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What James Hagens starting in Providence means for top prospect and Bruins

What James Hagens starting in Providence means for top prospect and Bruins originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

James Hagens is starting his pro career with the AHL’s Providence Bruins, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Boston Bruins fans won’t see him play in the NHL at some point this season.

The Bruins signed their top prospect to an AHL amateur tryout contract (ATO) late Monday night.

“We’re very excited to have James join the Bruins organization and take this next step,” Bruins general manager Don Sweeney said in a press release.

“James is an important part of our future, and this is a great opportunity for him to get immediate experience at the professional level in Providence and continue his development, while keeping all options open.”

Hagens was selected by the Bruins with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. He is their best prospect in at least a decade and is coming off a stellar sophomore year at Boston College during which he tallied a career-high 47 points (23 goals, 24 assists) in 34 games.

Some fans might be disappointed that Hagens hasn’t yet signed his entry-level contract to join the Bruins. And that’s understandable. The hype around Hagens is immense. But there’s no harm in getting him some AHL experience, and the B’s still have the option to sign him to his ELC and elevate him to the NHL before the end of the season if they want.

What does it all mean, and how could Hagens find himself in the NHL this season? Let’s break it down.

What happens now?

Hagens practiced with Providence on Tuesday and likely will make his AHL debut Wednesday when the P-Bruins play Springfield. Providence also has games scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.

Hagens is essentially in tryout mode. If he plays well in Providence, the chances of him reaching the NHL this season improve (more on that shortly).

What are the Bruins’ options?

Hagens signing an AHL ATO gives both the Bruins and Hagens more options than if he just signed his ELC right off the bat.

New NHL contracts signed after the trade deadline prevent players from playing in the AHL that season. Therefore, by going to Providence first, Hagens is eligible to play for the Providence Bruins and in the AHL playoffs.

The P-Bruins are No. 1 in the Eastern Conference standings and expected to make a deep run in the Calder Cup Playoffs. The intensity of the AHL playoffs is a step up in competition from NCAA hockey, so those reps would be beneficial for Hagens.

The Bruins can also sign Hagens to his ELC if they want him on the NHL roster this season. Signing his AHL ATO doesn’t prevent him from going to the NHL at some point this year.

Keeping Hagens in the AHL through the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign would ensure that his ELC does not begin until next season. If he signed his ELC this season, he’d burn one of its three years. In that scenario, his ELC would end after the 2027-28 season, instead of after the 2028-29 campaign.

How Hagens could make it to NHL this season

James HagensMatthew J. Lee/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
James Hagens won Beanpot MVP this season with BC.

The AHL-to-NHL path is pretty common, even for prospects of Hagens’ caliber. The transition to minor league hockey is obviously easier than the NHL, especially in the Bruins’ current situation where they are fighting for a playoff spot.

The B’s, with 12 regular season games remaining and a slim two-point lead in the wild card race, are not in a position to develop young prospects and allow them to make mistakes. The stakes are too high in Boston right now. Every point in the standings is critically important.

That said, Hagens could still find himself wearing the spoked-B if one or more of a few different scenarios unfold, including…

1. Injuries test the Bruins’ depth

Similar to Hagens, Charlie McAvoy began his pro career with an AHL amateur tryout agreement and reported to Providence after his Boston University season ended in 2017.

McAvoy could have remained in the AHL the rest of that season, but the Bruins’ blue line was so decimated by injuries entering their first-round playoff series against the Ottawa Senators that they pretty much had to call up McAvoy. He didn’t look out of place, either. McAvoy played very well in the six games versus the Senators.

If the Bruins were to be hit by injuries at center or on the wing between now and the playoffs, the best player in Providence to call up would be Hagens given his impressive offensive skill set.

2. Hagens forces Bruins’ hand by dominating in AHL

If Hagens is lighting up the stat sheet and making a huge impact offensively for Providence, it’s possible the Bruins just call him up and hope he can carry that success to the NHL level.

The Bruins need to play with more speed, and there is a lack of high-end playmaking and goal-scoring talent throughout their roster. Hagens has the skill set to address all three of those concerns in the near future.

Expectations for Hagens if he reaches NHL this spring

Hagens has enormous talent and potential, and many experts (including yours truly) project him to be a top-six forward for a long time.

However, there are several recent examples of forwards who were a first-round pick and joined their NHL team soon after leaving college and did not produce at a high level that season. It doesn’t mean they won’t be great NHL players; it just shows how hard it is to make the transition to the NHL immediately after ending your college career.

  • Cole Caufield, Wisconsin (No. 15 overall, 2019 draft, MTL): 4 goals, 1 assist in 10 games played
  • Kent Johnson, Michigan (No. 5, 2021, CBJ): 0 goals, 3 assists in 9 GP
  • Matty Beniers, Michigan (No. 2, 2022, SEA): 3 goals, 6 assists in 10 GP
  • Ryan Leonard, Boston College (No. 8, 2023, WSH): 1 goal, 0 assists in 9 GP
  • Matthew Wood, Minnesota (No. 15, 2023, NSH): 0 goals, 1 assist in 6 GP
  • Gabriel Perreault, Boston College (No. 23, 2023, NYR): 0 goals, 0 assists in 5 GP

Two of those examples are Hagens’ former linemates at BC, Ryan Leonard and Gabe Perreault.

Leonard joined the Washington Capitals late last season after BC’s campaign ended. Leonard, like Hagens, was a top-10 pick and played two years for the Eagles before turning pro.

Leonard scored one goal with zero assists in nine regular season games for the Capitals, then tallied one assist in eight 2025 playoff games with Washington. He wasn’t productive offensively, but the experience did help him make a jump this season. Leonard has 36 points (15 goals, 21 assists) in 64 games so far.

Perreault also made the transition to the NHL late last season and went scoreless with five shots in five games for the New York Rangers.

What would be fair expectations for Hagens if he does join the Bruins this season? Don’t get exposed defensively, create scoring chances and push the pace in transition. He would also need to prove he can win 50-50 puck battles and not be overmatched physically.

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Mets Morning News: Welcome to the show, Carson Benge

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL - MARCH 09: Carson Benge (93) of the New York Mets looks on while waiting to bat during a spring training game against the Miami Marlins on March 09, 2026 at Clover Park in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Meet the Mets

The Mets finally announced that Carson Benge will be on the team’s Opening Day roster, which felt like an inevitability after his incredible spring training performance.

Anthony DiComo offered some predictions for the team heading into the season.

Writing for SNY, John Harper made his predictions for the Mets’ season.

Tim Britton talked about the Mets’ easy early season schedule, which he says the team should not waste.

Craig Kimbrel will remain with the Mets after missing out on the Opening Day roster, saying, “I am going to stay down here in Florida and stay ready.”

