The Buffalo Sabres have one game remaining before the nearly three-week Olympic break, and are well-positioned to end their NHL-record 14-year playoff drought. Even after a 4-3 overtime loss in Tampa on Tuesday, the Sabres hold a seven-point lead on three teams sitting outside of an Eastern Conference playoff spot.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman on Tuesday’s 32 Thoughts podcast, Sabres GM Jarmo Kekalainen is hesitant to mess with the club’s chemistry and weaken their roster going into the final third of the regular season, which would indicate that they may not move veteran winger Alex Tuch before the March 6th trade deadline.,
Tuch, who scored a hat trick in a victory over the LA Kings last week, is second on the club with 48 points (22 goals, 26 assists). The 29-year-old is a pending unrestricted free agent this summer, and there has been no indication of any progress in negotiations on a contract extension in spite of the lines of communication between Kekalainen and agents Brian and Scott Bartlett being open.
Tuch has reportedly been looking for more than $10 million on an eight-year deal, similar to the contract signed by LA forward Adrian Kempe earlier this season, and reportedly, there still remains a significant gap in the price that Tuch’s representatives are looking for and what Buffalo is willing to pay him.
Friedman indicated that the possibility of keeping Tuch as an own rental past the deadline is increasing, but the odds of getting him signed before July 1 would seem remote based on players always wanting to see what options are out there on the open market. The trade of winger Artemi Panarin to the Kings on Wednesday and his subsequent signing a two-year, $22 million extension in Los Angeles may have decreased the odds of Tuch re-signing with Buffalo, since he could be the top free agent target this summer since the likes of Kempe, Kyle Connor, Connor McDavid, and Jack Eichel are re-signed and the salary cap increasing.
Several teams are reportedly interested in acquiring Ball, including the Wizards and the Hornets.
Ball has averaged 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 20.9 minutes across 35 games this season.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Lonzo Ball (2) stands on the court in the first quarter against the Orland Magic at Rocket Arena. David Richard-Imagn Images
The move is viewed as a salary dump by the Cavaliers as they look to create some roster flexibility by unloading his contract.
Cleveland is roughly $14 million above the second apron, and getting below that threshold would help save payroll and keep the team from having its 2033 first-round pick frozen.
The recent additions of Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis ended up making Ball — and his $10 million salary — replaceable.
Lonzo Ball of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic on January 24, 2026 at Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. NBAE via Getty Images
Ball entered the NBA with high hopes when the Lakers drafted him second overall in 2017, but injuries limited him to 99 games over his first two seasons in the league.
Ball was traded to the Pelicans in 2019 and spent two seasons in New Orleans before being traded again to the Bulls in 2021.
He dealt with severe knee issues during his time in Chicago that cost him two seasons, but during the 2024-25 season, Ball was signed to a two-year, $20 million contract.
He was traded to the Cavs in July.
For his career, he’s averaged 10.6 points, 5.6 assists and 5.3 rebounds.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 30: President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman of the Cleveland Cavaliers is interviewed during Cleveland Cavaliers Media Day at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on September 30, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Nick Cammett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Cavs’ president of basketball operations, Koby Altman, released a statement about the shocking trade. First, he spoke about trading for Harden:
“James Harden has cemented himself as an all-time great in this league and he adds another elite playmaker and All-NBA talent to our roster. We’re excited about the impact he will have on our group and our championship aspirations. His presence will elevate our offense, create opportunities for teammates, and bring valuable playoff experience at both ends of the floor.”
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It’s easy to see the upside with Harden, but there’s an incredible risk in trading away a home-grown former All-Star who is a decade younger in the process.
Altman said this about moving Garland:
“At the same time, we deeply appreciate what Darius Garland has meant to this franchise and the city of Cleveland. Over the past seven seasons, Darius grew into an All-Star, a leader, and the heartbeat of our team. This decision was not made lightly, as Darius consistently represented the Cavaliers and our community with grace and joy that resonated with his teammates and our fans, both at Rocket Arena and across the NBA. We are incredibly grateful for everything he has given this organization. The difficulty of this trade reflects the utmost respect we have for him, and we wish him nothing but success as he begins the next chapter of his career with the Los Angeles Clippers.”
This trade was made with the hopes of the Cavs being better prepared for the playoffs in a wide-open Eastern Conference. We’ll see if that gamble pays off in the spring.
