Posts

Posted on

Final Four official manning UConn-Illinois game was present for three of Huskies' losses this year

Dan Hurley is a man of superstition.

The Connecticut men's basketball coach is also often animated on the sidelines, whether it is his displeasure with something from his team or displeasure with a call from a referee (or referees) on the officiating crew.

Speaking of officials, the Huskies will see three officials in their Final Four game on Saturday vs. No. 3 Illinois who have worked previously worked their games earlier this season, including one who was on the whistle for three of their five losses.

DAN HURLEY FAMILY TREE: Explaining UConn coach's family basketball ties

As noted by CT Insider's David Borges, UConn is 1-3 on the season with official Ron Groover this season. The three losses came against Arizona on Nov. 19, at St. John's at Madison Square Garden on Feb. 6 and then Feb. 18 vs. Creighton. The lone win came in a home game against Marquette on Jan. 4.

Hurley has spoken at length about his intensity on the sidelines with officials this week in Indianapolis after he appeared to have butted heads with referee Roger Ayers in the final seconds of UConn's Elite Eight win vs. Duke last Sunday in Washington, D.C. after Braylon Mullins knocked down the game-winning 3-pointer.

REQUIRED READING: What time is men's Final Four? How to watch NCAA Tournament semifinals

"I get much more of a bad reaction from people, I think, on social media than when I meet regular people," Hurley said Friday, April 3 at the Final Four. "Because anytime I meet regular people, they look at me and they start laughing or they start smiling. Or (say), 'You're the guy from the video. You look a little crazy, but I think you're a good egg.'"

It's worth noting that in eight overall trips to the NCAA Tournament across his coaching career, Hurley has not received a technical foul or an ejection — like he did in the final game of the regular season vs. Marquette after making contact with an official — from a game in the tournament. He was mindful of this in a media availability on Thursday, and based on his speculation history, he's likely thinking of it still.

REQUIRED READING: Dan Hurley called his shot: Tarris Reed Jr. would be X-factor for UConn Final Four run

"I think I'm an intense coach. It's not easy to work my games. But I've always gotten zero technical fouls in my NCAA Tournament coaching career. I just jinxed myself. Oh, my God, now I'm going to get bounced out of this thing. Oh, my God," Hurley said on Thursday, April 2.

Saturday's Final Four will be the third national semifinal that Hurley has led the Huskies to in the last four years, the first team in over a decade to do such a thing in the NCAA Tournament in a four-year span. UConn is 17-3 in six NCAA Tournament appearances under Hurley.

Official crew for UConn-Illinois Final Four semifinal

The NCAA announced on Saturday that the official crew for UConn-Illinois in the Final Four will comprise Ron Groover, Paul Szelc and Marques Pettigrew. The alternate referee is Greg Nixon.

UConn has won both games that Szelc and Pettigrew worked earlier this season: Szelc for the win over Illinois at Te Garden in November, and then Pettigrew for the win over Florida in the Jimmy V Classic at The Garden in December.

REQUIRED READING: Braylon Mullins is more than a big shot. He's been UConn's missing piece

UConn-Illinois Final Four time today

  • Date: Saturday, April 4
  • Time: 6:09 p.m. ET
  • Location: Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis)

The Huskies and the Illini will tip off at 6:09 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 4 inside Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Final Four official for UConn-Illinois connected to Huskies' three losses

Posted on

College Basketball Crown payout format, winner's share: How much do teams make in CBC?

One team will head home with a national championship trophy when Michigan, Arizona, UConn and Illinois face off in the Final Four and national championship game this weekend.

Another team across the country won't be winning a national title, but will be going home with $300,000 in name, image and likeness cash.

The second annual College Basketball Crown, which Nebraska won during its inaugural tournament in 2025, is a five-day tournament in Las Vegas, where eight teams that didn't make the Men's NCAA Tournament compete for cash prizes.

REQUIRED READING: March Madness games today: Final Four schedule and game breakdowns

Oklahoma, Baylor, Creighton and West Virginia already earned at least $50,000 each for reaching the semifinals of the tournament, which are being played Saturday, April 4. The championship game will be held Sunday, April 5.

