WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 31: Russell Westbrook #4 of the Washington Wizards dribbles the ball during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers during Round 1, Game 4 of the 2021 NBA Playoffs on May 31, 2021 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Washington Wizards are moving beyond the “deconstruction” phase, and look poised to make moves toward a playoff run. And given the news about them not being willing to let Anthony Davis go in a trade? That tracks.
In addition, the Wizards are interested in acquiring former Washington star Russell Westbrook, according to Marc Stein. Westbrook is an unrestricted free agent. He last played for the Wizards in 2020-21, where he led Washington to their last playoff berth in 2021, averaging a triple double.
If Westbrook were to sign with the Wizards, he would likely be a backup to Trae Young. Still, Westbrook can score, rebound and assist like crazy. He averaged 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game last season.
Would you like to see Westbrook back with the Wizards? Let us know in the comments below.
MIAMI, FL - MARCH 10: Kel'el Ware #7 of the Miami Heat greets Kevin Love #42 before the game against the Charlotte Hornets on March 10, 2025 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Yesterday, you were asked a simple question, youth or experience? It’s an age-old debate, one that cuts to the core of your roster-building philosophy. But the answer is simple: it’s both.
Having hit the reset button by trading the best player in franchise history, the Milwaukee Bucks are no longer the veteran-heavy team that they once were. In addition to losing Giannis, the Bucks no longer have Bobby Portis, and the days of those two, Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, and Jrue Holiday suddenly feel like eons ago. Yet, even amidst that version of the team, the Bucks brought in vet after vet—George Hill, Wes Matthews, Joe Ingles, and a million other pros, who helped set the tone and knew how to win. And while it’s somewhat refreshing to start a new chapter in Bucks’ history with an infusion of youth and potential, Taylor Jenkins and his staff can’t raise them alone. For that, Milwaukee needs vets too. The right ones.
While they didn’t capture ultimate glory, the Bucks should take a leaf out of the San Antonio Spurs’ book. Yes, it was their youth—Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper—who drove their success, but they were supported by carefully selected veteran leaders. In fact, Marc J. Spears recently penned a piece on Bismack Biyombo, dubbing him the “perfect mentor” for Wembanyama.
But it doesn’t stop there. 14-year pro Harrison Barnes—once himself the prized young stud on a championship-winning team—was also a guiding force, as were Kelly Olynyk, acquired in a trade that sent a pair of 22-year-olds and a second-round pick to the Washington Wizards last July, and Mason Plumlee, who the Spurs signed in February after waiving Jeremy Sochan. Barnes notwithstanding, these sorts of players typically don’t play much—if at all—but they are pivotal in the development of young players; there’s a distinct difference between coaching and mentoring. Young players need both.
As things stands, which may very well be different by the time you read this, the Bucks have just four players 30 years of age or older: Myles Turner (30), Kyle Kuzma (31), Taurean Prince (32)—who somewhat surprisingly opted into his player option after the Giannis trade—and Gary Harris—who picked his up before it. Of course, there’s no guarantee that any of these guys are around for the entirety of this season and at least a couple of them don’t fit the culture-setting archetype a rebuilding team needs (I’ll let you be the judge on who).
All that said, here are some veteran targets the Bucks should look at in free agency:
Bigs
Kevon Looney
With the New Orleans Pelicans expected to decline their team option on him, Looney could return to his birth city and provide invaluable leadership and championship habits. He certainly has the adoration of his former coach, Steve Kerr, who raved about Looney’s leadership back in 2022:
Loon is incredible. This guy has so much wisdom. He’s so quiet that if you don’t pay attention, you may not realize that he has become the moral compass of our team. He’s a special human being. Special. And he was a key instrument in everything that we’ve had going the last week to try to get things back on track. I’ll ride with Loon forever. This is a special man.
Kevin Love
A former All-Star and All NBA player, Love has embraced a role as a veteran leader, most recently with the Utah Jazz. Prior to this, he served as a mentor to none other than Milwaukee’s newest big, Kel’el Ware, for which he received high praise from coach Erik Spoelstra:
A lot of vets don’t really want to accept that kind of role and that kind of transition and he has been able to do that gracefully. Those kind of guys are really necessary in this league. I wish there were more vets that would embrace that because with a younger league I think you do need that kind of mentorship, guys that can still do it, that can still play but then have that emotional stability to also pave room for a guy like Ware and Jovic.
Andre Drummond
The NBA’s preeminent rebounder for the best part of his career—and, yes, he’s still that good on the boards—Drummond’s physicality and “impeccable vibes” would be a welcome addition to the Bucks’ frontcourt.
Forwards
Jeff Green
“Uncle Jeff” has been in the league so long he once played for the Seattle Supersonics. He’s spent the last three seasons with the Houston Rockets and is a committed veteran presence, telling Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson that “it’s my duty and my job now to pass those teachings along to the young guys.”
Nicholas Batum
With the Los Angeles Clippers declining their team option on Batum, he’s now an unrestricted free agent and would be a near-ideal mentor for fellow Frenchman and recently resigned Ousmane Dieng, who has long drawn comparisons to him.
Khris Middleton
Look, it won’t happen, but what a fitting way this would be to send Khash off into the sunset. Once a young wing with upside, Khris could come full-circle to guide Nate Ament and the Bucks into their next era of success. A bloke can dream, right?
Guards
Mike Conley
Conley would be the ultimate veteran at guard, a high-character leader who can still play important minutes—just look at how he contributed in the playoffs. Unfortunately, he’s far more likely to stay in Minnesota or go to a contender.
Jevon Carter
At just 30 years old, Carter is a young vet, but has experience in Milwaukee and plays the tough, gritty defence that Jenkins will want from all of his players. Carter’s efforts weren’t lost on Orlando Magic teammate Desmond Bane, who spoke highly about his winning habits:
He’s a hard worker and cares about winning. When you work hard, and the only thing on your mind is winning, it’s hard not to respect people like that. I think he has come in and given us exactly what we needed.
