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Why Bruins should prioritize defensemen in 2026 NHL Draft

Why Bruins should prioritize defensemen in 2026 NHL Draft originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The Boston Bruins have been searching for a No. 1 and No. 2 center since Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci retired after the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

They tried to find one in free agency in 2024 by signing Elias Lindholm to a seven-year contract worth $54.25 million. The B’s also have tried to acquire one of these players through the draft. They’ve tried pretty hard, actually.

The Bruins drafted four centers in 2025, including their first-round pick James Hagens and second-round pick Will Moore. Two of their four picks in 2024, including Dean Letourneau in Round 1, were centers. Boston also drafted two centers in 2023 and three in 2022.

It remains to be seen whether any of these players will become top-six centers. Hagens, Letourneau and Moore have the best chance.

There’s another position the Bruins need to start investing heavily in, especially in the draft.

Defensemen.

If you look at the Bruins’ top prospects, none of them are defensemen. In fact, The Athletic’s Scott Wheeler ranked Boston’s top 14 prospects back in April and Frederic Brunet (No. 9) was the only defenseman to make the list.

There is a severe lack of high-end blue line talent in the Bruins’ prospect pool. Specifically, there is a lack of puck-moving defensemen with high offensive upside who can quarterback a power play.

This is a problem because one of the Bruins’ most glaring roster weaknesses at the NHL level right now is the need for another top-four defenseman, preferably a right shot. The solution to that problem is not going to come from within, at least not any time soon. Brunet is nowhere near ready for that role. Mason Lohrei has impressive offensive talent, but his defensive liabilities are impossible to ignore. Henri Jokiharju played well at the Olympics for Finland, but he was a healthy scratch multiple times in the playoffs. Jordan Harris and Jonathan Aspirot are not top-four defensemen on a true contender.

If the Bruins want to acquire a top-four defenseman in the near term, the free agent and trade markets are the only options. Should they pursue Rasmus Andersson in free agency? He is the top defensemen who could hit the market this summer. Andersson is 29 years old, and even though he is a very good player, he isn’t a game-changer. An expensive, long-term contract for Andersson could end up being a huge mistake.

A trade for a defenseman player like Owen Zellweger of the Ducks is a risk worth taking. But the price to make that kind of move could be quite high.

Regardless of what the Bruins do to upgrade their blue line for next season, they need to start investing more valuable draft capital in defensemen.

The 2026 draft class is actually pretty deep at the position, and there are a couple of intriguing options for the Bruins with the No. 23 overall pick.

One of them is Adam Goljer, a right-shot defenseman who currently plays in his home country of Slovakia. Corey Pronman of The Athletic predicted the B’s would take Goljer in a recent 2026 NHL mock draft.

“Goljer is trending up with teams after a strong U18 worlds,” Pronman wrote. “He skates well, breaks up plays effectively and makes a good first pass, even if he doesn’t project as a major offensive driver. He projects as a two-way defenseman of whom the Bruins have very little of in their system.”

Ryan Lin of the Vancouver Giants (WHL), Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL), Maksim Sokolovskii of the London Knights (OHL), Sweden’s William Hakansson and Finland’s Juho Piiparinen are other potential options for the Bruins in the first or second rounds if they target a defenseman. Xavier Villeneuve of Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL) is a tremendous skater with exciting offensive talent who might still be available at No. 23.

The last time the Bruins selected a defenseman in the first round was Urho Vaakanainen at No. 17 overall in 2017. He was eventually traded to the Ducks as part of the deal that brough Hampus Lindholm to Boston.

The Bruins have a No. 1 defenseman on the NHL roster in Charlie McAvoy. He’s 28 years old and should have several more excellent seasons ahead of him. But he was the only Bruins defenseman who tallied more than 26 points last season. There’s not enough offensive firepower on Boston’s blue line. McAvoy can’t shoulder that burden alone.

Lindholm is 32 years old. Nikita Zadorov is 31 years old. Andrew Peeke could leave in free agency. The Bruins need an influx of impressive young talent on the blue line, and they need it very soon. It’s one reason why accelerating that process by taking a defenseman in Round 1 of the upcoming draft is a great idea.

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Whitecaps crush Dayton, Edian Espinal and Beau Ankeney stay hot in Lakeland win

Toledo Mud Hens 3, Worcester Red Sox 2 (box)

The Hens scored in the top of the tenth after a well pitched game, and reliever Jack Little slammed the door, striking out the side in the bottom half to win in Worcester on Thursday.

Sawyer Gipson-Long has pitched better of late, and he turned in a solid start on Thursday. The right-hander’s outing ended after he allowed a two-run homer to Tyler McGonough in the fifth, but he was nearly perfect otherwise, racking up seven strikeouts on the night. Ricky Vanasco and Woo-Suk Go each gave the Hens two scoreless innings of relief.

The Hens opened the scoring in the third when Andrew Navigato and Max Clark led off with singles. Trei Cruz struck out, but a fly out from Gage Workman was enough to get Navigato to third, and Clark then stole second. An infield single that pitcher Brayan Bello couldn’t handle scored Navigato for a 1-0 lead.

Brett Callahan singled with one out in the sixth and stole second and third, but Tyler Gentry and Jace Jung struck out. Finally in the eighth, Max Anderson tripled the opposite way off Kristian Campbell’s glove in the right field corner, and a blooper over the shortstop from Callahan was enough to get the run home and tie the game.

In the top of the ninth, with Cruz starting at second, Gage Workman walked, and a Max Anderson single to center scored Cruz to make it 3-2. Unfortunately, Callahan popped out and Gentry grounded into an inning ending double play.

So, Jack Little took over in the bottom of the 10th looking to hold the lead and wrap this up. He quickly punched out the first hitter on a bunt attempt, and then punched the second one out as well. A 95 mph heater above the zone blew away Micky Romero, and that was good work from Little to earn the save.

Anderson: 3-5, R, 2 RBI, 3B

Clark: 2-5, SB

Callahan: 2-5, RBI, 2 SB

Gipson-Long: 5.0 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 7 K

Coming Up Next: The Hens will look to make it five straight on Friday at 6:45 p.m. ET.

Binghamton Rumble Ponies 10, Erie SeaWolves 7 (box)

It was a pretty good night for the offense, but Max Alba and the pitching staff were not good in this one.

Peyton Graham reached on a force in the first and then stole second, scoring on a Chris Meyers single for an eraly 1-0 lead. It didn’t last as the Ponies got to Alba for five runs in the second and third innings combined.

In the bottom of the third, Seth Stephenson singled and scored on a Peyton Graham triple to left that should’ve been caught, but wasn’t. Thayron Liranzo walked, and Graham scored on a wild pitch that got Liranzo to second. He scored on a Meyers single to make it a 5-4 game, but that was as close as they’d get.

Eric Silva allowed a run in the fourth, but the SeaWolves got that one back in the bottom of the fifth on an Andrwe Jenkins sacrifice fly that scored Meyers. Again it was 6-5 and a one run game, but the bullpen couldn’t shut the Ponies down. Johan Simon allowed two runs in the top of the seventh with aid from a Graham error at shortstop. Max Burt got those runs back with his first Double-A home run, a two-run shot, after taking over for Izaac Pacheco, who left with a leg injury.

Luke Taggart allowed two runs in the top of the ninth as the Ponies put this one to bed.

Graham: 3-4, 2 R, RBI, 2B, 3B, BB, SB

Meyers: 2-4, R, 2 RBI, BB

Bigbie: 2-3, R, BB

Alba (L, 1-3): 2.2 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, BB, K

Coming Up Next: It’s a 6:35 p.m. ET start on Friday with the SeaWolves up 2-1 in the series.

West Michigan Whitecaps 11, Dayton Dragons 4 (box)

Lucas Elissalt was pulled after a long first inning, allowing just one run but topping the 30 pitch mark that triggers the insta-hook. It mattered little as the offense raked and the bullpen did a solid job holding things down the rest of the game.

