Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd talked about his team's ascent to No. 1 in the AP Top 25 men's college basketball poll this week, pointing out that playing on big stages with a big target on your back is why his guys wanted to play for the Wildcats. Already with four ranked wins amid their 8-0 start, the Wildcats are headed next to Birmingham, Alabama, for what amounts to a road game against No. 12 Alabama on a court that will be neutral in name only for the C.M. Newton Classic. “There's a lot of really, really good teams,” Lloyd said after routing Auburn last weekend, ticking off No. 2 Michigan, third-ranked Duke, a UConn team his Wildcats have beaten already, and No. 25 UCLA, which also fell to Arizona earlier this season.
Canucks Can't Solve Gibson, Fall 4-0 To The Red Wings
The Vancouver Canucks suffered their second shutout of the season as they fell 4-0 to the Detroit Red Wings. Kevin Lankinen stopped 10 of the 13 shots he faced through two periods, before being pulled to start the third. As for Nikita Tolopilo, he looked solid in the final frame, stopping all six shots he faced.
John Gibson was the story of the night as he stopped all 39 shots he faced. The Red Wings' goaltender was impressive throughout, but really stepped up in the third as he stopped all 17 shots he faced. Gibson has dominated the Canucks throughout his career, and now improves to 14-5-2 with four shutouts in 22 games.
Monday was yet another in a long list of frustrating games for Vancouver. They won the puck possession battle, yet could not find a way to make their scoring chances count. Post-game, Quinn Hughes spoke about some of the plays that led directly to goals.
"I feel like they have breakdowns too," said Hughes. Ours were definitely significant tonight. I mean, our goalies have been really good, kept us in a lot of games, but just something we have to continue working on."
As mentioned, the Canucks elected to pull Lankinen at the end of the second. This was the first time Lankinen has been pulled this season in what was his 17th game of the year. Post-game, Head Coach Adam Foote spoke on the decision while also touching on Lankinen's overall play as of late.
"I thought he was a little off, even though we did have mistakes, said Foote. "The one where we double up. He had the tip guy alone. Thought it also would give the guys a little bit of a spark, as they go on in the third. Lanks has been a good pro, and sometimes it's just not your night. And it wasn't all on him. He was left alone a couple of times, but just see if we get the guys going.
Foote also gave a few injury updates post-game. When asked about center Elias Pettersson, he said, "I know he felt better today, which is a good sign. I'll know more in the next couple of days. As far as the time frame, I don't want to touch on that yet."
As for Thatcher Demko, his return could be sooner rather than later. While Foote would not give a guarantee, he did indicate that the plan is to play Demko on Thursday. Demko has been out since November 11 with a lower-body injury.
Lastly, Vancouver's home record dropped to 4-9-1 with today's loss. Just like the players, fans are tired of the losses, and it showed on Monday as there were many open seats after puck drop. When asked about the home record, DeBrusk spoke about how the troubles at Rogers Arena are something the team has discussed.
"Our record isn't great in general, said DeBrusk. "We obviously want to be there at home. I think we talked about it a lot, and we need to make this a harder place to play in general, and give some of the fans something to cheer about. They pay a lot of money, and it's never good putting up a goose egg.
Monday's game was a good representation of the Canucks season to this point. Vancouver generated scoring chances, but defensive mistakes ended up costing them a win. As mentioned, it was another frustrating result that resulted in fans leaving Rogers Arena before the final whistle.
Stats and Facts:
- Canucks are shutout by the Red Wings for the ninth time in franchise history
- Kiefer Sherwood recorded his first 10 hit game of the season
- Drew O'Connor went seven for nine in the faceoff dot
- Vancouver's 39 shots are their second-highest total this year
Scoring Summary:
1st Period:
14:14- DET: James van Riemsdyk (7) from J.T. Compher and Michael Rasmussen
2nd Period:
15:15- DET: Andrew Copp (3) from Axel Sandin-Pellikka and Alex DeBrincat
15:52- DET: Nate Danielson (2) from Axel Sandin-Pellikka and Marco Kasper
3rd Period:
15:29- DET: Dylan Larkin (16) from Lucas Raymond (ENG)
Up Next:
The Canucks wrap up their four-game home stand on Thursday against the Buffalo Sabres. Vancouver and Buffalo are in similar positions this year as they both sit near the bottom of the standings. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 pm PT.
Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.
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Mets interested in Freddy Peralta, who Brewers are open for business on: report
The Mets have shown interest in Brewers starter Freddy Peralta as they look to revamp their rotation this offseason.
Milwaukee is said to be open for business on the right-hander if a team is willing to meet their steep asking price, according to Joel Sherman of the NY Post.
Unsurprisingly, interest has been wide, as he is owed just $8 million for this season.
Peralta has been one of the best pitchers in baseball since making the move from more of a relief option to the Brewers' starting rotation during the 2021 season.
He is coming off a spectacular campaign in which he topped numerous career marks.
