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Where Knicks stand after signing Malcolm Brogdon

The Knicks are signing veteran guard Malcolm Brogdon to a one-year, non-guaranteed deal, which will see the veteran receive strong consideration for a roster spot.

Landry Shamet, who agreed to terms to re-sign with the Knicks on Thursday, will also get strong consideration for a roster spot.  

If the Knicks want to keep both Brogdon and Shamet, they will have to trade one of their own players to create the roster spot.

Trading either Pacôme Dadiet or Miles McBride would clear enough cap space to sign both Shamet and Brogdon. (There are other combinations of players the Knicks could trade to create the space to add both veterans, but those two are being mentioned because it would be the most direct path for the Knicks to take if they wanted to keep both vets.)

I’d be surprised if the Knicks made a move like that ahead of training camp. I’d assume that they let things play out in training camp/preseason before making decisions on final roster spots. It’s also worth pointing out that they have always held McBride in high regard and haven’t been receptive to any past trades involving the now 25-year-old.  

As things currently stand, the Knicks have enough room under the second apron to keep a veteran free agent like Shamet, Brogdon, or Garrison Matthews and to sign a rookie to a minimum deal. The rookie needs to have been drafted by the Knicks. So the plan heading into camp is for New York to sign Mohamed Diawara to that rookie deal.

The Knicks have also had other veteran free agents in for workouts lately. Thomas Bryant, who played well against New York in the Eastern Conference Finals with Indiana, has been in New York for open gym workouts and really impressed the Knicks, per SNY league sources.

Bryant is the best big man free agent left on the board. The Knicks don’t have a rotation role for him at the moment. But they are certainly fans of the 28-year-old.

I’d expect New York to host some other veterans for workouts ahead of camp. As noted on Thursday, big man Trey Jemison III is also squarely on the Knicks’ radar ahead of training camp.

With Brogdon aboard, there will certainly be a competition in preseason for the open roster spot. If two of the veteran players separate themselves from the pack, the Knicks will have to trade one of their rostered players to bring those vets in. Certainly something to keep an eye on over the next few weeks.  

As for Brogdon, the Knicks were looking for depth at point guard, and they did well to land the veteran at this point in the offseason. When healthy, Brogdon had a solid season last year for the Wizards. He averaged 12.7 points and 4.1 assists per game. But he was limited to 24 contests (13 starts) due to injury.

During his nine-year career, which has also included stints with the Bucks, Pacers, Celtics, and Trail Blazers, Brogdon has averaged 15.3 points and 3.6 assists. His agreement with the Knicks was first reported by ESPN.

This offseason, in addition to Brogdon and Shamet, New York added guard Jordan Clarkson and forward Guerschon Yabusele.

Jake Fischer earlier reported the Knicks’ interest in Bryant. I’m sure the Knicks would love to have Bryant in camp, but they have depth at center – Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and Ariel Hukporti – so there is no room in the rotation for Bryant.

The Knicks, it should be noted, will also be able to add a veteran free agent later in the season because they will be able to fit the pro-rated contract under the second apron.

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Buehler joins Phillies' fun in winning debut vs. Royals

Buehler joins Phillies' fun in winning debut vs. Royals  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Walker Buehler stepped right into the Phillies’ winning ways Friday night. 

The 31-year-old righty made a victorious debut at Citizens Bank Park as the Phils became the first MLB team to rack up 50 home wins this season with an 8-2 decision over the Royals. They’ve lost just 23 times in Philadelphia. 

With their fifth straight win, the 88-60 Phillies surged closer to clinching the NL East. The Mets’ loss to the Rangers dropped the Phils’ magic number to three.

Buehler pitched five good innings, allowing five hits and one run. He walked one Royal and struck out three.

“He fits right in,” Bryce Harper said. “He fits into that mold of a Philadelphia baseball player. It’s just a lot of fun to be around somebody that’s won in his career, has obviously pitched in big situations, big moments deep into the postseason. Getting a guy like that in our clubhouse is huge for us.”

Kansas City did grab a lead in Buehler’s first inning as a Phillie. Bobby Witt Jr. singled up the middle, stole second base with two outs and scored on Maikel Garcia’s RBI knock. 

The Phillies bounced back with a run against Michael Lorenzen in the second inning. Otto Kemp lined a leadoff double and eventually came home on Rafael Marchan’s sacrifice fly. 

Buehler worked around a solid four-seam fastball that averaged 93.8 mph and threw strikes on 26 of his first 35 pitches. Even with that zone-attacking approach, the Royals didn’t hit many balls on the nose vs. Buehler. They had one ball in play with an exit velocity over 100 mph through four innings, which was five fewer than the Phillies.

“Most of this year and even last year, I struggled a lot with the fastball command,” Buehler said. “I’ve thrown one way my whole life since I was 10 years old and I think the last two years, coming off of (Tommy John surgery) rehab, I just haven’t thrown that way. If I can get my arm to the slot, move the way I want and all this baseball mumbo-jumbo stuff, the feel of everything kind of comes back and makes sense to my hand and my brain.

“There’s room for an uptick, hopefully. To be able to execute and make some pitches is I think a great first step.”

The Phils went on top by teeing off against Lorenzen to begin the bottom of third. 

Harper laced an opposite-field two-run homer. Brandon Marsh then drove a high sinker to the same region as Harper’s dinger, raced to third base, slid in safely and pumped his fist in exultant celebration. Kemp singled to left through the Royals’ drawn-in infield.  

The fourth inning was even worse for Lorenzen. Marchan, Harrison Bader and Kyle Schwarber all doubled, the Phils stretched their advantage to 6-1 and Lorenzen exited. The Phillies reached double-digit hits for the fourth game in a row. 

The bullpen comfortably got the job done.

Tanner Banks, Tim Mayza, Orion Kerkering and Max Lazar combined to record the last 12 outs. Bryson Stott’s two-run long ball in the seventh inning made the Phils’ route to the finish line even a little less stressful.

The one late-inning negative for the Phillies was Edmundo Sosa’s exit in the seventh with right groin tightness, which manager Rob Thomson said he’d been dealing with “a little bit” recently.

“He’ll be day-to-day,” Thomson said. “We’ll check him out tomorrow. I just saw him favor it a little bit while he was on defense, so I checked him out. He said, ‘Yeah, it’s a little sore.’ Precautionary for now. We got him out of there.”

Bohm moving through rehab process 

Thomson said pregame that Alec Bohm will “hopefully” be able to return as soon as his 10-day injured list stint ends. The Phils placed Bohm on the IL on Monday with left shoulder inflammation. 

“He’s running,” Thomson said. “He’s going to do some glove work today. Hopefully, tomorrow he’ll start swinging the bat.”

Kemp started his fifth consecutive game at third base without Bohm and went 2 for 4. He’s had an excellent stretch since rejoining the Phillies, going 7 for 20 with two home runs and six RBIs. 