Garrett Temple
Despite only once averaging over more than 8.4 PPG, Temple has played 16 years in the NBA. That doesn’t happen by accident. In fact, seven years ago, Temple was being praised for his leadership, earning him the nickname “President” with the Brooklyn Nets. It’s a role he embraces too:
I’ve honestly kind of been that on every team I’ve been on since Sacramento. I take pride in that. The coaches let me know they want me to have that role, which is something I don’t take for granted. I want to make sure I go out there night-in and night-out and in practice and play the right way, try to be a pro. That’s the biggest thing is show these young guys how to be pros. Talent plus professionalism makes for great careers, makes for long careers.
Doesn’t he know it?
What do you think, Brew Hoopers, should the Bucks pursue one of these veteran leaders, or are their current veterans fit for the job? Check out the NBA’s Free Agent Tracker for other potential fits and share your thoughts in the comments.
EDMONTON, CANADA OCTOBER 25: Darnell Nurse #25 of the Edmonton Oilers is pursued by Rickard Rakell #67 of the Pittsburgh Penguins during the game at Rogers Place on October 25, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Leila Devlin/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The NHL’s free agency market opens up at 12 noon. The Penguins, by signals from Kyle Dubas, aren’t in a hurry to make a big splash in the free agent market.
“We’ll stay after it, for sure,” Dubas said. “But it might not be the one gigantic-type transaction. We’ll try to stay active on those, but it might be more of a brick-by-boring-brick style.”
That applies to July 1, as Dubas doesn’t want to make the mistake of being too aggressive.
“I try to learn from the past, and we’ll try to steer clear of that,” Dubas said. “Rather than just doing something for the sake of doing it, I’d rather come here and say, ‘Yeah, we aspire to do it and the options weren’t there.’ So, we’ve had to check down and continue to build it up the way that we have.”
That’s probably for the best when taking into account that this year’s class of free agents isn’t the best, and plenty of teams have a lot of salary cap space with the recent increases. That adds up to a bad combination.
Sought out some opinions on what NHL free agency will look like tomorrow.
One prediction: "Never in the history of the NHL will so much money be spent on such little talent." https://t.co/YuNH9urp3p
Jason Robertson: Wants Dallas to budge. Don’t see it now. My guess is they go to arbitration. Unless Yzerman decides he’s the best option for Larkin.
Not sure if some, including Dubas, have completely given up hope for finding a way to wrangle Jason Robertson into Pittsburgh, but it doesn’t look very likely. If he files for arbitration then offer sheets are off the table and he’ll be getting a one-year contract with the Stars. Dallas could always still trade him at some point in the next year but that has already proven difficult with the player’s reluctance to sign a long-term contract with a team like Seattle.
Darnell Nurse: Pittsburgh wanted Edmonton to take back a contract. The Oilers didn’t like whatever was presented to them. Philadelphia’s had a challenge putting all of the different pieces together in and out. Boston’s shown interest, but that’s also about what has to go out to make it work. I believe the Sharks are very interested, but Nurse remains east-focused as I write this.
This makes perfect sense, if the Pens and Oilers even want to have a conversation about sending Nurse and his $9.25 million cap hit for four years to Pittsburgh, Edmonton taking Ryan Graves ($4.5mx3) is an unavoidable starting point. Graves’ involvement in a Nurse trade just has to happen for the Penguins to even consider going forward with negotiations. The Oilers don’t have to accept that condition and can go look for a different trade fit as a result, which looks like is exactly what is playing out in real time. That makes for a natural conclusion to the trade rumors around Nurse and the Penguins; neither side has to jump through hoops that they don’t want to and an acceptable trade match for both teams on this deal might be out of grasp.
Alexander Nikishin: A lot of interest. Carolina will hold until they get what they want, which includes a player. Rangers are believed to have offered a first and another pick. But that didn’t do it. Heavy competition, with many asking: what does he want on his next deal? Can’t sign an offer sheet.
Nikishin fits the age range and position the Penguins need the most, but the price to acquire will be very high. Difficult to see Pittsburgh engaging and coming out on a top in a bidding war in this area.
Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Toronto, Utah, Vancouver. These teams were all around Noel Acciari, Erik Haula, Boone Jenner, Scott Laughton, Colton Sissons (Nashville reunion?), Kevin Stenlund
Noel Acciari’s potential suitors could be among this group. Seems like a lot of ex-Penguins end up migrating to Utah, worth watching to see if that happens again or he ends up somewhere else. Hopefully not Philadelphia..
Stuart Skinner: If Hellebuyck is traded, Winnipeg makes the most sense. Otherwise, I’d take a shot if I was the Mammoth. They need to lighten Karel Vejmelka’s load.
Utah traded for and signed Sebastian Cossa, so I’m not sure where Skinner would fit into the mix for them with Vejmelka also signed for next year. But this will be interesting to see if Skinner doesn’t end up signing today that perhaps could mean he’s waiting to see how the dust settles with other situations like Hellebuyck’s before he can find his next spot. Sergei Bobrovsky is out there as a big fish, and Florida is apparently booked up by acquiring Jacob Markstrom (and Akira Schmid), so there currently aren’t too many teams looking for a 1/1A goalie like Skinner at the moment until something else changes to create an opening.
Ryan Shea: Had a really good year. Heard Lightning really liked him. But they also have their eyes on Werenski and John Carlson, if he doesnt sign in Carolina. Good player.
Tampa has a lot of plates in the air with potentially Werenski and Carlson, Shea’s next spot will be one to track today too. Friedman also mentioned that San Jose is looking to add a defenseman today, that might not be a bad spot to pull up to as a team on the rise over the next 3-4 years for a player like Shea.
Offer sheets: Last year, the Hurricanes threatened the Oilers (who signed Evan Bouchard) and the Rangers (who acquiesced and traded them K’Andre Miller). I think they’re considering doing it again. I have a theory, but I’m too chicken to say it. I also believe Seattle is considering it, as they basically created an offer-sheet trade for Jason Robertson, if he’d taken their cash. I also believe Mavrik Bourque is another potential target. I don’t want to get everyone’s hopes up, but there’s lots of noise out there.
