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Andres Chaparro rewarded the Washington Nationals faith in him during the second half

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 27: Andrés Chaparro #87 of the Washington Nationals rounds the bases after hitting a home run in the fifth inning during the game between the New York Mets and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on Sunday, September 27, 2026 in Washington, District of Columbia. (Photo by Alyssa McDaniel/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

This season, the Nationals had a lot of hitters emerge. However, you could make a strong argument that Andres Chaparro was the best of the bunch after the All-Star Break. After struggling to get things going as a part time player in the first half, Chappy burst on to the scene down the stretch.

In the first half, I wondered why Chaparro was even on the team. The 27 year old seemed like the ultimate Quad-A player who could dominate in AAA but couldn’t replicate that success against big league pitching. With a .586 OPS in the first half, and big league struggles in the past, it just seemed like Chappy was not that guy. 

Things changed in the second half though, and I think you can point to one swing as the turning point. The Nats were playing in Sacramento when Chaparro absolutely unloaded on a Jose Suarez fastball. He sent the pitch 467 feet, hitting the ball over everything.

That swing unlocked a new version of Chaparro. During that first road trip after the break, Chaparro hit 3 homers and gained a ton of confidence. Before that swing, Chaparro was just trying to show he belonged. However, that monster blast proved to him that he could compete and thrive at this level.

There were more big swings to come from the Nats hulking slugger. Chaparro hit .299 with a .998 OPS in the second half. He also crushed 12 homers, including two on the final day of the season. It was a shocking and awesome reversal of fortunes.

One of my favorite things about Chaparro is just how majestic his home runs are. When he gets a hold of one, you usually know it is gone. With his steeper bat path, his homers tend to hang in the air longer than most. The best example of that is his first homer on the last day of the season. I was at that game, and it felt like time stopped as we waited for that home run ball to reach the seats.

It is really tough not to be blown away by what Chaparro did in the second half. That generational run gave him great season totals. For the year, Chappy hit .263 with a .360 OBP, an .885 OPS and 13 homers in just 83 games. He only had 198 AB’s, though it felt like it was more than that. His impact in that smaller sample was very loud. Chaparro’s 141 wRC+ is an elite number. 

Heading into next season, I would like to see Chaparro get a shot at every day playing time, or at least something close to that. Despite his reputation as a lefty masher, Chaparro had very even splits. He had an .888 OPS against lefties and an .880 mark against righties. 

The Nats showed they are willing to turn platoon guys into everyday players if it is earned. We saw that with Curtis Mead, and I think Chaparro could be another example of that. He was facing more right handed pitching at the end of the year, and I hope that carries over. We actually wrote about how he could be more than a platoon guy during his monster run.

Right now, Chaparro’s primary competition for at bats against RHP is Abimelec Ortiz, who struggled mightily down the stretch. Even though Ortiz is left handed, I think Chaparro is the better option against righties. That could change as we get into the 2027 season, but right now, Chaparro is much more proven.

The biggest drawback for Chaparro is his poor defense. Ideally, Chaparro would be a DH who plays first base occasionally. This season, Chaparro mainly played at first base, where he did not look great. He also got a few games at third, where I do not think he can play.

However, if he hits like he did this season, you simply have to get his bat into the lineup. Chaparro demolished fastballs, does a great job pulling the ball in the air and takes his walks. He is not a contact hitter by any means, but a 23.2% K rate is totally manageable. 

With his big finish to the season, Andres Chaparro positioned himself nicely heading into next season. I think he deserves a shot at everyday playing time. It took him a while to establish himself, but like so many other Nats hitters, he took a major step forward this season.

Season Grade: A-

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The good, the bad and the murky of the Lakers preseason so far

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 8: Sandro Mamukelashvili #54 of the Los Angeles Lakers, Dylan Cardwell #32 of the Sacramento Kings and Matisse Thybulle #26 of the Los Angeles Lakers look on during the game on October 8, 2026 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

First impressions are important. 

Whether it’s your appearance during a job interview, how your jokes land on a blind date or the execution of an offensive set in a team’s preseason game, a lot could be garnered from that first blink.

That said, it’s also easy to get too lost in the noise of small samples. It’s understandable to have knee-jerk reactions, both good and bad, but sifting through the context and finding kernels of truth is the best way to navigate the maze that is the NBA preseason.

Players miss games, rotations are out of whack, effort levels range wildly and playbooks are still a work in progress. 

That’s all been the case for the Lakers in their three preseason games. 

And yet, there have also been flashes of validity worth keeping an eye on. Let’s examine some of those things that could carry over into the season. 

The good

With so much roster turnover and the natural identity shift that comes with LeBron James’ departure, there were expected growing pains heading into the Lakers’ exhibition period.

That’s been seen in various areas already. However, it’s not been as severe as previously assumed. In fact, there has been an immediate and innate chemistry seen on the floor that has been encouraging. 

First-time teammates are flowing and jiving with one and other despite the lack of time together. Whether improvised or organized, the new and returning players are exhibiting a natural chemistry on offense. 

