FORT MYERS, FL- FEBRUARY 28: Jared Shuster #84 of the Atlanta Braves pitches during a spring training game against the Minnesota Twins on February 28, 2023 at the Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Florida. (Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Minnesota Twins/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Well, Truck Day has come and gone. Spring Training action, though, is still some weeks away. That gives us ample time to speculate: with an unsettled 2025 season, there’s all sorts of opportunity for the narrative to take hold while the games don’t matter.
My memory goes back to “Shuise Control” and the time Jared Shuster and Dylan Dodd dominated — only for that to be largely moot for the season as a whole. But there are probably lots of others that can be pulled from the annals of Grapefruit League history as far as the Braves are concerned.
Anyway, what do you expect to dominate discussion in late February and March this year? Health or lack thereof from pitchers? Clarity, or fuzziness, on how Grant Holmes and Reynaldo Lopez fit into the pitching picture? Me? I want to see the bats do something in Spring Training that suggests they’re working on a new offensive approach — basically the opposite of last year’s Spring Training, where the bats were mostly just trying to get stuff over with as quickly as possible for whatever reason, with the added facet of using Spring Training as, well, training for what’s going to be put in place for the season offensively. Not sure how likely that is given last year in all sorts of respects, but it is what it is.
EASTLAKE, OH - APRIL 27: Zyhir Hope #51 of the Great Lakes Loons throws the ball back to the infield during the game between the Great Lakes Loons and the Lake County Captains at Classic Park on Sunday, April 27, 2025 in Eastlake, Ohio. (Photo by Lianna Holub/MiLB.com)
Josue De Paula is the top-ranked Dodgers prospect, which was telegraphed in November when the Baseball Prospectus team ranking list was released. On the national list, De Paula is ranked 14th this year, down a bit from ninth overall last preseason.
BP wasn’t just high on De Paula last year. They ranked his outfield teammate Zyhir Hope eighth overall, the highest 2025 rankings for both. This year, Hope is ranked 18th overall. The only outfield prospects ranked above De Paula and Hope are No. 1 overall Konnor Griffin, a Pirates shortstop/outfielder, plus Max Clark of the Tigers (sixth) and Carson Benge of the Mets (10th).
Hope hit .266/.376/.428 with a 131 wRC+, 13 home runs, 29 doubles, and 27 stolen bases in 127 games last season, the bulk of which for High-A Great Lakes before getting promoted to Double-A Tulsa for the final week of the season. He also played in the MLB Futures Game in Atlanta in July.
“A sub-70% contact rate in the low minors is a bright crimson flag, although Hope was less of a passive, pick-a-keyhole slugger in 2025 than previous years,” Jeffrey Paternostro wrote of Hope in November. “There’s some kinks to work out at the plate for sure, and he’s unlikely to bump above an average hit tool in the majors, but the on-base and slugging ability should still carry the day.”
Shortstop Emil Morales is the only non-outfielder Dodger ranked in BP’s top 101, checking in at 56th overall. That’s his highest ranking to date on the four top-100/101 lists he’s made
Players can be sent down if they are waiver exempt, except for players that played in 16 of the team's 20 NHL games prior to the freeze, or have been on the NHL roster for 80 league days prior to Jan 21
🚨PuckPedia Breaking News
During the Olympic Freeze from Feb 4 to Feb 22, no trades are permitted.
There are also restrictions on which players can be sent down during the freeze.
Players can be placed on waivers during the freeze, but if the player was waived after their NHL team's final game before the freeze, they do not have to report to their new team until February 17.
There are no restrictions on sending players down prior to the freeze.
For the New York Islanders, this means Calum Ritchie -- who has missed the past five games with a lower-body injury -- is unable to be sent down to Bridgeport in the American Hockey League since he has been on the NHL roster since October 31st, 2025, 82 days before Jan 21.
The only two other waiver-exempt players currently on the NHL roster are Matthew Schaefer and Maxim Shabanov, who have each been on the NHL roster for the entire season.
With the Islanders having just one game left before the 19-day break and sitting just four points ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets for a playoff spot, the front office will have plenty of time to evaluate the future ahead of the final stretch of the season and the March 6 trade deadline.
