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Why Former Leafs President Brendan Shanahan Deserves To Run The Sabres, Blackhawks Or Predators

When the Toronto Maple Leafs cut ties with president Brendan Shanahan after last season, there was always a sense that it wouldn’t be long before he was back working in the NHL in one shape or form.

When TSN's Darren Dreger reported Shanahan was rejoining the NHL's hockey operations department, it wasn’t exactly a surprise.

But it may not be very long until Shanahan gets another shot at running an NHL team.

Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos listed the Buffalo Sabres, Chicago Blackhawks and Nashville Predators as teams that may be looking for an executive to help them turn the corner from being out of the Stanley Cup playoff mix year in and year out.

If Shanahan showed one thing in his lengthy tenure with the Maple Leafs, it’s that he can build a team that consistently makes the playoffs by bringing in experienced staff, finishing a rebuild and adding effective pieces around their core. A current sad-sack team like the Sabres and Blackhawks should be ecstatic to hand the reins over to Shanahan.

The Sabres have the makings of a strong core with Tage Thompson, Rasmus Dahlin, Owen Power and Alex Tuch if they re-sign him, but NHL fans know well how badly they have struggled at transitioning out of a rebuild and stepping into the playoffs.

Chicago, meanwhile, is still in the thick of a rebuilding stage and drafted Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, Artyom Levshunov, Sam Rinzel and Alex Vlasic. In net, they acquired Spencer Knight, who has elite potential. The supporting cast hasn't always successfully helped those young guys on the ice, however, and Shanahan could help ensure the right pieces are in place.

As for the Predators, which have first-time GM Barry Trotz running hockey operations and David Poile staying on as a senior advisor, Shanahan could provide more support to Trotz as the team tries to rebound from a disappointing 2024-25 campaign. Filip Forsberg, Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, Ryan O'Reilly, Roman Josi, Brady Skjei and Juuse Saros are all in their 30s, and they're not playing like a playoff team, so Shanahan could guide this squad either through a rebuild or through a rejuvenating retool.

What If Brendan Shanahan Joined A Potential NHL Expansion Franchise?What If Brendan Shanahan Joined A Potential NHL Expansion Franchise?Brendan Shanahan is a free agent. But where will he go next?

When Shanahan joined the Maple Leafs in 2014-15, the team had made the playoffs only once in the previous nine years. In his 11 years there, Shanahan helped steer Toronto to the post-season nine times, or eight times if you don't include the play-in round loss in 2020.

Now, playoff success was much more difficult for Shanahan’s Leafs to come by. But that was true early in Shanahan’s career as an NHL player with the New Jersey Devils and St. Louis Blues, and he eventually managed to figure things out and win three Stanley Cup championships with the Detroit Red Wings. And clearly, there’s a possibility the same will be true for Shanahan as a hockey executive.

There’s no doubt Shanahan’s current role with the NHL is a pit stop. NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly even suggested the same to Postmedia. And the lessons he learned in Leafs Land could serve Shanahan very well as he tries to get back into the winner’s circle.

Shanahan is a Hockey Hall of Famer because he was one of the best competitors the game has ever seen. And the motivation to succeed is the fuel for him to demonstrate that he’s now a stronger, wiser hockey man than the one who left his Leafs job.

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Expect Offensive Fireworks As Lightning Take On Golden Knights in Vegas

Thursday’s NHL slate features nine games packed with high-stakes matchups, setting the stage for fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. One of the evening’s most compelling showdowns is the Tampa Bay Lightning taking on the Vegas Golden Knights. 

Vegas is coming off a narrow 1-0 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday but has managed just two wins in its last five games. The Golden Knights will aim to build on that victory and defend their home ice, where they’ve traditionally been dominant. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay enters the game looking to bounce back after a loss to the Colorado Avalanche that snapped a five-game winning streak, a stretch that included a 2-1 home victory over these same Golden Knights.

For those new to our betting challenge, we start with a modest bankroll of $10 and work to grow it through smart, data-driven bets. In previous runs, we’ve turned our profits into triple-digit totals. Tonight’s same-game parlay zeroes in on the Tampa-Vegas matchup, offering a prime chance to regain momentum after our recent hot streak cooled off. 

