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Ellis Steps In And Steps Up With Shutout Performance Against Blue Jackets

The news going into the Buffalo Sabres contest against the Columbus Blue Jackets was concerning, as head coach Lindy Ruff indicated that veteran goalie Alex Lyon pulled a muscle in New York City on Wednesday and would be out at least a week with a lower-body injury. The injury meant that rookie Colten Ellis would be making his first start in over two months, but the youngster stepped up with a 37-save performance in a 5-0 victory to earn his first career shutout and the Sabres a key two points in their race to win the Atlantic Division. 

"(Ellis is) the ultimate competitor. He's doing all a lot of extra skates with our extra players. Every time he steps in the net in practice, he's trying to make sure he doesn't get scored against," Ruff said after the game. "(He is the) first guy to the rink a lot of times, almost every day. I think that's part of routine that leads a lot of great habits." 

The 25-year-old was claimed off of waivers in October and has remained as the third goalie behind Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Lyon all year, but has been needed to step in as both veterans have been injured for stretches this season, and has posted a very respectable 8-4-1 record in 13 starts. Ellis has served as the backup for both veterans on most nights, and did get into a game last weekend after Lyon allowed three goals in less than six minutes. 

"When I put him in in Washington, a little bit of a different situation, he didn't feel that comfortable. But I think knowing that he was going to play and preparing to play really helped him out." Ruff said. "Halfway through the first period, it just looked like he just had himself in a great place." 

After taking the lead in the first on a Peyton Krebs goal, the Sabres seemed to be holding on for dear life, with Columbus outshooting them 14-4 in the second, but Josh Doan’s first of two goals midway through the third period seemed to open the floodgates, as Buffalo scored four goals to pull away. The win was critical for the Sabres in their quest for home-ice advantage in the first round.

According to Moneypuck.com, after the Montreal Canadiens beat Tampa Bay 2-1 at the Bell Centre on Thursday, Buffalo has a 73.7% chance of winning the division, and a 95.4% chance of having home-ice advantage in the first round. Both the Habs and Lightning have a game in hand, but the Canadiens is two points behind the Sabres, and Tampa Bay is four points back. 

Buffalo and the entire NHL have the day off on Friday, but the Sabres next game is not until Monday in Chicago against the Blackhawks and finish the regular season against the Dallas Stars at home next Wednesday. 

Other Sabres Stories

Six Former Sabres Who Signed Elsewhere

Lindy Ruff - Jack Adams favorite?

The Buffalo Sabres 2024 Draft may be the only group that former GM Kevyn Adams selected that will yield NHL prospects outside of the first round. Top pick Konsta Helenius is thriving in his second pro season in Rochester, second-rounder Adam Kleber won with Team USA at the World Junior in 2025 and is a big, righty blueliner, and third-rounder Brodie Ziemer was one of the best scorers in the NCAA last season, netting 23 goals as a sophomore at the University of Minnesota, but two more '24 picks will have a chance to add an NCAA Championship to their resumes.

Fourth-rounder Luke Osburn and seventh-rounder Vasily Zelenov and the Wisconsin Badgers will take on Denver U. in the Final on Saturday. Osburn won the USHL defenseman of the year in 2025 with Youngstown, surprisingly made Team USA's World Junior squad last December, and posted 21 points with Wisconsin as a freshman. Zelenov played his youth hockey in Austria, played one season in Green Bay of the USHL, and had 18 points in his freshman season with the Badgers.   

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo

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Canucks’ Brock Boeser Nominated For 2026 King Clancy Trophy

Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser has been selected as his team’s nominee for the 2026 King Clancy Memorial Trophy. The award is given to the player that “best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community.”

Boeser, who has been with the Canucks since being drafted in 2015, signed a seven-year extension with the team during the 2025 off-season and is one of only four players who have spent more than five seasons with the team. Last night, he took sole possession of eighth all-time in franchise history in points scored by a Canuck with 479. 

The award is voted on by a panel featuring NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman as well as former winners of both the King Clancy Trophy and the NHL Foundation Player Award. A $25,000 donation will be given to the winner’s charity of choice. 

Throughout history, three members of the Canucks have won this award: Trevor Linden (1997), Henrik Sedin (2016, 2018), and Daniel Sedin (2018.) 

Here is the full list of this year’s nominees. 

Anaheim Ducks: Lukas Dostal

Boston Bruins: Jordan Harris

Buffalo Sabres: Alex Tuch

Calgary Flames: Jonathan Huberdeau

Carolina Hurricanes: Jaccob Slavin

Chicago Blackhawks: Alex Vlasic

Colorado Avalanche: Sam Malinski

Columbus Blue Jackets: Boone Jenner

Dallas Stars: Jake Oettinger

Detroit Red Wings: Dylan Larkin

Edmonton Oilers: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins

Florida Panthers: Sam Bennett

Los Angeles Kings: Kevin Fiala

Minnesota Wild: Marcus Foligno

Montreal Canadiens: Nick Suzuki

Nashville Predators: Ryan O'Reilly

New Jersey Devils: Jack Hughes

New York Islanders: Kyle Palmieri

New York Rangers: Adam Fox

Ottawa Senators: Linus Ullmark

Philadelphia Flyers: Garnet Hathaway

Pittsburgh Penguins: Bryan Rust

San Jose Sharks: Alexander Wennberg

Seattle Kraken: Joey Daccord

St. Louis Blues: Colton Parayko

Tampa Bay Lightning: Ryan McDonagh

Toronto Maple Leafs: John Tavares

Utah Mammoth: Alex Kerfoot

Vancouver Canucks: Brock Boeser

Vegas Golden Knights: Jack Eichel

Washington Capitals: Alex Ovechkin

Winnipeg Jets: Gabriel Vilardi

Apr 2, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser (6) shoots the puck against the Minnesota Wild during the first period at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser (6) shoots the puck against the Minnesota Wild during the first period at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images

Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.

