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MLB plans to use robot umpire challenge system in All-Star Game next week

NEW YORK — Major League Baseball plans to use its robot umpire technology for ball-strike challenges in Tuesday's All-Star Game at Atlanta, another step toward possible regular-season use next season.

MLB said Wednesday it intends to make the All-Star announcement Thursday.

Teams won 52.2% of their ball/strike challenges during the spring training test, with 617 of 1,182 challenges successful in the 288 exhibition games using the Automated Ball-Strike System. ABS was installed at 13 spring training ballparks hosting 19 teams, and an animation of the pitch was shown on video boards displaying the challenge result for spectators to see.

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said last month that the ABS system was likely to be considered for regular-season use by the 11-man competition committee, which includes six management representatives.

“I do think that we’re going to pursue the possibility of change in that process and we’ll see what comes out at the end of that,” he said. “The teams are really positive about ABS. I do have that unscientific system that I use: my email traffic. And my distinct impression is that using ABS in spring training has made people more prone to complain of balls and strike calls via email to me referencing the need for ABS.”

During the 2024 regular season, 10.9% of called pitches in the strike zone were ruled balls and 6.3% of called pitches outside of the strike zone were ruled strikes, according to MLB Statcast.

MLB has been experimenting with the automated ball-strike system in the minor leagues since 2019.

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Yankees' Cam Schlittler 'under control' in MLB debut: 'He earned this opportunity'

Cam Schlittler got the news on Monday that he would be making his major league debut for the Yankees on Wednesday night against the Seattle Mariners.

The right-hander said it was a "great feeling" when he found out he got the call and it was even better that he was able to join the team on Tuesday, a day before his start, to "get his feet wet" as he and manager Aaron Boone both put it after the game.

"It was really good to get here Tuesday and kind of just get my feet wet a little bit, see how guys go about their business and just kinda (see) the expectations around here," Schlittler said.

That full day of being around the team certainly helped calm the 24-year-old's nerves ahead of his debut, though he admitted to having "more jitters" Wednesday morning. Those jitters soon went away when he arrived back at the ballpark, focused for his first major league start.

After walking the first batter he faced, losing J.P. Crawford on a full count, Schlittler dialed back in and retired the next three batters, including two via strikeouts and showing off his 100 mph fastball in the process.

It's a pitch that Boone has been impressed with since watching Schlittler in spring training.

"Especially when he went up against some of the better lineups… you saw it play and that’s kinda been his calling card coming through," Boone said of the right-hander's fastball. "His size really works for him."

But the fastball wasn't the only pitch that Schlittler relied on. Of course, tempting as it is to try and blow hitters away with triple digits, Schlittler mixed in his secondary pitches as well and did so effectively.

"It’s about being under control and being solid with the secondary stuff and I thought that was as big a deal as anything tonight -- the secondary stuff was solid for him," Boone said. "I thought it was a really composed outing."

After the game, Schlittler mentioned that since the Yankees last saw him in spring training he's since ditched his splitter and gyro and added a cutter to give him a four-pitch mix of fastball, cutter, curveball and slider.

"I’ve seen really good results with it," he said.

He sure has as the 6-foot-6, 225-pounder was called up after pitching to a 2.82 ERA across 15 games (14 starts) between Double-A and Triple-A this season.

"He earned this opportunity, not just because there’s a bunch of guys down, but because he’s absolutely the guy that’s put up the numbers and done the work here in these first few months now at the higher level to get this opportunity," Boone said. "He’s got a big arm and he continues to get better."

After his scoreless first inning, Schlittler pitched well and was aided by a quick 3-0 lead to keep the pressure to a minimum. He exited after 5.1 innings, giving up three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven on 75 pitches (52 strikes). One of those seven strikeouts came on the last batter he faced, All-Star Cal Raleigh, who leads MLB with 36 home runs and is having one of the greatest seasons for a catcher.

Schlittler struck him out swinging on a 98 mph fastball up and away after striking him out looking in the first. Raleigh finished 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.

"I liked the matchup… I just felt like his heater could play," Boone said. "... To be able to get out of there on a high note with some score leverage, I was gonna let him get Raleigh."

When Schlittler walked off the field, he was given a well-deserved standing ovation, although he was too focused on the game to look up and soak the moment in.

"I think I kept the head down, probably should’ve looked up more, but again just fortunate for all the fans and family cheering me on," he said while adding, "it was really loud."

"It’s really good to go out there and put the team in a position to win and just kind of live out that dream," he continued. "... Obviously just trying to get the first one under my belt. Whatever happens I’m just fortunate to be here and get that opportunity and just take it day by day and see what happens."

Boone confirmed after the game that Schlittler will make his next start for the Yankees, taking the spot of Clarke Schmidt, who is out for the rest of the season.

"His stuff really plays and I thought his calm and poise and focus was excellent," the skipper said.

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Devin Booker, Suns reportedly agree to two-year, $145 million contract extension

When the Phoenix Suns traded Kevin Durant to Houston, there were calls from outside the organization to blow everything up — trade Devin Booker, trade or waive Bradley Beal, strip it down to the studs and rebuild.

That was never a consideration inside the organization. It's not how owner Mat Ishbia operates, he wants to push to win sooner rather than later (plus the Suns don't control their own first-round pick until 2032, so tanking isn't a great plan). It's also not what Devin Booker wanted. He's loyal and wants to be a Suns icon, playing his entire career for one franchise (like his idol, Kobe Bryant).

