Posts

Posted on

Gerrit Cole put on 15-day injured list by Yankees rather than 60-day IL

SAN FRANCISCO — Ace Gerrit Cole was put on the 15-day injured list by the New York Yankees before the season opener against San Francisco rather than the 60-day IL.

If the 35-year-old right-hander had been placed on the 60-day IL, he could have not pitched in a major league game until May 24.

He had Tommy John surgery on March 11 last year with Los Angeles Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache and has made a pair of spring training starts, on March 18 and on Tuesday.

New York also made several moves after their exhibition finale to get down to the limit of 26 active players.

Left-hander Carlos Rodón, recovering from elbow surgery last October, was placed on the 15-day IL retroactive to March 22 and shortstop Anthony Volpe, rehabbing from left shoulder surgery last October, was put on the 10-day IL retroactive to March 22.

Right-hander Luis Gil was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 2024 AL Rookie of the Year isn’t needed in the major leagues early in the season as the Yankees start with a four-man rotation because of off days.

New York also selected the contract of outfielder Randal Grichuk from the RailRiders. He gets a one-year deal calling for $2.5 million while in the major leagues and $210,000 in the minors. He can earn $1.5 million in performance bonuses based on plate appearances: $250,000 for 200 and each additional 50 through 450.

Grichuk, 34, hit .125 (3 for 24) during spring training with one RBI. He batted .228 with nine home runs and 27 RBIs last year for Arizona and Kansas City.

Posted on

Shohei Ohtani & the history of MVP streaks

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 24: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers gives a speech after accepting the 2025 NL MVP Award during the 2026 BBWAA Awards Dinner at New York Hilton Midtown on Saturday, January 24, 2026 in New York, New York. (Photo by Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

While the Dodgers are striving to be the last team standing for the third season in a row, they aren’t alone in their quest to be the best for a long stretch of time.

Shohei Ohtani won National League MVP in each of his first two years with the Dodgers, the only player in franchise history to win that award in consecutive years. But he also won American League MVP in 2023 with the Angels, so he’s on a streak of three MVPs in a row, and four in the last five years.

Barry Bonds is the only other player in MLB history to win more than two MVP awards in a row. Bonds explored the limits of science in winning four consecutive NL MVPs with the San Francisco Giants from 2001-04, during which he hit an eye-popping .349/.559/.809 from ages 36-39.

Thirteen other players won two MVP awards in a row, and Bonds himself also won consecutive awards in 1992 with the Pittsburgh Pirates and in 1993 with the Giants. In all, there have been 17 MLB seasons in which a player was trying for a third straight MVP.

PlayerYearbWARfWARMVP finish
Jimmie Foxx19348.38.810th
Hal Newhouser19469.79.32nd
Yogi Berra19566.26.42nd
Mickey Mantle19588.78.85th
Ernie Banks19607.97.04th
Roger Maris19623.73.7no votes
Joe Morgan19775.85.8no votes
Mike Schmidt19827.47.26th
Dale Murphy19845.55.69th
Barry Bonds19946.26.04th
Frank Thomas19955.35.48th
Barry Bonds20039.210.21st
Barry Bonds200410.611.91st
Barry Bonds20050.60.7no votes
Albert Pujols20107.56.82nd
Miguel Cabrera20145.15.29th
Shohei Ohtani20257.89.41st

These are nearly all fantastic seasons. Bonds at age 40 in 2005 broke down and only played in 14 games. Fifteen of the other 16 seasons topped 5 WAR, using either Baseball Reference or FanGraphs, save for Roger Maris in 1962, who put up a solid 3.7 WAR the year after setting the home run record.

The average of all 17 seasons, even including Bonds’ injured year, is 6.8 bWAR and 7.0 fWAR.

Besides Ohtani and Bonds, three players got reasonably close to winning a third straight MVP, finishing second the year after winning two in a row.

Hal Newhouser is the only pitcher on this list, winning AL MVP in 1944 and 1945 with the Detroit Tigers during World War II. Then he put up a 1.94 ERA with 26 wins, both league-leading, and 275 strikeouts in 292 2/3 innings in 1946. His Tigers finished second for the pennant to the Boston Red Sox, and Ted Williams won MVP by hitting .342/.497/.667 with 38 home runs.

The 1946 voting was relatively close, with Williams collecting 224 points to 197 for Newhouser. Williams got nine first-place votes compared to three for Newhouser. The other two second-place finishes were of the distant variety.

Yogi Berra won three AL MVPs in five years with the New York Yankees, including in both 1954 and 1955. Then it was Mickey Mantle’s turn. Mantle won MVP unanimously in 1956 by winning the triple crown, with Berra coming in second place in voting. Mantle also won MVP in 1957 but finished fifth in 1958 despite 8.7 bWAR and 8.8 fWAR.