Latest From THN’s Vancouver Canucks Site:

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Suns vs Lakers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

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LeBron James was asked what the Los Angeles Lakers need from him in these final games of the regular season.

His answer was simple: Everything.

With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves injured, James is battling to keep L.A. as the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. And he’s done just that – everything – for the Lakers, totaling 56 points, 26 assists, and 17 rebounds the past two games.

Our Suns vs. Lakers predictions see LeBron’s stat line taking a step back Friday, at least in one category.

My NBA picks are playing it cool with LeBron’s assist total tonight.

Suns vs Lakers prediction

Suns vs Lakers best bet: LeBron James Under 9.5 Assists (-120)

With Luka Doncic down, LeBron James has taken over as the Los Angeles Lakers’ primary ball handler, and that’s pumped up his passing potential, recording 11 and 15 dimes the past two games. 

However, while LeBron has been doing it all for L.A., he could get some help in the backcourt.

Veteran guard Marcus Smart is trending toward a return tonight. Smart hasn’t played since March 21 due to an ankle injury, but coach J.J. Redick is “hopeful” to have him back versus the Phoenix Suns.

Smart gives L.A. much-needed backcourt depth and allows James to play his natural position off the ball, making him more of a shooter than a facilitator. Before Luka got hurt, James was averaging around seven assists during the Lakers’ red-hot run through March.

There are a few other factors that could temper his passing prowess versus Phoenix. 

James did hurt his hand attempting a block last night, yet stayed in the game. He’s now taking the court for the second of back-to-back outings after logging 32 hard minutes Thursday.

And then there’s always Dillon Brooks. 

The Suns’ pest will only have eyes for James tonight. Brooks is a premier defender, and while LeBron has had mixed scoring results against him, he’s posted three, four, and six assists in their three head-to-head meeting this season.

Player projections are also cooling on James’ playmaking versus the Suns. His assist forecasts top out at 8.1, with most sitting shy of eight dimes against an inflated assist O/U.

Suns vs Lakers same-game parlay

Los Angeles is pushing for the No. 4 seed and can’t afford a loss. Phoenix has nothing at stake, parked at No. 7, and is playing without its starting backcourt, including Devin Booker.

James sees his 3-point activity spike whenever Austin Reaves is out. He’s attempted 11 triples the past two games, including making three shots from distance in the win over Golden State last night.

Suns vs Lakers SGP

  • Lakers moneyline
  • LeBron James Under 9.5 assists
  • LeBron James Over 1.5 made threes

Our "from downtown" SGP: Hollywood Knight

If Smart returns, LeBron can play an off-ball scoring role and set up his shots. He’s been big on the boards, with eight and nine rebounds the last two games. The Suns run a lot of small ball, so James can body his way on the glass. Projections sit at 7+ rebounds.

Suns vs Lakers SGP

  • Lakers moneyline
  • LeBron James Under 9.5 assists
  • LeBron James Over 1.5 made threes
  • LeBron James Over 6.5 rebounds

Suns vs Lakers odds

  • Spread: Suns -2.5 | Lakers +2.5
  • Moneyline: Suns -120 | Lakers +140
  • Over/Under: Over 218 | Under 218

Suns vs Lakers betting trend to know

The Lakers are 17-10 SU and ATS in the second game of back-to-back games over the past two seasons, including an 8-5 ATS record in those turnarounds this year. Find more NBA betting trends for Suns vs. Lakers.

How to watch Suns vs Lakers

LocationCrypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
DateFriday, April 10, 2026
Tip-off10:30 p.m. ET
TVAZFS, Spectrum SportsNet

Suns vs Lakers latest injuries

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Grading the Mavericks: Cooper Flagg, take a bow

The Mavericks were 1-3 this weekend and remained in 13th place in the West. They lost to Orlando (138-127) and beat the hobbled Lakers (134-128) before heading out West for back-to-back losses to the Clippers (116-103) and Phoenix (112-108). Cooper Flagg led the team in scoring with, and this is not a typo, 33 points per game. Daniel Gafford left the game against the Lakers with a shoulder injury. Naji Marshall, P.J. Washington, and Klay Thompson all missed the game in Phoenix.

Grade: A-

The Mavericks played two incredibly fun games last Friday and Sunday. They earned their first home win since late January after defeating the Lakers, and it felt good. In a season full of losing, the occasional win is a good reminder of better times, and hopefully times to come. They played a pretty uneventful back-to-back against the Clippers and Suns, save for the last five minutes of the game against Phoenix. Cooper Flagg, Max Christie, and Ryan Nembhard were all pulled with 4:37 left, Dallas down seven. The Mavericks lost by just five, and that was only three when the Mavericks had the ball with 44 seconds left. They avoided a hilarious win, but provided entertainment regardless. 

