay discipline and attention to details are so important, because he’s pretty incredible.”
While Wembanyama has led the way for San Antonio, he’s far from the only threat the Spurs possess. Five other San Antonio players are averaging double-digit points this postseason (Stephon Castle, De’Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie), and the Knicks know they’re facing a very deep Spurs team that goes far beyond Wembanyama’s lengthy reach.
“They’re a very versatile team, very deep,” said OG Anunoby. “They have talent all over the court at all positions. They can all shoot, drive, do everything. They rebound really well too. If they’re getting the rebound, they can push, one-man fastbreak or really just push the pace. They speed the game up. They do a great job of doing that.”
Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals tips off in San Antonio on Wednesday night at 8:30 p.m.
So the fact that Judge is now sidelined with what the team is calling a bone bruise near his right rib cage, which is impacting his shoulder when he swings, is certainly alarming.
Aaron Boone said Judge, out of the lineup on Tuesday against Cleveland in The Bronx, got imaging Monday after the injury had been “nagging for a couple of weeks” and worsened over the weekend against the A’s in Sacramento.
“I noticed it on a couple swings,” Boone said.
Judge received imaging Monday and was scheduled to meet with a doctor Tuesday to determine the extent of the injury.
“Hopefully it’s day to day [or] a few days,” Boone said. “It could be longer based on how he’s feeling. Hopefully we avoided something serious.”
Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) looks on during the seventh inning against the Athletics. Neville E. Guard-Imagn Images
While Judge still has some of the best numbers in the game, he mostly struggled in May.
Now, his June is off to a worrisome start.
Dr. Spencer Stein, NYU Langone sports orthopedic surgeon, said that the type of injury Judge suffered can have a wide range of healing time.
“It needs rest,’’ Dr. Stein said by phone. “This injury can happen with repetitive overuse, so it could be as simple as resting for a week or two, but if it’s more like a stress fracture, that could be more like 8-10 weeks.”
That’s far from a worst-case scenario for the Yankees, who overcame Judge’s brief injured list stint last season when he suffered a flexor strain in his right elbow that impacted much of his second half, but were derailed in 2023 by the impact of a torn ligament in his right big toe when they missed the playoffs.
Boone said the injury may have been behind Judge’s slump.
In his previous 22 games, Judge was 17-for-82 with just six extra-base hits, 14 walks and 26 strikeouts and he also went through a 2-for-26 rut late last month, which featured seven straight strikeouts.
Dr. Stein said the bone bruise could affect Judge’s swing path or weaken the swing.
Judge had four hard-hit balls on Saturday against the A’s, but little to show for it in Sacramento, when Boone approached the slugger.
“I said something to him this weekend and was paying close attention to it the last couple days,” Boone said.
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Without Judge, José Caballero started in right field on Tuesday.
Jasson Domínguez, sidelined with a sprained left shoulder after crashing into the fence in left field at the Stadium last month, is set to face live batting practice for the first time on Wednesday and could begin a minor league rehab assignment Friday.
Max Fried has been out for over two weeks with a bone bruise in his left elbow, but Boone said there’s no comparison between the injuries because Fried is a pitcher.
Even with Judge’s numbers being down for the season — and especially in the past few weeks — the Yankees offense has been solid, entering Tuesday fourth in the majors in runs scored. They also scored 47 runs in their five games on the trip.
“Hopefully we avoided something serious,’’ Boone said.
We got word that the Colorado Avalanche granted the Nashville Predators permission to speak with Chris MacFarland about the Predators’ General Manager position. That news quickly led to the announcement of his hiring and his move on from the Avalanche organization.
CMac, thank you for 11 seasons of hard work and dedication to our organization and for helping bring another Stanley Cup to Colorado.
The former GM in Colorado just so happens to be proven and beloved Avalanche legend Joe Sakic, who will now resume the duties he held for the Avalanche from 2014 to 2021.
It looks like Joe Sakic will resume his GM duties in Colorado for the “foreseeable future.” #GoAvsGo
Sakic was promoted to President of Hockey Operations in 2022, at which time Chris MacFarland was promoted to GM of the Avalanche. He and Sakic worked together to build the 2022 Cup champion and every Avs team since then.
After Colorado’s untimely and unexpected elimination from the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, fans and pundits looked to see what changes would result from the collapse.