Errant passes and missed defensive rotations are still ongoing. But the intent is there. And the overall enthusiasm has leaped from the screen. 

A big reason for the clean fit is that there is no misconception about roles. With James gone, there is no confusion about the pecking order in terms of shot creation. And as a result, the rest of the team can settle into natural duties and expectations. 

New players like Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams and Sandro Mamukelashvili have specifically benefited from this. 

By embracing their 3-and-D roles and low usage on offense, Thybulle and Williams have stood out as seamless fits next to Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. 

Mamukelashvili, on the other hand, has turned heads by operating as a connector. 

Whether it’s making the extra pass, grabbing and going or just opening up the floor with his spacing ability, he’s filled in whatever gaps the team has needed. 

There are many hurdles the Lakers will have to leap throughout the year as a new team and roster. It’s early, but at least on the cohesion front, they appear ahead of schedule.

The bad

Determining what is real or fake from preseason basketball often depends on how much things would change if regular lineups were used in a game. 

The Lakers, for example, have yet to have all of their core players and expected starters available at the same time through their first three games. Despite this, the absence of players, most notably Walker Kessler, has actually highlighted a concern many had for the team dating back to the summer. 

The question of how the Lakers will fare in non-Kessler minutes feels even more pressing now that we’ve seen their options in action. 

Kevon Looney has done a serviceable job in Kessler’s absence, but his minutes have also displayed where his athletic limitations will hinder his impact the more he’s relied upon.

Head coach JJ Redick has also experimented with going small by playing Mamukelashvili at the five spot. The offensive upside definitely improves, but there’s a clear defensive ceiling to those groups and likely will be better in moderation. 

Kessler’s absence has also highlighted the team’s overall rebounding deficiencies. 

While preseason stats definitely should be taken with a grain of salt, the lineup and roster construction show some validity to why the Lakers have allowed the fourth-highest offensive rebound percentage in the preseason thus far. 

Things may have also been exacerbated by Redick’s preference to use his bigger wings/forwards as point-of-attack defenders. This often leaves the guards tasked with helping secure boards against their bigger opponents. 

Kessler won’t solve the team’s rebounding concerns on his own, but he will surely help considerably. The issue is that if he ever misses any significant time this season, this weakness could turn into a severe flaw. 

The murkiness

As is typically the case with the preseason, there are still lingering questions that will require answers. Chief among them is what the rotation will actually look like once every one is available. 

Safe assumptions can be made given the types of lineups Redick has deployed thus far. A player like Williams, for example, seems to be in the lead to secure the final starting spot. 

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Jarred Vanderbilt appears out of the immediate rotation given being used sparingly and mainly in garbage time despite the number of players the team has missed. 

The team must also still shed at least one player prior to opening night to remain in league compliance. 

Even more severe than Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht’s playing time opportunities seem to be slim at best, making him the leading candidate to be cut if the Lakers opt to go that route. 

The other potential victim of the roster crunch could be Jaden Hardy. The guard has struggled in his chances this preseason and may cut into the minutes of the younger backcourt players on the roster. What is in Hardy’s favor in making the final squad is the helpfulness of his expiring $6 million contract for potential trades down the line. 

Answers to these questions will naturally arise as we inch closer to the regular season. And while the games technically won’t matter until then, there are still moments and decisions now that could have important ramifications when they do. 

All stats courtesy of Cleaning the Glass unless otherwise stated. You can follow Alex on Bluesky at @alexregla.bsky.social.

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Blackhawks Vs Hurricanes: Projected Lineup, How To Watch, & More Ahead Of Game 6

The Chicago Blackhawks are back in Chicago with a 1-4-0 record. They won their only game at the United Center, but are winless on the road through four tries. Now, they are returning home to take on the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes (3-1-1). 

If the Blackhawks are going to get a second win at home, they need to be on top of their game. They would need to play better than they did in any game so far this season. 

Scouting Carolina

The Carolina Hurricanes have a ferocious attack, and they defend as well as any team in the NHL. They finally broke through in the playoffs last season with their current core, winning the Stanley Cup for the second time in franchise history. 

There is not one forward or defenseman who drives the bus offensively, but they have a ton of talent and defend well as an overall unit. 

Carrier - Aho -Svechnikov

Hall - Stankoven - Blake

Ehlers -Staal -Martinook

Kotkaniemi -Jankowski -Robinson

Slavin - Chatfield

Miller - Walker

Gostisbehere - Reilly

Bussi

Kochetkov

The Hurricanes are missing Seth Jarvis, who has yet to play this season because of off-season surgery. He is close to returning, which will be a big boost to their already stacked lineup, but it won't be against the Chicago Blackhawks. 

Whether it is Bussi or Kochetkov in the net, they play strongly in front of them, allowing them to play their game and simply make saves. 

Their top nine forward group is so strong. There are Olympians on all three lines who could drive the offense as well as anyone on the team. On any given night, one of them can be the trio that beats you. 