Dallas will finish the season at San Antonio Friday and at home against Chicago on Sunday. Then, our focus turns to the ping pong balls.

Straight A’s: Cooper Flagg

There are few new words left to describe Flagg’s rookie season. He now owns the two highest-scoring games for a teenager in NBA history (51, 49), and trails only Luka Doncic (5) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (4) for most 45-point games in the NBA this season (Flagg has three). He scored 96 points in the two games against Orlando and Los Angeles on 33-of-57 (58 percent) shooting. Not only was he efficient from the floor, but he also had 12 assists and just 3 (!) turnovers. And one of the turnovers was an uncalled foul that got Jason Kidd ejected. So, if you’re counting, that is three turnovers to 69 shots and assists.

Flagg is defying what it means to be not only a rookie, but a teenager. At 19, he is doing things that the league’s best are doing, and controlling the game in a way you normally only do after years of experience. He is the best rookie, regardless of what the voters decide. In fact, he is one of the best rookies ever, and we may finish this year with him in some uncomfortable conversations.

Currently Failing: Khris Middleton

It is hard to overstate how bad Middleton has been. He scored less than four points a game in 16.7 minutes a night over the last week. He shot 21 percent from the floor and turned the ball over nearly double the number of times he made a shot. It will all be over soon, Khris. 

Extra Credit: Frank Vogel

Vogel was the stand-in coach after Kidd was ejected last Friday. Flagg was at 45 points in a game out of reach, and Vogel put him back in the game to score six points in just over a minute to eclipse the 50-point plateau. Very cool, Frank, very cool.

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Miami Heat reportedly to officially waive guard Terry Rozier

This was expected, and now it reportedly will become official on Friday: The Miami Heat are expected to waive guard Terry Rozier, reports Shams Charania of ESPN.

Rozier has been away from Miami all season after being arrested and charged as part of a federal investigation into an illegal gambling scheme. Rozier pled not guilty to the charges and his case is working its way through the court system. He did win an arbitration ruling and is getting paid his full $26.6 million contract for this season.

Miami kept Rozier on the roster through the All-Star break — listing him as "away from the team" — because his expiring contract could have been a valuable trade chip in a larger deal at the trade deadline. While no trade developed, the Heat did not need the roster spot with its team largely healthy after the break, so it was just patient and waited to release him. The Heat sit as the No. 10 seed in the East and are headed to the play-in.

Rozier will be a free agent after this season, although with the court case looming no team is going to touch him.

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Colton Parayko Selected As Blues' 2025-26 King Clancy Trophy Nominee

The NHL unveiled their 2025-26 King Clancy Trophy nominees on Friday, with veteran defenseman Colton Parayko selected for the St. Louis Blues. 

The King Clancy Trophy goes “to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community.”

Each team nominated a player who best fit the criteria.

A committee including NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, former winners of the King Clancy Trophy and past winners of the former NHL Foundation Player Award will consider a nominee’s inspiration, involvement and positive impact on their community. They will then take a vote to determine the winner.

Whoever gets the most votes wins not only the award but also a $25,000 donation to a charity or charities of their choice. The winner can even choose to have his team receive a grant of up to $20,000 from the NHL to help organize an activation supporting his humanitarian cause.

Kelly Chase in 1997-98 is the only Blues player to win this award. 

Jordan Binnington Named Blues' 2026 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy NomineeJordan Binnington Named Blues' 2026 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy NomineeJordan Binnington has been selected as the St. Louis Blues’ 2026 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy nominee.

In a press release, the Blues outline Parayko's work in the St. Louis community.

“Since arriving in St. Louis in 2015, Parayko has built a reputation that extends far beyond his play on the blue line. He remains a familiar face at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House, while also supporting a wide range of charitable efforts both locally and in his home province of Alberta.

In 2021, Parayko expanded his commitment to giving back by launching Project 55, a foundation focused on supporting hospitalized children and their families. The initiative provides both financial assistance and emotional support, and over the past several years has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help families navigating difficult circumstances.

Project 55 also creates memorable experiences designed to lift spirits during challenging times. Throughout the season, Parayko hosts patients and their families at Blues home games at Enterprise Center, offering an all-inclusive experience that includes game tickets, team gear, and a postgame meet-and-greet.”

In addition to the 32-year-old’s off-ice work, he’s posted three goals and 17 points in 73 games this season, claimed a silver medal with Team Canada at the Olympics, and will reach 800 career NHL games if he plays in each of the Blues’ remaining games. 

Image

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NBA says Sacramento was not tanking with odd foul against Warriors. It was just inept.

It smelled of outright tanking — Draymond Green said as much after the game. Wednesday night, the Kings had a slim 101-100 lead with 3:15 remaining in the game when head coach Doug Christie motioned to his team to intentionally foul career 86.4% free-throw shooter Seth Curry off the ball, even though the Warriors were already in the bonus.

The NBA investigated and concluded that the Kings were not tanking, they were just inept. The Kings had three timeouts left and would have lost one at the 3:00 mark (teams can only call two timeouts in the final three minutes), and Christie is a coach well known for taking that timeout to avoid losing it. However, he just forgot or didn't know the Warriors were in the bonus. Here is the league's statement.