Our bankroll had climbed to $264.60 before taking a loss in Tuesday’s Golden Knights-Red Wings game, but we’re back on track with a current total of $21.50 after cashing in on our picks from the Maple Leafs’ win over the Utah Mammoth on Wednesday. 

Jack Eichel’s MVP Case Strengthens Amid Golden Knights’ Dominant StartJack Eichel’s MVP Case Strengthens Amid Golden Knights’ Dominant StartEichel's offensive explosion fuels the Golden Knights' hot streak. Can this star-studded lineup carry him to MVP glory?

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Picks: Over 4.5 Goals & Lightning First Period +0.5 (-115)

The Golden Knights rarely struggle against many opponents, but the Lightning are one team they haven’t quite figured out yet. After losing to Tampa Bay earlier this season, Vegas has now dropped four of their last five matchups against the Bolts, following a stretch where the Golden Knights had won four of the previous five. This could be a potential bounce-back game for Vegas, though history suggests a tough battle ahead. The two teams have alternated wins in all seven of their meetings in Las Vegas, and if the trend continues, Thursday would be Tampa Bay’s turn to win and even the series at four victories each.

With two elite teams on the ice, the difference-makers will need to step up, as both rosters have players capable of taking over a game. Tampa’s 2–1 win earlier this season was also the first time in the history of the matchup that the teams combined for fewer than five goals, which suggests an offensive surge could be on the horizon Thursday night.

To boost the odds, adding another leg to the parlay makes sense, focusing on Tampa Bay’s strong first-period performances with the Lightning holding a +3 first-period goal differential this season, compared to the Vegas’ -1 mark this season. That number improves to +4 for Tampa on the road, while Vegas shows a modest increase to +1 at home. 

With a current bankroll of $21.50, a wager on the Lightning and the over at -115 odds would return a profit of $18.92, bringing the payout to $40.42 in return. With a full NHL slate lined up for Friday, it’s the perfect opportunity to ride the momentum and keep building the bankroll.

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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.

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Canadiens Do Well In ESPN Early Trophy Voting

While it’s very early in the season, earlier this week, ESPN released an article listing their favourites for the NHL trophies so far, and the Montreal Canadiens are doing very well, to say the least.

While it’s not a Hab, their favourite when it comes to the Norris Trophy awarded to the top NHL defenseman, Cale Makar is. They have Mike Matheson listed as a finalist. While he struggled last season, Matheson has been nothing short of spectacular, and while he has no more power play time, he still has seven points, just one behind teammate Noah Dobson, and he’s got a plus-eight differential. Not many people could have seen that one coming, especially considering how many talented defensemen there are on this Canadiens’ blueline.

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As things stand, ESPN wouldn’t give the Calder Trophy to a Canadiens’ player for the second year in a row; they would award it to the New York Islanders’ first-overall pick at the last draft, Matthew Schafer. Making Ivan Demidov a finalist. Given how well the young defenseman performed out of the game and how he’s become a significant part of the Islanders’ team right away, it’s understandable. I’m not sure that will hold all season, though. Demidov has now been put on the Canadiens’ first power play unit, and he’s shining brighter night after night. I’m not saying it’s impossible that he finishes as a runner-up in the Calder Trophy race. Still, with so much of the season left, he could overtake the Islanders’ rookie, especially if his point production explodes.

While Jakub Dobes isn’t mentioned as a possibility in the Calder Trophy talk in the article, his red-hot start makes him a finalist for the Vezina trophy behind Washington Capitals goaltender Logan Thompson, who they consider the leader. Connor Hellebuyck joins Dobes as a finalist.

According to them, one Canadiens player would be a Trophy winner if the voting were held today: captain Nick Suzuki. While he’s near the top of the league in points, ESPN considers him, so far, the best defensive forward and has him as their favourite to win the Frank J. Selke Trophy. He received 24% of the first-place votes in the exercise. On top of having 18 points in 13 games, his defensive play has been exceptional, as evidenced by the fact that the Canadiens are averaging just 1.03 goals per 60 minutes when their leader is on the ice. The three finalists they mentioned all had 14% of the first-place votes, 10% less than Suzuki.