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - AUGUST 27: Jarren Duran #16, Ceddanne Rafaela #3 and Roman Anthony #19 of the Boston Red Sox celebrate after a 3-2 victory against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 27, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Yesterday, I wrote that I’m starting to accept the increasingly likely possibility that the Red Sox are not going to add an infielder before opening day, leaving second base to be covered by a platoon of Romy Gonzalez and David Hamilton. It seems to me to be a clear case of roster mismanagement to enter the season with holes in the infield while the outfield remains overcrowded (arguably for the second year in a row). And yet, Craig Breslow doesn’t seem to mind. In fact, a new report says that the Red Sox are exploring the possibility of adding yet another outfielder, specifically a right-handed one in an attempt to balance out the lineup. (Katie Woo, Will Sammon, The Athletic)
There’s no question that the Red Sox lineup could really use a right-handed bat, even if there doesn’t seem to be much room for one that doesn’t come with an infield glove. But they will begin the season with a little extra wiggle room in the DH rotation, as Triston Casas is not expected to be “full go” until at least the start of May. But that still leaves five players for four spots, even before any hypothetical right-handed outfielder is added to the mix. (Ian Browne, MLB.com)
Perhaps they’re pivoting to the outfield because they’ve given up Isaac Paredes (to the extent that they were ever seriously in on him, that is). The General Manager of the Houston Astros, Dan Brown, recently stated that they are planning on having Paredes in the lineup this year, though the repeated “right nows” in this statement seem to leave a lot of wiggle room:
Do you think it's likely that both Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker are on your roster when you get to camp?
Dana Brown: "Right now, both of them are still part of our roster and we have plans for both of them to play. Right now, our plan is for both of them to be there."
And let’s face it, beyond Paredes and the pipe dream of Nico Hoerner, there just isn’t that much exciting infield talent out there. Ramon Urias has been named as a possibility and the Sox have checked in on him, but they don’t seem too tempted and have shown only “lukewarm interest” in him. (Chris Cotillo, MassLive)
Though the Sox have procrastinated in the infield, they continue to be very active in adding minor league pitchers. The latest addition is 33-year-old Kyle Keller, who has spent the last four years finding success as a reliever for the Hanshin Tigers and Yomiuri Giants in Japan. (Chris Cotillo, MassLive)
The Edmonton Oilers head south to face the Calgary Flames for the Battle of Alberta at the Scotiabank Saddledome tonight.
My Oilers vs. Flames predictions and top NHL picks are calling for Edmonton to win the rivalry’s final installment of the season tonight.
Oilers vs Flames prediction
Oilers vs Flames best bet: Oilers moneyline (-130)
The Edmonton Oilers allowing a pair of power-play tallies and an empty-net goal in the third period to lose 5-2 to the Maple Leafs on Tuesday has provided an excellent price on Edmonton against the Calgary Flames tonight.
Calgary is 1-4-2 since trading defenseman Rasmus Andersson, and the Flames have scored the fewest goals per game (1.72) during the stretch.
This is also a bounce-back spot for Edmonton, and I think the Oilers playing for the second consecutive night is more than priced in, given the proximity of the two cities.
Oilers vs Flames same-game parlay
In addition to the highlighted offensive shortcomings in Calgary, the Flames have also only hit the Over in two of their past 13 games. The Oilers are sporting the lowest team save percentage at 5-on-5 during the same stretch, too, so I’m anticipating improvement in net for Edmonton tonight to help keep this total Under the number.
Turning to Edmonton winger Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, he’s marked the scoresheet in 11 of 16 games since the calendar flipped to January. Skating with superstar Connor McDavid at 5-on-5 and with the No. 1 power-play is a huge help, with Nugent-Hopkins and No. 97 being on the ice for an elite 6.77 goals per 60 minutes this season.
The Flames have only cashed the Over in two of their last 13 games for -7.75 units and a -55% ROI. Find more NHL betting trends for Oilers vs. Flames.
How to watch Oilers vs Flames
Location
Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB
Date
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Puck drop
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
Sportsnet
Oilers vs Flames latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Three-game win streaks are on the line Wednesday as the Boston Celtics travel to Toyota Center to face the Houston Rockets.
With Anfernee Simons traded to the Chicago Bulls, my Celtics vs. Rockets predictions call for a strong performance from Payton Pritchard.
Here are my best free NBA picks for this marquee matchup on Wednesday, February 4.