"The league's investigation determined that Christie mistakenly believed that the Warriors were not in the penalty and therefore instructed his team to foul in an attempt to stop the clock and utilize one of the team's remaining timeouts. The investigation found that Christie made no intentional effort to give the Warriors a shooting foul, or to cause the Kings to lose the game."

Curry made one of two and tied the game from the free-throw line. On its next possession, the Kings retook the lead, but ultimately lost the game 110-105.

Multiple league sources told NBC Sports that Christie is one of the coaches expected to be let go by their teams after the season.

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Clippers vs Trail Blazers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

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Two Play-In teams go to battle tonight as the Los Angeles Clippers visit the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center.

My Clippers vs. Trail Blazers predictions are eyeing Portland to keep up their winning ways at home.

Read more in my NBA picks for Friday, April 10.

Clippers vs Trail Blazers prediction

Clippers vs Trail Blazers best bet: Blazers moneyline (-115)

The Portland Trail Blazers are in the midst of a two-game losing skid, but they return to the Moda Center tonight for a two-game home stand to finish up the regular season. 

The Blazers have compiled a 22-17 record at home in 2025-26, and they’ve won five of their last six games at the Moda Center.

Also, Portland just ended a four-game losing streak against the Los Angeles Clippers last month, beating them 114-104 on the road. Meanwhile, Los Angeles is coming off an 18-point defeat to the OKC Thunder, and they’re just 19-21 away from the Intuit Dome.

The Blazers will grind out a victory tonight.

Clippers vs Trail Blazers same-game parlay

Deni Avdija has been balling out this season, averaging a career-best 24 ppg. He’s cashed the Over in four straight appearances, and he just dropped 29 points in a loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old is one of Portland’s top options, and he already scored 28 against the Clippers on March 31. He’s also averaging 24.8 ppg at home.

Jrue Holiday has cashed the Over in dimes in three consecutive outings, and he’s averaging 6.2 assists overall. In his last home game, Holiday dished out nine dimes.

Scoot Henderson dropped 15 points versus Los Angeles in March, and he’s in his bag right now, cashing the Over in three of his last five appearances.

The guard has played 36 minutes or more across the last two games, and he had 20 points on Wednesday. Heavier minutes mean a better chance for more offensive output.

Clippers vs Trail Blazers SGP

  • Deni Avdija Over 25.5 points
  • Jrue Holiday Over 5.5 assists
  • Scoot Henderson Over 15.5 points

Our "from downtown" SGP: All eyes on Avdija

Avdija is also averaging 6.7 assists, serving as one of Portland’s best facilitators. He had eight dimes against the Clippers last month, and he’s cashed the Over in three of his previous four.

Clippers vs Trail Blazers SGP

  • Deni Avdija Over 25.5 points
  • Jrue Holiday Over 5.5 assists
  • Scoot Henderson Over 15.5 points
  • Deni Avdija Over 6.5 assists

Clippers vs Trail Blazers odds

  • Spread: Los Angles +1 (-110) | Portland -1 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Los Angeles -105 | Portland -115
  • Over/Under: Over 226.5 (-110) | Under 226.5 (-110)

Clippers vs Trail Blazers betting trend to know

The Portland Trail Blazers have hit the 3Q Moneyline in 27 of their last 45 games (+10.35 Units / 16% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Clippers vs. Trail Blazers.

How to watch Clippers vs Trail Blazers

LocationModa Center, Portland, OR
DateFriday, April 10, 2026
Tip-off10:00 p.m. ET
TVFDSN SoCal, BlazerVision

Clippers vs Trail Blazers latest injuries

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Game Preview: Knicks vs Raptors, April 10, 2026

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 3: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors passes the ball during the game against the New York Knicks on March 3, 2026 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Mark Blinch/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

In the second game of a back-to-back, the Knicks (52*-28) host the Raptors (44-35) tonight at Madison Square Garden. New York ranks third in the Eastern Conference, while riding a four-game win streak and having beaten the Celtics in a thriller last night, 112-106. The Raptors are scrappy but inconsistent, in a three-horse race with the Hawks and the Magic for the fifth, sixth, and seventh seeds.

The Knicks lead the season series 4-0. The teams last met on March 3 in Toronto, where New York cruised to a 111-95 victory. Jalen Brunson led the way with 26 points, while Brandon Ingram scored 31 points for the Canucks.

The Raptors have relied on a mix of veterans and young pieces, with Brandon Ingram leading them in scoring with 21.1 PPG. When healthy, Jakob Poeltl anchors the frontcourt (he missed half of the season with injury), while OAKAAKUYOAK Immanuel Quickley commands the backcourt when healthy (IQ has played 68 games this season). Toronto ranks around the middle of the pack offensively (scoring in the 114-point range) but they rate fifth for defense. Scottie Barnes, playing his fifth season, has been an anchor for them defensively and chips in about 18 points per game.

Injury notes: Tyler Kolek remains a question mark for the Knicks with an oblique issue. The Raptors have been cursed with various ailments throughout the year. Chucky Hepburn (knee) and Trayce Jackson-Davis (illness) are game-time decisions for them.

Prediction

The Knicks are solid favorites, with ESPN giving them a 65% chance for victory. Right on. Toronto has shown fight at times, but they’ll face a locked-in Knicks squad at MSG—one that has recently taken care of business against stiffer competition like Boston and Atlanta. Should be another tough night for the visitors, despite potential fatigue for the home team on a SEGABABA. The Raptors will be motivated to win, sure, but the Knickerbockers look playoff-ready and should handle this one without too much drama. Knicks by eight.

