ORLANDO, FL - FEBRUARY 9: Ryan Rollins #13 of the Milwaukee Bucks and Kevin Porter Jr. #7 of the Milwaukee Bucks talk during the game against the Orlando Magic on February 9, 2026 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
A sneaky part of the Bucks’ now-dead hot streak that Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins seemingly clicked better together than earlier in the season. During Giannis’ last injury layoff in December, Doc Rivers talked about how he preferred to split the two up: “I like [Rollins] and Scoot together when Giannis plays. But when Giannis doesn’t play, I don’t like him and Scoot together. We need that separation.” During Milwaukee’s eight-wins-in-10-game stretch, they were +4.8 in net with that duo on the floor. Prior to then, they were +3.3. Here’s what Doc said about them on Sunday:
“In the games we play well, that means they play well together, that the ball was moving, they were getting downhill, making plays. In the games we struggle, that means the ball was usually stuck in those two guys’ hands. You don’t have that problem as much with Giannis, obviously.“
Doc also thought that Rollins’ improvement as a facilitator and a playmaker over the last month was a big reason for the combo’s newfound success. Well, sure enough, Rollins was the one benched last night as the Bucks moved away from the three-guard starting lineup. To be fair, Rollins has had a rough go of it over the last few games, particularly with regard to turnovers, averaging 4.0 per game since February 1st.
In this week’s Tuesday Tracker, we want your opinion on the starting backcourt and small forward spot now that Giannis is back. Let’s also see how much your projected playoff seeding for Milwaukee has changed over the past couple weeks.
As always, this poll will be open until midnight Central on Friday, and we’ll post the results later that day. Thanks for voting!
SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Tony Vitello, looking across the field Tuesday at the greatest U.S. baseball team ever assembled, made sure to pay his respect to the Team USA player that has quietly been a monumental help to him making the transition from being a collegiate coach to manager of the San Francisco Giants.
Yes, Philadelphia Phillies All-Star first baseman Bryce Harper.
“Bryce, he’s a friend, and he's gone out of his way to help me out,’’ Vitello said. “In particular with the transition at the job and all that, but just other circumstances, too. But a lot of guys just went out of their way.
“Instead of it being like, wait a minute, you're not invited to the club. You didn't, you didn't play or do anything like that, it was like, almost a sense of urgency. 'Hey, when you get there, make sure you do this, this and this.’
“And one thing Bryce was adamant about is just a way to handle players and talk to players, but also to lean on players, because at this level, there's guys that you know. …. And there's a give and take there that doesn't really exist as much at the college level.’’
Harper, who lives in Nashville, has gotten together several times in person with Vitello, who lived in Knoxville when he coached Tennessee. Vitello also saw him on recruiting trips when Harper lived in Las Vegas, and knows his family.
“His dad and I have had good baseball conversations,’’ Vitello said. “I don't think Bryce would be who he is without his whole family, but especially the way his dad worked with him. Just some good baseball conversations with him.’’
Vitello, who was an analyst during the MLB draft last July with Team USA manager Mark DeRosa, also says that the exposure played a vital role in him landing the Giants job, becoming the first person to be hired as an MLB manager directly from the college ranks.
“DeRosa helped me a bunch on the draft,’’ Vitello said. “I don't think I'd be sitting here right now without the MLB Network people being the way they were to me.’’
Vitello also was a little star-struck seeing DH Kyle Schwarber and bullpen coach David Ross, who were instrumental in the Chicago Cubs’ 2016 World Series championship. Vitello, raised in St. Louis, took his father, Greg, to Game 7 of the World Series to witness the Cubs' first title since 1908.
“Getting to take him to see Game 7, as a lifelong Cubs fan,’’ Vitello said of his father, “can't put it into words. And Schwarber, you know, kind of started that whole thing. I believe it was right after the rain delay. … It was a wild game.
“It'll be neat to be on field level with all these guys.’’
The Buffalo Sabres are swinging for the fences and pursuing the NHL's top trade candidate.
According to TSN's Darren Dreger, trade talks between the Sabres and St. Louis Blues "are heating up" regarding star center Robert Thomas.
TSN's Chris Johnston also added that the Sabres are offering the "equivalent of multiple 1st-rounders" to try to land Thomas from St. Louis.
If the Sabres end up landing Thomas, they would be bringing in another legitimate star for their top six. This would be massive for a Sabres club that is looking to officially snap its 14-year playoff drought and cement itself as true contenders in the process.
However, it is also important to note that Thomas has a complete no-trade clause, so he would need to accept a move to Buffalo for the Sabres to have any chance of landing him.