Albert Pujols won NL MVP in 2008 and 2009, and in 2010 the St. Louis Cardinals first baseman turned in another monster season by hitting .312/.414/.596 with 42 home runs. He did get one first-place vote that year, but Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto got the other 31 to win the award.

Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge won the last two AL MVPs, and has a chance to join the group of three-consecutive-MVP winners in 2026. Ohtani this year will try to join Bonds as the only players to win four MVPs in a row, perhaps buoyed by his return to full-time two-way status.

Posted on

Best NBA Player Props Today for March 25: Board Man Hits Threes

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

It’s a jam-packed night of NBA action with a whopping 12 games on the schedule to wager on. That means a virtually unlimited number of options in the player prop markets.

That said, my best bets go back to a couple of old favorites, including fading the Heat on the glass and Victor Wembanyama continuing his personal block party.

Those and more NBA picks for Wednesday, March 25 below.

Best NBA player props today

PlayerPickbet365
Cavaliers Evan MobleyOver 9.5 rebounds+100
Spurs Victor WembanyamaOver 3.5 blocks+100
Clippers Kawhi LeonardOver 2.5 threes+100
MORE NBA FREE PICKS

Prop #1: Evan Mobley Over 9.5 rebounds

+100 at bet365

Fading the Miami Heat with opposing player rebounds is one of my favorite things going in NBA betting these days.

The Heat aren’t a terrible rebounding team, but their high tempo makes them ripe to pick on. Miami leads the NBA in pace and field goal attempts per game. That inherently means a lot of rebounds, and in fact, they allow the second-most opponent rebounds per game.

So, let’s keep things simple for tonight’s matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

With Jarrett Allen banged up, Evan Mobley is Cleveland’s best rebounder. He is averaging 8.9 rebounds per game this season, and that is up to 11.0 over his last seven games, and he has hauled down 11 or more four times over that stretch.

  • Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: FDSN-South, FDSN-Ohio

Prop #2: Victor Wembanyama Over 3.5 blocks

+100 at bet365

My other favorite bet going these days is Victor Wembanyama blocks. The Alien has been on a mission since coming out of the All-Star break, protecting the rim as we’ve rarely seen. 

The San Antonio Spurs’ star is averaging 3.9 blocks over the 17 games he’s played since the break, rejecting four or more shots 13 times during that period, and I’m expecting the block party to continue when they visit the Memphis Grizzlies.

The banged-up Grizz will be clearly overmatched in this game as 16.5-point home dogs, and this inexperienced group already ranks 19th in opponent blocks per game.

So, as long as sportsbooks keep giving me even money or better on Over Wemby blocks, I’m going to keep betting it.

  • Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: FDSN-Southwest, FDSN-Memphis

Prop #3: Kawhi Leonard Over 2.5 threes

+100 at bet365

Kawhi Leonard has been spending the month of March reminding us that when he’s healthy, he’s one of the best basketball players in the world.

The Los Angeles Clippers’ star is averaging 30.0 points over his last 11 games, and he’s been on fire from beyond the arc. Kawhi is shooting a very good 42.5% on 6.6 3-point attempts per game over that 11-game stretch.

I’m betting he stays hot against his former team, the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors are wrapping up a West Coast road trip, and you can tell the season has been wearing on them.

Their perimeter defense has taken a step back recently, ranking 27th in opponent 3-point percentage since the All-Star break.

Kawhi has hit three or more threes in three straight games. He does it again tonight.

  • Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: TSN, FDSN-SoCal

These props are available now at bet365, one of our best betting sites.

Cash your ML bets quicker with bet365's early win payout!

Take advantage of the early win payout at bet365, where any pre-game NBA moneyline bet gets paid out as a winner if your team goes up by 20+ points!

Learn more about this feature, and all of bet365's offerings, with our comprehensive bet365 review!

Sign Up Now atimg src="https://img.covers.com/betting/sportsbooks/2/bet365.svg" alt="bet365" width="100" height="28" style="vertical-align: middle;"

21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Posted on

Warriors keeping Ömer Yurtseven with second 10-day deal

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MARCH 21: Omer Yurtseven #77 of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket against Mouhamed Gueye #18 of the Atlanta Hawks during the the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena on March 21, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Paras Griffin/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Golden State Warriors may have lost Moses Moody and Jimmy Butler, but Big Yurt isn’t going anywhere.