As for coach Martin St-Louis, he was surprisingly not mentioned in the early Jack Adams conversation. That can be explained by the fact that so many teams are having surprising starts to the season. The Pittsburgh Penguins, who everyone believed would crash and burn early, are playing well, and that nets Dan Muse the title of favourite, while Joel Quenneville and Andre Tourigny are the runner-ups, thanks to their team’s superb form so far this season. If the Canadiens keep playing as they are, though, I would be shocked if St-Louis wasn’t a finalist for the second year in a row when all is said and done.

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Jack Flaherty, Shane Bieber exercise options for 2026 as more players become free agents, raise total to 162

NEW YORK — Detroit pitcher Jack Flaherty and Toronto pitcher Shane Bieber exercised their player options for 2026 rather than become eligible for free agency, and Philadelphia exercised its option on reliever José Alvarado.

San Diego pitcher Wandy Peralta also exercised his option, while Arizona outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Baltimore outfielder Tyler O’Neill and Texas outfielder Joc Pederson decided not to opt out of their contracts.

Nine more players became free agents, raising the total to 162. Teams must decide whether to make $22,025,000 qualifying offers to their eligible former players who went free.

About 20 more players potentially could go free. That group includes pitcher Andrew Kittredge, reacquired by Baltimore from the Chicago Cubs. The 35-year-old right-hander and the Orioles agreed in January to a one-year, $10 million contract that includes a $9 million team option for 2026 with a $1 million buyout.

Flaherty earned $25 million this year from his deal with the Tigers and decided to keep a $20 million salary for next season. The 30-year-old right-hander went 8-15, leading the AL in losses, and had a 4.64 ERA in 31 starts.

Bieber earned $14 million this season and decided to exercise his $16 million option for 2026. A 30-year-old right-hander who won the 2020 AL Cy Young Award, Bieber was acquired by Toronto from Cleveland at the July 31 trade deadline. He returned Aug. 22 from Tommy John surgery in 2024.

He went 4-2 with a 3.57 ERA in seven starts, helping boost Toronto to its first AL East title since 2015. He allowed Will Smith’s 11th-inning home run that lifted the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 5-4 win in Game 7 of the World Series.

Philadelphia exercised a $9 million option on Alvarado rather than pay a $500,000 buyout as part of a three-year, $22 million contract. The 30-year-old left-hander served an 80-game suspension from mid-May through mid-August for a positive drug test. He went 4-2 with a 3.81 ERA and seven saves in eight chances.

Phillies outfielder Harrison Bader turned down his $10 million mutual option for a $1.5 million buyout that finishes a one-year, $6.25 million deal he signed with Minnesota, which traded him to the Phillies.

Peralta agreed before the 2024 season to a deal guaranteeing $16.5 million over four years. He exercised a $4.25 million option for next season and also has a $4.45 million option for 2027. The 34-year-old left-hander went 6-1 with a 3.14 ERA in 71 games.

Gurriel, 32, kept a $13 million salary for 2026 and a $14 million team option for 2027 with a $5 million buyout, part of a four-year, $42 million contract he signed before the 2024 season. An All-Star in 2023, he hit .248 with 19 homers and 80 RBIs this year.

O’Neill held onto $16.5 million salaries for each of the next two seasons, part of a three-year, $49.5 million contract. The 30-year-old hit .199 with nine homers and 26 RBIs in 54 games, making three trips to the injured list because of neck inflammation, left shoulder impingement and right wrist inflammation.

Pederson agreed in January to a two-year, $37 million contract. He had the right to opt out of his $18.5 million salary for next year and an $18.5 million mutual option for 2027 but if he had opted out the Rangers had the right to exercise an option for 2026 and 2027 at those salaries. The 33-year-old batted .181 with nine homers and 29 RBIs. He fractured his right hand when he was hit by a pitch from Bryse Wilson of the Chicago White Sox on May 24 and returned July 27.

Left-hander Tim Hill’s $3 million option was exercised by the New York Yankees, who declined a $5 million option on right-hander Jonathan Loáisiga.

