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Dembélé destroys Lille and lifts PSG back on top of Ligue 1

PARIS (AP) — Ousmane Dembélé put transfer talk behind him and scored a crucial brace for Paris Saint-Germain in a 3-0 win over Lille that returned it to the top of Ligue 1 on Friday.

French media last week reported that the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner rejected a new contract offer.

His coach Luis Enrique called the speculation fake news and Dembélé’s focus was razor sharp in a game between two of the league’s top four.

His 12th-minute strike from more than 20 meters out gave the Lille goalkeeper no chance and his second 18 minutes into the second half was a reminder of why he picked up that Ballon d’Or.

With four defenders in front of him, Dembélé somehow found space to chip the most audacious of shots that bamboozled keeper Berke Ozer and dropped in just under the crossbar.

Substitute Bradley Barcola, another whose future has been subject to speculation, rounded off the scoring in injury time when he pounced on slack defending and slammed home the third.

The win settled nerves at the defending champion just days after city rival Paris FC knocked it out of the French Cup.

Friday’s win lifted PSG back atop the league table, two points clear of Lens which has a game in hand on Saturday against second-to-last Auxerre.

Lille remained fourth, 10 points back.

Monaco lose again

Monaco fell to its seventh defeat in eight games after another poor performance, this time at home to Lorient 3-1.

Lorient’s Bamba Dieng had a goal disallowed in the first half but he got one that counted midway through the second period. The Senegalese forward seized on a mistake by the Monaco defense.

Ansu Fati equalized eight minutes later but goals from Jean-Victor Makengo in the 85th minute and Dermane Karim three minutes from time gave visiting Lorient all three points and extended its unbeaten run to nine games in all competitions.

Lorient was one point behind ninth-placed Monaco.

It was another unhappy start to the weekend for Monaco, whose record in Friday night games fell to won two, drawn five, lost nine.

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

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Celtics, Hawks injury reports reveal several key players are out

ATLANTA — The Celtics (25-15) could be without Payton Pritchard when they face the Atlanta Hawks (20—23) on Saturday night.

Pritchard is doubtful to play as he deals with left ankle soreness; if he’s sidelined, it will be his first missed game of the season. Josh Minott, meanwhile, will miss his 7th consecutive game with a left ankle sprain, and Jayson Tatum continues to be sidelined as he recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Pritchard scored just 2 points in Thursday’s comeback win over the Miami Heat and sat out for the entire fourth quarter, while his backup, Anfernee Simons, exploded for a season-best 39 points, 18 of which came in the fourth quarter. It’s possible Pritchard’s reduced minutes were related to some ankle soreness, though it’s also likely Joe Mazzulla opted to go with the hot hand.

For the Hawks, former Celtic Kristaps Porzingis is out with left Achilles tendonitis, Zaccharie Risacher is out with a left knee bone contusion, and N’Faly Dante is out with a right knee ACL tear. Dyson Daniels is questionable with a right ankle sprain.

The Hawks are having another mediocre season

The Atlanta Hawks haven’t quite had the year they were hoping for. By all accounts, Atlanta has been a below-average team; they’ve had the NBA’s 19th-best offensive rating, 16th-best defensive rating, and 18th-best overall net rating. They have a 20-23 record, which is good for the 10th-best record in the conference.

Last week, they parted ways with longtime franchise cornerstone Trae Young, acquiring CJ McCollum and Corey Krispert from the Washington Wizards in exchange. And, they’ve dealt with a myriad of injuries, with Porzingis only appearing in 17 of the Hawks’ 43 games this season, as he’s dealt with POTS and various other injuries.

One bright spot has been the superb play of Jalen Johnson; the likely first-time All-Star has put up monster numbers, averaging 23.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game. Offseason addition Nickeil Alexander-Walker is tallying 20.5 points and 3.5 assists. And Porzingis has been effective when he has played, averaging 17.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.

One weird quirk is that the Hawks have been better on the road than at home this season; they’re 7-11 at State Farm Arena, but 13-12 at away games. (The Celtics, meanwhile, are 15-4 at home and 13-6 on the road).