The CBC is a similar postseason tournament to the National Invitational Tournament (NIT), which usually features the top non-NCAA Tournament teams in a given season. NIL, though, is shaking up which consolation tournament teams choose to be a part of, especially with the CBC featuring all power conference teams.

Here's a look at the payout structure for the CBC in 2026, which features $500,000 in prize money:

CBC winner's share: How much does champion make in prize money?

  • CBC champions: $300,000

The champion of the College Basketball Crown earns $300,000 in NIL money.

College Basketball Crown payout structure 2026

Teams competing in the CBC are guaranteed to earn NIL cash prizes as long as they won their first-round game in 2026. Here's how the CBC payout structure works:

  • CBC champions: $300,000
  • CBC runners-up: $100,000
  • Semifinalists: $50,000 each

College Basketball Crown bracket, scores

Here's a look at the full College Basketball Crown bracket so far, with scores for each game:

Wednesday, April 1

  • Oklahoma 90, Colorado 86
  • Baylor 67, Minnesota 48

Thursday, April 2

  • West Virginia 82, Stanford 77
  • Creighton 82, Rutgers 69

Saturday, April 4

  • Oklahoma 82, Baylor 69
  • Creighton vs. West Virginia | 4 p.m. ET

Sunday, April 5:

  • Oklahoma vs. Creighton/West Virginia | 5:30 p.m. ET

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College Basketball Crown payout, winner's share: How much do teams make in CBC?

Posted on

Playoff Chances Take Another Hit As Red Wings Lose 4-1 To Conference-Worst Rangers

Follow Michael Whitaker On X

The Detroit Red Wings were hoping to build momentum after their victory over the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday and had a golden opportunity to do so this afternoon.

They faced the New York Rangers, who had already been eliminated from playoff contention and entered the game with the NHL’s worst home record this season.

Instead, the Red Wings once again failed to rise to the occasion and were dealt another blow to their fading Stanley Cup playoff hopes as time continues to run out.

Rookie Gabe Perreault scored a hat trick as part of New York's 4-1 win over the Red Wings at Madison Square Garden, Detroit's fifth regulation loss in their last seven games.

It was also the fourth time in their last six that Detroit's opponent led 3-0. 

The Red Wings were playing without defenseman Justin Faulk, who was injured in the win over the Flyers; he was replaced in the lineup by rookie Axel Sandin-Pellikka, who was called up from the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Additionally, Michael Rasmussen returned to the lineup after missing seven games, replacing Mason Appleton. 

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features. 

Image

Jaroslav Chmelar opened the scoring in the first period, deflecting a shot from defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov past goaltender John Gibson, who was making his 14th straight start. 

Perreault then scored the first of his three goals on the afternoon following a defensive breakdown in Detroit's zone. He added two more goals in the third period, including an empty-net tally to complete the natural hat trick. 

Forward David Perron, who hadn't registered a point since being re-acquired by the Red Wings nearly one month ago, scored with 33 seconds remaining in the game to prevent Jonathan Quick from picking up what would have been his 66th career shutout. 

Detroit failed to convert on four separate power-play chances, while the Rangers went one-for-two on their opportunities with the man-advantage. 

Because the Ottawa Senators also lost today in regulation to the Minnesota Wild, who the Red Wings face tomorrow afternoon at home, there remains a four-way tie with the Columbus Blue Jackets and Philadelphia Flyers for the final Wild Card postseason spot in the Eastern Conference. 

Never miss a story by adding us to your Google News favorites!