Game Details

Who: New York Knicks (52*-28) vs Toronto Raptors (44-35)
Date: Friday, April 10, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Place: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
TV: MSG
Follow: @ptknicksblog and bsky

* Should be one more, but NBA Cup wins are biodegradable.

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The Mystics do not core anyone, which is no surprise

WASHINGTON, D.C. - AUGUST 13: Jacy Sheldon #4 of the Washington Mystics shoots the ball during the game against the Golden State Valkyries on August 13, 2025 at CareFirst Arena in Washington, D.C. 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 2025 NBAE (Photo by Kenny Giarla/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Currently, WNBA teams, including the Washington Mystics are negotiating with free agents who may be interested in coming to their team. One of the key things that remains in teams’ hands is whether to give the core player designation on one player. According to Alexa Philippou of ESPN, most teams have, but the Mystics appear not to have done that.

This is not particularly surprising. According to Sportrac, the 2025 Mystics roster at the end of the season had two players with cap hits above $100,000: Alysha Clark and Stefanie Dolson. However, both Clark and Dolson are longtime veterans and wouldn’t be able to be cored. The remaining players are primarily on rookie scale contracts.

What this means is that the Mystics are in prime position to spend on free agents though they can’t give a supermax salary. They have over $5 million in cap space out of a $7 million salary cap. Remember, the Mystics, EVEN IF THEY CHOOSE TO …. deconstruct like the Wizards … HAVE TO PAY SOME PLAYER a big salary, likely at around $1 million.

Also, out of their cap space, some of these players will be used on their three first round picks (No. 4, No. 9, No. 11) and there’s a good chance that their second round picks (No. 19, No. 30) could ALL make the roster. If that happens, there will still be cap room to sign a free agent or two at a very large salary.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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Pistons vs Hornets preview: First matchup since February brawl

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MARCH 28: Ronald Holland II #5 of the Detroit Pistons celebrates his three-point basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter at Target Center on March 28, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Pistons defeated the Timberwolves 109-87. 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 David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Another dust-up is waiting to be settled as the Detroit Pistons face the Charlotte Hornets for the first time since the February game that ended in chaos and suspensions.

The Pistons are locked at the one seed, and the Hornets appear to be headed for the play-in tournament. Everything is on the table for them, and tonight is a must-win.

Do the Pistons rest vs the hungry Hornets? Or does Cade Cunningham continue to get his legs under him? It will be interesting to see how JB Bickerstaff plays his hand against another potential playoff opponent.

Game Vitals

Where: Spectrum Center, Charlotte, North Carolina

When: 7:00 PM

Watch: FanDuel Sports Network Detroit

Odds: Pistons (+5)

Analysis

The Hornets have been the best offense in the league since Dec. 2. They hit the offensive glass, get up 3s, and have multiple 20-point threats. With their high 3-point rate comes variance.

The Hornets are an interesting watch when they do not have it going from 3 because they do not have many consistent 2-point scorers. None of their go-to options gets to the rim a lot compared to other offensive engines.

The Pistons are the complete opposite. They live in the paint. Cade Cunningham played 26 minutes after missing time. It was good to see him attacking the basket. Cade was 5/7 from the restricted area (PivotFade). He got back in the lineup and immediately began dropping his shoulders and making contact with defenders to get buckets. Getting more minutes tonight before the playoffs could keep Cade sharp after his layoff.

Jalen Duren is an automatic 2-point player. In a playoff series, the Hornets would try to get JD on the perimeter and hunt 3s. He has to be ready for that, no doubt. But how would the Hornets solve the Duren puzzle on the other end?

Moussa Diabaté is Charlotte’s offensive rebound machine, and he kicks it out to his shooters like his life depends on it. He is a ball of energy, but is not sturdy enough to handle Duren in the paint. Not many are. Grant Williams is a good undersized defender, but he would struggle with Duren’s mass. Ryan Kalkbrenner would too, despite his length.

While Charlotte has been the top 3-point shooting team all year (2nd in attempts, third in %), Detroit is on a heater. They are shooting 39 percent (sixth in league) in the last 15 games. Duncan Robinson, Daniss Jenkins, Javonte Green, Tobias Harris, and Marcus Sasser are all shooting over 40 percent during this hot stretch from triple.

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Ron Holland is on the 3-point action, shooting 44 percent on three attempts over the last seven games. Holland is going to let it fly every time. He knew these shots were down as soon as they left his hands. That is progress.

On the other side, the Hornets have shooters galore. Kon Knueppel (268) and LaMelo Ball (261) are first and second in total 3s. Brandon Miller is 38.5 percent on over eight attempts. Grant Williams, Coby White. There are some guys over there who can shoot it. While their trigger-happy offense results in tons of 3s, turnovers come with Charlotte’s package. This team turns the ball over a ton (15.4 TO #24), and Detroit feasts off those.

Detroit is the best turnover creation team in basketball. They have the best wing defender in Ausar Thompson. All of those Hornets snipers will deal with him at some point.

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It is not fair what Ausar can do to offensive players. The save on this possession was just as impressive as Ausar’s perfectly-timed block. The balance and awareness needed to pull off this sequence is wild.