27-year-old Ömer Yurtseven is signing a second 10-day contract with the Warriors, who are without centers Al Horford (calf) and Quinten Post (foot) at present. Yurtseven has appeared in five games for the Warriors, averaging 3.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.8 assists. He’s made five baskets, dunked once, and gone 6-for-10 from the foul line.

The Warriors do need the front court depth and Yurtseven is extremely 6-foot-11, perhaps his most valuable NBA skill. He’s a solid rebounder but a limited defender in the post and doesn’t have an outside shot. Still, he has three games of 20+ points, which is three more than a lot of players.

Yurtseven played two seasons with the Miami Heat and one for the Utah Jazz before spending most of the last two seasons with Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos, before injuries and a roster crunch led to his release. He ended up on the Rio Grande Vipers, the Houston Rockets’ G League team, where he averaged 23 points and 13.3 rebounds in three dominant games.

Dealing with a busted bracket?

The Sweet 16 is almost here – who’s still alive? We’re reviewing the week that was in the first week of the NCAA tournament and turning our focus to remaining teams. How bad (or good!) is your bracket? Join us in the SB Nation March Madness Feed and let’s talk about who’s most likely to make a run to glory.

Incidentally, Panathinaikos has a roster perfect for Remembering Some Guys. Yurtseven shared the frontcourt with Morehead State/Denver Nuggets legend Kenneth Faried, “Hustle” star and Adam Sandler bestie Juancho “Bo Cruz”Hernangomez, along with longtime Cleveland Cavalier Cedi Osman. The Greek team also employs Jerian Grant, son of Harvey Grant and brother of the Portland Trail Blazers forward and legendary bag-getter Jerami Grant, as well as Kendrick Nunn, an alumnus of the Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Santa Cruz Warriors.

Yurtseven is clearly an NBA player, albeit probably a third center on most teams. But because of his Turkish citizenship, he’s probably more valuable to a European team, considering most leagues have caps on how many non-European players they can roster. That’s a big reason Warriors legend Anthony Randolph became a citizen of Slovenia, where he achieved his championship destiny as part of the 2017 EuroCup gold medalists.

How did the Warriors ever let this incredible player, champion, and Summer League legend go?

Will Yurtseven get a real NBA deal when this 10-day is up? Considering that the Warriors are slumping but still locked into the last play-in spot, the team may choose to save money by keeping the roster as lean as possible. Still, they may need Yurtseven if the centers remain banged up, and it may be a choice between the Turkish center or promoting two-way guard LJ Cryer at the end of the season.

Welcome back, Ömer! Please help Golden State beat the Brooklyn Nets. They’re not even trying to win!

Posted on

Reds' Nick Lodolo will start season on injured list due to blister on his finger

MILWAUKEE — Cincinnati Reds left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo will open the season on the injured list as he recovers from a blister on his left index finger.

Lodolo, 28, had thrown just 10 pitches in his last Cactus League start before the blister caused his exit. He also dealt with blister issues on that finger each of the last two seasons.

“I think there’s a little bit of concern right now with the breaking ball, that he would go rip one off,” Cincinnati manager Terry Francona said after the Reds’ exhibition game with the Milwaukee Brewers. “And if we tried to reach for something that we shouldn’t and he throws an inning or two, and then we turn it into a month. … We don’t want him to miss any time, but if he misses a couple of starts, that’s a heck of a lot better than a month. So that’s what we’re going to do.”

Lodolo acknowledged disappointment about starting on the injured list, but noted that “it’s something that could work in our favor in the long run,” given the likelihood it assures he won’t risk missing extended time.

“Hopefully next week, somewhere in there, be able to throw a sim game or throw like a rehab start and continue to build up and be able to just test it without it being in a game,” Lodolo said.

Lodolo went 9-8 with a 3.33 ERA in 29 appearances last year while striking out 156 batters in 156 2/3 innings.

His injury means the Reds will open the season without two members of their preferred starting rotation as they attempt to build on their 83-79 finish from last year that resulted in their first playoff berth since 2020.

Hunter Greene, a 2024 All-Star, underwent elbow surgery and could miss up to the first four months of the season. Greene went 7-4 with a 2.76 ERA and 132 strikeouts in 107 2/3 innings last season.

Andrew Abbott will start the Reds’ season opener against the Boston Red Sox. Brady Singer and Rhett Lowder are scheduled to start the final two games of the Red Sox series, with Chase Burns and Brandon Williamson starting the first two games of a series with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Posted on

Will Wade buyout at NC State: What coach would owe Wolfpack if he left for LSU

North Carolina on Tuesday, March 24 fired fifth-year head coach Hubert Davis after back-to-back exits in the first round of the Men's NCAA Tournament.