Around the National League East

Todd Zolecki made his predictions for the Phillies’ season.

Spencer Strider will begin the season on the IL with an oblique injury.

Spencer Nusbaum took us inside the Nationals’ vision for fans and the future.

Around Major League Baseball

The MLB.com staff highlighted the most important thing we learned from each team’s camp this spring.

Will Leitch shared the Power Rankings heading into Opening Day.

Experts predicted the stats leaders across MLB this season.

Theo DeRosa explored who might be the top award winners in MLB in 2026.

Sarah Langs identified some players how are on the precipice of reaching career milestones during the upcoming MLB season.

A jersey Shohei Ohtani worn during the WBC sold for a boat load of money.

The Cubs and Pete Crow-Armstrong have agreed to a contract extension.

The Blue Jays and GM Ross Adkins have also agreed on a five-year extension.

Ben Rice has landed an endorsement deal with…Ben’s Rice, the endorsement deal he was born to have.

Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt made the Opening Day roster.

Andrew McCutchen made the Opening Day roster for the Rangers as he prepares for his 18th season.

Rangers manager Skip Schumaker let reliever Carter Baumler know he had made the major league roster during a mound visit.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Grace Carbone explained why 2026 is of the utmost importance for David Peterson in her season preview.

Thomas Henderson previewed Bo Bichette’s 2026 campaign, which could see the Mets and Bichette turning a marriage of convenience into something special.

Chris McShane looked at how Sean Manaea may be able to bounce back during the 2026 season as he previewed what is hopefully a comeback season for the left-hander.

Linus Lawrence brought us Mets Madness: Elite Eight.

This Date in Mets History

You can trace the birth of Shea Stadium back to this date in 1961, when the New York State Senate approved $55 million in funding to build what would become the new home of the Mets in Queens, New York.

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Yankees 2026 Season Preview: Randal Grichuk

TAMPA, FLORIDA - MARCH 15, 2026: Randal Grichuk #34 of the New York Yankees bats during the first inning of a game against the Detroit Tigers at George M. Steinbrenner Field on March 15, 2026 in Tampa, Florida. The Tigers beat the Yankees, 12-1. (Photo by Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

Heading into the spring, Jasson Domínguez was the consensus pick for the Yankees’ fourth outfielder spot, as the former top prospect, now headed into his sophomore season, would be the team’s number one option in the event one of Cody Bellinger, Trent Grisham, Giancarlo Stanton, or — baseball gods forbid — Aaron Judge had to miss significant time. As the roster currently stands, the Martian, despite being optioned to Triple-A Scranton, remains in that role, and in truth, it would be very surprising if he did not receive a call to the Show at for some extended run at some point this year; injuries are just a fact of life in baseball, after all.

But, as our very own Estevão wrote earlier this month, “Organizational depth and a quality bench…don’t necessarily mean the same thing.” Ever since the Yankees signed Randal Grichuk to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training late last month, it immediately became the expectation that he would be given the fourth outfielder job out of spring training, and that the Martian would return to Scranton to start the season — an expectation that became reality this week.

2025 Stats (Arizona, Kansas City): 113 games, 293 plate appearances, .228/.273/.401, 9 HR, 27 RBI, 18 doubles, 82 wRC+, 20.8 K%, 5.8 BB%, -2 Defensive Runs Saved, -2 Outs Above Average, -0.4 fWAR, -0.8 rWAR

2026 Projections: 32 games, 140 plate appearances, .242/.295/.419, 5 HR, 17 RBI, 98 wRC+, 0.3 fWAR

Just a few short weeks ago, Estevão broke down the decision to sign Grichuk, and in the process of that piece he discussed reasons to both be optimistic about the veteran this season (such as his 92.4 mph exit velo last season) and to be, well, not so optimistic about him (such as his “predictable unpredictability”). Rather than treading over that same ground again, I’d instead like to talk about what the thought process behind the decision is, what the exact role Grichuk is expected to fill, and what are the possible ways his time in pinstripes may go.

The decision to option Domínguez and roster Grichuk has been met with skepticism around the Yankees online community, and for good reason. The organization has, in recent years, oscillated between playing the kids too much (see: Volpe, Anthony) and running out clearly washed veterans in lieu of letting the kids play (see: Verdugo, Alex and Kiner-Falefa, Isiah). Viewed from that vantage point, this move seems to be just the latest in a long line of overcorrections by the front office.

In this instance, though, there’s one variable that separates Grichuk from Verdugo and IKF: Grichuk is not in line to start, and is a platoon bat at best. Unlike Oswald Peraza and Volpe in 2022 and Domínguez himself in 2024, the young kid is not being blocked; there isn’t a starting job available. A much better comparandum would be 2012, when the Yankees optioned Francisco Cervelli to the minors and had Chris Stewart serve as their backup catcher, in order to have the young catcher receive regular reps. Had starting catcher Russell Martin been injured for an extended period of time, however, it would have been Cervelli filling in as the starter, not the career backup in Stewart. When/if an outfield or DH spot opens up due to injury, Domínguez is certainly slotting into that spot in the lineup.

So why is Grichuk here, rather than having the #NextManUp on the active roster to begin with? Because Grichuk, at least in theory, brings something that Domínguez has not yet shown in practice: the ability to hit left-handed pitching. As of today, the FanGraphs Depth Chart lists Trent Grisham as the Yankees’ starting center fielder, putting him in a platoon with Grichuk. According to their projection, against left-handed pitching, Grisham will sit, Bellinger will slide over to center, and Grichuk will man left. This tracks with the Yankees’ stated intention to factor in platoon matchups more this season — and it is something that, the way this roster is currently constructed, does not benefit Domínguez, as his platoon splits to date are comparable with Grisham’s. Grichuk, at least in theory, brings something different to the Yankees’ bench and gives Aaron Boone some flexibility.

Of course, what if it doesn’t work out? At this stage, it’s hard to say for certain, as despite having a reputation for holding onto aging vets for too long (e.g., DJ LeMahieu and Aaron Hicks), the Yankees have in recent years been willing to pull the plug on an experiment that clearly wasn’t working (e.g., Jay Bruce, Opening Day first baseman, and Enyel De Los Santos, trade deadline bullpen acquisition). The Yankees only have $2.5 million invested in Grichuk, and no sentimental attachments (in fact, given his performance against the Yankees over his career, they might have negative sentimentality). If Father Time has indeed caught up to the 34-year-old, it shouldn’t be too painful for the Bombers to move on.

Hopefully, though, it won’t come to that, and Grichuk quiets those disappointed in his arrival.

See more of the Yankees Previews series here.

