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History of Dodgers playing the Braves in the postseason

Baseball: NLDS Playoffs: Los Angeles Dodgers Juan Uribe (9) victorious after hitting game-winning home run vs Atlanta Braves at Dodger Stadium. Game 4. Sequence. Los Angeles, CA 10/7/2013 CREDIT: Robert Beck (Photo by Robert Beck /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X157033 TK2 R1 F295 )

LOS ANGELES — The 2026 National League Division Series is the sixth postseason matchup between the Dodgers and Braves, dating back to 1996, and the fourth playoff matchup between the two teams in the last nine years.

This doesn’t count when the Dodgers and Milwaukee Braves tied for the best record in the National League in 1959, and the Dodgers won a best-of-3 playoff for the pennant in two games, since those counted as regular season contests.

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The Dodgers beat the Braves in the NLDS in 2013 and 2018, both in four games, then beat Atlanta in seven games in a classic 2020 NLCS, coming back from down three games to one.

Atlanta swept the Dodgers in the 1996 NLDS and beat the Dodgers in six games in the 2021 NLCS.

Let’s take a brief look back at each previous October tilt.

1996 NLDS: Braves 3, Dodgers 0

In the first few years of the Division Series, “home-field advantage” meant playing the first two games on the road before coming home for the final three. So the wild card Dodgers were home to start off against the 96-win Braves, but it didn’t affect Atlanta much.

The Braves won two one-run games at Dodger Stadium, with John Smoltz allowing a run in nine innings of Game 1 before Javy López homered off of Antonio Osuna in the 10th inning. Greg Maddux allowed two unearned runs in seven innings of Game 2, then the Braves cruised in Atlanta in Game 3 to complete the sweep.

2013 NLDS: Dodgers 3, Braves 1

Juan Uribe was terrible in the first two years of his Dodgers contract, but turned things around in 2013. Even when he failed, he came up aces that year, including bunting foul twice down a run with Yasiel Puig on second base and nobody out in the eighth inning. Forced to swing, Uribe hit a two-run home run off David Carpenter while Craig Kimbrel watched from the visiting bullpen, sending the Dodgers to the NLCS.

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2018 NLDS: Dodgers 3, Braves 1

Hyun-jin Ryu (seven innings in Game 1) and Clayton Kershaw (eight innings in Game 2) did the heavy lifting in two shutout wins in Los Angeles, then the Dodgers closed out in four games in Atlanta. Ronald Acuña Jr. hit a grand slam off Walker Buehler to win Game 3 for the Braves, a moment Buehler has cited multiple times as helping him learn how to deal with failure and embrace pressure situations going forward.

That Game 3 win in Atlanta was the last Braves win in a game facing elimination before Thursday’s wild card win over the Phillies in Game 3.

2020 NLCS: Dodgers 4, Braves 3

The Dodgers erased a 3-1 series deficit at Globe Life Field in Texas. Will Smith homered off Will Smith to key a Game 5 win, and Cody Bellinger hit the pennant-winning home run in Game 7, and dislocated his shoulder in the celebration.

2021 NLCS: Braves 4, Dodgers 2

The Dodgers three healthy Cy Young Award-vote-getting starting pitchers broken down by the NLCS, with Max Scherzer unable to pitch in the series at all. Eddie Rosario was Superman, hitting a robust .560/.607/1.040 with three home runs to win NLCS MVP.

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Rangers rookie Dylan Garand shuts out Red Wings one week after he was cut

Detroit Red Wings center Michael Rasmussen tries to deflect the puck in front of New York Rangers goalie Dylan Garand.
Detroit Red Wings center Michael Rasmussen (27) tries to deflect the puck in front of New York Rangers goalie Dylan Garand in the second period of a game at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026.

DETROIT — And on the Rangers’ third game in four nights, Dylan Garand pitched his first career shutout. 

The rookie netminder will be the Blueshirts’ backup goalie to start October after all following Joonas Korpisalo’s placement on injured reserve before their home opener. Just two practices later in Hartford, Garand was already on his way back to New York before he made his season debut and anchored a 2-0 win over the Red Wings on Friday night. 

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Suddenly, the so-called competition for the spot behind Igor Shesterkin during preseason is irrelevant. 

Garand may not have officially won the No. 2 job out of camp, but the 24-year-old sure looked capable of changing that following a 22-save performance Friday night. 

“Definitely craziest week of my life, honestly,” said Garand, who became the first Rangers goalie since Henrik Lundqvist (2005-06) to earn at least one point in each of his first NHL games. “Cut on Sunday. Waivers Monday. No claim. Go down to Hartford, get an apartment. And then, you know, two practices and back up and playing on Friday. Crazy, crazy week.” 

The young goalie was particularly sharp in his season debut. He manned the net with the sort of laser focus that comes when there are people to prove wrong. 