Could another North Carolina program from the ACC have an opening soon?

REQUIRED READING: At Sweet 16, the coaches supply the star power. We rank them 1-16

According to multiplereports, LSU is working on hiring McNeese athletic director Heath Schroyer for a senior administrator position in Baton Rouge that would oversee the Tigers' men's basketball program. The reported attempt to hire Schroyer is an important one for LSU's rumored plans of bringing back North Carolina State's Will Wade to lead the program.

This comes at a time that fourth-year coach Matt McMahon is still employed by LSU following his third losing record in his last four seasons at LSU. Since his hiring, LSU has never won more than 17 games in a season, never finished better than .500 in SEC play and has never made the Men's NCAA Tournament, advancing only as far as the first round of the 2024 Men's NIT.

Conversely, Wade just wrapped his first season at NC State, which saw the Wolfpack go 20-14 to finish tied for seventh in the ACC. Their season ended with a First Four loss to 11-seed Texas, which is still dancing in March Madness.

Wade, of course, formerly coached LSU from 2017-22, where despite on-court success he was fired for cause after the NCAA accused him of committing multiple Level I and Level II violations, including "lack of institutional control." Following a season in which he didn't coach, Wade took over at McNeese in 2023-24, going 50-9 and appearing in the NCAA Tournament twice in two seasons, helping him land the Wolfpack head coaching position.

Should Wade leave NC State to return to LSU, here is what he would owe the Wolfpack:

Will Wade buyout at NC State if Wolfpack coach leaves

According to Wade's contract, obtained by the USA TODAY Network, he would owe NC State $5 million if he were to leave the Wolfpack for another job, like LSU, before the end of his contract. That payout drops to $3 million on April 2.

Will Wade contract details at NC State

Wade signed a six-year, $17.25 million contract in March 2025, according to The Fayetteville Observer, part of the USA TODAY Network.

There is a total of $14,756,250 million left across the remaining five years of Wade's contract with NC State, according to his contract that was obtained by the USA TODAY Network. Here is his year-by-year base salary, beginning in 2027:

  • $2.65 million
  • $2.8 million
  • $2.95 million
  • $3.1 million
  • $3.26 million

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Will Wade contract, buyout at NC State if former LSU coach leaves Wolfpack

Posted on

Guardians Announce Roster for Opening Day

GOODYEAR, AZ - FEBRUARY 22: Angel Martinez #79 of the Cleveland Guardians poses for a photo during the Cleveland Guardians Photo Day at Goodyear Ballpark on Thursday, February 22, 2024 in Goodyear, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Cleveland Guardians have chosen their twenty-six players for Opening Day in Seattle.

Catchers: Bo Naylor, Austin Hedges, David Fry

Infielders: Kyle Manzardo, Rhys Hoskins, Brayan Rocchio, Gabriel Arias, Jose Ramirez and Daniel Schneemann.

Outfielders: CJ Kayfus, Steven Kwan, Chase DeLauter and Angel Martinez.

Starting Pitchers: Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, Slade Cecconi, Joey Cantillo, and Parker Messick.

Bullpen: Peyton Pallette, Colin Holderman, Connor Brogdon, Tim Herrin, Matt Festa, Erik Sabrowski, Shawn Armstrong, and Cade Smith.

Hunter Gaddis, Andrew Walters and George Valera all open the year on the 15-day IL.

Johnathan Rodríguez was designated for assignment today. Condolences to CTC site user Ray Fosse. I hope someday that we will be able to say the biggest mistake Stephen Vogt ever made was starting Johnathan Rodriguez in right field against Tarik Skubal in a playoff game. It’ll be a nice piece of trivia and trauma.

What do you think about the roster choices? Let us know in the comments below

Posted on

Hawks vs Pistons Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

The Detroit Pistons are sending a clear message to anyone who thought they’d fall apart without Cade Cunningham, and they’ve got the Atlanta Hawks in their sights tonight at Little Caesars Arena.

While Atlanta is 9-1 in its last 10 games, the schedule has been favorable. My Hawks vs. Pistons predictions side with a Detroit team that’s won three in a row since Cade was ruled out.

Check out my NBA picks for a March 25 matchup that could yet be a first-round playoff preview.

Hawks vs Pistons prediction

Hawks vs Pistons best bet: Pistons -2.5 (-115)

The Detroit Pistons doubters have been loud at times this season, even before Cade Cunningham’s injury, but the Pistons just keep on winning.

After Monday’s impressive victory over the red-hot Lakers, they’re now 27-8 SU at home, and I’m picking Jalen Duren & Co. to cover this small spread tonight.