On defense, they have three strong pairs. With that said, Jaccob Slavin is the best defensive defenseman in the NHL. He doesn't put up a lot of points, but he may be the hardest to play against in the league. When he's on the ice, the Blackhawks will have thier hands full when it comes to trying to create. 

Projected Lines, Defense Pairs, & Goalie For Chicago

The Blackhawks are still without Connor Bedard, who is recovering from shoulder surgery. They are also without Frank Nazar now, who will miss the next two games serving a two-game suspension for an illegal check to the head. 

The good news for them is that Teuvo Teravainen is good to go after missing Thursday's game with an injury. 

Lardis-Greene-Kane

Kantserov-Frondell-Bertuzzi

Smith-Moore-Greenway

Donato-Toninato-Teravainen

Byram-Levshunov

Vlasic-Cole

Kaiser-Rinzel

Knight

Injuries and suspensions are forcing Jeff Blashill to make changes regularly. Ryan Greene is getting a chance to be that top-line center with Patrick Kane. Nick Lardis, who hasn't had a strong start, is getting a chance on that line as he tries to break out of it. 

The rest of the forward lines are jumbled up, but Anton Frondell and Oliver Moore are getting their chance to serve as centers. 

On defense, the pairs remain the same as in the last game. For now, this might be the group that works for them. Spencer Knight is going to start in goal. 

How To Watch

The game can be heard locally on AM 720 WGN in the Chicagoland area. It can be seen locally on CHSN. Nationally, you can stream it on ESPN+. The puck will drop shortly after 6:00 PM CT. 

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Max Verstappen takes F1 Singapore GP pole from Leclerc after sprint win

  • Hamilton qualifies third with Antonelli fourth

  • Russell crashed out of sprint when leading on lap one

While Red Bull and Max Verstappen were very much on a roll at the Singapore Grand Prix with victory in the sprint and then pole position, Britain’s George Russell was left having to roll with the punches. His vanishingly slight title hopes took another blow after he crashed out of the sprint race on the streets of the Marina Bay circuit.

Verstappen’s pole was a mighty lap to beat the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc into second by five-hundredths of a second as the Dutchman enjoys his best form of the season. A 50th pole, his first in Singapore coming on the back of a pole and win at the last round in Malaysia and pole and victory in the sprint at Marina Bay.

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Ed Olczyk Named As Blackhawks Ambassador, Will Be CHSN Analyst

On Saturday morning, the Chicago Blackhawks announced that Ed Olczyk will be a team ambassador. He is joining Denis Savard, Chris Chelios, Jeremy Roenick, and Pat Foley in that role. 

As an ambassador, he connects the franchise's past with the present. He is also tasked with helping grow the game across Chicagoland. He will also participate in many events over the years. 

"Eddie Olczyk is part of the fabric of this franchise and this city. From the kid who grew up cheering in the stands, to the player who wore the sweater on home ice, to the voice that brought Blackhawks hockey into Chicago homes for years, few people have meant more to our fans," said Blackhawks President of Business Operations Jaime Faulkner. "We're thrilled to welcome Eddie home as a Blackhawks Ambassador, and we know our fans will be just as excited to see him back where he belongs."

Olczyk is a Chicago native who also played for the Blackhawks. He was their third overall pick in the 1984 NHL Draft. He also won the Stanley Cup as a member of the New York Rangers in 1994. Throughout his playing career, he also had stints with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Winnipeg Jets. He recorded 794 career points over those tenures. 

When he retired, he did some coaching. He served as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins for Sidney Crosby's rookie season. After that, he had a long 16-year run as a color analyst on TV. 

The Blackhawks announced that he will return to the television screens as part of this as a studio analyst on CHSN. That will be for select games, including Saturday night's game against the Carolina Hurricanes. 

"The Blackhawks have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Chicago dreaming about this team, and I got to live that dream by pulling on the sweater as a player and telling the story of this franchise as a broadcaster," said Olczyk. "To come home and represent the Blackhawks as an ambassador means more to me than I can put into words. I want to thank Danny Wirtz and Jaime Faulkner for welcoming me back and making this possible. Chicago is my home, the Blackhawks are my team, and my family and I are thrilled to be back with our fans."

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Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay up to date on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive, and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting on the article below on THN.com or by creating your own post in our community forum.

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Today in Cubs history: A five-run ninth inning rally wins a World Series game

Frank Chance, player/manager for the 1908 Cubs | | Photo by Chicago History Museum/Getty Images

We’re setting the BCB “Wayback Machine” pretty far back today, all the way back to one of the Cubs’ World Series wins in the early 20th Century.

That win might not have been possible without the team’s tremendous rally in the top of the ninth inning in Game 1 in 1908.

The Cubs had quite a rough road to even get to the 1908 World Series. They had to win the makeup for the famous “Merkle Game,” played in New York in September and declared a tie after the final play descended into chaos at the Polo Grounds. That game was played Oct. 8 in New York and Mordecai Brown outdueled Christy Mathewson. The Cubs’ 4-2 win put them in the World Series against the Tigers, who also had to win their final regular season game to take the AL pennant.