New York Rangers goalie Dylan Garand makes a save in the second period against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

After proclaiming his desire to never go back to the AHL at the end of last season, Garand was sequestered from the main NHL group during training camp. It quickly became clear the backup job was Korpisalo’s to lose from the moment the Rangers acquired him from Boston on July 1. 

“As good as I can,” Garand said of how he handled the demotion. “Proud of myself for the way I just kind of left it out there, and you know, it was out of my control. So I just focused on what I could control, I did that. Obviously, what happened, happened, and it is what it is. Just happy to be back here. It was a great win tonight.” 

Concerns over the possibility of Garand getting claimed may have been overblown, but they weren’t unwarranted. On the same waiver wire last weekend, the Jets claimed Clay Stevenson and the Devils picked up Remi Poirier — two of three young goalies who were taken off waivers this preseason. 

Had Garand been claimed, this Korpisalo injury could’ve been a devastating blow to the Rangers. 

Detroit Red Wings center Michael Rasmussen (27) tries to deflect the puck in front of New York Rangers goalie Dylan Garand in the second period of a game at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Instead, the Rangers were fortunate to recall Garand just five days after cutting him. 

“It speaks volumes for his character,” head coach Mike Sullivan said. “He’s just a good person, first and foremost. He loves hockey. You can see it. I can see it every time I see him walk through the door. The way he works on his game. He’s a fierce competitor. He wants to play in the NHL. I understand that … he’s battling. He’s controlling what he can. It’s hard. Pro sports are competitive. Things don’t always go your way and you’ve got to be able to work your way through the ebbs and flows of a career. 

“The thing I love about Dylan is he controls those things that are within his power. He’s got a great attitude. His effort is always where it needs to be. I really have a lot of admiration for him for how he handles his circumstance.” 

Sullivan said he and Garand have had numerous conversations throughout the entire process, with the Rangers head coach assuring that the Canadian goaltender knows the organization believes in him. 

Dylan Garand (33) of the New York Rangers celebrates his shutout with teammates after a game against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. The Rangers shut out Detroit 2-0. NHLI via Getty Images

The belief Garand already has in himself, however, has been evident since he made his NHL debut late last season. 

Friday night only gave him even more validation.

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Keon Ellis finds Nets ‘safe space’ in Jordi Fernandez reunion

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Keon Ellis signed with the Nets this summer after spending last season with the Cavs, and later the Kings, Image 2 shows Jordi Fernandez, while an assistant with the Kings, previously coached Ellis for two seasons

It was a simple answer, really. 

Keon Ellis came to play for the Nets for one major reason: Jordi Fernández. 

“In this game — and it is a business — having someone like Jordi being the head coach, someone you’re familiar with, [is big]. You know all the schemes, you know what he’s about, you know what they want to run,” Ellis said Friday after practice. “It’s a safe space right there. He’s familiar with my game, I’m familiar with how he rocks. That was the No. 1 thing.” 

“He knows how I play, and I know how he wants his team to play. I know I can have a big impact in that way.” 

Keon Ellis signed with the Nets this summer after spending last season with the Cavs, and later the Kings. Getty Images

The two were together with the Kings from 2022-24, when Fernández worked under then-Kings head coach Mike Brown — and Fernández left such an impact on Ellis in that time that he wanted a reunion. 

The two sides agreed during the offseason to a two-year, $18 million contract, with a full mutual option for the second year. The 6-foot-4 Ellis, known for his defense and 3-point shotmaking, hopes this reunion can serve as a spark.

Last season didn’t go as planned as he averaged 6.7 points split between Sacramento and Cleveland after a February trade, one season after posting 8.3 ppg for the Kings. He shot 36.3 percent from 3-point range but had been at 42.9 percent over his first three NBA seasons. 

Jordi Fernandez, while an assistant with the Kings, previously coached Ellis for two seasons. Getty Images

The Nets are banking on more than just his shooting touch. The hope is the 26-year-old can be a defensive stopper. Last season, Ellis ranked in the 93rd percentile in steals (2.7), in the 95th percentile in blocks (1.5) and the 96th percentile in both turnovers forced (1.6) and deflections (6.4) per 100 possessions. His stop percentile of 4.4 ranked near the top of the league. 

“I think Keon’s got the best hands in the NBA, and that’s hard to teach,” Fernández said. “At the same time, you want to be disciplined and follow the schemes, whatever the game plan is. I trust him. I know he’s very diligent with his work and everything, and I know he can perform at a high level. He’s going to help us a lot at the defensive end.” 

Early on, he has impressed his new teammates. 

“Strong start,” Michael Porter Jr. said. “Keon has been hooping these first two days. He plays the right way. He plays defense. He can really shoot the ball, and he’s been just overall very solid.” 

The most important thing for both Ellis and Fernández is there is a comfort level already in place. Each knows what the other expects. 

“You have a guy with many intangibles, is a super pro. He has probably the best hands in the NBA, can shoot the ball, can handle, is a good human,” the Nets coach said. “He’s coming here and is about business. It was a no-brainer. 

