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Victor Wembanyama Picks, Predictions & Best Bets for Spurs vs Knicks Game 4 on June 10

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Victor Wembanyama starred in Game 3, to the chagrin of New York Knicks fans and to the joy of folks who want to see a long series.

If the San Antonio Spurs are going to even the NBA Finals, they likely need more of the same from Wemby.

These Victor Wembanyama odds and NBA picks do not so much doubt Wembanyama’s offense as they expect his defense to be more necessary in Game 4 on Wednesday, June 10.

Victor Wembanyama prop pick for Game 4

Victor Wembanyama best bet: Under 27.5 points (-115 at bet365)

This is not meant as a knock on Victor Wembanyama’s offense. If anything, it is a knock on Karl-Anthony Towns’s offense in Game 3.

Towns was not aggressive in the first New York Knicks’ loss since April. He did not take a 3-pointer in the first three quarters, and removing that threat allowed Wembanyama to expend less energy defensively. No wonder he played his most efficient game of the NBA Finals thus far.

The Knicks coaching staff has undoubtedly pointed out to Towns the compound effect that comes with his offensive reluctance. If they want to put the San Antonio Spurs on the brink, then KAT needs to make Wembanyama stress on defense.

Doing so should cut into Wemby’s offensive output, a reward almost as helpful as every point Towns scores.

Victor Wembanyama same-game parlay

While Wembanyama went 2-for-4 from long range in Game 3 to help spur his 32 points, the most notable number should be that he attempted only four 3-pointers. He has always been more hesitant to shoot from deep when on the road.

He took just five 3-pointers per road game this season, compared to 5.9 per home game.

And that gap has furthered this postseason, Wembanyama now taking 6.4 threes per home game (excluding Game 2 of the first round, when a concussion sidelined him after just 12 minutes) compared to 4.25 per road game (excluding Game 4 of the second round, when an ejection sidelined him after just 12 minutes).

That reluctance should cost Wemby both from deep and in scoring overall.

And it should hold true even though Wembanyama should handle the ball even more. Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox have been a bit too loose with the ball in this series, while the Spurs’ first win came in no small part because Wemby turned over the ball only once in nearly 39 minutes. That helped create six assists.

Putting the ball into Wembanyama’s hands more will help San Antonio in multiple ways, partly simply by protecting the ball.

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Stanley Cup Final, Game 4 – Player of the Game: Jordan Staal

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 09: Jordan Staal #11 of the Carolina Hurricanes scores a goal against Colton Sissons #10 and Carter Hart #79 of the Vegas Golden Knights in the third period of Game Four of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final at T-Mobile Arena on June 09, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In what could be considered a must-win game for the Carolina Hurricanes, heroes, new and old, emerged.

Brandon Bussi, making his first career playoff start in Game 4, turned away 18 of 21 shots to earn the victory. He is the third goalie in the expansion era to make his first career playoff start in the Stanley Cup Final, joining Andrei Vasilevskiy and Jussi Markkanen. Bussi joined a more exclusive club by becoming the third goalie in NHL history to win that first career playoff start in a Stanley Cup Final.

Logan Stankoven, Jackson Blake, and Taylor Hall each returned to the scoresheet and were the best line on the ice. Stankoven and Blake’s goals during the first 3:28 minutes of the game were the Hurricanes’ second-fastest two goals to start a playoff game.

But once again, Jordan Staal was the center of this epic chapter of Hurricanes and hockey history.

The Captain scored twice, including the eventual game-winner with 13:28 to play in regulation. Carolina’s 5-3 victory over Vegas evens the series at two games apiece and returns home-ice advantage to the Canes.

Staal’s first period goal was another history-maker. He is the first player in 44 years, and the fourth player in the expansion era, to score a goal in each of the first four games of a Stanley Cup Final. Staal’s four-game goal streak is tied for the second-longest in franchise history, trailing Stankoven’s record-setting five-game goal streak earlier in the playoffs.

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Staal’s first of the game came on the power play. Much has been said about the size of the Golden Knights, and Staal winning the battle out front demonstrates just how important it is that the big man is on the man advantage. The Canes now have power play goals in three straight games.