The right-hander finished fifth in NL Cy Young voting after posting a league-high 17 wins, a 2.70 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and 204 strikeouts over 176.2 innings of work.
That marked the third straight season in which he topped 30 starts and the 165-inning mark.
It's unclear exactly what the Brewers may want in exchange for Peralta, but it's fair to believe they would look to add one of New York's highly thought of young starters -- Brandon Sproat or Jonah Tong -- as part of a deal.
According to Sherman, the Mets have also checked in with Milwaukee about late-inning reliever Trevor Megill.
Notre Dame’s Love, Indiana’s Mendoza, Vanderbilt’s Pavia, Ohio State’s Sayin named Heisman finalists
The Heisman Trophy Trust announced the four finalists Monday night who are invited to New York for the award presentation Saturday night.
John Gibson Makes 39 Saves, Picks Up First Red Wings Shutout In 4-0 Win Over Canucks
This is the kind of goaltending the Detroit Red Wings were envisioning when they acquired John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks during the offseason.
Gibson turned back the clock and delivered a vintage performance, his best since joining the Red Wings, by making 39 saves and earning his first shutout of the season over the Vancouver Canucks on Monday evening.
Gibson held the fort down for Detroit, who were often hemmed in their own zone for much of the opening 20 minutes of play with several key saves. He would continue his mastery in the second period, continuing to keep the Canucks off the scoreboard while his teammates took care of the rest.
James van Riemsdyk broke a scoreless tie late in the first period with his fourth goal in as many games, the most consecutive games in which he's scored in his NHL career.
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Detroit would strike twice more in the second period, as Andrew Copp tallied his second goal in as many games by capitalizing on a beautiful four-way passing play that also saw Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Alex DeBrincat, and Patrick Kane touch the puck.
Less than a minute later, rookie Nate Danielson deflected a shot past goaltender Kevin Lankinen, increasing Detroit's lead to 3-0 and giving him his second career goal.
Gibson continued to turn aside everything the Canucks threw at him in the third period, and it would be Dylan Larkin who sealed the victory with an empty net tally.
Gibson finished with 39 saves, earning his first shutout since Jan. 4,2023 against the Dallas Stars while still a member of the Anaheim Ducks.
Canucks goaltender Kevin Lankinen was chased from the net after the second period after allowing three goals on 13 shots against; he was replaced for the third period by Nikita Tolopilo.
The Red Wings, who are now halfway through their six-game road trip, have now moved into the top spot in the Atlantic Division.
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NBA Cup 2025: Quarterfinals preview, format, how much money players can win in NBA's in-season tournament
We have reached the NBA Cup quarterfinals, the eight-team knockout round — now things get serious. Especially for the players on those teams, because the money is now very real.
"I think half a million dollars is still a good amount of money to be able to motivate you to want to win games," the Lakers' Jake LaRavia told NBC Sports recently.
Here is everything you need to know about the NBA Cup quarterfinals matchups on Tuesday and Wednesday, and what happens from there.
What’s the NBA Cup 2025 format?
This is the one thing that has remained largely the same through the three years of the NBA Cup. First, all 30 teams were drawn into one of the six five-team groups (three East groups and three West groups). Each team plays the other teams in its group once — four games total — and those games count double as both regular-season and NBA Cup games.
The six group winners plus a wild card from each conference advance to the quarterfinals, where we are now. Those teams are placed in an eight-team knockout bracket (East vs. East, West vs. West, until the Finals). Starting with Tuesday's games, they are single-elimination.
What are the quarterfinals matchups?
Eastern Conference
Dec. 9 (on Amazon Prime)
Miami Heat at Orlando Magic
Game Analysis: After a slow start to their season, Orlando found its footing just as the NBA Cup got rolling. Not only did the Magic sweep into the quarterfinals, but it also comes in hot, having gone 7-3 in their last 10 with a top-10 offense and defense over that stretch. However, the Magic will enter the game without their best player this season, Franz Wagner, who suffered a high ankle sprain on Sunday.
Miami has been one of the great surprises of the season, with Erik Spoelstra flipping the Heat offense on its head, putting in an up-tempo, fast-decision offense that shuns picks in favor of isolation attacks. The good news is that the Heat are basically healthy for this game, with Norman Powell and Tyler Herro ready to go. The bad news is they come in cold having dropped three in a row, and in the past couple of weeks their defense and offense have fallen off.
New York Knicks at Toronto Raptors
Game Analysis: Watch the tempo of this game to get a clue how it is going. Toronto wants to run — it starts more of its possessions in transition than any team in the league, and it's got the athletes who can finish in space with Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley. Toronto relies on a pressure defense to fuel its transition offense, but when forced into the half-court, it banks on Brandon Ingram and his midrange game to power things (Toronto as a team loves the midrange).
The Knicks will run when they get the chance, but this is the team with the league's sixth-best first-shot half-court offense behind Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. New York comes in red hot, having won 7-of-8.