Well, we have an answer: Chris MacFarland out, Sakic back in, and we have word that the Avalanche will not be moving on from Jared Bednar.
Also, about Colorado: there is word Jared Bednar is staying as the Avalanche’s coach
Now, I’m not going to pretend I have been a fan of every single move we’ve seen MacFarland make over his tenure in Colorado, but I will say he did plenty to prove that any team in the league would do well to secure his services.
He successfully re-vamped an Avalanche crease that was costing the team dearly, leveraged Mikko Rantanen for a 100-point scorer that’s signed into the future, and a depth centerman that could be a focal part of the bottom six for years to come.
Most impressively, he helped Sakic form the stacked 2022 Stanley Cup Champion team.
I would argue the “cup window” pressured MacFarland into short-sighted dealings, and where I see his shortcomings, I really see the risk side of a high-risk/high-reward strategy.
Most fans and pundits agree with the philosophy because you can’t waste Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar’s prime to develop younger, less proven talent.
Announcing the Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award finalists… 🏆 #NHLAwards
This award is presented annually to recognize the work of the top general manager in the NHL. pic.twitter.com/2Z45rPNabJ
When Joe Sakic got the GM gig in 2014, fellow Avs legend Patrick Roy was the head coach of a team with budding superstar talent in Nathan MacKinnon, but Roy’s time as head coach was stained by a sophomore slump for MacK and an older, less successful group in 2015. That, along with issues with roster control and management, led to Roy’s leaving in 2016 just ahead of training camp.
When the Avalanche looked for a replacement, Joe Sakic chose Jared Bednar, who many viewed as a shoo-in for the gig as soon as Roy left. With little time to get prepared, Bednar’s Colorado Avalanche stumbled out of the gate.
Many viewed Bednar’s hiring as a huge risk as he had zero NHL coaching experience at the time, but had won at every level below.
When Bednar’s Avalanche only amassed 48 points in Colorado’s worst regular season ever, Joe Sakic gave Bednar a vote of confidence in the following quote for the Denver Post.
“As I told you last time, there is no thought otherwise. He’s coming back… I like the way Jared handles himself. He didn’t make excuses. He came to work every day.”
We all know what happened after that, but I’ll sum it up: Jared Bednar won a cup at the NHL level and is the Avalanche’s all-time winningest head coach.
Needless to say, if Sakic is back behind the GM’s desk, Jared Bednar is still his guy.
The Philadelphia Phillies hope to improve on a strong start under manager Don Mattingly when they host the San Diego Padres tonight.
The Phillies are 21-10 so far with Donnie Baseball at the helm, and my Padres vs. Phillies predictions and MLB picks break down why they’re set to punish Randy Vasquez in a loud way on Tuesday, June 2.
First pitch is at 6:40 p.m. ET on TBS.
Who will win Padres vs Phillies today: Phillies -1.5 (+156)
I keep waiting for the shoe to drop on Randy Vasquez, whose 3.28 ERA is a far cry from his 6.21 xERA. I think tonight’s where we see it happen.
May saw him regress towards the mean, unsurprising given his 13.2% barrel rate and 45.6% hard-hit rate.
Among qualified pitchers, Aaron Nola ranked in the 70th percentile in GB%, soft contact rate, and GB/FB rate in May. He will utilize his curve to key on San Diego’s 47.2% GB% the past two weeks.
I see value on the run line down to +140.
COVERS INTEL:Of 124 SP with 20+ IP in May, Vazquez ranked in the Bottom 15% in soft contact rate (10.9%), GB% (31.9%), and FB% (49.5%).
Padres vs Phillies Over/Under pick: Over 8.5 (+113)
While I expect Nola to perform better than Vasquez, there’s still a path to a high-scoring game.
The Padres rank 10th in road wRC+ the past two weeks (116 wRC+), while ranking eighth with a .179 ISO. Meanwhile, hitters are slugging Nola’s fastball at a ridiculous .904 clip.
Vasquez is going to struggle with the trio of Kyle Schwarber, Brandon Marsh, and Bryce Harper. Against RHP in May, Harper posted a 46.7% HR/FB rate and 190 wRC+, while Schwarber posted a 61.5% pull% and 41% hard-hit rate.
I’m taking the Over down to +100.