Cincinnati declined a $6.5 million club option on right-hander Scott Barlow in favor of a $1 million buyout, a $3 million option on left-hander Brent Suter in favor of a $250,000 buyout, and a $12 million mutual option on outfielder Austin Hays in favor of a $1 million buyout.

Catcher Elias Díaz’s $7 million mutual option was declined by San Diego for a $2 million buyout, finishing a one-year, $3.5 million contract. The Padres declined a $5 million option on left-hander Kyle Hart, who gets a $500,000 buyout as part of a one-year, $1.5 million contract. San Diego also declined a $1 million team option on infielder Tyler Wade that triggered a $50,000 buyout. He was assigned outright to Triple-A El Paso in August.

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Game Day: Everything you need to know ahead of Nashville Predators game against Philadelphia Flyers

Game day 

Who: Philadelphia Flyers (7-5-1) at Nashville Predators (5-6-4)

Where: Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, Tenn. 

When: 7 p.m. CST 

TV: FanDuel Sports Network South

Radio: 102.5 The Game 

Betting line (via BetMGM): Nashville +1.5 Montreal -1.5. Over/under: 5.5 (-110/-110) 

Predators lose to Wild in overtime on technicality 

After Steven Stamkos scored with 0.3 seconds left in the third period to tie the game, 2-2, the Wild responded with a shocking goal of their own in overtime. 

With 1:22 left in overtime, Predators goalie Justus Annunen dislodged the left mooring of the net. Minnesota's Marcus Johansson's shot attempt went off the side of the net, but rebounded back to him due to the angle at which the net was dislodged. 

Johansson put the rebound over the goal line, and it was ruled a goal, as officials deemed the puck would've gone into the net if it hadn't been dislodged. The issue comes with Johansson's second attempt, as he wouldn't have gotten the rebound if the net hadn't been off its mooring.

Stamkos sounded off after the game. 

"It's a weird play. I can see the confusion, but the confusing part for us was why it was so emphatically called a goal," Steven Stamkos said. "I get it. If the net comes off and the puck goes in right away, it's no problem. But he missed the net and the puck actually bounced back to him because the net was sideways.

"My interpretation of the rule is that if the net weren't off, the puck wouldn't have come back to him." 

Takeaways: Despite Outplaying Wild, Nashville Predators Fall In Overtime On TechnicalityTakeaways: Despite Outplaying Wild, Nashville Predators Fall In Overtime On TechnicalityThe Nashville Predators tied the game as the clock ran out in regulation, only to lose in frustrating fashion in overtime.

Zachary L'Heureux enters lineup 

Following Cole Smith's week-to-week upper body injury, Zachary L'Heureux has been recalled from the Milwaukee Admirals.

He dressed for the Predators' game against the Wild on Tuesday, but did not play, as Tyson Jost played on the left wing of the fourth line. 

L'Heureux was a regular in Nashville last season, playing in 62 games and scoring 15 points. He's played seven games in Milwaukee this season, scoring six points. 

Nashville Predators recall Zachary L'Heureux from Milwaukee AdmrialsNashville Predators recall Zachary L'Heureux from Milwaukee AdmrialsAfter an injury sidelines a forward, L'Heureux returns to Nashville's lineup, ready to contribute to the Predators' next game.

Scouting the Flyers 

The Predators and Flyers will be facing off for the second time this season, with Philadelphia winning the last meeting, 4-1, on Oct. 30. 

In that game, the Predators went down 2-0 in the second period off goals from Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale. Matthew Wood scored his first career NHL goal in the first period to cut into the Flyers' lead. 

Zegras scored on the power play in the third period, and Travis Konecny added an empty net goal. Zegras had three points on the night with two goals and an assist. Nashville outplayed Philadelphia, outshooting them 33-18. 

The Flyers have struggled a bit since that win, going 1-2-0 over their last three games. They suffered back to back losses to Toronto and Calgary before defeating Montreal in a shootout on the road. 

Zegras, who was acquired by the Flyers from the Ducks in the offseason, leads Philadelphia in scoring with 15 points in 13 games (four goals, 11 assists). 

The Flyers have also emerged as the most penalized team in the NHL, logging 184 penalty minutes this season. Nashville has 129 PIM. 