On the next possession down, it seemed like Ryan Rollins, who is having a Most Improved Player-type year, was fine immediately giving up the ball because of the harassment from Ausar. The turnover-prone weapons in Charlotte cannot be loose with the ball in this matchup.

Daniss Jenkins, who trains with Rollins, will be a critical piece tonight and on this postseason run. He is the backup ball handler who needs to stay prepared. He is good enough to be more than a neutral, but even that would be enough. Detroit needs Jenkins to remain competent with Cade back in the lineup.

We will see how Bicketstaff handles the rotation tonight. The chase for 60 wins and the need to stay sharp are reasons to get starters on the floor. The Hornets will be desperate, and the Pistons can spoil their standings push tonight.

Lineups

Detroit Pistons (58-22):

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Haris, Jalen Duren

Charlotte Hornets (43-37):

LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, Moussa Diabaté

Question of the day

Are you team rest or team play?

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John Carlson always wanted a hat trick. The Ducks defenseman finally got one in his 17th NHL season

John Carlson

Apr 9, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman John Carlson (74) reacts after being selected as the first star of the night against the San Jose Sharks Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Kirby Lee/Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

ANAHEIM, Calif. — John Carlson played 1,156 regular-season games and 137 more Stanley Cup playoff contests in his 17 NHL seasons before he finally got his first hat trick.

The steady defenseman would never list a three-goal game as a true aspiration, but Carlson was still thrilled to do it — particularly because it came in a vital victory for his new team’s playoff aspirations.

The 36-year-old Carlson said he literally couldn’t remember his last pre-NHL hat trick after he fired three goals past the San Jose Sharks during the Ducks’ 6-1 win, which snapped a six-game losing streak and greatly improved Anaheim’s chances of ending its seven-year postseason drought.

“I’ve seen a lot (of hat tricks) in my day, and always was a little bit jealous,” Carlson said with a grin.

Indeed, Carlson witnessed plenty of multigoal barrages during his long tenure with the Washington Capitals. That’ll happen when you play nearly 17 seasons alongside the greatest goal-scorer in NHL history: Alex Ovechkin has 34 career hat tricks, including 26 since Carlson’s debut with the Caps as a teenager in late 2009.

But Carlson has been a steady contributor on both ends of the ice throughout his NHL career, and he had been a major factor for his new team in Anaheim even before his third goal sealed a big win. His shot sent a shower of hats onto the Honda Center ice with 5:57 to play in celebration of only the fourth hat trick by a defenseman in Ducks history, and the first since 2018.

“It was great,” Carlson said. “I’ve obviously always wanted one. I think it was a good game to do it in, a home game. The crowd was great tonight from puck drop, and I think we just kept feeding on that and played a really good game.”

Carlson became the third defenseman in NHL history to record a hat trick after his 36th birthday, joining Mathieu Schneider and Nicklas Lidstrom, who was 40 years old when he accomplished the feat on Dec. 15, 2010. Only Lidstrom (1,442) played more games among NHL defensemen than Carlson before getting that inaugural trick.

Carlson has 12 points in 13 games since joining the Ducks, who acquired him at the trade deadline to shore up the back end on one of the league’s worst defensive teams. Carlson has overcome the first jersey change of his NHL career and the midseason disruption of his family’s life to fit in well on the West Coast, providing much-needed veteran poise while improving the Ducks’ mediocre power play, which produced his two third-period goals.

“He comes in and he’s an amazing player,” said center Leo Carlsson, who opened the scoring with an impressive drive to the net for his 28th goal. “Great person, too. He helps us a lot, so nothing but amazing things to say about him.”

After his hat trick, Carlson has 14 goals this season between Washington and Anaheim, three off his career high from the 2021-22 season.

Carlson got his first goal against the Sharks in the first period on a 97.47 mph slap shot — the hardest shot that resulted in a goal for the Ducks all season long.

He scored two more power-play goals 3 1/2 minutes apart in the third period, both on heavy shots. Anaheim’s power play had been 1 for 15 over the previous four games, dropping to 25th in the league.

“I thought he’s got the presence to shoot from the top,” coach Joel Quenneville said. “He’s got good play recognition, and the power play needed that.”

Two days after the Ducks were booed off the ice by their home fans during a 5-0 loss to Nashville, they dominated the rival Sharks — another young, hungry team with playoff aspirations.

Anaheim’s victory left it in third place in the Pacific Division with 89 points, but just one behind Edmonton up in first place, where the Ducks had been for a full month before dropping back in the past week.

With just three games left, Carlson is confident the Ducks can pick up enough points to get him to the Stanley Cup playoffs for the 15th time in a career that included a championship in 2018.

“Building that mentality, reaching back for a picture or a memory of (good) starts, those things are all good to have at this point in the year,” Carlson said.

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Pittsburgh Penguins clinch a playoff spot, ending their 3-year drought

Sidney Crosby

Apr 5, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) looks on against the Florida Panthers during the first period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Alberti-Imagn Images

Mark Alberti/Mark Alberti-Imagn Images

NEWARK, N.J. — For the first time in four years, it soon will be a great day for playoff hockey in Pittsburgh.

The Penguins clinched a playoff spot by beating New Jersey, ending their postseason drought that lasted three seasons. They had made 16 postseason appearances in a row before that, last missing in Sidney Crosby’s rookie year in 2005-06, with that stretch including three Stanley Cup titles.