KIEL, Germany (AP) — Defending champion Stuttgart defeated second-division club Holstein Kiel 3-0 Wednesday to reach the German Cup semifinals.
Deniz Undav broke the deadlock for the visitors in the 56th minute, then Chris Fuhrich added to the lead in the 89th and Atakan Karazor closed the scoring three minutes into stoppage time.
Stuttgart won its fourth German Cup title last season, beating third-division team Arminia Bielefeld in the final.
Holstein Kiel was playing in the quarterfinals for the first time since reaching the last four in 2020-21.
On Tuesday, Bayer Leverkusen advanced to the last four for the third straight season by beating St. Pauli 3-0.
The other two quarterfinals will be played next week — second-tier Hertha Berlin faces Freiburg and Bayern Munich takes on Leipzig.
BINGHAMTON, NY - SEPTEMBER 18: AJ. Ewing #7 of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies looks on during the game between the Somerset Patriots and the Binghamton Rumble Ponies at Mirabito Stadium on Thursday, September 18, 2025 in Binghamton, New York. (Photo by Rob Tringali/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images)
Baseball Prospectus has published its annual list of the top 101 prospects in baseball ahead of the 2026 season, and seven Mets prospects are included on the list: Nolan McLean (4), Carson Benge (10), Jonah Tong (23), A.J. Ewing (38), Jacob Reimer (70), Ryan Clifford (86), and Will Watson (96). And both Jett Williams (41) and Brandon Sproat (76), who the Mets dealt to the Brewers for Freddy Peralta and Tobias Myers, made the list, as well.
The inclusion of that many Mets prospects is a testament to the excellent state of the organization’s farm system, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the sport.
All seven of the Mets prospects who made the list were included in our top 25 here at Amazin’ Avenue, as our post-Brewers rankings would have them in the same order as they appear on the Baseball Prospectus list.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 24: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers goes up for a shot against the Orlando Magic during the fourth quarter at Kia Center on January 24, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images) | Getty Images
What’s this feeling in my head? Whiplash? Dizziness? The Utah Jazz are not finished making last-second moves before the Feb 5 trade deadline after an eight-player swaperoo that sent Clayton, Hendricks, Anderson, Niang, and three firsts to Memphis in exchange for Jaren Jackson Jr, John Konchar, Vince Williams, and Jock Landale.
Of that return, I really hope you didn’t get too attached to Landale.
In what was ultimately revealed to be a three-team trade, the Utah Jazz have dealt newly-acquired 30-year-old center Jock Landale to Atlanta in exchange for cash considerations, while the Cleveland Cavaliers chipped in, sending Lonzo Ball and two second-round picks Utah-bound — the final second-rounders that Cleveland had available to trade, according to Jake Fischer.
It's the Cavaliers' 2028 and 2032 second-round picks heading to Utah to move off of Lonzo Ball, per source. Only two seconds Cleveland had left to trade, at the moment.
Much like with Landale, I really hope you didn’t jump at the opportunity to buy a Lonzo Ball jersey, as the Jazz are expected to waive the former second-overall pick before he ever suits up in Utah.
The Utah Jazz front office is waist-deep into the trade deadline hokey-pokey. You put your Landale in, you take your Landale out, you put your Lonzo in, and you trade them all about.
Cleveland is gentrifying its roster with James Harden (who was recently swapped for Darius Garland), Keon Ellis, and Dennis Shröder. Atlanta walks away with lighter pockets, but a deeper frontcourt with Landale, who was enjoying a career-best season in Memphis prior to being moved.
Historically, this move is reminiscent of the last time Utah waived a point guard from Cleveland. Do you remember the time that former MVP Derrick Rose was included in the trade that sent Jae Crowder to Utah? Rose was waived immediately, much to the delight of this hospital patient, who was quick to remind everyone that the former All-NBA guard was well past his prime.
Utah comes away with two second-round picks, proving that their recent trade for Jaren Jackson Jr does not mean the Jazz plan to win now and win at all costs — just as patiently as the rebuild began, Utah has no intention of prematurely chopping the timeline. Draft capital collection and deliberate personnel decisions will define the coming years of Utah Jazz basketball; there is nothing short-sighted about Utah’s franchise reconstruction.