Divisional rankings 

Central 

1. Colorad: 14 GP, 8-1-5, 21 pts 

2. Winnipeg: 13 GP, 9-4-0, 18 pts 

3. Utah: 14 GP, 9-5-0, 18 pts 

4. Dallas: 13 GP, 7-3-3, 17 pts 

5. Chicago: 14 GP, 6-5-3, 15 pts 

6. Nashville: 15 GP, 5-6-4, 14 pts 

7.  Minnesota: 14 GP, 5-6-3, 13 pts 

8. St. Louis: 14 GP, 4-8-2, 10 pts 

Metropolitan

1. New Jersey: 13 GP, 9-4-0, 18 pts 

2. Pittsburgh: 14 GP, 8-4-2, 18 pts 

3. Carolina: 12 GP, 8-4-0, 16 pts 

4. Washington: 13 GP, 7-5-1, 15 pts 

5. Philadelphia: 13 GP, 7-5-1, 15 pts 

6. NY Islanders: 13 GP, 6-5-2, 14 pts 

7. Columbus: 13 GP, 7-6-0, 14 pts 

8. NY Rangers: 14 GP, 6-6-2, 14 pts

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Penguins Speculation Goes Quiet, Kadri Rumors Keep Buzzing

Earlier this week, we noted recent speculation about Evgeni Malkin's future with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

He and his teammates are off to a better-than-expected start to this season, but some observers question if it's sustainable and if Malkin would be open to a move at the NHL trade deadline.

However, Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos suggested the Penguins' strong start could take Malkin, Bryan Rust, and Rickard Rakell out of the rumor mill if they can remain in the playoff chase. Those players have frequently surfaced in media trade chatter since the summer, but Kypreos doesn't see them going anywhere if they're still in the hunt for a postseason berth.

The Penguins' start has also silenced the trade rumors that were buzzing about Sidney Crosby at the start of the season. TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported that Penguins GM Kyle Dubas' plan remains building for the future while staying competitive this season.

LeBrun wondered if the Penguins could stay in playoff contention this season but acknowledged that their current performance has ended the Crosby trade chatter, at least for now.

NHL Rumor Roundup: Latest Trade Talk About The Maple Leafs, Oilers And Penguins NHL Rumor Roundup: Latest Trade Talk About The Maple Leafs, Oilers And Penguins The Toronto Maple Leafs are trying to find a new home for David Kampf, the Edmonton Oilers could move a depth player or two to make room for returning veterans, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are in the market for a left-shot defenseman.

Meanwhile, the ongoing woes of the Calgary Flames have ensured that Nazem Kadri remains a fixture in the rumor mill.

The 35-year-old center celebrated his 1,000th NHL game on Wednesday, scoring a goal in a 6-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Some pundits have linked Kadri to the Montreal Canadiens, suggesting he would address their need for a second-line center. However, Jack Todd of the Montreal Gazette considered Kadri to be an unsuitable option, citing his age, $7 million average annual value through 2028-29 and history of undisciplined play.

Kypreos believes the Carolina Hurricanes could be a suitor for Kadri, pointing out that they've relentlessly pursued a top player in the trade market since last season. However, Kypreos also claimed that the Hurricanes are on Kadri's no-trade list.

The Hurricanes could request permission from the Flames to speak with Kadri and his agent and try to sell them on Carolina. If the Hurricanes make a substantial pitch, Flames GM Craig Conroy could try to convince Kadri to accept a trade.

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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.

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Reece Walsh lives up to star billing to become toast of English rugby league

Australia’s talisman, likened to LeBron James, has left lasting legacy in Ashes series amid gloom of sport’s future

The debrief is yet to begin over the failure of England’s Ashes campaign both on and off the field, and just how big a missed opportunity the past few weeks could prove to be for the game in this country. But amid all the gloom, there has been an unlikely beacon of hope for the sport’s promoters.

As the 52,000-plus crowd filtered away from Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday evening, there was a huge ruckus outside the players’ entrance. Not for any of the home players, who had once again flattered to deceive. Not even for Nathan Cleary, regarded as the world’s biggest star for a number of years and someone with genuine worldwide cut-through.