The Dragons led 2-0 early, but the ‘Caps seized control in the third. Singles from Caleb Shpur and Woody Hadeen were followed by walks to Andrew Sojka and Ricardo Hurtado, plating a run. A sac fly from Luke Shliger scored Hadeen, and then Clayton Campbell got a mistake pitch and pumped a three-run jack to left to make it 5-2 Whitecaps.

In the fourth, Stephen Hrustich singled and scored on a Sojka single later in the inning. In the seventh, Sojka led off with a triple and scored on a Hurtado single. Shliger singled as well, and after Campbell flew out, Samuel Gil singled to shortstop to load the bases. Juan Hernandez plated two with a single, and Shpur and Hadeen came up with RBI singles to make it 11-4.

Preston Howey tossed three innings of one-run ball to pace the bullpen, while Ryan Harvey earned the win despite allowing a pair of runs in 2.1 innings of work.

Bryce Rainer had the day off.

Hadeen: 2-4, R, RBI, BB, K

Sojka: 2-4, 2 R, RBI, 3B, BB

Campbell: 1-3, R, 3 RBI, HR, BB

Harvey (W, 2-2): 2.1 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K

Coming Up Next: It’s a 7:05 p.m. ET start on Friday with the Whitecaps down 2-1 in the series.

Lakeland Flying Tigers 12, Daytona Tortugas 6 (box)

Malachi Witherspoon got wild after a good start to his outing, but it didn’t matter to this game as the Flying Tigers cranked out 14 hits and drew 7 walks to crush the Tortugas with ease.

Jordan Yost opened the game with a single but was erased on an Edian Espinal double play ball. That was too bad, as Beau Ankeney smoked his 11th home run for a 1-0 lead.

In the second, Zach MacDonald reached on a bunt single with one out and then stole second for his 20th steal on the season. Anibal Salas reached on an error and a wild pitched scored MacDonald. Hunter Robbins doubled in Salas, and Jack Goodman was hit by a pitch. An Espinal two-run single made it 5-0, and then Ankeney doubled in Espinal and scored on a Carson Rucker single to make it 7-0 through two innings.

Witherspoon gave up a solo shot in the third. In the fourth, he issued three walks and allowed three runs, with a Rucker error extending the inning and making them unearned.

An RBI double from Dobbins that initially looked like a homer scored MacDonald in the fifth. Ankeney singled in two runs later on in the inning to make it 10-4.

Xiomer Guacache got into a huge two-out, bases loaded jam in the bottom of the fifth, but MacDonald made a spectacular diving catch in center field to rob an extra base hit and probably save three runs.

Dobbins and Yost walked in the top of the seventh and advanced 90 feet on a passed ball. An Espinal two-run single made it 12-4. The bullpen leaked a run each in the seventh and eighth, but this was out of reach by then.

Ankeney: 3-6, 2 R, 4 RBI, 2B, HR, K

Espinal: 2-5, R, 4 RBI, BB, K

Dobbins: 2-3, 3 R, 2 RBI, 2 2B, 2 BB, K

Yost: 2-3, R, 3 BB

Witherspoon: 4.0 IP, 4 R, 1 ER, H, 4 BB, 4 K

Coming Up Next: It’s a 6:35 p.m. ET start on Friday with the Flying Tigers down 2-1 in the series.

FCL Blue Jays 2, FCL Tigers 0 (box)

Alemain Cruz gave the Tigers a pretty good outing and the bullpen was alright, but they couldn’t put any runs up on the board. Michael Oliveto had a double for his first extra base hit in pro ball, and shortstop Angel de los Santos continues to hit and get on base, but otherwise it was a pretty weak effort in this one from the offense.

De Los Santos: 1-2, BB, SB

Olivato: 1-3, 2B

Cruz: 3.1 IP, 0 R, 4 H, BB, 2 K

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Today on Pinstripe Alley – 6/26/26

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 25: Ben Rice #22 of the New York Yankees signs autographs before a game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on June 25, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Yankees dropped their series opener against the Red Sox in a rather sloppy effort, with several errors culminating in Cam Schlittler allowing a four-run fifth inning capitalized by a big two-run home run off the bat of former Yankee prospect Caleb Durbin. That blew what was a 2-0 New York lead up until that point, but despite clawing one of those runs back the Sox added some big insurance with two runs in the eighth and then survived an Aroldis Chapman jam in the ninth. A rough one to be sure, but there’s still three more games to be played out in Fenway before heading back to the Bronx.

We’ve got a loaded schedule on deck before the Yankees take the field again later tonight. Nick starts us off with a look at the rotation depth as June comes to a close, and then Sam has the Rivalry Roundup featuring the Rays gaining a game back in the standings after a dominating win. Josh takes the opportunity to regard Derek Jeter’s illustrious career in relation to his baseball fandom on the captain’s birthday, Peter examines Ryan Weathers’ latest start in the Sequence of the Week, Michael takes the June Swoon narrative under the microscope, and finally I’ll be back to open up the mailbag and answer more of your questions.

Today’s Matchup:

New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox

Time: 7:10 p.m. EST

TV: YES, NESN

Venue: Fenway Park, Boston, MA

Questions/Prompts:

1. Tonight will be the Yankees’ 81st game played. Will their second-half record eclipse the 48-49 wins they’ll have from the first half?

2. Did you believe that the old Aroldis Chapman was going to emerge in that ninth inning and blow it last night?

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Islanders News: NHL Draft time

Let’s get some high numbers and preseason Devils action out here. | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Tonight’s the night…the first round of the NHL Draft takes place via conference calls and hopefully through less-awkward TV means than last year (though we’ll never forget that Matthew Schaefer moment).

Islanders News

  • With the 13th overall pick, the Islanders…will probably select someone. [Newsday]
  • This is the Islanders preseason schedule, feel the excitement. [Isles]
  • Some more mock drafts…Oscar Hemming enters the chat. [NHL]
  • Oh and here’s another mock draft, another one sending Tynan Lawrence to the Isles. [ESPN]
  • ERMEGRD, the Canadiens supposedly called the Isles about Bo Horvat and the Isles said no. {click} [THN]

Elsewhere

  • Here’s another draft ranking, a top 100. It has Stenberg above McKenna. [Sportsnet]
  • And here’s another mock draft. It has OHL LW Ethan Belchetz to the Isles. [Sportsnet]
  • Here are some random late thoughts about random top 100 prospects. [Athletic]
  • How do 13 NHL scouts feel about the top defensemen in this draft? [Athletic]
  • Rumor roundup: Buffalo isn’t done dealing, Blue Jackets will have conversations with Werenski. [Sportsnet | NHL]
  • Here’s Kyper’s latest trade board. [Sportsnet]
  • The Blue Jackets sent three draft picks to Colorado for Valeri Nichushkin, who probably won’t be happy there and they’ll hope will stay out of trouble and off IR. [NHL]
  • The Flyers send asshat Garnet Hathaway to the Panthers for some late-round picks, and retain half his salary. [NHL]

Not the Draft

  • The Capitals have tampered done a sign-and-trade for 33-goal scorer Alex Tuch, inking him to an eight-year, $84 million contract. He is 30. [TSN | NHL]
  • The Predators and Avalanche swapped a bunch of That Guys. [TSN]
  • Why…why did the Blackhawks swing so big for Bowen Bryam? [Athletic]
  • Jason Robertson reportedly declined something like eight years and $15 million AAV from the poor Kraken. [Sportsnet]
  • He also reportedly declined interest from the Blues, who offered “multiple first-round picks” if they could do a sign-and-trade. [@JeffMarek]
  • The “ins and outs” of the NHL exploring expansion in Texas. [TSN]
  • Connor McDavid says the Oilers top players all agree it’s high time they have a coach who abuses them; enter Mike Babcock. [Sportsnet]
  • The Senators have another uphill climb after having to trade Brady Tkachuk. [Sportsnet]
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2026 NHL Mock Draft

BUFFALO, NEW YORK - JUNE 25: Gavin McKenna attends the 2026 NHL Draft Top Prospects Media Availability on June 25, 2026 at the New Era Cap World Headquarters in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Ahead of tonight’s NHL draft, let’s take a stab at how the first round could play out tonight. First, a moment of silence for our near miss last year – when we tried to predict that Kyle Dubas would go ‘off the board’ with a high pick on a WHL center that no one saw coming. So close, yet so far (we had Cole Reschny as the surprise pick, the Pens ended up making the choice of Ben Kindel instead. I’d say that worked out well).