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Box Grades: Rare Statistical Combinations Produced in Another Blowout Spurs Win

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 23: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs dunks the ball during the game against the Miami Heat on March 23, 2026 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

San Antonio is on a heater! They have now won six in a row and 22 of 24, making them the best team in the NBA over the last couple of months by a notable margin. Furthermore, many of these wins have been against good-to-excellent teams, and had last night’s game occurred a couple of weeks ago I would have counted Miami in that set.

However, the Heat’s outlook has dimmed considerably since their win over Milwaukee on March 12th, and – even though they have plenty of incentive to fight for wins over the next couple of weeks – Miami was clearly overwhelmed last night, allowing the Spurs to take firm control by halftime. Even so, the game produced a number of box score highlights, including several rare occurrences:

  • San Antonio followed up its dominant rebounding performance against Indiana with an even better showing against the Heat, including a +24 edge in total rebounds and +10 margin on the offensive glass. One result of this was that the Spurs had notable advantages in offensive opportunity, including seven more field goal attempts and eight more free throws.
  • Speaking of free throws, San Antonio was also excellent from the line, going 25-of-28. Even so, Miami generated a FT% margin of +5.71 percentage points by missing just one free throw in 20 attempts. Unfortunately for the Heat, their only award for this achievement is joining an ignominious club: In the 16,743 regular season games since the start of 2012-2013, this is just the 16th contest in which a team has lost by 25+ points while having a FT% of at least 95% on 20+ attempts.
  • The margin of victory also seems remarkable when one considers that Miami made 16 threes, one more than the Spurs. In the same set of 16,743 regular season games this is just the 17th case in which a team lost by 25+ points while having a positive 3PM differential and making 16+ shots from distance. Of course, the reason this combination is so rare is that teams that make this many threes tend to be shooting well, which was absolutely not the case for Miami last night.
  • As I already mentioned, offensive volume was a big part of the Spurs’ easy victory last night; for example, San Antonio still outscored the Heat by six at the free throw line despite Miami’s edge in FT%. Volume and efficiency were also important from the field, where the Spurs’ extra shots and +7.52 percentage-point FG% margin helped them earn a +10 FGM differential.
  • Including this game, only 153 winners have had FGM and FTM differentials of at least +10 and +6 (respectively) in the 16,743 regular season contests since the start of 2012-2013. The average margin of victory in this set is just over 36 points, and only 14 other members of the group have won by 25 or less. As such, San Antonio’s win last night can be seen as an underachievement, though I won’t be losing any sleep over it.

What are Team Graded Box Scores?

Very briefly, these box scores grade winner-loser differentials for basic box score statistics, with the grade being based on the winning team’s differential relative to other NBA winners during a defined reference period. Think of it like a report card for understanding how a given winner performed relative to other winners. The reference period used runs from the start of the 2012-2013 season to the latest date of play, including only games in the same season category (i.e., regular season and playoff games are not compared to each other).

Data Source: The underlying data used to create these box scores was collected from Basketball Reference. In all cases, the data are collected the morning after the game is played. Although rare, postgame statistical revisions after data collection do occur and may affect the results after the fact.

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Atlanta Braves News: Spencer Strider Injury, Matt Olson Stays Hot, More

NORTH PORT, FL - MARCH 11: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves pitches during the game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 in North Port, Florida. (Photo by Cole Carter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

Once again, the Braves were dealt some bad news Monday. Spencer Strider will be out to the start the season with an oblique injury. While the Braves hope he misses just a few weeks, oblique injuries could take a month or more to come back from plus rehab time. Jose Suarez and Martin Perez could he options to internally fill Strider’s role. Didier Fuentes and JR Ritchie are other obvious candidates.

The unfortunate is now injuries have clearly impacted the start of the Braves season. “Weathering the Storm” successfully is certainly an option if the offense starts off strong. But the quality of the rotation has significantly decreased before the season has even begun.

Braves News

The Braves bested the Pirates, as Matt Olson hit home runs 5 and 6 on the Spring, showing that he is locked in to start the season. Fuentes also delivered another strong outing on the mound.

Mark Bowman looked closer at what Strider’s injury means for the Braves.

MLB News

The Cubs and Pete Crow Armstrong agreed to a long-term contract.

MLB.com looks at Spring Training stats that have some meaning, including some positive takes on Drake Baldwin.

JJ Weatherholt will make the Cardinals Opening Day roster.

Carson Benge will make the Mets Opening Day roster.

Seiya Suzuki will start the season on the IL for the Cubs.

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Playoff Push Continues: Islanders Need Same Urgency vs. Blackhawks

Sunday's game between the New York Islanders and Columbus Blue Jackets felt like a playoff game.

The Islanders were in desperate need of a win after dropping their previous two games to fall out of a playoff spot. Riding a 12-game point streak (7-5-0), the Blue Jackets had leapfrogged many teams to sit third in the Metropolitan Division.

It was a tight hockey game, filled with physicality and post-whistle shenanigans, a game in which the Islanders came away victorious, 1-0, to jump back into a playoff spot. 

New York Islanders Back In Playoff Position After Shutout Of Columbus Blue JacketsNew York Islanders Back In Playoff Position After Shutout Of Columbus Blue JacketsA crucial shutout propels the Islanders back into a playoff spot. Now, they're fighting tooth and nail to secure their postseason berth with just 11 games remaining.

As one of The Elmonters' followers, David Roberts put it: "There was consistent intensity, which was necessary because Columbus had the same." 

That brings us to Tuesday night's game against the Chicago Blackhawks.

While there could be a spark in this one with 2025 No. 3 overall pick Anton Frondell potentially making his NHL debut, the Blackhawks aren't playing for anything other than pride. 

Jeff Blashill's squad sits 30th in the NHL, moving a handful of pieces at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline. 

The Islanders have a history of playing down to "weaker" opponents. It's the NHL, where even the worst team in the league can beat the best, but during a playoff race, losing to a bottom-feeder could be catastrophic. 

This season, the Islanders have lost games to the St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, and Los Angeles Kings (twice). 

The Islanders must bring that playoff intensity to Tuesday night's showdown, regardless of whether the Blackhawks match it.  Chicago is 1-2-2 over their last five games. 

On Dec. 30, the Islanders did beat the Blackhawks 3-2 in a shootout, a Bo Horvat winner.  

With the Ottawa Senators beating the New York Rangers 2-1 on Monday night, they moved within two points of the Islanders for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference with what will be two games in hand after Tuesday. 

Losing to the Blackhawks is really not an option for Long Island. 

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Kings vs Flames Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game

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With missing the playoffs long since conceded, the Calgary Flames are making it tough for teams still vying for a postseason berth.

They get a chance to make it four straight wins tonight when they host the struggling Los Angeles Kings, who are hanging on in the wild-card picture.

My Kings vs. Flames predictions and NHL picks have Calgary maintaining its recent streak of stifling offenses, keeping this one Under the total on Tuesday, March 24.