Celtics vs Rockets prediction
Celtics vs Rockets best bet: Payton Pritchard Over 24.5 points + rebounds + assists (-112)
Payton Pritchard is averaging a career-best 26.5 PRA this season, and he’s gone for 25+ in 23 of 49 appearances.
He’s posting 24.7 at home compared to 28 on the road, and he's gone for 25+ in 14 of 24 away games.
The Boston Celtics’ electric guard has been even more productive as of late, averaging 28.2 PRA across his last seven games. He’s hit the Over on this line four times in that span, including a 26/4/7 showing in Tuesday's win over the Dallas Mavericks.
Pritchard shifted to the bench in favor of Baylor Scheierman against the Mavs, but he still saw 35 minutes as Boston kept its lineup tight.
Pritchard finished with just 19 PRA in his first matchup with the Houston Rockets, but he saw only 26 minutes in that game. Since January 1, he’s logged 32.4 minutes per game, including 33.9 minutes per game on the road.
With Anfernee Simons traded to the Chicago Bulls, Pritchard should be in line for big minutes and big numbers.
Celtics vs Rockets same-game parlay
The Celtics got smoked in their last matchup with the Rockets, but they're playing better basketball now and should keep this one competitive.
Boston is 16-10 ATS on the road and 6-3 ATS as the road underdog, while Houston is 8-13 ATS at home and 8-12 as the home favorite.
Boston allows the second-fewest points per game this season, and Houston allows the fourth-fewest. The Celtics and Rockets have each hit the Under in eight of their last 10 games.
Houston is 7-13-1 O/U at home, and Boston is 10-16 O/U on the road.
Celtics vs Rockets SGP
Payton Pritchard Over 24.5 points + rebounds + assists
Celtics +5.5
Under 216
Our "from downtown" SGP: Sengun stuffs stat sheet
Alperen Sengun has hit the Over on this combo line in four straight, and I expect him to extend that streak tonight. He's averaging 16.8 rebounds + assists at home, and he's gone for 16+ in 12 of 17 at Toyota Center.
Celtics vs Rockets SGP
Payton Pritchard Over 24.5 points + rebounds + assists
Celtics +5.5
Under 216
Alperen Sengun Over 15.5 rebounds + assists
Celtics vs Rockets odds
Spread: Boston +5.5 (-110) | Houston -5.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Boston +180 | Houston -220
Over/Under: Over 216 (-110) | Under 216 (-110)
Celtics vs Rockets betting trend to know
The Rockets have hit the Under in 17 of their last 21 games (+12.60 Units / 55% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Celtics vs. Rockets.
How to watch Celtics vs Rockets
Location
Toyota Center, Houston, TX
Date
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Tip-off
8:00 p.m. ET
TV
Space City Home Network, NBC Sports Boston
Celtics vs Rockets latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here
Just over a year after being traded to Dallas for Luka Doncic, the Mavericks have reportedly dealt Anthony Davis to the Wizards as part of an 8-player deal, according to multiple reports.
ESPN’s Shams Charania is reporting the Mavericks are sending the 10-time All-Star to Washington along with Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum. In exchange, Charania said the Mavericks will receive Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, two first-round picks and three second-rounders.
“Dallas is receiving a 2026 Thunder first-round pick and a 2030 protected Warriors first-round pick in this deal from the Wizards along with second-rounders in 2026 (Phoenix), 2027 (Chicago) and 2029 (Houston),” Charania tweeted.
Davis came to Dallas with a long history of injury issues and aggravated an abdominal strain in his debut. In his year with the team, he has missed more games than he has played for Dallas due to various ailments and he’s currently out until after the All-Star break with ligament damage in his left hand.
When he’s been healthy for the Mavs, Davis has averaged 20 points per game and nearly 30 minutes on the court per game. For the Wizards, Davis will join point guard Trae Young as the second former All-Star acquired in a trade this season.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - FEBRUARY 03: Ryan Rollins #13 of the Milwaukee Bucks dribbles the ball against Lachlan Olbrich #47 of the Chicago Bulls during the third quarter at Fiserv Forum on February 03, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 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 Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Milwaukee Bucks started their three-game homestand with a win against the Chicago Bulls 131-115. Despite a scare in the third quarter, the Bucks held off the Bulls and coasted to the win in the fourth. Milwaukee won the season series against Chicago, taking the first three games of their four-game set. Read our full summary of the game here and catch a six-minute audio recap on the Bucks+ podcast, Bucks In Six Minutes, below.