But the Tigers had done that Oct. 6, so they had three days to get ready for Game 1 of the World Series in Detroit. The Cubs, meanwhile, had to take a train from New York to Detroit and had only one day off. Ed Reulbach was given the start for Game 1.

I.E. Sanborn of the Chicago Tribune noted that the entire game was played in a constant steady rain:

The battle took place under the most wretched conditions imaginable, as it was started in the early stages of a rain storm which never ceased and it was finished on a field so soggy that footing was insecure and the base lines almost two inches deep in mud.

Reulbach allowed the Tigers a run in the first inning, and in the top of the third, the Cubs responded with four of their own, adding a run in the seventh to lead 5-1 with just nine outs to go.

When Reunlach allowed Detroit three runs in the seventh, Orval Overall was summoned to put out the rally, but when he issued a leadoff walk in the eighth, Cubs manager Frank Chance called on Brown on one day’s rest. It did not work. Brown began by throwing a wild pitch and after an error put runners on first and third, gave up a single that scored the tying run. Another Cubs error gave Detroit a 6-5 lead, so they needed just three outs to win Game 1.

Here’s how Sanborn wrote up the Cubs’ ninth-inning rally.

When Rossman cut off Evers’ grounder to start the ninth and succeeded in retiring the Trojan without help the roars of the crowd increased as apparently victory became assured. But a frightfully rude awakening was in store for them. Schulte rapped a bounder to O’Leary, who cut it off in deep short, but was unable to throw the fleet footed Dutchman out.

Chance turned the tide of defeat back right there with a ringing single to center. That put the Tigers in the hole and sent their rooters’ hearts into their throats, for a one run lead looked small enough with Cubs on second and first with one out.

Here came Steinfeldt and completed the despair of the crowd by smashing a single into left. McIntyre came in on it and his good throw held Schulte on third. Still Detroit had a lead of a run, but the sacks were full and some determined Cubs were coming to bat. Hofman settled the verdict with a liner into left on which Schulte and Chance both rode home in safety. McIntyre made a desperate throw to the plate trying to stop the winning run, but the ball shot past Schmidt behind Chance as he flashed across the pan.

Steinfeldt went to third on the play to the plate and Tinker scored him with a bunt which did not go twenty feet from the plate, but which completed the utter rout of the Tigers. Schmidt tried to chase the bunt and cover the plate at the same time, as Summers made no move to help him do either. But it was a useless effort. While Steiny scored, Tinker reached first and Hofman second. Then Artie and Joe got together and showed the Tigers up still further by ringing in a double steal in the mud. Kling scored them both with a single into center, which made the fifth run in the inning. Brown bunted, but Sheckard’s fly closed the session.

They don’t write ‘em like that anymore, that’s for sure. The Cubs led by four, and Brown put two Tigers on base with one out by a walk and a single in the bottom of the ninth, then retired Sam Crawford on a fly ball and Ty Cobb on a comebacker and the Cubs won Game 1 of the 1908 World Series 10-6. They would go on to win three of the next four, two by shutout, and take their second straight World Series title.

This rain-soaked rally happened 118 years ago today, Saturday, Oct. 10, 1908.

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Preview: The Avs Host the Toronto Maple Leafs at Ball Arena Tonight

CALGARY, CANADA - OCTOBER 08: Jaden Schwartz #71 of the Colorado Avalanche and Scott Wedgewood #41 celebrate their 7-3 win against the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome on October 08, 2026 in Calgary, Alberta. (Photo by Leah Hennel/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After coming home with a split on the road, the Colorado Avalanche are back on home ice for another Saturday night showdown!

Tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs make their only regular season visit to Denver, with a few new faces in their lineup!

Colorado Avalanche (3-1-0)

The Opponent: Toronto Maple Leafs (2-2-01)

Time: 5:00 P.M. MDT/7:00 P.M. EDT

Watch: ALT, ALT+ (Avalanche Local Broadcast Area), NHL Network, NHL Center Ice (Outside Regional Broadcast Areas – US), SN+ (Canadian National Broadcast)

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio KKSE-FM 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche

The Avs return home after splitting their first pair of back-to-back road games. They lost 3-2 on a (literal) last minute goal this past Wednesday against the Winnipeg Jets, but rebounded with a strong showing against the Calgary Flames in a 7-3 victory this past Thursday. The loss in Winnipeg was the first for Mackenzie Blackwood this season, while Scott Wedgewood earned his first win in his season debut against Calgary.

Jaden Schwartz scored three goals across both contests. Fedor Svechkov scored his first goal in an Avalanche sweater against Winnipeg. Zachary L’Heureux, acquired with Svechkov from Nashville in the offseason, made his Avalanche debut against Winnipeg and recorded his first assist on Nathan MacKinnon’s eventual game-winning goal in Calgary. L’Heureux also had his first fight for the Avs in a short bout with Calgary’s Matt Coronato.

Devon Toews, who had a career-low three goals last season, scored a pair of goals against Calgary. His defensive partner in Cale Makar also scored a pair of goals against his hometown team.