True to the pattern of this series, Vegas roared back in the second period, scoring twice to knot the game at 3-3 heading into the third. But for the third straight game, Carolina found another gear after the second intermission.

The decisive sequence came with less than seven minutes in the third. After Vegas turned the puck over on a botched breakout, Seth Jarvis was alone in the slot, had a backhander stopped by Carter Hart, and battled to retrieve his own rebound behind the net versus four Golden Knights. Jarvis worked the puck free to Nikolaj Ehlers, who poked it across the slot to a falling Staal. With a desperate reach, the Captain lifted the puck over Hart’s glove and into the net for what would be the eventual game-winner.

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This goal will be in the Carolina highlight reel from now until eternity. Staal’s determination and desperation epitomized the Canes’ effort for most of the game.

Of course, Staal was not just a factor on the scoresheet. The Hurricanes dominated in the faceoff circle, holding a 57-43 advantage over the Golden Knights. Staal won 12 of 16 faceoffs, with his 75 percent win rate leading all centers in the game.

Staal was matched up against Ivan Barbashev and Jack Eichel for much of the game, and each failed to tally a point.

Perhaps Staal’s only blemish was in the process of a line change during Vegas’s first goal. The Golden Knights did not convert on any of their three power plays, of which Staal was on the kill for each.

Here’s what Sebastian Aho said about Staal on Wednesday morning before departing Las Vegas. Via NHL.com:

In our room, he’s always had his spotlight. He does so much for us. We all know in our room how big of a player he is for us. He’s taken a lot of draws, he’s killing all the penalties, he’s very hard to play against. It’s just his presence; he’s obviously our leader, our captain, and he’s so big. Obviously, now he gets more attention probably from [the media], but like I said, he does so much for us, and he has always gotten that attention from us.

The Hurricanes flew back to Raleigh on Wednesday to prepare for Game 5, set for Thursday, June 11, at 8:00 p.m. at the Lenovo Center.

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Yankees complete sweep of Guardians with 11-hit effort in Wednesday's 8-4 win

The Yankees completed a three-game sweep of the Cleveland Guardians, winning Wednesday's matinee by a score of 8-4.

Here are the takeaways…

-- A big moment came in the top of the sixth, with the game tied 3-3. After Trent Grisham was initially called out on strikes (the call was challenged and overturned), he then laced a ball over the head of Angel Martinez in right, good for a one-out triple. Grisham came around to score on a Jose Caballero sac fly to left, thanks to a great slide into home plate. And the rally would continue from there.

-- Anthony Volpe had a fielding mistake earlier in the game, throwing one away at first base in the third inning on what was ruled a Jose Ramirez infield single. Ramirez advanced to second on the wild throw, but luckily for the Yankees, the Guardians didn’t score in that inning. It was Volpe’s second error since being called up.

But the young shortstop made up for it in the bottom of the sixth, roping a double to left to put the Yankees up 5-3. Paul Goldschmidt followed up with another RBI hit to right to extend the lead to three runs.

--Carlos Rodon, who owned a 2.88 ERA coming into the game, allowed a leadoff home run to Martinez, who smoked the second pitch of the game 406 feet for a solo shot. But from there he was fairly solid on the bump.

Rodon allowed two more earned runs in the fourth after walking the first two batters, but he ended up turning in a quality start. The lefty went six innings, allowing three earned runs on four hits with seven strikeouts and three walks.

-- Jazz Chisholm Jr. had another big hit against a lefty, roping a two-run triple to right in the second inning off of Guardians starter Parker Messick. Chisholm drove in three runs and scored a pair of runs on the afternoon.

Grisham, meanwhile, had a pair of hits and scored three runs.

Highlights

Next up

The Yankees are off on Thursday before facing the Blue Jays in Toronto over the weekend in a three-game series.

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The Guardians are bad in June again

Well, June was a rough time for the Guardians in 2025 and it is shaping up that way again.

Parker Messick didn’t have it today and Matt Festa and Codi Heuer continue to be bad. Festa was good in 2025. He is not now.

The Guardians actually scored 3 runs off of Carlos Rodon. A minor miracle. Angel Martinez may very well become our first outfielder to hit 20 homers since Elmer Flick. At least it feels that way.