On deck 

The Phils’ Taijuan Walker (4-8, 4.03 ERA) and Kansas City’s Ryan Bergert (2-2, 3.48) will start Saturday night. Aaron Nola (4-8, 6.24 ERA) and Noah Cameron (3.00 ERA) are slated to pitch Sunday afternoon’s series finale.

Once the Royals leave town, the Phillies will embark on their final road trip of 2025, a six-gamer with series against the Dodgers and Diamondbacks. 

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Buehler joins Phillies' fun in winning debut vs. Royals

Buehler joins Phillies' fun in winning debut vs. Royals  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Walker Buehler stepped right into the Phillies’ winning ways Friday night. 

The 31-year-old righty made a victorious debut at Citizens Bank Park as the Phils became the first MLB team to rack up 50 home wins this season with an 8-2 decision over the Royals. They’ve lost just 23 times in Philadelphia. 

With their fifth straight win, the 88-60 Phillies surged closer to clinching the NL East. The Mets’ loss to the Rangers dropped the Phils’ magic number to three.

Buehler pitched five good innings, allowing five hits and one run. He walked one Royal and struck out three.

Kansas City did grab a lead in Buehler’s first inning as a Phillie. Bobby Witt Jr. singled up the middle, stole second base with two outs and scored on Maikel Garcia’s RBI knock. 

The Phillies bounced back with a run against Michael Lorenzen in the second inning. Otto Kemp lined a leadoff double and eventually came home on Rafael Marchan’s sacrifice fly. 

Buehler worked around a solid four-seam fastball that averaged 93.8 mph and threw strikes on 26 of his first 35 pitches. Even with that zone-attacking approach, the Royals didn’t hit many balls on the nose vs. Buehler. They had one ball in play with an exit velocity over 100 mph through four innings, which was five fewer than the Phillies.

The Phils went on top by teeing off against Lorenzen to begin the bottom of third. 

Bryce Harper laced an opposite-field two-run homer. Brandon Marsh then drove a high sinker to the same region as Harper’s dinger, raced to third base, slid in safely and pumped his fist in exultant celebration. Kemp singled to left through the Royals’ drawn-in infield.  

The fourth inning was even worse for Lorenzen. Marchan, Harrison Bader and Kyle Schwarber all doubled, the Phils stretched their advantage to 6-1 and Lorenzen exited. The Phillies reached double-digit hits for the fourth game in a row. 

The bullpen comfortably got the job done.

Tanner Banks, Tim Mayza, Orion Kerkering and Max Lazar combined to record the last 12 outs. Bryson Stott’s two-run long ball in the seventh inning made the Phils’ route to the finish line even a little less stressful.

Bohm moving through rehab process 

Phillies manager Rob Thomson said pregame that Alec Bohm will “hopefully” be able to return as soon as his 10-day injured list stint ends. The Phils placed Bohm on the IL on Monday with left shoulder inflammation. 

“He’s running,” Thomson said. “He’s going to do some glove work today. Hopefully, tomorrow he’ll start swinging the bat.”

Kemp started his fifth consecutive game at third base without Bohm and went 2 for 4. He’s had an excellent stretch since rejoining the Phillies, going 7 for 20 with two home runs and six RBIs. 

On deck 

The Phils’ Taijuan Walker (4-8, 4.03 ERA) and Kansas City’s Ryan Bergert (2-2, 3.48) will start Saturday night. Aaron Nola (4-8, 6.24 ERA) and Noah Cameron (3.00 ERA) are slated to pitch Sunday afternoon’s series finale.

Once the Royals leave town, the Phillies will embark on their final road trip of 2025, a six-gamer with series against the Dodgers and Diamondbacks. 

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Jett Luchanko Injury Update: Top Flyers Prospect Will Return Soon

(Photo: Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)

Top Philadelphia Flyers center prospect Jett Luchanko will be out for rookie camp, but his return to the ice should be imminent.

According to an update released by the Flyers Thursday, Luchanko, 19, is expected to be ready for the start of training camp next week.

The 2024 first-round pick was, however, held out of Thursday's rookie camp practice session for precautionary reasons, potentially related to the groin injury that held him out of development camp two months earlier.

Luchanko is not expected to play against the New York Rangers in the first rookie series game between the two teams Friday night, which effectively rules him out for the second game Saturday, too.

To that end, defenseman Oliver Bonk, who also didn't participate on the ice at development camp in early July, is also out against the Rangers for Friday night's game. 

It would appear that the Flyers truly are just exercising the most caution to ensure two of their recent first-round picks have every opportunity to compete for an NHL roster spot, starting with training camp next week.

Flyers Brass Not Giving Up On Aleksei KolosovFlyers Brass Not Giving Up On Aleksei KolosovThe Philadelphia Flyers may appear set at the goalie position at the NHL level this year, but anything can happen, and the book isn't closed on prospect Aleksei Kolosov yet.

Luchanko will either have to make the NHL or return to the OHL this season, whereas Bonk will be turning pro and will be closer to home under the watchful eye of the Flyers, whether he's in the NHL or in the AHL with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.

Watch for Luchanko to return to the ice for the Flyers within the week as training camp creeps around the corner.

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Fleury Returning To The Penguins Is A Perfect Finale

Veteran goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury said that the 2024-25 season would be the last of what is surely a Hockey Hall of Fame career. So it came as somewhat of a pleasant surprise Friday when it was announced Fleury was signing a professional tryout offer with the Pittsburgh Penguins – the team with which he won three Stanley Cup championships.

Fleury intends to get one last kick at the can by playing in parts of a Sept. 27 pre-season game against the Columbus Blue Jackets – but no one should take that to mean Fleury will be on Pittsburgh’s roster when the NHL season begins.

Indeed, at 40, Fleury is long past his peak. But his choice of getting some final game action as a Penguin tells you all you need to know about where his heart is – and where he’ll likely be working in an off-ice role if and when he decides to do so.

The Pens are where Fleury had the grand majority of his success, and Pittsburgh has long been Fleury’s home. So it makes complete sense as to why Fleury wants to ride off into the sunset with the Penguins.

In some cases, NHL icons choose to sign a one-day contract with a team before retiring. Doing so Is a low-impact way to say goodbye.

In Fleury’s case, he’s going to get a little bit more of a goodbye than that. Taking the ice against the Blue Jackets will give Fleury one more game to participate in, and when it’s over, he’ll be able to say he went out on his own terms in front of the fans he's spent the most time with during his storied NHL career.

Fleury told The Athletic at the World Championship, where he reunited with Sidney Crosby, that his age has caught up to him, and he really felt it the morning after a game. So if you think there's some sliver of potential that he will return to the NHL full-time this season and give it another go, don't lose sleep over it. He won't be the solution to any goaltending issues by stepping in the crease himself.

But the good-natured Fleury earned legions of fans – in Pittsburgh. Vegas, Chicago and Minnesota, where he spent his last season – because he was always smiling, always finding the joy in the sport and always a terrific teammate. He did that from his first day until his last.