Detroit has won six of the past seven meetings with the Atlanta Hawks, including a 142-115 beatdown in December, and the hosts can match the Hawks’ recent surge.

Like Atlanta, the Pistons have made hay against weaker opposition, winning seven of their last eight games — six by a double-digit margin.

Of course, Cade’s absence hurts, but Daniss Jenkins continues to show he can handle big minutes, and his 30-point, eight-assist explosion was the catalyst for stunning the Lakers.

The Hawks’ loss in Houston last week may be an indicator of what happens when they face a physical defense, and the Pistons have held opponents to 110 points or fewer in seven of their last 10 contests. The visitors lean heavily on three guards in their starting five, and that could be a recipe for Duren feasting on the glass.

Sure, Atlanta is scrapping to stay above the play-in line in an increasingly tight race, but no one loves a bruising battle more than Detroit. Plus, Jalen Johnson is listed as questionable with a shoulder issue, and the Pistons can turn to Ausar Thompson for any perimeter assignment.

It may not be pretty, but this one feels like a home win.

Hawks vs Pistons same-game parlay

I like the Pistons to grab a fifth straight win tonight, and the script has to start with a monster Duren outing.

He’s finished with 11 rebounds in four of his last five games, and he hauled in four offensive boards on Monday against L.A.

Duncan Robinson’s production — even without Cade to set him up — is an important ingredient, too. He’s made 10 3-pointers across his last three contests.

Hawks vs Pistons SGP

  • Pistons moneyline
  • Jalen Duren Over 10.5 rebounds
  • Duncan Robinson Over 2.5 3-pointers

Our "from downtown" SGP: Mr. MIP

Duren is the front-runner for the Most Improved Player award, and he’s embracing the chance to be Detroit’s lead dog. This SGP taps into his all-around production, and he’s shooting 67% from the field in March.

I'm also adding in the Over, which is 8-2 in the past 10 matchups between these teams.

Hawks vs Pistons SGP

  • Jalen Duren Over 22.5 points
  • Jalen Duren Over 10.5 rebounds
  • Over 228.5
  • Pistons moneyline

Hawks vs Pistons odds

  • Spread: Hawks +2.5 | Pistons -2.5
  • Moneyline: Hawks +130 | Pistons -154
  • Over/Under: Over 228.5 | Under 228.5

Hawks vs Pistons betting trend to know

The Pistons are 34-11 SU against Eastern Conference opponents this season. Find more NBA betting trends for Hawks vs. Pistons.

How to watch Hawks vs Pistons

LocationLittle Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
DateWednesday, March 25, 2026
Tip-off7:00 p.m. ET
TVESPN

Hawks vs Pistons latest injuries

Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Posted on

The Mets’ Opening Day roster announced

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JULY 12: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets celebrates his two-run home run with Francisco Lindor #12 of the New York Mets in the fourth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on July 12, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Mets announced their 26-man roster for Opening Day earlier today. The Mets are carrying 13 pitchers and 13 position players, and there are no real surprises on the list, though the make-up of the bullpen has a somewhat unexpected choice or two.

Starting Pitchers:

Clay Holmes (RHP)

Sean Manaea (LHP)

Nolan McLean (RHP)

Freddy Peralta (RHP)

David Petesron (LHP)

Kodai Senga (RHP)

Relief Pitchers:

Huascar Brazobán (RHP)

Luis Garcia (RHP)

Richard Lovelady (LHP)

Tobias Myers (RHP)

Brooks Raley (LHP)

Luke Weaver (RHP)

Devin Williams (RHP)

Catchers:

Francisco Alvarez (R)

Luis Torrens (R)

Infielders:

Brett Baty (L)

Bo Bichette (R)

Francisco Lindor (S)

Jorge Polanco (S)

Marcus Semien (R)

Mark Vientos (R)

Jared Young (L)

Outfielders:

Carson Benge (L)

Luis Robert Jr. (R)

Juan Soto (L)

Tyrone Taylor (R)

The Mets also officially updated their current major league injured list.

Reed Garrett (60-Day, right elbow sprain)

Justin Hagenman (60-Day, rib fracture)

Tylor Megill (60-Day, right elbow sprain)

A.J. Minter (15-Day, left lat surgery)

Dedniel Núñez (60-Day, right elbow sprain)

And with the roster set, that means that infielder Vidal Bruján, left-handed relief pitcher Bryan Hudson and catcher Ben Rortvedt were all designated for assignment.

Freddy Peralta will start the first game of the season tomorrow against the Pirates at Citi Field at 1:15pm. LGM.

Posted on

Ja Morant officially out for remainder of season as treatment continues on elbow injury

Nobody expected Ja Morant to return to the court this season, but now it is official.