After their win over the Heat, the Celtics now have the second-best net rating in the NBA (+7.1), the second-best offensive rating (121.5), and the 15th-best defensive rating. They hold the second-best record in the Eastern Conference at 25-15.

Celtics-Hawks will tip off on Saturday at 7:30pm ET.

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Report: Hawks address size, add center Koloko

The Hawks are looking to address their lack of big man depth in the wake of Kristaps Porzingis’ ongoing health issues and the season-ending ACL tear to N’Faly Dante.

Lauren L. Williams of the AJC reports that the Hawks are signing Cameroonian big man Christian Koloko to their open two-way slot:

The 6-foot-11, 225-pound Koloko has played for the Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Memphis Grizzlies since being drafted in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft. For his NBA career, he averages 8.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per 36 minutes.

Largely a defensive specialist, his raw numbers aren’t too eyepopping, but over his 1,345-minute NBA career, his teams are 5.4 points per 100 possessions better with him on the floor compared to off the floor according to basketball-reference.

He joins guard RayJ Dennis and forward Caleb Houstan as the third and final two-way player at this moment.

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Pisa scores rare home goal to salvage draw with Atalanta

PISA, Italy (AP) — Second-to-last Pisa scored only its second home goal of the season with three minutes left to tie high-flying Atalanta 1-1 and record a Serie A-high 11th draw on Friday.

Pisa had the better of a dour match but it had scored only once in eight home matches this season and rarely threatened to increase that meager tally.

It went behind with seven minutes left when Nikola Krstovic pounced on a lose ball close to goal and fired into the roof of the net from a tight angle.

But soon after Rafiu Durosinmi met a cross from Mehdi Léris and gave Pisa a vital point in its fight against relegation.

It was one point above Verona and equal with Fiorentina. Both clubs have a game in hand.

Atalanta was in seventh place.

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

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Boston Celtics Daily Links 1/16/26

HeraldAnfernee Simons erupts to power massive Celtics comeback in win over Heat

GlobeCeltics rally after trailing by 19 to stun Heat 119-114

Anfernee Simons turned in his best game as a Celtic, and the Heat paid the price

Celtics GreenComments from the Other Side – Heat 1/15/26

CelticsBlog10 Takeaways from a Celtics comeback win in Miami

Celtics massive comeback took much more than just Anfernee Simons

Celtics’ Anfernee Simons made an “amazing” no-trade case by scorching the Heat

Anfernee Simons propels Celtics past the Heat, win 119-114

Newest Maine Celtics addition just went off in comeback win

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 119, Heat 114

NBC Sports BostonThe Anferno: Five stats that highlight Simons’ impact with Celtics

Celtics-Heat recap: Anfernee Simons stars in C’s comeback win

NESN Celtics Reportedly Have Interest In Trading For Grizzlies Star

Former Celtics Guard Identified As ‘Player To Watch’ Before Trade Deadline

Latest Kristaps Porzingis Update Shows Celtics Made Right Call

Multiple Reports Say Ex-Celtics Big Man On Trade Block

Troubled Former Celtics Guard Gets Arrested Again For Alleged Robbery

NBA Insider Pegs Derrick White For Major Award At Season’s Midway Point

Mass LiveBoston Celtics rookie exceeding every expectation at midway mark

Erik Spoelstra calls out Heat center after Celtics comeback win

Ex-Patriots QB calls Joe Mazzulla ‘a cool, young version of Belichick’

Celtics guard creating surprising trade deadline dilemma for Brad Stevens

Celtics Mailbag: Could Boston land Al Horford replacement at trade deadline?

Jaylen Brown makes important admission on off-night in Heat win

Boston Celtics guard goes down in unique history in Heat win

Anfernee Simons is the Celtics ‘Name to Know’ Player of the Game in Thursday’s win over Heat

4 takeaways as Celtics rally past Heat after historic night by reserve

Celtics Wire Celtics are in trade rumors, but are there big man targets they can land?