The Penguins, or another NHL team, could offer up to $4.775 million for Bourque and only have to surrender a 2027 second round draft pick if Dallas elects not to match, and that amount could put them in an uncomfortable spot should Robertson head for arbitration. Pittsburgh has two second rounders in 2027 (their own, plus the Rangers) and then three more second rounders coming up in 2028. The Pens certainly have the ammo on hand to force Dallas’ position, if they want to get into that lane. They might have to move quickly to see if Bourque would even sign with them if a team like Carolina is potentially lurking as a consideration.
—
Overall, for the Penguins, we’ll see if they dip into the bargain bin for any free agent signings or look to the trade market to reshape their team. Since many/most the Dubas moves (like yesterday’s trade of Parker Wotherspoon) usually come completely out of left field, there could yet be fireworks for the Pens if they decide to keep flipping NHL players around at the start of the free agency period. Whether that means a bigger names like Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust or smaller pieces like Tommy Novak and Justin Brazeau remains to be seen.
TORONTO, CANADA - JUNE 30: Francisco Alvarez #4 of the New York Mets celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo-home run in the fifth inning of their MLB game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on June 30, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Meet the Mets
The Mets beat the Blue Jays 3-0 behind a dominant pitching performance by Nolan McLean, who struck out seven batters in six scoreless innings.
The Mets signed Christopher Morel to a minor league contract after his release by the Marlins last Friday.
John Harper dealt a midseason grade to the Mets defense, and in a surprise to no one, he didn’t give them high marks.
Clay Holmes will throw a bullpen session in the coming days, which puts him ahead of schedule in his recovery process (and could provide him with more value on the trade market).
The Mets need to take special care with the mental fortitude of their young players in the midst of a lost season.
Steve Gelbs reviewed the Rogers Centre hot dog as part of his Let’s Be Frank series, and he gave it a number right down the middle.
Nolan McLean threw a curveball last night that seemed genuinely unreal by the numbers.
McLean’s start was one of his best all year, and he’s been looking better on the whole as of late.
Luis Robert Jr. began his rehab assignment in Syracuse last night, playing five innings in center field and going 1-for-2 with a walk.
Around the National League East
The benches cleared during the Nationals game against the Red Sox after Willson Contreras struck out and was told by Cade Cavalli to “sit down, boy!”
The Nationals ended up handily defeating the Red Sox 8-1. Cavalli went seven innings, allowing a single unearned run, giving up one hit, and striking out thirteen batters.
The Phillies dominated the Pirates 8-0. Cristopher Sánchez spun another gem, going seven scoreless innings while giving up three hits and two walks while striking out nine.
The Braves were bested by the Cardinals 5-3. Martín Pérez gave up four runs in five innings, allowing five hits and walking three batters.
The Marlins humiliated the Rockies 14-3. Griffin Conine and Xavier Edwards each collected four hits, as Conine drove in two runs and Edwards drove in one.
Around Major League Baseball
Harborfield native Sean Keys’ power propelled him to the majors, and he got the start at first for the Blue Jays last night.
The Dodgers’ plans ahead of the trade deadline aren’t focused on Tarik Skubal or major league talent generally, but improving their minor league depth.
The Red Sox have found themselves back in the playoff race, thanks in no small part to the general quality (or lack thereof) of teams in the American League.
MLB and the MLBPA have donated $1 million to Venezuelan earthquake relief efforts.
WAR has become a top statistic within baseball, to the chagrin of some fans, but there are some changes it must make to keep from harming certain players in pre-arbitration pools and awards voting.
MLB has lost its bid to trademark the phrase “play ball” as the phrase was deemed too commonplace.
The first competitor in this year’s Home Run Derby is the red-hot Junior Caminero.
Aaron Judge is a “couple weeks” away from re-imaging on his fractured rib, putting him closer to the latter end of the original four-to-six week timeline.
Shohei Ohtani’s next start has been pushed back to Friday against the Padres, in an attempt to give him more rest between starts.
Brandon Nimmo will likely avoid the injured list after suffering an AC joint sprain.
Cam Schlittler gave up six earned runs in the worst start of his young career.
Jacob deGrom looked like his vintage self in a Rangers win over the Guardians.
Apr 29, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) moves to the basket against Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during the first half in game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The Houston Rockets are wasting no time in 2026 NBA Free Agency. According to reports, they have signed away former Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart to a two-year, $13 million deal. Smart is already familiar with Rockets head coach Ime Udoka from their time together in Boston.
The 32-year-old Smart is coming off of a season in which he averaged 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3 assists for the Lakers, and he gave the Rockets absolute fits in their first round playoff series this past season. He was also the plus-minus leader for the Lakers on the year.
The 6’3″ guard won the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and has long been thought of as one of the league’s premier defenders on the perimeter.
However, he’s not likely to do much for Houston’s need for shooting, averaging just 38.9 percent from the floor and 32.4 percent from deep for his career.
Smart will give Houston another guard off of the bench and for Fred VanVleet insurance, though Smart is hardly the floor general that VanVleet is. It also brings into question how many minutes Reed Sheppard will receive this upcoming season, with VanVleet back and now Smart in the fold. Udoka’s disdain for playing Sheppard is obvious, even though the Rockets were unequivocally better with him on the floor.
Smart hasn’t averaged over 30 minutes a night since 2023, so he’s not going to be taking a ton of minutes, but anything Smart plays will likely be taking away from Reed. Although I am curious to see what the Rockets look like with Smart and Sheppard playing together.
Anyway, with the Bogdan Bogdanovich signing and now Smart, the Rockets have added shooting (Bogdanovich) and now defense (Smart) to their guard rotation.
Tell what you think of these signings in the comments.