Morant is out with a sprained ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his left elbow and will now receive a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection to help speed the healing process, the team announced. That will sideline him for the rest of the season.

Morant will have played in 20 games this season.

The Grizzlies explored the trade market for Morant at the deadline but didn't find a deal to their liking. He is expected to be back on the trade market and likely to be moved this offseason.

Also in that release, the team says centers Zach Edey and Brandon Clarke will be out for the remainder of the season as well. Edey hasn't played since December following ankle surgery (which was expected to keep him out the rest of the season), but now he has undergone a procedure to alleviate lingering discomfort in his left elbow. Clarke has only played in two games this season, missing the start of it recovering from knee surgery, then returning for two games before straining his calf. That calf injury continues to keep him out.

Memphis, 24-27, is headed to the lottery and currently has the seventh-worst record in the league. That would give them a 31.9% chance of landing a top-four pick in the draft and guarantees them a top-10 spot.

Posted on

Who's in 2026 NHL playoffs? Latest standings, bracket, tiebreakers

Three NHL teams moved up in the playoff races during a busy 15-game schedule on Tuesday, March 24.

The surging Buffalo Sabres can do the same during Wednesday night's two-game schedule.

Buffalo has a chance to move into the top seed in the Eastern Conference when it hosts the Boston Bruins, passing the idle Carolina Hurricanes if it wins.

The Sabres have gone 33-6-5 since Dec. 9. They replaced general manager Kevyn Adams with Jarmo Kekalainen two games into that run as they try to end a record 14-game playoff drought.

The Sabres lead the Tampa Bay Lightning by two points in the Atlantic Division race and will have played two more games by the end of the night.

Tuesday night, the Ottawa Senators moved into the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, and the Edmonton Oilers (Pacific) and Columbus Blue Jackets (Metropolitan) moved into second place in their respective divisions. They would have home-ice advantage in the first round if they finish the season that way.

Here's what to know about the NHL standings, tiebreaker procedures and playoff field for the 2025-26 season:

Who's in the 2026 NHL playoffs?

Eastern Conference: None

Western Conference: Colorado, Dallas

Who can clinch today?

No team can clinch today. But the New York Rangers will be eliminated from playoff contention if they lose to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

NHL games today (Wednesday, March 25)

  • Boston at Buffalo, 7:30
  • N.Y. Rangers at Toronto, 7:30

NHL Eastern Conference standings 2025-26

As of March 24. x-clinched playoff spot. z-eliminated

Metropolitan Division

  • Carolina Hurricanes (96)
  • Columbus Blue Jackets (87)
  • Pittsburgh Penguins (86)

Atlantic Division

  • Buffalo Sabres (95)
  • Tampa Bay Lightning (93)
  • Montreal Canadiens (88)

Wild card

  • Boston Bruins (86)
  • Ottawa Senators (85)

Sitting out of playoff position: New York Islanders (85), Detroit Red Wings (84), Philadelphia Flyers (80), Washington Capitals (79), New Jersey Devils (74), Florida Panthers (73), Toronto Maple Leafs (73), New York Rangers (65)

NHL Western Conference standings 2025-26

As of March 24. x-clinched playoff spot. z-eliminated

Central Division

  • x-Colorado Avalanche (104)
  • x-Dallas Stars (97)
  • Minnesota Wild (92)

Pacific Division

  • Anaheim Ducks (84)
  • Edmonton Oilers (79)
  • Vegas Golden Knights (78)

Wild card

  • Utah Mammoth (80)
  • Nashville Predators (77)

Sitting out of playoff position: Los Angeles Kings (74), Seattle Kraken (72), Winnipeg Jets (72), San Jose Sharks (70), St. Louis Blues (69), Calgary Flames (67), Chicago Blackhawks (67), z-Vancouver Canucks (50)

NHL Eastern Conference playoff bracket

Here is how the Eastern Conference playoff bracket would look if the season ended on March 24.

  • Carolina (M1) vs. Ottawa (WC2)
  • Columbus (M2) vs. Pittsburgh (M3)
  • Buffalo (A1) vs. Boston (WC1)
  • Tampa Bay (A2) vs. Montreal (A3)

The winner of the first series would play the winner of the second in the second round. The winner of the third series would play the winner of the fourth. Key: M - Metropolitan Division. A - Atlantic Division. WC - wild card

NHL Western Conference playoff bracket

Here is how the Western Conference playoff bracket would look if the season ended on March 24.