“It’s not for me to say [how much of an impact he will make]. It’s for me to believe every time he guards he’s going to be good on that player, and every time he shoots the ball, I believe it’s going to go in.” 

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Tuch scores twice in his first game for Washington, helping the Capitals beat the Hurricanes 5-2

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Alex Tuch scored twice in his first game for Washington, Alex Ovechkin opened his 22nd NHL season with an assist and the Capitals beat the Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes 5-2 on Friday night.

Tuch joined the Capitals in an offseason trade after five seasons with Buffalo. The 41-year-old Ovechkin assisted on Tuch's opening goal in Washington's three-goal first period.

Cole Hutson, Jakob Chychrun and Ryan Leonard also scored for the Capitals, and Logan Thompson made 31 saves.

Sebastian Aho and Logan Stankoven scored for Carolina, and Brandon Bussi stopped 22 shots. The Hurricanes opened Tuesday night at home with a 1-0 overtime loss to Florida.

Tuch opened the scoring at 6:33 of the first period, beating Busso with a wrist shot. Hutson scored on a snap shot with 8:27 left in the period, and Tuch connected on a backhander with 5:37 to go.

Jakob Chychrun made it 4-0 on a power play at 1:36 of second.

Aho got one back for Carolina on a power play with 3:10 left in the second, and Leonard made it 5-1 eight seconds later. Stankoven scored midway through the third.

Up next

Capitals: At Tampa Bay on Saturday night.

Hurricanes: At Philadelphia on Saturday night.

___

See AP’s full NHL coverage here

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Red Wings fans boo star center Dylan Larkin after trade request drama

Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets in the first period of an NHL hockey game in Detroit, Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

Dylan Larkin was given an icy welcome from Red Wings fans on Friday.

Ahead of Detroit’s season opener against the Rangers, Larkin, who is out with an upper-body injury, was met with a barrage of boos from Red Wings fans as he showed up on the video board while being introduced at Little Caesars Arena.

The fans’ jeers stem from Larkin’s trade request from Detroit this summer after spending 11 seasons with the franchise.

Larkin, who has a full no-trade clause, revealed that he wanted to be dealt to the Golden Knights, the Panthers, or the Wild, the Detroit Free Press reported in June.

His trade request kicked off a drama-filled summer for the Red Wings, who saw franchise icon Steve Yzerman step down as general manager in July.

Larkin’s decision also comes after the Red Wings have failed to reach the postseason in ten straight seasons, something the star center has previously criticized management for.

Also, as of Friday, top defenseman Simon Edvinsson remains unsigned with the season already underway.

Larkin, a Michigan native, has been a staple for the Red Wings since being drafted by them in 2014.

Across 808 career games with Detroit, Larkin, 30, has racked up 276 goals and 367 assists, totaling to 643 points, 10th all-time for the Red Wings.

Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets in the first period of an NHL hockey game in Detroit on April 8, 2026. AP Photo/Paul Sancya

Detroit named him team captain during the 2020-21 season for his leadership, but that title was stripped from the club in September following his trade request.

“The Red Wings will begin the 2026-27 season without a captain being named,” the team said in a statement last month. “Any further discussions or decisions will be made once new hockey operations leadership is in place.”

Larkin has acknowledged the loss of his captaincy, telling reporters last month that he understands “why that decision was made.”

The three-time All-Star still has five seasons remaining on the eight-year, $69.6 million deal he signed back in 2023.

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Dodgers hope Shohei Ohtani is better –– but are ‘not so sure’ what to expect in playoffs

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani adjusts his helmet during a game against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park, Image 2 shows Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms up in the on-deck circle

When it comes to Shohei Ohtani’s health, the Dodgers have plenty of hope — but few precise expectations.

That, at least, was the way manager Dave Roberts framed his superstar’s status on the eve of the National League Division Series on Friday, saying he was hopeful Ohtani would play well after battling right arm and left knee injuries during the second half of the season, but also acknowledging that he was “not so sure” about exactly what the slugger would be able to provide.

“I know that once the lights turn on, the postseason starts, [his] focus will be heightened,” Roberts said. “I expect good things. I really do. We just haven’t seen it enough really for me to forecast it.”

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) looks towards the home plate umpire against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning at Oracle Park in San Francisco, California, Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Indeed, as it has been for much of the last several months, Ohtani’s health remains a major question mark at the outset of the Dodgers’ pursuit of a third straight World Series.

By all accounts, the 32-year-old made progress during the bye week the team had to begin the playoffs.

While addressing reporters on Friday for the first time since before going on the injured list in mid-September — when his injuries had become so bad he was showing visible signs of pain at the plate — Ohtani insisted his ailments had “gotten much better” and that the past few days had been “productive” for his previously slumping swing.

“I think my swing has gotten better,” he said in Japanese. “If I can make solid adjustments today, I think I can go into tomorrow in sufficient condition.”