Just days out from being picked 7th overall in the NHL Entry Draft, Chase Reid has made his way to Seattle and started work at the Kraken's 2026 Development Camp. The 6'2", 194 pound defenseman plans to attend the University of Michigan in the fall, but for now he is honing his skills in Seattle as the next step in his NHL journey.
Talking about the whirlwind of the past few days, Reid said "it's been a blast" to meet the other prospects, coaches, and tour the facility. He made special mention of the Mariners game, and his first pitch-a strike-which he practiced in the tunnel before taking the field. Reid was a catcher as a kid, and grew up as a fan of the Detroit Tigers. He joked that the Mariners have his loyalty now that "they got my jersey with my number and my last name...the Tigers have never done that."
June 30th: Chase Reid Talks Jake O'Brien video by Candace Kludt | The Hockey News
Reid joked that the biggest adjustment on the first day of camp has been breaking in his brand new gear, "Gloves are stiff, pants are stiff...stepping onto a NHL ice sheet for the first time...it's a feel-out day..." and added, "I've waited for this day my whole life, to wear this jersey and put on an NHL logo."
You can catch Chase Reid and the rest of the Kraken prospects in action at the Kraken Community Iceplex July 1st and 2nd during Development Camp.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 30: Manager Dave Roberts #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers salutes the fans has he walks off the field after the Dodgers defeated the Athletics 9-3 at Sutter Health Park on June 30, 2026 in Sacramento, California. The victory was Roberts's 1000th has a manager. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Tuesday marked the fourth straight victory for the Dodgers on what has been a tremendous road trip, and it was an even more impactful game for manager Dave Roberts.
Now into his 11th season as Dodgers manager, Tuesday’s 9-3 victory over the Athletics marked the 1,000th win of Roberts’ managerial career, becoming the fastest manager to achieve that milestone in the live ball era and becoming the fourth manager in team history to accomplish that feat.
When asked about what it means to achieve 1,000 managerial wins, Robert described it as “mind-blowing,” per Sonja Chen of MLB.com.
“I mean, 1,000 didn’t even seem on my radar,” Roberts said. “That’s a long time of consistent winning, let alone keeping a job for 11 years. That’s just kind of the life I chose. But yeah, to kind of put your head down and look back and go, ‘Oh my god, I’m here,’ it’s mind-blowing.”
Roberts later shared a speech in the clubhouse following Tuesday’s victory, where he expressed his gratitude for his players, both past and present, on helping him reach 1,000 wins.
“What makes a great coach or manager? Great players, and I’ve been blessed with great players.”
Justin Wrobleski started the game that would eventually become Roberts’ 1,000th win as Dodgers manager, as the left-hander struck out a career-high 11 hitters while becoming the first Dodger pitcher since Clayton Kershaw in 2023 to have 10 wins before the All-Star break.
Wrobleski felt honored to be the winning pitcher in Roberts’ milestone game, as he spoke with Kirsten Watson of SportsNet LA about the impact Roberts has had on his career.
“I want to do that for Doc. He’s done a lot for me in my career. Getting the chance to be the winning pitcher in his 1,000th win is super cool… Can’t thank him enough for everything he’s done for me in my career and my development. I really wanted to get this done for him.”
Tommy Edman has been a contact machine since being activated off the injured list, as the switch hitter is slashing a robust .395/.452/.579 over his first 11 games of the season. Edman was a driving force in Tuesday’s win over the A’s, going 4-5 while connecting for his first home run of the season and driving in four runs.
Before Edman spoke with Watson about his brilliant day at the plate, he also showed his gratitude towards Dave Roberts acknowledged the privilege it is to play for the Dodgers with him at the helm.
“It really is an honor to just be a part of this team. It’s such a crazy accomplishment– 1,000 wins is just unbelievable if you really think about it. Couldn’t happen to a better guy. I’ve just loved every minute playing for him since I’ve gotten here. He’s so personable and makes it really easy to play for. He keeps things loose, and there’s a reason for why he’s won 1,000 games.”
The 2026 NHL free agency period has officially arrived, and the expectation is that the Toronto Maple Leafs and GM John Chayka will be active in one way or another.
The Leafs may make some moves on the trade front, as there has been plenty of activity that way across the NHL lately, but in terms of signing UFAs, there are some possibilities in that sense, too.
It's clear the Maple Leafs want to get back into playoff contention and are looking to build a team that is competitive in the demanding Atlantic Division. With that in mind, here are some areas in which the Leafs can tinker with or improve in free agency, as well as the UFAs that fit the bill.
Right-Handed Forward
When looking at the Maple Leafs' current projected roster for next season, William Nylander is the only listed forward who is a right-handed shot. If Nylander ever misses a game for whatever reason, Toronto is one player away from sending out a lineup with 12 left-handed forwards.
Having a forward group that's predominantly one-handed isn't the end-all, be-all of a result, but it certainly makes the team more predictable for opposition defenses and goaltenders. That can lead to a dull or ineffective offense.
So, if the Leafs are going to look for some offensive depth in free agency, it may be in their best interest to find a UFA or two who shoot with their right hand. Here are a few players who meet that description.
Oliver Bjorkstrand is coming off a rather disappointing season with the Tampa Bay Lightning last year. In 80 appearances in the regular season, the right winger scored just 12 goals and 32 points.
However, there is a fair explanation as to why there's been a drop-off in point production for Bjorkstrand. Spending the past campaign on a team that carried players such as Nikita Kucherov, Brandon Hagel, Jake Guentzel and other great wingers, Bjorkstrand couldn't find a role in the team that would utilize his skills to the fullest. As a result, he averaged just 13:38 of ice time per game.
That's a serious contrast when considering how he was used in the best seasons of his 11-year NHL career. When reaching a career-high 59 points for the Seattle Kraken in 2023-24, he averaged 16:11 time on ice. Even in his final three years with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Bjorkstrand averaged over 17 minutes of ice time.
In a position to succeed, the 31-year-old Dane is quite the offensive producer. And on the Maple Leafs, there could be a spot for him on the right wing of whatever line Nylander doesn't occupy.