Marc-Andre Fleury To Return To The Pittsburgh Penguins For One Last GameMarc-Andre Fleury To Return To The Pittsburgh Penguins For One Last GameMarc-Andre Fleury is playing one last game with the Pittsburgh Penguins this pre-season.

There was no artifice, no tactical moves to get people on his side. He did that just by being his authentic self. So no one begrudges him for signing a PTO and suiting up one final time. Fleury has earned that right, and fans at that pre-season game in Pittsburgh will get a special treat on what will undoubtedly be an emotional night for Fleury and his friends, family and fans.

He’s been a dynamic netminder, a fantastic ambassador for the game and a joy to watch. When you look at everything you want a player to be – a role model, a difference-maker and an amazing teammate – Fleury checks all those boxes.

In fact, he's the type of person any team should want after his playing career as well. Whether he can impart his wisdom and advice on other netminders or become a team ambassador of some sort, Fleury has plenty of ways to be an effective part of the coaching or management crew if he wants to.

And if he does get a job to create a new chapter of his hockey life, it would be hard to imagine him being anywhere else than with the Penguins.

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.

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Brett Murray, Daniel Walcott, And Josh Lopina Sign PTOs

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed Brett Murray to a PTO and the Florida Panthers have signed Daniel Walcott and Josh Lopina professional tryouts, per Frank Seravalli. 

Murray notched 27 goals and 49 points in 66 games with the Rochester Americans last season, finishing second on the team in both categories.

The 27-year-old has 206 points in 325 career AHL games and six points in 26 career NHL games. 

A fourth round selection of the Buffalo Sabres in 2016, Murray would be a great veteran addition to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and could play NHL games for the Pittsburgh Penguins if needed.

Walcott had four goals and 12 points in 61 games with the Syracuse Crunch last season.

A respected leader, the 31-year-old served as an assistant captain with the Crunch for eight seasons and won the AHL's Yanick Dupré Memorial Award for his involvement in the community in 2024. 

A fifth round selection of the New York Rangers in 2014, Walcott has 147 points and 568 penalty minutes in 495 career AHL games and is pointless in one career NHL game with the Tampa Bay Lightning. 

Lopina recorded three goals and 13 points in 62 games with the San Diego Gulls last season.

A fourth round selection of the Anaheim Ducks in 2021, he has accumulated 44 points in 203 career AHL games. 

Murray and Walcott were named on our top remaining AHL free agents list earlier this week. 

Check out our AHL to KHL signing tracker and AHL Free Agency signing tracker.  

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Sabres Sign Georgiev Due To Looming Concerns Of Luukkonen’s Injury Status

The Buffalo Sabres appeared to have well-stocked shelves in goal, as the signing of veteran Alex Lyon in July added a third goalie with NHL experience alongside Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Devon Levi, but on Thursday the club added another netminder to the fold, as the Sabres signed Alexandar Georgiev to a one-year, one way deal for $825,000. 

The 29-year-old Bulgarian is an eight-year veteran, signed as an undrafted free agent by the Rangers out of the Finnish SM-Liiga in 2017 and made his NHL debut with New York in his first season in North America. Georgiev served as the backup for Henrik Lundqvist and Igor Shesterkin on Broadway for five seasons before being dealt to Colorado in the summer of 2022. 

Georgiev was acquired by the Avalanche to be their primary starter and in his first season with Colorado made a career-high 62 starts, and set marks for wins (40), goals-against (2.51), save percentage (.919) and shutouts (6), but the following season he was overworked by head coach Jared Bednar early in the season (starting 33 games in the first half), leading to plummeting numbers and a loss of confidence from the Avs organization. 

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After a woeful start of the season (8-7-0, 3.38 GAA, .874 save %), Colorado dispatched Georgiev in December to San Jose in a deal for Mackenzie Blackwood, where he served as the workhorse for a rebuilding Sharks club. 

The signing raised questions regarding the Sabres goaltending situation. Lyon was signed to a two-year contract, presumably to be the backup for Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. Youngster Devon Levi (who also signed a two-year extension in July) has played mostly in AHL Rochester since being sent down in January 2024, when Luukkonen became the primary starter. 

After a strong second half, the Sabres signed the big Finn to a five-year contract extension, but last season he regressed significantly, going .500 (24-24-5), with a 3.20 GAA and sub .900 save %, which led to head coach Lindy Ruff using backup James Reimer heavily in the last month. There were no indications at the time that Luukkonen’s performance or lack of action was related to an injury. 

In Friday’s Buffalo News, Rachel Lenzi reported from an NHL source that the signing of Georgiev was precipitated by an unspecified injury to Luukkonen. The injury was described as a "tweak" and no length of time was given for a potential return for Luukkonen. The 26-year-old has an extensive injury history, with hip surgery in 2021, and ankle surgery at the end of the 2022-23 season, but he has not had anything of a serious or lengthy nature the last two years. 

After the signing of Lyon, it was expected that Levi was destined to start the season with the Amerks, sharing duties with first-year pros Scott Ratzlaff and Topias Leinonen, but Luukkonen’s injury status and the addition of Georgiev have clouded the Sabres situation between the pipes.

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Two-start pitchers: Paul Skenes leads a plethora of scintillating options for the week of September 15

Hello and welcome to the 24th installment of our weekly two-start pitcher article for the 2025 MLB season.

I'll be here every Friday to highlight some of the best two-start pitcher options in fantasy baseball leagues for the upcoming week, as well as some streaming options to keep in mind.

Thinking ahead with your weekly strategy can give you an advantage on the waiver wire and hopefully be a difference-maker in the standings at the end of the season.

It's getting to crunch time with only a few weeks remaining. The decisions that you make now could wind up making or breaking your entire season. Now is the time to really dig in and make sure we're optimizing our rosters as well as possible.

This is a living document, so we'll update the options below as the weekend moves along.

Before we get into it, we'll start with a couple of notes on situations that may be unresolved or teams that may not have a two-start pitcher lined up for the upcoming week:

Someone on the Red Sox is likely to make two starts next week, but as of Friday morning we’re still not entirely sure who that will be yet. Rookie right-hander Connelly Early was brilliant in his MLB debut last week and has earned another start for the Red Sox, but manager Alex Cora wouldn’t commit to when exactly that next start would come. He could stay as part of the regular five-man rotation and start on Monday – in which case he would get the two-start week (vs. Athletics, @ Rays). That would make him a strong streaming option in all leagues. It’s also possible that Payton Tolle stays on regular rest and starts on Monday, in which case he makes for one of the top overall options on the board next week. We’ll monitor the situation and update here if we gain any additional clarification.

As of now, it doesn’t appear as though anyone on the Guardians will make two starts next week. They have been rolling with a six-man rotation the past couple of trips through, though that could change with an off-day on their schedule on Monday. If that happens, they may skip Joey Cantillo, which would then set up Logan Allen for a two-start week (@ Tigers, @ Twins). We’ll monitor the situation through the weekend and keep you updated if anything changes.