However, Roberts also reiterated that the four-time MVP is “not 100%” following an 11-for-70 slump in his final 18 games of the regular season (the last five of which came after he returned from the IL last week).

Ohtani, meanwhile, described his injuries as something he will have to continue to manage during the playoffs, unsure if further treatment will be needed in the offseason.

During the Japanese portion of his news conference, he even revealed that, during his stint on the injured list, he avoided holding his young daughter with his aching right arm.

“I was able to hold my daughter using my left arm,” he said.

Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms up in the on-deck circle in the top of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. Getty Images

Ohtani’s injuries have already robbed him of his two-way role this October, limiting him to hitting-only duties since early July.

Now, the team can only hope his offensive production isn’t diminished this postseason, either, hardly a guarantee given the way he looked for much of the last two months at the plate.

“The physical part, I think, he’s kind of moving past that,” hitting coach Aaron Bates said. “Now it’s just gaining the timing of different speeds and when he wants to get his move off, that sort of thing. Kind of the usual stuff that hitters go through, as opposed to trying to cheat [to pitches] because the physical components are limiting them.”

During the club’s bye week workouts, Ohtani took batting practice on the field multiple times — typically a rarity for him — and even sent a couple balls nearly to the outfield scoreboards, according to Bates.

“It was as good as I’ve seen it this year,” Bates said, “as far as just the way the ball was coming off [the bat].”

He also got live at-bats in the team’s intrasquad scrimmages, including a couple matchups against Yoshinobu Yamamoto on Wednesday. 

“Yoshi won the matchup,” Roberts joked, but Ohtani at the very least didn’t strike out.

Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers bats in the seventh inning against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Getty Images

Whether that will be enough for Ohtani to truly turn the corner, however, remains to be seen.

For the one intrasquad scrimmage reporters were allowed to observe on Thursday, Ohtani was nowhere to be seen (staying back in the clubhouse and indoor batting cages to get his work in instead).

Ohtani himself also failed to offer much of an expectation for how he might perform this October, saying only: “I think I can get closer to the results I want if I can adjust to the atmosphere of the postseason.”

For now, such hopes will have to suffice.

Only when Game 1 of the NLDS begins on Saturday afternoon will Ohtani and the Dodgers know exactly where he is at.

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More Bad News: Flyers Prospect Maksim Sokolovskii Out With an Injury

As if the start of the 2026-27 season couldn't be more glum for the Philadelphia Flyers, one of their top prospects is already set to miss time through an injury.

On Friday night, Sokolovskii's club, the OHL London Knights, announced that the 18-year-old defenseman will be out week-to-week with a lower-body injury.

Sokolovskii is now the latest in a growing line of Flyers injuries, joining players like Denver Barkey, Nikita Grebenkin, and Helge Grans on the shelf.

So far, the Flyers' 2026 first-round pick has played in just one game for the Knights this season: a 7-4 win against the Owen Sound Attack on Sept. 25.

In that game against Owen Sound, Sokolovskii quickly got himself on the highlight reels, laying a devastating hit on Attack forward Lucian Bernat and sending his opponent's stick flying in the air in cartoonish fashion.

Of course, Sokolovskii would have to answer for that and fight Julian Brown, a 6-foot-4 fellow defenseman who he was teammates with last year on London before Brown joined Owen Sound.

Unfortunately for the Flyers and their new top prospect, Sokolovskii's season will get off to a bit of a slow start after he played in only 44 regular season games for the Knights last year, plus five playoff games.

The silver lining, on the other hand, is that the 6-foot-8 Russian blue liner looked pretty good in his lone OHL appearance this season, building on the growth that the Flyers saw from him over the course of the last season that vaulted him into the first-round conversation heading into the 2026 NHL Draft.

Sokolovskii was one of the more impressive, noticeable players throughout rookie camp and the early stages of development camp, so as long as the injury isn't a long-term deal, this bump in the road shouldn't end up hampering his development this season all that much, if at all.

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Jake Sanderson Likely To Play In Saturday Opener After Senators Send Rookie Down To Belleville

The Ottawa Senators got some encouraging injury news on the eve of their 2026-27 NHL season opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Defenceman Jake Sanderson is expected to play Saturday night, although his status won’t be completely certain until the Senators see how he feels on game day.

Sanderson has missed a number of practices throughout training camp with an undisclosed injury. He returned to make his preseason debut against the Montreal Canadiens last Saturday, helped set up one goal, but left the game and did not return.

Though he was sent down on Friday, Hoyt Stanley was pleased earlier this week to make it through to the final 23 man roster (Senators YouTube).

Sanderson skated at practice on Friday and admitted it may take a little longer to get up to speed.

"Obviously, I've only played one period of preseason," Sanderson said. "I think, for me, I (need to) control what I can control, and that's my effort and my mindset, making sure I'm locked in."