Bjorkstrand's previous contract was a five-year deal that paid him $5.4 million against the salary cap. He'll certainly seek a raise in terms of his average annual salary, but potentially not a hefty raise considering his numbers from the past season.
Jack Roslovic
While he's still capable of scoring 20 goals in a season, Jack Roslovic is a player who would fit in the middle-six of a competitive lineup, rather than the top-six presence that Bjorkstrand is.
With that, Roslovic would be a much cheaper option to inject into the Leafs' forward group, and also a younger player, as a 29-year-old. In this past year with the Edmonton Oilers, in which he signed a one-year contract in the 2025 off-season, he scored 22 goals and 36 points in 69 contests. That's about a 43-point pace in a full 82-game season, or in the case of the 2026-27 campaign and onward, about a 44-point pace.
Roslovic is more than capable of pitching in offensively, depending on what his role is, but with the Maple Leafs, he may fit best on the third line and potentially as a center. One perk about Roslovic's game is his versatility, as he is proficient as a center, which makes him a valuable roster player.
Considering Max Domi's health is a concern at the moment, Bo Groulx and Jacob Quillan are the in-house solutions to fill the role of the third-line center. Therefore, if Roslovic is added to the roster, that's an extra body that can fill in for the center position when needed.
Kevin Stenlund could be a UFA that flies under the radar as a valuable signing.
The 29-year-old is a center, but can certainly do a job on the right flank in a role at any rate. Stenlund isn't known for his flashy skills, nor does he put up a lot of points, recording four goals and 18 points in 80 games last year.
But to this point in his 368-game NHL career, he's made his living off his responsibility on the defensive side of the ice.
Stenlund is a premier penalty killer and thrives in the faceoff dot in all situations. In fact, among players to take a minimum of 1,000 faceoffs this past year, Stenlund finished in the top 20 with a 54.2 percent rate for the Utah Mammoth.
He also led all NHL forwards in total and average shorthanded ice time, logging a total of 234:15, while averaging 2:56 of ice time on the penalty kill per game.
With all he can bring to the defensive side of the game, he could be a great fit to be Toronto's third-line center. And with the loss of players such as Scott Laughton and Nicolas Roy at the 2026 trade deadline, the Leafs could use a player to fill that role again.
The Maple Leafs now have three goaltenders in contention for two NHL spots, with Anthony Stolarz guaranteed to take one if healthy. What happens to the remaining spot in Toronto's goaltending tandem remains to be seen.
It can certainly be filled by either one of 24-year-olds Dennis Hildeby and Artur Akhtyamov, who have both earned NHL roles one way or another. But if Chayka believes he needs a little more security in the pipes, he can search for someone to support Stolarz throughout the campaign.
Sergei Bobrovsky
If the Maple Leafs acquired Sergei Bobrovsky in free agency, he wouldn't be so much a supportive partner for Stolarz, but most likely taking the role of starting goaltender, as long as his performances can keep up early in the year.
Bobrovsky must be included in this list, just based on the number of reports that link him and the Maple Leafs together ahead of the beginning of the free agency period.
Cam Talbot is a veteran like Bobrovsky, but won't cost nearly as much and has performed slightly better in the past year, even if Talbot recorded a .883 save percentage and a 3.19 goals-against average with the Detroit Red Wings.
Nonetheless, Talbot, 38, can be a presence for the young Hildeby and Akhtyamov while contributing to the NHL roster. Not to mention, he will be a very cheap option between the pipes, with his previous $2.5-million cap hit as a reference point.
Despite an unimpressive performance in 2025-26, Talbot is just one year removed from a campaign in which he registered a .901 SP, as well as a .913 SP in 2023-24.
David Rittich
David Rittich is a slightly better option for the Leafs in goal in terms of his age, possible contract ask and the numbers he's put up lately.
The 33-year-old Czechia native has been a member of the Maple Leafs before. He was traded to Toronto during the 2020-21 season and featured in four regular-season games. A return could be on the cards for Chayka if he values Rittich's game and his low cost.
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Happy Wednesday, everyone, and a very happy Canada Day to any of my fellow Canucks out there! In today’s news breakdown, we’re still looking at the fallout from the big shakeup with the Angels ousting Perry Minasian and the Mets booting Carlos Mendoza.
We also take a look at what’s going on with Aaron Judge, and which AL players might now stand a chance to be the AL MVP because Judge has missed a good chunk of playing time.
Along with all that, we take a look at the unexpected boost baseball is getting with the influx of soccer fans all over Canada and the US, and how it’s creating a whole new fanbase for the sport.
Max Muncy was up to bat, and Max Muncy grounded one to Max Muncy, and the ball deflected off the bag in front of Max Muncy, and Max Muncy reached on a single pic.twitter.com/X81zUUtmLp
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 19: A detail view of the 2026 MLB All-Star Game logo during a game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Angels at Citizens Bank Park on July 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Good morning, baseball fans!
Phase two of voting for the 2026 All-Star Game has begun, and unfortunately the San Francisco Giants have zero players among the top vote getters this year. I’d say it’s a shame, but given the way the team has…well, done everything this season, it’s not that big of a surprise. But it is a bummer, because I really wanted to Luis Arraez to at least be in the mix.
However, that doesn’t mean there is no reason to still vote. Because the Los Angeles Dodgers currently have players in almost every category. So maybe go support their competition instead. You can vote here for the next couple of days. Phase two ends on July 2nd, but you can cast up to five votes per day.
What time do the Giants play today?
The Giants conclude this three-game road series against the Arizona Diamondbacks tonight at 6:40 p.m. PT.
DENVER, CO - JUNE 22: Center fielder Jake McCarthy (31) of the Colorado Rockies celebrates with teammates after hitting a walk-off bases-loaded triple in the ninth inning during a game between the Boston Red Sox and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on June 22, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
There was a time in Colorado Rockies’ history when it was normal to expect a miraculous late-game rally, particularly at Coors Field, because of the offense’s power. They could strike fear in the heart of an opposing pitcher because of the certainty that no lead was ever truly safe.