He did pick up a couple of early fouls, but other than that, it was a good game for Turner. I’m interested in how he will be used if Giannis and KPJ come back, but I hope this time has shown the coaching staff there’s a lot more to use Turner in other than spot-up shooting.
What a game it was for Rollins. He hit a vital three-pointer to stem the tide that the Bulls were throwing the Bucks’ way. You can’t ask for much more from a player who gives you a 21-point and 10-assist double-double.
It was a solid night for Dairy Bird, who helped Milwaukee with their initial run to take the lead against Chicago. It wasn’t all just catch-and-shoot threes for Green, as he continues to expand his three-point arsenal.
Coffey got the nod in the starting lineup with Bobby Portis as a late scratch. He didn’t look good at all, and there’s a reason he’s typically a bench warmer when everyone is healthy.
After some rough performances, this was a much-needed game for Sims. He was active on the boards and aggressive in the right spots. The only true lowlight was him falling to the floor as Buzelis nailed a three (even if it might have been an offensive foul).
These are the type of games they need to see from Anthony moving forward. He needs to play within himself and fill the box score with contributions beyond scoring.
Grade: B-
Gary Trent Jr.
23 minutes, 15 points, 5/8 3P, +17
Out of everyone on the Bucks who needed a good shooting performance the most, it was Trent. He’s had a significant drop-off from last year, but he tied a season high in three-point makes with five. He’s only done that twice this season, once in the season opener against the Wizards and against the Heat back in November.
Keep giving this man more minutes. Nance showed off all his skills, especially his basketball IQ and shooting. There were times he was outmatched on defense, but he gave full effort all night.
Even with the Bucks missing five rotational players, Jackson continues to get the short end of the minutes. He looked ok during his time on the court, but unless there is a coaching change, I don’t see Jackson sticking in Milwaukee past this season.
Grade: C+
Doc Rivers
It’s hard to give Doc much praise considering the Bucks finally made their shots. Yet, if Doc’s game plan was for them to attempt 38 threes, then I have to give him credit for it.
Grade: C+
Garbage Time: Thanasis Antetokounmpo
Inactive: Alex Antetokounmpo, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Gary Harris, Kevin Porter Jr., Bobby Portis Jr., Taurean Prince
Bonus Bucks Bits
We received injury updates before the game about a couple of Bucks guards. Kevin Porter Jr. is close to returning from his oblique injury, according to Doc Rivers. He could be back as early as today or as late as Friday against the Indiana Pacers.
Gary Harris, on the other hand, will be out for the next couple of games, and potentially longer.
This was the third career game in which Rollins has dished out 10 or more assists. He was asked about which area in his playmaking has improved the most after the game:
“I’m just making the right reads and getting down hill. Just letting the game develop for me and I’m not forcing things and forcing my shots too early.”
With the trade deadline just a day away, Kuzma was asked how he handles the distraction of it all:
“Me personally, I manage it because this is year nine and I’ve been in trade deadlines since I came into the NBA. My experince is a lot different from others, I’m going to go home after this and go to sleep. I sleep every night, I don’t think about it too much, but when you’re a younger player it’s a little bit different. If you’re a guy on the bench, it’s a lot different. We’re all human and you really can’t esacape it. You can’t escape the talks, you can’t escape because of the world we live in, but they pay us the big bucks. It doesn’t matter if you get traded the next day, whoop-de-do. It’s a buisness and we’re all like contractors and we move and play and it’s just how it goes.”
The Bucks set a new season best with 23 made three-pointers, shooting 60.5%. It’s the first time since December 5, 2023 that the Bucks have shot over 60% from deep.
Pete Nance also put up a season high 15 points, and was just two points shy of tying his career high in scoring.
Up Next
Last night was the first game of a back-to-back at home. They will host the New Orleans Pelicans today with draft lottery implications on the line. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Central and will be televised on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin.