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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Week 4: Top Adds & Streaming Targets

Injuries are already impacting the fantasy basketball landscape in Week 4. Finding the right waiver wire pickups is crucial for success. We're targeting players capitalizing on new opportunities, like Jaime Jaquez and Jusuf Nurkic, who are seeing more minutes. This article breaks down the top 5 fantasy basketball adds, all rostered in fewer than 40% of leagues, who can provide immediate value as streaming targets or high-upside stashes. Let's find your next league-winner.

NBA Fantasy Waiver Wire Adds

Jaime Jaquez, Miami Heat (39% rostered)

With Tyler Herro continuing to work his way back after a preseason injury, Miami is being forced to hand certain players additional minutes. Following a strong rookie campaign, Jaquez scaled back his production last season and was not really on the standard league radar heading into the 2025-26 campaign. However, as fate would have it, he has been the biggest beneficiary when it comes to both playing time and production. He has scored at least 20 points in three of the past five games, playing close to starter's minutes despite coming off the bench. Through eight games, he is averaging 17.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 0.9 steals in 29.1 minutes per contest, good enough for top 90 value in standard formats. The shooting is likely unsustainable, and Herro will return at some point. For now, however, he should be rostered in just about every league.

Jusuf Nurkic, Utah Jazz (29% rostered)

Speaking of unforeseen opportunities, Nurkic might be the poster child for that discussion following a season-ending shoulder injury to Walker Kessler. Kessler lasted just five games before being forced to go under the knife, meaning Nurkic is the next cab off the rank, so to speak. He has now started the past three games, having played at least 30 minutes in each of the past two. While his scoring is likely to be inconsistent, he can be an elite source of rebounds, while also providing out-of-position assists and a smattering of defensive stats. In three games as a starter, he is averaging 6.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.0 steals. His value could certainly have a shelf life, especially if the Jazz opt to lean into Kyle Filipowski at some point. For now, Nurkic simply needs to be rostered in all leagues, in what can only be described as an act now, think later situation.

Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons (27% rostered)

We will almost certainly reach a point where Stewart is nothing more than a possible streaming candidate. However, that point is not now. Despite playing as the primary backup behind Jalen Duren, Stewart has found a way to be a consistent producer, especially on the defensive end. In eight games played, he is averaging 11.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.3 three-pointers. While his overall numbers have been inflated by the fact that he has started the past two games, it's fair to say that Stewart has been a pleasant surprise thus far. Tobias Harris is currently sidelined due to an ankle injury, resulting in the short-term promotion for Stewart. That will obviously come to an end at some point in the near future, but for now, Stewart shouldn't really be floating around on too many waiver wires.

Isaiah Jackson, Indiana Pacers (18% rostered)

Seen as a potential breakout candidate coming into the season, Jackson was a popular target late in drafts. Despite being handed the starting role, Jackson's role was largely underwhelming to begin the campaign, playing no more than 15 minutes in each of the first four games. This resulted in him being dropped in a number of leagues, and rightfully so. However, things have taken a turn in recent times, having now played at least 20 minutes in four straight games. During that span, he has averaged 12.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.3 combined steals and blocks, highlighted by a 21-and-10 performance in a loss to the Bucks. While there are certainly no guarantees when it comes to the center rotation in Indiana, now might be the time to take a chance on Jackson, just in case he can distance himself from the competition.

Josh Minott, Boston Celtics (16% rostered)

Minott has provided managers with plenty of headaches already, likely having been on and off waivers across most leagues. Following a strong preseason, the hope was that Minott would finally get an opportunity to prove himself on the big stage. However, those hopes were dashed early in the piece, averaging 4.0 points and 1.0 steals in 9.3 minutes per game over the first three contests. The Celtics lost all three of those games, forcing a change in the starting lineup. Enter Minott. He has since started in six straight games, averaging 10.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.5 three-pointers in 22.25 minutes per game. Although his playing time remains inconsistent, he has proven to be somewhat of a measuring stick when it comes to Boston's overall energy. Assuming you can absorb the lows, Minott should be picked up everywhere.