That's why the Suns and Booker have agreed to a two-year, $145 million max contract extension, a story first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN. Booker has three years remaining on his current contract. These two years are added to the end of the contract, keeping Booker with the Suns through the summer of 2030. Booker will make $70.1 million in 2028-29, and $75.7 million in 2029-30 (in reality, those numbers will likely come in slightly lower than that because the cap is not expected to keep rising at 10% a year, next year's projection is 7%).

This was an expected move. Booker, a four-time All-Star, averaged 25.6 points and 7.1 assists a game last season for the Suns, although his 3-point shooting slipped to 33.2% (after the season he owned that and said he needed to improve next season).

Booker, 28, is the anchor of a Suns team that has seen numerous changes this offseason. The Suns traded Durant and reportedly will buy out Beal soon (it has been "soon" for a few days now, which is something to watch). Out of the Durant trade, the Suns added Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, and with the No. 10 pick selected Duke center Khaman Maluach. They will all be coached by first-time coach Jordan Ott, who takes over for the fired Mike Budenholzer. Even all the way at the ladder of the organization, James Jones was pushed aside as GM (he has taken over as the Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations, for the NBA league office, replacing Joe Dumars), and Brian Gregory is now the general manager — with Ishbia saying he would be even more hands-on.

There is a lot of work to do to get the Suns back to the NBA Finals, where they were four years ago. Whatever happens with the Suns in the coming years, we know now Booker will be a part of it.

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Tampa Bay Lightning Trade Forward Prospect Isaac Howard to Edmonton Oilers

The Tampa Bay Lightning made a one-for-one trade on Tuesday night, sending forward prospect Isaac Howard to the Edmonton Oilers for fellow forward prospect Sam O'Reilly. 

Howard told the Lightning that he wasn't going to sign with them and would walk to unrestricted free agency in 2026 if the Lightning didn't trade him. The Lightning got good value for him in O'Reilly, even though he may not be as close to NHL-ready as Howard is. He still projects to be a solid NHL player once he is ready. 

The Oilers signed Howard to an entry-level contract immediately after announcing the trade.

Howard had been expected to return to Michigan State for the 2025-26 season but will turn pro after signing his ELC. He finished the 2024-25 season with 26 goals an 52 points in 37 games. He will given every opportunity to make the Oilers' main roster during training camp. 

O'Reilly is a good get for the Lightning after spent the 2024-25 season with the OHL's London Knights, finishing 28 goals and 71 points in 62 games. He will likely return to the Knights for another season this year. 

Howard made a lot of sense as a trade target for the Pittsburgh Penguins, but they weren't going to do a McGroarty for Yager type of trade for a second year in a row. If they were going to trade for him, it likely would've been for a lower price. 

Bookmark THN - Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab  to follow the latest Penguins news, roster moves, player features, and more! 

Featured Image Credit: Nick King/Lansing State Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s two homers fuel Yankees' 9-6 win over Mariners

The Yankees' offense remained hot and Cam Schlittler had an impressive major league debut as New York extended its winning streak to three with a 9-6 win over the Mariners.

Manager Aaron Boone put out the same lineup on back-to-back games for the first time since early April and it worked out as the Yankees have now scored 19 runs on 26 hits in the first two games of this series.

Here are the takeaways...

-Yankees prospect Schlittler made his major league debut Wednesday and the flamethrowing righty did not disappoint.

With one out and a man on first in the opening frame, Schlittler struck out Cal Raleigh with a 100 mph fastball on the black, looking for his first major league strikeout. He would strike out Randy Arozarena to end an electric first inning. Prior to Wednesday, the fastest pitch from a Yankees pitcher was a 98.5 mph sinker by Yerry De Los Santos. Schlittler threw six pitches in the first that were faster than that.

Schlittler got the full Yankee Stadium experience, allowing a line drive homer to J.P. Crawford that went 344 feet over the short porch. The second solo shot allowed was a no-doubter off the bat of Jorge Polanco that went 417 feet just inside the right field pole.

Schlitter came out for the sixth inning and after a ground-rule double to Julio Rodriguez, the young right-hander struck out Raleigh for the second time. Boone pulled his young pitcher to a standing ovation from the Yankee Stadium crowd.

Other than those two long balls, Schlittler was impressive. He threw 5.1 innings (75 pitches/52 strikes), allowing three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven.

-The third earned run allowed by Schlittler was thanks to Jonathan Loaisiga. Arozarena took the first pitch Loaisiga threw and deposited it into the right field stands to cut the Yankees lead to 6-4. He then allowed a two-run shot to Cole Young -- the first of his career -- in the seventh. Loaisiga has now allowed six home runs this season, the most he's given up in one year since 2019.

Luke Weaver came on and dominated. Weaver picked up five outs, allowing just one baserunner (HBP) and striking out three.

Devin Williams pitched a 1-2-3 ninth inning to lock down the Yankees' third consecutive win and their first series win in July.

-The Yankees' offense broke out in a big way with 10 runs on Tuesday and had a great start on Wednesday. They put up three runs in the first inning thanks to RBI singles by Cody Bellinger and Giancarlo Stanton, and an RBI groundout by Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Chisholm would add a solo shot in the third and a two-run shot in the fifth to give the Yankees a 6-2 lead. The Yankees second baseman has 10 home runs since returning from the IL on June 3. Only Raleigh and Aaron Judge have more in the AL, with 13 homers each.