We’re still waiting on clarity on what the Royals plan to do on Tuesday. They went with a bullpen day started by Jonathan Bowlan the last time this spot in the rotation came through. They could opt to use Monday’s off-day to move the rest of the rotation up, which would give Stephen Kolek a two-start week (vs. Mariners, vs. Blue Jays), in which case that would make him an intriguing streaming option. It’s also at least in the realm of possibility that Cole Ragans could be deemed ready to rejoin the rotation by then, or at some point during the week, which could throw things into even more flux. Stay tuned.

The Dodgers are still rolling with a six-man rotation, but they’re lined up for seven games this coming week so it’s possible that someone will double. Who that is, remains to be seen. Shohei Ohtani was pushed back a couple of days and will start early next week against the Phillies. If “early next week” ends up being Monday, then he’ll go twice (vs. Phillies, vs. Giants) If it’s Tuesday instead, Emmet Sheehan would wind up with the double dip instead. Sheehan would make for a strong play in that instance. If Ohtani gets two starts, it comes down to league format and team needs whether or not his two starts could be more valuable than his offensive contributions. We’ll update if we get any additional clarity on the situation.

The Mets are running with a full six-man rotation right now, so with six games on the docket for next week none of their intriguing hurlers are going to toe the slab twice. We’ll update below if anything changes over the weekend.

It sounds like the Phillies will go with a six-man rotation for the time being following the addition of Walker Buehler on Friday. That means that no one will line up for a two-start week next week. If Buehler gets lit up on Friday and it turns into just a spot start, that could free up Ranger Suarez to get a two-start week (@ Dodgers, @ Diamondbacks).

Without further ado, let's dig into the options for the week of September 15.

Going Twice…

Note: Probable pitchers as of September 12 and are subject to change.

American League

Strong Plays

Carlos Rodón, Yankees, LHP (@ Twins, @ Orioles)

The 32-year-old southpaw is having another terrific season for the Yankees, going 16-8 with a 3.11 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and a 186/70 K/BB ratio over 176 1/3 innings through his first 30 starts. He should be locked into all fantasy lineups each and every week, so there’s no decision to be made with this one. Enjoy the extra production from the added volume of a two-start week.

Logan Gilbert, Mariners, RHP (@ Royals, @ Astros)

Somehow, Gilbert has only tallied four victories through his first 22 starts on the season despite a strong 3.54 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and a 159/28 K/BB ratio over 114 1/3 innings. Look for the correction to start this week as I would be shocked if he didn’t tally a win in at least one of these spots. He should be started in all fantasy leagues every week regardless of matchups, but this two-step is shaping up to be especially productive for Gilbert.

Kevin Gausman, Blue Jays, RHP (@ Rays, @ Royals)

Gausman has returned to being a force to be reckoned with on the mound. He’s coming off of his strongest start of the season – a complete game shutout with nine strikeouts against the Astros. That’s after eight innings of one-run ball in a dominant victory over the Yankees. He’s definitely at the top of his game right now and should be started against any and all opponents. Enjoy the extra production from the two-start week.

Jason Alexander, Astros, RHP (vs. Rangers, vs. Mariners)

During a time in which the Astors have needed it most, Alexander has really come through and become a rock in the middle of their starting rotation. Over his last last eight starts, the 32-year-old hurler has compiled a 2.36 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and a 41/11 K/BB ratio across 45 2/3 innings. That’s elite production. Now he gets to battle two divisional foes at home while the Astros are battling for playoff seeding. Ignore the name and what you think you have seen from Alexander in the past, he definitely deserves to be rostered and started in leagues of all sizes for this juicy two-start week.

Ryan Pepiot, Rays, RHP (vs. Blue Jays, vs. Red Sox)

Pepiot is quietly having a very strong season in the Rays’ rotation, going 11-10 with a 3.59 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and a 161/57 K/BB ratio over 163 innings through his first 29 starts. He has pitched especially well as of late, firing five scoreless innings in each of his last three starts. The matchups are tough this week, battling two of the better teams in the American League at home at Steinbrenner Field, but Pepiot has done enough this season to earn the trust of fantasy managers. Keep rolling with him.

Decent Plays

Jeffrey Springs, Athletics, LHP (@ Red Sox, @ Pirates)

The 32-year-old southpaw has been a nice addition to the Athletics’ rotation this season, compiling a 4.28 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and a 132/49 K/BB ratio across 162 frames. He has had a couple of rough outings in the past month though – including a start against the Red Sox his last time out where he gave up five runs on eight hits over five innings. Fortunately, both of his starts this week will be one the road – away from the bandbox that is Sutter Health Park. He also gets to battle the Pirates to finish the week, which is as good of a matchup as you can get these days. Springs should be started in all league sizes for the upcoming week.

Tyler Wells, Orioles, RHP (@ White Sox, vs. Yankees)

So far, so good for Wells in his return from the injured list. Through his first two starts he holds an impressive 2.31 ERA, 0.60 WHIP and a 10/1 K/BB ratio over 11 2/3 innings. Now he gets to tangle with the White Sox – who surprisingly have the best record in all of baseball since August 31. After that he’ll have to take on the vaunted Yankees’ offense. Admittedly the matchups aren’t great and invite in more ratio risk than we’re looking for at this stage of the season, but Wells is widely available in many fantasy leagues and still makes for a decent streaming option. He’s certainly worth a look in 15-teamers and I’d consider rolling him out there in 12’s as well if I needed volume to make up ground in wins and strikeouts.

Sean Burke, White Sox, RHP (vs. Orioles, vs. Padres)

I’m not entirely sure what to expect from Sean Burke at this point. It feels like the White Sox are trying to limit his innings a bit as he has already thrown a career-high 134 2/3 between the White Sox and Triple-A Charlotte. Despite pitching decently and allowing three runs or fewer in each of his last six appearances, he has made it through five innings only once during that stretch. He has been generating plenty of strikeouts though, and with the added volume of a two-start week he could still be worth a look as a streaming play for that reason alone. I’d like it much better if he were working behind an opener, but there’s still viability to using him in 15-teamers for the upcoming week.

Jack Flaherty, Tigers, RHP (vs. Guardians, vs. Braves)

Flaherty has been a very frustrating player to roster for fantasy purposes this season. He has been terrific against good teams – as evidenced by his five shutout innings with seven strikeouts in a victory over the Yankees in New York his last time out – and he has been inexplicably destroyed by bad teams throughout the season. The strikeouts have been there regardless, so at least we can count on that in excess with a two-start week on tap. Both of the opponents are solid, and the matchup against the Guardians is a key battle in the division, so I’d lean toward the good version of Flaherty showing up this week. Either way, I think you have to roll with him and hope for the best.