I hate when they play the Yankees. I hate that the Yankees won those first two close games and then blew them out today. I find myself looking at the Columbus box score and hoping that Kahlil Watson and Cooper Ingle sitting today means they are getting a call up for Detroit, but doesn’t that just mean Grant Fink and co. will fail to finish developing them?

Bring me Watson, Ingle, and have Franco Aleman and Andrew Walters join them in the Uber. Or, don’t and just make Friday’s delightful surprise Gabriel Arias for Stuart Fairchild and some more sacrifice bunts. That’s cool, too, I guess.

The game isn’t even over so I can’t tell you the score. The Yankees are up 8-3 but it’ll probably get worse. Let’s hope the Tigers fall apart in Cleveland again.

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Ronald Acuna Jr. injury update: Braves star outfielder back on IL

Ronald Acuna Jr. is back on the injured list.

The Braves placed their franchise outfielder on the 10-day IL Wednesday, June 10 with a strained left hamstring. It is the second time this season that same injury has put him on the IL. He left Tuesday night’s game against the White Sox after trying to beat out a ground ball to third base, the kind of play he used to make look effortless.

The Braves had been hopeful he would not need a trip to the injured list this time, and Acuna told reporters he didn’t think it was as bad and he had no pain.

Still, before Wednesday night’s series finale in Chicago, Acuna was back on the shelf.

His history of injuries is getting long.

He had a torn right ACL that ended his 2021 season. A torn left ACL ended his 2024 season after just 49 games. He opened 2025 still finishing that rehab, added a calf strain in July and played just 95 total games. Now in 2026, he has hit the IL twice with the same left hamstring issue. That is five lower-body IL stints across five seasons.

The Braves can absorb this, for now.

Michael Harris II is having the best season of his career, hitting .308 with 13 home runs. He is the reason Atlanta’s outfield does not feel depleted right now. Beyond Harris, the depth runs thin. We'll see Mike Ystremzeski in a platoon role and more Eli White, who replaced Acuna the moment he limped off Tuesday night.

Rowdy Tellez was added to the roster with Jhancarlos Lara designated for assignment to open the spot on the 40-man roster.

In between his injuries, Acuna has shown flashes of stardom. In 2023, his last full season, he hit 41 homers, scored 149 runs and stole 73 bases, becoming the first 40/70 player in MLB history.

More: Ronald Acuna Jr. injury update: What we know after Braves star exits vs. White Sox

This year, he's hitting .253 with a .380 on-base percentage and a .441 slugging percentage. He has seven home runs and 12 stolen bases in 53 games played.

The Braves own the best record in baseball going into Wednesday’s games at 45-22.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What we know about Braves star outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr.'s injury

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Warriors ‘legitimately interested’ in adding LeBron James to their veteran core, per report

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 25: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers talks with Draymond Green #23 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors after the Lakers defeated the Warriors 118-108 at Chase Center on January 25, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In today’s Dub Hub:

As the NBA Finals inch closer to an end, the NBA offseason is beginning to heat up, and rumors are already swirling around the league. The Golden State Warriors are among the teams consistently finding themselves in the middle of the speculation, particularly regarding their reported interest in Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James.

According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Warriors remain “legitimately interested” in adding James to their veteran core of Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.

Via The Stein Line:

Staying with the Lakers is widely believed to be his preferred choice because he is so entrenched in Los Angeles now after eight seasons with the purple and gold. Yet league sources maintain that Golden State remains legitimately interested in adding LeBron to their Stephen Curry/Jimmy Butler/Draymond Green core coached by Steve Kerr … with the pitch presumed to include the idea that LeBron could commute from Los Angeles to some TBD degree without having to move his family.

While James joining the Warriors may not carry quite the same weight it would have five or 10 years ago, there’s no denying that a Curry-James partnership would still captivate the basketball world. Warriors fans got a glimpse of that during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the two superstars thrived together under the guidance of head coach Steve Kerr. The chemistry was undeniable, leaving many to wonder what it might look like over the course of an 82-game season.