“That’s why you play — that’s the best time of year,” Crosby said. “I know how hard it is. I think I understand that. We had some tough ones where it came down to the last day and didn’t get in, and you don’t ever know. But I thought right from camp, we’ve had those intentions and had that belief.”

It was an up-and-down season that included an eight-game skid in December and a pair of six-game winning streaks later in the winter. Far from assured a place in the field in late March when the Eastern Conference race was a crowded mess, they’ve won five of six games since March 30 to get in.

“A couple weeks ago (we realized) it’s really in our hands (because we) play a lot of the teams in it,” defenseman Connor Clifton said. “We figured it was going to work itself out, and first and foremost it’s about us and getting points and we’ve done that, so it’s been good.”

It also has been a surprise. Pittsburgh was a 6-1 long shot to qualify before the puck dropped on opening night, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. This looked like one last kick at it together for an aging core of Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang, who at 20 seasons together are the longest-tenured trio of teammates in North American professional sports.

Instead, new coach Dan Muse has made general manager Kyle Dubas look brilliant for hiring him from relative anonymity: five years as an assistant under Peter Laviolette with Nashville and the New York Rangers. Succeeding two-time Cup-winner Mike Sullivan was not an easy task, but Muse aced the test in his first chance to run an NHL bench.

“He’s been great: Calm there behind the bench, and he’s just a really personable guy, easy to talk to away from the rink,” forward Justin Brazeau said. “Any time you create that atmosphere in here, it’s not too tense or anything like that. I think guys are just willing to go out there and play free.”

Center Ben Kindel, picked 11th in the draft last year, made the team at 18. Defenseman Erik Karlsson thrived at 35. Crosby was a point-a-game player for a 21st consecutive season, even if it was interrupted by the injury that knocked him out of the Olympics.

“It takes everybody,” Crosby said. “Everybody has had a part in this. Obviously it’s a team game, but especially with this group: With the injuries and all the different guys in and out, everybody’s contributed to us getting there.”

Muse, like Crosby, saw evidence in training camp that this was a playoff-caliber team.

“I just saw the competitive nature of the group,” Muse said. “There’s ebbs and flows in every season, but I think this group has just continued to grow. Enjoy it for a little bit, a minute, and then it’s just continuing that preparation. It’s a big step for the group. I’m really proud of these guys, happy for these guys, the staff, everybody involved. The players have done a great job with it throughout the year. We talked about earning things at the beginning of the year. This group earned it.”

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NBA Playoff scenarios for Friday, April 10: Multiple playoff spots, seedings on like with 30 teams playing

All 30 NBA teams are in action tonight, then every team is off on Saturday, then Sunday is one final shakeout day. With that said, there are a lot of scenarios that will play out today. Here is what you need to know.

Playoff Scenarios

Eastern Conference

• Boston can secure the No. 2 seed (and the Atlantic Division crown, if we care about that) with New Orleans or a New York loss to Toronto.
• New York secures no lower than the No. 3 seed with a win over Toronto or a Cleveland loss to Atlanta.
• Toronto can clinch a top-six playoff spot with a win over the Knicks, and if Atlanta and Orlando also lose than the Raptors lock into the No. 5 seed.
• Atlanta clinches a top-six playoff spot with a win over Cleveland (or losses by Orlando and Charlotte).
• Charlotte becomes locked into the play-in with a loss to Detroit.
• Orlando becomes locked into the play-in with a loss to Chicago or wins by Atlanta and Toronto.
• Philadelphia is locked into the play-in with a loss to Indiana or a Toronto win over New York

Western Conference

• Denver can lock in as the No. 3 seed with a win over Oklahoma City and a Lakers loss to the Suns.
• The Los Angeles Lakers can lock in no lower than the No. 4 seed with a win against Phoenix and a Houston loss to Minnesota.
• The LA Clippers can secure the No. 8 seed with a win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

Games to Watch

Cleveland Cavaliers at Atlanta Hawks, 7 p.m. ET, Prime Video

Both teams want this one and both teams come in playing well. Cleveland still has a slim chance at passing the Knicks for the No. 3 seed (the Raptors would have to win out and the Knicks lose out). This game matters more to the Hawks, who can still finish anywhere from fifth to eighth in the East, but with a win over Cleveland secures itself a top-six spot and avoiding the play-in at least.

Toronto Raptors at New York Knicks, 7:30 p.m. ET, League Pass

New York can clinch the No. 3 seed with a win, making their Sunday game against Charlotte moot for them. Toronto could still finish anywhere from fifth to eighth in the East, but a win against New York secures a top-six seed and avoids the play-in.

Oklahoma City at Denver Nuggets, 9 p.m. ET, League Pass

Oklahoma City has locked up the No. 1 seed, but this could be an interesting game for it strategically. While the Thunder will say they don't care about playoff matchups, they would be much better off with Denver as the No. 3 seed (which could set up a brutal seven-game series between the Nuggets and Spurs in the second round). The Lakers and Rockets are just one game back of the Nuggets. If OKC beats Denver, it opens the door to the Nuggets falling back to fourth, and with that, potentially meeting the Thunder in the second round. The Thunder are never going to try to lose a game and have a deep roster, but if they lost this game, would it be the worst thing?