Drop Candidates

  • Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz
  • CJ McCollum, Washington Wizards
  • Kevin Porter Jr, Milwaukee Bucks
  • Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
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Lakers takeaways: Luka Doncic's defense (yes, defense) helps hold off Spurs

Lakers guard Luka Doncic drives to the hoop under pressure from Spurs guard Devin Vassell at Crypto.com Arena.
Lakers guard Luka Doncic drives to the hoop under pressure from Spurs guard Devin Vassell at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

The only way that game could have ended was with a free throw.

Thanks to two missed free throws from San Antonio’s Julian Champagnie with 0.2 seconds remaining, the Lakerssurvived 118-116 Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs in a disjointed game that dragged on for nearly three hours and included 66 total fouls and 84 free throws.

The Lakers (7-2) won their fifth consecutive game, fighting through exhaustion from playing in their third game in four days and a short rotation without guard Austin Reaves. At halftime, players and coaches acknowledged how tired they felt. Coach JJ Redick said when he woke up at 6:30 a.m. Wednesday “it was like a bus had hit me.”

But the team that still hasn’t approached its fully healthy form rallied in a way that continued to impress its coach.

Read more:Luka Doncic scores 35 points as Lakers win foul-filled game over Spurs

“Our group is so connected right now,” Redick said. “We were able to get back together and there was no quitting, there was no splintering.”

Here are three takeaways from the game:

Defense wins championships 

Marcus Smart couldn’t believe the stat line. Five steals and two blocks for who?

“Lukaaaaa,” Smart said, elongating Luka Doncic’s name while smiling toward his star teammate who was sitting with his feet in an ice bucket with ice bags wrapped around his knees.

Doncic matched his career high for steals in a regular-season game Wednesday. The guard averaging 40 points per game claimed his defense was the only thing he did well on a night when he finished one rebound short of a triple-double. While collecting 35 points, 12 assists and nine rebounds, he was an inefficient nine for 27 from the field and four for 11 from three. He missed four free throws, turned the ball over four times and, after picking up his fifth foul with 7:58 remaining in the fourth, nearly fouled out.

The last fact took Rui Hachimura by surprise.

“I've never seen him like that,” Hachimura said. “But you know, he's trying to be more aggressive [on defense] and that's what we need from him, too.”

Read more:No Big 3, no problem: Nick Smith Jr. helps lead Lakers to fourth consecutive win

Redick said Doncic had a few games when he started slow defensively in terms of physicality and engagement, but has been overall “really good” this season. Even when he was switched on to Spurs star Victor Wembanyama or point guard Stephon Castle, Doncic still competed well.

“There wasn't matador defense,” Redick said. “He still guarded. And that was huge. The reason we won the game is because we guarded in the fourth quarter. Our fourth-quarter defense was the No. 1 reason we won the game."

The Lakers limited the Spurs to 36.8% shooting from the field during the fourth quarter while forcing six turnovers. Wembanyama was held to 19 points on labored five-for-14 shooting with eight rebounds. He was nine for 11 on free throws and fouled out with 1:40 remaining when he bowled over Hachimura.

Hachimura delivers the plays of the game 

Lakers forward Rui Hachimura, right, celebrates with coach JJ Redick during the second half of Wednesday's game.
Lakers forward Rui Hachimura, right, celebrates with coach JJ Redick during the second half of Wednesday's game. (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)

Redick credited Hachimura with the two biggest plays of the game. Besides drawing Wembanyama’s sixth foul, Hachimura also hit a three-pointer off a Doncic assist that put the Lakers up by two with 5:15 remaining. Redick said it exemplified Hachimura’s unique ability to go long stretches seemingly without even touching the ball but still making key shots.

“Somehow mentally, I have to be kind of ready for the moment,” Hachimura said. “... But I think that comes with patience and my mindset to be ready for the moment.”

Hachimura is one of just three Lakers players who have played in all nine games this season as the Lakers have rolled out seven different starting lineups. He finished with 15 points, including two made three-pointers that came in critical situations. He put the Lakers up by one with 4:57 remaining in the second quarter as the team erased a 10-point first-half deficit. A double team pinned Doncic close to the baseline and the guard nearly hopped out of bounds while slinging a one-handed pass over his head to Hachimura, who splashed the shot.