Of course, adding James would do little to address the Warriors’ need to get younger. Even so, the 41-year-old remains one of the league’s most productive players, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists this past season in what some considered to be a reduced role with the Lakers. He also appeared in 60 regular-season games, and while his 33.2 minutes per game marked the lowest average of his career, his 1,989 total minutes played would have ranked second on the Warriors behind only Brandin Podziemski.

Whether this latest report ultimately leads anywhere remains to be seen. But if Golden State is indeed entering the final chapter of Curry’s championship window, there may be no more fascinating way to end it than by pairing Curry with the very player who once stood as the dynasty’s greatest rival.

For more on this and other news around the NBA, here is our latest news round-up for Wednesday, June 10th:

Warriors News:

Brian Windhorst eyes Warriors as likeliest non-Lakers LeBron James destination | NBC Sports Bay Area

“If he wants to play for three million, he could do it, but until I hear from [James’ agent] Rich Paul that LeBron is ready to play for three million, I’m not going to believe it. But, I’d watch Golden State. He played with Steph Curry and Steve Kerr on the Olympic team. We know he’s close with Draymond Green. I still think it’s the Lakers. I say 51 percent Lakers, and then we’ll see.”

The 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026 | Time

His influence transcends hoops: this year’s animated sports comedy GOAT, which was inspired by his story, made nearly $200 million worldwide; Curry, a producer on the film, made his voice-acting debut—as a giraffe. The foundation he started with his wife, Ayesha, has pledged $25 million to narrow the literacy gap in Oakland’s underserved communities.

Draymond Green explains how social media criticism motivated him during the season

NBA News:

The NBA’s up-to-the-minute trade chatter | The Stein Line

Also: There is an increasing belief leaguewide that they would prefer to wait until after the NBA Finals before completing a deal to see if the Knicks end up squandering a 2-0 series lead. Might the Knicks then decide to re-enter the Giannis Trade Sweepstakes in response to the disappointment of letting the title slip away?

Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama will not be given a flagrant foul upgrade for uncalled foul on Jalen Brunson

In case you missed it at Golden State of Mind:

A brief history of the No. 11 pick, as Warriors prepare for 2026 NBA Draft

So there’s 20 years worth of No. 11 picks. The conclusion, as always? Just draft Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Klay Thompson, obviously.

Follow @unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.

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The Red Sox lineup got going too late as Rays complete sweep

ST. PETERSBURG, FL - JUNE 10: Jarren Duran #16 of the Boston Red Sox bats during the game between the Boston Red Sox and the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Alex Zadorozny/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Red Sox showed exactly why the lineup just hasn’t been good enough all season long. The group made the wrong kind of history in Wednesday’s matinee loss as the Tampa Bay Rays completed the sweep. 

Boston is 12 games under .500 as the season swirls further away from the team’s control. 

Here’s three takeaways from Wednesday’s loss. 

FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS! (Yikes)

Drew Rasmussen completely carved the Red Sox lineup from start to finish in the series finale. Tampa Bay’s right-hander had thrown the ball well(entered with 3.00 ERA in 12 starts) and took it to a new level against the AL East counterpart. 

Rasmussen set a career high with 13 strikeouts in seven scoreless innings with just two hits allowed. Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela and Wilyer Abreu all struck out in each of the first three turns of the order, marking the first time the top three hitters in an MLB lineup have done that since 1901, per the NESN broadcast. 

Boston’s dugout rejoiced when Tampa Bay went to the bullpen to start the eighth inning. Clearly the Red Sox found an opportunity. 

Caleb Durbin did hit a 415-foot solo shot for his first home run off of a non-position player in the eighth inning. Boston’s third baseman is up to .278 in his last 10 games and hit another solo homer in the ninth. Later in the frame, Ceddanne Rafaela took a massive cut against former teammate Steven Matz for a three-run blast to left field. 

Despite the late rally, Boston still struck out a glaring 15 times in the game.

JAKE BENNETT CAN BE SERVICEABLE
Boston’s No. 6 prospect (MLB Pipeline) returned for his third MLB start and struck out two in the first inning with five swings-and-misses. 

Bennett struck out four in five innings. The four earned runs on his line could’ve been cut down had Isiah Kiner-Faleka not misplayed a potential double play ball that should’ve ended the starter’s final frame. 