-After the Mariners cut the Yankees' lead to 6-4, New York's offense put up a three-spot in the sixth thanks to the top of the order. After Austin Wells hit a leadoff double and Oswald Peraza reached on an error by Rodriguez, Jasson Dominguez singled home Wells and Judge doubled in two more.

Four Yankees had multi-hit games with Dominguez having the best game, finishing 3-for-4 with a walk, two runs and one RBI.

-Yankees GM Brian Cashman said Wednesday that he still believes in Anthony Volpe, and the young shortstop did pick up a single -- but was thrown out trying to stretch it to a double -- and finished 1-for-4.

Game MVP: Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Chisholm's homers came whenever the Mariners cut into the team's lead. They were clutch and with the bullpen's woes, the Yankees needed every run they could get.

Highlights

What's next

The Yankees and Mariners wrap up their three-game set Thursday night in the Bronx. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.

Marcus Stroman (1-1, 7.45 ERA) will take the mound while All-Star Bryan Woo (8-4, 2.77 ERA) will be on the bump for Seattle.

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Canadiens' AHL Affiliate Signs New Goalie

The Montreal Canadiens now have a new goalie to keep an eye on in their system next season. 

The Canadiens' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Laval Rocket, have announced that they have signed goaltender Benjamin Gaudreau to a one-year, two-way contract for the 2025-26 season.

Gaudreau spent most of the 2024-25 season at the ECHL level with the Indy Fuel. In 43 appearances with the ECHL squad, he posted a 21-16-6 record, a .902 save percentage, and a 2.46 goals-against average. He also had a 2-2-0 record, a .868 save percentage, and a 3.19 goals-against average in five AHL games with the Rockford IceHogs in 2024-25.

This was Gaudreau's first professional season, as he played his last season in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) in 2023-24 split between the Sarnia Sting and Erie Otters. In 151 OHL games over four seasons, he had a 74-54-15 record.

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Gaudreau was selected by the San Jose Sharks with the 81st overall pick of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.

Overall, there is no harm in Laval bringing in a prospect goalie like Gaudreau on this two-way AHL Deal. He is still only 22 years old, and he has the potential to improve as he continues to gain more experience, whether that is in the AHL or ECHL. At worst, he will simply give the Canadiens more goalie depth in the minors, which is never a bad thing.

It will be intriguing to see if Gaudreau can take a nice step forward in his game next season from here.

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Photo Credit: © David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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Mets top pitching prospect Nolan McLean strikes out 10 in second straight start for Triple-A

For the second consecutive outing, Mets pitching prospect Nolan McLean struck out double-digit batters in a start for Triple-A Syracuse.

Six days after fanning 10 over 5.0 innings for the first time in his career, McLean did it again on Wednesday night.

This time, the right-hander went six scoreless innings against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the Philadelphia Phillies' Triple-A affiliate, and allowed just three hits and three walks while striking out 10 on 97 pitches (62 strikes).

Now at 95 strikeouts through 87 innings pitched between Double-A and Triple-A, McLean is starting to show some elite swing-and-miss stuff in what has already been a breakout season for him.

Before these last two starts, the most strikeouts the 23-year-old had in a game this year was eight, which happened twice, both of which came while pitching for Binghamton. He struck out seven in his first start for Syracuse, but never had more than six in any other outing before his last two.

Wednesday's start was also the first time McLean allowed no earned runs since May 22, although he's allowed two earned runs or fewer in nine straight outings.

McLean came away with a no-decision, exiting the game in a scoreless tie. However, with Syracuse down 1-0 in the bottom of the ninth, prospect Drew Gilbert hit a game-tying single before Joey Meneses walked it off with a single of his own.

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Potential Next Great Russian Red Wing Dmitri Buchelnikov Hints At Future Plans

Few teams in the National Hockey League can boast the kind of rich history of enjoying success with top-notch Russian-born talent like the Detroit Red Wings. 

Not only did they feature the famed "Russian Five", many of which landed in the Hockey Hall of Fame, but they also enjoyed the talents of future Hall of Famer Pavel Datsyuk for 14 seasons. 

The Red Wings are hoping that forward Dmitri Buchelnikov, whom they selected with the 52nd overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, could be one of the next great Russian born players in Detroit. 

Buchelnikov, who is set to enter the upcoming 2025-26 season with the KHL's CSKA Moskva, recently disclosed to Nadezhda Tonkonog of the Russian-based Sport24 that he remains in regular contact with the Red Wings and Nikolai Vakurov, their Russian scout. 

We spoke probably two months ago,” Buchelnikov said via Sport24. “We talked about the season, what I will do in the summer. We always communicate with Nikolai Vakurov, their Russian scout, and are in touch. And not only about hockey, about life." 

Buchelnikov also confessed that he was literally shaking with excitement during his most recent conversation with Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman, who had a front-row seat to the numerous tremendous on-ice accomplishments of so many great Russian players in Detroit history. 

“When I stood talking to such a legend, my knees almost shook," he said. "I think all of us watched 'The Russian Five' (documentary). But this is through the TV, and seeing it live is worth a lot." 

Buchelnikov is under contract for another season with CSKA Moskva, but he looked ahead to when he could potentially travel overseas to North America and begin his professional career on American soil in Detroit's farm system. 