However, over the years of losing since 2021, there were instances of incredible comebacks, but they seemed few and far between as the offense’s inconsistencies and ineffectiveness ruled above all.
The ineffable phenomena of “LoDo Magic” appeared to have waned into nothingness, a mere casualty of the frailties of the offense. However, the 2026 Rockies appear to have tapped into something from the past and may have found a way to conjure the vibes of that late-game magic.
Don’t count me out
The Rockies have proven to be one of the best late-game hitting teams in baseball this season.
In the eighth inning or later entering Tuesday, the Rockies are first in team batting average (.295), third in on-base percentage (.358) and first in slugging percentage (.481). They have also scored the most runs (114) and have the most hits (189). Those two stats aren’t particularly close either, as the Milwaukee Brewers rank second with 106 runs scored, and the Toronto Blue Jays are second with 164 hits. While their efforts haven’t necessarily always resulted in wins, it’s clear that the Rockies’ offense never knows when to quit.
The split between the eighth and ninth innings is rather similar, but the team is much more successful in the former. The Rockies are slashing .298/.366/.485 with 63 runs scored in the eighth inning while slashing .288/.375/.500 with 44 runs scored in the ninth. They also have 15 home runs in the eighth and 11 in the ninth, both of which rank near the top in baseball.
What is even more impressive is that this Rockies team could end up being one of the best late-game hitting teams in franchise history. Since the installation of the humidor at Coors Field in 2002, the 2026 team’s AVG ranks first in franchise history, ahead of the .268 AVG of the 2004 Rockies. Halfway through the season, the Rockies are at 107 runs in the late-game regulation innings, which may only rank ahead of the shortened 2020 season at the moment, but the top mark since 2002 is 163 by the 2004 team. The current trajectory as the 2026 club has a chance to take the top spot in runs scored, among several other categories, when all is said and done.
We’ve focused most only the eighth and ninth innings, but it’s worth mentioning their performance in extra innings. The Rockies have played five games that went into extras, so it’s a rather small sample size. Still, they are batting .296/.424/.370. They are 8-for-27 with two doubles and seven runs scored. That places them in the bottom half of the league in most things, but they can at least hang their hat on a good stat line, even if the runs aren’t coming.
Home and away
“LoDo Magic” is often reserved for games at home. Coors Field lends itself to offensive rallies because of the elevation and the expanse of the outfield. The 2026 Rockies have taken full advantage of their home confines in the late innings to keep up pressure and even pull off a few miracles.
A slashline of .308/.361/.492 places them roughly in the top-five Rockies teams at home in the eighth and ninth innings. Their average is notable as the second-best at home, behind the 2010 team, which batted .314 at Coors. Surprisingly enough, the 2024 and 2025 teams rank fairly high in runs scored, home runs, and hits. As mentioned, there were hints of that “LoDo Magic” over the years, but nothing that seemed to matter much or was too little, too late.
As for their place among teams across the league, the Rockies are first in AVG and SLG at home, while they rank second in runs scored at home in the later innings (64) as well as hits (80). Teams will typically play better at home, but the Rockies have excelled more than most with the clock running out, and that’s a major testament to fighting until the very last out.
The truly incredible outcome is that the Rockies aren’t just doing it at home. They also lead the league with a .286 AVG and .482 SLG on the road, alongside leading the league in hits (101) and runs scored (61). Add in their 14 home runs, which rank 14th in baseball. Somehow, the 2026 Rockies have done something unimaginable: carrying that “LoDo Magic” on the road.
A .286/.350/.482 slash on the road leads every Rockies team since 2002. To put that in context, the previous highs were a .247 AVG by the 2008 Rockies, a .321 OBP by the 2004 Rockies, and a .400 SLG by the 2020 Rockies. They already have the 10th most runs scored (61) and are on their way to overtaking the hits, runs, and home runs in the later innings.
Being able to consistently hit at home and on the road is a massive step forward for a team that has historically done well in one area and poorly in the other. There is a balance that has never been there before and shouldn’t be overlooked.
Late game heroes
The definitive figure of late-game heroics in franchise history has to be Mr. Late Night himself, Seth Smith. He had a penchant for delivering a clutch hit, often a home run, late in games, and you knew good things would happen late in the game at Coors Field. So, who are the heroes of the current Rockies?
As you’d expect, the Rockies’ late-game statistics are as good as they are because a greater number of players have found success late in the game. The Rockies have 10 players batting at least .280 in the eighth inning or later, eight of whom are batting over .300. Eight players are also slugging over .500, and six players have an OPS of 1.000 or better.
The main breadwinners late in games are names that have been exceptional all season. Hunter Goodman and TJ Rumfield have excellent slash lines, with Rumfield’s .365 AVG leading all qualified hitters. Both had six home runs late in the game and have combined to drive in 32 runs. Jake McCarthy has 12 RBI and 11 runs scored, both of which rank third on the team. Kyle Karros may be a surprise as he is slashing .308/.368/.558 with three home runs, four doubles, eight RBI, and 12 runs scored.
What’s great to see is that rookie newcomer Cole Carrigg has proven capable in the final innings of a game. Through 15 games, he is 5-for-12 with two doubles and a home run as well as four walks against one strikeout.
I believe in magic
A talking point for manager Warren Schaeffer, dating back to his tenure in 2025, has been about fighting to the very end. There was also something mentioned on a Rockies broadcast recently that the team isn’t just hoping to come back and win games, but actively believes they can and will win games. That mentality shift is emblematic of the progression from one of the least productive offenses in baseball to one of the better offenses in baseball. There is growth, and I find myself excited and confident that the Rockies will manage to tap into that “LoDo Magic” on any given night.