NOT SO WELCOME BACK TO THE TROP 

The Red Sox actually had a decent run at Tropicana Field the last season they visited in 2024 at a 4-2 clip. 

Boston previously went a combined 2-15 in St. Petersburg in 2022 and 2023. The Red Sox fell back into those struggles this week and will return for another clash with the Rays from Sept. 18-20.

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Dodgers vs Pirates Prediction, Picks & Best Bets for Today's MLB Game

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The Los Angeles Dodgers visit the Pittsburgh Pirates tonight, and they're in a great position to notch a victory with Shohei Ohtani on the mound. 

My Dodgers vs. Pirates predictions are eyeing L.A. to grab a convincing win behind their two-way superstar. 

Read on for my MLB picks for Wednesday, June 10.

Who will win Dodgers vs Pirates today: Dodgers -1.5 (-118)

The Los Angeles Dodgers will be licking their chops ahead of this matchup. 

Jared Jones takes the hill for the Pittsburgh Pirates, and he owns a brutal 5.78 xERA across his last two starts. During that span, Jones also has a 50% hard-hit rate while allowing 1.93 home runs per nine innings. 

That's bad news against a Dodgers team that ranks fourth in the big leagues in long balls. L.A. also has a 41.6% hard hit rate over their last six games, while owning an xSLG of .412.

Shohei Ohtani counters for the visitors, and he's been absolutely lights-out.

Ohtani sports a 2.27 FIP over his last four starts, while holding opponents to a .115 average. He's given up only one earned run over his previous four outings as well.

I'd play this up to -150. 

Covers COVERS INTEL: Shohei Ohtani has limited opponents to a 3.8% barrel rate over the last month, consistently inducing weak contact. 

Dodgers vs Pirates Over/Under pick: Over 7.5 (-125)

This is a prime opportunity for the Dodgers to explode offensively, but there's more reason to believe we'll see the Over hit tonight. Both of these bullpens are struggling to get outs.

L.A.'s pen sports a 4.50 xERA over the last week, with a hard-hit rate of 39.5%. Ohtani rarely pitches past the sixth inning, so they will be busy when he exits, and the relievers aren't thriving at the moment. 

As for the Bucs, their bullpen owns a 4.41 xFIP over the last 14 days while allowing 5.63 walks per nine innings. While I expect the Dodgers to do damage against Jones, given Pittsburgh's inconsistent command and poor form, L.A. could also score more runs when Jones departs. 

There are multiple paths to offense, making 7.5 runs a relatively modest number to clear. I'll play this pick up to -140. 

Quinn Allen's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 22-18, +2.77 units
  • Over/Under bets: 23-16, +3.30 units

Dodgers vs Pirates odds

  • Moneyline: Dodgers -198 | Pirates +166
  • Run line: Dodgers -1.5 (-126) | Pirates +1.5 (+106)
  • Over/Under: Over 7.5 (-127) | Under 7.5 (+122)

Dodgers vs Pirates trend

The Dodgers have covered the run line in 27 of their last 45 away games for +9.90 units and a 18% ROI. Find more MLB betting trends for Dodgers vs. Pirates.

How to watch Dodgers vs Pirates and game info

LocationPNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA
DateWednesday, June 10, 2026
First pitch6:40 p.m. ET
TVSportsNet LA, SportsNet Pittsburgh
Dodgers starting pitcherShohei Ohtani
(6-2, 0.74 ERA)
Pirates starting pitcherJared Jones
(1-0, 4.82 ERA)

Dodgers vs Pirates latest injuries

Dodgers vs Pirates weather

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

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

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A Free Agent Target That Could Be A Big Hit For The Canadiens

It looks like Montreal Canadiens GM Kent Hughes has a big summer ahead. He’ll no doubt be monitoring the market for a second-line center and for another right-shot defenseman, but the Habs could use some depth and grit up front. While the Canadiens weren’t as outmatched physically in the last playoffs as they were by the Washington Capitals in the 2024-25 playoffs, it was still obvious that Montreal could use some sandpaper.