Jason Ence's 2026 Transparency Record
ML/RL bets: 9-13, -4.94 units
Over/Under bets: 14-8, +5.28 units
Padres vs Phillies odds today
Moneyline: Padres +106 | Phillies -117
Run line: Padres +1.5 (-190) | Phillies -1.5 (+165)
Over/Under: Over 8 (-112) | Under 8 (-108)
Padres vs Phillies trend
The Phillies have hit the Moneyline in 20 of their last 30 games (+7.00 Units / 17% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Padres vs. Phillies.
How to watch Padres vs Phillies and game info
Location
Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
Date
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
First pitch
6:40 p.m. ET
TV
TBS
Padres starting pitcher
Randy Vasquez (5-3, 3.28 ERA)
Phillies starting pitcher
Aaron Nola (3-4, 5.72 ERA)
Padres vs Phillies latest injuries
Padres vs Phillies weather
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
The Nashville Predators have hired Chris MacFarland to be their president of hockey operations and general manager, luring him away from their Central Division rival Colorado Avalanche.
MacFarland, who has spent the past 11 seasons with the Avalanche, will take over the duties performed by general manager Barry Trotz. Trotz announced his retirement on Feb. 2, but will stay on with the Predators in an advisory role.
In a news release, Predators majority owner Bill Haslam said that MacFarland was one of their main targets throughout the search. The Avalanche were eliminated by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Western Conference finals on May 26.
"We conducted an exhaustive search and were able to meet with several very qualified and impressive candidates," Haslam said. "But all along, we were hopeful to interview Chris (MacFarland). He turned out to be a perfect fit for us, just what we were looking for to lead our organization moving forward."
MacFarland, 56, has been with Colorado since 2015, when he was named assistant general manager. In 2022, he took over the general manager position from Joe Sakic, who was elevated to president of hockey operations.
Sakic will move back the general manager role at least through the start of free agency.
While MacFarland was with Colorado, the Avalanche built a loaded roster that includes Hart Trophy winner Nathan MacKinnon and two-time Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar. MacFarland is directly credited with signing MacKinnon to an eight-year deal in 2022, but he also worked alongside Sakic during the Avalanche's rebuild era — an era that developed MacKinnon into a superstar and the drafting of Makar in 2017.
MacFarland also oversaw several key trades, including sending Matt Duchene to Ottawa in 2018 in exchange for three draft picks and defenseman Samuel Girard in a three-team deal.
Colorado's success the past decade is undeniable. After finishing in last place in the league in 2017, the Avalanche have made the playoffs nine consecutive seasons (2018-2026) and won the Stanley Cup in 2022. This season, they won the Presidents' Trophy with the best record in the league. Accurately assigning credit for that success is difficult, but MacFarland had a role during all of it.
Prior to his time in Colorado, MacFarland was director of hockey operations and assistant general manager with the Columbus Blue Jackets for 14 seasons (2000 to 2015).
According to the Avalanche website, MacFarland has "worked in nearly every facet of the organization including scouting at the professional and amateur level, player contract negotiations, salary cap management and arbitration, collective bargaining agreement administration, budgeting and team scheduling issues."
A New York native, MacFarland played hockey at Pace University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in business in 1992 and a law degree in 1998. He began his career as an intern in the NHL’s New York office in 1993-94 and also worked in the NHL's productions office.
Alex Daugherty is the Predators beat writer for The Tennessean. Contact Alex at jdaugherty@gannett.com. Follow Alex on X, the platform formerly called Twitter, @alexdaugherty1. Also check out our Predators exclusive Instagram page @tennessean_preds.
Some celebs were too superstitious to talk to The Post about the Knicks — but these famous superfans let nothing stop them from showing love for New York City’s blue and orange.
Tracy Morgan
Tracy Morgan greets Jose Alvarado on the court at Madison Square Garden. NBAE via Getty Images
“30 Rock” alum Tracy Morgan says his favorite moment as a Knicks fan was the playoffs’ now-legendary Game 1 against the Cavs — but that could change “because we might win a championship and that’s going to be the greatest moment.” Even sitting on Celebrity Row, the Bed-Stuy native “felt like everybody in that arena, overjoyed. It was fire.” And even in low moments — like “last year when we lost to Indiana. I felt really bad for my team. I felt really bad for us fans” — Morgan has remained optimistic. “I bounced back. I just said, ‘There’s always next year.’ Now look where we are!” And his hope is totally unbridled right now: “I believe we’re going to take the championship because I don’t believe no team on the West Coast can handle us.”