T.J. Hughes also recorded his first point of his NHL career, assisting on Schwartz’s first goal on against Calgary.

Head coach Jared Bednar said this of his third line in comments after the Calgary game. “That line’s found a little bit of chemistry. A couple of points each [Wednesday] night, again tonight. Schwartz and [Svechkov] and our young guy Hughes on that line, they’re doing some good things, and if we can keep building that chemistry, I like where that line’s going.”

When asked about what Hughes and L’Heureux have shown to this point in the season, Bednar said, “Hughes has fit in in all kinds of ways for us, including on the top power play. He’s a smart guy, doesn’t throw the puck away, really good passer. I think he he thinks the game really well, got a great brain and hockey sense. Can play on the top end skill guys and make plays.

“L’Heureux, this is kind of our first look at him here on this back to back […] He’s a rugged guy, straight-line player, will play through you, kind of fits the identity of our fourth line. He had a good night again tonight. I really liked his game [Wednesday] in Winnipeg. […] We’re excited about our team and some of those young guys being able to come in and help us. [Svechkov] is another young player that’s really showed up nicely for us here at the start of the season.”

While the Avs remain perfect on the penalty kill, the power play has gone three games without a goal since going 4/5 in the season opener against Los Angeles on September 30.

MacKinnon leads all skaters in points (8) and assists (5), while also sharing the team lead in penalty minutes (5) with L’Heureux. He also leads the team in goals (3), along with Makar, Schwartz, and Artturi Lehkonen.

The Avs have split every season series against Toronto going back to the 2017-2018 season. Their last victory on home ice came against Toronto was in a 7-3 victory on March 05, 2025.

Projected Lineup

Forwards:
Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas
Gabe Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Nazem Kadri
Jaden Schwartz – Fedor Svechkov – T.J. Hughes
Parker Kelly – Nicolas Roy – Zachary L’Heureux

Defense:
Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Brett Kulak – Sam Malinski
Josh Manson – Brent Burns

Between the Pipes:
Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Toronto Maple Leafs

The lottery balls finally bounced Toronto’s way this offseason, giving them the first overall pick in this year’s NHL Draft. At the draft in June, they selected left-wing Gavin McKenna, whom many projected to be the top pick of the draft. McKenna scored his first goal and assist of his young NHL career this past Tuesday in a 5-4 overtime victory over the Nashville Predators.

The draft was one of many offseason transactions for Toronto. They sent a fifth round pick in this year’s draft to the Tampa Bay Lightning for defenseman Darren Raddysh on June 19; Raddysh signed an eight-year, $68 million dollar contract with Toronto as part of the transaction. Toronto also acquired center Nick Paul from Tampa in exchange for goaltender Dennis Hildeby and a pair of draft picks in 2027 & 2028 on July 01.

As free agency began, Toronto’s overhaul continued. Free agent goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky signed a three-year, $21 million dollar contract (more on him later). That same day, noted Avalanche killer Colton Sissons also signed to a two-year, $8.5 million dollar contract, and former Avalanche forward Brandon Duhaime also signed a three-year $7.8 million dollar contract.

Shortly before the start of the season, Toronto made their biggest move: they acquired right-wing Kirill Marchenko, goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, and former Avalanche forward Miles Wood from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for left-wings Matthew Knies and Steven Lorentz, defenseman Emil Andrei, and a 2027 second round pick. Marchenko, 26, scored his first (and so far, only) goal with Toronto in a 3-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators on October 03.

With an overhauled roster come overhauled expectations. Toronto has risen to the occasion in the way only a Toronto-based hockey team can: playing .500 hockey. They are 2-2-1 to start the season, and are coming into tonight’s game off a 4-3 defeat against the Vegas Golden Knights this past Thursday. After jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first period, Toronto did the Leafiest thing possible in allowing Vegas to score three unanswered goals to tie the game and lose in the shootout round.

The loss was Bobrovsky’s third of the season, and since joining Toronto, he has yet to post a win. Anthony Stolarz, who was Bobrovsky’s backup in Florida during 2023-2024 season, has recorded both wins for Toronto this season.

Head coach Jim Hiller spoke on the challenge of facing the Avs ahead of tonight’s game. “They play a pretty unique style of game, I would say. They are a really dynamic rush team. The defense probably skate as well as six [defenders] as any other group in the League, so it presents some challenges defensively for sure.

“For us, I think, we’ve got to continue to focus on being in the offensive zone and tight support. We’ve seen some good strides that way. That’s the best defense, really: if you can just hold onto pucks and be dangerous and tire people out—which Vegas did to us—we weren’t able to create any offense because we were too tired, so that’s kind of the game we have to play against Colorado.”

Hiller also mentioned that he does not expect John Tavares to play against Colorado tonight due to the birth of his son Tucker on Friday.

William Nylander and Auston Matthews are tied for first among all Toronto forwards in points (6). Nylander leads the team in goals (3), while Matthews leads the team in assists (4).

Toronto’s last victory over Colorado came on January 12th, a 4-3 overtime victory at Ball Arena last season.