Kings vs Flames prediction

Kings vs Flames best bet: Under 5.5 (+100)

The  Calgary Flames picked up a 4-3 OT win over Tampa last time out, setting them up for a chance at a season-best fourth straight win.

Defense has been key, as they’ve allowed five total goals across this streak.

It’s also been part of their success against the Los Angeles Kings, a team they’ve beaten in four of the last five meetings, holding them to six total goals.

The Kings have just one win in their last five, and are a Bottom-5 scoring team in hockey.

The Under has hit in five of the last six meetings.

Kings vs Flames same-game parlay

Morgan Frost has taken over the goal-scoring lead for the team, tallying three times in his last four games. He’s also scored once against L.A. this season.

Mikael Backlund has topped 2.5 shots on goal three times in the last six games, but he’s gotten more rubber against the Kings, putting up at least three shots in six of his last nine vs. L.A.

Kings vs Flames SGP

  • Under 5.5
  • Morgan Frost anytime goal
  • Mikael Backlund Over 2.5 shots on goal

Kings vs Flames odds

  • Moneyline: Kings -140 | Flames +120
  • Puck Line: Kings -1.5 (+170) | Flames +1.5 (-210)
  • Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-120) | Under 5.5 (+100)

Kings vs Flames trend

L.A. has lost 17 extra-time games this season, the most in the NHL. Find more NHL betting trends for Kings vs. Flames.

How to watch Kings vs Flames

LocationScotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB
DateTuesday, March 24, 2026
Puck drop9:00 p.m. ET
TVFDSN West, Sportsnet West

Kings vs Flames latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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Suns Reacts Survey: Who would you want to face in the Play-In?

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 01: Dillon Brooks #3 of the Phoenix Suns pressures Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Los Angeles Clippers during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 01, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Clippers defeated the Suns 117-93. 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 Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Suns fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Ten games left. That is all that separates the Phoenix Suns from the end of the regular season, and it brings them to a place they have never been before as a franchise, staring down the reality of the Play-In Tournament. 

It is still a relatively new wrinkle in the NBA, introduced in 2021, and Phoenix has managed to avoid it up to this point. The closest they came was in 2024, when they landed in the sixth seed and were promptly swept by Minnesota in the first round. Now it feels inevitable. The numbers back it up, with Basketball Reference giving the Suns a 91.8% chance to finish seventh in the Western Conference, which plants them firmly in Play-In territory.

A lot can shift over ten games. The NBA has a way of bending expectations when you least expect it, but the runway is short and the direction feels set. Phoenix is trending toward hosting a Play-In game, one night with everything on the line, a chance to secure the seventh seed and earn a date with the second seed out West. That reality starts to shape the way you look at the standings, because it is no longer about climbing; it is about positioning and survival. You begin scanning the teams circling that eighth spot, wondering who you would rather see, who presents the cleaner matchup, who carries the kind of chaos you want no part of. 

So let’s take a look at the group fighting for that final Play-In position, and what each potential opponent could mean for the Suns.

Los Angeles Clippers

Odds of 8th seed: 62.4%

The Clippers sit under .500 at 35–36, 4.5 games back of Phoenix for that seventh seed, and with only 11  games remaining, it is a steep climb to make up that kind of ground. It can happen – the league has a way of tightening and twisting late in the year – but the math is not in their favor. Still, they sit squarely in the conversation as a potential Play-In opponent, and they are not a team you casually dismiss.

Since December 20, the Clippers are 29–15, the sixth-best record in the NBA over that stretch, and it speaks to how they have reshaped themselves on the fly. They moved on from a significant portion of their core, sending James Harden to Cleveland and Ivica Zubac to Indiana. And instead of folding, they found a rhythm. There is structure to what they do, there is confidence in how they play, and it shows up night after night.

The Suns split the season series 2–2, although the timing of those games matters. Three of those matchups came in the opening weeks of the season, back when everything still felt fluid and undefined, and only one has come since the calendar flipped to 2026. That game, February 1, was a 117–93 Clippers win that never felt competitive.

In March, the Clippers are 8–5, a notch above the Suns at 6–6 over the same stretch, and it reinforces the idea that this is a team playing with purpose as the season tightens. If this is the matchup that materializes, it would not be comfortable and it would not be forgiving.

Portland Trail Blazers

Odds of 8th seed: 26.2%

The Portland Trail Blazers sit a half-game behind the Clippers, which sets the stage for a tight race between those two teams as the season winds down. Every night carries weight for them, every result nudges the standings, and it feels like that eighth seed could swing back and forth all the way to the finish line. They have already dropped two games to the Clippers this season, and with two more matchups remaining, including that 81st game on April 10, there is a built-in pressure point that could decide who stays afloat and who slips to ninth.

Phoenix holds a 2–1 edge over Portland this year, although the lone loss tells a story of its own. That 92–77 defeat on February 22 came under some strange circumstances. The Suns were without Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks, and rolled out a starting group of Collin Gillespie, Jalen Green, Ryan Dunn, Royce O’Neale, and Mark Williams. It never found a rhythm. The offense stalled possession after possession, the shots did not fall, and the numbers reflect it. Phoenix shot 36.5% from the field, one of their roughest nights of the season, and finished with their lowest scoring output in nine years.

It is the kind of game you log, you remember, and you try to contextualize when projecting forward. Because while the Suns have had success against Portland, they have also seen how quickly things can get muddy against them, especially when the roster is stretched and the margin for error disappears.

Golden State Warriors

Odds of 8th seed: 7.5%

Golden State feels like a team running on fumes right now. They are 2–9 in March as injuries have chipped away at their rotation, and they are hanging on more than they are building anything sustainable. From a Phoenix perspective, there is a quiet sense of relief in that, because a healthy Warriors team has a way of turning every possession into a problem. The Suns are 1–2 against Golden State this season, with their lone win coming in a tight 99–98 game on December 18.

The Warriors sit at 33–38, two games back of the eighth seed, and the path forward is narrow. It would take a real push over their final 11 games to climb into position, and they are fighting uphill in the tiebreaker scenarios as well. Portland holds the edge after taking three of four in their season series, and the Clippers have won two of three so far, with one more meeting still on the schedule.

That final Clippers game, the last game of the regular season, lingers as a potential swing point. If the standings stay tight, it could carry real weight. For now, Golden State remains in the mix, but it feels fragile, a team searching for stability at the exact moment the season demands it.

Those are the names on the board, the paths that could cross with Phoenix when the Play In lights come on. And with the Suns essentially settled into their spot, the lens shifts a bit. It is no longer about chasing, it is about watching, about tracking the chaos unfolding beneath them and seeing which version of it rises up to meet them.

So the question becomes simple, even if the answer is not. Who do you want?