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla wants more attention on Anfernee Simons’ defense

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra on why Heat couldn’t stop Anfernee Simons, Boston Celtics

Derrick White embracing larger leadership role for younger Boston Celtics teammates

Adjusting to the Celtics, Anfernee Simons is finding his role – and it shows

Celtics survive red-hot early scoring by Heat, win 119-115 (PHOTOS)

Celtics jersey history No. 54 – Zaid Abdul-Aziz (1978)

Celtics history: Pagliuca, Henderson, Reed born; Robey trade

The Celtics are on a historic winning streak in Miami Heat territory

The Athletic‘Special’ Anfernee Simons carries Celtics down the stretch in Miami

Boston Sports Journal Picks ‘n Pops: Simons praise, a little respect, and booing your own fans

BSJ Game Report: Celtics 119, Heat 114 – Simons’ historic heater leads big comeback

Hardwood Houdini Anfernee Simons just gave Celtics something nobody else could

Latest rumor just brought Celtics one step closer to blockbuster trade reality

Paul Pierce just delivered a message Celtics fans can’t ignore

Celtics’ latest signing will put a smile on Amari Williams’ face

Celtics just put NBA on notice in way that nobody can ignore

Celtics are finally getting the Jordan Walsh realization all over again

Celtics fans just saw legacy game that changed everything in an instant

Celtics are finally getting Anfernee Simons update they’ve been waiting for

CLNS Media/YouTubeGarden Report: Celtics vs Heat Postgame Show on CLNS Media – Anfernee Simons GOES OFF

Anfernee Simons goes CRAZY against Miami – You Got Boston w/ Noa Dalzell

Sam Hauser on Celtics’ 4th quarter surge vs Heat | Celtics Postgame IntervIew

Jaylen Brown on Being BENCHED vs Heat | Celtics Postgame Interview

Anfernee Simons on his 39-point night vs Miami | Celtics Postgame Interview

Joe Mazzulla on Anfernee Simons’ 39-point performance vs Heat | Celtics Postgame Interview

Heavy Celtics Free-Agent Bust Tabbed ‘Most Likely’ to Be Traded

Celtics Bombshell Trade Idea Adds Multi-Time All-Star

3-Team Trade Proposal Sends $161 Million All-Star to Celtics

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Drops Major Hint About Injury Return

Blockbuster Trade Pitch Lands Anfernee Simons With Heat

Jaylen Brown Makes Candid Admission About Celtics Guard Following Big Night

Three Major Takeaways from Anfernee Simons 39-Point Night

SI .comChris Mannix Reveals Brad Stevens’ Trade Deadline Plans For Celtics

Miami Heat blow early lead as Simons, Celtics storm back in fourth quarter

Barstool Sports Bald Wemby Has Arrived In The NBA Which Can Only Mean That Complete And Total Destruction Is On The Horizon

Bleacher ReportLatest NBA Rumors on Knicks, Celtics, 76ers, Magic Ahead of 2026 Trade Deadline

BasketnewsCeltics rookie tells a funny Joe Mazzulla story, opens up on NBA Draft night

Fadeaway WorldThe Most Realistic Targets For The Boston Celtics Before February Trade Deadline

CBS Sports Celtics’ Anfernee Simons shows why he’s one of the most intriguing players heading into the NBA trade deadline

Basketball Network“This season I focused more on basketball than I ever have” – Jaylen Brown on why the Celtics need him more than ever

NBA/YouTube EXTENDED: CELTICS at HEAT | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | January 15, 2026

Duke RoundtableDuke Legend Jayson Tatum’s Fate Will be Decided by One Major Factor

Locked on CelticsHISTORY: Celtics’ Anfernee Simons RESCUES Boston in Miami—Why Jayson Tatum Needs to Pay Attention

Brock PressThe Boston Celtics are doing the unthinkable   

ESPN NBA trade deadline 2026: One player to watch on all 30 teams

The Sports HubCeltics complete 19-point comeback, top Heat 119-114

‘You have to believe in yourself’: Simons continues to excel in his role off bench

Miami HeraldHeat blows big lead in home loss to Celtics, reaching midway point at 21-20. Takeaways and details

The Celtics ChronicleBoston Celtics Trade Deadline Primer w/ Keith Smith

AudacyThe case for keeping Anfernee Simons at the trade deadline

Celtics Recap Celtics Eye Trade for $9 Million Player Amid Tight Deadline Pressure

Basketball ForeverJaylen Brown Questions NBA Referees & Alleges Preferential Treatment