Projected Lineup

Forwards:
Kirill Marchenko – Auston Matthews – Jack Roslovic
Easton Cowan – Nick Paul – William Nylander
Gavin McKenna – Teddy Blueger – Colton Sissons
Brandon Duhaime – Zack MacEwen – Bo Groulx

Defense:
Jake McCabe – Chris Tanev
Morgan Reilly – Darren Raddysh
Oliver Ekman-Larsson – Troy Stecher

Between the Pipes:
Sergei Bobrovsky
Anthony Stolarz

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Public Skate: Bruins vs. Flyers

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 22: Nikita Zadorov #91 of the Boston Bruins grabs the puck during a preseason game between the Boston Bruins and the Philadelphia Flyers on September 22, 2026, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Bruins are back in action on home ice today for their first matinée game of the season.

They’ll play host to a struggling Philadelphia Flyers team that is still looking for its first win of the new campaign.

Given the early start time, you get the ever-popular PUBLIC PREVIEW!

What to know

  • It has been a rough start to the season for the Flyers, who come into this afternoon’s game at 0-3-2. They’re one of just three NHL teams without a win to start the season, and the only one of those three in the Eastern Conference.
  • They lost their last two games in regulation, dropping 4-1 and 2-1 road decisions to Tampa and Ottawa, respectively.
  • Offense has been a challenge for the Flyers, who come into this afternoon’s game dead last in the NHL at just 1.20 GF/G. Unfortunately for Philly, they’re also allowing the eighth-most goals per game on average, so…not ideal.
  • After a good season for the Flyers last year, former Bruin Dan Vladar has gotten off to a tough start this season. He’s 0-2-0 with a whopping 5.12 GAA.
  • At least some sections of Flyers punditry are calling this a must-win game at this early juncture of the season. That may be a little extreme, but if nothing else, it’s pretty clear that pressure is mounting on Rick Tocchet and the Flyers.
  • Marco Sturm noted that Sean Kuraly was “pretty upset” about being a healthy scratch again on Thursday night. While it’s certainly understandable for Kuraly to be mad about not playing, Matt Poitras has played well since drawing back into the lineup.
  • After scoring three power play goals in Thursday’s win over Utah, you hope that the Bruins can build on that momentum this afternoon. Philly’s PK has been below average this season, with the Flyers sitting at 22nd in the league as of this morning.

Given the 1 PM Saturday start time and the fact that this is Bruins-Flyers, you could be forgiven for assuming this would be a national broadcast.

However, because of college football and all of that stuff, these early season matinées tend to be local broadcasts instead, and this one is no different: today’s game will be broadcast on NESN and 98.5 The Sports Hub, though it’ll be on NHL Network out of market as well.

Bruins! Flyers! WHILE IT’S STILL LIGHT OUTSIDE!

Discuss.

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Saturday morning Rangers stuff

ARLINGTON, TX - SEPTEMBER 06: Manager Skip Schumaker #55 of the Texas Rangers celebrates a home run hit by Jake Burger #21 during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Globe Life Field on September 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Kai Kanzer/Texas Rangers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, LSB.

The Rangers offered updates on Corey Seager and Josh Jung, et al.

Sebastian Walcott is settled in Arizona and feeling blessed to be healthy.

And Fangraphs ranks the best Division Series of all time. You’re not gonna like it.

That’s all for this morning. Have a great weekend and Boomer.

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Sixers head to Boston for penultimate preseason game

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 02: Vj Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers a three point basket during the third quarter of a game against the Boston Celtics in Game Seven of the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at TD Garden on May 02, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Philadelphia 76ers split their first two preseason games, and will now head to Boston for their penultimate preseason contest against the Celtics.

Before the preseason began, head coach Nick Nurse said the plan was for the team’s key players to appear in two of the three exhibition games. After the starting five made its debut in Brooklyn the other night, it seems likely Nurse will sit some players on Saturday. We’ll see if Nurse opts to play his regulars tonight or wait for the preseason finale next Friday in South Philly.

One of the game’s more interesting storylines will be Jaylen Brown’s return to Boston after being traded this summer. While a preseason game doesn’t carry the same weight as a regular-season matchup, it’s still worth watching. The Sixers won’t face the Celtics again until November, and they won’t return to Boston during the regular season until the calendar flips. Brown played in the first two preseason games. We’ll see if he plays in his return to Boston or he saves that for the regular season.

Like Philadelphia, Boston enters the season with several new faces. Paul George now joins Jayson Tatum as one of the franchise’s cornerstone players, while veteran additions Mike Conley and Mitchell Robinson bring experience and depth. Robinson, in particular, could present an intriguing matchup against Joel Embiid once the games start to matter. Even after moving on from a former Finals MVP, the Celtics remain one of the Eastern Conference’s top contenders and a team the Sixers may cross paths with when the stakes are higher.