Josh Anderson showed he can bring that, but he’ll be entering the last year of his contract when the puck drops on the next season, and he’s already 32. Zach Bolduc could also step up in that department, but that might not be enough. However, there’s one player who will reportedly be a free agent on July 1 that Hughes should consider pursuing: A.J. Greer.

Could McTavish Improve The Canadiens’ Center Line?
55 Years Ago, The Canadiens Made Two Franchise-Altering Picks
Could Canadiens’ Hughes Swing Another Big Trade With the Blues?

Of course, the fact that he was born and raised in Joliette doesn’t hurt, but it’s really his style of play that makes him an ideal target for the Canadiens. He’s 6-foot-3 and 209 pounds, he’s got a big body, and he knows how to use it. In 2025-26, he landed 203 hits, and the season before, 222. He’s not just big, he plays like it as well, and if someone wants to drop the gloves, he’s not opposed to answering the bell. He’s not the best fighter, but he can handle himself.

Arber Xhekaj vs A J Greer Dec 28, 2024Arber Xhekaj vs A J Greer Dec 28, 2024Arber Xhekaj vs A.J. Greer from the Montreal Canadiens at Florida Panthers game on Dec 28, 2024. via https://www.hockeyfights.com

Furthermore, he’s also found a bit of a scoring touch last season, putting up 32 points in 78 games, almost doubling his 2024-25 output, which stood at 17 points in 81 games. The increase in production might have been a one-off, or he could be coming into his own as a player; we won’t know until he skates in the next season.

Greer also has a Stanley Cup ring, acquired in his first season with the Florida Panthers, and that’s the kind of experience that can come in handy on a young team that includes only one Cup champion among its players (Alex Newhook). Last season, Greer only had an $850,000 cap hit, but given his performance, he’ll be looking for a significant raise. Thanks to Bill Guerin of the Minnesota Wild, who just gave Michael McCarron a six-year deal with a $3.3 million cap hit after a 17-point season (and a full no-move clause for the first three years), he could be looking for a lot of cash.

There’s no telling what his demands will be, but Hughes at least must throw his hat into the ring and make him an offer. After the Canadiens’ impressive run in the playoffs, and given the fact that he’s from Montreal, Greer may be willing to listen to join the team he used to come watch as a kid, even emptying his bank account once to attend a game when he only had $200 left…now he could fill it up nicely by actually playing in front of friends and family.

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. 

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Washington Nationals vs San Francisco Giants Game Thread

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JUNE 08: Members of the Washington Nationals celebrate a win after the game between the Washington Nationals and the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park on Monday, June 8, 2026 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Kavin Mistry/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Nationals issues finishing off sweeps have been well documented at this point. They will get another chance to finally bring out the broomsticks this afternoon. This has already been a great road trip, but getting the sweep would be the icing on the cake. A good road trip has the chance to become a great one.

Blake Butera has decided to give CJ Abrams an off day this afternoon. Abrams has rough numbers against Robbie Ray, so the Nats decided today was the right day to give him a breather. Nasim Nunez will take his place at shortstop and Jorbit Vivas will play second. Curtis Mead is at third. James Wood will DH, meaning Daylen Lile is in left, Jacob Young is in center and Dylan Crews is in right. Andres Chaparro will be at first with a lefty on the hill and Keibert Ruiz will be behind the dish. Foster Griffin is on the mound for the Nats.

The Giants are also making a few changes. Interestingly, Casey Schimitt moves from left field to shortstop, giving Willy Adames an off day. Victor Bericoto will get his first start of the series in left field. Matt Chapman will move up to the 3 spot against a left hander. Veteran Robbie Ray will be on the hill for the Giants.

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Game Info:

Stadium: Oracle Park

Time: 3:45 PM EST

TV: Nationals.TV

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

The Nats are looking for a sweep, but will have to do it without their star shortstop, at least for the start of the game. This has already been a very good road trip, but has the chance to be a special one. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!

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How to watch San Francisco Giants vs. Washington Nationals

CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 05: Robbie Ray #38 of the San Francisco Giants pitches during the game between the San Francisco Giants and the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on Friday, June 5, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Nick Loggarakis/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The San Francisco Giants wrap up this three-game series against the Washington Nationals this afternoon at Oracle Park.