Thomas would be more than a rental for the Sabres if acquired, as he has a $8.125 million cap hit until the end of the 2030-31 season.
Thomas has appeared in 43 games this season with the Blues, where he has recorded 12 goals, 23 assists, and 35 points. This is after he had 21 goals and 81 points in 70 games last season for St. Louis.
The Montreal Canadiens are spending the trade deadline week away from the noise and rumours of Montreal, as they are in California, where they’ll play three games before heading back home on Sunday. On Tuesday, they’ll take on the San Jose Sharks and phenom Macklin Celebrini.
The hosts are on the outside looking in at the playoffs picture, four points away from the wildcard spots in the Western Conference held by the Edmonton Oilers and the Utah Mammoth, but they have won their last two games. Still, they’re only 5-4-1 in their last 10 games, and every point is as important as it gets for them. Meanwhile, the Canadiens are 6-2-2 and coming off a dominant 6-2 win over the Washington Capitals.
Judging by the lines at practice on Monday, it looks like Martin St-Louis will stick with the same lineup with Joe Veleno (who’s got a cold right now), Arber Xhekaj, and Patrik Laine on the press gallery. Jakub Dobes will be back in net.
It will be be his first duel with the Sharks. As for Samuel Montembeault, he has a 3-1-0 record against the Sharks with a 2.76 goals-against average and a .908 save percentage.
At the other end of the ice, the San Jose Sharks have yet to confirm who will start, but Alex Nedeljkovich was in the net during the Sharks’ last game on Saturday, a 2-1 overtime win against the Winnipeg Jets. The netminder has played 26 games this season, while rookie Yaroslav Askarov has featured in 37 matches. Askarov has faced the Habs only once and lost; he has a 4.15 GAA and a .886 SV%. Meanwhile, Nedeljkovich has a 3-1-1 record against Montreal with a 1.74 GAA and a .947 SV.
Up front, former Canadiens Tyler Toffoli is San Jose’s most productive player against the Habs with 20 points in 22 games, followed by Dimitry Orlov with 17 points in 33 games and Alexandre Wenneberg with 16 points in 22 games. However, Montreal would do well to keep an eye on youngsters Celebrini, Will Smith and William Eklund, who are all on a two-game point streak and have all been successful against St-Louis’ men in the past. As for rookie Michael Misa, he has never faced the Sainte-Flanelle, but he’s on a three-game point streak and has 12 points in 21 games this season.
The Canadiens only have one player who has reached double-digits against the Sharks; Philip Danault, who has 11 points in 26 games. Defenseman Noah Dobeson has eight points in as many games, while Josh Anderson also has eight points, but in 14 games. However, it’s worth noting that Nick Suzuki has seven points in nine games against San Jose while Cole Caufield has six points in seven games. The sniper also has three goals in his last two games.
Interesting note, St-Louis now has a 148-148-46 record in 342 games behind the bench. With a win tonight, the coach would have more wins than regulation losses for the first time in his career. A clear sign that the Canadiens are on the right path and have turned a corner in their rebuild.
Tuesday night’s tilt will be the 50th meeting between the two sides, and the Canadiens have a 20-23-4-2 record. Montreal won the last duel with the Sharks 4-3 in overtime at the Bell Centre, but each team has won five of the last 10 games. Four of the Tricolore’s five wins came in San Jose, where the Habs have won the last four matches.
The game is set for 10:00 PM, and you can catch it on NBCSCA, TSN2, and RDS. Francois St-Laurent and Tom Chmielewski will be officiating, while Trent Knorr and Devin Berg will be the linemen. After the game, the Canadiens will head to Los Angeles right away, as they’ll face the Anaheim Ducks on Friday, trade deadline day, and the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday.
Feb 23, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) dribbles in the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
The NBA has named Spurs guard Dylan Harper the Western Conference Rookie of Month for the month of February. The Spurs went undefeated with an 11-0 record for the month, with Harper appearing in 10 of those games (he missed their win against the Thunder) while averaging 12.5 points , 4.9 assists, and 3.9 rebounds in 25.1 MPG while shooting 55.4% from the field.
He is joined by the Charlotte Hornets’ Kon Knueppel in the East, who has won the honor each month so far. This is the first time Harper has won the award. It has usually been Cooper Flagg in the West, who still received votes, but he only appeared in four games for the Mavericks in February due to an ongoing foot injury. Others who received votes in the West include the Jazz’s Ace Bailey, Grizzlies’ Javon Small and the Kings’ Maxime Raynaud.