Trades have rocked the 2026 draft, which could indicate something about how many teams are valuing this draft somewhat unfavorably. Two top-10 picks have been dealt. St. Louis enters the night with a whopping four picks. San Jose has three. Six other teams have two picks, 10 teams enter the night without a first round pick at all. Ottawa received a league punishment where they were assigned the 32nd pick (and cannot trade it today). That builds up to one of the more unpredictable and turbulent drafts in recent memory, with a high probability that the fireworks continue with even more transactions of teams jockeying around.

  1. Toronto Maple Leafs – Gavin McKenna,LW, Penn State (NCAA): No surprise at the top, the Leafs add the top player and hope he will become a focal point in the years to come
  2. San Jose Sharks –  Ivar Stenberg, LW, Frolunda (SWE): Trading William Eklund solved the mystery of whether or not SJ would reach for a defenseman to help their prospect pool at No. 2, or just take the best player available. Probably wisely, the coast is now clear to have a spot in the future for Stenberg.
  3. Vancouver Canucks – Caleb Malhotra, C, Brantford (OHL): For some reason the Canucks have zeroed in on Malhotra, the sixth ranked North American skater from Central Scouting. Malhotra is considered the best center of the class but going third looks like a steep projection on draft day.
  4. Buffalo Sabres –Chase Reid, D, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL): Buffalo has their pick of the defensemen in the class and Reid looks like the right handed, blue chip prospect to one day pair beside Owen Power or Rasmus Dahlin.
  5. New York Rangers –Alberts Smits, D, Munchen (GER): Some think Smits could be the most NHL ready player in the draft as a 6’3, 210 pound defender that is rock solid and shined with Team Latvia. I think that fits what the Rangers will covet as a no-maintenance type of big player who could be a bedrock performer. With the top four picks considered somewhat set right now, the Rangers’ choice at No. 5 represents the first major split in the road for how this draft will play out.
  6. Calgary Flames –Viggo Bjorck, C, Djurgarden (SWE): The Flames get a little saucy with this one, taking the upside of a 5’9, 180 pound center in a world where players like Brayden Point and Logan Stankoven have flourished. This profile of player usually drops on draft night, but Calgary opts to believe in what they could have here.
  7. Seattle Kraken – Carson Carels, D, Prince George (WHL): Seattle has somewhat famously never selected a defenseman in the first round, but now Jason Botterill’s hands are fully on the wheel. A disciple of Ray Shero, a smooth skating, puck moving defender with upside fits the mold and needs of this franchise.
  8. Winnipeg Jets – Keaton Verhoeff, D, North Dakota (NCAA): Winnipeg is in a nice spot to draft a quality player that falls to this pick, they’re pleased to add a 6’4″ defender compared to Aaron Ekblad. Verhoeff very well could be selected a few picks prior to this, having him available at 8th would be a great development for the Jets.
  9. San Jose Sharks –Daxon Rudolph, D, Prince Albert (WHL): Given team needs (and by taking Stenberg earlier), you’d have to think the Sharks will be in a position to grab the top defender available here at No. 9, depending on who among Smits, Carels, Verhoeff and Rudolph remain. It ends up being Rudolph, who has the frame, tools and ability to be a top-4 player and is exactly what San Jose needs at this point.
  10. Nashville Predators – Tynan Lawrence, C, Boston University (NCAA): New GM Chris MacFarland gets to work by adding one of the top centers available. Lawrence had a bumpy draft year but is well-regarded as a potential future impact player.
  11. St. Louis Blues – Wyatt Cullen, LW, USA U-18 (NTDP-USHL): Matt’s boy had a recent growth spurt to 6’1 and has dynamic offensive ability. His future is very bright, the Blues are happy to grab him at this point.
  12. New Jersey Devils –Ethan Belchetz, LW, Windsor (OHL): New GM Sunny Mehta is from the Panthers’ organization, he knows the value of a 6’5″, 230 pound monster winger that has an edge. Belchetz is headed to Michigan State and could be the next version of a Porter Martone type.
  13. New York Islanders – Oliver Suvanto, C, Tappara (FIN): The Islanders have drafted well recently, Suvanto is one of the younger players in the class and already 6’3″, 213 pounds with a a strong two-way game.
  14. Columbus Blue Jackets – Malte Gustafsson, D, HV71 (SWE): A 6’4″ defender with good reach, skating and first pass ability, the Jackets keep it simple here with a solid choice at this part of the draft.
  15. St. Louis Blues – Alexander Command, C, Orebro Jr. (SWE-JR): Incoming GM Alex Steen adds a countryman with a solid center option for future depth.
  16. St. Louis Blues – Ryan Lin, D, Vancouver (WHL): Wait, are the Blues really making all these picks? We already have them down for two forwards, they spread out here to grab an offensive minded right shot defender.
  17. Los Angeles Kings – Oscar Hemming, LW, Boston College (NCAA): LA grabs a 6’4″ winger with offensive upside and a great shot.
  18. Washington Capitals – Maddox Dagenais, C, Quebec (QMJHL): The Caps can use prospect help up the middle, Dagenais brings a 6’4″ frame and good offensive ability.
  19. Utah Mammoth –Ilia Morozov, C, Miami (NCAA): The Mammoth go with a very young player and hope his game develops into his 6’3″, 205 stature.
  20. Buffalo Sabres –Adam Novotny, LW, Peterborough (OHL): The Czech player excelled in the OHL, he has a nose for the net.
  21. Philadelphia Flyers – Maksim Sokolovskii, D, London (OHL): A 6’7″, 240 pound physical, stay at home defender seems to fit the Flyers. They also tend to like London products (Oliver Bonk, Denver Barkey).
  22. Pittsburgh Penguins – JP Hurlbert, LW/C, Kamloops (WHL): I think Hulbert checks almost all the boxes for the players that the Pens tend to take early on. He can play all three forward positions, he’s been complimented for his two-way play and attention to detail away from the puck, he’s a productive WHL player. There’s always the possibility they break pattern and go with a defender or different profile this year, but as a blind guess there’s a lot that points towards Hulbert if he’s available.
  23. Boston Bruins –Nikita Klepov, RW, Saginaw (OHL): The Bruins go with a skilled forward to add to their group.
  24. Vancouver Canucks – Elton Hermansson, RW, MoDo (SWE-2): The Canucks add a second forward in the draft.
  25. Ottawa Senators – Liam Ruck, RW, Medicine Hat (WHL): The Senators go with a skill winger to be part of their future.
  26. New York Rangers – Brooks Rogowski, C, Oshawa (OHL): When I look at Rogowski, I see Brian Boyle 2.0. Chris Drury was a teammate of Boyle’s, who once scored 21 goals with the Rangers. NYR will bank on Rogowski’s peak being a little longer/higher but his 6’7″ 235 pound frame is what literally stands out.
  27. San Jose Sharks – Xavier Villeneuve, D, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL): The Sharks have enough draft capital with their third pick of the night to take a wild swing on the immense talents of Villeneuve, who comes with just as immense of a risk.
  28. Montreal Canadiens – Jack Hextall, C, Youngstown (USHL): Montreal goes with a well-rounded center choice that they’ll hope develops well.
  29. St. Louis Blues – Casey Mutryn, RW, USA U-18 (NTDP-USHL): Mutryn fits into a sort of Jimmy Snuggerud/Jake Neighbours/Dylan Holloway mold as a high-IQ, forechecking machine of a big winger.
  30. Calgary Flames – Thomas Bleyl, D, Moncton (QMJHL):: The Flames use their second choice to target the blueline and get a right shot player with offensive upside.
  31. Carolina Hurricanes – Mathis Preston, RW, Vancouver (WHL): The Hurricanes are always a strong candidate to trade back in the draft, our presumptions rule out trades so we’ll have them stick to type for a player with some dynamic offensive ability.
  32. Ottawa Senators – Tobias Trejbal, G, Youngstown (USHL): The first goalie goes off the board with the last pick. Trejbal is a 6’4″ netminder with impressive athleticism for his size.