Sanderson's expected return means rookie Hoyt Stanley has been returned to the Belleville Senators. Stanley was a surprise addition to Ottawa’s 23-man roster, largely because of injuries to Sanderson and Artem Zub.

Zub isn’t ready to return yet, but there was some encouraging news on that front as well. He is participating in practice again, although he remains in a yellow non-contact jersey.

There was also good news up front.

Warren Foegele will be in the lineup Saturday night after missing training camp following offseason surgery. After spending most of last season on the fourth line, he's expected to suit up tomorrow in a much better position to succeed alongside Tim Stützle and Drake Batherson.

Foegele says his mission is just to keep it simple. He's in the top six because newcomer Andre Burakovsky remains out. Like Sanderson, he also left last Saturday’s game against Montreal with an injury, but was back at practice Friday. Like Zub, Burakovsky was wearing a yellow non-contact jersey.

So while the Senators aren't completely healthy heading into opening night, their injury situation is beginning to look a lot better than it did just a few days ago.

By Steve Warne
The Hockey News Ottawa

This story was first published at The Hockey News Ottawa Senators site. For more from THN Ottawa, click one of the headlines below:

Hoyt Stanley's Surprising Selection To Senators' 23 Man Roster
Thomas Chabot Named Captain Of The Ottawa Senators
Steve Staios Provides Latest Injury Updates, Weighs In On Yakemchuk Readiness

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Red Wings' Dylan Larkin booed by fans after trade request

Detroit Red Wings star Dylan Larkin received a big reaction from fans as he appeared at Little Caesars Arena amid his trade request.

And it included a heavy layer of boos.

Larkin wasn't playing on Friday, Oct. 2 because of an upper body injury but he was introduced along with the other players who weren't dressed. He gave a wave to fans after the reaction.

Unlike Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck, who is suspended for not reporting, Larkin agreed to report to training camp. But he missed the early practices because he was hurt while training in the offseason.

The Red Wings placed him on the injured list retroactive to Aug. 15 and he will miss this weekend's games.

Larkin made the trade request after the 2025-26 season, in which Detroit missed the playoffs for a 10th consecutive season. Efforts to trade him were complicated because Steve Yzerman stepped aside as general manager. Shawn Horcoff was named interim GM.

Larkin has five years left on his contract at an $8.7 million cap hit. The longtime captain lost his "C" and the Red Wings will start the season without a captain.

Red Wings fans chant, 'Sell the team'

Larkin wasn't the only person to hear it from fans.

Early in the first period, fans began chanting, "Sell the team."

Dylan Larkin trade request update

The Detroit Free Press, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported that Larkin has increased his list of teams where he'd accept a trade.

In addition to the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild and Vegas Golden Knights, Larkin's list now includes the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals. 

Contributing: Helene St. James, Detroit Free Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Red Wings' Dylan Larkin booed by fans after trade request

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Zellweger Clears Protocol, Practices And Will Play In Home Opener

The Buffalo Sabres practiced at Key Bank Center on Friday after losing 6-3 in Columbus in the season opener on Thursday, and had defenseman Olen Zellweger on the ice for workouts for the first time since leaving the preseason game against the Blue Jackets late last month following a hit from blueliner Carson Soucy. 

The 22-year-old was acquired from the Anaheim Ducks over the summer for a second round pick, and skated alongside Owen Power, replacing righty Louis Crevier in the top four. Head coach Lindy Ruff indicated that Zellweger cleared concussion protocol and should be available to play in the home opener on Saturday against the defenseman he replaced as Power’s tandem partner, Bowen Byram, and the Chicago Blackhawks. 

Other Sabres Stories

Mrtka Looking To Take The Next Step Towards The NHL 

Where will Connor Hellebuyck end up?

Crevier was shifted down to the bottom pairing, splitting time with Zach Metsa on the right side with lefty Matt Grzelcyk. Veteran Dennis Gilbert was sent back to Rochester, who open the 2026-27 AHL season against the Calder Cup champion Toronto Marlies at Blue Cross Arena. 

In ex-Sabres news, Byram through two games with the Hawks is getting #1 defenseman ice time, averaging near 25 minutes, but has no points and is -4. This is less reflective of Byram as an individual, and more reflective of how dreadful Chicago is without Connor Bedard. 

Another former Sabre had an auspicious debut for his new club, the Edmonton Oilers. Goaltender Devon Levi, allowed seven goals on 22 shots in a wild 9-7 victory over the Vancouver Canucks. On Friday, Alex Tuch will make his Washington Capitals debut against the Carolina Hurricanes.  

Follow Michael on X, Instagram @MikeInBuffalo 

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Lakers’ training camp takeaways from first week loaded with surprises

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Los Angeles Lakers players Collin Sexton (10) and Walker Kessler (14) smile during media day, Image 2 shows Austin Reaves, Head Coach JJ Redick, and Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers pose for a portrait during NBA Media Day, Image 3 shows Los Angeles Lakers player Luka Doncic (77) holding a basketball during media day

The first week of Lakers’ training camp has passed. 