As the second overall pick from the 2025 NBA Draft, Harper has fit right in as the Spurs’ backup point guard despite concerns about his fit with De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. He’s a feisty defender and quick and smooth operator with the ball, often finding driving lanes and converting some amazing finishes around the rim.
Your Western Conference @Kia Rookie of the Month for February…
Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski throws in the outfield during spring training workouts Sunday, February 15, 2026, at American Family Fields of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona. | Dave Kallmann / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Milwaukee Brewers are set to take on Team Great Britain at American Family Fields of Phoenix on Tuesday afternoon, in what will be a tune-up for Team GBR as the World Baseball Classic is set to officially begin on Wednesday (Team GBR’s first pool game is on Friday).
The game is one of 15 WBC exhibitions taking place on Tuesday, with 15 more set for Wednesday. You can view the full schedule of exhibitions and the WBC schedule here.
Jacob Misiorowski is slated to make his spring debut in this one, as he’ll get the start. In the lineup, Blake Perkins leads off, followed by Garrett Mitchell and Luis Rengifo. Jake Bauers bats cleanup and starts at first base, followed by Akil Baddoo and David Hamilton. Reese McGuire (at catcher), Jeferson Quero (at DH), and top prospect Jesús Made round out the lineup.
Team GBR is a mixture of minor leaguers, major leaguers, and non-MLB players. The names you’ll likely recognize from the team include Nate Eaton (batting leadoff), Jazz Chisholm (batting second), Harry Ford (batting third), and Trayce Thompson (batting seventh).
First pitch is slated for 2:10 p.m. CT with a radio broadcast available via the Brewers website.
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 2: Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets dunks the ball during the game against the Washington Wizards on March 2, 2026 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
With Houston playing good ball out of the All-Star break this a reminder that yes, you are still allowed to be mad at the Jared McCain trade.
The Rockets seem to have gotten their act together since this blog started tracking their progress and the 2026 first-round pick they owe to the Sixers. They went 3-1 over their last week of action, dropping only a matinee game in Miami to the Heat.
That’s kept their pick at 25th overall, just where it was a week ago. Houston’s schedule remains fairly easy, at least in the short term. They’ll host a banged up Golden State Warriors team this week as well as the Portland Trail Blazers before heading to San Antonio to take on the Spurs.
Anyone rooting for losses can at least take solace in the fact that those two home games are a back-to-back, and that Spurs matchup projects to be quite a battle.
Last week the tracker briefly touched on some of the draft prospects that have been mocked in that range, and this week’s will serve as somewhat as a channel guide to watch some of these guys with the college regular season winding down.
Amari Allen from Alabama remains Tankathon’s mock pick for the Sixers here. The Crimson Tide’s last two regular season games are March 3 against Georgia at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPNNEWS and Auburn at 8:30 on March 7 on ESPN.
Joshua Jefferson and Iowa State have only one remaining regular season game, that will also be March 7 at 2 p.m. ET against Arizona State.
It doesn’t feel likely that Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg would fall to them in this range, but their center Aday Mara has been mocked closer to where the Sixers might be picking. The Wolverines last two games are on March 5 at 8 p.m. ET against Iowa and on March 7 at 4:30 p.m. ET. You can catch that one on CBS.
The Detroit Red Wings have just under $13 million in cap space heading into Friday's trade deadline with many options available on the table.
Most insider reports have indicated the same when it comes to the team's desires on the open market, being a second line center and a top four defenseman being on the top of their list although, based on the team's recent play a depth forward may also be a good idea to look into.
Detroit is a destination on the rise with the Red Wings appearing to be on the upswing towards becoming a perineal contender once again and players would have the honor of representing one of the most prestigious teams in the NHL.
With that in mind, some players on the available market have come up in trade rumors linked to Detroit and could be the next big move by Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman as he looks to finally get his team over the hump and into the playoffs. Here are all of the names the Red Wings have been linked to over the last few weeks and who could be on the move to the Motor City.
Elias Pettersson, C
One of the most talked-about names connected to Detroit is 27-year-old Elias Pettersson, the former 102-point producer whose performance has dipped over the past few seasons.
Since signing his massive eight-year contract carrying an average annual value of roughly $11.6 million, the Swedish center has not matched the elite production that earned him the deal. Instead of hovering near the 100-point plateau, he is projected to finish around the 50-point mark this season while still being compensated like a franchise cornerstone.
It appears the Vancouver Canucks are growing impatient waiting for Pettersson to rediscover his top form and have quietly explored moving him, though only for a substantial return.
The Red Wings are positioned better than most organizations to construct such a package thanks to their draft capital and deep pool of high-end prospects.