Cam Schlittler, Yankees, RHP (@ Twins, @ Orioles)

Aside from one real disastrous outing, Schlittler has been terrific through his first 11 big league starts – posting a 3.05 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and a 63/24 K/BB ratio over 56 innings of work. He has to go on the road twice during his two-start week, but neither opponent is anyone that we should be worrying much about at this stage. He’s always a threat to earn a victory while pitching for the Yankees and makes for a strong start in all league sizes.

Jack Leiter, Rangers, RHP (@ Astros, vs. Marlins)

Leiter is really coming into his own in the Rangers’ rotation this season, compiling a 3.81 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and a 130/64 K/BB ratio over 132 1/3 innings through his first 26 starts. The matchup against the Astros in Houston to start the week looks tough, but it’s balanced out by a home start against the Marlins to finish things out on Sunday. On paper, he looks like a very solid play this week and should be started in leagues of all sizes.

José Berríos, Blue Jays, RHP (@ Rays, @ Royals)

Slow and steady wins the race. That’s exactly what Berríos has been for the Blue Jays this season. He has posted a solid 3.99 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and a 135/52 K/BB ratio over 160 innings on the season. Given his limitations in the strikeout department, he’s a better option in weeks in which he makes two starts, making him a perfectly acceptable play for this upcoming road two-step.

At Your Own Risk

Kyle Hendricks, Angels, RHP (@ Brewers, @ Rockies)

Can you really trust Kyle Hendricks at the most important time of the season for a two-start week at the Brewers and at Coors Field? Yikes. It all comes down to how badly you need the volume. Even in a two-start week he’s unlikely to help in the strikeout department, so this would have to purely be a wins play – hoping that he can beat the Rockies in Colorado on Sunday. If a dip in ratios doesn’t concern you and you need to pull out all the stops to attack wins, then I suppose I could squint and see the reasoning here.

Simeon Woods Richardson, Twins, RHP (vs. Yankees, vs. Guardians)

I’m just having a difficult time seeing the upside to using Woods Richardson for this upcoming two-start week. He hasn’t pitched particularly well this season. He certainly hasn’t pitched well recently, with a 6.75 ERA and 1.59 WHIP over 21 1/3 innings in his last five starts. He’s taking on two strong opponents and won’t be likely to earn a victory. If you’re absolutely desperate for strikeouts and just need healthy bodies to stream, I suppose he could be worth a look. Otherwise, I would stay away from this one.

National League

Strong Plays

Paul Skenes, Pirates, RHP (vs. Cubs, vs. Athletics)

There’s not a whole lot more than can be said about Skenes. He’s an absolute stud. Despite an underwhelming 10-9 record, the 23-year-old right-hander holds an outstanding 1.92 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and a 203/39 K/BB ratio over 178 innings in his first 30 starts on the season. He’ll continue that dominance this week against the Cubs and Athletics – both in the friendly confines of PNC Park – as he strengthens his resume for the National League Cy Young award. He’s the top overall play on the board this week.

Cade Horton, Cubs, RHP (@ Pirates, @ Reds)

What Cade Horton has been able to do in his rookie campaign for the Cubs has been pretty remarkable. The 24-year-old hurler has been thrust into a significant role in the team’s rotation due to a plethora of injuries and not only has he held his own, he has been one of the best pitchers in the National League since his arrival. Over his first 21 appearances (20 starts), he’s 10-4 with a 2.70 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and an 89/32 K/BB ratio across 110 innings. The only thing that’s slightly lacking for fantasy purposes is the strikeouts, but with the pristine ratios and solid victory total, we’ll absolutely take that trade off. Look for that dominance to continue this week with a pair of divisional matchups against the Pirates and Reds. Horton looks like one of the best options on the entire board for the upcoming week and should be started in 100 percent of leagues.

Robbie Ray, Giants, LHP (@ Diamondbacks, @ Dodgers)

We certainly don’t love the matchups having to go to Arizona to take on the Diamondbacks and then go to Los Angeles to battle the Dodgers, but there’s zero reason that fantasy managers should be sitting Robbie Ray in any matchup. The star southpaw holds a terrific 3.32 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and a 176/67 K/BB ratio over 173 2/3 innings on the season. Even if we’re taking on more ratio risk than we usually get from Ray, the massive strikeout upside more than offsets it. He should be locked and loaded in all fantasy lineups.

Andrew Abbott, Reds, LHP (@ Cardinals, vs. Cubs)

The 26-year-old southpaw has blossomed into an upper-echelon starter for the Reds this season, compiling a stellar 2.79 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and a 136/42 K/BB ratio across 151 2/3 innings in 26 starts. He has had a couple of hiccups of late with disastrous outings against the Mets and Diamondbacks but got back on track with an absolute gem against the Padres in San Diego his last time out. He’s a very strong option once again for his upcoming two-start week and should be an easy start in all formats.

Jose Quintana, Brewers, LHP (vs. Angels, @ Cardinals)

Quintana has been a key cog in the Brewers’ rotation this season, going 11-6 with a 3.88 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and an 87/127 2/3 innings. His biggest drawback from a fantasy perspective is the lack of strikeouts, but that’s mitigated with the extra volume from a two-start week. The veteran left-hander also draws a pair of premium matchups against the Angels and Cardinals. It can be hard to trust him at times, but Quintana deserves to be considered a strong play this week and should be started in all league sizes.

Michael King, Padres, RHP (@ Mets, @ White Sox)

When King has been healthy enough to take the mound this season, he has been phenomenal – registering a 2.87 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and a 67/20 K/BB ratio over 62 2/3 innings in his first 12 starts. As long as he’s taking the mound, there’s zero reason to expect anything less at the moment. He should be able to add to his win total this week while providing strong ratios and at least double-digit strikeouts over his two starts.

Decent Plays

Eury Pérez, Marlins, RHP (@ Rockies, @ Rangers)

We continue to see the good and the bad of Pérez as he struggles to find consistency in his first season back from Tommy John surgery. Even when he’s off though, he’s usually a reliable source of strikeouts for fantasy managers. He’s also in a good position to earn at least one victory this week taking on the Rockies and Rangers. There’s ratio risk to be had here for sure, but I’d be comfortable rolling the dice on the Marlins’ right-hander in all league sizes this week.

Jameson Taillon, Cubs, RHP (@ Pirates, @ Reds)

Taillon hasn’t shown any signs of rust since returning from the injured list, posting a 2.35 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and a 9/3 K/BB ratio over 15 1/3 innings in three starts since being activated on August 19. He gets a premium matchup against the Pirates in Pittsburgh to start the week before finishing with a tougher draw against the Reds in Cincinnati. Taillon is a good bet to earn a victory in that first start and he should continue to deliver useable ratios. He makes for a worthwhile streaming option in any leagues where he may still be available.

Zac Gallen, Diamondbacks, RHP (vs. Giants, vs. Phillies)

While it has been a very disappointing season overall for the 30-year-old right-hander, we have at least seen some signs lately that his days of fantasy relevancy aren’t completely behind him. Over his last eight starts he sports a 2.83 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and a 36/13 K/BB ratio across 47 2/3 innings, and that includes a rough one against the Giants in San Francisco his last time out. The matchups aren’t great this week, but he gets the ball at home twice and should be able to deliver quality results once again. He’s an easy start for me in all formats.

Spencer Strider, Braves, RHP (@ Nationals, @ Tigers)

It feels like we’re writing up Strider in this space every week lately, then something inevitably happens and the Braves shift their rotation around or he gets pushed back a day or two and his two-start week gets pushed with it. He’s once again lined up to take the ball twice, and the better of the two matchups comes in the front half of the week, so if it does get moved again at least you avoid the tougher half. It’s hard to call his 2025 season anything other than a disaster at this stage, as Strider sits at 5-13 with a 4.86 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and a 114/44 K/BB ratio across 107 1/3 innings in 20 starts. After a couple of absolutely brutal outings we have seen him right the ship a bit recently, allowing three runs or fewer in each of his last three starts. There’s ratio risk here, sure, but given the strong matchup, strikeout upside and recent performance, I’d still be comfortable trotting him out there in both 15- and 12-team formats for the upcoming week.

Zack Littell, Reds, RHP (@ Cardinals, vs. Cubs)

Littell has done a nice job overall on the season, posting a 3.78 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and a 120/29 K/BB ratio over 171 1/3 innings in 29 starts between the Rays and Reds. His diminished strikeout rate if offset by the added volume of a second start next week, making him a strong streaming option in all leagues. The matchup against the Cardinals in St. Louis to start the week looks especially ripe for the picking. He can be started with confidence in all leagues.

Matthew Liberatore, Cardinals, LHP (vs. Reds, vs. Brewers)

Liberatore has had middling results through his first 27 starts on the season, posting a 4.35 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and a 110/38 K/BB ratio over 140 2/3 innings of work. He was hit hard his last time out against the Mariners and could be running into a bit of a wall late in the season due to fatigue. Both of this week’s matchups will come at home, but they’re both against divisional foes who are very familiar with him – and both have very strong offenses. If you need volume to chase wins and strikeouts and can handle the possibility of a ratio hit, then Liberatore is in play this week.

At Your Own Risk

Kyle Freeland, Rockies, LHP (vs. Marlins, vs. Angels)

Never Rockies. It’s that simple. Especially never Rockies when it’s two starts at Coors Field, regardless of the opponents. It’s not like Freeland has been pitching well this season either, as he’s 4-15 with a 4.97 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and a 112/35 K/BB ratio over 145 innings. The only exception is if ratios are of absolutely no concern to you at this point in the season and you desperately need volume to make up ground in wins and strikeouts. If that’s the case, then fire away and good luck.

Carson Seymour, Giants, RHP (@ Diamondbacks, @ Dodgers)

Seymour has struggled through his first 13 appearances (three starts) at the big league level, registering a 5.23 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and a 21/12 K/BB ratio over 31 innings of work. In a neutral set of matchups, maybe we could find a way to have some interest here, but having to take on two of the best offenses in the National League on the road leaves little room for upside. He’s an easy pass for me this week.

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Canadiens: Rookies Getting Ready For Their Big Day

For a second day in a row, Laval Rocket coach Pascal Vincent worked the Montreal Canadiens' rookies hard. On Thursday, his focus was on defense, but on Friday, the coaching staff had moved on to the offensive side of the game.

Just like the day before, Vincent and his assistant ran various drills that lasted between five and seven minutes and simulated game situations. There were some tow-on-two battles, but also some four-on-twos in which focus was put on net front battles.

Canadiens: Demidov Impresses Media and Teammates Alike
Canadiens: What The Rookies Had To Say On Day One
Canadiens: Rookies Put Through Challenging First Practice

Some work was also done on the team’s transition game, with puck retrieval, first-pass, and quick transition to the other forward. Once again, Oliver Kapanen was centered by Florian Xhekaj on one side and Ivan Demidov on the other; the three should form the Canadiens’ top line this weekend and have already shown signs of chemistry.

While Xhekaj has shown that he is talented since being drafted by the Canadiens, the physical and gritty side of his game may very well be part of the reason why he’ll be skating alongside the Russian wonder this weekend—an insurance policy against an opponent taking liberties with the organization’s most prized prospect.

Judging by the power play drills that took place on Friday morning, the line will stick together with the man-advantage and be joined by Owen Beck and David Reinbacher. As for the second unit, it will feature Adam Engstrom, Vinzenz Rohrer, Alex Tuck, Tyler Thorpe, and Filip Mesar.

Speaking about Mesar, he told the media yesterday that he was asked to play with more grit in his exit meeting last season and added today that he wanted to fight at least once this season. When coach Vincent was asked about that, he said, “Who? Mesar? That’s not what we meant by grit, but if he wants to do it…” This is a reminder that things can sometimes get lost in translation for those kids and that they often have to learn to live and work in a second language, which certainly adds to the challenge of making the NHL.

As practice was winding down, the members of the first power play unit spent some time just circulating the pucks from one another, and their opponents had better thread carefully; they do not want to give that unit too much ice time.

After they were done circulating the puck, Xhekaj parked himself in front of the net and worked on his deflection skills, as we’ve seen Brendan Gallagher do numerous times in practice over the years. With Xhekaj’s improved frame, he should cause a few headaches to both goaltenders and defensemen.

Vincent confirmed that goaltender Jacob Fowler would be getting the start against the Winnipeg Jets tomorrow night in the Prospect Showdown. The Jets will be icing a good roster highlight with Brayden Yager, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ first-round pick (14th overall) at the 2023 draft, whom they obtained for disgruntled forward Rutger McGroarty and the Jets’ own first-round pick that year, Colby Barlow.

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NHL Calder Trophy Tracker: Canadiens' Demidov Leads Pre-Training Camp Rookie Race

This year's NHL Calder Trophy race will be fun, and we're getting closer to the start line.

Training camps for every NHL team will be getting underway soon as we’ve begun to see players back on the ice for individual workouts or player-led practices. Rookie camps and tournaments are beginning as well.

With that, we will soon get a clearer picture of which rookies will be latching onto a roster spot and given the chance to play in the NHL this season.

There will be players just drafted this summer who get a shot, such as Michael Misa or Matthew Schaefer. Others have had a taste of NHL action already, such as Jimmy Snuggerud and Ivan Demidov.

This season will have some high-end rookies that competing for the 2026 Calder Trophy as the NHL’s rookie of the year. While Demidov may be the favorite coming into the beginning of a new season, he will have fierce competition.

It is time for to kick off a new season of the Calder Trophy Tracker. While this season opener isn't a true numbered ranking, let’s look at some of the top rookies heading into this upcoming season and their chances of winning the Calder.

Ivan Demidov (David Kirouac-Imagn Images)

The Favorite

Ivan Demidov, RW, Montreal Canadiens

Coming into the year, the hype around the Russian rookie in Montreal will be as high as we’ve seen from any player in recent years. There is good reason for it.