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State of affairs: what’s going on with the Boston Celtics?

Sep 29, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens talks to reporters during media day at the Auerbach Center. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images | David Butler II-Imagn Images

The NBA Draft has come and gone, the Giannis Antetokounmpo “to trade or not to trade” question has been answered, and the Boston Celtics find themselves with just about the same roster they had when their season ended at the hands of the Philadelphia 76ers.

From Brad Stevens’ exit interview, it was clear that he was going to make some changes. “Our margin for error needs to get bigger, and at the same time, I don’t think we’re, like, way far away,” he said.

He did admit that the team has been in a similar spot before, though, and that Boston needs to level up to stay competitive and put themselves in the best position to win. Lately it’s been feeling like those changes will be a lot more drastic than anyone expected from a 56-win team that’s just two seasons removed from a championship.

Stevens wanted the team to do a better job of attacking and pressuring the rim. It was also clear that Boston’s frontcourt was not up to par in the Philly series. He recently commented about the team’s needs after night one of the NBA Draft, saying that the priorities are size and, if possible, adding someone with speed on the perimeter.

The obvious path was to use the Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception to sign either a veteran point guard or center to fill one of those needs, and then use all or part of the $27.7 million Traded Player Exception to address the other need. Brad instead was looking for a bigger swing, entering the Celtics into the Giannis sweepstakes.

By putting Jaylen Brown in trade rumors — and apparently trade offers for Giannis — it seems as though Brad has opened a can of worms. The vultures are swarming, and teams seem to think they can pry Brown away from Boston. It’s been reported by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints that JB has not formally requested a trade at this time, and Brad Stevens has reiterated that he thinks the Jays can still win a championship together, but he also didn’t commit to keeping them together.

The rumor mill has been full effect, and several notable insiders like ESPN’s Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst, The Ringer’s Zach Lowe, and Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor believe that, while Jaylen is not being offered in outgoing trades, the Celtics are at least receptive to the calls that are coming in. Windy in particular is convinced that JB has played his last game for the Celtics already, and Lowe seems to be betting on the same, while Shams has been a lot more non-committal.

It didn’t seem like something Boston wanted to reckon with this offseason given Brown’s MVP-level year. Now it’s something they’ll have to face head on. That’s also on top of the other needs which the team hasn’t been able to address yet.

So, here’s where things stand as of now:

Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Sam Hauser, Payton Pritchard, Hugo Gonzalez, Luka Garza, and Baylor Scheierman are under contract right now. The Celtics have team options on Dalano Banton, Neemias Queta, Ron Harper Jr., Jordan Walsh, Amari Williams, and Max Shulga due on June 29th. Boston also drafted Chris Cenac Jr., an athletic 6’10 F/C out of Houston, with the 27th pick, and Dillon Mitchell, a 6’8 wing out of St. John’s, with the 40th pick.

Cenac is expected to sign a standard deal, while Mitchell will likely end up on a two-way. As for the team options, Queta, Harper Jr., Walsh, and Williams are probably locks, whereas Banton and Shulga probably won’t be retained, at least on standard deals. With all of that factored in, Boston will have filled 13 of the league’s minimum 14 standard roster spots. They can bring in up to two more players on standard deals after that. Assuming Mitchell ends up on a two-way deal, they will also have two more of those to offer to other players.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 23: NBA commissioner Adam Silver shakes hands with Chris Cenac Jr. after he is drafted twenty-seventh overall by the Boston Celtics during Round One of the 2026 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 23, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Now, where does that leave the team?

The biggest thing on the agenda is to reckon with the fallout of the Jaylen trade rumors. Brad has to make a commitment one way or another. If the Celtics are serious about trading him, they shouldn’t rush a deal, but they need to know what kind of return they’re looking for.

Are there any players of his caliber in a different position of need that could be available in a swap? If you ask me, the answer is no, in part because of his $57 million salary this season. So, is there an assembly of players that you can expect back that works financially and addresses the needs? That’s another tough one. Through my perusals of the trade machine, I haven’t found anything especially compelling without a convoluted three-team deal, though I’d reckon that NBA GMs are a lot better at constructing these than I am.

So, if you don’t get a perfect assembly of players, can you at least get a litany of draft compensation along with one or two quality guys? That seems like the most straightforward path to completing a deal, but that probably doesn’t bring the Celtics any closer to contention for this upcoming season. And therein lies the crux of the issue. It’s not every day you find a Jaylen Brown in the NBA, so replacing his value can feel impossible for a team that’s trying to win now.

Ultimately, it seems as though Stevens isn’t the one shopping Brown, so it’s up to other teams to make an offer that at least captures Brad’s attention enough to reach the negotiating stage. It may be a while before that happens, which could improve the return for Boston, but complicate their overall construction.

Jake Fischer of The Stein Line seems to believe that the Celtics are not looking to move Jaylen unless it makes them better. That is likely the best course of action given that he has three years left on his deal.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MAY 02: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second quarter of a game against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game Seven of the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at TD Garden on May 02, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Let’s assume JB doesn’t get traded. What’s next?

Well, we’d still have to address the areas of concern: a reliable, veteran paint presence, and a speedy guard. The free-agent market is pretty bare in both areas. For guards, Colin Sexton and Brandon Williams might be the only notable unrestricted free agents. Marcus Smart and Jose Alvarado both have player options, and Boston could offer one of them the MLE, which could give either up to a $10 million salary bump.

There are more options at center, but still nothing to write home about. Kristaps Porzingis, Jusuf Nurkic, Mitchell Robinson, Robert Williams III, Jock Landale, and Nick Richards are a handful of the unrestricted options. Walker Kessler and Jalen Duren are restricted, and it’s unlikely that Boston will outbid either of their teams, but a sign-and-trade could be on the table, at least for Kessler if the reports about him being unhappy with the Jazz have any validity to them.

The Celtics probably won’t be able to address both of their positions of need through free agency, so once they’ve made their choice, they’ll have to think about what, or who, they’re willing to part ways with to address the other. So far, the consensus seems to be that Sam Hauser is the player that a trade will be centered around, though Jordan Walsh could also be in the mix. They also have the Simons TPE to play around with and get themselves a higher caliber, or at least more expensive player, but that’s a chip for them, not their trade partner. They may have to sweeten a deal with picks depending on who they’re pursuing.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – OCTOBER 27: Trey Murphy III #25 of the New Orleans Pelicans is defended by Sam Hauser #30 of the Boston Celtics during the third quarter of the NBA game at Smoothie King Center on October 27, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Trey Murphy III is a player who has been floated pretty frequently in these talks. He fits perfectly into the TPE, but New Orleans has always been rumored to be looking for significant draft compensation in any deal for Murphy. It’s important to note, that the TPE can be split up among multiple players. That’s created the possibility of trading for more than one quality player. Someone like Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks is an option, and would leave about $10m of the TPE to use on a second player.

The Celtics are currently $13.2 million under the tax line, and $21.2 million under the first apron. If they do elect to use the TPE and/or the full MLE, they could likely end up as a tax paying team, and will also get hard-capped at the first apron. The expectation was that they would be under the first apron regardless, but if they don’t duck the tax line, they won’t be able to reset the repeater tax. If they want to stay competitive, that’s something they’re going to have to seriously consider.

One last nugget to keep in mind: Derrick White has appeared in a few trade rumors this offseason. It’s been reported that the Celtics are not actively shopping him, but other teams were inquiring about his availability. Making $30.3 million this upcoming season, he could be Boston’s most interesting trade chip aside from Jaylen if they do want to make a drastic move. And before anyone comments — no, neither I, nor the Celtics are going to be entertaining offers for Jayson Tatum. I have no source to corroborate that, but I would bet my life savings on it. (Don’t gamble, kids.)