The Vancouver Canucks (18–32–6) take part in their final game before the 2026 Winter Olympic break when they face the Vegas Golden Knights (25–16–14) later tonight. This marks the final game of the Canucks’ mom’s trip, with the team’s first game resulting in a 6–2 loss to the Utah Mammoth on Monday. Vegas’ last game took place on Sunday, during which they lost by a score of 4–3 to the Anaheim Ducks. Tonight’s match is not the Golden Knights’ last before the break, however, as they will also face the Los Angeles Kings tomorrow night.
This is the first time the Canucks and Golden Knights will face each other this season, as the two teams’ other matchups aren’t until March 30 and April 7. By the time they face each other again, Vancouver and Vegas will likely have their respective post-season fates locked-down.
Vegas will be a desperate team heading into tonight’s game, as the Golden Knights’ last win came against the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 23. Throughout their current five-game losing streak, Vegas has dropped all but one of their games by a single goal. Two of these losses were against Pacific Division teams.
For the Canucks, a win tonight would be a good morale booster as the team prepares to enter the 2026 Winter Olympic break. After a long stretch of losses as well as injury after injury, Vancouver will benefit from a break to re-set and rest during what has undoubtedly been a difficult season.
Players To Watch:
Teddy Blueger
Since returning to the Canucks’ lineup on January 21 against the Washington Capitals, Teddy Blueger has scored four goals and tallied one assist. The centre’s presence in Vancouver’s lineup has been greatly missed from both a defensive and depth perspective, though the fact that he’s been contributing offensively definitely helps. As a pending UFA and soon-to-be Olympian for Team Latvia at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Blueger will be a player to watch as the Canucks take part in their final game before the break.
Pavel Dorofeyev
Dorofeyev has gotten off to an impressive start for Vegas this season, putting together a team-leading 24 goals as well as 17 assists. He’s already 12 points away from setting a new career-high with 27 games remaining in the Golden Knights’ season. Throughout his past 10 games, the forward has scored seven goals and potted one assist, though his point totals have been limited to three throughout his team’s five-game losing streak.
Feb 22, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights left wing Brandon Saad (20) skates ahead of Vancouver Canucks left wing Jake DeBrusk (74) during the third period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
Vancouver Canucks (18–32–6):
Points:
Elias Pettersson: 13–21–34
Filip Hronek: 5–27–32
Jake DeBrusk: 13–15–28
Brock Boeser: 12–13–25
Evander Kane: 9–16–25
Goaltenders:
Thatcher Demko: 8–10–1
Kevin Lankinen: 7–18–4
Nikita Tolopilo: 3–3–1
Jiří Patera: 0–1–0
Vegas Golden Knights (25–16–14):
Points:
Jack Eichel: 19–45–64
Mitch Marner: 15–41–56
Mark Stone: 20–35–55
Tomáš Hertl: 22–26–48
Pavel Dorofeyev: 24–17–41
Goaltenders:
Akira Schmid: 15–6–6
Carter Hart: 5–3–3
Adin Hill: 3–3–3
Carl Lindbom: 2–4–2
Game Information:
Start time: 7:00 pm PT
Venue: T-Mobile Arena
Television: Sportsnet
Radio: Sportsnet 650
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.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 29: Brad Stevens, president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics, leaves a press conference at Boston Celtics media day at the Auerbach Center on September 29, 2025 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 Winslow Townson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Yesterday’s big trade finally solved the glaring issue of needing more center depth (with all due respect to Queta and Garza). It cost the Celtics some guard depth though. So will the team make another move to add a backup guard or go with what they have?
In theory Jayson Tatum coming back gives the Celtics the scoring punch that they are losing with Simons heading out. While Simons wasn’t exactly a “ball handler” or “distributor,” he was at least capable of bringing the ball up on occasion. Here again, Tatum (at nearly full speed) can help out in this regard.
Still, it would be nice to have a guy that can give us some point guard minutes in a pinch. Maybe that guy can be found in the buyout market (Mike Conley? CP3?). Or maybe there’s someone kicking around the G-League that could use a call-up.
Or maybe there’s another deal out there that Brad is looking into. I’m not sure why the Bulls seem to have a team full of guards and couldn’t throw one of them our way in yesterday’s deal (well, technically they haven’t completed the deal yet and could expand it in the coming days). After a relatively quiet month, things sure are picking up lately.
So what do you think? Is Brad done dealing before the deadline? Or is he going to keep making moves?