Calvin Barrett is a writer, editor, and prolific Mario Kart racer located in Tokyo, Japan. He has covered the NBA and College Sports since 2024.
The Los Angeles Kings pulled off a huge trade ahead of the Olympic break, acquiring Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers on Wednesday.
It's got the hockey world, but most specifically Kings and Rangers fans, reacting all over social media, and for good reason.
Several fans couldn't believe the limited return New York received from Los Angeles. Although it's worth mentioning that Panarin had a full no-move clause on his contract, giving the player all the leverage in the deal.
"Artemi Panarin for a third-round pick and a prospect?" @Usmanrdabai posted on X. "Did the Rangers just get robbed in broad daylight, or are they desperate to shed that contract? Either way, L.A. wins."
"Are you kidding me that’s all we got for Panarin? Drury botched this one up, Panarin couldn’t even garner a first round pick? Kings won this trade," @z35_big wrote on X.
"Wow, a conditional third? The Rangers practically gave Panarin away for free!" @sarpnch1979 said.
"The Kings got PANARIN. For a conditional third and a prospect. That's it. No first-rounders. No top prospects. This is pure robbery. LA is ALL IN on a Cup run, and this move proves it. Rangers will regret this one," @L4vlcx posted.
"What a robbery, NY really out here handing stars away!" @Smoggy01 claimed on X.
"LA basically got Panarin for nothing," @BoltsPodcast wrote.
Many praised Kings GM Ken Holland, who was able to shed minimal assets, received Panarin with 50 percent of his contract retained, and signed the superstar to a two-year contract extension at $11 million per season.
Quinton Byfield and Artemi Panarin (Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)
"instant upgrade and serious playoff intent from LA," @uglyfreak077 wrote.
"I am on a Bread and Juice diet," @NicoleMae11 reacted on X.
However, some other fans are still skeptical about this Kings' team and if they have what it takes to go past the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
"Wow. The LA Kings just went from a first round exit to Edmonton to a first round exit to Edmonton," @Howard4Hart put up on X.
"With Panarin in the Kings lineup they have moved from “not winning the West in any circumstance this year” to “not winning the West in any circumstance this year," @travisyost posted.
"Kings still not gonna go anywhere," @therealahype1 protested.
"Hopefully this allows them to beat the Oilers in the first round...that would be most satisfying," @Relay36697862 said on X.
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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Two-time AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal went to a record-setting salary arbitration hearing Wednesday, with the left-hander asking for $32 million and the Detroit Tigers offering $19 million.
A decision by Jeanne Charles, Walt De Treux and Allen Ponak is expected Thursday.
Toronto first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has the highest salary in an arbitration case decided by a panel, winning at $19.9 million in 2024 in a case decided by Charles, De Treux and Scott Buchheit.
A two-time All-Star, the 29-year-old Skubal will be eligible for free agency after the World Series. He is 54-37 with a 3.08 ERA in six major league seasons.
Skubal was 13-6 with an AL-best 2.21 ERA in 31 starts last year, striking out 241 and walking 33 in 195 1/3 innings while earning $10.5 million. His 0.891 WHIP topped qualified pitchers.
Players have won both decisions thus far. Right-hander Kyle Bradish was awarded $3.55 million instead of the Baltimore Orioles’ offer of $2,875,000, and catcher Yainer Diaz received $4.5 million instead of the Houston Astros’ $3 million proposal.
Three cases have been argued with decisions withheld so as not to impact other players in arbitration: Toronto left-hander Eric Lauer ($5.75 million vs. $4.4 million), Atlanta left-hander Dylan Lee ($2.2 million vs. $2 million) and Tampa Bay right-hander Edwin Uceta ($1,525,000 vs. $1.2 million).
Seven players remain scheduled for hearings, which run through Feb. 13: Baltimore left-hander Keegan Akin ($3,375,000 vs. $2,975,000), Cincinnati right-hander Graham Ashcraft ($1.75 million vs. $1.25 million), Kansas City left-hander Kris Bubic ($6.15 million vs. $5.15 million), Milwaukee catcher Willson Contreras ($9.9 million vs. $8.55 million), Los Angeles Angels left-hander Reid Detmers ($2,925,000 vs. $2,625,000), Miami right-hander Calvin Faucher ($2.05 million vs. $1.8 million) and Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson ($6.8 million vs $6.55 million).