Taking the mound for the Giants will be left-hander Robbie Ray, who enters today’s game with a 4.12 ERA, 5.33 FIP, with 63 strikeouts to 36 walks in 67.2 innings pitched. His last start was in the Giants’ 18-3 win over the Chicago Cubs on Friday, in which he allowed just two hits and five walks with four strikeouts in five innings.

He’ll be facing off against Nationals left-hander Foster Griffin, who enters today’s game with a 3.63 ERA, 4.84 FIP, with 69 strikeouts to 21 walks in 72 innings pitched. His last start was in the Nationals’ 14-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday, in which he allowed one run on two hits with four strikeouts in five innings.

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Game #69

Who: San Francisco Giants (27-41) vs. Washington Nationals (35-33)

Where: Oracle Park, San Francisco, California

When: 12:45 p.m. PT

Regional broadcast: NBC Sports Bay Area

National broadcast: n/a

Radio: KNBR 680 AM/104.5 FM, KSFN 1510 AM

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LeBron James ‘widely believed’ to want to stay with Lakers, Warriors interest legitimate

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers goes up for a dunk against the Golden State Warriors during the second half at Chase Center on April 09, 2026 in San Francisco, California. 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 Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It wouldn’t be a Lakers offseason if LeBron James’ name weren’t involved in a ton of rumors. The biggest difference is that this summer is the first time he’s entering the offseason as an unrestricted free agent since joining Los Angeles.

So, a decision by James will have to be made. He can either return to the Lakers, join another team, or retire.

We won’t know what he decides for a bit, and he’s made it clear he hasn’t made a choice. However, in Jake Fisher’s piece for The Stein Line, he mentioned that the most likely outcome is LeBron staying in LA. Although he did say other suitors are available, including the Golden State Warriors.

Staying with the Lakers is widely believed to be his preferred choice because he is so entrenched in Los Angeles now after eight seasons with the purple and gold. Yet league sources maintain that Golden State remains legitimately interested in adding LeBron to their Stephen Curry/Jimmy Butler/Draymond Green core coached by Steve Kerr … with the pitch presumed to include the idea that LeBron could commute from Los Angeles to some TBD degree without having to move his family.

As things currently stand, the Lakers make the most sense for being LeBron’s landing spot.

He is already entrenched here, and so is his family. Bronny also plays for the Lakers, and considering they’ve had back-to-back 50-win seasons, it makes basketball sense for him to remain and see if with a healthy Luka Dončić, they can make a run in the West.

The Lakers have stated they’d love for LeBron to return, so if that’s his wish, it will happen.

The Warriors have reportedly had interest in LeBron for years, so the fact they’ll reach out again is far from a shock.

The basketball case for the Warriors being a better place for LeBron is much harder to make. Steph Curry is great, but old. Draymond Green is no spring chicken himself, and with Jimmy Butler likely out to start the year, they are currently primed to be a play-in team once again next season.

After these two teams, the next logical option for LeBron is Cleveland. But, with LeBron reportedly uninterested in taking a pay cut to return to the Cavs, it’s hard to imagine a better scenario for him than ending his career with the Lakers.

Currently, the Lakers have the advantage in contract negotiations with LeBron, and if they show him a solid offseason plan, they should be able to retain James.

A lot can still change between now and the start of free agency, but as things currently stand, the Lakers are in a good spot if their goal is to bring back their All-Star and go on another run with their top three guys.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.

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Cincinnati Reds at San Diego Padres

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 09: Will Wagner #7 of the San Diego Padres hits a single during the second inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Petco Park on June 09, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Cincinnati Reds (32-34) at San Diego Padres (34-32), June 10, 2026, 1:10 p.m. PST

Watch: Padres.TV

Location: Petco Park – San Diego, Calif.

Listen: 97.3 The Fan

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Mets recall Jonathan Pintaro, option Joey Gerber

May 25, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Jonathan Pintaro (91) follows through on a pitch against the Cincinnati Reds during the sixth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The Mets are recalling right-hander Jonathan Pintaro from Triple-A Syracuse and optioning Joey Gerber, the team announced on Wednesday afternoon ahead of the second game of their series against the Cardinals.