This is going to be an offseason of hard conversations, and even harder decisions for Boston. It’s definitely the murkiest the waters have looked since 2023, and maybe even the murkiest in the entire Jays era. Prepare your hearts. Spend time with your loved ones. Take your mind off it and enjoy your summer. Us Celtics fans have had a lot of smooth sailing lately, but the waves seem to be getting bigger. Captain Brad Stevens has the wheel, and it’s up to him to get us back to shore safe and sound.

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Cavs final report card: James Harden – Cleveland doesn’t make it to conference finals without Harden

TORONTO, CANADA - MAY 01: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers stands for the national anthem prior to Game Six against the Toronto Raptors in the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on May 01, 2026 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. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) | Getty Images

James Harden is an easy punching bag for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The flaws in his game are pretty obvious, and his teams have yet to come through on the biggest stages throughout his 17-year career. Throw in that he was traded to Cleveland in exchange for a home-grown All-Star that’s 10 years younger, and it’s easy to see why the sentiment is what it is.

That said, the Cavs don’t make it to the Eastern Conference Finals this past season without Harden. In fact, they don’t advance out of the first round without trading for him. Despite the flaws in Harden’s game, he consistently elevated the play of the group. That shouldn’t be lost in any of the discussions about his performance.

Regular Season Stats

  • 23.6 points
  • 8 assists
  • 4.8 rebounds
  • 43.4% FG
  • 37.5% 3PT FG
  • 88.4% FT

Koby Altman mentioned in February that they traded for Harden to help in the postseason. He certainly did that.

The Cavs were 12.7 points per 100 possessions better with Harden on the court in the playoffs than they were when he was off. That was the highest mark on the team. This was because he blended well with the starters while still carrying hybrid bench lineups when both Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley were off the floor.

Figuring out how to survive the minutes without Mitchell was a problem all regular season and has hurt the Cavs in previous postseason runs. Being able to stabilize those minutes was incredibly useful and allowed the team to get as far as they did in the postseason.

The Cavs don’t make it past either the Toronto Raptors or Detroit Pistons if it weren’t for Harden. His ability to get to the line and continually get the bigs involved kept a Cleveland offense on schedule that often became too reliant on the three-ball. This led to the Cavs winning the minutes he played in 10 of the 14 games he played in the first two rounds.

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Things didn’t work out nearly as well against the New York Knicks. Jalen Brunson hunted mismatches against him down the stretch of Game 1 when the Cavs squandered a 22-point lead in the final frame. Most of that was good shot-making, but it also highlighted the weaknesses in Harden’s game.

The Cavs aren’t the undersized backcourt they were with Darius Garland alongside Mitchell. Harden’s size (6’5″) and strength mean that you can’t just shoot over him. But if you force him to defend in space without help around him, he’s going to be exposed. The same could be said for Mitchell.

This team needs Harden’s playmaking and ability to get the bigs involved because these are things Mitchell struggles with. At the same time, having both members of the starting backcourt as defensive targets puts a cap on how good you can defend against elite competition, even if you have three good defenders behind them.

Harden and Mitchell aren’t going to magically become better defenders at this point in their careers. Maybe there are things the Cavs can do from a scheme perspective to keep either from being targeted as much, but the cleanest path forward is just figuring out how to make the offense work better.

The pairing between Harden and Mitchell got off to a good start in the regular season — particularly late in games — but the chemistry didn’t carry over as much as you’d hope it would in the playoffs. It often turned into “your turn, my turn” with isolation attacks.

Harden and Mitchell were both in the top 10 for isolation possessions per game in the playoffs. They were both pretty good at this, with Mitchell scoring one point per isolation possession and Harden averaging 0.99. However, if your overall offense is that isolation-heavy, things can become stagnant quickly.

Turnovers were an issue for Harden. He deserves the blame for those giveaways, but it’s fair to point out that these were also the byproduct of a stagnant offense that didn’t have a cohesive plan of attack.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson drastically remade Cleveland’s offense over the final few months of the season. He did away with his preferred motion-based offense for a more stationary, spaced-out isolation attack to fit his best two players. However, they never quite found a way to maximize that approach.

More often than not, Cleveland’s role players would find themselves cutting into traffic when they should’ve stayed stationary, and staying stationary when they needed to cut. The floor balance wasn’t what it needed to be in order to make this work.

That’s excusable given the fact that Atkinson was trying to build the plane while flying it. Those same excuses won’t be there next season. The Cavs need to figure out how they want to play offensively and surround Harden and Mitchell with guys who can fit that mold.

Adjusting to a new team that late in the season is difficult. Harden handled the change well and helped elevate this core to heights they’ve never reached before. That’s exactly what he was brought in to do. From that perspective, it was a successful season for Harden.

At the same time, it’s fair to wonder how much higher the ceiling is for a Harden-led Cavs. Can Harden and Mitchell complement each other better offensively than they did in the playoffs? Will the defense be able to thrive with two below-average defenders on the perimeter? The answer to both questions will determine whether this core can take the next step forward.

Grade: A-

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The Wizards will introduce Felix Okpara at the Rubell Museum today

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 14: Felix Okpara shoots a free throw during the game during the 2026 NBA Draft Combine on May 14, 2026 at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

On Thursday, the Washington Wizards introduced AJ Dybantsa in a major press conference. Today, they will introduce their second round draft pick, Felix Okpara at a ceremony this afternoon at the Rubell Museum at Navy Yard. The time of the ceremony is at 12 p.m. ET. Kevin Broom wrote about Okpara on Wednesday which you can access here.

With the Wizards moving past a traditional rebuilding direction, I’m pretty excited to see what Wizards General Manager Will Dawkins and Okpara have to say. Over the past three seasons, the Wizards have looked to acquire multiple draft picks and play them significantly. In the 2026 draft however, the Wizards have only acquired two players, Dybantsa and Okpara.

Because of the press conference, the museum will be closed until 2 p.m. ET for general visitors. We’ll have a link to the press conference, if available below.

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Serena Williams faces Maya Joint in Wimbledon opener as Draper and Raducanu dealt tough draw

  • Draper to play sixth seed Taylor Fritz in first match

  • Ostapenko and Sabalenka drawn in Raducanu’s quarter

Serena Williams will face Australia’s Maja Joint at Wimbledon in her long-awaited return to singles competition after four years of retirement, a match between two players born nearly 25 years apart.

Joint, a talented 20-year-old who won Eastbourne last year, has struggled badly this year, compiling a 3-15 record. The winner of their first round match could face the in-form Filipino 25th seed, Alexandra Eala.

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USA TODAY Sports unveils 2026 'Starting 9' high school baseball lineup

The high school baseball landscape across the country has been elite, to say the least.

In a perfect world, one might ask: in a winner-take-all state title contest, who and how would we craft a lineup featuring players from across the country?

The USA TODAY Sports Starting 9 following the 2026 high school baseball season.

For this list, we've crafted a roster of 20 seniors. The breakdown of the roster is as follows:

  • Pitchers (6)
  • Catchers (3)
  • Infielders (6)
  • Outfielders (5)

Here's the USA TODAY Sports Starting 9, along with a coaching staff we'd build below in a hypothetical state title game.

Eric Booth Jr., Oak Grove (Miss.) OF

Oak Grove player Eric Booth Jr. (3) hits the ball during the game against Northwest Rankin in Flowood, Miss., on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Booth is the top prep outfielder available in this year's MLB Draft, and will be a contributor right away in pro ball for whichever organization he's in. With Oak Grove this season, Booth hit .481 with 20 extra-base hits, 31 RBI and 55 runs scored. He walked 45 times and swiped 23 bases, making him the ideal leadoff hitter in this hypothetical state title game.

Carson Bolemon, Southside Christian (S.C.) LHP

Southside Christian Sabres Carson Bolemon (6) looks down field Wednesday, May 20, 2026 during the SCHSL Upper State 3A baseball championship game against the Chapman Panthers at Southside Christian High School in Simpsonville, South Carolina.