Two Eastern Conference franchises trying to emerge from NBA play-in status are exchanging valuable backcourt pieces in a multi-team move involving the defending NBA champions ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline.
White, 25, is slated to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason and joins the Hornets as they've surged to seven-straight wins behind a nucleus featuring rookie Kon Knueppel, LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. White is averaging 18.6 points, 4.7 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game in his seventh season since the Bulls drafted him with the No. 7 overall pick in 2019.
Sexton was Charlotte's leading scorer off the bench this season and will also be an unrestricted free agent after this season. He is averaging 14.2 points and 3.7 assists per game. Conley and Plumlee could be candidates to be waived by their new teams with both on expiring contracts. Dieng will also be a restricted free agent after this season.
The 2026 NHL trade deadline is set for March 6, which is still over a month away. But because of the Olympic break, the Ottawa Senators have just five games remaining before they have to show their hand. So it remains to be seen whether GM Steve Staios fancies himself as a buyer, a seller, or a team best served by standing pat.
As the deadline approaches, it’s a perfect time to look back at some of the most memorable Senators' deadline deals from the past ten years, trades that fueled playoff runs, accelerated or hindered rebuilds, and helped shape the current roster.
February 9, 2016
Feb 10, 2018; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators defenseman Dion Phaneuf (2) during their game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Air Canada Centre. The Maple Leafs beat the Senators 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-Imagn Images
On February 9, 2016, Ottawa acquired Dion Phaneuf, Matt Frattin, Casey Bailey, Ryan Rupert, and Cody Donaghey from the Toronto Maple Leafs. In return, the Senators sent Jared Cowen, Colin Greening, Milan Michalek, Tobias Lindberg, and a 2017 second-round pick to Toronto.
The trade was almost three weeks before the actual deadline, and it was notable not only for its size, but for the rarity of a big deal between provincial rivals. Phaneuf played 154 games with the Senators, and while he had lost a step, he was still a key part of the Sens' amazing run to the 2017 Eastern Conference Final.
February 27, 2017
Mar 2, 2014; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks left wing Alex Burrows (14) during the second period in the Heritage Classic hockey game against the Ottawa Senators at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images
On February 27, 2017, the Senators acquired Alex Burrows from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for prospect Jonathan Dahlen. GM Pierre Dorion said that one Senator player was so excited about the deal, he came up and hugged him. Burrows played 91 career games for the Sens, then retired.
A few days later, the Sens parted ways with Curtis Lazar, their former highly-touted first-round draft pick. He was sent to Calgary in a package deal that brought back a second-round pick that would become Alex Formenton.
February 13, 2018
Feb 15, 2018; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators right wing Marian Gaborik (12) skates during a break in the second period against the Buffalo Sabres at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
Ottawa traded Phaneuf and Nate Thompson to the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for Marian Gaborik and Nick Shore. Both teams got a big-name, big-money player in the exchange, but both were at the end of their careers, especially Gaborik, who played all of 16 games for the Senators then retired because of injuries.
Closer to the deadline, Ottawa traded Derick Brassard to the Pittsburgh Penguins as part of a three-team trade involving Vegas. The Senators received a 2018 first-round pick, goaltender Filip Gustavsson, defenseman Ian Cole, and a 2019 third-round pick, while Pittsburgh received Brassard and a 2018 third-round pick. Vegas retained 40 percent of Brassard’s salary.
February 22, 2019
Jan 18, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; Ottawa Senators right wing Mark Stone (61) looks on against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Ottawa Senators defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-1. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
Five months after trading Erik Karlsson, the 2019 trade deadline really began to reshape the franchise in dramatic fashion, which is a nice way of describing a fire sale.
On February 22, Ottawa traded Matt Duchene and Julius Bergman to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Vitaly Abramov, Jonathan Davidsson, a 2019 first-round pick, and a 2020 conditional first-round pick. The Sens would only get that second first-rounder if Duchene re-signed with Columbus. He left and signed with Nashville.
One day later, on February 23, the Senators sent Ryan Dzingel to Columbus, receiving Anthony Duclair along with 2020 and 2021 second-round picks.