WTOP NewsFormer NBA player arrested in Fairfax Co., charged with robbery and assault

Celtics Roundtable‘The Anfernee Simons Game’ Saves the Celtics in Miami, Boston Wins 119-114

Rip City ProjectCeltics are realizing what Blazers always knew about Anfernee Simons

Essentially SportsCameras Spot Jayson Tatum Teasing Injury Return With 2-Word Message

NBA .comPlayer of the Night – Anfernee Simons – Jan. 15

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Jonathan Kuminga trade ideas for 3 teams, including Lakers and Mavs deal

Jonathan Kuminga’s potential is still carrying his reputation. The fifth-year forward has consistently failed to earn the trust of Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, and so far this year he’s been producing like one of the worst players in the league (12th percentile in EPM). The Warriors still didn’t want to cut bait on the talented 23-year-old, so they signed him to a two-year, $46 million contract over the summer with the intent of trading him eventually. Kuminga has been fully out of Golden State rotation for the last month as he became trade eligible on Jan. 15, and he has unsurprisingly “demanded” to be traded to a new team.

The Warriors payed Kuminga handsomely mostly to use him as trade bait, but at this point they need to realize he likely won’t be used to acquire something resembling the missing piece for the team’s flawed roster. Golden State reportedly doesn’t want to take back any long-term salary in the deal, and at this point that might be their only reasonable hope. It’s starting to feel like the best the Warriors can do here is some expiring contracts and maybe a second-round pick or two. Golden State could continue to hold Kuminga hostage in hopes of finding a trade partner this summer, but he’s not going to be able to grow him value on the bench.

Here’s three fake Jonathan Kuminga trades ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline. Add some future second-round picks to all of these. Warning: none of these are very good for the Warriors.

Jonathan Kuminga to Lakers trade idea with Nets

The Lakers reportedly have some interest in Kuminga, but it’s hard to come up with a deal that works straight up between the two teams due the arcane rules around the forward’s “base year compensation.” I wanted to get the Warriors Jake LaRavia in this deal, so I included the Nets as a third team, who could conceivably pick up multiple future second-round picks for taking on a pair of expiring contracts by make the numbers work. LaRavia hasn’t been great this year (41st percentile EPM), but he has a combination of size, shooting, and IQ on the wing that could entice Golden State. Highsmith is currently recovering from a torn meniscus, but he’s shown some level of competency as a two-way forward when he’s been healthy. The Lakers get a chance to give Kuminga a more defined role, and maybe they turn him in to a solid rotation piece the same way they’ve done with Rui Hachimura. I think this one makes sense for all sides.

Jonathan Kuminga to Kings trade idea with Bulls

The Kings have consistently been mentioned as Kuminga’s biggest suitor, but Golden State’s hesitance to take on Malik Monk’s long-term money has killed the deal to this point. In this three-team trade, the Chicago Bulls jump in to take Monk, clearing the way for Kuminga to Sacramento. The Warriors are getting a pair of failed first-round picks in this deal with Devin Carer and Dalen Terry. Terry is a pretty good wing defender who can’t do much on offense, and he expires after this season. Carter is in his second season, and the 3-and-D skill set that made him a lottery pick coming out of college has yet to translate. Maybe the Warriors think they can resurrect Carter’s career, while the Bulls land a microwave scoring guard that allows them to trade Coby White before they would have to re-sign him this summer.

Jonathan Kuminga to Mavericks trade idea

The Mavs reportedly have interest in Kuminga, and I could help myself but use that as an excuse to send Klay Thompson back to the Bay. Golden State might not love Thompson having another season at $16 million on the books after this year, but maybe they could trade him again this summer for a piece that fits better. There’s always a chance Thompson can catch fire and swing a playoff game again for Golden State, and that’s just fun to think about. I don’t see much downside here for either team.

Could Golden State package a future first-round pick or two with Kuminga to try to get Michael Porter Jr.? That’s a possibility too, but I’m not sure Brooklyn will play ball for only one pick, and I don’t think the Warriors will offer two. Add your favorite fake Kuminga trades below and I’ll judge them.

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3 Canadiens Back At Practice In Regular Jerseys

The Montreal Canadiens forwards Kirby Dach, Jake Evans, and Patrik Laine all participated in regular jerseys during the club's Jan. 16 practice.