Western Conference
Dec. 10 (on Amazon Prime)
Phoenix Suns at Oklahoma City Thunder
Game Analysis: Oklahoma City has been a juggernaut so far this season — 23-1 with a 15.9 net rating that is on pace to set an NBA record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gets the headlines — he appears the early frontrunner to repeat as MVP — and they have Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, but what really drives the Thunder is their league-best defense. OKC's 104.1 defensive rating is 6.5 points per 100 possessions better than any team in the league.
That said, just more than a week ago the Suns gave the Thunder all they could handle in a 123-119 loss. Phoenix has been one of the great stories of the young season and three people deserve a lot of credit for that. One is coach Jordan Ott, who, in his first season, has given this team an identity — which starts with an aggressive, pressing defense — and has them playing hard every night (something the Suns didn't do consistently over the past couple of years). The second is Dillon Brooks, who came to Phoenix this summer in the Kevin Durant trade as a defensive stopper and an energy and intensity guy, but is breaking out on offense averaging 22.3 points per game. The other is Devin Booker, who remains one of the best two guards in the game, but his status for this game is questionable.
San Antonio at Los Angeles Lakers
Game Analysis: The big question heading into this one is whether Victor Wembanyama returns to play for the Spurs. He has been practicing with the team, but there is no word from the team (as of this writing), and the reports out of San Antonio make it sound like Wemby may sit this one out, too (Stephon Castle did return Monday night). San Antonio has gone 8-3 with Wembanyama out (calf strain), and in that time, the Spurs have gotten All-Star-level scoring and leadership from De'Aaron Fox, and keep an eye on rookie Dylan Harper, who has been brilliant.
The Lakers have been one of the best teams in the West, led by Luka Doncic playing at an MVP level, Austin Reaves proving he is ready to be a second scoring option, and LeBron James returning and fitting in, doing whatever the team needs to win on a given night. One thing to watch: the Lakers are 8-0 in clutch games this season (within five points in the final five minutes).
When are the NBA Cup quarterfinals, Finals?
Here is the schedule for the quarterfinals and beyond:
Quarterfinals: Dec. 9 and 10
Semifinals: Dec. 13 (Las Vegas)
Championship: Dec. 16 (Las Vegas)
NBA Cup 2025 odds
Here are the odds for the eight teams remaining to win the NBA Cup, via our partners at DraftKings:
Oklahoma City (-120)
New York (+475)
Los Angeles Lakers (+500)
Orlando (+1200)
Miami (+1200)
Toronto (+1400)
San Antonio (+1800)
Phoenix (+9000)
How much money does the champion get?
As the Lakers' LaRavia said above, the prize money motivates the players — and every roster player in the quarterfinals will get a bonus check out of this. However, they all have their eyes on the big prize.
How big? This is how the payouts break down:
• Each player on the team that wins the championship: $530,933
• Each player on the team that loses in the championship: $212,373
• Each player on a team that loses in the semifinals: $106,187
• Each player on a team that loses in the quarterfinals: $53,093
Who won the 2024 NBA Cup?
Milwaukee bounced back from an ugly 2-8 start to the season to find its footing in NBA Cup games and went on a run behind Giannis Antetokounmpo. He lifted them to the Cup Finals against Oklahoma City, where Antetokounmpo had a 26-point triple-double, completely controlling the game on both ends of the court.
GIANNIS, BUCKS WIN THE #EmiratesNBACup
— NBA (@NBA) December 18, 2024
26 PTS
19 REB
10 AST
3 BLK
2 STL
The Greek Freak put on a SHOW in Vegas! pic.twitter.com/tHDReTvS25
How to Watch the NBA on NBC and Peacock
Peacock NBA Monday will stream up to three Monday night games each week throughout the regular season. Coast 2 Coast Tuesday presents doubleheaders on Tuesday nights throughout the regular season on NBC and Peacock. On most Tuesdays, an 8 p.m. ET game will be on NBC stations in the Eastern and Central time zones, and an 8 p.m. PT game on NBC stations in the Pacific and often Mountain time zones. Check local listings each week. Both games will stream live nationwide on Peacock. NBC Sports will launch Sunday Night Basketball across NBC and Peacock on Feb. 1, 2026. For a full schedule of the NBA on NBC and Peacock, click here.
Flames Keep Rolling With 7–4 Win Over Sabres
The Calgary Flames continued their strong run at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Monday night, knocking off the Buffalo Sabres 7-4 and extending their home streak to 5-0-1 in their last six. Entering the night tied in points (26), both teams knew the matchup carried weight — and Calgary responded with one of their most assertive showings of the season.
Yegor Sharangovich scored twice, as he opened the scoring for the second straight game and added an an empty-netter and an assist, Rasmus Andersson ripped home his seventh of the year, and Jonathan Huberdeau buried his second power-play goal of the season. Meanwhile, Nazem Kadri led the offensive charge with a three-point performance (1G, 2A), and Yan Kuznetsov added his second goal of the season. Mikael Backlund rounded out the Flames scoring with an empty net goal.
Dustin Wolf battled through a chaotic night in the crease to secure his ninth win.
Calgary wasted little time establishing momentum. Sharangovich’s net-drive-first mentality paid off again when a point shot deflected off him and in. The Flames kept their foot down early, converting on a 5-on-3 powerplay when Andersson navigated traffic and wired one home, with Kadri setting up both first-period goals.
The Sabres clawed back in the second. Tage Thompson used his lethal release to beat Wolf on the power play, but Calgary responded with another powerplay marker — this time Huberdeau tapping in a slick Matt Coronato setup at the side of the net.
Buffalo briefly thought they tied it when Thompson snuck one past Wolf from a sharp angle, but an offside challenge wiped the goal off the board. The Sabres did eventually break through again when Owen Power’s point shot found a body in front and redirected in, cutting the lead to one.
However, every time Buffalo pushed, Calgary countered. Just 31 seconds after the Sabres scored, Sharangovich sprung Joel Farabee who found Kadri streaking towards the net, who finished off a clean passing sequence to restore the two-goal cushion. Rasmus Dahlin answered quickly for Buffalo, but Calgary scored quickly after — finished by Kuznetsov after a hard-working shift by Blake Coleman — re-establishing control at 5–3 heading into the third.
Sabres netminder Alex Lyon entered to start the final frame. Late in the third, with the net empty, Dahlin spotted Alex Tuch in front who redirected the shot past Wolf. Backlund responded moments later with an empty net goal, as did Sharangovich to seal it for the Flames.
Three Takeaways:
1. Flames Playing With Swagger
Confidence is a powerful thing, and Calgary showed plenty of it. Their pace was high, their puck movement sharp, and their response game was immediate — every time Buffalo scored, the Flames answered on the very next shift or within minutes. They didn’t let the Sabres build momentum, and that maturity showed throughout the night.
2. Power Play Delivers
The Flames’ power play has been searching for consistency, and it found it Monday. Calgary went 2-for-5, converting on a 5-on-3 opportunity and striking again late in the second. Andersson and Huberdeau cashed in. More importantly, the unit played with purpose — quick puck movement, strong retrievals, and decisive shooting.
3. Kadri Remains the Offensive Catalyst
Nazem Kadri continues to quietly pace the Flames’ attack. With another three-point night, he now leads the team with 26 points (6G, 20A). Beyond the numbers, Kadri is driving Calgary’s pace, dictating shifts, and elevating whoever plays on his line. When the Flames need a stabilizing presence or a momentum swing, he’s providing it.
Kings Take Down The Mammoth For Second Straight Victory
The Los Angeles Kings (14-8-7) traveled to Utah to take Mammoth (14-14-3) for the first time this season. After scoring a season-high six goals in their victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday, the Kings looked to carry over their offensive success as they face another Western conference foe.
After starting the season 9-1-2 on the road, the Kings had lost their last three road contests going 0-1-2 in that span. They managed to get back on track away from home with a 4-2 victory over the Mammoth on Monday night. Thanks to a great start and solid goaltending, the Kings pick up two points with their second straight victory.
The Mothers of the Los Angeles Kings might be good luck as they are now 2-0-0 with the Mom's in the building. They're even averaging a whopping five goals per game. Whatever they said to their sons it has worked and further proves the theory that Mom always knows best.
Strong Early Effort Gives Kings First Period Lead
Just over two minutes into the game, the Kings were headed to the power play after Mammoth rookie Daniil But was sent to the box for the first time in his young NHL career for hooking Quinton Byfield. However, the Kings power play struggles continued as they failed to get anything going on the man advantage once again.
Although they were unable to capitalize on an early opportunity, the Kings were bound to score as they were controlling the play early on. Surely enough, LA opened the scoring thanks to $10 million dollar man, Adrian Kempe. With just over 12 minutes remaining in the period, Kempe scored a gorgeous goal as he beat Karel Vejmelka with a slick backhand move as he came in with immense speed. The Kings leading scorer gave his team a 1-0 with his 10th goal of the season. Kevin Fiala picks up his first of two assists on the evening.
That was sick Adrian pic.twitter.com/O4J8NVGRdV
— LA Kings (@LAKings) December 9, 2025
About two minutes later, the Kings doubled their lead thanks to a tremendous pass by Fiala that found Joel Armia who beat Vejmelka on a breakaway. Armia's sixth goal of the season gave the Kings a 2-0 lead as the first period came to a close.
The Kings did have a brief scare however as Brandon Tanev seemingly scored a tremendous breakaway goal, but Jim Hiller and the Kings decided to challenge and Tanev's goal was offside.
Mammoth Cut The Lead In Half
After fending off a late Utah push in the first, the Kings lead was eventually cut in half. LA began the second period on the penalty kill due to Andrei Kuzmenko being assessed an interference penalty late in the first. Just 34 seconds into the middle frame, Dylan Guenther made the Kings pay as he fired a rocket of a shot past Darcy Kuemper.
Aside from Guenther's tally, the action was limited. Both LA and Utah had their opportunities but the goaltenders stood tall to keep the score at 2-1 entering the third. With how the period started, a 2-1 score was a major win for the Kings.
From Perfect Fit to Puzzle Piece: Kuzmenko’s LA DeclineSAN JOSE, CA — When the Los Angeles Kings acquired Andrei Kuzmenko at last season’s deadline, he helped transform an offensively barren roster into one of the league’s most dangerous even-strength teams down the stretch and the most lethal power play in the postseason.
Captains Carried The Third
The Kings wasted little time when it came to building upon their lead. Early in the final frame LA added a much needed insurance marker thanks to their captain. Anze Kopitar scored his sixth goal of the season as he was in the right spot at the right time and buried a rebound shot by Vejmelka, doubling the LA lead. Adrian Kempe and Joel Edmundson record the assists.
Once again, the Mammoth managed to cut the Kings lead in half. This time it was Utah's captain who got on the score sheet. Clayton Keller made it a 3-2 hockey game with a gorgeous backhand shot off a nice feed from Nick Schmaltz.
Joel Armia iced the game with his second of the game as he managed to find the back empty net from inside the Kings end.
Two Huge Points
They didn't score six goals again but the Kings pull off another impressive victory for their second straight win. A solid 60 minute effort moves the LA to 14-8-7 as they continue to battle for the lead in the Pacific division. The Kings are now a perfect 4-0-0 all time against the newly created Utah Mammoth franchise.
Catch the Kings next on Wednesday, December 10th when they take on the Seattle Kraken (11-9-6) at Climate Pledge Arena with puck drop at 7:00 PM ET/10:00 PM PT.
Kings Three Stars
1st Star: Kevin Fiala (2 A, +2, 1 HIT)
2nd Star: Adrian Kempe (1 G, 1 A, +2)
3rd Star: Joel Armia (2 G, +2, 4 SOG)
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Right-hander Drew Anderson and Detroit Tigers agree to 1-year, $7 million contract
ORLANDO, Fla. — Right-hander Drew Anderson and the Tigers agreed to a one-year contract, $7 million. Detroit general manager Scott Harris said Monday.
The deal includes a $10 million team option for 2027.
Anderson, 31, spent spring training with the Tigers in 2024 on a minor league contract and struck out 14 over eight innings while allowing seven runs and nine hits. He had a 3.86 ERA in nine games with Triple-A Toledo, then asked to be released and signed with SSD Landers in South Korea.
He went 23-10 with a 2.91 ERA over parts of two seasons in South Korea, striking out 403 and walking 104 in 287 1/3 innings.
Anderson last pitched in the major leagues with Texas in 2021 and then spent two seasons with Hiroshima in Japan's Central League.
He is 1-3 with a 6.50 ERA in two starts and 17 relief appearances over five big league seasons with Philadelphia (2017-19), the Chicago White Sox (2020) and the Rangers.
Red Wings' James van Riemsdyk Sets New Career Milestone vs. Canucks
While it was a slower start to his first season with the Detroit Red Wings than he would have liked, veteran forward James van Riemsdyk is more than making up for lost time thanks to his recent hot streak.
Entering Monday evening's game against the Vancouver Canucks, van Riemsdyk had goals in three straight games, and had tallied in five of his last six games.
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Now, the second overall pick in the 2007 NHL Draft (one pick behind his now-current Red Wings teammate Patrick Kane) has officially set a new career mark. With his first period goal against the Canucks, he now has goals in four straight games, the longest of his career.
SCORING MACHINE JAMES VAN RIEMSDYK pic.twitter.com/REjiGjz97U
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) December 9, 2025
van Riemsdyk, who went a span of 16 games without finding the back of the net after he scored in his Red Wings debut against the Toronto Maple Leafs, has been a scoring machine of late.
He now has goals in six of his last seven outings, and a total of 334 for his NHL career.
'No Panic In His Game': Red Hot James van Riemsdyk Paying Off For Red Wings Detroit Red Wings veteran James van Riemsdyk has now scored in three straight games, matching the longest streak of his NHL career. He was signed by Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman not only for his veteran leadership and savvy play around the net, but to provide secondary scoring. Right now, he's the hottest scorer on the team.
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Tigers reveal openness to listen to trade proposals for possible Mets target Tarik Skubal
Ahead of the MLB Winter Meetings, the chatter was that the Detroit Tigers would be listening to offers for potential Mets target Tarik Skubal, the back-to-back AL Cy Young Award winner and a free agent to be after the 2026 season.
On Monday, Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris gave a clear indication that there will indeed be "listening" and "exploring" when it came to the left-hander (and any player in the organization), but that might be as far as it goes.
“I’ve been pretty clear since I’ve been here,” Harris said in Orlando. “I don’t believe in untouchables at any level. So anyone in our organization, at any level. It’s not a commentary on Tarik specifically. Sort of a blanket team-building approach. I think I can’t do my job without listening.
“I can’t do my job without exploring anything that may or may not have legs. Some are maybe very likely moves, and some are going to be extremely unlikely. But you can’t actually fully vet those opportunities unless you are willing to listen. So that’s how we’re doing it.”
Harris, speaking on MLB Network, added later, "My job is to make this organization better. I need to find ways to make this organization better, which means that I need to listen to every opportunity."
On the eve of the meetings, ESPN's Buster Olney reported Detroit would "continue to be engaged" with teams interested in acquiring the ace, and that the asking price would be "enormous."
Enormous because the talent is so immense. Over his last two seasons, he's posted a 2.30 ERA (2.47 FIP) and 0.906 WHIP with 469 strikeouts and 68 walks in 387.1 innings over 62 starts.
If acquired, the Mets would face another hurdle in working on keeping the 29-year-old around for the long term: Skubal is represented by Scott Boras.
When the Tigers attempted to extend Skubal, it was reportedly not just a non-competitive offer, but one that was relatively insulting. Safe to say that while that isn't much of an indication of the starter's asking price, it is something the Mets would certainly be able to avoid.
In the meantime, Skubal is relatively inexpensive, expected to make roughly $18 million for his final season of arbitration.
SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino reported earlier this offseason that the Tigers have expressed interest in Brett Baty in the past.
Former NHL Goaltender Lauds Blackwood’s Stellar Performances with Avalanche
Mackenzie Blackwood has emerged as one of the top goaltenders in the NHL.
The 28-year-old earned that respect from NHL insider and former goaltender Kevin Weekes, who praised him Monday on NHL Tonight.
Blackwood was selected 42nd overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the New Jersey Devils, where he spent four seasons. His standout campaign came during the shortened 2019–20 season, posting a 22-14-8 record with a 2.77 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage. On the show, Weekes elaborated on why he has long admired Blackwood’s game.
“I think Mackenzie Blackwood going back to his time in (Juniors) always had the goods,” he stated. “He has the size; he has the skillset. I liked him a lot when he was with the Devils (Weekes’ former team), but he was a young goalie...but he’s really found his footing since going out West.”
On June 27, 2023, as a pending restricted free agent, Blackwood was traded to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a 2023 sixth-round draft pick. He promptly signed a two-year contract with San Jose. Blackwood made his Sharks debut early in the 2023–24 season on October 14, recording 51 saves in a 2–1 shootout loss to the Colorado Avalanche—ironically, the team that would acquire him the following season.
That move, however, is what Weekes said allowed Blackwood to truly hone his skills and demonstrate that he has what it takes to perform under pressure.
“And first going to San Jose and proving he can play under duress and then coming to Colorado, he’s been fantastic,” Weekes continued.
“But (against the Philadelphia Flyers) specifically and (the New York Rangers), he was absolutely outstanding. But again, keep in mind, the fact that just up the street from here, he played in New Jersey. He’s familiar with these buildings, so maybe that had something to do with it.”
Blackwood Started Season Nursing Injury
The start of the season did not unfold as Blackwood had hoped. He underwent offseason surgery to address a persistent lower-body injury, and his recovery progressed more slowly than anticipated. Having missed both training camp and the preseason, he only began taking reps once the regular season commenced, leaving it evident that he still had significant ground to make up.
After a somewhat shaky start, Blackwood has not only regained his footing but appears to be performing at the peak of his career. He currently holds an 8-1-1 record, boasting a career-low 2.21 goals-against average and a career-high .920 save percentage. While some might attribute his success to playing on a strong team, that perspective overlooks his individual contributions—most notably on Sunday, when the Avalanche defeated the Flyers 3-2 and Blackwood made several critical saves to preserve the one-goal margin. He deserves all of the credit.
Blackwood Is Elite
“I think he’s become a really complete goalie,” Weekes said. “I’m a big fan of his. What I would also say about Mackenzie Blackwood is like a lot of young people and young goalie players, he’s matured a lot, too.
“He knows Colorado is an elite team, but to me, the way he played...he played back-to-back. And I love that he played back-to-back because it’s kind of a rare thing nowadays, but I love seeing it, so good on him for the back-to-back performances.”
Blackwood recorded 25 saves against the Rangers on Saturday, helping secure a 3-2 overtime victory capped by Nathan MacKinnon’s deft backhand that eluded Igor Shesterkin. The following day, he added 23 more saves—including several highlight-reel stops—to propel the Avalanche to a second 3-2 triumph, this time in regulation.
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Mets’ Christian Scott a full-go for spring training, A.J. Minter uncertain for Opening Day
David Stearns said Monday at the Winter Meetings that rehabbing Mets pitchers Christian Scott and A.J. Minter have been progressing well this offseason.
Scott is wrapping up his recovery from Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him for the entirety of last season, and he’s in line to be a full participant by the time spring training comes.
That’s certainly encouraging news for the Mets’ pitching depth.
The 25-year-old was the first of New York’s influx of young talent to crack the majors, and he showed some of his high upside before going down to injury.
Scott pitched to a 4.56 ERA and 1.20 WHIP over his first nine big-league outings.
Minter, meanwhile, remains a bit less certain for the beginning of the season.
The veteran left-hander continues recovering from a lat injury that sidelined him for the season in late May, but if he does miss time, it is only expected to be brief.
Minter looked strong in his 13 appearances prior to the injury, and he is expected to play a key role in New York’s bullpen again after picking up his $11 million player option.
Dodgers downplay Teoscar Hernández rumors, continue assessing bullpen options
It’s been an offseason of few acquisitions thus far for the Dodgers.
So much so that, on the first day of MLB’s annual winter meetings at the Signia by Hilton Orlando on Monday, the most intriguing rumor surrounding the team had to do with a potential subtraction from their big-league roster.
According to multiple reports, Teoscar Hernández has come up in the Dodgers’ trade talks with other teams this winter. USA Today went as far as saying the club was “shopping” the two-time All-Star, who is entering the second season of the three-year, $66-million deal he signed last offseason.
However, both manager Dave Roberts and general manager Brandon Gomes downplayed that notion while addressing reporters on Monday.
“Teo certainly fits [our roster still],” Roberts said. “He’s helped us win two championships. He’s one of my favorites.”
“That doesn't feel likely,” Gomes added of the possibility of trading Hernández. “Obviously, you can never say never on those types of things. I know that's come up [in reports]. But that's not something we anticipate at all."
The idea of the Dodgers trading Hernández has felt like a long shot from the start. Though the 33-year-old slugger suffered an inconsistent and injury-plagued regular season in 2025 — both at the plate, where he had 25 home runs but hit only .247, and especially defensively, where he had several notable lapses after moving to right field — the 10-year veteran has made crucial contributions in each of the Dodgers’ two World Series runs the last couple years, and has served in a mentor role to young players in the clubhouse; none more so than Andy Pages.
Granted, moving Hernández could help the Dodgers get younger, which has been a goal for the front office this offseason as they try to navigate their aging and expensive roster. And his salary could be repurposed if the team were to make a splashier free-agent signing.
Read more:Shaikin: 'I try to put it in the trash.' How Teoscar Hernández's mindset delivered October magic
But for now, the Dodgers continue to express belief in their current core, with Roberts noting Monday that “we're very confident with where the roster is right now” and that “there's really no big splash we feel needs to be made.”
Plus, moving Hernández would also only further exacerbate the team’s pre-existing need for outfield help, as the club continues to evaluate both the free agent market (where players such as Cody Bellinger or Harrison Bader figure to be better, and more affordable, fits than a likely $400-million signing of top free-agent option Kyle Tucker) and trade possibilities (such as Brendan Donovan or Lars Nootbaar of the St. Louis Cardinals, Jarren Duran or Wilyer Abreu of the Boston Red Sox or — in a less likely scenario — Steven Kwan of the Cleveland Guardians).
Read more:A quiet Dodgers offseason has yet to heat up. Will winter meetings help them find a move?
Roberts did leave the door open to potentially moving Hernández back to left field, where he spent the majority of 2024 for the Dodgers before shifting over to his more natural right field position last year.
Still, in Roberts’ eyes, Hernández’s defense was “at least average” in right after an August series in Colorado when he made a couple particularly glaring mistakes on fly balls. His career-long defensive metrics have also been stronger in right field than left.
“I do think that with the versatility [of our roster] and how we potentially shape this roster, there's some options,” Roberts said. “But right now, he's our right fielder.”
Dodgers continue to assess bullpen options
One area the Dodgers do still seem more eager to make an addition this offseason is in the bullpen, even as they voice confidence in improved performances from the returning members of last year’s disappointing group.
“Getting a high-leverage reliever,” Roberts said, “is never a bad thing.”
The Dodgers have attempted to sign some big-name, back-end relievers already this winter, from Raisel Iglesias (who ultimately returned to the Atlanta Braves on a one-year, $16-million deal, despite the Dodgers reportedly making a similar offer to the veteran right-hander) to Devin Williams (who went to the New York Mets on a three-year, $5- million deal, despite the Dodgers’ interest in him dating back to last offseason).
While the Dodgers’ preference is still to sign a free-agent reliever to a shorter-term contract — especially after watching Tanner Scott struggle in the first season of the four-year deal he signed with the team last winter — there are signs the club could be more aggressive on that front.
Read more:Dodgers seek another back-end reliever. But will they be willing to do another long-term deal?
The team had strong interest in Williams, according to a person with knowledge of the situation who wasn’t authorized to speak publicly, even as his bidding reached the level of multi-year offers.
That could offer some insight into the club's pursuit of another current relief target: Former San Diego Padres closer Robert Suárez.
The Dodgers have expressed interest in Suárez, as the Athletic first reported. And, with the hard-throwing right-hander set to turn 35 next March, he has only been projected to sign a two- or three-year contract. Time will tell if that’s out of the Dodgers’ comfort zone.
If the team strikes out at the top of the market — Edwin Díaz still looms as the biggest free-agent closer, but is expected to be out of the Dodgers’ preferred price range — there could be other alternatives.
Read more:World Series hero Miguel Rojas agrees to return to Dodgers on one-year deal
Pete Fairbanks, the former Tampa Bay Rays closer whom the Dodgers inquired about at last year’s deadline, remains a potential option, although the team has not yet targeted him aggressively. The Dodgers have also expressed interest in re-signing Evan Phillips, despite not tendering him a contract as he recovers from a Tommy John surgery.
Familiar face Michael Kopech could also be a fallback alternative after spending the last year and a half in Los Angeles, though he was unable to pitch in this past postseason because of injuries.
Faith in Tanner Scott, Mookie Betts rebounds
One constant message the Dodgers have reiterated when discussing their bullpen this offseason has been their continued faith in Scott, despite his 4.74 ERA and woeful 23 of 33 mark in save opportunities last year.
Both Roberts and Gomes noted on Monday that Scott was potentially hampered by injuries last year.
“I think there were just some things he kept under wraps about his body,” Roberts said of the 31-year-old left-hander, who missed a month in the second half of the season with forearm inflammation. “Some stuff that he just, honestly, he never felt right all year.”
“I think when he went down with the elbow injury, my sense is Tanner is a tough guy and wants the ball, but that was bothering him for a while,” Gomes added, while also noting that “there was a lot of batted ball luck and things that would be very hard to repeat again” that contributed to his disappointing debut season.
Read more:'Better late than never.' How Mookie Betts salvaged the worst season of his career
“We’ve seen it happen with elite relievers before,” Gomes continued. “So I’m very confident that Tanner is gonna come back and have a great season for us and be a big part of our success.”
Another player the Dodgers are banking on improvements from is Mookie Betts, who was a Gold Glove finalist defensively after switching to shortstop last season but suffered a career-worst campaign at the plate (.258 average, .732 OPS and only 20 home runs in 150 games).
“He had a tough, tough offensive year,” Roberts said. “He did. He's human, but it's easy to bet on a bounce-back year for Mookie on the offensive side for sure.”
A big reason why: Betts figures to be able to spend more time this offseason working on his swing and rebuilding the strength he lost following a bout with a serious stomach virus at the start of last season. Last winter, Betts spent the majority of his offseason work preparing for his full-time move to shortstop — a position Roberts confirmed he will play again in 2026.
“I'm sure in some way, he now knows that he is a double-plus shortstop,” Gomes said. “He will put in the work to maintain that. He now probably just has a little more bandwidth to balance it all out.”
Etc.
— Gomes said utilityman Tommy Edman’s recent ankle surgery was a debridement procedure to address the injury that nagged him during the second half of last season. Edman’s recovery will likely leave him limited at the start of spring training, but the team does not “expect it to affect a meaningful part of the season,” Gomes added. Edman is also expected to be able to play both the infield and outfield next season, after his injury limited him to mostly infield duties last year.
— Brusdar Graterol is expected to be “full go” next spring, Gomes said, after the reliever missed all of last year recovering from a shoulder surgery. Fellow reliever Brock Stewart “will be a little delayed” after missing the end of last year with his own shoulder surgery, Gomes said, “but we don’t think it’s going to be anything [that lingers] too deep into the season at all.”
— Shohei Ohtani is expected to be making full-length pitching starts from the beginning of next season, but Roberts noted the club could be strategic in giving him extra days off between his pitching outings: “I do feel that giving him six, seven, eight days off to kind of allow him to continue to stay rested and build up, I think that's in our process. But again, we have a long way to go [before making final decisions].”
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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Flyers Acquire New Prospect Defender From Lightning
The Philadelphia Flyers have made another minor trade.
The Flyers have announced that they have acquired defenseman Roman Schmidt from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for blueliner Ethan Samson.
With this move, the Flyers have added a new defenseman with size to their system in Schmidt. The 6-foot-5, right-shot defenseman was selected by the Lightning with the 96th overall pick of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft and has spent his entire professional career so far at the AHL level.
In 13 games this season with the Lightning's AHL affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch, he recorded one assist and 38 penalty minutes. This was after he had three goals, five points, 79 penalty minutes, and a plus-7 rating in 49 games last season for the Crunch.
As for Samson, the Flyers selected the right-shot defenseman with the 174th overall pick of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. In 10 games this season with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms before this trade, he posted four assists and a plus-4 rating. This was after he had 12 goals and 24 points in 69 games for the Phantoms this past season.