Bolemon was nearly unhittable this season for the Sabres, pitching to a 0.17 ERA over 41 1/3 innings pitched, allowing just one earned run. Over that span, he allowed just 11 hits and 13 walks while striking out 91 batters. Expect Bolemon to be a likely first-round pick, considering the emphasis clubs place on prep left-handed pitchers on a yearly basis.

Coleman Borthwick, South Walton (Fla.) RHP

South Walton starting pitcher Coleman Borthwick delivers to the plate during the Niceville South Walton baseball game at Niceville.

Borthwick is a big fella at 6-foot-6, 255 pounds, but he can sling it from the right side with a fastball that has been awfully close to hitting triple digits. With South Walton this spring, Borthwick pitched to a 0.21 ERA, allowing just 18 hits and 7 walks over 65 2/3 innings, striking out 121 in that stretch. Borthwick could see himself break into the first round, but picks 31-40 seem a lot more likely should he choose to forgo his Auburn commitment.

Blake Bowen, JSerra (Calif.) OF

Bowen's a prime DH candidate in this starting lineup at 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, with a power grade of 60 by MLB.com. Bowen also played football for JSerra and has plenty of athleticism to make things happen in the outfield in his pro career. At the MLB Combine, he registered 15 hits that had an exit velo north of 100 MPH.

Will Brick, Christian Brothers (Tenn.) C

CBHS’ Will Brick prepares to swing against Briarcrest’s Phinn Beaird during a baseball game on April 13, 2026 at Christian Brothers High School in Memphis, Tenn.

Brick gets the start at catcher on this roster, hitting .517 with 10 extra-base hits for Christian Brothers this season. Originally part of the 2027 class, Brick decided to reclassify after a highly successful stint with Team USA's 18U team, which competed in Japan in October, where he hit .333 while playing strong defense behind the dish. While the bat is a work in progress, many believe his defensive skills will translate to the next level.

Brody Bumila, Bishop Feehan (Mass.) LHP

Bishop Feehan senior Brody Bumila gets ready to throw a pitch at Polar Park during the Division 1 state championship game on June 13, 2026.

While Bumila wouldn't start this game, he's an elite lefty who is poised to make the big leagues at some point in his career. His fastball has reached triple digits and features a lot of inverted vertical break, making life tough for hitters. At 6-foot-9, the arm slot is especially tough.

Trevor Condon, Etowah (Ga.) OF

The younger brother of former Georgia star and Colorado Rockies outfielder Charlie Condon, Condon had a stellar senior year for Etowah, hitting .504 with nine home runs, 42 RBI and 17 doubles in 36 games. His decision-making at the plate is strong despite being a teenager, making him a long-term player in many organizations that value that in their philosophies. With elite speed as well, expect Condon to make an impact on this squad.

Sean Dunlap, Crown Point (Ind.) C

Dunlap has largely been a consistent player behind the plate for Crown Point, and is very fast despite the toll catching takes on the knees. The 6-foot-3, 205-pounder hit .473 with nine home runs, three doubles, 11 doubles, and 45 runs batted in, adding 32 runs scored and with just six strikeouts over 112 plate appearances.

Grady Emerson, Fort Worth Christian (Texas) INF

Grady Emerson named Gatorade National Baseball Player of the Year

Expected to be a top-three pick in this year's draft, Emerson's set to become the next big shortstop to come out of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Following the footsteps of Bobby Witt Jr., Emerson grades out near the top in hitting, power, running, arm and fielding, making him a franchise player for whoever drafts him.

Jared Grindlinger, Huntington Beach (Calif.) OF/LHP

Grindlinger's likely to go pro as a left-handed arm, but we're going to start him in left field. In a Huntington Beach uniform this year, Grindlinger hit .376 with a team-high 41 hits, adding 14 extra-base hits and 22 RBI, striking out twice in 125 plate appearances.

Jacob Lombard, Gulliver Prep (Fla.) INF

Gulliver Prep shortstop Jacob Lombard (left) and Barron Collier coach Adam Johnson (right) pose for a picture before their game against one another on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.

The younger brother of Yankees prospect George Lombard Jr., Jacob Lombard is primed to be even better than his big brother. With Gulliver this year, Lombard batted .477 with 10 home runs and 25 RBI, leading the way with 42 hits and 52 runs scored. His 1.471 OPS led the team, and he will be a likely top-five pick in this year's MLB Draft.

Bo Lowrance, Christ Church Episcopal (S.C.) INF

Christ Church baseball's Bo Lowrance is expected to be picked high in the 2026 Major League Baseball draft.

Lowrance's 6-foot-5 frame, at least on this team, makes him a likely first baseman despite primarily playing third. He has a solid left-handed bat at the plate and will be able to make an impact in pro ball. Whether or not he forgoes his Virginia commitment remains to be seen.

Taj Marchand, James Island (S.C.) INF

James Island Trojans Taj Marchand (6) fields a ground ball Saturday, May 30, 2026 during the SCHSL 5A D1 baseball state championship series game against the Dorman Cavaliers at River Bluff High School in Lexington, South Carolina.

If you want all-around tools and defensive value, Marchand's your guy. His arm is elite, along with his bat, making him a second-round prospect with clear potential to make a splash. While he may not start on this squad with Emerson, Lombard, and others in the infield, it does not take away from the fact that he starts on virtually any other squad.

Cole Prosek, Magnolia Heights (Miss.) C/INF

Prosek simply couldn't be stopped this season for Magnolia Heights, hitting .585 (76-130) with 18 home runs, 19 doubles, a pair of triples and 79 RBI with 62 runs scored. He added 31 walks and had a 1.855 OPS against Mississippi competition. While he is currently a primary third baseman, Prosek could project as a catcher in pro ball and make this roster as one of three catchers.

Gio Rojas, Stoneman Douglas (Fla.) LHP

Stoneman Douglas pitcher Gio Rojas throws against St. John Neumann on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.

Rojas gets the nod as the starting pitcher in this theoretical state title game, and is the top left-handed arm on many draft boards. The Stoneman Douglas product transferred from the Denver area after his freshman year, helping the Eagles win three straight state titles. In a Stoneman uniform, Rojas was 28-1 with a 0.65 ERA with 285 strikeouts over 162 innings, allowing 73 hits and 36 walks against elite competition in South Florida.

Aiden Ruiz, The Stony Brook (N.Y.) INF

Ruiz is a fascinating prospect because he's a switch-hitter and an ambidextrous thrower, making him exclusive on this roster in that regard. His defense is the best on this team, grading out with a 70 in the field and a 60 arm. With Team USA's 18U team, his defense forced Grady Emerson over to third base, something we're replicating here. His speed and fielding are too good to keep on the bench.

Logan Schmidt, Ganesha (Calif.) LHP

Schmidt's young for his age here at 17 years old by the time the Draft rolls around, but that doesn't mean he isn't up there with Rojas and Bolemon in terms of quality. The California product can attack the zone but still has some room to grow, making him a secondary option out of the bullpen if need be.

Landon Thome, Nazereth Academy (Ill.) INF

The son of Hall of Famer Jim Thome, Landon Thome has an impressive bat from the left-hand side with exit velos in the high 90s and low 100s. With his power, much like his dad had with the Indians, Phillies, and White Sox, among others, Landon could see that it would come with maturity and a bigger build beyond the 6-foot, 177-pound frame he's currently in.

Kaden Waechter, Jesuit (Fla.) RHP

Kaden Waechter, another son of a former big leaguer (Doug Waechter), has starred for Jesuit since his sophomore year, making him a well-known product in the high school space. Waechter has delivered and then some for Jesuit over the years, pitching to a 13-5 record with a 1.01 ERA, striking out 135 over 104 1/3 innings. Over that stretch, his WHIP sits below 1.00, as he also generates ground ball and fly ball outs.