LA Clippers at Portland Trail Blazers, 10 p.m. ET, League Pass

This game essentially decides the 8 and 9 seeds in the West (Portland is one game back of the Clippers but would have the tiebreaker with the win). The Clippers lock up the No. 8 seed with a win. Portland would control its own destiny to be the No. 8 with a win — it would have the tiebreaker over LA and could only fall to ninth if it lost to Sacramento on Sunday while the Clippers beat the Warriors. Eighth is a much easier path to the playoffs (win just one of two games, rather than having to win two in a row).

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‘A great jump': Why James Hagens is NHL-ready after breakout season at BC

‘A great jump': Why James Hagens is NHL-ready after breakout season at BC originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The future is now for the Boston Bruins.

Top prospect James Hagens, who recently wrapped up a very strong sophomore season for Boston College and just played six games for the AHL’s Providence Bruins, signed his entry-level contract with the B’s on Wednesday.

Hagens skated at an optional practice with the Bruins for the first time Thursday at Warrior Ice Arena. His first full practice was Friday. The Bruins’ next two games are this weekend: home against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday and at the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday. B’s head coach Marco Sturm confirmed Friday that Hagens won’t play against the Lightning.

It’s hard to know exactly how ready a 19-year-old player is for the NHL. It’s a clear step up in speed, skill and physicality compared to the NCAA and AHL levels. But Hagens’ improvement as a sophomore for BC this past season — especially in the defensive aspect of his game — should help the transition to the Bruins.

“He did take a great jump in so many areas,” Boston College men’s hockey head coach Greg Brown told NBC Sports Boston this week.

“His offensive game was always there, and he still continues to develop it. He’s only 19 years old now, but I think he took huge steps in the rest of his game, becoming a 200-foot player, defensive awareness, defensive detail — all those things that you’re going to need to play in the NHL, James really improved on this year, so it’s great to see.”

James HagensRichard T Gagnon/Getty Images
James Hagens won the Hockey East scoring title with BC this past season.

Inside Hagens’ offensive breakout

One of the most notable improvements Hagens made in Year 2 with the Eagles was becoming a more prolific goal scorer. He’s always been an elite playmaker, but his goal-scoring went to another level this past season. He scored 11 goals in 37 games for BC as a freshman, and then he jumped to 23 goals in 34 games in 2025-26.

What led to Hagens finding the back of the net more frequently?

“A couple of things. One, he worked very hard on his shot,” Brown said. “It was almost every day he was out there after practice or before practice taking shots to improve his one-time or to improve his release on his snapshot. So, he had physical gains that way.”

“But also, I think his awareness of where to find openings — he scored a bunch of one-timer goals, whether it was low by the goal line or whether it was up at the top of the circle. He really did a great job of finding the space. As well as having a good shot, it’s critical to be able to find the opportunities to get shots, and he made great strides in that area, too.”

How Hagens can boost Boston’s power play

One area where Hagens could really make a positive impact early in his Bruins career is on the power play.

He thrived in those situations for BC, where his vision, playmaking and ability to carry the puck into the offensive zone made a huge difference.

“James was tremendous for us on the power play this year,” Brown said. “He kind of ran it from the flank, and his skill set obviously lends to offensive hockey. But his ability to play the game with his head up the whole time allows him to see opportunities and where openings come very quickly.

“He doesn’t have to look down and check the puck and make sure it’s on his stick. He’s always scanning, always ready to look for the next opportunity. So, I think that will serve him very well as he makes the transition to pro hockey.”

Will Hagens play center or wing?

Bruins head coach Marco Sturm did not commit to putting Hagens into a certain spot in the lineup when asked at a press conference Thursday, but it sounds like most, if not all, of his early reps will be on the wing.

“It’s probably a wing for sure, because right now we feel very comfortable with our centermen,” Sturm told reporters. “It’s not fair to put him as a center because he didn’t play it all year long. I think he’s in a safe spot here as a wing. Moving forward, we’ll see. I would love to see him as a center because he has that speed and ability to move pucks, but definitely not this year.”

Hagens is a natural center, but he played on the wing plenty for BC this past season. This kind of versatility should be a benefit to the Bruins.

“It was huge for us, (for Hagens) to be flexible and to be effective in all three forward positions, but I also think that it’s critical if you’re going to become an NHL forward. As you’re joining a team, you don’t know what their strengths are, where they have guys slotted. You want to be able to be put in anywhere,” Brown said.

“If they ask you to play left wing, right wing, or center, you wanna be able to say, ‘Yes, I can do that.’ I think he gained a lot of valuable experience, playing all positions, and he did a great job for us wherever we put him.”

Can Hagens live up to the hype?

Expectations for Hagens are high. That’s part of the deal playing in a sports-crazed city like Boston, especially when you’re a top-10 draft pick. But dealing with pressure and expectations are nothing new for Hagens. That experience will help him as his pro career gets underway.

“James does a great job of blocking out the noise and focusing on playing,” Brown said. “I thought, as much attention as he got from being a high pick and playing in Boston, I think even his freshman year was harder before the draft, when there was so much attention put on him, and he had to do interviews all the time, whether it was with teams or with the media.

“So the fact that he was able to handle that, handle those responsibilities and also still play at a high level, really showed his maturity and his ability to separate the two things. He’s going to have a lot of attention, but so far, the way he’s handled it, it gave him great experience in that department, and I think he really doesn’t let it affect him.

“When he steps on that ice, he’s all-in on how he’s gonna play.”