That is where we are. Ten games left, and instead of scoreboard watching above, it becomes about the teams below, about rooting for outcomes that shape the cleanest path forward. Not an easy path, because nothing about this team has been easy, but the one that gives you the best chance to survive and move on.

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Fleur-de-Links, March 24: Is it finally the year the Saints trade back?

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 13: New Orleans Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis looks on during the first quarter of the 2022 NBA Play-In Tournament between New Orleans Pelicans and the San Antonio Spurs at Smoothie King Center on April 13, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Saints target two positions in pre-draft visits

Seems like a pattern is starting.

2026 NFL Draft: Saints Hold Valuable Trade Asset with No. 8 Pick

The trade back conversation is back.

Cameron Jordan Fuels Chiefs Rumors by Congratulating Travis Kelce on $54.7M Contract

The Cam Jordan saga continues.

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Fantasy Basketball Stock Up, Stock Down: Darius Garland excelling with Clippers

Is your fantasy team alive and thriving in the playoffs? Hanging on for dear life and needing some tips? Or is your team out, and you’re simply here for the love of the sport? Either way, we've got you covered in this week’s column. Check out these three players whose stock is up, and the three whose stock is not.

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NBA: Detroit Pistons at Toronto Raptors
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Daniss Jenkins has stepped up in a big way with Cade Cunningham sidelined, and he can help fantasy managers win their semifinal matchups.

STOCK UP

Quentin Grimes — SG/SF, 76ers

No Paul George. No Tyrese Maxey. No Joel Embiid. Just lots of Quentin Grimes lately. The wing scorer had fully taken advantage of his opportunities before missing Monday’s game with an illness. His most recent stat lines have gone like this: 25/5/4, 27/5/7, 12/2/1, 31/3/2, 28/8/4 — quick math shows that’s an average of 23.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists for Grimes over the past five games. The only thing to escape him over this stretch is the subpar 29.2 percent shooting from beyond the arc, which has been a weakness throughout the season. Nonetheless, Grimes is playing as good basketball as anyone on the Sixers at the moment. It’ll be interesting to see what happens once the Sixers’ top guys return. But until then, the production should remain.

Darius Garland — PG, Clippers

No hidden gem here. Garland, now 10 games into his tenure with the LA Clippers, has tallied at least 20 points and six assists in six of those games, with one of his most recent appearances being a 41-point, 11-assist outing against the Mavericks to help the Clippers end a four-game losing skid. Along with the points and assists, the one-time NBA All-Star has provided value as a three-pointer shooter, making at least four triples in half of his games since being traded. Injuries have been a concern for Garland over the past couple of seasons, but he’s currently healthy and making a huge splash on the offensive end, which has come at the perfect time for those fantasy managers currently in the playoffs.

Bones Hyland — PG/SG, Timberwolves

Perhaps no one on the Timberwolves has benefited more from Anthony Edwards’ absence (knee) than Hyland. In under 30.0 minutes per game, he’s posted averages of 20.0 points and 3.3 three-pointers in the four games that have taken place since Edwards has been sidelined. Those numbers may not be extraordinary, especially since there hasn’t been much impact in other statistical categories; however, they could certainly be useful off the waiver wire for those fantasy managers needing to stream scoring and three-pointers during the fantasy playoffs. Edwards' return date is still unclear, meaning Hyland should remain a priority on offense for the time being.

STOCK DOWN

Jonathan Kuminga — SF/PF, Hawks

The start to Kuminga’s Hawks tenure was a fun one. He debuted with a 27-point, seven-rebound outing against the Wizards, which he followed up two days later with a 17/9/3 line in the rematch before a 20-point outing against the Trail Blazers in Game 3 of his tenure. However, knee inflammation took him out of the lineup for three straight games, and his impact has not been nearly the same in the five games since returning. Specifically, Kuminga has been held to single digits in three of those games, in which he combined to shoot 3-of-20 from the field with zero three-pointers. He did, however, post 16 points and four three-pointers in the Hawks’ 39-point win over the Grizzlies on Monday — perhaps this couldn’t be the performance that gets him back on track. However, it’s hard to assume his stock will rise enough to become a reliable contributor in fantasy leagues before the playoffs conclude.

Myles Turner — C, Bucks

It’s not inaccurate to say the Bucks have had a tough season. From injuries to underperforming players, the season has gone south, and it doesn’t appear to be in a salvageable place with less than a handful of weeks left in the season. One of the players who has really struggled to find his way throughout the season is Myles Turner. Across his 12 appearances in March, Turner’s minutes per game are easily at his lowest of any month, and the 8.3 points per game also certainly are. The first-year Buck has reached double figures in scoring only two times this month, while shooting 39.0 percent from the field. It’s hard to imagine things going much worse than they currently are for Turner, but given Milwaukee’s place in the Eastern Conference standings with less than a few weeks left in the season, I can’t actually see things getting much better. By this point, there likely aren’t too many fantasy managers leaning on Turner for production in the fantasy playoffs.

Immanuel Quickley — PG/SG, Raptors

Following an exceptional February — arguably Quickley’s best month from a production standpoint — March hasn’t been nearly as kind. He’s shooting 39.2 percent from the field through 10 games this month and has had some noteworthy struggles from behind the 3pt line during that stretch. Continued success as a passer has kept his floor from lowering even more in terms of nightly fantasy production, but a safe floor may not be what fantasy managers need at this point in the season. Quickley is battling a foot injury, which caused him to miss Monday’s lopsided win over the Jazz — perhaps the ailment has been at the root of recent unspectacular play. Regardless, more production is preferred around this time of the year.

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Columbus Blue Jackets (85 pts) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (80 pts) Game Preview

The Columbus Blue Jackets are back on the road for the second of three games away from Nationwide Arena. This game features the Philadelphia Flyers. 

Philadelphia Flyers - 34-23-12 - 80 Points - 7-2-1 in the last 10 - Won 3- 5th in the Metro

Columbus Blue Jackets - 37-22-11 - 85 Points - 6-1-3 in the last 10 - Lost 1 - 3rd in the Metro  

Team Notes Per CBJ PR

  • Columbus had its season-high 12-game points streak (8-0-4) snapped with a 1-0 loss at the NY Islanders on Sunday. It was tied for the third-longest points streak in club history (third time).
  • The club has earned points in 23 of its last 26 contests (19-3-4, 42 pts) to lead the league in points pct. (.808) and fewest regulation losses since Jan. 11. The Jackets also rank second in wins, points and goals-against per game (2.46) and seventh in goals for per game (3.62) and shots against (25.2) over that span.
  • CBJ are also 8-2-1 in 11 road contests since Jan. 11, ranking second in the league in points pct. (.773) and third in goals-against per game (2.18) and penalty kill pct. (86.7).
  • The Blue Jackets have 12 games remaining in the regular season with seven against teams currently holding a playoff spot, and all 12 contests against teams within six points of a playoff spot.