Image

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

Boston Celtics Daily Links 4/4/26

CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 8: The sneakers worn by Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics during the game against the New York Knicks on March 8, 2026 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Herald Jayson Tatum, Celtics destroy Bucks to close out road trip

GlobeCeltics start fast again and roll to 133-101 blowout of the Bucks

The 76ers’ return to health could be coming at the right time to make a playoff run

Cooper Flagg becomes first teenager to score 50 points in an NBA game in Mavericks loss to Magic

Celtics get out to another roaring start, finish off Bucks in 32-point road kill

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side – Bucks 4/3/26

CelticsBlog 10 Takeaways from the Celtics Dismantling of the Bucks

Neemias Queta finishing breakout with Celtics on a high note: ‘It’s unbelievable’

Celtics vs. Bucks player grades: Boston ends road trip on fire

Celtics dominate the Bucks in Milwaukee, 133-101

CLNS Media Celtics Look Like a Championship Team to Close Road Trip Over Bucks

Celtics Cruise Past Bucks to Finish Road Trip | Garden Report Postgame Show on CLNS

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 133, Bucks 101

NBC Sports BostonCeltics-Bucks recap: C’s dominate offensively in 32-point win to close road trip

Jaylen opens up about left hand narrative, improved court vision and more

NESNFormer NBA Stars Make Bold Celtics Postseason Guarantee

Jayson Tatum ‘Super Excited’ And ‘Grateful’ For Unexpected Opportunity

Mass Live Celtics star makes candid admission about teammate after Bucks win

Bucks veteran shares eye-opening opinion of Celtics after rout

Kristaps Porzingis gives vague answer to free agency future

Celtics playoff picture: Boston strengthens hold on East’s No. 2 seed

Jayson Tatum is the Celtics ‘Name to Know’ Player of the Game in Friday’s win over Bucks

4 takeaways as Celtics crush Bucks to inch closer to No. 2 seed

Celtics WireOn the Celtics epic Catan battles

The Celtics just blew the doors off the Bucks

Celtics killer no more, Taurean Prince on what went wrong for Bucks in Boston blowout

Boston Celtics outshoot Milwaukee Bucks in 133-101 blowout (PHOTOS)

Jaylen Brown on how Tracy McGrady inspired his own career with Celtics

Celtics history: Magic 51-game streak snapped; Pinkney debut, Theis born

Celtics use another big first quarter to lead blowout over Bucks

The Celtics might get big man Nikola Vucevic back soon

Who are the Celtics likely to play in the first round of the playoffs?

Derrick White, Jayson Tatum on Celtics as a contender, Tatum’s return

Boston Sports Journal Simone: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown play their best basketball together in elementary test vs. Bucks

BSJ Game Report: Celtics 133, Bucks 101 – Complete Boston domination in Milwaukee

Hardwood HoudiniCeltics peaking at the right time with record-breaking performances

Celtics’ playoff rotation coming into clear view with season finale approaching

Celtics are officially on the clock to make their next roster move

Celtics once again reminded of their own genius in beatdown of Bucks

Thankfully the Celtics avoided dire Giannis-Bucks situation with Jayson Tatum

CLNS Media/YouTubeCeltics Look Like CONTENDERS with This Version of Jayson Tatum | You Got Boston w/ Noa Dalzell

Boston Today Celtics’ Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum Cement Status as NBA’s Top Duo

Fansided NBA Awards debates: Why every race is so close this year

HeavyCeltics’ Jayson Tatum is Starting to Find a Spark in Recent Stretch

Celtics’ Neemias Queta Sets Bold Target After Hitting Career Milestone

Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Drops Honest Take on Left Hand Jokes

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Sends Powerful Message Ahead of Playoffs

NBA/YouTube CELTICS at BUCKS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | April 3, 2026

Brew HoopRapid Recap: Celtics 133, Bucks 101

SI .comIn One Season, Neemias Queta Has Gone From Playing Garbage Time to Helping Create It

Celtics-Bucks Player Grades: Tatum, Brown, Queta Combine to Knock Bucks Out Early

Celtics RoundtableBoston Celtics’ Neemias Queta Joins Obscure History in Blowout Win

Eurohoops Doc Rivers: “I’ve never been a fan of negotiating in media”

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel The Milwaukee Bucks lost to the Boston Celtics 133-101

Boston Celtics/YouTubeHugo Gonzalez is becoming an elite defender in the NBA | The Grind presented by Gatorade

Posted on

Why does Arizona say 'Bear Down'? Meaning of slogan with Wildcats in Final Four

INDIANAPOLIS — Arizona is out to Bear Down at the 2026 Final Four.