Michael Imperioli
Michael Imperioli on the Knicks’ Celebrity Row. for the NY POST
“The Sopranos” star first fell in love with the Knicks while watching games in the nosebleeds with his father. Now he’s much closer to action — and calls Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals “the most electric game, of any sport, that I have ever attended.” In 2000, Imperioli even flew on the team plane with actor Chazz Palminteri to Detroit “to entice Grant Hill to play for NY.” While the attempt failed, it sparked a long relationship with the team and MSG. “The greatest celebrity perk in all of showbiz is being a part of that [MSG] family,” he said, adding that he had a “full circle” fan moment when he got to sit courtside with his dad.
Emmy Rossum
Knicks superfan Emmy Rossum owns a cap autographed by her all-time favorite player, John Starks. FilmMagic
“I grew up in the city. I honestly don’t remember ever not being a Knicks fan,” said the actress, whose favorite player of all time is John Starks. “I remember watching him growing up, his passion and intensity. I really identified with him as a kid in the ’90s. I recently found a journal entry from my childhood talking about his fire. I have an autographed ball cap from him I cherish. No one puts that cap in the wash!” Currently, her #1 is Jalen Brunson. “He’s the pulse of the team. Every time I’m there and see him in person, he’s so cool headed, he’s never in a rush, he’s got an elegance and he always delivers the goods,” Rossum said. Just don’t ask her how these next games are gonna go: “I’m too superstitious to make any predictions. LGK!”
Matthew Modine
Matthew Modine hugs it out with Josh Hart at MSG. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“When I moved to New York City in the late 1970s I became a New York sports fan. Knicks. Rangers. Giants. Yankees. I grew up in Utah, where there was no NBA, NHL, MLB or NFL teams. So it was a dream come true going to the Garden and seeing the Knicks,” the “Full Metal Jacket” and “Stranger Things” actor told The Post. “My favorite moment, no question, is LJ’s [Larry Johnson’s] 4-point play in Game 3 of the ’99 Eastern Conference finals. But it’s impossible to pick a favorite player. Currently, I adore Josh Hart. He’s shows up and plays with all his heart every game. When that dude smiles — he lights up the entire Garden. And Jalen Brunson understands leadership and leads by example. He’s a stud.”
Michael Rapaport
Michael Rapaport and Spike Lee at the Garden. WireImage
“Going to the Garden as a kid, watching the Knicks since 1979, was beyond special. We always sat in the blue or green sections, which weren’t close, but it was magical,” said the actor, who grew up on the Upper East Side. “I was born and raised a Knicks Fan. It’s in my blood. My favorite Knick ever is probably Charles Oakley — he represented everything that New York is at its core: hard working, tough and plays for the city. As for my favorite moment, it hasn’t happened yet. I’m waiting for a championship.” When Rapaport isn’t at the Garden, he has his own tradition at home: “I watch games quietly, which may surprise people. It’s very emotional.”
Benny Safdie
Director Benny Safdie has been a Knicks fan since he was a kid growing up in the city. Ben Safdie/ Instagram
“I am not exactly sure when I became a Knicks fan. It is something that sort of creeps up on you as a New Yorker. Especially growing up around the ’90s-era Knicks,” said “The Smashing Machine” director. “It becomes a part of you. And that’s what makes the heartbreak so intense [when they lose]. I feel like I can never be comfortable. Everyone has it out against the Knicks, and we have to fight that on top of everything else. I try to always believe, to always feel like it’s our year. But I never want to say that out loud. So, never mind.”
Josh Safdie
Josh Safdie (in red) cheered on the Knicks with Pete Davidson and Chris Rock. Getty Images
“A very nice person I know is a casual fan. I don’t fault her for it. Any fan of the Knicks is a friend of mine. In 2012, she called me about a pair of courtside tickets she had access to, asking if I wanted them for a Utah Jazz game,” the “Marty Supreme” director recalled. “She had no idea what happened the previous game vs the Nets: Jeremy Lin was inserted into the starting lineup and was about to cement what became Linsanity. I couldn’t wait for that game [against the Jazz] to begin. I lucked out. It was one of the greatest experiences ever as a Knicks fan. Sitting wood, I was a sixth man: I spared nothing and didn’t care what the referees thought, who I called out to using their first names. The Knicks felt it. Lin saw it, I know. Jared Jeffries rushed to me at the end of regulation and give me a huge hug. I was not normal. After the game, we went car yelling — where you yell at the cars as they leave the VIP ramp on 33rd.”