The Sixers looked sharp in the first half against Brooklyn, creating quality looks as the Nets struggled to account for all of their offensive options. That opened the door for players like VJ Edgecombe to find plenty of space and easy scoring opportunities. It’s still the preseason, and there’s only so much to take away from October basketball, but Philadelphia’s offense showed encouraging signs in their first game. Boston, a much stronger opponent on paper, should provide a better measuring stick — if the starters play.

The Sixers will also be keeping an eye on a few injury situations. Anfernee Simons, Dominick Barlow and Adem Bona are all expected to remain sidelined. In their absence, Jabari Walker has stepped into the backup center role and has put together a strong preseason so far. We’ve also seen some of their two-way players, Caleb Love and Rayan Rupert, step up and produce in limited time.

The Sixers have plenty to clean up. Joel Embiid looked healthy and moved well, but his eight turnovers were part of a larger issue, as Philadelphia committed too many careless mistakes throughout the night. The talent and potential are obvious. Now it’s about building chemistry, finding a rhythm, and developing consistency as the group settles in.

As the preseason winds down, the focus for Philadelphia will be on cutting down the self-inflicted mistakes, continuing to build cohesion, and getting through the game healthy. The Sixers showed encouraging flashes against Brooklyn, but Boston presents a much tougher challenge and should provide a better indication of where this group stands heading into the regular season. Preseason or not, though, a win over the Celtics is always welcome.

Game Details

When: Thursday, October 9, 8 p.m. ET
Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA
Watch: NBCSP, NBA TV

Radio: 97.5 The Fanatic
Follow:@LibertyBallers

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Game Preview: Raptors vs. Clippers still fascinating without Kawhi

QUEBEC CITY, CANADA - OCTOBER 03: Immanuel Quickley #5 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball past Davion Mitchell #2 of the Miami Heat during the first half in a preseason NBA game at the Videotron Centre on October 3, 2026 in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. 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 Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images) | Getty Images

While Kawhi Leonard’s official return will have to wait, the Toronto Raptors’ upcoming pre-season contest against the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday should have no shortage of fascinating storylines, particularly for those wondering about what kind of progress players have made over the summer.

With tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m. EST on TSN, fans in Vancouver could potentially be treated to the most accurate glimpse of the roster’s ceiling (or baseline). It would be a small sample size, but Raptors Nation is eager to find out if the roster has improved enough to support its newest superstar.

Here are three thoughts headed into the game:

The actual dress rehearsal?

Even without Leonard, the penultimate exhibition game could serve as the first (and last) real look at what the rest of the team looks like. Should Head Coach Darko Rajakovic rest his starters or have them operating on limited minutes, then this matchup will be the one to overanalyze.

In their 129-105 loss to the Miami Heat on Oct. 3, the Raptors were without nine players. That group included key players like Leonard, Allen Graves, Jamison Battle, Alijah Martin, Kyle Anderson and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Toronto shot 12/41 (29 per cent) from deep, driving fans to wonder if another season of poor shooting awaits around the corner. Should Graves and Battle be healthy enough to suit up, that’ll be a decent amount of added firepower.

It would also be the first time audiences watch Graves on the court with Scottie Barnes. They’re both jumbo playmakers that wreak havoc on defence. If Barnes is healthy enough to play (he suffered a minor knee scare against the Heat), it’ll be interesting to see how he and Graves play off each other. That first defensive highlight or big-to-big pass will do numbers on social media.

This is a big season for Battle, who is in the final year of his contract. Shooters become game-changing components of an elite offence when next to a legit star like Leonard.

Go watch Immanuel Quickley

If a player like Battle can dramatically impact win probabilities while playing next to elite talent, then someone like Immanuel Quickley is capable of earning end-of-season honours. It’s difficult to see Toronto with three All-Stars. It’s doubtful the team ends up with three players on one of the All-NBA teams. But Quickley could get into discussions, especially for the Most Improved Player, if he can reach the levels he did during the backend of his tenure with the New York Knicks.

The discourse around General Manager and Executive Vice-President Bobby Webster potentially acquiring someone like Kyrie Irving is thought-provoking. However, Quickley’s success can shield Toronto from spending even more of its resources. When Quickley is at his best, he’s truly the perfect type of guard next to Leonard on the offensive side of the ball: an elite catch-and-shoot guard with intimidating range, who is also capable of attacking closeouts with a reliable floater.

The rookie impresses early

Graves is the type of player who excels when surrounded by professional talent. In his first game with actual NBA players, don’t be surprised if he meshes perfectly with his teammates. Graves is the connective tissue on offence. He could play the “offensive hub” role that Barnes normally occupies, especially when the latter hits the bench. On the defensive end, Graves was praised for his active and quick hands. He’ll join an army of defenders that patrolled passing lanes at an elite level during the 2025-26 season.