It has been a whirlwind of Purple-and-Gold-smeared optimism and excitement. 

Luka Doncic is ready to lead the Lakers back atop the league as the unequivocal head of the 17-time championship franchise. 

Austin Reaves wants to live up to his new four-year, $180 million contract. Walker Kessler is ready to run through walls.

Here are our biggest takeaways from camp so far:

1. Lakers’ perimeter defense is better than expected 

If you asked any scout what the Lakers’ biggest hole was heading into the season, the response would’ve been unanimous: perimeter defense. 

Only, the players say that’s wildly incorrect. 

In fact, Lakers coach JJ Redick cut practice short Wednesday because the competition became so intense. There are nine new players. There are two starting positions open alongside Doncic, Reaves and Kessler. 

And it’s obvious that those spots will be won by defensive effort. 

Kessler, who is the Lakers’ defensive anchor down low, has been impressed by what he has seen so far. 

Los Angeles Lakers players Collin Sexton (10) and Walker Kessler (14) pose during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California, Monday, September 28, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

“I think we’re going to be a nasty defensive team, I’m just being honest,” Kessler said. “Just seeing these guys hound the ball on the perimeter.”

Kessler said people “aren’t taking into account” how good the Lakers’ perimeter defense will be, adding that this roster has the intelligence and skill to surpass expectations.

But one question in particular stumped Kessler.

Who stood out?

“I mean, Thi [Adou Thiero], Ziaire [Williams], Quentin [Grimes], Bull [Matisse Thybulle], Van [Jarred Vanderbilt], Jake [LaRavia] — I could go through the whole team,” he said.

“Everyone’s got their own strengths, weaknesses. But I think that these guys are really good at not allowing their weaknesses to show and really focusing on their strengths, and [making] sure that’s what’s pushing them forward, especially on the defensive side.”

2. Lakers believe they’ll be championship contenders this season

It was obvious last season that the Lakers were heads and shoulders behind the top teams in the West, including the Thunder and Spurs. 

They lost their four regular-season matchups against the Thunder by an average of 29.3 points and then were swept out of the playoffs by Oklahoma City in the second round. Oh, then the Thunder lost to the Spurs in the Western Conference finals. 

The Lakers responded by completely overhauling their roster last summer, adding youth and speed. 

But let’s be real: It still seemed as though they were a few tweaks away from being able to contend. And they definitely needed time to jell, especially considering the Thunder and Spurs have been deep into the playoffs with their rosters. 

But the Lakers don’t think it will take time. 

They believe they’ve arrived. 

Austin Reaves, Head Coach JJ Redick, and Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers pose for a portrait during NBA Media Day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California, Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. NBAE via Getty Images

Said Redick: “I’m confident we’re gonna develop as a team into a championship-level team this year.”

When Reaves was asked if he agreed, he didn’t hesitate.

“I do,” he said. “Let me tell you, trying to score on Matisse and Ziaire, especially with Adou out there, too, and then Walker on the back line is not easy. I had to deal with that all day yesterday and today, and it’s not fun. So, defensively, we’re going to be much better.”

That’s great news for a team that finished 19th in defensive rating last season. As for their new defensive star? Kessler also believes the Larry O’Brien Trophy is within the team’s grasp.

“I believe so,” he said. “No question. Yeah, undoubtedly.”

3. Get ready for Luka

A fire was lit under Doncic as soon as he was shockingly dealt by the Mavericks to the Lakers in February 2025. 

Those flames were fanned when LeBron James left Los Angeles in free agency.

The Lakers are his team. 

And he’s ready. 

Los Angeles Lakers player Luka Doncic (77) is pictured during media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California, Monday, September 28, 2026. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

He says he’s fully healthy after missing last postseason because of a strained hamstring. He recently made five consecutive half-court shots, stunning Reaves into pausing his own news conference to marvel at the feat. 

He helped handpick the roster, telling Lakers brass that he wanted Reaves and Kessler as his teammates. And he paid for the entire Lakers team to fly to Slovenia so he could host a minicamp, something he had never previously done in his career. 

Doncic led the league in scoring last season (33.5 points per game), was third in assists (8.3) and finished fourth in MVP voting. 

Here’s to betting he puts up an MVP-caliber campaign this time around. 

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Heat to host Vice City night to promote 'GTA 6' and Giannis game vs Bucks

Every day they're hustlin'.

The Miami Heat announced Friday, Oct. 2 that they are hosting "A Night in Vice City" to promote the highly-anticipated release of "Grand Theft Auto 6."

The event will serve as the backdrop for the Nov. 18 game against the Milwaukee Bucks, which is the night before the Nov. 19 release date for the latest edition of the popular and controversial video game. It also will be the first time Giannis Antetokounmpo faces off against the team that drafted him and facilitated his journey to superstardom.