Susie Essman
Longtime Knicks fan Susie Essman sat on Celebrity Row with “Curb Your Enthusiasm” co-star Larry David. NBAE via Getty Images
“I became a fan In 1971 when I was in high school,” said the “Curb Your Enthusiasm” actress, who grew up in Mount Vernon. “My boyfriend was a fan. He turned me on to basketball and the Knicks, so I got to experience some glory years” — including the ’73 championship. “There were some tough years between now and then, but here we are and it’s glorious once more. My favorite player of all time is Walt Frazier. He was always the coolest person in the room. He still is,” Essman said. “I don’t have a favorite current player because I love how they play together as a team, from the starters to the bench, and the group dynamic is what makes them so special. I think they will win in six and the Garden will rock as only Madison Square Garden can with the greatest fans in the world.”
Chris Distefano
Comedians Sam Morril and Chris DiStefano at the Garden. NBAE via Getty Images
The comedian, a Queens native, remembers the first Knicks game that “sealed his fandom.” In 1993, his father took 9-year-old Distefano to see NY beat the Orlando Magic. He recalled his dad telling him, “‘And the Knicks covered the spread, Chrissy!! They covered the spread.’ I had no idea what that meant until my mother explained it to me during the divorce.” Despite some lean years, the John Starks superfan remained loyal. “I never left. I just cried through the pain as I do when I put on my Spanx.” Now he’s counting on Jalen Brunson and putting his “faith in Jesus Christ and Mr. James Dolan.” His prediction: “Knicks win in six. And I get arrested for streaking down 7th Avenue but happily take my orange-and-blue butt cheeks to Rikers.”
Steve Schrippa
Steve Schirippa told The Post: “Of all the things I get to do being a half-assed celebrity, my favorite thing in the world is going to Knicks games.” GC Images
“I’ve been a fan since I was 8,” said the Bensonhurt-born “The Sopranos” and “Blue Bloods” star. “I even played at the Garden [while at Brooklyn College]. That was 100 pounds ago. When I was in college and had a student card, I think the tickets were $6.” Nowadays, he’s not up in the cheap seats. “I got to sit next to Clyde [Frazier] the other night … Of all the things I get to do being a half-assed celebrity, my favorite thing in the world is going to Knicks games,” the “WillieBoy Eats the World” author said. “Brunson has turned the franchise around. His jersey will be in the rafters someday.”
Sam Morril
Sam Morill went all out with the Knicks gear. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The comedian “fell in love with the ’90s Knicks” but that doesn’t mean they didn’t break his heart. In 1995, after Patrick Ewing’s missed finger roll against Indiana sent the Knicks packing, Morril said, it “hurt because I loved him so much. I wanted him to win. I was 11 and had to be carried out crying.” He calls the current squad “lovable.” He’s convinced the team is going all the way — “it’s time” — but to keep the winning juju going, he’s taking no chances: “I’m sick in the head. I have a Knicks candle I’ll light.”
Martha Stewart
Martha Stewart sat courtside at the Knicks game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 21. Getty Images
“I am so excited for the Knicks having been a fan since the 1970s when I used to go to game after game after game with my friends,” the Martha Stewart Living founder said. “I got to know Bill Bradley, Walt Frazier, and Patrick Ewing, and when I see them now at a Knicks game it’s so exciting. I’m so proud of the team.”
Pace bowler leads rout of hosts for 190 in 41-run win
Josh Inglis and Cameron Green helped set 232 target
Australia turned the tables on Pakistan, battling their way to victory on a difficult track at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium to level the ODI series one-apiece with one to play. On a surface catered for spinners seamer Nathan Ellis was the star, returning 4-33 in his nine overs with some key wickets.
In the absence of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitch Starc Ellis stepped up to lead the attack superbly. With stand-in captain Josh Inglis and Cam Green both making half-centuries the makeshift Australian XI set Pakistan a challenging 232 to win.
Florida Panthers 2026 NHL Draft Targets: Alberts SmitsThe Florida Panthers will make the ninth selection in the 2026 NHL draft, and for the next month before the June 26 draft, we are going to look at which players the Panthers could target. Today’s player preview is about defenseman Alberts Smits. 
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