Prediction: 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 block, two made threes, and a fun sequence with Collin Murray-Boyles

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Buffalo Sabres Vs. Utah Mammoth – Lineups, Injury Updates, And Game Notes

Game 5 - 10/10/26 - 7:00 pm at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo – 2-2-0 | - 4 points – 6th place in the Atlantic Division

Utah – 3-2-0 | - 6 points – 3rd place in the Central Division

 

Special Teams

Buffalo

Power Play – 0.0% (32nd)

Penalty Kill – 63.6% (28th)

Utah

Power Play – 40.0% (1st)

Penalty Kill - 77.8% (T-19th)

 

Top Scorers

Buffalo

Owen Power: 4 GP, 1 G, 4 A, 5 PTS

Tage Thompson: 4 GP, 2 G, 2 A, 4 PTS

Noah Östlund: 4 GP, 1 G, 2 A, 3 PTS

Utah

Nick Schmaltz: 5 GP, 5 G, 2 A, 7 PTS

Clayton Keller: 5 GP, 1 G, 6 A, 7 PTS

Dylan Guenther: 5 GP, 3 G, 3 A, 6 PTS

 

Starting Goalies

Buffalo –  Colten Ellis (1-0-0, 1.86 GAA, .900 Sv %)

Utah  – Karel Vejmelka (2-1-0, 2.43 GAA, .892 Sv %)

Other Sabres Stories

Mrtka Looking To Take The Next Step Towards The NHL 

Owen Power off to strong start

Sabres Line Combinations and Pairings 

Forwards

Peyton Krebs - Jiri Kulich - Tage Thompson

Zach Benson - Noah Ostlund - Jack Quinn 

Josh Norris - Ryan McLeod - Konsta Helenius

Josh Doan - Justin Danforth - Beck Malenstyn

Ex. Sam Carrick

Defense

Mattias Samuelsson - Rasmus Dahlin 

Owen Power - Louis Crevier 

Olen Zellweger - Zach Metsa

Ex. Matt Grzelcyk 

Goaltenders

Colten Ellis

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

Notes

A win tonight would give the Sabres their first-ever victory over the Mammoth. Buffalo is 19-1-3 against Western Conference opponents dating back to Dec. 9, 2025.

The Sabres are 7-1-2 against Central Division opponents in that span. Buffalo is tied for the third-fewest goals allowed in the third period among all NHL teams (2) this season. Buffalo ranks fourth among all NHL teams in shot attempts differential at 5-on-5 (plus-65).

The Sabres rank second in shot attempts differential at 5-on-5 when  trailing (plus-55).

Owen Power has posted five points (1+4) in Buffalo’s first four games. A point in tonight’s game would make him the first Sabres defenseman since Rasmus Dahlin (Oct. 3 to 11, 2019; 5+3) to record six or more points in their first five games of a season. An assist in tonight’s game would make him the first Sabres defenseman since Dahlin (Oct. 13 to 22, 2022; 1+6) to record five or more assists in their first five games of a season. He would become the 10th defenseman in franchise history to do so at least once.

Rasmus Dahlin (26:45) and Power (26:16) rank sixth and ninth, respectively, in time on ice per game among all NHL skaters.

Colten Ellis made his first start of 2026-27 on Oct. 6 vs. Minnesota and made 18 saves on 20 shots in the overtime victory.

A win in tonight’s game would mark the first time he has earned a win in two consecutive games in his career

Injuries

Alex Lyon (upper body)  

Conor Timmins (lower body; injured reserve) 

Jason Zucker (sports hernia; injured reserve) 

Topias Leinonen (lower body; injured reserve) 

Jack Rathbone (lower body; injured reserve) 

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo

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THN.com/Free
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Kings' Marquee Signing Set to Miss Weeks After Injury

The Los Angeles Kings are already facing questions about their biggest offseason signing.

Mats Zuccarello is expected to miss the next few weeks with a shoulder injury, leaving the team without one of its most notable additions just three games into the season.

The Kings recalled forward Jared Wright from the AHL’s Ontario Reign early Saturday morning after learning Zuccarello would not travel with the team to Las Vegas. NHL.com’s Zach Dooley reported that the veteran had been ruled out of Sunday’s matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Zuccarello signed a one-year deal with Los Angeles this summer, but he has recorded just one assist through three games and is now facing several weeks away from the lineup. Apparently, banking on a nearly 40-year-old to help strengthen your offense comes with a few issues.

The former Minnesota Wild had been dealing with a shoulder issue during training camp as well, albeit it is unclear whether that problem is related.

In Zuccarello’s absence, Wright gets another opportunity to make an impression. Los Angeles selected Wright in the sixth round of the 2022 NHL Draft, and he has spent the past few seasons working his way through the organization.

Wright has already had a taste of the NHL. He suited up for the Kings 23 times last season, picking up four assists while averaging just over 11 minutes per game. He also chipped in defensively, recording 18 blocked shots and 27 hits.

His offensive numbers were stronger with Ontario, where he scored 17 goals and finished with 30 points in 54 games during the 2025-26 season. Wright has carried that momentum into the new AHL campaign, recording two goals and three points with a plus-one rating through the Reign’s first two games.

Wright now has another chance to establish himself at the NHL level. He is not expected to make a huge impact but the Kings will need contributions from their depth forwards while their marquee offseason signing recovers.

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CSR Weekend Warriors

Greetings, Panthers fans. Welcome to the weekend.

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