The Wildcats are back on the biggest stage in college basketball, breaking a 25-year drought to reach the national semifinals. It's been a remarkable ride, winning the Big 12 regular season and tournament titles to earn a No. 1 seed in March Madness. Arizona hasn't slowed down since then, winning every game by double-digits to make it to Lucas Oil Stadium.

With Arizona having one of its most successful seasons in decades and two wins from its first national title since 1997, fans will sure be rallying around its most famous chant: Bear Down.

People may be hearing it for the first time and may be confused about why the Wildcats are chanting about bears, but it holds a special meaning for Arizona, with a story that is 100 years old.

Why does Arizona say ‘Bear Down’?

Bear Down came from a tragedy.

In 1926, John Byrd “Button” Salmon was a star on campus as the student body president, member of several honor societies, football quarterback and baseball catcher, according to Arizona.

That October after the varsity team beat the freshman squad, Salmon returning from a trip to Phoenix with friends when he was in  their car crashed and rolled over, leaving him "critically injured." He was paralyzed below his second rib and his spine was shattered. He had regained some motor function in his arms, but doctors determined that any additional surgeries wouldn’t be effective.

Coach J.F. "Pop" McKale visited him in the hospital regularly, but Salmon died the morning of Oct. 18 at the age of 22. Before he died, his last words with McKale were a message to his teammates, "Tell them... tell the team to 'bear down.'”

Later that season, McKale gathered his team and relayed the message to the players.

Word spread of Salmon's final message and the university student body grew attached to it, painting the slogan on the roof of the gym and it inspired Jack K. Lee to write the song “Bear Down, Arizona” in 1952 for his application to become the university’s band director. He earned it and the song became the fight song, which is played at sporting events and the campus bell tower daily.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why does Arizona say 'Bear Down'? Meaning with Wildcats in Final Four

Posted on

Is Bill Murray a UConn or Illinois fan? Comedian answers question ahead of Final Four

Bill Murray is going to be present for the Final Four in the 2026 Men's NCAA Tournament on Saturday, April 4.

College basketball fans won't be too shocked by this development, as the actor and comedian has long attended Connecticut men's basketball games. That's because he's the father of Luke Murray, an assistant coach for UConn and future head coach of Boston College.

REQUIRED READING: March Madness games today: Final Four schedule and game breakdowns

However, Bill Murray also grew up a fan of Illinois men's basketball — the team UConn happens to play in the Final Four for a chance to compete in the March Madness national championship game.

So, who is the "Saturday Night Live," "Caddyshack," and "Groundhog Day" actor rooting for between UConn and Illinois?

Here's what Bill Murray said ahead of the Final Four meeting between Huskies and Fighting Illini:

Is Bill Murray a UConn or Illinois basketball fan?

Bill Murray grew up in Evanston, Illinois, and is a known longtime Chicago Cubs fan. And, despite attending Regis University in Denver, a private Jesuit school, he still grew up a fan of the Fighting Illini.

He has also been seen supporting Illinois basketball in the past, as evidenced by a 2005 photo of when Illinois last played in the Final Four:

That said, Bill Murray will be rooting for the Huskies for at least one more game.

“Go Huskies!” Murray wrote in a text message to a Chicago Tribune reporter earlier this week.

His son, Luke Murray, 41, is in his fifth season as an assistant coach to Dan Hurley. He has won two national championships in the role. However, last month, he was hired as the new head coach for Boston College.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Bill Murray a UConn or Illinois fan? What to know ahead of Final Four

Posted on

Saturday afternoon Orioles game thread: at Pirates, 4:05 ET

BALTIMORE, MD - MARCH 29: Shane Baz #34 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches in the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on March 29, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Probable pitchers: RHP Shane Baz (0-0, 6.75 ERA, 4 K) vs. RHP Carmen Mlodzinski (0-0, 4.15 ERA, 8 K)

Where to watch: MASN/MASN+

The Orioles’ Game 1 loss in Pittsburgh followed the same script we’ve seen far too often this young season: the starting pitcher gives up a big inning early and the offense struggles to claw the O’s back into the game. Friday night, the O’s fell just short, with Pete Alonso striking out against former Oriole Gregory Soto to seal a 5-4 loss. This afternoon, Baltimore will look to get off to a faster start and tie the series with the Pirates at one game apiece.