An eighth-inning collapse proved the difference maker as the Albuquerque Isotopes dropped their opener for the week. Leading 6-5 heading into the bottom of the eighth, reliever Blake Adams ended up being responsible for three runs and the loss after he loaded the bases and was replaced by veteran reliever Jordan Romano, who gave up a grand slam. The Isotopes scored two runs in the top of the ninth on a Sterlin Thompson home run, but the rally ended there. Charlie Condon also hit another home run in the game as part of a three-hit day, while Zac Veen hit his 14th home run of the season. Jordan Beck also contributed a three-run homer for his first of the year in Triple-A.
It was a slower night for the Hartford Yard Goats as they dropped the opener to the Somerset Patriots. Hartford collected just five hits, utilizing a pair of solo home runs to score all of their runs. Jack O’Dowd slugged a home run in his very first Double-A at-bat to lead off the third inning. Roc Riggio had a great night against his former club, going 3-for-4 with a solo home run in the ninth inning. Jackson Cox made the start for the Yard Goats and fired six innings, allowing four runs on seven hits, including two home runs. He also struck out eight and walked two. Michael Prosecky followed with two innings of relief, allowing a run on three hits, with two strikeouts.
It was a rather uneventful night for the Spokane Indians, but they managed to squeak out the win nonetheless. The Indians scored two runs on three hits with Tommy Hopfe going 2-for-3. Roynier Hernandez drew a bases-loaded walk in the eighth to drive in the first run of the game and Ethan Hedges had a sacrifice fly to bring in the second run. Yujanyer Herrera started on the mound and fired six shutout innings with six shutouts and allowing just three hits. Francis Rivera followed with two scoreless innings to get the win while Hunter Mann shut the door for the save.
The Fresno Grizzlies scored all their runs early, but couldn’t muster much else after the third inning as they had just five hits in the loss. Jesus Freitez led the way with three hits and two RBI, but the team went 1-for-19 with runners in scoring position as they drew 12 walks against nine strikeouts. Riley Kelly made the start for Fresno, giving up five runs on eight hits in 4.2 innings with five strikeouts. Bryson Van Sickle followed with three solid innings, giving up one run on five hits with six strikeouts. Manuel Olivares closed things out with 1.1 innings, allowing one run. In total, Fresno gave up 15 hits while Ontario went 5-for-10 with RISP.
In this episode, Evan Lang and I talk about Hunter Goodman’s incredible play of late, talk trade deadline ideas, and talk late game hijinks for the offense.
Jack O’Dowd has been a fun story in the minors this season for the Rockies. Signed after a great season in independent ball last year, O’Dowd has ascended quickly through the system to Double-A. However, he participated in a Q&A session in Spokane recently to talk about his season so far.
The first half of the season has flown by, as has the first half of 2026. As ever, a new page of the calendar brings the latest installation in our GM approval poll monthly. I’m certain that opinions will be particularly fierce as we ask you to consider what has reliably and consistently been the most controversial month in this era of Yankees baseball: June.
However, before we get to June, it might be instructive to see how GM Brian Cashman’s approval rating has tracked in the first two months of the campaign. He started the season off relatively strong for his standards, polling at a 41-percent approval rating as his team sat atop the AL East standings having won their first three series and ripped off an eight-game winning streak toward the end of the month. Despite finishing the following month in second place behind the Rays, Cashman’s approval rating remained at 41-percent in May as the team continued to boast to AL’s top offense and starting rotation. They enter the final day of June in exactly the same position as they entered it, a game-and-a-half behind the Rays, though with considerably greater concern over the roster.
The month started with a series loss to the Guardians and a split of two games with the Red Sox. However, the Yankees then ripped off three straight series wins against the Guardians, Blue Jays, and White Sox to provide a mirage of hope that maybe just maybe they could avoid their annual June Swoon.*
*Narrator: They did not.
Starting with the middle game of their series against the Reds, the Yankees have lost 9 of their last 11 games (including their last six in a row). They were swept in four games at Fenway by the last-place Red Sox, getting no-hit through five innings in each of the final three games. They’ve been one-hit through seven in their last two games and have 16 hits across their last five games, which is the lowest hit total in any five-game stretch in franchise history.
The most alarming part of June has been the sharp regression from the three units that powered their hot start: offense, the starting rotation, and defense. Through the first two months of the season, the Yankees boasted the second-best offense in MLB by wRC+ (115) and fWAR (12.1). In June, their offense ranked 26th in wRC+ (89) and 24th in fWAR (2.8). Similarly, their starting rotation was the best in baseball by ERA (2.97) and fWAR (7.7) and second in FIP (3.37) through the end of May. In June, they’ve sunken to 19th in ERA (4.69), 21st in fWAR (1.1) and 20th in FIP (4.57). Surprisingly, the one unit that stepped up in June was the bullpen, who led the AL in ERA (2.39), FIP (2.96), and fWAR (2.0)
And that brings us to the defense. Entering play yesterday, the Yankees had committed 16 errors in their last 11 games and 34 total in June — third-worst in MLB. All those errors meant they had allowed 17 unearned runs in their last 9 games as well as the fourth-most unearned runs in MLB at 42. Playing several guys out of position hasn’t helped (neither has the absence of Ryan McMahon since June 21st due to an infection), but the majority of errors came from a lack of a lack of concentration rather than a physical limitation.
Obviously, the mounting injuries are the primary culprit for this putrid stretch. The Yankees didn’t have Aaron Judge (broken rib), Max Fried (left elbow bone bruise), and Giancarlo Stanton (right calf strain) for the entire month of June. A hamstring injury also robbed them of Trent Grisham for more than half the month right in the middle of a searing hot streak. It also hasn’t helped that two of their offensive pillars in Ben Rice and Cody Bellinger have gone ice cold. Rice batted .196 with an 81 wRC+ and Bellinger .228 with an 87 wRC+ in June after both placed among the league’s top-25 hitters through the end of May. However, it is the job of the general manager to assemble depth should injuries occur, and the simple fact is that the replacements have fallen well short of the mark in June.
That brings us to today’s task. Do you approve of the job Brian Cashman has done through the end of June? On one hand, the Yankees have stayed within touching distance of the Rays despite their struggles. On the other hand, their June Swoon sheds serious doubt on the true identity and ability level of this team in the second half of the season. The polarizing GM certainly elicits stronger feelings than can be captured in a one-word response — you may feel a question such as the one being posed requires more nuance, greater elaboration, or a wider selection of options than just a “yes” or a “no,” however for the sake of this exercise, a binary question works best.
Note: This is the same poll that is currently appearing on the Feed, so if you’ve voted there, that should already be counted.
Bonilla, a six-time All-Star who played his last game in 2001, has been receiving a $1.19 million check from the New York Mets every year since 2011, the result of a decision 25 years ago to delay paying the $5.9 million they owed him.
Looking to dump Bonilla after the 1999 season, the Mets opted to defer his payment — with 8% interest — giving him $1,193,248.20 annually on July 1 from 2011-2035 — adding up to nearly $30 million.
“It’s bigger than my birthday," Bonilla told USA TODAY Sports. “When that day comes, I get texts all day long, and couple of days after and maybe a day or two before. Everybody just seems to love that day and have fun with it. It’s become a pretty big thing."
Contract deferrals weren't new in baseball at the time and have been deployed heavily in the 25 years since Bonilla left the Mets, but the fact that he will be getting seven-figure checks until he's 72 years old is what most captivates the baseball world.
“There’ll be plenty of other deferred contracts," Bonilla's former agent Dennis Gilbert told USA TODAY Sports in 2023, “but for a guy to be paid that long into his life, into his 70s, I don’t think we’ll ever see that again.
“That’s why Bobby Bonilla Day should be celebrated."
Bobby Bonilla Day contract
Bonilla signed a four-year, $23.3 million contract with the Marlins prior to the 1997 season and helped the team win its first World Series that year, but was traded to the Dodgers in 1998 as part of the club's infamous fire sale.
Before the 1999 season, the Dodgers traded Bonilla to the Mets, who were looking for a new right fielder at the time — with New York assuming the remaining two years and $11.65 million on Bonilla's contract.
Then 36 years old, Bonilla played just 60 regular season games for the Mets in 1999, batting .160. He was constantly booed by fans and clashed with manager Bobby Valentine over his playing time and was relegated to the bench for the team's postseason run.
The Mets released Bonilla after the 1999 season but still owed him $5.9 million for 2000. The team worked with Bonilla's agent (Gilbert) to defer the $5.9 million – with 8% interest – to annual payments of $1,193,248.20 on July 1 from 2011 to 2035.
The Mets' final "Bobby Bonilla Day" payment is set for 2035, when the six-time All-Star will be 72 years old.
Though Bobby Bonilla Day remains something of a punchline and opportunity to laugh at the Mets, the team has embraced the situation since Steve Cohen bought the team. New York's new owner immediately joked about holding a Bobby Bonilla Day celebration at Citi Field, complete with an oversized check.
Bobby Bonilla career stats
Bonilla played 2,113 career games in 16 seasons from 1986 to 2001, finishing with 287 home runs, a .279 average and an .829 OPS.
Bonilla's best years came with the Pirates from 1987-1991, averaging 23 home runs and 97 RBIs per season.
He was an All-Star four years in a row, winning three Silver Slugger awards, and was the 1990 NL MVP runner-up and finished third in MVP voting in 1991, his final year in Pittsburgh. He was also named an All-Star in 1993 and 1995 during his first tenure with the Mets.
When was Bobby Bonilla's last game?
Bobby Bonilla played his final career game on Oct. 7, 2001, with the St. Louis Cardinals against the Houston Astros.
May 22, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver (32) throws to the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images | Brad Mills-Imagn Images
Atlanta Braves right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver returned to the lineup card and made a rehab appearance for the Augusta GreenJackets on Tuesday evening. He underwent Tommy John surgery a little over a year ago and is ramping up just in time to contribute to the struggling Braves’ rotation.
During Tuesday’s outing, Smith-Shawver threw three innings of one-run ball. He gave up three hits, one of them a homer, and recorded four strikeouts.
Overall, it was an encouraging first step back for Smith-Shawver, who could factor into Atlanta’s rotation later this season if his rehab continues to go smoothly.
More Braves News:
The Braves ended the month with a 5-3 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.
MLB News:
The Miami Marlins placed reliever Anthony Bender on the 15-day injured list with a stress fracture in his right shin. Zach Brzykey has been called up to take his place in the bullpen.
Inglewood, CA - April 12: LA Clippers guard Bogdan Bogdanovic (7) reacts to making a three point shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Golden State Warriors at Intuit Dome on Sunday, April 12, 2026 in Inglewood, CA. (Eric Thayer / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
The Houston Rockets are adding to their depth by assigning former Los Angeles Clippers guard Bogdan Bogdanovich. ESPN insider Shams Charania was the first to report the news.
“Free agent Bogdan Bogdanovic has agreed to a one-year deal with the Houston Rockets, sources tell ESPN. Rockets executives recruited Bogdanovic tonight and now land an established, playoff-tested shooter for his 10th NBA season,” Charania tweeted.
Bogdanovic turns 34 in August, but he could still provide a spark off the bench for the Rockets. Bogdanovic only played in 23 games for the Clippers last season, averaging a career-low 7.4 points per game.
His best season came in the 2023-24 campaign, which was his fourth and final year with the Atlanta Hawks. He averaged 16.9 points per game while making 37.4 percent of his shots from beyond the arc. He finished fifth in the Sixth Man of the Year voting behind Norman Powell, Bobby Portis, Malik Monk, and Naz Reid.
Bogdanovic could possibly serve as a replacement for Josh Okogie or Jae’Sean Tate, who are both free agents this offseason. The Rockets could still bring back either Okogie or Tate, but this move suggests that one of them might not be coming back to the team next season.
TDS community, we want to hear your thoughts about Bogdanovic joining the Rockets. How do you think he’ll fit in with the squad? Was this a good move for the Rockets or another head-scratching move from the front office? Chime off in the comment section below.