The Spurs called a timeout. Doncic approached Hachimura and bowed to him in appreciation.

"He told me I didn't pass him the ball today, so I got to do that more," Doncic said jokingly. "No, jokes aside, I think he's been amazing. Just staying ready in the moment. And he's a great guy, too. So that kind of people you want to have on your team and the start he's having, it's very underrated and we need him to keep going."

LeBron James progressing, Lakers play it safe with Austin Reaves

Reaves missed his second consecutive game with right groin soreness, but the Lakers got positive news on LeBron James, who has progressed to contact basketball activity, the team announced Thursday.

Four weeks after being diagnosed with sciatica in his right side, James will be re-evaluated by team physicians in one to two weeks, the team added. The 40-year-old superstar hasn’t played this season and was limited to only individual work during training camp.

The timeline for James’ potential return could have him out for at least six more games, including an upcoming five-game trip beginning in Atlanta on Saturday.

Read more:How Marcus Smart grades the Lakers' early season hustle

Redick hopes Reaves can return to play the Hawks, which would be six days since he was injured during the first quarter against the Miami Heat.

But “we’re not going to put him at risk,” Redick emphasized.

“It was the right decision, both from him and from performance, to hold him out tonight,” Redick said. “Those injuries, or a further injury on that, is hard. I've had 'em. I've had surgery, we're trying to be safe with him.”

Reaves participated fully in shootaround on Wednesday before the game and even got an extra workout after the morning session to test his injury, but was held out after consultation from staff and trainers.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

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Giants claim former Dodgers outfielder Justin Dean as part of roster shuffle

Giants claim former Dodgers outfielder Justin Dean as part of roster shuffle originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO — Justin Dean started his week riding in a parade in Los Angeles. He’ll end it on the 40-man roster for the Los Angeles Dodgers’ longtime rival.

The outfielder was one of two players claimed by the Giants on Thursday, along with Cincinnati Reds lefty Reiver Sanmartin. To clear a necessary roster spot, the organization DFA’d right-hander Mason Black, who appeared in the big leagues each of the past two seasons. 

Dean, 28, is the most well-known of the three after being right in the middle of a controversial moment in the World Series. When a line drive got wedged into the bottom of the outfield wall at Rogers Centre in the ninth inning of Game 6, Dean alertly raised both hands and got a ground-rule double call as the play was ruled dead.

Dean, a strong defender who can play all three spots, didn’t get a plate appearance during the postseason but entered 13 games as a defensive replacement. He made 18 appearances for the Dodgers during the regular season, almost all of which were for defense. He was 0-for-2 with a stolen base, but he did post a .378 on-base percentage in Triple-A. 

The Giants have a large collection of young outfielders on their 40-man roster but figure to part with multiple players during the offseason. Marco Luciano, Luis Matos and Wade Meckler are all out of minor league options, and Jerar Encarnacion, Grant McCray and Drew Gilbert are also on the 40-man. Jung Hoo Lee and Heliot Ramos are locked in as starters, but the front office will likely be looking for an everyday option in right field this winter. 

Sanmartin, 29, is the type of player who likely will be targeted often this offseason by Buster Posey, Zack Minasian and the rest of the front office. The Giants need to rebuild just about an entire bullpen, and they don’t have a lot of depth from the left side. Erik Miller came off the 60-day IL at the end of the postseason and is healthy after missing the entire second half with elbow discomfort. Joey Lucchesi is arb-eligible, but the organization is generally short on left-handed depth. 

Sanmartin has a 5.66 ERA in 62 big league appearances, but only one of those has come in the past two years. He had elbow surgery in 2023, but posted a 3.34 ERA in Triple-A last season. 

The Giants need starting pitching help this offseason, but Black had fallen far down the depth chart and finished his season as a reliever. A third-round pick in 2021, Black had a 6.47 ERA in 10 big league appearances for the Giants and a 5.81 ERA in Triple-A this season. 

The 40-man roster is again full after Thursday’s moves. Justin Verlander, Wilmer Flores, Dominic Smith and Tom Murphy are free agents, but the Giants also had to bring Miller and Randy Rodriguez off the 60-day IL.

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