Demidov joined the team last last season as they were fighting for a playoff spot, and his debut was electric. He was the team’s most effective offensive player, and he looked like the difference-making talent they hoped he’d become.

While there were some ups and downs, the highs of Demidov’s game in Montreal were tantalizing. His dynamic puck skill, shifty mobility and incredible passing vision were all high-end tools at the NHL level immediately.

Demidov will be relied upon in all offensive situations, featured prominently on the power play and given plenty of offensive zone starts at even strength. He’s the favorite for a reason, and he will be very fun to watch when the season starts.

BetMGM Calder odds: 2.80 (+180)

The Top Tier

Michael Misa, C/W, San Jose Sharks

While he’s not guaranteed to make the Sharks lineup, Misa should find his way into the Calder conversation if he makes the team. He signed his entry-level contract this week.

He tore up the OHL last season, and going back there might not challenge him enough to progress his development.

Misa is an intelligent 200-foot player who is a very skilled dual threat offensive player. If he does step into the lineup, the reality is that he’s playing in the top six and working his way toward being an impact piece as a rookie.

BetMGM Calder odds: 14.00 (+1,300)

Ryan Leonard, RW, Washington Capitals

While his offense wasn’t always standing out when he stepped into the NHL late last season, his presence was constantly felt as he brought his bull-in-a-china-shop play style to the league.

Leonard throws big hits, drives to the net with his shoulder down and works his tail off in the corners. His offense should start to pop now that he’s seen what the NHL has to offer in a short stint and he’s had a summer to train.

BetMGM Calder odds: 23.00 (+2,200)

Zeev Buium, D, Minnesota Wild

Buium is a cerebral two-way defender who should find himself in opportune positions to put up points. The Wild don't have another defenseman quite as skilled as Buium.

Although he's a bit undersized, Buium uses his skating to defend at a high level, which helps him get the puck back on his stick. His puck-moving in transition and in the offensive zone are high end as well. He should find himself playing top four minutes by the end of the season.

BetMGM Calder odds: 13.00 (+1,200)

Zayne Parekh, D, Calgary Flames

If the Flames keep Zayne Parekh on the NHL roster for all of this season, he will be put in a position to succeed, which means ample power-play time and a strong lean toward offensive zone starts.

Parekh is a creator who loves to get involved offensively, and he certainly has the tools to improve a power play today. He is a lethal passer and a dangerous shooter in his own right. He will likely have more ups and downs than a typical rookie defender in his own zone, but his offensive game should cover it up.

BetMGM Calder odds: 21.00 (+2,000)

Yaroslav Askarov (David Kirouac-Imagn Images)

The Wild Cards

Yaroslav Askarov, G, San Jose Sharks

With an opportunity to stay in the NHL full-time this season, Askarov will try to provide steady goaltending while the young squad in front of him works through growing pains.

Askarov could play great this season, but his numbers may not tell the full story, and that could hold him back from being a true Calder contender. If he gets his stats to a respectable point (.910 save percentage?) he could be a shoe-in for a finalist nod as a netminder who played well despite the surroundings.

BetMGM Calder odds: 26.00 (+2,500)

Alexander Nikishin, D, Carolina Hurricanes

After putting up some gaudy numbers in the KHL for a young defender and collecting plenty of accolades along the way, Nikishin will look to bring his top game to North America.

The KHL is a bit of a different game stylistically, and the "shoot it hard from the point" style of offense doesn’t always work in the NHL. Nikishin must adapt a bit and bring a bit more fluidity and puck-moving to try to make up for some of the lost offense as a shooter. If he translates his game seamlessly, watch out.

BetMGM Calder odds: 17.00 (+1,600)

Matthew Schaefer, D, New York Islanders

The first overall pick usually ends up higher on this list, but we just don’t fully know what we’re going to get from Schaefer, as fantastic as he is.

His mobility, puck skill and two-way prowess are all enviable – that's why he went first overall. What is a concern though is how he will hold up over a full NHL season.

After playing in fewer than 30 games across all competition last year, making the jump to the NHL would be tough, but if anyone is going to do it, it could be Schaefer.

Jimmy Snuggerud (Connor Hamilton-Imagn Images)

The Sleepers

Jimmy Snuggerud, RW, St. Louis Blues

Snuggerud stepped into the lineup and scored immediately for the Blues. He is an excellent complementary piece, and he could be among the higher-scoring rookies if given the opportunity in the top six.

Snuggerud is a really steady offensive player who plays a tactical game.

BetMGM Calder odds: 18.00 (+1,700)

Isaac Howard, LW, Edmonton Oilers

Howard's speed and dual-threat ability could make him an excellent running mate for one of the Oilers' two-headed monsters down the middle. If he can find a role with Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, we could see a massive season for Howard because he’d be one of the more skilled linemates either has had recently.

BetMGM Calder odds: 16.00 (+1,500)

Artyom Levshunov, D, Chicago Blackhawks

Levshunov stepped into the lineup for a bit last season and looked OK. He had some really solid moments in the AHL as well.

Levshunov is a raw prospect, and that may result in some ups and downs, but he’s always found a way to make an impact. He could be a sneaky but solid long shot in the top rookie race.

BetMGM Calder odds: 61.00 (+6,000)

Gabe Perreault, RW, New York Rangers

Everywhere Perreault has played, he’s been a steady goal-scorer. Now, he’s taking the step into pro hockey, and the Rangers hope he can bolster their offensive attack.

Perreault is the ultimate play-connector who can advance play in transition or in the offensive zone. If he can find the right fit, he could be one of the top-scoring rookies.

BetMGM Calder odds: 36.00 (+3,500)

Bradly Nadeau, C/W, Carolina Hurricanes

Playing in the AHL last year, Nadeau was an instant impact player, and he continued to improve as the year went on.

He had a cup of coffee in the NHL and looked solid in the two games he played. The next step is playing a smart, high-paced offensive game in the NHL, and if he can, he could be the ultimate sleeper for this year’s Calder.

BetMGM Calder odds: 67.00 (+6,600)

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Adam Silver gets heat for saying NBA 'a highlights-based sport' fans can see on Instagram, TikTok

Adam Silver would like that phrasing back.

Silver has faced criticism in recent days for a quote that came off as tone deaf to fans. When asked on Wednesday about the expense of being an NBA fan — from the cost of attending games to the need for fans to subscribe to multiple streaming services to watch all their team's games — the quote pulled out of Silver's answer was cold.

"There's a huge amount of our content that people essentially consume for free. This is very much a highlights-based sport, so Instagram, TikTok, Twitter [now X]... YouTube, another example that is advertising based that consumers can consume," Silver said.

Silver misses the mark in a couple of places in that clip. First, there's the "Hey fans, if you can't afford the streaming services just go to social media" vibe that is not what fans want to hear. Second, the NBA just secured a massive new television deal because of its value to streaming services; telling fans they can look elsewhere is not what the league's partners want to hear.

But Silver's comment was not nearly as bad as it was made out to be. Mark Cuban even defended him.

First, Silver was not wrong — for a younger generation of fans, highlights on social media (and clips of debate about the league) is how they consume the NBA. They are less likely to sit down in front of a television (or at a bar) to watch regular season NBA games. The league must adapt to ensure it still reaches those fans.

Also, Silver's comments about the cost are not so harsh when read in the full context of his response. Silver is not someone who speaks in clips, he gives long, thoughtful answers, ones often couched in legal phrases (he is a lawyer, after all). In the full quote, Silver's answer doesn't sound cold.

"[The reporter] took all the different streaming services and added them up and what those costs would be. I look at it a little bit differently, because most people can only consume so many games," Silver said. "By way of one example, in these new media deals, we're going from essentially 15 exposures on broadcast television to 75. So to the extent someone wants to put little rabbit ears on their television, you can still get 75 marquee games in essence for free in the marketplace...

"Because of the disruption in the regional sports network business — I never would have predicted this was coming 10 years ago — but a lot of our local games are moving back to broadcast television. In fact, we have more games on broadcast television locally than we've had anytime in recent history."

Streaming services also appear to be the future of the broadcast industry, which is why NBC will have games on Peacock — every game nationally broadcast on NBC will also be streamed on Peacock, plus there will be exclusive Monday night games on Peacock. The value the NBA provides in bringing in viewers is why Amazon Prime will also carry games.

The NBA's larger concern is helping viewers know where to tune in to watch games on a given night.

Of course, fans can always still catch the highlights on TikTok.

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Michael Soroka nears return to the Cubs after rehabbing his shoulder injury

CHICAGO — Michael Soroka is on his way back to the Chicago Cubs after being sidelined by a shoulder strain.

Soroka pitched 2 1/3 innings of one-run ball in a rehab appearance with Triple-A Iowa. His fastball was clocked as high as 96.6 mph — a significant improvement on his velocity right before his injury.

“He’ll be activated with us for his next outing,” manager Craig Counsell said before a game against Tampa Bay. “We’ll see on the date right now.”

Soroka was acquired in a trade deadline deal with Washington. The right-hander started on Aug. 4 against Cincinnati and pitched two innings in his first appearance with Chicago before departing with his shoulder issue.

The 28-year-old Soroka is 3-8 with a 4.86 ERA in 17 starts this season, but he could work out of the bullpen when he returns to the Cubs.

Counsell also said Daniel Palencia played catch before the series opener against the Rays. The 25-year-old closer was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder strain.

“It was like diagnostic catch maybe is the way to say it, like let’s play catch to see how it feels,” Counsell said. “We’re hoping it feels good and then we can just keep moving forward.”

Palencia is 1-6 with a 3.00 ERA and a career-high 22 saves in 51 innings over 52 appearances this year. He pitched a total of 43 innings in 37 games over his first two years in the majors.

The Cubs also have All-Star right fielder Kyle Tucker on the IL with a left calf strain. Counsell said he doesn’t think Tucker will be ready to be activated when he is eligible to return.

“I think the symptomatic stuff is the running right now,” Counsell said. “So we’re on a bike. We’re hitting still, throwing. We’re hoping to have a weekend of kind of no symptoms doing any of that. And that’ll lead us back onto the field. And to the running and then go from there.”

Cubs slugger Seiya Suzuki was out of the starting lineup against Tampa Bay because of an illness. Rookie Moisés Ballesteros subbed for Suzuki as the designated hitter.

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Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Luis Severino, Luis Rengifo and Jason Alexander

FANTASY BASEBALL WAIVER WIRE PICKUPS

Luis Severino (SP Athletics): Rostered in 32% of Yahoo leagues

Today’s recommended pickups are really just focused on next week only, and with a road start in Pittsburgh slated for Friday, Severino looks like the best bet of the one-start starters mostly unrostered in Yahoo leagues. That the outing is on the road is big; Severino is 5-2 with a 3.11 ERA in away games this year, compared to 1-9 with a 6.34 ERA in Sacramento. Both of his starts since returning from the IL have come on the road, and he’s allowed three runs while striking out 11 over 10 innings against the Cardinals and Angels.

The opponent is the real reason this looks like a strong play; the Pirates have scored the fewest runs in the leagues. Since the All-Star break, they have the third fewest runs scored and the third worst OPS. They’ll probably be throwing Bubba Chandler against the A’s, and while he could do just about anything, he’s probably only going to pitch about four innings before turning things over to the pen. It’s a situation ripe for a victory.

Luis Rengifo (INF Angels): Rostered in 16% of Yahoo leagues

The Marlins and Angels will face the Rockies in the final two series of the season at Coors Field this weekend. Most Marlins worth experimenting with are already rostered in the majority of leagues, though Otto Lopez wouldn’t be a terrible flier. Still, I’d take a chance on Rengifo first. Yoán Moncada is another option as a one-week pickup.

Rengifo has largely been a bust in his walk year. After averaging a 109 OPS+ and 2.1 WAR from 2022-24, he’s come in at just 76 and 0.4, respectively, in 135 games this year. Still, he has picked it up some in the second half, hitting .257/.333/.382 in 46 games, He’s also 8-for-8 stealing bases after going just 2-for-8 in the first half. That’s what gets him the nod over Lopez and Moncada here. If steals aren’t a priority, Lopez is probably the better choice in the other categories this week.

Jason Alexander (SP Astros): Rostered in 17% of Yahoo leagues

Alexander is the pick here for next week’s best, mostly available two-start pitcher. He’s facing contenders in the Rangers and Mariners, but that hasn’t seemed to pose any problems for him of late; he just pitched seven scoreless innings against the Blue Jays on Wednesday and he gave up a total of three runs in 11 innings in two recent starts against the Yankees.

A 32-year-old journeyman, Alexander’s only MLB action prior to this season came when he posted a 5.40 ERA in 11 starts and seven relief appearances for the Brewers in 2022. He has a 4.19 ERA in 10 starts and five relief appearances for the Astros this season. His low-90s fastball and sinker are well below average, and he’s not someone who should figure into the Astros’ plans for 2026. But for two starts against mediocre offenses this week, he ought to be good for one win and probably not much ERA and WHIP damage.

Waiver Wire Quick Hits

- Of course, with the Rockies having six home games, some of their hitters are worth trying as well. It hurts the likes of Mickey Moniak and Yanquiel Fernández that they’re due to face three lefties, but that makes Jordan Beck (19% rostered), Tyler Freeman (8% rostered) and Kyle Karros (1% rostered) better bets. Beck is hitting .315/.358/.491 at Coors Field this season, and he's been particularly productive against southpaws.

- Those feeling especially adventurous could take a flier on Sean Burke, who showed his best velocity of the season in his return to the majors Wednesday against the Rays. Burke is due to face the Orioles on Monday and Padres on Sunday, both at home. The White Sox have been surprisingly productive offensively of late, so maybe he’ll get a win.