In a news release, the Heat said that the partnership with Rockstar Games will transform the Kaseya Center into an immersive experience based on Vice City. The fictional location is where the latest edition of the game is based, "the darkest side of the sunniest place in America." In previews for "Grand Theft Auto 6," there's palm trees, alligators, exotic cars, gold chains, dark alleys and art deco buildings on the beach with neon lights. Basically, Miami.

Best storylines for NBA preseason: Heat vibes, Alpha Sixers, Doncic domination top our list

For the game, the court will have a special design, the players will wear a new uniform and there will be other activations throughout the night. There is also a merchandise collection of T-shirts, hoodies and hats.

The campaign for "A Night in Vice City" started on Thursday, Oct. 1 with a lighting of a neon sign that says, "Welcome to Vice City" on top of the arena. The team said that it will release more information about the event leading up to it.

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An early look at the Yankees’ ALDS roster: Who makes the cut?

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 29: Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees takes batting practice prior to Game One of the American League Wild Card Series against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on September 29, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images) | Getty Images

There are still several questions to be answered about who will star for the Yankees in the American League Division Series against the Rays.

Aaron Boone met with the media during Friday’s workout day and shared crumbs of information on questionable players, including Aaron Judge and Ryan Weathers. After taking some reps during batting practice and taking some swings in the cage, Judge is still being considered to make the roster according to the Yankees manager.

The Pinstripe Alley Feed appeared divided on the subject, with some believing that he’ll make the roster and appear as a pinch-hitter. The majority, as of Friday, voted that the Yankees captain won’t make it this time.

As for the lefty who’s been on the IL since late August with a left forearm flexor strain, Boone mentioned that he “expects Weathers to be available,” but admittedly hasn’t made any official decisions as of yet.

Let’s begin with dissecting the prospective starting rotation. Boone confirmed that Gerrit Cole will get the start for Game 1, which was expected since the Yankees took care of business against Boston in a two-game sweep. He’ll be making his first postseason start for the Yankees since 2024, as he missed the majority of last season due to Tommy John surgery.

Cam Schlittler, who dominated the Red Sox in the Wild Card Series, is reportedly expected to start in Game 2. The Yankees’ ace was his dominant self as he struck out 10 in 6.1 innings. Ultimately, if it comes down to the wire, it wouldn’t be surprising if he also got the start for Game 5.

Then there’s Max Fried, who earned the win that secured the Yankees’ slot in the Division Series. He’ll likely be an option to start Game 3 in time for the Yankees’ return to the Bronx. Boone also mentioned that Carlos Rodón could get the start for either Game 3 or Game 4, if needed. We’ll almost definitely see him in a relief role if he doesn’t end up in a starting role.

The Yankees made Wild Card Series history, having just 10 pitchers and 16 position players make the roster, and it worked out well in the end. However, will history repeat itself in the ALDS? Brent Headrick, Paul Blackburn, and Will Warren will certainly be on the staff, but it’d be interesting to see Weathers in the mix if he becomes available. Ryan Yarbrough also made the Wild Card Series roster but didn’t make an appearance against Boston. The question is: Can the Yankees pull off the same feat in the Division Series with just 10 pitchers?

Moving on to the position players, there are quite a few impressive younger guys who made an impact in the Wild Card Series. George Lombard Jr., who went a combined 4-for-8 in the series with three runs, shined in the demolition of Boston’s playoff hopes. Even before the Yankees clinched their 61st postseason berth, some went as far to say that his swing reminds them of Yankees legend Derek Jeter. He also proved himself reliable on defense, which is a promising sign for his future at the position.

After getting the start in both games of the Wild Card Series, it’s also clear that Spencer Jones has earned his spot in the lineup. He recorded two hits and three runs combined in his first career postseason appearances and was flexible defensively, as he played right field in Game 2 while Trent Grisham retook his spot in center.

Grisham, on the other hand, made his return to the order on Wednesday after being sidelined for most of September with a hamstring injury. It would be surprising if he didn’t make the roster, given how compromised he looked in his brief time in the outfield, but that doesn’t seem likely since Boone seems to be relying on more position player options than not.

One of the larger unanswered questions is whether Giancarlo Stanton will be an option to face Tampa Bay. He’ll likely make it on as a pinch-hitter, especially since he made the roster for the Wild Card Series. With Ben Rice as DH and either Paul Goldschmidt or Luis García Jr. at first and Austin Wells behind the plate, there’s not much room for Stanton to squeeze into the starting lineup.

What else is there to say about Rice other than the fact that he’s the Yankees’ most productive hitter without Aaron Judge? There’s no doubt that if he keeps up his hot streak, he’ll have the Rays’ starting rotation quivering at the bump.