  • Colorado (C1) vs. Nashville (WC2)
  • Dallas (C2) vs. Minnesota (C3)
  • Anaheim (P1) vs. Utah (WC1)
  • Edmonton (P2) vs. Vegas (P3)

The winner of the first series would play the winner of the second in the second round. The winner of the third series would play the winner of the fourth. Key: C - Central Division P - Pacific Division. WC - wild card

NHL tiebreakers: What is the first tiebreaker in NHL standings?

If two teams are tied in points at the end of the regular season, here are the tiebreakers:

  1. Regulation wins
  2. Regulation and overtime wins (ROW)
  3. Total wins
  4. Most points earned in head-to-head competition: If teams had an uneven number of meetings, the first game played in the city that has the extra game is excluded.
  5. Goal differential
  6. Total goals

When does the NHL regular season end?

The NHL regular season is scheduled to end on Thursday, April 16, with six games.

When do the NHL playoffs start?

The NHL's Stanley Cup playoffs are expected to begin on Saturday, April 18.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NHL playoff standings, latest 2026 bracket, tiebreaker scenarios

Posted on

Adam Sýkora Hopes To Provide Rangers With Energy In His NHL Debut

Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

Adam Sýkora is set to make his NHL debut for the New York Rangers on Wednesday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

The Rangers recalled Sýkora from the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League on Tuesday. 

During Wednesday’s practice, the 21-year-old forward slotted onto a line with Vincent Trocheck and Will Cuylle, indicating he’ll be given a middle-six role in his NHL debut. 

“Super without words,” Sýkora said about his excitement level for his NHL debut via Mollie Walker of The New York Post. “It was super exciting for me playing with those guys. I just want to bring them some energy, some juice and be good on the forecheck.”

Sýkora was selected by the Rangers in the second round of the 2022 NHL Draft, and he’s spent the past three seasons playing in the AHL.

He has recorded 12 goals, 17 assists, and 29 points in 62 games with the Wolf Pack this season. 

Throughout his time in Hartford, Sýkora has become quite the fan favorite and a player beloved by his teammates due to his relentless energy that he plays with and exuberant personality. 

“My happiness through for him is through the roof,” Jaroslav Chmelař said of Sýkora. “I mean, he's the best person I've met. He's such a nice guy...We were kind of dreaming about it at the beginning of the year that we would love to play together one time. So hopefully that comes through.”

Having been with the Rangers’ organization since 2022, Sýkora has spent a long time waiting for this moment, and he'll look to provide a spark for a team and fan base in desperate need of something to be excited about.

This is Sýkora’s chance to etch his mark with the Rangers and build momentum going into the 2026-27 season.

“I know I’m a different player from those the New York Rangers have drafted,” Sýkora said in September. “So, that’s kind of my path — forecheck, backcheck, all the skating, hard work, that’s kind of my job that gets me here. And I want to put it all together to get to the next level. Defensive things, penalty kill, blocking shots and a team player, helping and supporting each other. Be alive on the bench and support the other guys here.”

Posted on

"A Really Good Guy": Anton Frondell Enjoys Being Connor Bedard's Teammate

The Chicago Blackhawks have a lot of stock put in their young players. Drafting and developing have been the biggest keys to their rebuild. 

Connor Bedard was the prize of the entire process, as the Blackhawks earned the right to draft him by winning the 2023 NHL Draft Lottery. Since then, he has become an NHL superstar. 

Other young players have come in since then, but few have had the excitement that Anton Frondell produced with his NHL debut on Wednesday. The third overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft has an incredible set of skills that will allow him to have a long career. 

A strong season in the SHL and an elite showing en route to a Gold Medal at the 2025-26 World Junior Championships made Jeff Blashill comfortable throwing him into the fire right when he arrived in the NHL. 

Frondell played his first NHL game on the first line and the top power play unit. Of course, that meant playing with Connor Bedard. Getting on a line with the team's top superstar is never an easy task, but Frondell was up to the challenge. 

It was an impressive debut for Frondell, who collected his first NHL point with an assist on an Ilya Mikheyev goal. He had to use Connor Bedard as a decoy to spring Mikheyev, which required tremendous confidence as he's looking off one of the best players in the world. 

On the ice, these two have the skills to feed each other. Bedard and Frondell each have an elite shot, but they use it in different ways. Each of them is also a tremendous playmaker, so defending against them will be difficult as they develop further. 

Although Bedard is just 20 years old, he knows he already has a leadership role in the organization and takes it seriously. It isn't just about having an "A" on your sweater and playing the game at a high level. It is about making everyone around you comfortable. 

Frondell's comments after the game made it clear that Bedard is doing the right things to help out those coming into the lineup. 

“Connor sits beside me here," Frondell said. "A really good guy, giving me good tips and everything.”

Jeff Blashill started their line to open the game, and Bedard let Frondell begin his NHL career by taking the opening faceoff. The signs of two stars developing a friendship right away are there.

That relationship will enhance their ability to play together on the hockey side. Enjoying your teammates is important to winning hockey in the NHL, and these two young stars are winners who are beginning to enjoy each other. 

Image

Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay updated on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.

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.

Posted on

Arizona Diamondbacks announce 2026 Opening Day roster

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 27: A general view of Chase Field with Opening Day signage as members of the Arizona Diamondbacks stand for the the national anthem prior to the game between the Chicago Cubs and the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday, March 27, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Arizona Diamondbacks announced their 2026 Opening Day roster with a series of roster moves. The 40-man roster is at 40.

RIGHT-HANDED PITCHERS (12)

  • 19 Ryne Nelson
  • 22 Joe Ross
  • 23 Zac Gallen
  • 32 Brandon Pfaadt
  • 34 Michael Soroka
  • 37 Kevin Ginkel
  • 38 Paul Sewald
  • 43 Jonathan Loaisiga
  • 45 Taylor Clarke
  • 56 Andrew Hoffmann
  • 62 Juan Morillo
  • 81 Ryan Thompson

LEFT-HANDED PITCHERS (1)

  • 57 Eduardo Rodriguez

CATCHERS (2)

  • 8 James McCann
  • 14 Gabriel Moreno

POSITION PLAYERS (11)

  • 1 Jorge Barrosa
  • 2 Geraldo Perdomo
  • 4 Ketel Marte
  • 5 Alek Thomas
  • 6 Ildemaro Vargas
  • 7 Corbin Carroll
  • 10 Jordan Lawlar
  • 13 Tim Tawa
  • 26 Pavin Smith
  • 28 Nolan Arenado
  • 41 Carlos Santana

Selected to Major League roster:

  • RHP Jonathan Loaisiga (No. 43)
  • RHP Joe Ross (No. 22)
  • INF Ildemaro Vargas (No. 6)

Placed on 10-day injured list:

  • C Adrian Del Castillo (retro. March 22; strained left calf)
  • INF Tyler Locklear (retro. March 22; recovery from left elbow surgery)
  • OF Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (retro. March 22; recovery from right ACL surgery)

Placed on 15-day injured list:

  • RHP Merrill Kelly (retro. March 24; left intercostal nerve irritation)

Optioned to Triple-A Reno:

  • LHP Brandyn Garcia

Cleared spots on 40-man roster

Designated for assignment:

  • RHP Grant Holman

Placed on 60-day injured list:

  • RHP Cristian Mena (strained right shoulder)
  • LHP Blake Walston (left ulnar collateral ligament surgery)

No real surprises here. We were more or less aware of the 26-man roster a couple of days ago, between roster moves and statements by Torey Lovullo. The lack of left-handed relievers is interesting: we’ll see how that works out, especially against the Dodgers who have some top left-handed hitters. Three non-roster invitees have been added to the roster as expected. Spaces for two were cleared by moving Mena and Walston to the IL, and DFA’ing Holman. The last was picked up off waivers from the Athletics on February 15, so will become a ghost D-back, never appearing for the team.

Posted on

The clock is ticking for San Jose State to change its policy on a transgender athlete

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Trump administration gave San Jose State University 10 days to resolve what the U.S. Education Department has deemed are Title IX violations involving transgender athletes, saying the school will face legal action and the possible loss of federal funding if it fails to comply.

The department in January found that the university had discriminated against women by letting a transgender athlete play on the women’s volleyball team. The department issued its ultimatum in a Tuesday letter.

Kimberly Richey, assistant secretary for civil rights, said the administration had provided the university with multiple ways to resolve the violations, including separating “male” and “female” athletes based on the administration's definitions of those terms.

"Yet, SJSU remains obstinate, choosing a radical ideology over safety, dignity, and fairness for its own students,” she said. “With today’s action, the Department is putting the university on notice: comply with the law or risk losing its federal funding.”

Title IX is a 1972 gender equity law.

A spokesperson for the California State University system directed The Associated Press to a web page in which the system and university say they disagree with the department's legal position and findings.

In a letter to the department, the university said Title IX prohibits discriminating against transgender individuals.

The Education Department has taken action against a series of states, schools and colleges that allow transgender athletes to participate on sports teams, something President Donald Trump has promised to end.

The investigation into San Jose State was opened in February 2025 alongside a similar one at the University of Pennsylvania. Penn later agreed to a deal similar to the one being offered to San Jose State, modifying school records set by a transgender swimmer and apologizing to other athletes on the swim team.