Dach, Evans, and Laine have all been sidelined for the Canadiens due to injury. However, with all three of them returning to practice in regular jerseys, it appears that they are each getting closer to returning to game action. 

The Canadiens are set to face off against the Ottawa Senators on Jan. 17. At this time, it has not been announced that any of these three players will play. Even if they end up each being ruled out, it is still very encouraging that they were all present at the Canadiens' latest practice in regular jerseys. 

Dach has not played for the Canadiens since their Nov. 15 matchup against the Boston Bruins. In 15 games this season with Montreal, the 6-foot-4 forward has recorded five goals and seven points. 

Evans' most recent appearance was on Dec. 20 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. In 34 games this season with the Original Six club, he has posted five goals, five assists, and 10 points. 

As for Laine, he has not been in the Canadiens' lineup since their Oct. 16 game against the Nashville Predators. He has played in just five games this season for Montreal because of it, where he has one assist. 

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Cavaliers vs 76ers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

The Philadelphia 76ers were embarrassed at home in a lopsided loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, but they’ll have a chance to respond in Friday’s rematch in Philly.

Tyrese Maxey remains one of the NBA’s premier scorers, and my Cavaliers vs. 76ers predictions call for a strong offensive bounce-back after his quiet showing earlier in the week.

Here are my best free NBA picks for Friday’s Eastern Conference matchup at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Friday, January 16.

Cavaliers vs 76ers prediction

Cavaliers vs 76ers best bet: Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points (-120)

Tyrese Maxey is scoring a career-high 30.5 points per game this season, and tonight's scoring line is set at a juicy 25.5 points. He finished with just 14 points on 5-of-16 shooting in Wednesday's win, but he posted 26+ in three straight and nine of 10 games before that. 

Maxey has scored at least 26 in 29 of 37 games overall, including 13 of 19 at home. He’s reached the Over on this scoring line in 78.3% of his games, meaning the odds here should be -360. I’ll gladly take the discount here.

Maxey’s 14 points in his last game out represent his third-lowest scoring total of the season. He scored 27 in his other matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers this season, and he scored 27 and 29 in two matchups with the Cavs last season.

Cleveland will be missing Darius Garland and Sam Merrill tonight, and the Philadelphia 76ers should be close to full strength. I expect a more competitive showing and a bounce-back performance for the Sixers’ electric leading scorer.

Cavaliers vs 76ers same-game parlay

Jaylon Tyson finished with 20, 17, and 27 PRA across 25.3 minutes over his last three games. He started Wednesday in place of Sam Merrill, who was injured in that contest.

Merrill and Darius Garland are both out tonight, which should mean another start for Tyson. He's averaged 21 PRA across 22 started, hitting the Over on this line 13 times, including five of eight on the road.

The 76ers have hit the Over in nine of 13 games as the home favorite. Cleveland is 11-7 to the Over on the road.

The teams are 9-1 to the Over across their last 10 head-to-head matchups.

Cavaliers vs 76ers SGP

  • Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points
  • Jaylon Tyson Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists
  • Over 235

Our "from downtown" SGP: Spida web

Donovan Mitchell has scored at least 31 points in nine of 16 road games this season, and has dropped point totals of 35 and 46 against the 76ers.

Cavaliers vs 76ers SGP

  • Tyrese Maxey Over 25.5 points
  • Jaylon Tyson Over 21.5 points + rebounds + assists
  • Over 235
  • Donovan Mitchell Over 30.5 points 

Cavaliers vs 76ers odds

  • Spread: Cleveland +1.5 (-105) | Philadelphia -1.5 (-115)
  • Moneyline: Cleveland +110 | Philadelphia -130
  • Over/Under: Over 235 (-110) | Under 235 (-110)

Cavaliers vs 76ers betting trend to know

The Cavaliers have hit the 1Q Over in 29 of their last 45 away games (+11.35 Units / 22% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. 76ers.

How to watch Cavaliers vs 76ers

LocationXfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, PA
DateFriday, January 16, 2026
Tip-off7:00 p.m. ET
TVESPN

Cavaliers vs 76ers latest injuries

Not intended for use in MA.
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Hornets announcer blasts Luka Doncic on air: ‘This guy is a whiner’

Hornets announcer Eric Collins clearly won’t be getting a holiday card from Luka Doncic this year.

The broadcaster ripped into the Lakers guard during Charlotte’s matchup with Los Angeles at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday night, calling out the five-time All-Star for complaining about whistles.

“Oh my goodness,” Collins said on air. “This guy is a whiner.”

Hornets broadcaster Eric Collins called Luka Doncic “a whiner” while announcing Charlotte’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. NBC

Collins’ rant came early in the third quarter, after Doncic thought he had been fouled while trying to score on Kon Knueppel.

Doncic shook his head in disbelief, before he appeared to have some words for one of the on-court officials. Seconds later, the 26-year-old was issued a technical foul, and as he tried to plead his case to the ref, Collins unloaded into his mic.

The Lakers lost to the Hornets, 135-117, despite Luka Doncic netting 39 points. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

“The Hornets have a chance to make it hurt,” Collins said after throwing the jab at Doncic. “A potential four-point play.”

An expressive Doncic takes it to the hole. Getty Images

Collins went on to add, “That is now 11 technical fouls on Luka Doncic. He’s got a reputation.”

Doncic and the Lakers weren’t able to make Collins eat his words — they ultimately lost, 135-117.

The Lakers are now just 1-4 in their last five games, although Doncic was still able to finish the night with 39 points, three rebounds and four assists.

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Game #47: Ducks vs. Kings Gameday Preview (01/16/26)

The first of two consecutive games against the Los Angeles Kings will be played on Friday, following the Ducks' sharp performance against the Dallas Stars on Tuesday. The Kings are coming off a 3-2 overtime loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday.

Both Friday's (in Los Angeles) and Saturday's (in Anaheim) games could have major implications for the playoff picture, with the Kings and Ducks separated by just two points. Both teams are currently just outside of the second Wild Card spot, with the Kings' 49 points being two behind the fellow Pacific Division San Jose Sharks at 51.

"(These games against the Kings are) very tight checking, very detailed," Ducks winger Chris Kreider said after Thursday’s practice. "It's a divisional matchup. You can tell that it means more. It's a fun rivalry, looking forward to getting down to LA and playing."

Dec 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks center Ryan Poehling (25), left wing Ross Johnston (44) and Los Angeles Kings right wing Joel Armia (40) battle for the puck in the third period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Dec 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks center Ryan Poehling (25), left wing Ross Johnston (44) and Los Angeles Kings right wing Joel Armia (40) battle for the puck in the third period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

For Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville, the kind of game that his team played on Tuesday against Dallas is what the Kings do consistently. In a matchup like this, it will come down to which team can execute that kind of game better.

“It’s kind of what we're talking about going into the game,” Quenneville said. “We want to have the same mindset, like we're playing Dallas. 
It's simple, and it's going to be straight ahead and check and check. This team probably is the stingiest at playing a patient team game and trying to create, gonna get you in trouble. We’ve seen last time in here, we got a little bit of an education. “Let’s be ready to go, playing the same way as we played the last game, and know that's something to build off of.”

"Offense isn't going to be a problem with this team, you've got to play good defense," Kreider said. "We've learned that we can generate offense off of playing good defense. Ultimately, winning hockey games is fun. That's how you win hockey games."

“They’re a good team,” Gauthier said of the Kings. “We've played them a couple times now and they play a really tight checking, solid defensive game. They don't give you a lot of opportunities, so got to bear down when you get the chances tonight.”

Dec 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks left wing Cutter Gauthier (61) is defended by Los Angeles Kings left wing Warren Foegele (37) as he handles the puck in the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Dec 27, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks left wing Cutter Gauthier (61) is defended by Los Angeles Kings left wing Warren Foegele (37) as he handles the puck in the first period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Gauthier and Troy Terry will both return to the lineup after missing Tuesday's game with an illness and upper-body injury, respectively. Terry has missed three consecutive games due to his injury and was expected to be a game-time decision on Tuesday, but did not participate in warmups. Gauthier was a full participant at Tuesday's morning skate but was ruled out with an illness prior to puck drop. He also did not participate in warmups.

UPDATE: Troy Terry has been placed on injured reserve. Sam Colangelo has been recalled from AHL San Diego.

“Feeling good, ready to go,” Gauthier said. “We have to play a solid defensive game and play super physical. In the Dallas game, watching the game, guys just played a really physical role and allowed everyone to know who their checks were and clarified up things in the D-zone, especially in the O-zone. Moving forward, I think that's the standard, just got to build off of it.”

Anaheim will be without forward Leo Carlsson for the second consecutive game due to a lower-body injury. Carlsson missed Tuesday's game with the injury after being a full participant at morning skate. Carlsson missed one game in late December due to a lower-body injury. Whether these two injuries are the same injury or two separate injuries is unknown.

Apr 10, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks center Leo Carlsson (91) moves the puck against Los Angeles Kings defenseman Mikey Anderson (44) during the third period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Apr 10, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Anaheim Ducks center Leo Carlsson (91) moves the puck against Los Angeles Kings defenseman Mikey Anderson (44) during the third period at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Nikita Nesterenko was assigned to AHL San Diego on Thursday, which leaves the Ducks with zero extra forwards due to Carlsson's injury. Kreider did not participate in Friday’s morning skate and will be a game-time decision, according to Quenneville. The Ducks acquired forward Jeffrey Viel from the Boston Bruins on Friday morning, but he will not be available to play as he travels across the coast from Boston.

Long-time King and team captain Anže Kopitar will not play in either game this weekend after being placed on injured reserve on Jan. 10 with a lower-body injury. This means that Kopitar likely already played the final game of his career against the Ducks on Dec. 27, 2025.

Ducks Projected Lines

Cutter Gauthier - Mason McTavish - Ryan Strome
Alex Killorn - Mikael Granlund - Beckett Sennecke
Jansen Harkins - Ryan Poehling - Sam Colangelo
Ross Johnston - Tim Washe - Ian Moore

Jackson LaCombe - Jacob Trouba
Olen Zellweger - Radko Gudas
Pavel Mintyukov - Drew Helleson

Lukáš Dostál (confirmed)

Kings Projected Lines

Jeff Malott - Alex Laferriere - Adrian Kempe
Warren Foegele - Quinton Byfield - Joel Armia
Kevin Fiala - Alex Turcotte - Andrei Kuzmenko
Andre Lee - Samuel Helenius - Taylor Ward

Mikey Anderson - Drew Doughty
Joel Edmundson - Brandt Clarke
Brian Dumoulin - Cody Ceci

Darcy Kuemper (confirmed)

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Latest Trade Rumour Links Canucks Evander Kane With Another Pacific Division Team

As the trade deadline approaches, trade rumours will continue to follow the Vancouver Canucks. The latest involves the L.A. Kings, who are rumoured to be interested in Evander Kane. This report came from MayorsManor.com and was released on Thursday. 

As per the report, "While it’s still a rumor — something we don’t normally spend too much time on, but this was just too intriguing to not stop and give it pause for a few minutes — two separate sources over the past week have said they believe Holland is kicking the tires on a potential Kane trade."

Kane does have some connections to the Kings organization. Most notable is L.A.'s GM Ken Holland, who signed the now 34-year-old back in 2022 while with the Edmonton Oilers. Kane also played with Corey Perry and Warren Foegele during his time with the Oilers. 

Kane was initially acquired by Vancouver during the off-season for a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. In 46 games this season, he has scored seven goals while recording 21 points. Kane leads the Canucks in penalty minutes with 55, while his 76 hits rank third on the team. 

Jan 2, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Evander Kane (91) gets up after a check against the Seattle Kraken in the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Jan 2, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Evander Kane (91) gets up after a check against the Seattle Kraken in the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline is scheduled for March 6 at noon PT. Vancouver is expected to be busy leading up to the deadline as they enter into rebuild mode. Based on Jim Rutherford's recent comments, it appears that the Canucks are open for business, which means plenty of rumours will circulate over the next few weeks. 

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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Lakers looking to package Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent in trade for wing

It’s no secret that the Lakers are trying to add a two-way wing to this roster via a trade.

The question is, how can they get that done while keeping the parts of their roster that are working well?

After all, the Lakers are still in the running for a top-four seed in the Western Conference, so any move has to be a combination of helping the team win now while also building for the future.

In a recent episode of “The Kevin O’Connor Show,” Kevin stated that the Lakers are trying to send out Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent in an attempt to acquire a wing.

Kevin O’Connor: “With the Lakers, the word on the street is that they’re looking to package Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent together for a wing.”

Vando is a good defender, but it’s clear the Lakers want a bit more offense from that position. For a moment, Vando was out of the rotation due to his offensive struggles, but with LA being so poor defensively, he is back to playing double-digit minutes in each contest.

On the season, Vanderbilt is averaging 5.1 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.

Vando is under contract for next season and has a player option for the following year, so LA getting out of that deal would be beneficial.

Vincent has a higher offensive upside than Vando, but he is also struggling to consistently produce. He is averaging 5.1 points and shooting just 33.7% from the field. Vincent is on the final year of his deal, so anyone interested in acquiring him can rest assured they aren’t committing to any long-term money.

The problem is, how many teams would actually be interested in a package where Vincent and Vanderbilt are the main players in a deal?

Perhaps adding some draft capital can get teams in on a Lakers trade? Los Angeles is reportedly trying to trade their 2032 first round pick for multiple future firsts. If they can accomplish that and add Vincent and Vando in a package, suddenly that’s a much better deal for the right franchise.

For now, this seems like the options the Lakers are exploring to improve their roster. Now, it’s up to the front office to execute on a deal and give Luka Dončić and LeBron James a shot at contention.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

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'Would Be Really Special": Patrick Kane Would Love Mike Modano On Hand To Witness History

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Detroit Red Wings forward Patrick Kane has already taken care of a historic matter of business, having become just the 50th player in NHL history to reach 500 goals scored. 

Now, he's got his sights trained on a new historic milestone that he's on the precipice of.

With 1,371 career points, Kane is only three points away from tying Mike Modano for most by a U.S.-born player in NHL history, and four away from taking sole ownership of the mark.  

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Kane, who grew up watching Modano's career and even played against him several times while a member of the Chicago Blackhawks, would welcome his presence in the venue whenever it is that he's on the verge of surpassing his points total.

"I haven't talked to him recently, maybe as it gets closer, we'll see what happens as we get closer to the number," Kane said. "But I read that he'd like to be in attendance for it, which would be pretty cool." 

Modano, a one-time former Red Wings forward who won the Stanley Cup as a member of the Dallas Stars with future Red Wings players like Brett Hull and Derian Hatcher, said in late November that he'd love to witness Kane break his record in person.

"I knew years ago that he might be one that if he stayed healthy, that he would be the guy that kind of goes after it," Modano said. "I'd love to be there and definitely would make the effort to be there for that one."

Like Kane in 2007, Modano was a former first-overall draft pick whose NHL career began with the Minnesota North Stars before the franchise relocated to Texas in 1993.

For Kane, having Modano on hand for such a historic milestone would make the moment even more special.

"It would be special, he was a player I really enjoyed watching when I was younger, the face of USA hockey for a long time," Kane said of Modano. "A lot of flair to his game with skill, speed, explosiveness, a fun player to watch, and one of the best American players of all time."

"Obviously, his numbers speak for themselves, but it would be a cool number to get to, and to have him here to be part of it would be pretty special."

That sentiment isn't lost on Kane's longtime teammate Alex DeBrincat, who, like Kane, grew up watching Modano. 

"It would be really cool," DeBrincat said. "It would be a passing of the torch moment and definitely cool for all parties involved for him to be in the building. I'm sure Kaner looks up to him, 

Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan, who coached against Modano both as an assistant with the Red Wings and early in his tenure as head coach of the San Jose Sharks, said it would be an honor to have Modano in Detroit to witness Kane breaking his points record.

"I think it would be great," McLellan said. "Hockey has a way of bringing legends out to big moments. Mike is recognized as one of the best American players of all time, and a former Red Wing, so to have him around if he's able, I'm sure he has a busy schedule, but if he's able and willing, it would certainly be an honor to host him." 

"Hopefully Kaner can get the job done on those nights." 

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