Offseason acquisition and newly minted $68M man Shane Baz will take the ball for the O’s, looking to improve on his first start in the black and orange. Like Kyle Bradish yesterday, Baz ran into early trouble in his Orioles debut vs. the Twins. In the 2nd inning of his start vs. Minnesota, Baz allowed the first four base runners to reach before allowing a bases-loaded double that put Baltimore in a quick 4-0 hole. The 26-year-old right-hander would rebound from there, keeping the Twins off the scoreboard from there and giving the offense the time to rally back for an 8-6 win.

Still, a final line of 5.1 IP, 7 H, 4 ER and 4 K was a disappointing debut for the hard-throwing righty, especially coming immediately in the wake of his five-year contract extension. Baz could have the perfect “get-right game” opportunity against the Pirates, however. In his only previous meeting with Pittsburgh, at the start of last season with the Rays, Baz blanked the Buccos over six innings while collecting 10 strikeouts. That outing came in the hitter-friendly confines of Tampa’s temporary home at Steinbrenner Field, meaning Baz may get even more of a boost in the more pitcher-friendly PNC Park.

However, yesterday’s matchup showed that this is a different Pirates offense in 2026. After finishing last in runs, home runs and OPS in 2025, the revamped Pittsburgh order is putting up nearly five runs/game through their first seven games of 2026. Konnor Griffin, the No. 1 prospect in baseball, sparked yesterday’s game-defining rally for the Pirates with an RBI double in his first career AB. Oneil Cruz, former AL East rival Brandon Lowe and former Oriole Ryan O’Hearn have also been crucial for Pittsburgh’s offensive revival.

Opposing Baz and looking to shut down the Baltimore bats is 27-year-old right-hander Carmn Mlodzinski. The South Carolina native began last season in the Pirates’ rotation, but ultimately ended up back in the bullpen after posting a 5.67 in nine starts and spending a month in Triple-A.

The O’s will look to pounce on Mlodzinski early, as the righty has a 4.45 career ERA as a starter (compared to 2.71 as a reliever) and only averages just over 3.1 IP per start. The former first-round pick out of South Carolina did look solid in his first start of the year against the Mets, posting a line of 4.1 IP, 6 H, 2 ER and 8 K. Mlodzinski is also a reverse splits guy, with opposing RHBs posting an OPS 43 points higher than LHBs. That could set up well for Taylor Ward and Pete Alonso, who have already gotten off to strong starts at the top of the Orioles’ order.

Orioles lineup

  1. Taylor Ward (R) DH
  2. Gunnar Henderson (L) SS
  3. Pete Alonso (R) 1B
  4. Adley Rutschman (S) C
  5. Dylan Beavers (L) LF
  6. Coby Mayo (R) 3B
  7. Leody Taveras (S) CF
  8. Colton Cowser (L) RF
  9. Blaze Alexander (R) 2B

Pirates Lineup

  1. Oneil Cruz (L) CF
  2. Brandon Lowe (L) 2B
  3. Bryan Reynolds (S) LF
  4. Ryan O’Hearn (L) RF
  5. Marcell Ozuna (R) DH
  6. Konnor Griffin (R) SS
  7. Spencer Horowitz (L) 1B
  8. Nick Gonzales (R) 3B
  9. Joey Bart (R) C
Posted on

Astros vs Athletics Game Thread: Game 9, 4/4/2026

The Houston Astros (5-3) travel to the Athletics (2-5) this afternoon in Sacrament0 in the second game of a three game series.

Astros game three starterRHP Tatsuya Imai will make his second start of the season for the Astros, this time opposite RHP Luis Morales and the Athletics.

Saturday’S TILT: The Astros and Athletics will play the second game of their three-game series this afternoon as Houston looks to bounce back after last night’s loss.

ON THE HUNT: RHP Tatsuya Imai is making his second career start after getting knocked around in 2.2 innings in game four. He carries am 13.50 ERA with four strikeouts and four walks.

Imai did not give up any runs this spring in more than ten innings of work. He is coming in off a sparkling career in the Japanese Professional League and remains a high ranking rookie of the year candidate this season.

ASTROS VS. Morales: The Astros are squaring off against Morales for the first time. He pitched in only ten games last year as a rookie.

RIVALRY VS. THE ATHLETICS: The Astros and Athletics have squared off 182 times in their history. They have a 101-82 against the Athletics in their lifetime. However, the Athletics were 8-5 against the Astros in the 2025 season and 0-1 so far on the 2026 season.

MR. 500: LF Yordan Alvarez recorded his 500th career RBI last night on a sac-fly RBI in the third inning…became the 15th player in franchise history to record 500 RBI…is also the fastest player in franchise history to record 500 career RBI doing so in just 685 games, passing 1B Jeff Bagwell, who recorded 500 RBI in 717 games.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Friday, April 3, 3:05 p.m. CST

Location: Sutter Health Park, Sacramento, CA

TV: Space City Home Network

Streaming: SCHN

Radio: KBME 790 AM; TUDN 102.9 FM HD2 (Spanish)

Astros Lineup

SS Jeremy Pena

LF Yordan Alvarez

2B Jose Altuve

3B Carlos Correa

1B Christian Walker

RF Joey Loperfido

DH Yainer Diaz

CF Jake Meyers

C Christian Vazquez

Athletics Lineup

1B Nick Kurtz

C Shea Langeliers

LF Tyler Soderstrom

DH Brent Rooker

SS Jacob Wilson

RF Lawrence Butler

3B Max Muncy

2B Jeff McNeil

CF Denzel Clarke

Posted on

Canadiens Winger Flying Under The Radar While Having A Great Season

There has been no shortage of storylines around the Montreal Canadiens this season; the Habs’ struggles in net, Juraj Slafkovsky’s awakening, Cole Caufield’s chase for the 50-goal mark, the Rocket Richard Trophy and Nick Suzuki’s arrival on the international stage, which earned him recognition in other NHL markets—lost amongst all that, though, is the fact that Alex Newhook is having the best season of his career.

The 25-year-old winger has only played 35 games so far this season, but he still has 23 points to his name, which is a 54-point pace projected over the course of a full 82-game campaign. In the past, his highest-scoring season was 34 points in just 55 games in his first year with the Habs, which was a 51-point pace over 82 games.

Canadiens’ Dobson Is Not Just About The Offense
Canadiens’ Guhle Has Found His Game
Caufield And Canadiens’ Focus Is In The Right Place

Not unlike Kirby Dach, Newhook has been plagued by injuries since joining the Habs ahead of the 2023-24 season. In three seasons, he has played just 172 games out of a possible 239 so far. Still, with regular linemates Ivan Demidov and Oliver Kapanen this year, he has proven to be a viable option on the top six. A much better option than Dach, who only put up 14 points in the 32 games he skated in this season, a 36-point pace over a full 82-game season.

Granted, on a contending team, Newhook would more than likely be a good third liner, but playing with a couple of talented youngsters, he has shown an ability to raise the level of his game. Next season, the Newfoundlander will be entering the final year of the four-year deal he signed when he joined the Canadiens, and he will have another chance to prove that he should be part of Montreal’s plans long-term. In an ideal world, he would be able to remain healthy and prove that he can consistently produce at the rate he has this season.

As things stand, he looks like a good option while the Canadiens wait to see how players like Michael Hage and Alexander Zharovsky will develop in the coming years and how well their skills will translate to the NHL.

In the Canadiens’ seven-game winning streak, Newhook has five points and a plus-five rating.

Follow Karine on X @KarineHains Bluesky @karinehains.bsky.social and Threads @karinehains.  

Bookmark The Hockey News Canadiens' page for all the news and happenings around the Canadiens.