A report from the Ottawa Citizen’s Bruce Garrioch added fuel to the speculation last Saturday, noting, "keep an eye on Canucks forward Elias Pettersson; We’re told the Red Wings have been aggressive in their pursuit."
Detroit generated buzz recently after presenting a trade proposal to Vancouver for veteran defenseman Tyler Myers, with some reports suggesting the offer involved a second-round pick.
The 36-year-old Texas native fits the profile Detroit is seeking as a large, physical, hard-nosed presence capable of logging shutdown minutes. Myers has consistently delivered between 20 and 30 points per season.
Although Vancouver’s difficult campaign has left him sitting at minus-25 this year, he recorded a combined plus-18 rating across the previous two seasons.
At six-foot-eight, Myers would also bring leadership and experience that could benefit Detroit’s younger core. His mentorship could be especially valuable for towering forwards like Elmer Soderblom and Michael Rasmussen, while his biggest impact may come in guiding Simon Edvinsson.
The 23-year-old Edvinsson shares a similar frame and developmental trajectory, and learning how Myers has maintained longevity and effectiveness in the NHL could be invaluable.
Whether a deal materializes remains uncertain. TSN’s Chris Johnston recently reported that "at this point in time [Detroit's] not necessarily a place that Myers is looking to go", while Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos countered that Myers did not outright reject the move but is "looking over options, however, by making Detroit wait, the Red Wings could change direction and pursue Rasmus Ristolainen or another defenceman instead."
Rasmus Ristolainen, D
Among the most sought-after names ahead of the deadline is Rasmus Ristolainen, the former eighth overall pick in the 2013 NHL Draft. Now 31, the once 40-point defenseman has seen his offensive totals decline but remains an imposing physical presence.
Standing six-foot-four, Ristolainen has evolved significantly over his career. Early seasons were marked by strong offensive numbers but also heavy minus ratings.
While those struggles came during difficult years with the Buffalo Sabres, he has adjusted his game. Last season, he finished plus-three, marking the first positive rating of his 13-year NHL career.
Injuries have limited the Flyers defenseman this season to 23 games, where he has six points and a minus-three rating. For Detroit, the appeal lies in adding size and a physical shutdown element to the blue line. The Fourth Period’s Dave Pagnotta reported that the Red Wings are among several teams pursuing Ristolainen.
Justin Faulk, D
Another experienced blueliner on Detroit’s radar is St. Louis’ Justin Faulk. His offensive instincts from the back end have drawn interest, particularly for a Red Wings team that has struggled at times to generate scoring beyond its top six forwards.
At 33, Faulk is slightly younger than Myers and carries a $6.5 million cap hit through the end of next season, giving Detroit some contractual flexibility. A dependable 30 to 40 point contributor with the ability to push toward 50 points as he did in 2022-23, Faulk would immediately bolster the offensive dimension of the defense corps.
He could also aid in the development of Detroit’s younger defensemen, including Edvinsson, Axel Sandin-Pellikka, and Albert Johansson, helping refine their offensive upside. TSN’s Darren Dreger described Faulk as one of the premier right-shot options available and someone Detroit may seriously consider.
MacKenzie Weegar, D
The Calgary Flames appear poised for significant roster movement ahead of the trade deadline, with Nazem Kadri, Blake Coleman, and MacKenzie Weegar headlining potential departures. Of that group, Weegar has generated the most discussion in connection with Detroit.
Entering the season after compiling 99 points across the previous two years, Weegar was viewed as Calgary’s most valuable trade chip.
Though he has registered 21 points in 59 games during what has been a down year for the Flames, a change of scenery could reignite his production. Detroit has the assets to compete for a player of his caliber, and a move to the Motor City could restore him to 50-plus point form on the back end.
Jake DeBrusk, LW
Injecting additional scoring into Detroit’s middle six would be ideal, and Jake DeBrusk presents a consistent option. The 29-year-old winger is on pace to surpass 40 points for the fifth consecutive season and has reached that mark in seven of his NHL campaigns.
Comparable in consistency to current Red Wing James van Riemsdyk, DeBrusk offers reliable depth scoring with the ability to elevate beyond that baseline.
He could provide offensive stability during stretches when production dries up. The Fourth Period recently reported that the Bruins, Kraken, and Red Wings are among the teams expressing interest in DeBrusk.
The priciest acquisition on the list is 26-year-old Robert Thomas, a player squarely in his prime who can serve as either a first- or second-line center. Having recorded 80-plus points in each of the past two seasons, Thomas would command a significant return.
Detroit, however, possesses the prospect depth and draft capital to make a competitive offer if management believes the move accelerates their playoff push. Adding a point-per-game center would be transformative, but the true question remains whether the acquisition cost would justify the reward.