"It all depends on my game, how I will perform,” Buchelnikov said. “If I understand that I am approaching this level, that I can compete and, most importantly, win this competition, then, of course, I will think about it. But now I’m in Russia, I still have a year of contract, and I just have to think about getting into the top 6 here and showing everything with my play." 

Buchelnikov, who played last season with HC Vityaz Podolsk before being traded to CSKA Moskva, scored 15 goals with 39 assists in 65 games during the 2024-25 season. 

Young Russian players like Matvei Michkov (Philadelphia Flyers) and Ivan Demidov (Montreal Canadiens) have already transitioned from the KHL to the NHL and made an impact for their respective clubs, and it may not be long before Buchelnikov is able to do the same with Detroit. 

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Celtics reportedly actively shopping guard Anfernee Simons

After the Boston Celtics traded for Anfernee Simons in a cost-cutting move (sending Jrue Holiday to Portland), the Celtics found themselves at a fork in the road. Down one path was the option to hold on to Simons and let him play out the final year of his $26.7 million contract — keeping the 19.3 points a game guard to help fill some of the scoring void while Jayson Tatum is out — then letting him walk as a free agent next summer to save money.

The other path was to try to flip Simons in another trade. The Celtics apparently want to take the second path, reports ESPN's Brian Windhorst on his The Hoop Collective podcast (hat tip Real GM).

"I have talked to other teams who have said they are actively trying to trade Anfernee Simons. Whether they can or not is another [thing]."
At his recent press conference, Celtics President Brad Stevens talked up Simons.

"I think Anfernee is a guy that people out here probably don't see as much because of the time that they play," Stevens said, referencing the fact most Blazers games start at 10:30 p.m. Eastern. "But his ability to score, his ability to shoot the ball and make really hard shots is pretty elite. And you look at a guy that's 26 years old, that's averaged 20 [points] a game for three straight years, I think he's a really good player. And I think he can get better, and that's a big part of it."

In any trade, the Celtics would be looking to shed salary. While trading Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis got the Celtics below the second apron (saving the team nearly $200 million in salary and taxes), the right Simons trade might even get them below the first apron. If they do trade, Simons expect it to be for a big. Boston has lost Porzingis and Luke Kornett, and Al Horford is not likely to return, which would leave Neemias Queta as the starting five as of today.

Of course, finding that perfect trade will be difficult. Maybe impossible. Which is why the Celtics may be taking a short stroll down the "trade Simons" path, they very well could start the season on the "we're keeping him road," then see what happens closer to the trade deadline.

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Golden Knights Development Camp Spotlight: Alexander Weiermair and Mateo Nobert

While several returning players have made a strong impression at this year’s Vegas Golden Knights Development Camp, the spotlight also shines on two fresh faces, Alexander Weiermair and Mateo Nobert.

The Knights made a strategic move in the 2025 NHL Draft, trading up to select defenseman Mateo Nobert with the 85th overall pick, and also added forward Alexander Weiermair at 186th overall.

“It’s actually a funny story,” Weiermair said. “I was walking my dog outside, and I wasn’t even watching. My dad came running out screaming, so a lot of excitement. So happy to be here.”

Weiermair wasn’t the only one with a funny draft story either—Nobert had one of his own.

“We were at home watching TV, and there was an ad that went on. Before that, it was Pittsburgh who had the 85th pick,” Nobert explained. “Then I wait a bit, and I hear screaming from the other room. I got drafted, so I was like, ‘Oh, is it really Pittsburgh?’ and then they started screaming ‘Vegas.’ I was just jumping for joy.”

Weiermair reflected on his journey from competing in both the NCAA and CHL to earning a spot at Development Camp, describing the transition as a key step in his growth as a player.

“I think on the ice it’s definitely the pace,” Weiermair said. “It’s really fast, even though it’s the middle of the summer where everyone’s going full tilt, so it’s awesome to see. Then off the ice, doing the right things away from the rink. Being a professional, taking care of your body in the right way.”

As for Nobert, he talked about what his takeaways were from the camp as a whole.

“I think I needed to retain most of the information I got from the presentations and the meetings,” Nobert said. “Whether it’s nutrition, in gym, on ice, stuff like that, I think it’ll help with just becoming even more of a pro every day. So I think those meetings really helped me, and I think I’m gonna remember this week for my whole life.”

These two certainly are talented on the ice, but it’s clear that their off-ice personality shines and connects with the culture the organization strives to uphold every day.

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Edgecombe out for Sixers' opener in Vegas summer league with thumb injury

Edgecombe out for Sixers' opener in Vegas summer league with thumb injury  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

VJ Edgecombe will remain on the sidelines for the Sixers’ opening game in the Las Vegas summer league.

The No. 3 overall pick in this year’s draft has been diagnosed with a left thumb sprain, a team official said Wednesday night. He’ll miss the Sixers’ matchup Thursday evening vs. the Spurs and be re-evaluated Saturday. 

According to the official, Edgecombe “is participating in on-court workouts during his absence and is working closely with the team’s medical staff.”

Every team in Las Vegas will play at least five games. The Sixers’ first four are below:

  • Thursday, July 10 vs. Spurs at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN/NBCSP
  • Saturday, July 12 vs. Hornets at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2/NBCSP
  • Tuesday, July 15 vs. Wizards at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV/NBCSP 
  • Wednesday, July 16 vs. Mavericks at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN/NBCSP 

Edgecombe missed the Sixers’ last two games in the Salt Lake City summer league with an injury initially described as a “thumb contusion.” He was awfully impressive in his summer league debut, scoring 28 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in a tight loss to the Jazz. 