Player Notes Per CBJ PR

  • Adam Fantilli has registered points in six out of the last seven games (3-5-8) and in 12 of the last 15 contests (8-9-17). He has posted 9-13-22 in the past 20 contests since Jan. 24 and is three points (21-31-52, 70 GP) from setting a single-season career high.
  • Jet Greaves has earned points in 13 of his last 14 starts since Jan. 11 (11-1-2, 2.25 GAA, .915 SV% in 15 GP), while G Elvis Merzlikins has recorded points in 10 of his past 12 starts over that span (8-2-2, 2.50 GAA in 13 GP).
  • Mathieu Olivier has registered six multi-point outings in the last 19 games since Jan. 28 (10-4-14).
  • Cole Silinger has posted 1-5-6 in the last four contests and has set a single-season career high in assists (7-25-32, 69 GP).
  • Zach Werenski has collected points in 27 of his past 33 games played since Dec. 11 (11-34-45, 14 multi-point efforts) and has 20-55-75 and 24 multi-point efforts in 63 games in 2025-26. He sits one multi-point effort shy of tying Artemi Panarin's club record (25, 2018-19).

Blue Jackets Stats

  • Power Play - 20.3% - 17th in the NHL
  • Penalty Kill - 77.8% - 23rd in the NHL
  • Goals For - 222 - 15th in the NHL
  • Goals Against - 214 - 19th in the NHL 

Flyers Stats

  • Power Play - 14.9% - 32nd in the NHL
  • Penalty Kill - 77.9% - 22nd in the NHL
  • Goals For - 193 - 26th in the NHL
  • Goals Against - 207 - 11th in the NHL

Series History vs. TheFlyers

  • Columbus is 31-19-3-4 all-time, and 13-13-1-2 on the road vs. Philadelphia.
  • Columbus has won four-straight in the series and collected points in the past five meetings since Dec. 21, 2024 (4-0-1).
  • The Jackets have also earned points in seven of the last eight meetings dating back to Jan. 4, 2024 (6-1-1).
  • CBJ have earned points in their last four visits to Xfinity Mobile Arena (3-0-1) and ten of the past 14 road contests since Mar. 15, 2018 (8-4-2).
  • Four of the last six games played at Xfinity Mobile Arena have been decided after regulation (2-OT, 2-SO).
  • The winning team has won by multiple goals in six of the past ten games since Oct. 12, 2023.
  • The clubs have combined for three goals (including SO goals) in the past two played at Philadelphia but six-plus in 10 of the last 14 meetings in the state of Pennsylvania.
  • The Jackets have not relinquished a power play goal in the last five meetings dating back to Dec. 21, 2024 (17-of-17).
  • The teams have averaged 56.6 shots combined over the past five meetings at Philadelphia.

Who To Watch For TheFlyers

  • Travis Konecny leads the Flyers with 25 goals, 35 assists, and 60 points.
  • Trevor Zegras has 22 goals and 55 points.
  • Goaltender Dan Vladař is 23-11-7 with a SV% of .908.

CBJ Player Notes vsFlyers

  • Charlie Coyle has 16 points in his career against the Islanders.
  • Zach Werenski has 17 career points in 27 games against the NYI.
  • Boone Jenner has 16 points in 36 games against the Isles.

Injured Reserve

  • Brendan Smith - Lower Body - Missed 32 Games IR - Out for the rest of the regular season.

TOTAL MAN GAMES LOST: 178

How to Watch & Listen: Tonight's game will be on ESPN+ and HULU. The radio broadcast will be on 97.1 The Fan, with Bob McElligott behind the mic doing the play-by-play. 

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2026 MLB Opening Day Power Rankings: Who can stop the Dodgers from a three-peat?

As Opening Day of the 2026 MLB season approaches, it’s time to take a look at how these teams stack up coming out of spring training.

My methodology is no formula, all vibes. These are the teams I think are the best right now, separated into tiers. I would love to be wrong. It would be pretty boring to have a baseball season without surprises. So bring it on, Rockies.

This will be a weekly column moving forward, starting Monday, April 6. Until then, enjoy the pageantry and optimism of Opening Day and the inevitable questioning of your manager’s bullpen decisions.

⚾️ Coming soon: MLB returns to NBC and Peacock in 2026! In addition to becoming the exclusive home of Sunday Night Baseball, NBC Sports will broadcast MLB Sunday Leadoff, “Opening Day” and Labor Day primetime games, the first round of the MLB Draft, the entire Wild Card round of the postseason, and much more.

The Elite

1) Los Angeles Dodgers

Many said this time last year that the Dodgers could threaten the 2001 Mariners (116-46) for the most regular season wins in the modern era. It didn’t happen. In fact, they had to play in the Wild Card round on the way to their second straight World Series title. With the additions of Kyle Tucker and Edwín Diaz, as well as Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound for a full season, it’s tempting to think this could be the best version of the team during their current dominant run. However, baseball has a way of surprising us over a long season. The Dodgers already have their share of questions, including Roki Sasaki’s spring struggles and Blake Snell working his way back from a shoulder injury. Still, they are the easy No. 1 here.

2) New York Yankees

This is where things start to get interesting. The Yankees won 93 games last season and we didn’t see major changes with the roster this offseason. While Aaron Judge admitted some frustration at the lack of action at one point, Brian Cashman eventually re-signed Cody Bellinger and acquired Ryan Weathers for their rotation. Gerrit Cole is already pitching in games and should be back by the end of April, while Carlos Rodon isn’t too far behind as he returns from arthroscopic surgery on his elbow. As Aaron Judge pushes for his third-straight MVP Award, the Yankees have the potential to be the strongest team in a wide open American League field.

3) Seattle Mariners

Coming off a Game 7 exit against the Blue Jays in the ALCS, the Mariners also have a strong case as the AL pennant favorites. Yes, Julio Rodriguez and Cal Raleigh get most of the attention nationally, but starting pitching remains the strength of this team, even with Bryce Miller slated to begin the year on the injured list with an oblique injury. The Mariners kept midseason acquisition Josh Naylor on a five-year, $92.5 million contract before adding new leadoff man Brendan Donovan in a trade with the Cardinals. There’s even more help on the way with top prospect Colt Emerson close to the majors.

4) Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies have failed to make it out of the NLDS in each of the last two years, but they remain the strongest team not named the Dodgers in the National League. The newly-extended Cristopher Sanchez arrived as one of the game’s best pitchers last season, an important development with Zack Wheeler returning from surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome. While Dave Dombrowski unintentionally created a kerfuffle over whether Bryce Harper is still “elite,” the lineup remains potent with Kyle Schwarber staying in the fold for five years. J.T. Realmuto is also sticking around, but there’s a much-needed infusion of youth on this team with Justin Crawford and Andrew Painter on the Opening Day roster.