Vincent Trocheck, C
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Vincent Trocheck may be the most likely elite center to change teams. The 32-year-old showcased his elite two-way ability while helping Team USA capture gold, anchoring a penalty kill unit that did not surrender a single goal throughout the tournament.
Detroit is one of several clubs monitoring the situation. RG’s James Murphy reported that "the Minnesota Wild still appears to be a frontrunner" but added that Detroit "will likely be in the mix as well."
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ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 5: Jurickson Profar #7 of the Atlanta Braves walks on the field in the sixth inning during the game against the Seattle Mariners at Truist Park on September 5, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Jurickson Profar is currently set to miss the entire 2026 season after reportedly failing a test for performance-enhancing drugs for the second time in as many seasons. This bombshell news has rocked the Atlanta Braves organization, it’s rocked Braves Country and it has also rocked Profar’s pockets as well. Assuming the suspension becomes official (more on that below), that’s now $21 million forfeited of the $42 million that Profar agreed to collect over the course of three seasons playing for the Braves. That’s a whole lot of money to be throwing away in such foolish fashion but (reportedly) here we are and there’s not much that the Braves can do at this point other than figure out a way to utilize the now $18 million (Profar’s $15 million plus luxury tax considerations as well) that just got freed up at the very last minute.
So now there are a few questions as to what the immediate future holds for the Braves and Profar. Here’s what comes to the top of my mind:
Will Jurickson Profar’s suspension get shortened or thrown out?
Shortly after the suspension was reported by Jeff Passan, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the MLBPA was going to challenge the suspension and also file a grievance on Profar’s behalf.
The Players Association plans to challenge MLB’s intention to suspend Jurickson Profar for 162 games, source tells @TheAthletic
Is this going to go anywhere? I mean, sure it could but the odds are heavily tilted in the league’s favor that this suspension will be upheld. The obvious example here is when Alex Rodriguez appealed his initial 211-game suspension. That still ended up with A-Rod doing 162 games on the sidelines so it wasn’t like he took a decisive victory in order to return to the field.
Also, this isn’t the first time that this has been challenged. In the vast majority of PED suspension appeals, there’s one common thread amongst these suspensions: MLB has usually done a thorough job with their investigation and was able to prove intent to use PEDs instead of it being an accident. Considering this is Profar’s second go-around with PED usage, I’d imagine that it wouldn’t be too difficult for the league to find intent here.
I’d say that this is simply the Union standing behind one of their own in procedural fashion. Again, there’s a chance that the suspension could get cut down but I wouldn’t count on it and I also wouldn’t count on it being a substantial repeal as well. This is either going to be all-or-nothing and the odds of it being “all” are incredibly slim.
Will the Braves use that money immediately?
As I mentioned earlier, the Braves now have a little bit of extra money to play with since that money likely won’t be going into Profar’s bank account this year. The bad news is that it’s March 3, so good luck finding any sort of real impact player at this point. Sure, the Braves could go after an outfielder or a DH but when the most appealing options are guys like Max Kepler, Jesse Winker, Andrew McCutchen or even Jason Heyward, the Braves would clearly be doing the baseball equivalent of shopping in the clearance aisle.
Of course, they could very well just stick with what they’ve got when it comes to their hitters/fielders and go with a pitcher, instead. Lucas Giolito would be the obvious name but also we’d be assuming that the Braves actually want him and that they’re still dead serious about wanting to stick with their internal options going forward. If that’s the case then it seems more likely that the Braves could go after an outfielder or a DH option and continue to place faith in their internal pitching options.
It’s frustrating in my opinion but it is what it is — Alex Anthopoulos is on record saying that he feels like the offense improving would be a bigger key to the success than the rotation and it’s understandable considering that he’s likely banking on the entire rotation not going on the 60-Day IL for a second season in a row. Still, it’s also understandable that we’re all feeling very jumpy after the injury woes that the rotation has already had to deal with. I do not envy the position that the GM is in at the moment but hey, that’s why he’s the GM and I’m some random blogger. It’s his job to figure it out.
Then there’s also the possibility that the Braves could sit on this money for the time being and utilize it later on during the season at the trade deadline. That’s a lot of cash to have freed up to take on any potential contracts at the deadline and hopefully there would be far more appealing names once that time rolls around. There’s no telling who would be available and that would certainly be a risky strategy to play the waiting game that deep into the season since there’s also no guarantee that the Braves would be in a reasonable position to buy.
Sure, we all figure that the team will still be better (even with all of the current missing names in the field and on the mound) but if we have another season of struggling to simply stay in the Postseason race then not spending the money right now could be a decision that comes back to haunt the Braves. Again, I do not envy the position that AA is in at the moment.
Will Jurickson Profar play another game for the Braves?
I’d imagine that if a lot of Braves fans had their way, the 2025 regular season finale would be the last time that we ever see Jurickson Profar put on the uniform and start for the Braves. There’s no getting around it: He’s let the team down for two straight seasons now due to making incredibly bad decisions with his judgment. There is no excuse at all for getting hit for using PEDs in this current era of baseball and it’s even more confounding when you consider that this has happened after he got paid in free agency. It would still be a bad idea but it’s one that’s understandable if you’re a hungry player looking to secure a big bag. Doing it now and throwing $21 million away is just plain foolish and it’s even worse since his absence leaves the team in a lurch.
I mentioned it in the initial article but it bears repeating: It made all the sense in the world to have Profar as the DH while Mike Yastrzemski hit against right-handed batters. Now, Yaz is going to be playing a whole lot more and the team’s depth (which they worked so hard on improving during the offseason) is already being strained due to losing Profar for the whole season and Ha-Seong Kim and Sean Murphy for a month or two. This was one of the last things that the Braves needed and for it to come from another PED suspension to Profar is just horrendous.
Depending on how the clubhouse and the rest of the organization feels, this could be one of those rare moments where the team just decides to eat the money and pay Profar the rest of his contract to stay home or play for whichever other team will take him. In all honesty, though, I could also see the Braves giving him a third chance for 2027.
As of right now, Profar would be the best currently-employed option to be the DH on the 2027 squad and assuming that they wouldn’t want to go out and find another expensive replacement, that would be an easy way to ensure stability heading into 2027. It would stink for all of us fans to think about and it would also require an astonishing amount of fence-mending on Profar’s part to smooth this over between now and 2027 but it is certainly a possibility.
Either way, the Braves now have a problem on their hands and it’s a crying shame. Jurickson Profar’s initial signing seemed like a perfect fit for a team that had been having a revolving door at left field for a long time. Now, the Braves are stuck wondering what they’re going to do since this relationship has been a very rocky one since the beginning.
Will the team stick with Profar now that he’s only getting $21 million of the $42 million that he signed on for? Will the Braves use that money immediately or wait until later on to utilize it? Will the suspension even be upheld? It’s a murky future and one that could’ve been avoided had Profar simply stayed clean. We’ll see what happens but this certainly isn’t a fun idea to think about.
The Atlanta Braves' Jurickson Profar tosses his bat after hitting a single against the Detroit Tigers on Sept. 20. (Ryan Sun / Associated Press)
Atlanta Braves designated hitter Jurickson Profar is facing a suspension for a possible second failed test for a performance-enhancing drug in less than a year, multiple media outlets are reporting.
He faces a 162-game suspension and will be ineligible for the postseason, according to ESPN, which was first to report the news. Profar, a Curaçao native, had been slated to represent the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic that begins Thursday, but is no longer eligible for that event, ESPN reports.
Profar intends to ask the players’ association to file a grievance to appeal any discipline to baseball’s independent arbitrator, Martin F. Scheinman, a person familiar with the process told the Associated Press on condition of anonymity, because no announcement had been made.
Profar's agent, Dan Lozano, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the AP.
Profar made his MLB debut with the Texas Rangers in 2012 and made the All-Star game for the only time in his career with the San Diego Padres in 2024. He has also played for the Oakland Athletics and Colorado Rockies.
After signing a three-year deal with the Braves last offseason, Profar tested positive for Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in violation of the league’s joint drug-prevention and treatment program. He was suspended for 80 games without pay and was made ineligible for the postseason.
“It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it," Profar said in a statement at the time. "I have been tested my entire career, including eight times last season alone, and have never tested positive. I would never willingly take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB’s decision.”
Profar played 80 games for the Braves last year, hitting .245 with 14 home runs.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 02: (L-R) Byron Buxton #25, Kyle Schwarber #12, Roman Anthony #3 and Aaron Judge #99 of Team USA walk from the field during a workout at Papago Park Sports Complex on March 02, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Is it on TV?
Kind of. This is the first night game of Spring Training and it conflicts with a Bruins game, so it’s been bumped to NESN+. First pitch is at 6:05 PM.
What’s the lineup?
What should we watch for?
Assuming you can watch it, it’ll be nice to get another look at Kristian Campbell in centerfield. Braiden Ward, meanwhile, has been the best base-stealer in all of baseball this spring so far, so that’s pretty neat. But the most intriguing player in the lineup today is probably the pitcher, Jake Bennett, who has a huge fan in fellow Jake Jacob Roy.
Are there any other interesting games featuring Red Sox players that are on TV?
Why yes! Team USA will play its first exhibition game ahead of the World Baseball Classic this afternoon against the Giants. Roman Anthony is playing left and hitting seventh. Catch it on ESPN, first pitch at 3:05 PM.
PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 15: Team Mexico fans drape a Mexican flag over the outfield walll during Game 9 of Pool C between Team Mexico and Team Canada at Chase Field on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/WBCI/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
The World Baseball Classic starts to loom, and in addition to the game here, fourteen other participant countries will also be playing exhibition games here or in Florida. Among the D-backs taking part, Ketel Marte and Geraldo Perdomo are batting 2nd and 9th respectively, as the Dominican Republic take on the Tigers. Druw Jones is also hitting 9th for the Netherlands as they take on the Orioles. And Kristian Robinson is playing DH and hitting fifth for the British team [/sips tea], for their game against the Brewers in Maryvale. Meanwhile, here’s the D-backs’ line-up as they take on our southern neighbors this afternoon at Salt River Fields:
After Zac Gallen, pitchers may include RHP Dylan Ray, RHP Taylor Clarke, RHP Juan Morillo, RHP Grant Holman, RHP Joe Ross and RHP John Curtiss. Zac only threw one inning his first time out, since like Brandon Pfaadt, he is being slow-played. It was a scoreless inning with one hit and a pair of strikeouts, but I’d expect at least two and possibly three frames from him this afternoon. Also of note, scheduled to start for the Mexican side is former Diamondback, Taijuan Walker, while batting eighth will be current Diamondback, Alek Thomas. Should be an interesting game, although it doesn’t “count”, even in the Cactus League!
A couple of ways to follow this one. The game will be televised through dbacks.tv, with Steve Berthiaume, Bob Brenly & – be still my beating heart – Todd Walsh. But if you want to practice your Spanish, it will also be on La Campesina 101.9 FM and 860 AM, with Oscar Soria & Richard Saenz.
GOODYEAR, AZ - FEBRUARY 19: Petey Halpin #0 of the Cleveland Guardians poses for a photo during the Cleveland Guardians photo day at Goodyear Ballpark on Thursday, February 19, 2026 in Goodyear, Arizona. (Photo by Nic Antaya/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
Time to play the World Champs again. Here’s the lineup:
CF Kwan SS Rocchio 3B Ramirez 1B Manzardo C Fry DH Valera RF Jones 2B Brito LF Halpin
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers is guarded by Nate Williams #19 of the Golden State Warriors during the second half at Chase Center on March 02, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It hasn’t been an easy stretch for the Golden State Warriors. With injuries piling up to their biggest names, wins have been hard to come by. But if there’s been one clear positive, it’s been watching the rest of the roster embrace the opportunity in front of them.
With Jimmy Butler out for the season and both Steph Curry and Kristaps Porzingis sidelined in recent games, Golden State has had no choice but to lean on its depth. Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, and even rookie Will Richard have gone from rotation pieces to key contributors during this stretch.
On Monday night, in the Warriors’ 114-101 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, another name stepped into that spotlight. Two-way wing Nate Williams delivered a strong all-around performance, finishing with 18 points on 5-of-8 shooting, along with two rebounds, two assists, and a steal in 22 minutes on the floor.
Williams didn’t just produce offensively — he also embraced one of the toughest defensive assignments in the league, spending key possessions guarding Clippers small forward Kawhi Leonard. After the game, Williams made it clear he wasn’t intimidated by the matchup.
“[Kawhi Leonard] is a great player, but he bleeds just like I bleed,” Williams said. “I don’t fear no challenge.”
That mindset translated. He held his ground against a former two-time Finals MVP, and for a 27-year-old undrafted wing still trying to carve out a consistent role in the NBA, those are the kinds of minutes that matter.
Head coach Steve Kerr praised Williams’ energy and competitiveness afterward, reinforcing that that’s what it will take for the Warriors to survive this difficult stretch of games.
Kerr credited the second-half defense of the Clippers — who slowed the pace after a brisker first half — and highlighted the play of Nate Williams.
“It’s fun watching him. Young player. Live body. Can make a shot. … Nate is a very impressive player.”
It capped what had been a hectic last four days for Williams, who, according to Kerr, also recently became a father.
He played 36 minutes Friday in Santa Cruz and scored 26 points for the Warriors’ G League team against San Diego.
Then he made the commute up the coast and the most of his 15 minutes against the Lakers on Saturday, scoring seven points and dishing out two assists.
Williams turned around just 18 hours later and put in 10 points in 10 minutes on Sunday afternoon, facing the G League Clippers again at Chase Center as part of the SeaDubs’ yearly showcase in San Francisco.
Finally, he played 18 more minutes in Monday’s loss as one of the few bright spots for Golden State.
“He’s still one of the great defenders in the league,” Kerr said of Green. “And he set the tone in that first half, and we were able to sustain the lead for much of the third. But they went on a run late in the third quarter, and cut it to two going into the fourth. They had a lot of momentum.
“But we had to get him out. He can’t play the whole game. And he played 31 minutes, which is a lot for him at this stage. But that was the key stretch.”
Green, who turns 36 on Wednesday, averages 26.6 minutes per game and has topped 31 in only 11 of the 50 games in which he has played this season. No doubt he was stretched.
Uncertain whether Kristaps Porzingis will join road trip. He was in the facility today. Out again with general illness.
Steve Kerr: “It’s a little mysterious. We’re working with him hoping he can get some clarity and breakthrough and get to a point he’s consistently healthy.” pic.twitter.com/7SBFwj904Z
Antetokounmpo racked up 19 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists in the defeat.
“I’m just happy that I’m on the court,” he said after Monday’s game. “It doesn’t matter if I play 18 minutes, 20 minutes, 22, whatever, I’m just happy that I’m out there. Obviously did not play well tonight, but at the end of the day, I’m just happy that I’m out there being able to help my teammates in any way that I can and just do what I love, which is play basketball.”
Well hello there, Nate Williams! After making his Warriors debut on Saturday, Williams played a critical role on Monday, and was one of the team’s best players, despite it being just the 49th game of his career. He was Golden State’s best shooter, and most aggressive offensive option. I certainly did not see that coming, but it was awesome.
Grade: A+
Follow@unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are using a softer stretch of schedule to build momentum in the Western Conference.
Los Angeles has won two in a row and hosts the New Orleans Pelicans for an extended stay in La-La Land on Tuesday.
James’ offensive outputs have been tempered since the All-Star break, with Los Angeles running into some stronger defensive foes before two blowout wins.
New Orleans is way down the NBA’s defensive metrics, so my Pelicans vs. Lakers predictions and NBA picks call for a return to form for “King James”, most notably when it comes to his playmaking.
Pelicans vs Lakers prediction
Pelicans vs Lakers best bet: LeBron James Over 5.5 assists (-150)
This prop bounces between 5.5 and 6.5 assists from LeBron James. And while the lower end of that number carries a hefty -150 ask, projections for the Los Angeles Lakers’ veteran are too good to ignore.
James has dished out six or more dimes just twice in the six post-break outings, with his potential assists slipping from 12.0 pre-break to 8.7 in this current span. That said, the New Orleans Pelicans' defense is dreadful and allows an average of 28 assists.
LeBron’s forecasts range from 6.2 to 7.5 assists, and he handed out eight the last time he faced NOLA.
Pelicans vs Lakers same-game parlay
The Lakers are actually healthy for once and have a chance to build momentum with a third straight victory. The Pelicans are playing their fourth straight road game and third game in four days.
James’ potential assists took a hit against some tougher defenses post-break (Boston, Orlando, Phoenix), but NOLA is among the worst defensive clubs, and LeBron is pegged for more than seven dimes tonight.
Rui Hachimura is at his best when the L.A. stars are on the floor and drawing extra attention from the defense. He’s forecast for as many as 12 points tonight.
Pelicans vs Lakers SGP
Lakers moneyline
James Over 5.5 assists
Hachimura Over 8.5 points
Our "from downtown" SGP: The James gang
LeBron went for eight rebounds and eight assists in his last run-in with the Pelicans, and game projections call for “King James” to top those props while powering L.A. to a win and cover in a low-scoring finish (237 points).
Pelicans vs Lakers SGP
Lakers -8.5
Under 242.5
James Over 5.5 assists
James Over 5.5 rebounds
Pelicans vs Lakers odds
Spread: Pelicans +8.5 | Lakers -8.5
Moneyline: Pelicans +280 | Lakers -360
Over/Under: Over 242.5 | Under 242.5
Pelicans vs Lakers betting trend to know
The L.A. Lakers are 10-1 SU and 8-3 ATS versus the New Orleans Pelicans over the last three seasons. Find more NBA betting trends for Pelicans vs. Lakers.
How to watch Pelicans vs Lakers
Location
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tip-off
10:30 p.m. ET
TV
GCSEN, Spectrum SportsNet
Pelicans vs Lakers latest injuries
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