On February 25, Ottawa traded Mark Stone to the Vegas Golden Knights for Erik Brännström, Oscar Lindberg, and a 2020 second-round pick. Losing Stone was painful for the fan base, and any talk that this was all Stone’s idea was put to rest when Eugene Melnyk told a CBC reporter downtown that day that Stone’s trade was "part of our rebuild, we've been planning this for some time."
February 24, 2020
Jan 14, 2020; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators center Jean-Gabriel Pageau (44) faces off against Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) in the first period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
On February 24, 2020, the Senators traded Jean-Gabriel Pageau to the New York Islanders. In return, Ottawa received a 2020 conditional first-round pick (Ridly Greig), a 2020 second-round pick, and a 2022 conditional third-round pick.
Pageau, a popular Ottawa native, was enjoying an excellent season at the time, but in the midst of their fire sale, the Senators did maximize his value at the deadline.
March 20, 2022
Apr 8, 2021; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators left wing Nick Paul (13) follows the puck following a faceoff with Edmonton Oilers center Leon Draisaitl (29) during the second period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
On March 20, 2022, Ottawa traded Nick Paul to the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Senators received Mathieu Joseph and a 2024 fourth-round pick in return.
Paul immediately helped the Lightning make the Cup final that year. Joseph played two and a half seasons in Ottawa’s bottom six before being dealt to St. Louis with the Blues receiving a third round pick as a sweetener.
March 1, 2023
Mar 27, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Jakob Chychrun (6) waits for the face-off during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
In a rare deadline move aimed at improving the present rather than selling for future assets, Dorion acquired Jakob Chychrun from the Arizona Coyotes on March 1, 2023. The Senators sent a 2023 conditional first-round pick, a 2024 conditional second-round pick, and a 2026 second-round pick to Arizona.
The deal signaled that Ottawa believed it was ready to take a step forward. Even with Cychrun, the Sens missed the next two playoffs. After that, rather than extend a third highly-paid, puck-moving, left-shot defenseman, new GM Steve Staios shipped him out in July of 2024 for right-shot, stay-at-home defenseman Nick Jensen.
March 7, 2025
Dec 21, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Ottawa Senators forward Josh Norris (9) during a stop in play against the Vancouver Canucks in the third period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
In his second deadline as GM, on March 7, 2025, Staios completed two major trades.
Ottawa acquired Dylan Cozens and Dennis Gilbert, along with a 2026 second-round pick, from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker. Norris was probably the best player in the deal, but staying healthy has famously proven to be elusive.
Later that day, the Senators also acquired Fabian Zetterlund, Tristen Robins, and a 2025 fourth-round pick from the San Jose Sharks, sending Noah Gregor, Zack Ostapchuk, and a 2025 second-round pick the other way.
Staios has two deadlines under his belt now. The first one in 2024 was uneventful, shipping Vladimir Tarasenko to Florida for a mid-round pick. The second one last year was fireworks.
This one is tricky, because whether Staios buys, sells or stands pat, one can make a pretty solid argument for each of his possible decisions.
Steve Warne The Hockey News
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Many New York Rangers fans may look at the Artemi Panarin trade to the Los Angeles Kings and feel underwhelmed.
Just two conditional picks and one prospect (Liam Greentree) in exchange for a superstar talent the likes of Panarin? How does that make sense?
At the surface level, it is a severely underwhelming trade package, but given the circumstances, Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury was ultimately handcuffed into settling for less value than Panarin is truly worth.
The Rangers seemingly lost leverage when it was announced on Jan. 16 that the team does not plan to re-sign Panarin beyond this season and will look to trade him to any team he wishes to join.
Panarin’s full no-move clause in his contract allowed him to dictate the exact destination that made the most sense for him.
Leading up to the trade, it was clear that Panarin was seeking a contract extension from the team to which he would be traded, as his seven-year, $81.5 million contract is set to expire after the 2025-26 season.
Upon being held out of the Rangers’ lineup starting on Jan. 28 due to roster management, Panarin and his agent, Paul Theofanous, were able to explore the market and determine which teams would be willing to give a contract extension that met their demands.
Multiple reports indicate that Panarin zeroed in on the Kings as his preferred destination, and the Rangers were only able to do business with them due to his no-move clause and unwillingness to be traded to any other organization outside of the Kings.
It was Panarin’s desire for a contract extension that gave the Kings an advantage over the multiple reported teams originally in the mix for the Russian winger, including the Washington Capitals, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, San Jose Sharks, and New York Islanders.