Pintaro, the Mets’ No. 20 prospect per MLB Pipeline, impressed during a brief stint with the big league club in May. In two appearances, the 28-year-old totaled 3.2 scoreless innings, allowing no hits and one walk while striking out three. Pintaro has been effective all year in Syracuse, with a 3.16 ERA over 31.1 innings pitched. But he’s made a notable step forward in terms of limiting free passes of late. Pintaro issued 12 walks in 25.2 innings (4.21 BB/9) to open the season in the minors. Since returning to Syracuse on May 26, Pintaro has issued just 1 walk in 5.2 innings (1.59 BB/9).

Gerber, an offseason signing, has recorded three outings at the major league level this season. The most recent came on Tuesday night against the Cardinals, when the 29-year-old right-hander allowed one run in two innings. Gerber went out to the mound to warm up for a third inning of work, but was removed with an apparent injury.

The Mets have also made an adjustment to their rotation. Christian Scott, who was originally supposed to start Wednesday night against the Cardinals, will instead start Thursday afternoon in the series finale. Austin Warren will be the opener on Wednesday night. Pintaro, who last pitched for Syracuse on Saturday night, could provide multiple innings in relief for the Mets.

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Maple Leafs 2026 NHL Draft Pick: The Case For Matias Vanhanen

The Toronto Maple Leafs have the first overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL draft, and that will be the highlight of the occasion. Along with that No. 1 selection, Toronto also has the 60th pick in the draft, which will come in the second round.

This 60th overall pick comes from Toronto's Scott Laughton trade to the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings had the Buffalo Sabres' second-round pick from previous deals. And with the Sabres' elimination in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Maple Leafs fall to the 60th pick.

Looking at the different mock drafts and opinions of draft experts, there are a number of players that are projected to be selected around the 60th selection.

One of those players is left winger Matias Vanhanen, who is ranked 60th in the consolidated rankings by eliteprospects.com.

Vanhanen is coming off an excellent first year in the WHL with the Everett Silvertips. The Finnish 18-year-old was a top performer for the Silvertips all season long. 

In the WHL regular season, he led his team in assists (66) and points (87). In addition to that production, he provided 21 goals on the year, too, tied for fourth on the team in that category. He scored more points than teammates Carter Bear, who was selected 13th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in 2025, and projected No. 1 pick for 2027, defenseman Landon DuPont.

Vanhanen's scoring touch didn't stop in the regular season. In the WHL playoffs, he finished with 24 points in 18 contests, finishing second on the team in scoring for the post-season, and in goals with 12 tallies.

He was a big piece to Everett winning its first-ever Ed Chynoweth Cup as champions of the WHL, along with the franchise's first trip to the Memorial Cup, which was in Kelowna, B.C., this year.

Vanhanen was strong yet again at the Memorial Cup, finishing second in the tournament in scoring with four goals and four assists for eight points in five games for the Silvertips. 

The Silvertips weren't able to lift the holy grail above their heads, but they did advance to the final against the Kitchener Rangers, losing 6-2 in that contest.

Are The Marlies Staff, Players Destined For Maple Leafs And NHL Roles?: Comparing This Year's Marlies To The 2018 Calder Cup ChampionsAre The Marlies Staff, Players Destined For Maple Leafs And NHL Roles?: Comparing This Year's Marlies To The 2018 Calder Cup ChampionsWith the Toronto Marlies advancing to the Calder Cup final, how does this team compare to the 2018 Calder Cup champions, and what staff members or players are destined for the NHL?

Nonetheless, Vanhanen has proven to be one of the best players on a very successful team this past year, who finished atop the regular-season standings of the WHL, playoff champions, and Memorial Cup finalists. 

With that, he also put up six assists in seven games at the 2026 World Junior Championship for a Finland team that finished fourth in the competition. 

Before joining the Silvertips last season, Vanhanen played junior hockey in Finland, representing HIFK's U-20 team. In 42 games in the 2024-25 campaign, Vanhanen scored 17 goals and 47 points. He also made five appearances for HIFK in Liiga, but didn't register a point among the pros.

Vanhanen is listed at 5-foot-11 by NHL Central Scouting and has been labelled as an excellent playmaker.

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