The Yankees will most likely have Jazz Chisholm Jr. play second and have the option to start either Anthony Volpe, Amed Rosario, or José Caballero at third. Volpe got the start at second in Game 1, and went 1-for-3 against Boston. In the locker room celebrations that followed the annihilation of the Red Sox on Wednesday night, Rice called Volpe a “menace” with a champagne bottle.

Rosario didn’t produce offensively during his Game 1 start of the Wild Card Series, but he did draw a walk after a successful ABS challenge that put Lombard Jr. in scoring position in the fourth. It’s unclear whether he’s poised to make the postseason roster over options such as Volpe and Caballero, who the latter of whom remained on the bench against the Boston.

It’s difficult to imagine that Ali Sánchez will start over Austin Wells, who went 3-for-6 in the series with three runs. Sánchez will be included on the roster as a backup.

One thing’s for sure: Cody Bellinger will be easy to count on in the field and is poised to make an impact at the plate against the Rays. He proved himself after he instantly made the Red Sox regret walking Rice in the sixth inning on Wednesday night, crushing a 3-run homer that put the Yankees ahead 8-1.

The Yankees’ official ALDS roster is expected to be released on Saturday ahead of Game 1 of the series in Tampa. Until then, Yankees fans can only hope for the best and brace for Boone’s decisions to come.

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How the Yankees fared in regular season against ALDS foe Rays

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Tampa Bay Rays' Junior Caminero celebrates after hitting a single, Image 2 shows Ben Rice of the New York Yankees at bat against the Boston Red Sox
rays-yankees

Here are five things to know about the regular-season series between the Yankees and Rays, which saw Tampa Bay win seven of 13 games, as they meet in the ALDS: 

1. Rice’s dominance 

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If Ben Rice becomes the centerpiece of the lineup again in the ALDS, depending on the status of Aaron Judge, the Yankees might find some extra comfort in that. Rice absolutely crushed the Rays during the regular season. Among teams Rice played at least five times, he recorded his third-highest OPS (1.320) against Tampa Bay.

He finished with seven homers and 12 RBIs, too, and was perhaps the Yankees’ most consistent hitter against the Rays outside of José Caballero (eight RBIs in 13 games) and Ryan McMahon (seven RBIs, eight hits in 10 games). 

Ben Rice of the New York Yankees in action at bat against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning in Game 2 of the American League Wild Card Series at Yankee Stadium on Sept. 30, 2026. Getty Images

2. Containing Caminero 

Junior Caminero became the youngest player since at least 1900 to homer in six straight games this year, and he finished his second full MLB season with 42 home runs. But against the Yankees, he managed just one homer and 10 hits, striking out 10 times and cobbling together a .565 OPS. 

3. Turf monster 

The Yankees went 2-5 at Tropicana Field this season, including a sweep back in April, and will need to win at least one game at the climate-controlled stadium to advance. They were outscored by a combined nine runs in those games, but it underscored an inability to win at the venue — a 79-95 record since the start of the 2006 season — that must change at least once. 

Junior Caminero and the AL East champion Rays will host Game 1 of the ALDS on Saturday. AP Photo/Chris O'Meara

4. Starting point 

The Yankees received strong starting pitching against Tampa Bay this year, at least with rotation names — so excluding Luis Gil, Ryan Weathers and Paul Blackburn — who will get the ball to start an ALDS game. Cam Schlittler, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón and Max Fried pitched to a 2.75 ERA across nine starts, allowing just 17 earned runs across 55 ²/₃ innings. Fried, Schlittler and Rodón all tossed at least eight innings in one outing, too. 

5. Bellinger’s struggles 

Unlike Rice, Cody Bellinger never found a rhythm at the plate against the Rays, striking out 13 times in his 47 at-bats (27.7 percent) — compared to just 76 in his other 449 at-bats in the regular season (16.9 percent) — and recording a .522 OPS.

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Atlanta Braves NLDS eve chat and discussion, October 2

Oct 1, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves outfielders Michael Harris II (23) and Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) celebrate after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in game three of the Wildcard round for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Truist Field. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Happy Victory Friday, Braves Country.

The thing that tickles me about the photo above is the bespoke “Let It Fly / Wild Card Won” sticker on that champagne bottle.

It’s been a beautiful, mostly stress-free day of enjoying the satisfaction of last night’s cathartic win and all the content that came with it. For example, did you see the BravesVision crew’s reaction to Mike’s homer?

BravesVision and Braves social media channels also have snippets of interviews in the champagne celebration, the pressers, and more. My favorite moment changes every hour, but right now it’s either Dubie being double-goggled up or Wiley’s absolute disregard for his own body and safety by not donning any protecting gear.

Anyways, more to come from us on the Divisonal Series that kicks off tomorrow. Who do you got for Padres/Brewers, White Sox/Guardians, and Yankees/Rays?

But the floor is yours tonight to speculate on the Braves’ NLDS roster, pitching plans, keys to beating LA, and more. I’ll leave you with this incredible field view and crowd reaction to Money Mike’s ridiculous(ly beautiful) homer.