Panarin and his camp always held the cards throughout this entire saga.
There’s still plenty of blame to go around from Drury's end who, similar to the way in which he traded Chris Kreider, Jacob Trouba, Kaapo Kakko, and Ryan Lindgren, simply waited too long and let this situation with Panarin linger to the point where his value was diminished to what it ultimately could have been.
When it came down to it, the Rangers had no leverage, and this return for Panarin is just the harsh reality of the situation.
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Caleb Jones has been suspended for 20 games for violating the NHL/NHLPA's performance-enhancing substance program rules.
Jones, who has missed most of the 2025-26 season with various injuries, won't be eligible to return until Apr. 2 against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He has played in seven games this season, compiling only one point.
#LetsGoPens defenseman Caleb Jones has been suspended 20 games without pay for violating #NHL/#NHLPA performance enhancing substance program rules.
According to Penguins general manager and president Kyle Dubas, Jones came to the organization this week, telling the team that he had tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
"Caleb Jones informed us this week that he tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance under the NHL/NHLPA performance-enhancing substance program," Dubas said in a statement. "Throughout the process, Caleb has been forthcoming with the organization as to how he believes the positive test occurred. Caleb takes full responsibility for his actions, despite him being unaware that what he consumed was a prohibited substance at the time."
"The organization appreciates his transparency regarding this matter, and Caleb will follow all NHL and NHLPA protocols related to his suspension. Caleb has the full support of the Penguins organization, and we look forward to welcoming him back to the ice when he is cleared."
Jones was signed to a two-year contract by the Penguins during the 2025 offseason and will have one year left on that contract at a $900,000 cap hit for next season.
The Nets have ruled out guard Cam Thomas for Thursday’s game against the Magic due to personal reasons.
Curious timing, considering Thomas has been mentioned in trade rumors dating back to last year, when a contract extension was not agreed on.
Thomas did not make the trip to Orlando with his team as the basketball world awaits whether Brooklyn will trade the guard ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline.
The Nets drafted Thomas with the No. 27 pick of the 2021 NBA Draft and he gradually became a proficient scorer. After averaging 8.5 and 10.6 points per game in his first two seasons, Thomas took a major jump in the 2023-24 season when he became a regular starter for the Nets.
Across 66 games (51 starts), Thomas averaged 22.5 points and 2.9 assists while averaging 31 minutes a game.
The next season, Thomas was on track to have similar numbers, but suffered a number of injuries. He appeared in just 25 games (23 starts) but averaged a career high 24 points across 31 minutes.
This season, Thomas has played just 24 games with the Nets, averaging 24 minutes and 15.6 points on 40 percent shooting.
In the Nets’ loss to the Lakers on Tuesday, Thomas scored eight points on 3-of-7 shooting and dished two assists across 23 minutes.
If the Nets were to move Thomas, it would be another deal ahead of the trade deadline for GM Sean Marks after they acquired guard Ochai Agbaji and a second-round pick from the Raptors in a three-team trade that involved the Los Angeles Clippers.
Boston Celtics (32-18) at Houston Rockets (31-17) Wednesday, February 4, 2026 8:00 PM ET Regular Season Game #51, Road Game #27 TV: NBCSB, Space City Home Network, NBA-LP Radio: 98.5 Sports Hub, 790 AM, Sirius XM Toyota Center
The Celtics visit the Houston Rockets for the 2nd and final meeting between these two teams this season. The Rockets won the first meeting 128-101 in Boston on November 1. They split the series 1-1 last season, with each team winning on the road. The Celtics are 98-58 against the Rockets overall, all time. They are 42-34 in games played in Houston. The Celtics are playing in the 2nd of back to back games. They are 5-3 this year on the second night of back to back games.
The Rockets made some significant changes since last season. Their biggest change was a trade that brought Kevin Durant and Clint Capela to Houston in exchange for Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green and the 10th pick in the draft. They also signed Dorian Finney-Smith and Josh Okogie as free agents. They also brought in JD Davison as a 2-way player.
The Celtics are 3rd in the East, 5.5 games behind 1st place Detroit. They are tied with 2nd place New York, 2.5 games ahead of 4th place Toronto and 5th place Cleveland, 3.5 games ahead of 6th place Philadelphia and 6 games ahead of 7th place Miami. The Celtics are 10-6 against Western Conference opponents. They are 16-10 on the road and 7-3 in their last 10 games. They have won their last 3 games.