5) Detroit Tigers

With Tarik Skubal on the verge of free agency, can the Tigers finally make a run at the World Series? It was a frustrating offseason at times, including Skubal’s arbitration situation, but the outlook changed significantly with the Framber Valdez addition as well as a reunion with longtime ace Justin Verlander. Verlander led the way the last time the Tigers even made it out of the ALDS in 2013. Top prospect infielder Kevin McGonigle was nine years old when that happened.

6) Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays came oh-so-close to winning the World Series. Was it just a magical run or the start of sustained success? While the club said goodbye to homegrown shortstop Bo Bichette, they brought in the likes of Dylan Cease, Kazuma Okamoto, Tyler Rogers, and Cody Ponce. The Blue Jays remain a serious threat in the AL, but there are already some issues in the rotation with postseason sensation Trey Yesavage set to start the season on the IL and Shane Bieber without a clear timetable to return.

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In the Hunt

7) Chicago Cubs

Alex Bregman and Edward Cabrera were the big additions this offseason, but the Cubs’ fortunes may ultimately hinge on consistency and growth from some of their young players, including Pete-Crow Armstrong (.634 OPS in second half), Cade Horton, Daniel Palencia, Moises Ballesteros, and Matt Shaw as he takes on a utility role.

8) Boston Red Sox

Boston’s starting rotation looks strong and deep, but will they hit enough? Craig Breslow tried for Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso this offseason before ultimately settling for Willson Contreras at first base and Caleb Durbin to fill the void left by Alex Bregman at the hot corner. It’s not exactly what fans had in mind, but it will help to get a full year out of Roman Anthony.

9) Milwaukee Brewers

It might feel disrespectful to have the Brewers at No. 9 after they posted the best record in MLB last season, but it’s a brand-new year. Can young fireballer Jacob Misiorowski take a step forward as a true ace? He certainly has the stuff for it. This team needs it with Freddy Peralta in New York and Quinn Priester a question mark to begin the year.

10) New York Mets

It’s safe to say that Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns has officially put his stamp on this roster. After an embarrassing finish which kept the Mets out of last year’s postseason, Bo Bichette, Freddy Peralta, Marcus Semien, and Devin Williams are among the new faces to complement a couple of future Hall of Famers in Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor. Perhaps the best sign for the Mets this spring is that Kodai Senga looks healthy and dominant.

11) Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles have also undergone a host of changes, including a new manager (Craig Albernaz) and big additions like Pete Alonso, Taylor Ward, Shane Baz, Chris Bassitt, and Ryan Helsley. With some progress from their younger players, including top prospect catcher Samuel Basallo, this could make for a fun summer in Charm City.

12) Cleveland Guardians

Similar to the Brewers, the Guardians just keep finding a way. At one point last July, the Guardians were 15.5 games behind the Tigers in the AL Central. Then came the historic turnaround. The big question for this team, as it always is, is if they’ll score enough runs. Chase DeLauter breaking through as a rookie would be a huge help.

13) San Diego Padres

While the Padres’ starting rotation has a lot of volatility and a troubling lack of quality depth, the same can’t be said for their bullpen. Mason Miller leads the way, but there’s also Jason Adam, Jeremiah Estrada, and Adrian Morejon among the bridge options. Even with Robert Suarez leaving via free agency, this group of relievers is the best in baseball. That will help keep them in a lot of ballgames.

14) Texas Rangers

The Rangers have missed the playoffs in back-to-back years since their surprise World Series run in 2023 and the range of outcomes remains wide here. That’s the way it goes when your team is built around Corey Seager and Jacob deGrom, two of the best players of their era who have also seen injuries interrupt their peaks. While we’re on the topic of peaks, 2026 could be the year that Wyatt Langford knocks on the door of stardom.

The Maybes

15) San Francisco Giants

You can’t say Buster Posey isn’t afraid of making bold choices. Tony Vitello will make a major-league leap in Wednesday’s season opener against the Yankees, becoming the first college coach with no professional experience to manage an MLB team in more than 100 years. With a roster featuring Rafael Devers, Matt Chapman, Willy Adames, and Logan Webb, Vitello isn’t getting eased in during a rebuild job. Expectations will be there right away.

16) Kansas City Royals

The Royals quietly have the potential for one of the best lineups in the American League this season. Jac Caglianone and Carter Jensen are expected to be with the club from the start, but the Royals also changed the dimensions at Kauffman Stadium this offseason. The fences were moved in by about 10 feet and also lowered. Can Vinny Pasquantino and Jac Caglianone bring their espresso machine from Team Italy with them? Because we’re about to see a lot of homers from those two.

17) Atlanta Braves

The Braves endured some awful luck with injuries last season and so far, 2026 isn’t being kind to them either. In addition to Jurickson Profar’s 162-game PED suspension, the Braves will be without Spencer Schwellenbach, Spencer Strider, Ha-Seong Kim, Sean Murphy, and Hurston Waldrep to begin the year. Maybe they should burn some sage in the clubhouse. Anything to shake the bad vibes.

18) Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks are waiting on help for their rotation and bullpen, but the lineup features a bunch of high-end talent. Most baseball fans know Corbin Carroll and Ketel Marte by now, but did you know that only six players had a higher bWAR than shortstop Geraldo Perdomo last season?

19) Houston Astros

After missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016, this feels like the end of an era for the Astros, even though some familiar faces remain. Houston desperately needs a healthy season from slugger Yordan Alvarez. The other big question is how much they’ll get from Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai with Framber Valdez no longer in the fold.

20) Cincinnati Reds

This is a really fun lineup, with Eugenio Suarez making his return to Cincy, and a full year coming from rookie Sal Stewart. The question is whether there will be enough pitching to carry them back to the postseason. Hunter Greene is expected to be out until July after undergoing surgery to fix a bone spur in his elbow, so that’s not a great start.

The Dreamers

21) Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays are getting the least hype of any team in the AL East and that’s probably for good reason from a personnel perspective. This organization has a long track record of making the most of what they have, though, and a return to The Trop could be exactly what they need. Win or lose, at least we get to see Junior Caminero mash baseballs.

22) Miami Marlins

It’s easy to overlook the fact that the Marlins finished just four games under .500 last season. There’s momentum with this group, but it’s a shame that 2025 breakout Kyle Stowers is expected to miss the first few weeks of the season with an oblique strain.

23) Pittsburgh Pirates

Paul Skenes is ridiculously great, but what about everyone else? The good news is that the Pirates picked up Ryan O’Hearn and Brandon Lowe to strengthen their lineup. If Oneil Cruz bounces back and highly-touted youngsters like Konnor Griffin and Bubba Chandler make an impact, this could be a pesky bunch. Still, a lot will need to go right.

24) Athletics

The Athletics remain in Sacramento for the foreseeable future, which should continue to mean great things for hitters. Sorry, Luis Severino. Sutter Health Park had the second-highest run factor in MLB last season, checking in at 26 percent above the league average for offense. Could we see a 50-homer season from Nick Kurtz before long?

25) Los Angeles Angels

The Angels seem to have a type, specifically if you were once good or a former top prospect. Grayson Rodriguez was added this offseason in a trade with the Orioles, but he’s slated to miss the start of the season due to arm soreness. Josh Lowe (acquired as part of a three-team trade with the Rays) dealt with an oblique injury during spring training, but he should be out there on Opening Day.

26) St. Louis Cardinals

It’s officially the Chaim Bloom Era in St. Louis, as established veterans like Nolan Arenado, Willson Contreras, Sonny Gray, and Brendan Donovan were shown the door this offseason. How quickly can they turn things around?

It’s Brutal Out Here

27) Minnesota Twins

The Twins aren’t without upside, but after a teardown at the trade deadline last year and a lack of offseason activity, they’ve already lost Pablo Lopez due to Tommy John surgery.

28) Chicago White Sox

This isn’t likely to be a winning team yet, but they should be fun to watch. The White Sox are the perfect place to see how slugger Munetaka Murakami fares against MLB pitching.

29) Washington Nationals

Can you shift from a rebuild into another rebuild? Asking for a friend. The Nationals’ plan is actually pretty fascinating, as their manager (Blake Butera), president of baseball operations (Paul Toboni), and general manager (Ani Kilambi) are all in their 30s. They might lose 100 games, but they should have no problem setting up your parent’s WI-FI network.

30) Colorado Rockies

The Rockies have lost 100 games in three straight seasons and have a completely new front office structure with Paul DePodesta making his return to baseball after a stint with the Cleveland Browns. At least they’re trying something different. Whoever turns this franchise around will be a legend.

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Multiple Blackhawks Prospects Made Their Mark On The OHL This Season

The Chicago Blackhawks have been incredible at drafting in recent years. They've made a lot of early draft picks, but they've also made some wise decisions in the middle and late rounds. 

One league that has had a stamp put on it by Blackhawks prospects this season is the Ontario Hockey League. The OHL is one of the top developmental leagues in the world, and the Blackhawks have had some success there. 

For one, they had the league's leading goal scorer in 2025-26 for the second year in a row. After Nick Lardis led the OHL last year, Marek Vanacker finished on top this year with 47 goals.

Vanacker, a first-round pick (27th overall) in the 2024 NHL Draft, is likely to turn pro next season after an incredibly strong year in 2025-26, after dealing with some injury trouble one year prior. 

The interesting thing is that Vanacker beat out his fellow Blackhawks draftee Jack Pridham to win the OHL goal-scoring title by one. Each of them has aspirations of translating this goal-scoring prowess to the next level, and this was a great developmental season. 

Vanacker and the Brantford Bulldogs earned the top seed in the Eastern Conference of the OHL. They will face the Sudbury Wolves in the first round. As for Pridham, his Kitchener Rangers are the top seed in the West and will face the Saginaw Spirit to open the postseason. Clearly, having a top-two goal scorer helped these clubs earn the top seeds. 

Another notable Blackhawks prospect, AJ Spellacy, is on the number two-seeded (West) Windsor Spitfires, looking to make a run to the Memorial Cup as well. Spellacy, a third-round pick (72nd overall) in 2024, is a high-motor, speedy player who can create chaos in all three zones. 

He isn't a monster offensively, as he scored 13 goals and 19 assists for 32 points in 51 games, but he is a solid contributor who also adds a sense of grit to any team he plays on. Once Spellacy is done with major junior, he has the tools to be a great pro. He will certainly have his chance to be an NHL player down the line. 

Not every one of Chicago's prospects is going to suit up for the Blackhawks. Some of them won't make it, some of them will be traded away, but they all provide value to the team right now.

Whether it's these three in particular, or others, it is clear that the team has talent down the line continuing to develop while waiting for their chance to shine in the big leagues. 

Image

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Hobbled Panthers Preparing To Host Seattle With Depleted Lineup

The Florida Panthers have only six home games remaining on their 2025-26 schedule.

They’ll play the first of those six – which all come bunched up in three separate two-game homestands – on Tuesday night when the Seattle Kraken come to town.

It’s been a disappointing season for both the Panthers and the Kraken.

We’re all well aware of why Florida has had a down year, and that’s due to the seemingly never ending list of injuries suffered by Panthers players over the past six months.

Entering play Tuesday, the Panthers basically need binoculars when looking at the playoff race. Florida trails the New York Islanders, who hold the second Wild Card spot, by 14 points, with two games in hand.

The focus when looking at the standings has shifted to Florida’s spot in the NHL’s lottery order.

That’s because the Panthers’ 2026 first-round pick is lottery protected.

So while yes, Florida did trade that same draft pick to the Chicago Blackhawks in the deal that brought Seth Jones to the Panthers, it turns out that the selection is top-10 protected.

That means when the dust settles on the season and the NHL Draft Lottery, which usually comes the same night the Stanley Cup Playoffs begins, if the Panthers’ pick as among the top 10, they will keep it and instead send their 2027 first-round pick to Chicago.

Currently, the Panthers are among the 10 worst teams in the league, tied with Seattle and the Toronto Maple Leafs with 71 points apiece for the eighth-worst point totals. Toronto has played two more games than Florida and Seattle, for what its worth.

When the Panthers and Kraken locked horns last week in Seattle, it was Florida who stumbled, losing 6-2 and picking up a crucial two-point edge on the Kraken in the lottery race.

Florida will also enter this game without a whole bunch of key players.

Sam Reinhart, Brad Marchand, Anton Lundell, Niko Mikkola, Uvis Balinskis, Mackie Samoskevich and A.J. Greer, who is suspended for three games, will all be out on Tuesday.

Lundell could be back sometime this week, and Samoskevich possibly next week, but everyone else (minus the suspended Greer) is likely done for the season.

Here are the Panthers projected lines and pairings for Tuesday’s matchup with Seattle:

Carter Verhaeghe – Sam Bennett – Matthew Tkachuk

Eetu Luostarinen – Anton Lundell – Evan Rodrigues

Jesper Boqvist – Tomas Nosek – Cole Reinhardt

Nolan Foote – Luke Kunin – Vinnie Hinostroza

Gus Forsling – Aaron Ekblad

Dmitry Kulikov – Seth Jones

Donovan Sebrango – Mike Benning

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Photo caption: Mar 15, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Florida Panthers center Evan Rodrigues (17) plays the puck against the Seattle Kraken during the second period at Climate Pledge Arena. (Steven Bisig-Imagn Images)