Entering summer league, Edgecombe said he wanted to work on “every little aspect” of his game, including “being more of a point guard.”

“I’m super excited for summer league. … I’m just ready to see how I operate within the system,” Edgecombe said last week at the Sixers’ summer league minicamp. “It might be just a small preview of what’s going to happen throughout the season.” 

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Edgecombe out for Sixers' opener in Vegas summer league with thumb injury

Edgecombe out for Sixers' opener in Vegas summer league with thumb injury  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

VJ Edgecombe will remain on the sidelines for the Sixers’ opening game in the Las Vegas summer league.

The No. 3 overall pick in this year’s draft has been diagnosed with a left thumb sprain, a team official said Wednesday night. He’ll miss the Sixers’ matchup Thursday evening vs. the Spurs and be re-evaluated Saturday. 

According to the official, Edgecombe “is participating in on-court workouts during his absence and is working closely with the team’s medical staff.”

Every team in Las Vegas will play at least five games. The Sixers’ first four are below:

  • Thursday, July 10 vs. Spurs at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN/NBCSP
  • Saturday, July 12 vs. Hornets at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2/NBCSP
  • Tuesday, July 15 vs. Wizards at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV/NBCSP 
  • Wednesday, July 16 vs. Mavericks at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN/NBCSP 

Edgecombe missed the Sixers’ last two games in the Salt Lake City summer league with an injury initially described as a “thumb contusion.” He was awfully impressive in his summer league debut, scoring 28 points and grabbing 10 rebounds in a tight loss to the Jazz. 

Entering summer league, Edgecombe said he wanted to work on “every little aspect” of his game, including “being more of a point guard.”

“I’m super excited for summer league. … I’m just ready to see how I operate within the system,” Edgecombe said last week at the Sixers’ summer league minicamp. “It might be just a small preview of what’s going to happen throughout the season.” 

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William Dufour Signs With KHL's Lada Togliatti

William Dufour has signed a one-year contract with the KHL's Lada Togliatti. 

Dufour recorded 18 points in 45 games with the Bridgeport Islanders and four points in 12 games with the Colorado Eagles this season after being sent to Colorado in the Brock Nelson trade at the deadline. 

The 23-year-old had a strong rookie professional season in 2022-23, posting 21 goals and 48 points in 69 games with Bridgeport. He was unable to continue progressing on an Islanders team that finished at the bottom of the AHL the past two seasons and could not acclimate in his brief time in Colorado. 

The Quebec City, Que., native had 45 goals and 95 points in 181 career AHL games and went pointless in one NHL game with the New York Islanders. 

A fifth round pick of the Islanders in 2020, Dufour had 56 goals and 110 points in 66 games his final junior season, helping the Saint John Sea Dogs win the 2022 Memorial Cup, capturing the Stafford Smythe and Ed Chynoweth Awards as Memorial Cup MVP and leading point scorer. 

With Dufour's goal scoring prowess and still being early in his career it would not a surprise to see him return to North America after regaining his confidence abroad. 

Make sure you bookmark The Hockey News' AHL Page for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns and so much more.   

Photo Credit: © Brad Penner-Imagn Images

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Matas Buzelis, Dalton Knecht among the returning players to watch during NBA 2K26 Summer League

While eight teams have already begun their summer action by playing in Salt Lake City and San Francisco, the entire NBA does not get together until the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, which begins on July 10. While many tend to focus on the incoming rookie class, which is expected, these are also critical games for returning players.

Some players may be working to prove they deserve a more significant role once the regular season begins, while others are in a position where they need to show they belong. With this in mind, below is a returning player from each team (with a few exceptions sprinkled in) worth tracking in Las Vegas.

Eastern Conference

Atlanta Hawks: Kobe Bufkin

Obviously, the starting point guard job is spoken for in Atlanta, with Trae Young leading a team that improved its roster significantly this summer. And with Nickeil Alexander-Walker among the newcomers, Bufkin won't find playing time easy to come by next season. That said, the former first-round pick is heading into his third NBA season and has yet to make an impact. At a minimum, he needs to perform well enough in Las Vegas to give Quin Snyder and the coaching staff something to consider in the months leading up to training camp.

Boston Celtics: Baylor Scheierman

With Jayson Tatum sidelined by a ruptured Achilles tendon and multiple rotation players exiting via trade or free agency, Boston's rotation will have a different look next season. As a result, Scheierman, the 30th overall pick in last summer's draft, may have an opportunity to earn more minutes. Limited to 31 games as a rookie, he'll look to use the summer as a springboard into the 2025-26 season. Jordan Walsh, whose contract does not become fully guaranteed until opening night, is another player on the Celtics' summer league roster who needs to impress.

Brooklyn Nets: Egor Demin

The Nets surprised many by using all five first-round picks on draft night, beginning with Demin at eighth overall. The former BYU standout is one of three rookies on the team's Summer League roster who could potentially spend time on the ball, with Nolan Traoré and Ben Saraf being the others. Demin is the selection here since he was the first selected in last month's draft, but these games in Las Vegas could serve as an early separator before training camp begins in the fall.

Charlotte Hornets: Ryan Kalkbrenner

We've got another exception to the rule that this list will consist of returnees, and with good reason. With Charlotte trading Mark Williams to Phoenix, Kalkbrenner is well-positioned to compete for the starting center job, even with the return of Moussa Diabate and the offseason signing of Mason Plumlee. The rookie out of Creighton joined Patrick Ewing as the only players in Big East history to win Defensive Player of the Year honors four times, and he made strides offensively throughout his college career.

Chicago Bulls: Matas Buzelis

Considering the number of starts he made last season,
Buzelis is the most experienced player on this list. He made 80 appearances for the Bulls last season, 31 of which were starts, and the rookie was a fixture in the starting five from February 5 onward. What will be interesting to watch in Vegas is how Buzelis and 2025 first-round pick Noa Essengue mesh, as they have similar body types. They may become Chicago's forward tandem of the future, especially when considering Patrick Williams' struggles.

Cleveland Cavaliers: Craig Porter Jr.

While the Cavaliers did lose valued reserve Ty Jerome in free agency, they added another point guard to the mix by acquiring Lonzo Ball from the Bulls. If he's healthy, Ball will handle the backup point guard responsibilities. However, health has been an issue for the veteran guard in recent seasons, which means the Cavaliers need Porter to remain the reliable option he's been when pressed into duty in the past. Hopefully, he will use Las Vegas to show he can be more than an emergency fill-in.

Detroit Pistons: Ron Holland II

Holland was part of the Pistons' rotation as a rookie, appearing in 81 regular-season games and averaging 15.6 minutes per contest. However, he fell out of the rotation during the team's first-round series against the Knicks, so motivation should not be an issue. Holland will need to show progress in perimeter shooting, as he made 23.8 percent of his 1.4 three-point attempts per game as a rookie. With the Pistons losing Tim Hardaway Jr. in free agency and the current controversy surrounding Malik Beasley, they'll need more consistency from Holland, even with the acquisition of Duncan Robinson.

Indiana Pacers: Johnny Furphy

Furphy's playing time was limited last season, as he averaged 7.6 minutes per game in 50 regular-season appearances. While he did not share a position with Tyrese Haliburton or Myles Turner, the former's absence and the latter's departure mean Indiana will have a far different look next season. Even in a crowded wing rotation, can Furphy do enough to earn consistent playing time next season? Playing well in Las Vegas would undoubtedly make a positive impression on the Pacers' decision-makers.

Miami Heat: Kel'el Ware

Having played well in Miami's games at the California Classic, Ware may not see much time in Las Vegas. He's coming off an All-Rookie season in which he started 36 of the 64 games he played, proving to be a solid frontcourt partner for Bam Adebayo. If anything, Las Vegas may be of greater importance to Pelle Larsson, who played in 55 games as a rookie, since Ware is the more proven player from an NBA standpoint.

Milwaukee Bucks: Andre Jackson Jr.

Keita Bates-Diop and two-way contract player Jamaree Bouyea have more NBA seasons under their respective belts. Still, neither is on a guaranteed standard contract for next season, going into summer league. However, Jackson is, and he could use a quality showing in Las Vegas after providing little statistical value in either of his first two seasons. The former second-round pick made 43 starts last season but only averaged 14.6 minutes per game and fell out of Doc Rivers' rotation after the All-Star break.

New York Knicks: Tyler Kolek

With Cameron Payne and Delon Wright still being unrestricted free agents, Kolek may have the opportunity to earn the backup point guard role. While Miles McBride and free agent signing Jordan Clarkson can be used on the ball, that does not automatically mean there won't be any room for Kolek in new head coach Mike Brown's rotation. Him, 2024 first-round pick Pacôme Dadiet and 2024 second-round picks Ariel Hukporti and Kevin McCullar are all on the Knicks' summer league roster, and all could potentially benefit from the change at the top if it means they'll receive more chances to prove themselves.

Orlando Magic: Tristan da Silva

Due to injuries that sidelined Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero for extended periods, the Magic were forced to rely on da Silva more than they may have expected before the 2024-25 season began. He started 38 of the 74 games he played as a rookie, averaging 7.2 points and 3.3 rebounds in 22.0 minutes. Da Silva's minutes may not change much next season with Wagner and Banchero being healthy, but he can use this summer as a springboard into his second year in Orlando.

Philadelphia 76ers: Adem Bona

Due to the 76ers' struggles with injuries, Bona and fellow rookie Justin Edwards played far more than expected last season. A healthy roster may result in fewer opportunities for both, but Bona's chances of earning consistent rotation minutes may be greater. Joel Embiid's injury history cannot be ignored, and Andre Drummond is back after a subpar 2024-25 season. With the 76ers losing Guerschon Yabusele in free agency, Bona is worth tracking during the summer and preseason, especially if Embiid is not fully cleared when training camp begins.

Toronto Raptors: Ja'Kobe Walter

Injuries limited Walter to 52 games as a rookie, but he made 18 starts due to the absences of players ahead of him in the Raptors' pecking order. Adding Brandon Ingram will make it more difficult for Walter to crack a crowded perimeter rotation. However, Ingram's struggled with injuries in recent seasons, as have RJ Barrett and Gradey Dick. It would take a lot for Walter to become a player worth targeting in fantasy leagues, but playing well in Las Vegas would help his case.

Washington Wizards: Alex Sarr

The Wizards are taking a measured approach to their rebuild, with Sarr being one of the focal points by virtue of being the second overall pick in the 2024 draft. After the All-Star break, he averaged 15.6 points per game, an improvement of four points compared to his pre-break average. Efficiency was an issue for Sarr throughout his rookie season; exploding in Las Vegas with solid percentages would go a long way toward solidifying his spot as a key building block for Washington moving forward. Something else to watch will be the chemistry between Bub Carrington and lottery pick Tre Johnson, as they could be the Wizards' backcourt of the future.

Western Conference

Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg

The Mavericks' summer roster only has two players with prior NBA experience, so we'll focus on Flagg. The top overall pick in last month's draft projects to be a scorer, and Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said during Flagg's introductory press conference that he wants the rookie to play some point guard. With Kyrie Irving (ACL) set to miss a significant portion of the upcoming season, opportunities will be available. And if Flagg is comfortable with the role, it would raise his already-high fantasy ceiling.

Denver Nuggets: DaRon Holmes II

Holmes is not an official returnee since he did not appear in a game last season. However, he's worth tracking coming off a ruptured Achilles tendon for multiple reasons. As Denver's first-round pick in 2024, Holmes won't lack opportunities to show what he can do. And with the Jonas Valančiūnas situation, the rookie forward may have added importance to the Nuggets next season. It's worth noting that Denver will reportedly hold Valančiūnas to his contract, meaning most of Holmes' minutes will likely come at the four.

Golden State Warriors: Will Richard

We've already seen Richard in action this summer thanks to the California Classic. How much room there may be for the former Florida guard within the Warriors' rotation next season depends on what happens with Jonathan Kuminga, who remains a restricted free agent. As one of three Warriors summer league players to play in April's national title game (LJ Cryer and Ja'Vier Francis played for Houston that night), Richard may be better equipped to help a team with contending ambitions than a less-experienced prospect.

Houston Rockets: Reed Sheppard

Houston's work in free agency has grabbed the attention of the masses, and with good reason. However, another question for the franchise to answer this summer is how prepared Sheppard is to take on consistent rotation minutes. The 2024 lottery pick appeared in 52 games as a rookie, providing minimal production. Fred VanVleet remains the starting point guard and Aaron Holiday was re-signed, but Sheppard proving capable of taking on a slightly larger role would be good news for the Rockets.

Los Angeles Clippers: Kobe Brown

In his first two NBA seasons, Brown has been unable to establish himself as a consistent figure within the Clippers' rotation. To say that needs to change in 2025-26 would be an understatement. In 84 appearances, Brown has averaged 7.9 minutes per game. The path to fantasy relevance may not exist, especially with the Clippers adding John Collins via trade. Still, the Clippers would benefit if Brown could show that he's ready to offer greater competition for minutes at the power forward position.

Los Angeles Lakers: Dalton Knecht

Like a few players on this list, we've seen Knecht already this summer due to the Lakers competing in the California Classic. His rookie season was a roller coaster, beginning with a run in November in which he scored 14 points or more in five of seven games, including a 37-point effort against the Jazz. However, Knecht's inconsistent production and defensive struggles meant he could not offer much to fantasy managers, and there was also the failed trade in February that would have sent him to Charlotte. If you're the Lakers, you probably hope Knecht plays so well in their early Las Vegas games that they can sit him for the final games.

Memphis Grizzlies: Jaylen Wells

A second-round pick, Wells was one of the best rookies in the NBA last season as he earned a place in the Grizzlies' starting lineup. While Memphis added Kentavious Caldwell-Pope via trade, the veteran guard lacks Desmond Bane's offensive capabilities. That change may open some things up for Wells offensively, especially with Jaren Jackson Jr. (toe) not guaranteed to be available when training camp begins. Add in Ja Morant's injury history, and Wells is well-positioned to provide greater fantasy value than he did as a rookie.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Terrence Shannon Jr.

The Timberwolves re-signed Julius Randle and Naz Reid, but the money spent on those deals meant there wasn't enough money available to keep Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Shannon, who only appeared in 32 games as a rookie due to injury and not being a consistent member of the Timberwolves' rotation, has the tools on both ends of the floor to help account for Alexander-Walker's exit. While Rob Dillingham is also worth tracking in Las Vegas, Shannon's path to consistent minutes appears clearer once the regular season begins.

New Orleans Pelicans: Yves Missi

Missi was a starter for most of his rookie season, starting 67 of the 73 games he played. While that role may not change, the additions of Derik Queen and Kevon Looney add competition for the former Baylor center. While a good showing in Las Vegas would strengthen Missi's case to remain the starter, he's playing for a new front office, which may be a factor in what happens once training camp opens.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Nikola Topić

Technically speaking, Topić is not a returnee as recovery from a torn ACL sidelined him for the entire 2024-25 season. However, he was around the Thunder as the franchise won its first NBA title, and the rookie guard may be the player best equipped to log significant rotation minutes next season, with apologies to Ajay Mitchell. Topić struggled with his shot and turnovers during Oklahoma City's three games in Salt Lake City. Still, the role he'll be asked to take on during the regular season stands to be far different due to Oklahoma City's depth. At a minimum, Topić is worth watching for those starting new dynasty leagues in the fall.

Phoenix Suns: Ryan Dunn

Kevin Durant's exit means Dunn should have even more opportunities to establish himself on the wing, even though the Suns received Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks in that trade. As a rookie, the former Virginia forward made 44 starts, averaging 9.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 0.8 steals, 0.5 blocks and 1.5 three-pointers per game. While Dunn faces significant competition for minutes once training camp begins, Las Vegas will be an opportunity to show more of his offensive skill set.

Portland Trail Blazers: Rayan Rupert

Most eyes will be on first-round pick Yang Hansen in Las Vegas regarding the Trail Blazers. However, this will also be a pivotal time for Rupert, who has yet to carve out a consistent role for himself. He played in 52 games last season but only averaged 8.8 minutes per appearance. Unless Rupert explodes offensively, what he does in Las Vegas is unlikely to impact his fantasy value in 2025-26, especially given Portland's depth on the wings. But, performing well would make a positive impression on head coach Chauncey Billups and the front office.

Sacramento Kings: Devin Carter

Carter, the Kings' first-round pick in the 2024 draft, did not get to play in Las Vegas last summer due to shoulder surgery. While the starting point guard job is spoken for following the addition of Dennis Schröder, there will be opportunities for Carter to contribute off the bench. He averaged 11.0 minutes per game in 36 appearances as a rookie, so Carter clearly needs to show during summer league that he's ready to compete for more playing time.

San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper

Due to a groin injury, Harper did not play in San Antonio's three games at the California Classic. There aren't any great options among the returnees on the Spurs' summer roster, so the second overall pick is the choice here. The good news for fantasy managers, especially those in dynasty leagues, is that San Antonio cleared out some of the guard rotation by moving Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley to Washington via trade. If Harper cannot go in Las Vegas, the attention will shift to fellow first-round pick Carter Bryant, who has the size, athleticism and defensive ability to be a factor next season.

Utah Jazz: Cody Williams

Brice Sensabaugh and Isaiah Collier played well in Utah's three games in Salt Lake City, a positive sign for the rebuilding franchise. While many will continue to focus on rookie Ace Bailey, Williams should also draw attention as he looks to bounce back from a disappointing rookie season. While capable of offering value when his shot isn't falling, Williams could not do that last season. He doesn't need to torch opposing defenses in Las Vegas, but it would likely calm some nerves among the Jazz fanbase if Williams were to play well on both ends of the floor.

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Yankees' Brian Cashman on Anthony Volpe's struggles: 'I’m not counting him out'

It's no secret Anthony Volpe has had a rough year and an even rougher beginning to his Yankees career.

Now in his third year as the starting shortstop, Volpe hasn't progressed the way the organization had hoped. Through 90 games, he's slashing .217/.293/.393 -- about right on par with his career averages in 409 games.

Not only has his offense stagnated, but his defense and baserunning have appeared to regress -- already with 11 errors on the season and a -3 Outs Above Average (OAA) after a career-high 14 OAA in 2024. He's also been caught stealing seven times in 17 attempts for a success rate of 59 percent.

Drafted in the first round with the 30th overall pick in 2019 and billed as the next Derek Jeter, Volpe has severely underperformed in that admittedly unfair comparison.

But even compared just among his peers, Volpe has not been good.

Since 2023, Volpe is one of 62 players who have registered at least 1500 plate appearances and during that time, he ranks last in average, on-base percentage, OPS, wRC+ and wOBA.

This year, he's currently on pace for a 2 fWAR, which ranks 24th among 30 starting shortstops.

Yet, despite the numbers on both sides of the ball, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said he's "a fan of Volpe" and admires his "strength and fortitude" throughout his struggles, especially as he goes through them at such a young age while being the starting shortstop on the Yankees.

In fact, Cashman still believes that Volpe can put it all together and become the player that he and the rest of the organization think the youngster can be and pointed to Volpe's success in New York's run to the World Series last season as a reason to keep the faith.

"He helped us get to a World Series last year, performed in the World Series last year and he does not lack confidence. Yes, there’s struggles that have happened and yet he’s like this," Cashman said while gesturing a wipe of the shoulder. "It doesn’t stick to him. It’s turn the page and he’s focused on tonight’s game, and I do have belief and optimism that he obviously will impact us in a really positive way on both sides of the ball.

Cashman continued: "He’s our shortstop and I don’t forget where he was and what he was doing in the biggest stage of the game last October and despite the twists and turns of how the season currently is playing out, (there's) a lot of season left to be played so I’m not counting him out and I know he’s gonna be part of the solution rather than the problem."

To Volpe's credit, Cashman is right about his performance in the postseason last year.

In his first taste of the playoffs, Volpe slashed .286/.407/.408 with a home run, three doubles, six RBI, 10 walks, 10 runs scored and five stolen bases (no caught stealings). His lone home run was a grand slam in Game 4 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, the only game the Yankees won.

Now it's about getting that type of production for an entire season.

"The peaks and valleys are a part of a six-month season," Cashman said. "I mean, we got out of the gate somewhat unbeatable for a period of time and now we’re beatable. And that’s part of the twists and turns of a season, and trying to ride those emotions and try to keep perspective, but also recognize the potholes when they come up. I do not consider (Volpe) a problem. I understand that there’s struggles there, but again,I believe he’ll be fine."

The Yankees sure hope Volpe picks it up sooner rather than later as he's been in a massive slump over his last 30 games, batting just .173 (18-for-104) while making a slew of questionable plays at shortstop.

"We have a really potent offense that’s one of the top run producers in the game," Cashman said. "... and he certainly can come join the party sooner than later and I believe he will. I just have a high belief in him."