The Rockets are 4th in the West, 7 games behind first place OKC, 1.5 games behind 2nd place San Antonio, 1 game behind 3rd place Denver, 1.5 games ahead of 5th place Minnesota, 2 games ahead of 6th place Los Angeles Lakers, and 7th place Phoenix. They are 14-2 against Eastern Conference opponents. They are 17-9 at home and 8-2 in their last 10 games. They have won their last 3 games.
The Celtics complete a 2 game road trip with a game at Houston on Wednesday. After this trip they will host Miami, New York, and Chicago for a 3 game home stand, which will take them into the All Star Break. After the break, they will head out on a 4 game Western road trip through Golden State, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix, and Denver.
The Rockets are playing in the first of 2 home games. They will host Charlotte on Thursday in back to back games. They then play one game at Oklahoma City before hosting the Clippers for 2 straight games. Then they break for the All Star break before playing at Charlotte and at New York. They then host Utah and Sacramento.
The Celtics are still without Jayson Tatum as he rehabs from the Achilles tear. Chris Boucher is out for personal reasons. Anfernee Simons was traded to Chicago for Nikola Vucevic and neither player will be available since the trade is not official as yet. Jaylen Brown is doubtful with knee and hamstring soreness. Sam Hauser is out due to a thumb injury. I’m just making a wild guess that Pritchard, Scheierman and Walsh will get the start. With Joe Mazzulla you never know.
For the Rockets, Steven Adams is out for the season after undergoing season-ending left ankle surgery. Fred VanVleet is also out for the season after suffering a torn ACL in late September. Dorian Finney-Smith is out due to left ankle injury management. Kevin Durant missed Monday’s game against the Pacers due to a left ankle sprain. He is expected to return for this game and is listed as probable.
Probable Starting Matchups PG: Derrick White vs Amen Thompson
Derrick White | Getty ImagesAmen Thompson | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Celtics Reserves Xavier Tillman Hugo Gonzalez Luka Garza Josh Minott
2-Way Players Ron Harper, Jr Max Shulga Amari Williams
Injuries/Out Jayson Tatum (Achilles) out Chris Boucher (personal) out Sam Hauser (thumb) out Anfernee Simons (personal) out Nikola Vucevic (traded) out Jaylen Brown (hamstring/knee) doubtful
Head Coach Joe Mazzulla
Rockets Reserves Aaron Holiday Jae’sean Tate Steven Adams Reed Sheppard Josh Okogie Clint Capela Jeff Green
Two Way Players JD Davison Isaiah Crawford
Injuries/Out Fred VanVleet (ACL) out Steven Adams (ankle) out Kevin Durant (ankle) probable Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle) out
Head Coach Ime Udoka
Key Matchups Jaylen Brown vs Kevin Durant This should be a good matchup. Durant is averaging 26.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. He is shooting 51.0% from the field and 40.5% from beyond the arc. In the first game against the Celtics, Durant finished with 26 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block and 2 steals while shooting 72.7% from the field and 66.7% from beyond the arc. The Celtics need to do a better job of defending him in this game.
Neemias Queta vs Alperen Sengun Sengun is averaging 21.4 points, 9.4 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 50.1% from the field and 29.3% on threes. In the first game against the Celtics he finished with 16 points, 10 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 blocks and 1 steal while shooting 38.5% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. The Celtics need to defend him well and box out on rebounds if they want to win this game.
Honorable Mention Derrick White vs Amen Thompson Thompson is averaging 17.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.3 steals per game. He is shooting 50.7% from the field and 18.6% from beyond the arc. In the first game against the Celtics, he finished with 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists while shooting 50% from the field and 100% from beyond the arc.
Keys to the Game Defense – Defense is always a key to winning. Players struggle on offense in some games, but they can always play defense. The Rockets have an offensive rating of 117.9 (5th). The Celtics have an offensive rating of 120.7 (2nd). The Rockets are 4th with a defensive rating of 111.9 while the Celtics are 11th with a defensive rating of 113.1. The Celtics have to stick to their defensive identity in this one because the Rockets play tough defense and the Celtics can’t depend on a shoot out to win. In the first game between these two teams, the Celtics allowed the Rockets to shoot 54.5% from the field and 65.5% from beyond the arc. They have to defend better in this game if they hope to win it.