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 04: Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after defeating the Miami Marlins 7-1 in Game Two of the Wild Card Series at Citizens Bank Park on October 04, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) | Getty Images
FanGraphs has published their projected playoff odds, which means the season draws near. Soon we will have real baseball to bicker and banter over between ourselves. But in the meantime, we can argue over playoff odds. The Phillies are projected by FanGraphs to have a 65.7% chance to make the playoffs, and an 18.9% chance to defend their NL East Title. Both the Braves and the Mets are given better playoff and division odds.
Today’s question is: What do you think of FanGraph’s projections for the Phillies? Too pessimistic? Too optimistic? About right? Make your case.
BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 28: Jeremiah Jackson #82 of the Baltimore Orioles fields a ground ball during a game against the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 28, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Jeremiah Jackson made his major league debut the day after the Orioles traded Cedric Mullins to the Mets. The trade deadline marked the unofficial end to a season that was lost over the first two months. Any fans still tuning into MASN or MASN2 (RIP) on a given night were left looking for fun stories and surprise candidates to help the team in 2026 and beyond.
Enter Jackson—a 25-year-old looking to finally break into the big leagues after being selected by the Angels in the second round of the 2018 MLB draft. The Orioles signed Jackson as a minor-league free agent prior to the start of last season.
Jackson had never exceeded Double-A during his time with Los Angeles or a stint in the Mets’ organization. The former Mobile, Alabama resident slashed .254/.291/.412 over the first two months with Chesapeake, but he became a star of Camden Chat’s minor league recaps once he reached Triple-A.
Jackson slashed .377/.400/.673 with 11 homers and 22 RBIs over 40 games with Norfolk. The same guy that hit a measly .205/.245/.373 over 122 games at Double-A the year prior now featured an OPS over 1.000.
Baltimore’s front office took notice. With plenty of holes to plug, the Orioles recalled Jackson and cut him loose. The team had room in the lineup without guys like Mullins and Ryan O’Hearn, but Jackson arrived without a default position.
Jackson had made 12 appearances at second, 50 at shortstop, 13 at third, two in left field, and one in right between Chesapeake and Norfolk. Shortstop was out of the question with Gunnar Henderson on the roster, and Jackson Holliday wasn’t going to be displaced at second base. Jordan Westburg needed to start at either second or third.
Jackson spent a majority of August playing right field, but third base opened up when Westburg sprained his ankle. At the end of the year, Jackson had 34 major league appearances in right, 13 at third and one game at second base.
The rookie brought his hot bat to the big leagues and slashed .276/.328/.447 over 170 at bats. He went deep five times, drove in 21, and scored 20. With those numbers and an infielder/outfielder position, Jackson immediately emerged as the leading candidate for Baltimore’s “utility” position in 2026.
Jackson made for a tremendous story, and he’ll hold value as long as he continues to swing like that. But there’s one elephant in the room here—is Jackson really a “utility man?”
A utility infielder traditionally possess the ability to play shortstop, and a utility outfielder must play a respectable center field. Jackson has never played either of those positions at the major league level.
Jackson played plenty of shortstop in the minors, but would new skipper Craig Albernaz trust him in big league action? Holliday could play the position with Westburg sliding over to second if Henderson needed a breather.
The Orioles could definitely use another bench option in center field behind Colton Cowser, but Jackson hasn’t played the position since logging 14 games at Double-A in 2023. The Orioles roster is filled with corner outfielders, and it remains to be seen whether Baltimore would trust Dylan Beavers to play up the middle. If not, Leody Taveras appears to be the favorite while Enrique Bradfield Jr. gets at bats at Triple-A.
Jackson exceeded his rookie limits last season, but he still holds three minor-league options. The Orioles could send Jackson to Norfolk to hone his defensive skills. Bradfield Jr. doesn’t need the defensive reps, and the organization routinely bounces players around the infield in the minors.
Baltimore’s lineup possesses significant fire power at full strength. Pete Alonso adds even more power potential to Coby Mayo and Ryan Mountcastle at first base, while Henderson, Westburg and Holliday all feature All-Star potential. The outfield corners are littered with guys like Beavers, Taylor Ward, Tyler O’Neill and maybe even a healthy Heston Kjerstad.