Join the discussion by signing up to the Canadiens' roundtable on The Hockey News.

Subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. 

Posted on

Washington Nationals vs Los Angeles Dodgers Game Thread

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 03: CJ Abrams #5 of the Washington Nationals celebrates with James Wood #29 after hitting a three-run home run in the first inning during the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on Friday, April 3, 2026 in Washington, District of Columbia. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

After a deflating blow out loss yesterday, the Nats have to get back on track. That will not be easy against the mighty Dodgers. Hopefully the Nats pitching can give them a better chance of success this afternoon. The Nats have had a mostly positive start, but the vibes will turn sour if this losing streak extends.

The Nats are making a couple of changes in the lineup. Brady House will be back at third base. Curtis Mead will make his Nats Park debut and play first base. That means Luis Garcia Jr. will slide to DH. Jorbit Vivas is preferred to Nasim Nunez at second today. The Nats will continue to rotate at catcher, with Drew Millas behind the plate today. Jake Irvin was sharp in his first start, but he will need to limit the long ball today.

There is only one change to the Dodgers lineup. They have an old friend in the lineup, with Alex Call hitting ninth and playing left field. Otherwise, it is the same faces who terrorized the Nats yesterday. Blake Butera has talked about the depth of this lineup a couple times, and it is really crazy to see. Tyler Glasnow will be on the mound.

Join the conversation!

Sign up for a user account and get:

  • Fewer ads
  • Create community posts
  • Comment on articles, community posts
  • Rec comments, community posts
  • New, improved notifications system!

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 4:05 PM EST

TV: Nationals.TV

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

The Nats have been hitting the ball well, but the pitching has been a problem at times. Jake Irvin looked sharp in his first start, but the Dodgers will be a massive test for him. We will see if he is up for the challenge. Follow along in the comments and let’s go Nats.

Posted on

Where to watch Philadelphia Phillies vs. Colorado Rockies: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Saturday, April 4

The Philadelphia Phillies have won three in a row, including a 10-1 victory over the Colorado Rockies in the opener of their series on Friday night. Jesús Luzardo is scheduled to start for the Phillies against Brennan Bernardino.

  • Philadelphia Phillies: 4-3 (No. 3 in NL East)

  • Colorado Rockies: 2-5 (No. 4 in NL West)

  • Spread: Colorado Rockies +2.5

  • Moneyline: Colorado Rockies +200 / Philadelphia Phillies -250

  • Over/Under: 10.5

Philadelphia Phillies: Jesús Luzardo (0-1, ERA: 9.00, K: 7, WHIP: 1.17)
Colorado Rockies: Brennan Bernardino (1-0, ERA: 0.00, K: 1, WHIP: 0.67)

Weather: 63°F at first pitch

Ballpark: Capacity: 50,144 | Roof: Open | Surface: Grass

Posted on

Gabe Perreault's hat trick leads Rangers to 4-1 win over Red Wings

NEW YORK (AP) — Failing to score until there were 32 seconds left and allowing a hat trick to Gabriel Perreault, the Detroit Red Wings lost an important game in their pursuit of a playoff spot, 4-1 at the New York Rangers on Saturday.

With six games left, the Red Wings remain on the outside looking in as part of a competitive Eastern Conference race down the stretch. They are among a handful of teams fighting for the East's second and final wild-card spot.

Detroit's loss clinched a berth for the Buffalo Sabres, who ended the NHL's longest postseason drought at 14 seasons. Though his teammates came up empty on scoring, goaltender John Gibson made some big saves among his 17, playing well in his 14th consecutive start.

Gibson allowed a deflection goal to Jaroslav Chmelar 13 minutes in, then one each to Perreault in the second and third periods. The first came from close range after a perfect pass from Mika Zibanejad and the second off the rush.

Perreault finished off his first career hat trick with an empty-netter with 1:44 left.

Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin appeared to get banged up from a series of collisions and was in obvious pain on the bench in the second. Larkin returned and gutted through it, unsurprising given what's at stake.