Rebound – In order to score, the Celtics need the ball and to get the ball, they will need to crash the boards as a team. The Celtics average 45.0 rebounds per game (11th) while the Rockets average 49.4 rebounds per game (1st). Much of rebounding is effort and when the Celtics put out extra effort on the boards, it usually carries over into the rest of their game. The Rockets are 1st in the league with 18.8 second chance points per game. The Rockets are a very good rebounding team and so the Celtics must come into the game determined to put out extra effort and to hustle for every rebound to limit 2nd chance points for the Rockets. In the first game against the Rockets the Celtics were out-rebounded 53-36. They must rebound better in this game.
Be Aggressive and Stay Focused – The Celtics have to be aggressive in taking the ball to the basket and not settling for 3 pointers on every possession, especially if the 3s aren’t falling. They also have to be aggressive in hustling for rebounds and for loose balls. And they have to be aggressive on defense. They have to play harder than the Rockets and play like the team that wants this game more. They also need to carry that aggressiveness through all 4 quarters with no let up. They also need to stay focused on taking good shots and making them. They have to keep their focus on playing team ball.
Be Consistent – The Celtics have been up and down this season so far. One game they lose to a team that they clearly should have beat. The next game they win in a blowout over a contender. One game they give up a big lead and lose down the stretch. The next game they come from behind to get a win. The Celtics need to get back to giving consistent effort every game and every quarter. No let up and no easy easy shots for their opponent.
X-Factors Back to Back Road Game – The Celtics are on the road where they have a 15-10 record. The Celtics are playing on the second night of back to back games while the Rockets at home and in the first of back to back games. The Celtics had to travel, stay in a hotel, play in front of a hostile crowd and on an unfamiliar court while the Rockets should get a boost from being on their home court. The Celtics also will be short handed as they wait for the trade to be finalized.
Coaching – The Rockets are led by former Celtics coach Ime Udoka, who left Boston under less than desirable circumstances. He was suspended for violating team rules and assistant coach Joe Mazzulla was made interim coach. Eventually, Udoka was officially released and Mazzulla was made head coach. I am sure that Udoka would love nothing more than to once again beat the team that let him go after he led that team to the Finals.
Officiating – The officiating is always an x-factor. Some referees call the game tight and others let them play. Some favor the home team and others call it evenly. Recently the officiating has been getting some scrutiny for being visibly bad. The Celtics have to play through whatever calls go against them and not allow bad calls or no calls to take away their focus on playing the game the right way.
SGA will be re-evaluated after the break. He suffered the injury in the Thunder's win over the Magic.
Gilgeous-Alexander being out for the All-Star Game means Commissioner Adam Silver will get to pick his replacement on the World Team for the game on Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
SGA's injury comes as backup point guard Ajay Mitchell is also out for Wednesday's game against the Spurs with a hip injury (he was out for the Orlando game as well).
The Thunder have been hit with injuries of late, and Wednesday against the Spurs will also be without Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Isaiah Hartenstein, Lu Dort and Alex Caruso. That said, OKC has a comfortable six-game lead over San Antonio for the No. 1 seed in the West.
Oklahoma City has some guard help coming, trading for the 76ers second-year player Jared McCain.
The Thunder are sending the Rockets' first-round pick this year (likely in the mid-20s) and three second-round picks for the promising shooting guard with a large social media following. Oklahoma City creates the roster spot by trading Ousmane Dieng to Charlotte for Mason Plumlee, then the Thunder will waive Plumlee.
This is a great pickup for the Thunder. McCain was the early frontrunner for Rookie of the Year last season until injuries derailed that, sidelining him for the season. He still hasn't been right this season, but in recent weeks, he has looked more like himself and started to find his form. McCain averaged 15.3 points in the 23 games he played pre-injury last season. He recently scored 17 against the Bucks and 12 against the Pelicans, but for the season is averaging 6.6 per game in limited minutes.
For a Thunder team that has some hard financial decisions coming — Holmgren and Williams max extensions kick in next season, Isaiah Hartenstein and Lu Dort are extension-eligible this summer, and Mitchell will be in 2027 — finding good players on rookie contracts who can contribute will be critical. McCain can be that guy.