This team needs a utility player that it can trust on the defensive side of the ball. The Birds will have Jackson’s defense under a microscope in Sarasota. If he passes the eye test, he could head north with a roster spot. If not, he’ll qualify as valuable offensive depth for injury-prone guys like Westburg and O’Neill.
Chicago Blackhawks - 21-24-9 - 51 Points - 3-5-2 in the last 10 - Lost 2 - 6th in the Central
Columbus Blue Jackets - 25-20-7 - 57 Points - 7-3-0 in the last 10 - Won 3 - 5th in the Metro.
Team Notes Per CBJ PR
Columbus has won a season-high six-straight games, as well as 10 of its past 11 games overall, while outscoring opponents 42-26 since Jan. 11 following its 3-0 victory at New Jersey last night.
CBJ lead the NHL in wins, points pct. (.909) and team save percentage (.916) and rank second in goals-against/game(2.36), sixth-T in goals for/game (3.82) and seventh in power play pct. (29.6) over that stretch.
The club has scored the opening goal in nine of the past 11 games and has scored the first goal in 33 contests, tied for fourth-most in the NHL in 2025-26.
Columbus leads the NHL in goals by defensemen and ranks fourth in points with 42-98-140 in 55 contests.
CBJ conclude their 11th of 16 back-to-back sets of the season (13-5-3 .690 pts. pct;) vs. Chicago tonight.
The Jackets have allowed two power play goals over the last eight contests and lead the league in penalty kill pct. since Jan. 17 (91.7 pct., 1st in NHL; 22-of-24).
Player Notes Per CBJ PR
Charlie Coyle has notched 9-6-15 in the last 11 contests and ranks second-T in the NHL in goals since Jan. 11.
Jet Greaves (5-0-0, 2.47 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO) and G Elvis Merzlikins (5-1-0, 2.03 GAA, .925 SV%, 1 SO) have each won five games for the Blue Jackets since Jan. 11.
Boone Jenner (203 career assists) is one assist from tying RW David Vyborny for the third-most all-time in CBJ history.
Kirill Marchenko, who missed last night's game due to illness, has points in his past four games (1-4-5) and in 15 of his last 19 contests since Dec. 22 (9-11-20).
Mathieu Olivier (two goals at New Jersey) has notched multiple points in three of the past four games (4-2-6).
Zach Werenski has recorded assists in five-straight games (8 assists) and points in six consecutive (1-8-9). He leads NHL blueliners in goals (tied, 19), points (61), multi-point efforts (20), points-per-game (1.20), even strength goals (16), even strength points (45) and shots on goal (181) this season.
Blue Jackets Stats
Power Play - 19.9% - 18th in the NHL
Penalty Kill - 76.9% - 28th in the NHL
Goals For - 170 - 18th in the NHL
Goals Against - 176 - 21st in the NHL
BlackhawksStats
Power Play - 19.5% - 19th in the NHL
Penalty Kill - 85.6% - 1st in the NHL
Goals For - 151 - 26th in the NHL
Goals Against - 176 - 20th in the NHL
Series History vs. TheBlackhawks
Columbus is 43-46-2-13 all-time, and 22-21-1-8 at home vs. Chicago.
The Blue Jackets are 7-0-1 in the last 8 games of the series and have won 6-straight overall.
The winning team has scored four or more goals in 11-straight meetings and 13 of the last 15 in the series overall since Feb. 11, 2021.
The CBJ beat the Blackhawks 4-2 on January 30th
The winning team has won by multiple goals in each of the past nine meetings, including seven instances of by at least three goals.
The teams have combined for six-plus goals in 12 of the past 15 contests, including nine with seven or more goals.
The Blue Jackets have recorded a power play goal in six of the past eight meetings (6-of-21; 28.6 pct.).
Who To Watch For TheBlackhawks
Tyler Bertuzzi leads the Blackhawks with 25 goals.
Connor Bedard leads Chicago with 30 assists and 53 points.
Goalie Spencer Knight is 16-17-7 with a SV% of .909.
Arvid Soderblom is 5-9-2 with a SV% of .874.
CBJ Player Notes vs.Blackhawks
Zach Werenski has 21 points in 19 career games vs. the Blackhawks.
Boone Jenner has 12 points in 23 games.
Charlie Coyle has 15 points in 39 games against Chicago.