The Rangers played spoiler with Jonathan Quick stopping 31 of 32 shots in his return from injury. Playing for the first time since March 18, the 40-year-old in the twilight of his career stopped Emmitt Finnie the shift after Chmelar scored, slid over to make a pad save on David Perron late in the first and got lucky when J.T. Compher's shot rang off the post and out with 13 minutes remaining.

Fans chanted “Quickie! Quickie!” in the final minutes of what could be Quick's final NHL game.

Up next

Red Wings: Host the playoff-bound Minnesota Wild on Sunday.

Rangers: Igor Shesterkin figures to get the nod at home against the Washington Capitals on Sunday night.

Posted on

Rockies claim lefty reliever Sammy Peralta from Milwaukee

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 28, 2026: Sammy Peralta #57 of the Milwaukee Brewers throws a pitch during the sixth inning of a spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at American Family Fields of Phoenix on February 28, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by David Durochik/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

The Colorado Rockies announced Saturday afternoon that they had claimed left-handed reliever Sammy Peralta off waivers from the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Rockies have optioned Peralta to the Triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes.

Peralta, 27, is not related to left-handed reliever Luis Peralta, who is also currently in Albuquerque. He was originally selected by the Chicago White Sox in the 18th round of the 2019 draft out of the University of Tampa. He made his big league debut with the White Sox in 2023 and posted a 4.37 ERA over 45 2/3 innings across parts of two seasons with 37 strikeouts and 24 walks.

Since 2024 Peralta has spent time with multiple organizations—including several individual stints with the White Sox—and was briefly called up by the Los Angeles Angels in 2025. Over five appearances with the Angels he yielded 12 runs—nine earned—over 10 2/3 innings with eight strikeouts and six walks.

Peralta utilizes a mix of five pitches, none of which average more than 89 MPH: a slider, a sinker, a changeup, a four-seam fastball, and an occasional sweeper.

To clear space on the 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher McCade Brown has been moved to the 60-day injured list.

Brown, 25, made his MLB debut directly from Double-A last season. He posted a 7.36 ERA over seven starts and struck out 23 batters through 25 2/3 innings. Brown missed the entirety of spring training with right shoulder inflammation. He was most recently schedule to throw batting practice against live hitters on March 28th.

The Rockies’ 40-man roster is currently full.

Please keep in mind our Purple Row Community Guidelines when you’re commenting. Thanks!

Posted on

Where to watch Chicago Cubs vs. Cleveland Guardians: Live stream, start time, TV channel, odds for Saturday, April 4

The Chicago Cubs (3-4) face the Cleveland Guardians (5-3) in the second game of their series. The Guardians won the opener 4-1 on Friday. The starting pitchers are Shota Imanaga for the Cubs and Slade Cecconi for the Guardians.

  • Chicago Cubs: 3-4 (#5 in NL Central)

  • Cleveland Guardians: 5-3 (#1 in AL Central)

  • Spread: Cleveland Guardians +1.5

  • Moneyline: Cleveland Guardians +115 / Chicago Cubs -135

  • Over/Under: 8

Chicago Cubs: Shota Imanaga (0-1, ERA: 7.20, K: 7, WHIP: 1.60)
Cleveland Guardians: Slade Cecconi (0-1, ERA: 12.46, K: 5, WHIP: 2.08)

Weather: 69°F at first pitch

Ballpark: Capacity: 34,788 | Roof: Open | Surface: Grass

Posted on

Texas Rangers lineup for April 4, 2026

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 18: Kumar Rocker #80 of the Texas Rangers throws a pitch during a Spring Training game against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium on March 18, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Texas Rangers lineup for April 4, 2026 against the Cincinnati Reds: starting pitchers are Kumar Rocker for the Rangers and Rhett Lowder for the Reds.

Texas looks to break a two game losing streak in Kumar Rocker’s 2026 debut. Skip Schumaker is running back the group from yesterday.

The lineup:

Nimmo — RF

Langford — LF

Seager — SS

Burger — 1B

Pederson — DH

Smith — 2B

Jung — 3B

Carter — CF

Jansen — C

6:05 p.m. Central start time. Rangers are -140 favorites.