Noah Wilson, McCallie (Tenn.) OF

With McCallie, Wilson hit .385 as a senior with 45 hits, 17 extra-base hits, and 41 runs scored to go along with 23 stolen bases. Not many teams wanted to pitch to the prospect, as he walked 33 times as well. While he may not start on this team, he very well could come off the bench in a pinch-hit or pinch-running role, depending on the situation.

COACHES

Manager: Todd Fitz-Gerald, Stoneman Douglas (Fla.)

Fitz-Gerald's been around some elite prospects over the years, and joins this staff alongside his palyer Gio Rojas. The Stoneman Douglas coach has built a national dynasty in South Florida, winning six consecutive state titles in Florida's toughest classification. The Eagles defeated then-national No. 1 Venice 2-1 in the Class 7A title game behind a masterful effort from Rojas.

Assistant Coach: Rick Arnold, Trinity (Ky.)

Arnold's Trinity Shamrocks were deemed the MaxPreps and Perfect Game National Champions after a 41-3 season that concluded with a KHSAA Championship. Trinity scored 411 runs in 44 games and conceded just 85 runs.

Assistant Coach: Jared Halpert, Harvard-Westlake (Calif.)

One of two coaches from the Golden State on this staff, Halpert has been at the school for over a decade, churning out consistent results in the nation's largest state. The Wolverines went 26-6 this year and were the second best squad in California behind St. John Bosco.

Assistant Coach: Andy Rojo, St. John Bosco (Calif.)

Speaking of the Braves, Rojo's Bosco team was the best in California this year, going 27-6 with a CIF Southern Section Division I title over Norco. The Braves have eclipsed 20 wins in each of Rojo's first three seasons with the program.

Assistant Coach: Doug Rush, Tomball (Texas)

Rush and Tomball were virtually unstoppable all season long, going 44-1 with a UIL 6A DII State Championship, beating Houston Memorial 9-1. The Cougars conceded just 79 runs over 45 games, and scored 328 during that span.

Follow Sports Reporter Alex Martin on X at @NP_AlexMartin or via email: amartin@usatodayco.com. For additional high school sports coverage, be sure to follow @usatodayhss on Instagram and X.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USA TODAY Sports unveils 2026 'Starting 9' high school baseball lineup

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NHL Mock Draft: Flyers Projected to Make Massive Choice… Literally

In recent drafts, the Philadelphia Flyers have gone out of their way to draft big, strong, physical players to add to their prospect pool, and the 2026 NHL Draft is looking to be no different.

The Flyers, of course, could truly end up choosing anyone when they are first on the clock at Pick 21, whether it be a winger, a defenseman, or another center.

Not all of these prospects are cut equal, especially at the defense position, and that could cause some variance at the back of the draft order.

For example, The Athletic NHL prospect expert Scott Wheeler released his final NHL mock draft of the year, and he has the Flyers taking a big swing on defense... literally.

While not everyone may agree with the valuation, including Wheeler himself, the Flyers select defenseman Maksim Sokolovskii in the first round in this mock draft.

Sokolovskii is a 6-foot-8 defenseman who plays for the London Knights (shocker!), and he is widely regarded as the meanest player in the entire draft class.

"Sokolovskii’s name has been one of the most hotly discussed among NHL scouts over the past few months, and I expect he’ll be selected in the 20s now. He’s the biggest player in this class, he might be its most naturally aggressive and he can move. Those three things made him a source of intrigue for the scouts this year," Wheeler wrote.

Flyers Linked to Top Swedish Winger Prospect Ahead of 2026 NHL DraftFlyers Linked to Top Swedish Winger Prospect Ahead of 2026 NHL DraftThe Philadelphia Flyers could be targeting one of the purest talents in the 2026 NHL Draft.

"His steep development curve in the second half of this season sold the league on his prospects as the next Nikita Zadorov type, and the trust in the London Knights to get him there (coincidentally, they also developed Zadorov) is another confidence booster. I believe the Flyers are the start of his range."

The Flyers have made it no secret that they would like to get bigger and stronger on defense, and have admitted that the left side of their defense, where Sokolovskii plays, is far weaker than the right.

Passing, puck skills, and decision-making will be question marks for Sokolovskii, but the Kazakh rearguard is undeniably a punishing defender who can do it all in his own zone.

For myself, Sokolovskii is a harder sell due to the simple fact that I believe it to be easier to teach players to defend (Xavier Villeneuve) rather than to teach them how to pass, handle the puck, and make smart choices under pressure.

At the same time, Sokolovskii's size can't be taught either, and that makes him a true unicorn in the 2026 draft class.

Remember, just two years ago in 2024, Anton Silayev was expected to be a top-five pick, slid a little, and still went 10th overall to New Jersey.

Right or wrong, teams cover those players, and the Flyers understandably accept that risk in this latest mock draft.

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Yankees news: MLB drops bombshell CBA terms

CBS Sports | Dayn Perry: I’m sure you’ve heard by now MLB’s latest offer in ongoing CBA talks. The league proposes caps on free agent contracts, “hometown” or a Bird Rule-esque advantage for teams to retain their own players by adding an additional year to those capped contracts, and setting a slightly higher MLB minimum salary for players with two years of service. In short, well…

Interim head of the MLBPA Bruce Meyer went on to say that he’s never seen the membership or their agents quite so united before. This is going to drag out a while.

New York Daily News | Mike Lupica: Yesterday was Cam Bump Day, and while as of writing I do not yet know how it turned out, if I were to bet I’d bet on it going well. (Editor’s note: mixed bag.) Cam Schlittler seemingly stands alone atop the AL Cy Young race at the halfway mark of the season, and perhaps the best part of it all is how good he has been against the Yankees’ storied rivals in Boston. In his two previous starts against the Red Sox this year he’s spun a 1.32 ERA and that’s not even counting his near-legendary Wild Card performance last October. That’s how you build yourself into a cornerstone of a franchise, which Cam seemingly is on his way to doing.

New York Post | Greg Joyce: Poor Ryan McMahon. For about two weeks the Yankee third baseman felt sicker and sicker, to the point where he had difficulty eating much of anything. He was finally able to see an ears, nose and throat specialist during the Yankees’ time in Detroit, finally diagnosed with a peritonsillar abscess that required immediate lancing and draining and boy pictures online of this thing look gross! I’m sure Mac’s feeling better already.

New York Daily News | Gary Phillips: We return to the Daily News to examine the case for trading for Tigers lefty Tarik Skubal. You all know the resume, and you all know he’s a free agent at the end of the year. With Detroit struggling to assert itself in a bad division, there’s been more and more smoke that the club may trade their ace in July. I’m not necessarily on board with the idea, but that’s a phone call you take if nothing else.

And in the last news of the morning, the Yankees sent catcher J.C. Escarra back down to Triple-A following the loss to Boston. This would seem to indicate that Ali Sánchez will return from the paternity list in advance of tonight’s game.

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Ronny Mauricio’s latest Mets shot is here after Marcus Siemien goes on 10-day IL

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Ronny Mauricio rips an RBI double in the fourth inning of the Mets' 4-3 loss to the Cubs in 10 innings on June 25, 2026 at Citi Field

Opportunity knocks again for one Mets infielder.

When Marcus Semien hit the 10-day IL with a left hip flexor strain Thursday, Ronny Mauricio was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse.

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Mauricio, who went 1-for-5 in the Mets’ 4-3 loss to the Cubs in 10 innings at Citi Field, has been up and down with the big league club for his entire career.

He missed all of 2024 with a knee injury that required multiple surgeries to fix.

He fractured his thumb in May and is just now back with the Mets. In the times between those injuries, he’s struggled to remain consistent at the plate, posting a .662 OPS in 61 games since 2025.

Mauricio is hitting .216 for the Mets this season.

Mauricio’s thumb fracture prevented him from seizing an opportunity when Francisco Lindor was sidelined with a calf strain in late April.

Now, he’s got another chance, as the revolving door of healthy infielders continues. Semien’s trip to the IL comes just one day after Lindor returned. The team is still without Jorge Polanco for the foreseeable future due to Achilles bursitis.

“Overall, I thought the at-bats were OK, especially from the right side,” manager Carlos Mendoza said of Mauricio’s return. “First game back, after being out for quite a bit … as far as that, I thought it was OK.”

Ronny Mauricio rips an RBI double in the fourth inning of the Mets’ 4-3 loss to the Cubs in 10 innings on June 25, 2026 at Citi Field. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Mauricio recorded a double and a strikeout in the loss. He also committed an error on a throw to first in the sixth inning.

There was one big shot to leave a mark Thursday for Mauricio. He came up in the bottom of the ninth with two on and two outs. A walk-off could’ve given him a moment to remember.

But he grounded out, and the game went to extra innings. In the 10th, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s double sent automatic runner Matt Shaw home and gave the Cubs the lead.

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The Mets couldn’t score in the bottom of the 10th and were swept away, dropping their sixth straight.

It’s likely not Mauricio’s only shot in the coming days, considering Mendoza called Semien “week to week” before Thursday’s loss.

Mauricio hopes this stint can be a turnaround to a big league career that has thus far been disappointing, despite some glimpses of promise.

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Rain stopped play? Biggest worry now in British sport is extreme heat | Emma John

Climate crisis is on show every day when sportspeople do their thing and the rest of us sweat on the sofa

Nothing sharpens the distinction between professional athletes and the rest of us like a week of truly hot weather. While we’re apologetically crying off long‑in‑the-diary engagements – so sorry, just can’t face it in this weather – elite sportspeople are blinking the rivulets of sweat out of their eyes while squinting under a hot and heavy helmet, then doing 22-yard sprints with a couple of kilos of padding strapped to their legs.

As one of nature’s non-athletes, I speak not only with admiration but with genuine wonder. My experience of the past week has been working out how not to do things, or, if forced, doing them half‑heartedly because, you know, I haven’t slept. My friends and I message each other the latest innovations in fan strategy (“Apparently putting a frozen bottle of water in front of it helps”) and talk about our journeys on public transport as if we’ve just survived the Somme.

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White Sox Minor League Update: June 24, 2026

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 21: George Wolkow #24 of the Chicago White Sox celebrates with Javier Mogollon #90 after hitting a solo home run in the eighth inning during the game between the Chicago White Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Camelback Ranch on Saturday, March 21, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
George Wolkow mashed two home runs in Winston-Salem’s 14-9 victory over Hub City. | (Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Charlotte Knights 7, Rochester Red Wings 6 (11 innings)
Jonathan Cannon had a rough four-inning start that included three unearned runs of the six scored, but the Knights (44-34) were able to claw back and walk-off the Red Wings (46-30) in extras, 7-6. Cannon made his 10th start and ended up allowing eight hits, and the unearned runs were attributed to a fielding error from Andy Weber. The righty also struggled with control by hitting a batter, tossing a wild pitch, walking three, and striking out four in comparison, but it didn’t outweigh the damage.

Dominance out of the Knights bullpen helped pave the way for Charlotte batters to stage the comeback. Caden Connor was the sole Knight with more than one RBI, driving in the two tying runs with a two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth. Korey Lee accounted for the the other two extra-base hits with a double and a homer, but Andy Weber ended up (mostly) redeeming himself from his previous error to walk it off and end the game … on an error from the second baseman, 7-6. Really, the second baseman probably should have made the play, but Lee was hoofing it the whole way and beat was still able to beat the throw.

Righthander Ben Peoples managed both of the extra frames, and was perfect while striking out two and earning his fifth win. Peoples has been excellent and has posted a 2.45 ERA in 28 appearances and 36 2/3 innings, but his walk rate could use a lot of work, hanging over 10% for this season which isn’t sustainable even with his increased 28.4% strikeout rate. Peoples could be another pitching prospect that we see rise to the bigs this season, but it’s unclear if that will be anytime soon.

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Knoxville Smokies 5, Birmingham Barons 1
Lefthander Lucas Gordon tossed for six solid innings and allowed two runs on four hits, a home run, and struck out eight in the process, ultimately receiving his fourth loss of the season as the Barons (26-46) dropped their sixth straight today with the 5-1 loss to the Smokies (41-31). The Birmingham bats only had two fewer hits that Knoxville, 7-5, but they fumbled all of their chances to score runs by going 0-for-4 with runners in scoring position and leaving six on base.

Overall, the defense as a whole was having a bad day. Caleb Bonemer committed three errors at short, and the two relievers out of the Barons bullpen – Jackson Kelley and Morris Austin – each gave up at least one run. To be fiar, the Barons weren’t capable of scoring runs anyways, it didn’t end up making a difference. For the sole Birmingham run, third baseman Alec Briley mashed a solo shot to avoid the shutout, but the offense was otherwise flat. On to the next one.

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Winston-Salem Dash 14, Hub City Spartanburgers 9
Winston-Salem had actually blown a five-run lead after giving up four runs to the Spartanburgers (36-36) in the third and fourth innings, but a six-run offensive explosion in the ninth led the Dash (41-31) to victory, 14-9. Not only did Winston-Salem put up 10 hits as a team, six of them were for extra bases and they also walked 13 times. Somehow even with scoring 14, they went just 2-for-12 with runners in scoring position and ended up leaving 11 on base; not a great day for Hub City pitchers, but I’m not complaining.

Alex Ungar and George Wolkow combined to go 3-for-9, scoring three times and driving in nine: five from Ungar that included a grand slam in the ninth, and four from Wolkow, who mashed two homers on the night. Aside from these standouts, James Taussig and Ryan Burrowes also rounded up two hits with the latter scoring three times.

Righthander Max Banks gave up two earned (four total) in his 2 2/3 inning start, allowing the Spartanburgers to catch up and then take the lead in the fourth as Drew Conover ended up with a blown save before he was bailed out by the hot bats and the final three pitchers out of the Dash bullpen. Winston-Salem pushed through Jake Bockenstedt’s five walks, and righthander Madison Jeffrey wound up with his first win of the season.

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Columbia Fireflies 7, Kannapolis Cannon Ballers 3
The Cannon Ballers (35-37) are now riding a three-game losing streak after losing to the Fireflies (37-35), 7-3. Offensively, Kannapolis got rocked and were outhit, 11-3, but a pair of errors from Columbia helped the Ballers avoid the shutout. With ample chances, they went 0-for-10 with runners in scoring position while leaving six on base. Jaden Fauske posted two of the three Kanny hits, and Matthew Boughton ripped a double for the third, both players scoring once.

Truman Pauley made his 14th start of the season, ultimately giving three (two earned) on six hits, two walks, and six strikeouts, but it’s been a rough year for him as this wound up being his seventh loss. The remainder of the bullpen wasn’t much to write home about, either. Anthony Patterson III acted as the long reliever, but immediately got into trouble in the sixth and gave up three, but was otherwise solid for his final two innings despite the lack of offense.

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ACL White Sox 12, ACL D-backs 1 (7 innings)
It was great to see the ACL Sox (12-27) offense explode against the D-backs (21-19) Thursday, with a nine-run third frame as the main difference in the win for the Sox, 12-1. Jose Mendoza mashed a two-run shot in the second, and the bats popped off the next inning to give more than enough run support for the pitching staff to hang on and win the game. The third frame consisted of: four base hits, a double, four walks, two errors, a hit batter, and a wild pitch. Ouch, but thank you to the ACL D-backs for the morale booster. The Good Guys needed just two pitchers to get through the game, with righthander Justin Fuson earning his first win of the season while allowing just three hits and striking out five.

DSL Arizona Red 10, DSL White Sox 8 (7 innings)
Unfortunately the DSL White Sox (5-13) took another one on the chin, getting outhit, 8-4, by the DSL Arizona Red team (12-7) and losing, 10-8, despite going 3-for-5 with runners in scoring in scoring position. The Sox manufactured as many runs as the did by walking eight times, which was two more than they struck out (six), but the AZ Red squad went 4-for-12 with runners in scoring position. Both teams’ starters allowed six runs, but the Alexander De Los Santos surrendered four in his 2 2/3 frames and ended up with his second loss of the season.