Injured Reserve
Brendan Smith - Lower Body - Missed 17 Games IR - Out for the rest of the regular season.
TOTAL MAN GAMES LOST: 153
How to Watch & Listen: Tonight's game will be on FANDUEL SPORTS NETWORK. The radio broadcast will be on 97.1 The Fan, with Bob McElligott behind the mic doing the play-by-play.
Stay updated with the most interesting Blue Jackets stories, analysis, breaking news, and more!
Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News and never miss a story.
Let us know what you think below.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
The NBA was busy yesterday afternoon with a handful of big names changing teams. The biggest of those trades saw James Harden on the move once again in his career. The 9-time All-Star is now a Cleveland Cavalier. Ironically, the Cavs (30-21) take the court tonight against his old team, the Los Angeles Clippers (23-26) in Southern California.
This is the fifth time the veteran has been traded in his career. In 2012 the former Arizona State Sun Devil was traded from OKC to Houston. In 2021 Harden went from Houston to Brooklyn before going from Brooklyn to Philly in 2022. His stay in Philly was brief as he was traded from the Sixers to the Clippers in 2023 before landing in Cleveland yesterday.
The backcourt in Cleveland is possibly the league’s best…on the offensive end.
The Clippers now employ Darius Garland, the son of former Clipper Winston Garland. The Cavs’ point guard has played well – 18PPG and 6.9AST – but has played sparingly due to foot and toe injuries.
Neither Garland nor Harden is expected to play for their new teams tonight, but we can expect to see the NBA’s 6th-leading scorer, Donovan Mitchell (28.8PPG), and a resurgent Kawhi Leonard (27.6PPG).
This is the second of two games scheduled between these teams this season. The Cavs won on November 23, 120-105, in Cleveland. Donovan Mitchell had 37 points to lead the Cavaliers to the win.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on how to catch tipoff, odds courtesy of DraftKings recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
After 24 years, the NBA is back on NBC and Peacock, combining the nostalgia of an iconic era with the innovative future of basketball coverage. The NBA on NBC YouTube channel delivers fans must-see highlights, analysis, and exclusive and unique content.
Game Details and How to Watch Live: Cavaliers at Clippers
Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Time: 10:30PM EST
Site: Intuit Dome
City: Inglewood, CA
Network/Streaming: FDSN Ohio, FDSN SoCal
Rotoworld has you covered with all the latest NBA Player News for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!
Game Odds: Cavaliers at Clippers
The latest odds as of Wednesday courtesy of DraftKings:
Moneyline: Cleveland Cavaliers (-130), Los Angeles Clippers (+110)
Spread: Cavaliers -2.5
Total: 223.5 points
This game opened Cavaliers -1.5 with the Total set at 221.5.
Be sure to check out DraftKings for all the latest game odds & player props for every matchup this week on the NBA schedule!
James Harden (personal) is doubtful for tonight’s game
Evan Mobley (calf) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Max Strus (foot) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Los Angeles Clippers
Darius Garland (toe) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
TyTy Washington (hamstring) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Bradley Beal (hip) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Chris Paul (susp) has been declared OUT for tonight’s game
Important stats, trends and insights: Cavaliers at Clippers
The Cavaliers are 13-10 on the road this season
The Clippers are 13-10 at home this season
The Clippers are 24-25 ATS this season
The Cavaliers are 20-31 ATS this season
The OVER has cashed in 24 of the Clippers’ 49 games this season (24-25)
The OVER has cashed in 24 of the Cavaliers’ 51 games this season (24-27)
Kawhi Leonard has scored at least 20 points in each of his last 28 games
Jaylon Tyson has totaled at least 4 assists in 7 of his last 8 games
Jarrett Allen has pulled down at least 9 rebounds in 4 of his last 7 games
Rotoworld Best Bet
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NBA calendar based on data points like recent performance, head-to-head player matchups, trends information and projected game totals.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projections next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s Cavaliers and Clippers’ game:
Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Cavaliers on the Moneyline
Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Cavaliers -2.5 ATS
Total: Rotoworld Bet is staying away from a play on the Game Total of 223.5
Want even more NBA best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert NBA Predictions page from NBC Sports for money line, spread and over/under picks for every game on today’s calendar!
If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NBA Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:
