Posts

Posted on

Red Wings Face Pressure to Extend Simon Edvinsson After Ducks’ LaCombe Deal

The Ducks’ big contract for Jackson LaCombe sets a market benchmark that could push the Red Wings to prioritize an early, high-value extension for young defenseman Simon Edvinsson. 

The Anaheim Ducks have been aggressive when it comes to putting together a team that can contend for the playoffs this upcoming season. They made trades to add guys like Chris Kreider, signed Mikael Granlund and will be starting with the 2024 third overall pick on the main roster in Beckett Sennecke. They also retained some of their elite talent with extensions to Mason McTavish, Lukas Dostal and most notably 24-year-old defenseman Jackson LaCombe. 

The young blueliner has been steadily improving with 43 points in 75 games last season. LaCombe's eight-year, $72 million contract with a cap hit at $9 million has reset the market in terms of what others defenders are asking for as Montreal is currently in a dispute with 2024-25 breakout Lane Hutson. This could also have an effect on the Detroit Red Wings as they too have a young defenseman that finished with 12 points less than LaCombe last season and is due for a new deal in Simon Edvinsson. 

The 22-year-old pending restricted free agent is younger than LaCombe but has shown to be a solid top four defenseman at the NHL level for at least one season and the longer that the Red Wings management staff waits to extend him, it could mean the dollar amount climbs. 

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

If Edvinsson shows once again that he can handle a big role in the Detroit defense plus lead in areas like penalty kill this season, he could see his next contract land in the range of LaCombe at roughly $8-9 million per season. Starting next offseason, the new CBA will change contract limits: new deals will have a maximum length of six seasons, while contract extensions will be limited to seven seasons. 

An extra year of holding Edvinsson till he turns 30 would be valuable plus getting a deal in early before the salary cap increases can give Detroit a better chance at getting a bargain contract. Recent insider reports suggest the salary cap could increase by nearly $12 million next season. Additionally, the Red Wings could free up to $13.25 million more in cap space if they decide not to re-sign veterans like Patrick Kane, James van Riemsdyk, Ben Chiarot, Travis Hamonic, and Cam Talbot, on top of their current $13.2 million in available cap space. 

It'll be hard for Detroit GM Steve Yzerman to make the point to Edvinsson and his representatives that he doesn't deserve a massive deal if he is coming off another productive season, the market indicates he should be getting a big deal of that nature and the team has the ability to give him what he wants with so much cap space. It might be worth while for an Edvinsson extension to be near the top of the Yzerplan going forward.

Final Form? Red Wings Hint At Opening Night Lines During PracticeFinal Form? Red Wings Hint At Opening Night Lines During PracticeThe Detroit Red Wings were back at practice this morning at Little Caesars Arena, and the lines they skated with could give a good indication as to what things could look like on Opening Night this coming Thursday.

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

Posted on

Panthers Sign Noah Gregor To One-Year, Two-Way Deal

The Florida Panthers have signed Noah Gregor to a one-year, two-way deal after he attended their training camp on a professional tryout. 

The 27-year-old will start the season on the NHL roster but did skate as an extra during Monday's practice, indicating he'll likely be a healthy scratch against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Gregor skated in four pre-season games, scoring one goal and two points. He recorded at least one shot in every game and finished with 10 total. Gregor's best asset is his speed, and he was able to effectively display it during the pre-season.

He uses his speed to hound down pucks, whether it's on the backcheck or when the puck is dumped in on the forecheck. He can also use his speed to initiate transition offence. Gregor has notched 34 goals and 70 points in 293 games. 

The Panthers' electing to sign Gregor means that Tyler Motte, who was also attending training camp on a PTO, has been released from his agreement and will remain a free agent. The 30-year-old has more NHL experience, having skated in 455 games throughout his career, but after three pre-season appearances, the Panthers liked what they saw from Gregor more than they did from Motte. 

Expected to join Gregor in the press box tonight are waiver claim Cole Schwindt and defenseman Uvis Balinskis.

Posted on

NHL Rumor Roundup: Latest On Lukas Reichel, Jack Roslovic And Yegor Chinakhov

After several weeks of speculation, it was reported last week that the Chicago Blackhawks had informed teams that Lukas Reichel was available.

The 23-year-old left winger struggled to establish himself as a top-six forward in Chicago, and the two sides appeared willing to move on.

Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journalreported last Wednesday that Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman was “kicking tires” on Reichel. Bowman was the Blackhawks' GM when they selected him 17th overall in the 2020 NHL draft.

Matheson praised Bowman's recent reclamation projects, such as Ty Emberson and Vasily Podkolzin. He also cited his acquisitions of defensemen Jake Walman and goaltender Connor Ingram in this calendar year.

However, Matheson felt that the Oilers would find it challenging to fit Reichel's $1.2-million cap hit within their limited cap space and to find a suitable role for the young winger.

So far, there's no indication that the Blackhawks are any closer to trading Reichel. He is listed as part of their lineup for their season opener on Tuesday against the Florida Panthers.

Jack Roslovic (James Guillory-Imagn Images)

Speaking of the Oilers, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported they made a contract offer to Jack Roslovic when the free-agent market opened on July 1. However, the 28-year-old right winger spurned their proposal.

Roslovic, 28, is the most notable player remaining in this year's depleted UFA market. LeBrun noted he has since changed agents, expressing surprise that the former Carolina Hurricanes winger will reject an opportunity to play alongside superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Earlier this summer, Roslovic was linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks, but both clubs have moved on. Meanwhile, the Oilers now lack the cap space to sign him if they still want to.

It's unknown what the Oilers offered Roslovic or what type of deal he's seeking. His efforts to land a lucrative contract have backfired, leaving him facing the start of the season without a team to play for.

Turning to the Columbus Blue Jackets, The Athletic's Aaron Portzline reported Yegor Chinakhov has changed agents. He's now represented by Rick Komarow, whose clients include Blue Jackets forward Dmitri Voronkov.

Chinakhov requested a trade in July, citing differences with coach Dean Evason. That request has been on hold after he reported to training camp and met with Evason. It remains unclear how his situation will unfold.

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.

Posted on

NBA season 2025-26 preview: Five teams with best chance to dethrone Thunder (with best bets from our experts)

Oklahoma City is the clear favorite to repeat as NBA champions: They have the reigning MVP in Shai Gilgous-Alexander, bring back 14 players from the roster that just lifted the Larry O'Brien Trophy, and this roster is still young and improving.

However, repeating is hard. It takes not only talent but luck. It's not an accident that the NBA has had seven different champions in each of the past seven seasons (nobody has repeated since the Durant/Curry Warriors), it's incredibly difficult to do. What teams have a chance to knock the Thunder off the top of the mountain? Here are our five, complete with best bets from some of our experts.

Denver Nuggets

The case here is simple: Denver took OKC to seven games in last year's playoffs, then got a lot better this summer.

Denver added the steadier Cameron Johnson in place of Michael Porter Jr., added the best backup center Nikola Jokic has ever had in Jonas Valančiūnas, and added depth with Tim Hardaway Jr. and the return of Bruce Brown. Jokic and Jamal Murray is still the best two-man game in the league. Don't just take my word for it, two of the experts from our betting team chose Denver as their pick.

Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper): Denver Nuggets (+600)

I do think there is one that you need in pocket before the season starts, and let's put aside for a second that the Thunder are the clear Tier One in terms of wins, in terms of championship equity as we start the season, in terms of neutral power rating. This is the best team in basketball.

However, the way their schedule is sequenced, and just the fact that there's no real urgency for them to race out to a fast start, I definitely see a world where the time to bet the Thunder is not preseason. It's probably around New Year's.

So I am going to save, keep my powder dry to bet the Thunder until we get a little bit more clarity in terms of what the rest of the West looks like, because the rest of the West is absolutely stacked. However, the second most likely team to win, in my opinion, is the Denver Nuggets. I thought their offseason was truly spectacular, and now they have a relatively complete team coming to challenge the Thunder.

I think a healthy Nuggets' squad absolutely can test this Thunder team. So I think you need Nuggets in pocket now in the +650 range and then bet the Thunder around New Year's.

Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick): Denver Nuggets +600

The Denver Nuggets haven't made the loudest headlines this offseason, but they've quietly addressed the flaws that hurt them most in last year's playoffs. For years, Denver had no reliable backup center to spell Nikola Jokić, and the minutes he sat often turned into trouble. That weakness is finally addressed with the signing of Jonas Valančiūnas, who brings size, rebounding, and a steady interior presence for the second unit.

Depth had also slipped away since the 2023 title run, but the Nuggets worked to replenish it. Tim Hardaway Jr. adds bench scoring, and the return of Bruce Brown, a key piece of the championship rotation, should help steady the second unit and give them a ton of lineup versatility as well.

The biggest swing, though, is the addition of Cameron Johnson. His blend of smart cutting, knockdown shooting, and underrated passing is already changing how Denver's offense looks. His well-timed cuts, quick relocations, and feel for spacing pull defenders out of position, triggering extra passes and opening up easy catch-and-shoot threes for Denver's shooters while keeping the floor unclogged for Jokić and Murray. His fit is tailor-made for the Nuggets' half-court game—an area that becomes crucial in the playoffs when defenses tighten up. Johnson's complementary scoring could be the final piece that makes Denver's offense nearly impossible to guard in those grind-it-out possessions.

It's easy to forget this team pushed the defending champion Thunder to seven games last spring and was arguably a late collapse in Game 5 away from finishing the series in six. With more depth, a true backup for Jokić, and a wing like Johnson who elevates their half-court attack, betting the Nuggets to win the Championship at +600 is a solid bet.

Cleveland Cavaliers

By NBA rules, one team from the East is going to make the NBA Finals. As much as the West gets all the hype (deservedly so), one East team is going to get a best-of-seven shot in the Finals. Most of us thought last June that the Thunder would wipe the floor with the Pacers, only to have Indiana push the Finals to a Game 7 (and if Tyrese Haliburton doesn't tear his Achilles early in that game, who knows).

Cleveland has a shot here. This was a 64-win team last season that fell short in the playoffs, in part due to injuries (Darius Garland and his turf toe being at the heart of those issues). The Cavaliers are stacked with Donovan Mitchell and Garland in the back court, plus Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley (who needs to take another step forward on offense) and Jarrett Allen up front. Last season's playoff loss feels like a learning curve for them, and the Cavs are not throwing away their shot. (That said, if the Knicks make the Finals, they have a puncher's chance as well.) NBC Sports' lead betting analyst Jay Croucher agrees on this one.

Jay Croucher (@croucherJD): Cleveland Cavaliers (+850)

I lean to think that the Thunder are just an absolute juggernaut, and that they are just going to waltz this with health. I think that the internal improvement from their younger players is going to be more significant than the upgrades that other teams in the West have made personnel-wise.

I think the fact that they sniffed 70 wins last year, despite Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein missing half the season each or more, is very instructive. I think Jalen Williams will get better. I think Kayson Wallace will get better. I think Chet will get better and I think that this team is just a complete juggernaut.

I also think that the Cavs, at 8-1, are worth a bet in the East, I think because the East is just so weak. I think with health, the Cavs are just so clearly the best team in the East. So I would just go to war with the Thunder at +245 and the Cavs at +800.

Houston Rockets

Did the Fred VanVleet injury knock the Rockets out of contention?

With him, this team was unquestionably a contender. Last season, the Rockets won 52 games with a top-five defense in the league and an impressive list of young players: Amen Thompson, All-Star Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason and more. Where the Rockets struggled was in their half-court offense, a glaring weakness that was evident in the playoff loss to the Warriors. Enter Kevin Durant. Still an elite bucket getter in the half-court at age 37, KD instantly vaulted the young Rockets up to contender status.

Then came the VanVleet ACL tear, very likely ending his season before it even started. Houston is going to give Thompson and second-year backup point guard Reed Sheppard every chance to fill the role. If one of them can, or if the team makes a deadline trade for a floor general point guard, the Rockets move back to contender status. It's just that some of us are a lot more skeptical now.

Los Angeles Lakers

Any team featuring Luka Doncic and LeBron James must be included here. Both have proven in the past that they can win a playoff game and maybe a series, carrying other players who may not be ready for that stage.

However, if the Lakers are truly going to be a threat, it all starts with Deandre Ayton. The former No. 1 pick has to return to his 2021 playoff form in Phoenix (when the Suns reached the Finals), where he was a solid rim protector on defense while finishing his rolls to the rim with buckets on offense (Doncic and LeBron will find him). The Lakers also have to prove they can defend. Coach J.J. Redick is going to start Doncic, LeBron and Austin Reaves — none of them consistently high-level defenders — which puts a lot of pressure on Ayton and whoever the fifth starter ends up being (Marcus Smart or Rui Hachimura) to get stops. Jared Vanderbilt will have to bring the defense off the bench. The Lakers' offense shouldn't be in question, but if they can get stops, too, this team will be a very tough out in the playoffs and can potentially make a run.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Somehow, the team that has been to back-to-back Western Conference Finals, with one of the rising stars in the game in Anthony Edwards, gets overlooked in these conversations. We're not making that mistake.

That said, it's fair to ask if these Timberwolves will resemble the one that went a bland 32-29 through the first five months of last season, or the one that finished the season 17-4 and then carried that momentum over to the playoffs? If Minnesota is going to make another deep run, it needs Edwards to take another step forward to become a top-five player in the game, Mike Conley needs to stay healthy and not show a steep decline at age 38, and the team is going to need to show that it can handle the loss of Nickeil Alexander-Walker in free agency. Rudy Gobert needs to stay healthy, and just re-signed Julius Randle needs to find a better rhythm with Edwards and live up to that new deal.

A lot of things need to fall in place for the Timberwolves to get back to the Western Conference Finals and advance, but count Edwards and them out at your own risk.

One more to watch: Golden State Warriors. This would be a long shot bet that the gravity and shooting of Stephen Curry, the defense and passing of Draymond Green, and "playoff" Jimmy Butler bringing the physicality and grit can lead a team on a run. It's a bet that there is a little more magic in the tank for Golden State. I'm not sold it happens, but if the stars align... who knows.

Posted on

Here's what Mets' arbitration-eligible players are projected to make in 2026

The Mets have nine players eligible for salary arbitration this offseason.

Those players are David Peterson, Francisco Alvarez, Tyrone Taylor, Tylor Megill, Luis Torrens, Reed Garrett, Huascar Brazoban, Max Kranick, and Nick Madrigal. 

Once a player is offered arbitration, the team and that player's agent have until a set date -- usually at some point in February -- to come to terms on a new contract. If that doesn't happen, both sides submit salary proposals and the player's salary is determined by independent arbitrators at a hearing.

A team can also offer arbitration to a player and then trade that player. So the Mets can tender contracts to players who might not be in their plans.

According to the MLB Trade Rumors algorithm that "looks at the player’s playing time, position, role, and performance statistics while accounting for inflation," here's what the Mets' arbitration-eligible players are projected to make in 2026...

David Peterson: $7.6 million
Tyrone Taylor: $3.6 million
Tylor Megill: $2.6 million
Francisco Alvarez: $2.4 million
Luis Torrens: $2.2 million
Reed Garrett: $1.4 million
Nick Madrigal: $1.35 million
Huascar Brazoban: $1.3 million
Max Kranick: $1 million

If the Mets tender contracts to all of the above players and they receive salaries similar to the projections, it would add roughly $23.5 million to the payroll.

However, Tylor Megill is in his second-to-last year of arbitration and is expected to undergo Tommy John surgery. So he could be a non-tender candidate. The same can be said for Nick Madrigal, whose 2025 season ended in spring training due to a shoulder injury. Madrigal is entering his final year of arbitration, and might not be a great roster fit given the Mets' plethora of infield options. 

As things currently stand, the Mets -- if Edwin Diaz opts out as expected -- have roughly $206 million committed to the payroll for 2026. That figure will rise a decent amount once arbitration raises and money owed to zero-to-three players who are tendered contracts is added in.

Posted on

How to watch Chicago Bulls vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: TV/live stream info, preview, tip off time

The 2025-26 NBA regular season doesn't get going until another few weeks, but that doesn't mean we have to wait that long to see some basketball action.

The Chicago Bulls will head to Rocket Arena to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers for a preseason game on Peacock tonight at 7 p.m. ET as both teams continue to get ready for another year with hopes of reaching the playoffs again. Read on for more information on the matchup and how to watch it live.

Chicago Bulls vs. Cleveland Cavaliers team news, preview

The Cavaliers had a stellar 2024-25 campaign after finishing on top of the Eastern Conference during the regular season, logging 64 wins, having a top 10 defense and the best offense in the league. Led by First Team All-NBA star player Donovan Mitchell, the Cavs are looking to keep that momentum going even after losing in the playoffs to the eventual conference champs Indiana Pacers. Mitchell will be surrounded by Evan Mobley, Max Strus, Jarrett Allen, and the addition of Lonzo Ball for Cleveland. It's unclear how many minutes each player will receive in the preseason, but keeping the band together gives head coach Kenny Atkinson an expensive foundation to lead an elite team in the NBA again.

As for the Bulls, the team is hoping to make several improvements this season. Chicago is coming off a 39-43 losing season and finishing in last place of the Central Division, but still secured a spot in the play-in tournament for the postseason. The re-signing of Josh Giddey to a new contract, keeping Coby White and Nikola Vucevic — disregarding any trade rumors — the Bulls should have enough talent to push for a playoff spot. White and Patrick Williams are reportedly dealing with injuries in the preseason, so it's unclear if either of the two will see the court in this Central Division tune-up game.

How to watch Chicago Bulls vs. Cleveland Cavaliers - TV/stream info

  • When: Tuesday, Oct. 7
  • Where: Rocket Arena – Cleveland, Ohio
  • Time: 7 PM ET
  • TV Channel: Peacock

What NBA games are exclusively on Peacock?

Fifty NBA games will stream exclusively on Peacock, including regular-season and postseason matchups.

How to watch the 2025-26 NBA Season on NBC/Peacock?

Fans can sign up for a paid Peacock subscription or log in to their TV provider on NBC to access 100 regular-season games that will be available to watch on Peacock and NBC, plus NBA playoff games, Conference Finals, and the NBA All-Star game. Fans can also watch Sunday Night Basketball on Peacock and NBC starting in January 2026, exclusive Monday games only on Peacock, and Tuesday night doubleheaders throughout the regular season.

NBA on NBC 2025-26 Schedule

Click here to see the full list of NBA games that will air on NBC and Peacock this season.

Posted on

2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Mock Draft Results: 12-Team 9-Cat Analysis

To draft Embiid, or not to draft Embiid. That's the question I found myself asking in the fifth round of this mock draft, and the question many fantasy managers will be asking themselves this season.

This 9-category mock draft took place Tuesday, featuring standard settings. Notably, that means 12 teams and a requirement to start two centers. The draft was comprised of eight fantasy basketball analysts and four enthusiasts who joined through a post on my Twitter/X (@BaruthaAlex).

This was a fun, competitive draft. It outlines how difficult it can be to build a perfect team, but also how much value can be had late to cover what you don't feel great about.

Pre-Draft Strategy

I didn't have a set gameplan going into the draft, but when I found out I had the sixth pick, I knew I'd probably be getting one of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Cade Cunningham or Anthony Edwards. Whoever that turned out to be would determine what categories I'd be punting.

One thing I wanted to accomplish was constructing a team with some of fantasy's up-and-comers. How good can a team built primarily from young players with upside be? Will I feel like I left veteran stability on the table?

My Team

  1.  (6) Cade Cunningham (DET- PG, SG)
  2.  (19) Evan Mobley (CLE - PF, C)
  3.  (30) Paolo Banchero (ORL - PF, C)
  4.  (43) Ja Morant (MEM - PG)
  5.  (54) Coby White (CHI- PG, SG)
  6.  (67) Andrew Nembhard (IND - PG, SG)
  7.  (78) Donovan Clingan (POR - C)
  8.  (91) Nic Claxton (BKN - C)
  9.  (102) Shaedon Sharpe (POR - SG, SF)
  10.  (115) Andrew Wiggins (MIA - SG, SF)
  11.  (126) Keyonte George (UTA - PG, SG)
  12.  (139) Kyle Kuzma (MIL - SF, PF)
  13.  (150) T.J. McConnell (IND - PG)

How the Draft Unfolded

I ended up with Cade Cunningham with my first pick -- the most well-rounded option available. That left me open to decide on a punt build with Picks 2 and 3.

There were a lot of options open to me at Pick 2, including Amen Thompson, Jalen Johnson, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren and Josh Giddey. Ultimately, I opted for Evan Mobley. I think he's an underrated breakout candidate, and it helps that he qualifies at both power forward and center.

That decision made my third-round selection easier. I was trending toward a team of versatile bigs, which allowed me to take Paolo Banchero without worrying about his lack of three-pointers or subpar free-throw percentage. Those now became my punt categories and help steer the remainder of my draft.

I don't think I reached for anyone, but two picks that probably stick out the most are Coby White (54) and Andrew Nembhard (67). I had the option to draft Joel Embiid and passed, although he'd fit my build. In hindsight, I probably should have taken him since I already had two center-eligible players (Mobley and Banchero) who could be my points of stability at the position. Nembhard typically goes a round or two later than I selected him, but his floor is incredibly high in the Pacers' offense as someone who can pass and rack up steals.

I'm excited about getting Keyonte George at pick 126 and T.J. McConnell at 150. I might be on an island with George, but I think he's Utah's clear No. 3 option. A little more efficiency would go a long way in his value. And McConnell is McConnell -- we know he's one of the best per-minute producers in the league. More minutes should be available this year.

If I'm worried about any position, it's small forward. I didn't draft one until the 9th round (Shaedon Sharpe), and then had to make sure I got some stable value with Andrew Wiggins. We'll see how the Kyle Kuzma experience ends up being in Milwaukee.

Final Team Assessment

I like my team. The punt 3s and FT% build has cohesion, without too many players breaking the mold. I typically don't prefer to punt, but game theory suggests you should in category leagues. So I'm happy I built something that makes sense.

My biggest point of concern, other than my weak SF position, is Ja Morant. He's not starting the year healthy and is injury prone. But it's also difficult to win in fantasy without taking at least one swing, and he's that guy for me. I think that when he's on the floor, he could produce career-best numbers.

Conclusion and Full Draft Results

The lesson here is don't be afraid to commit to a strategy once your first 2-3 picks reveal a direction. Half-punting rarely works outside of some exceptional value picks and health luck.

Also, in two-center leagues, the position gets thin fast—I saw a run from picks 35-55 that cleared out the reliable starters. If you're waiting on center, have a plan. 

This season's young talent is deeper than ever, which makes mid-to-late round upside picks more valuable than usual.

Jeff's Mind-Blowing Team
1.(1)Nikola Jokić (DEN - C)
2.(24)Jalen Brunson (NYK - PG)
3.(25)Jaylen Brown (BOS - SG,SF)
4.(48)Nikola Vučević (CHI - C)
5.(49)DeMar DeRozan (SAC - SF)
6.(72)Immanuel Quickley (TOR - PG,SG)
7.(73)Brandon Ingram (TOR - SG,SF,PF)
8.(96)Jalen Green (PHX - PG,SG)
9.(97)John Collins (LAC - PF,C)
10.(120)Jaden Ivey (DET - PG,SG)
11.(121)Jonathan Kuminga (GSW - SF,PF)
12.(144)Jeremy Sochan (SAS - PF,C)
13.(145)Scoot Henderson (POR - PG)
Papi Roi of FBPH
1.(2)Victor Wembanyama (SAS - C)
2.(23)Chet Holmgren (OKC - PF,C)
3.(26)Derrick White (BOS - PG,SG)
4.(47)Kristaps Porziņģis (ATL - PF,C)
5.(50)Brandon Miller (CHA - SF,PF)
6.(71)Mikal Bridges (NYK - SF,PF)
7.(74)Alex Sarr (WAS - C)
8.(95)Jalen Suggs (ORL - PG)
9.(98)Herbert Jones (NOP - SF,PF)
10.(119)CJ McCollum (WAS - PG,SG)
11.(122)Bobby Portis (MIL - PF,C)
12.(143)Aaron Nesmith (IND - SF)
13.(146)Dejounte Murray (NOP - PG,SG)
Noah's Neat Team
1.(3)Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC - PG)
2.(22)Jalen Williams (OKC - SF,PF)
3.(27)Alperen Sengun (HOU - C)
4.(46)Cooper Flagg (DAL - SF)
5.(51)Kawhi Leonard (LAC - SF,PF)
6.(70)Ausar Thompson (DET - SF,PF)
7.(75)Jordan Poole (NOP - PG,SG)
8.(94)Onyeka Okongwu (ATL - C)
9.(99)Brandin Podziemski (GSW - PG,SG)
10.(118)D'Angelo Russell (DAL - PG)
11.(123)Reed Sheppard (HOU - PG,SG)
12.(142)VJ Edgecombe (PHI - SG)
13.(147)Dylan Harper (SAS - SG)
Alex's Amazing Team
1.(4)Luka Dončić (LAL - PG,SG)
2.(21)Jalen Johnson (ATL - SF,PF)
3.(28)Josh Giddey (CHI - PG,SG)
4.(45)Zion Williamson (NOP - SF,PF)
5.(52)Austin Reaves (LAL - PG,SG)
6.(69)Deandre Ayton (LAL - C)
7.(76)Jakob Poeltl (TOR - C)
8.(93)Jrue Holiday (POR - PG,SG)
9.(100)Tobias Harris (DET - PF)
10.(117)Donte DiVincenzo (MIN - PG,SG)
11.(124)Kevin Porter Jr. (MIL - PG,SG)
12.(141)Scotty Pippen Jr. (MEM - PG,SG)
13.(148)Jabari Smith Jr. (HOU - PF,C)
Dimes's Perfect Team
1.(5)Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL - PF,C)
2.(20)Amen Thompson (HOU - PG,SG,SF)
3.(29)LaMelo Ball (CHA - PG,SG)
4.(44)Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM - PF,C)
5.(53)Jimmy Butler III (GSW - SF,PF)
6.(68)Paul George (PHI - SG,SF,PF)
7.(77)Isaiah Hartenstein (OKC - C)
8.(92)Bradley Beal (LAC - SG,SF)
9.(101)Cam Thomas (BKN - SG,SF)
10.(116)Aaron Gordon (DEN - PF,C)
11.(125)Nickeil Alexander-Walker (ATL - SG,SF)
12.(140)Wendell Carter Jr. (ORL - C)
13.(149)Chris Paul (LAC - PG)
Alex Barutha
1.(6)Cade Cunningham (DET - PG,SG)
2.(19)Evan Mobley (CLE - PF,C)
3.(30)Paolo Banchero (ORL - PF,C)
4.(43)Ja Morant (MEM - PG)
5.(54)Coby White (CHI - PG,SG)
6.(67)Andrew Nembhard (IND - PG,SG)
7.(78)Donovan Clingan (POR - C)
8.(91)Nic Claxton (BKN - C)
9.(102)Shaedon Sharpe (POR - SG,SF)
10.(115)Andrew Wiggins (MIA - SG,SF)
11.(126)Keyonte George (UTA - PG,SG)
12.(139)Kyle Kuzma (MIL - SF,PF)
13.(150)T.J. McConnell (IND - PG)
Jeremy's First-Class Team
1.(7)Trae Young (ATL - PG)
2.(18)LeBron James (LAL - SF,PF)
3.(31)Scottie Barnes (TOR - SG,SF,PF)
4.(42)Dyson Daniels (ATL - PG,SG,SF)
5.(55)Joel Embiid (PHI - C)
6.(66)OG Anunoby (NYK - SF,PF)
7.(79)Matas Buzelis (CHI - SF,PF)
8.(90)Santi Aldama (MEM - PF,C)
9.(103)Naz Reid (MIN - PF,C)
10.(114)Toumani Camara (POR - SF,PF)
11.(127)Quentin Grimes (PHI - SG,SF)
12.(138)Bub Carrington (WAS - PG,SG)
13.(151)Kon Knueppel (CHA - SF)
SteveSaintP
1.(8)Anthony Davis (DAL - PF,C)
2.(17)Tyrese Maxey (PHI - PG)
3.(32)Jamal Murray (DEN - PG,SG)
4.(41)Myles Turner (MIL - C)
5.(56)Payton Pritchard (BOS - PG)
6.(65)Cameron Johnson (DEN - SF,PF)
7.(80)Mark Williams (PHX - C)
8.(89)Tari Eason (HOU - SF,PF)
9.(104)Isaiah Jackson (IND - C)
10.(113)Kyrie Irving (DAL - PG)
11.(128)Egor Demin (BKN - PG)
12.(137)Ace Bailey (UTA - SF)
13.(152)Ryan Kalkbrenner (CHA - C)
Kirien's Cool Team
1.(9)Karl-Anthony Towns (NYK - PF,C)
2.(16)Stephen Curry (GSW - PG)
3.(33)Pascal Siakam (IND - PF,C)
4.(40)Trey Murphy III (NOP - SF,PF)
5.(57)Lauri Markkanen (UTA - SF,PF)
6.(64)Darius Garland (CLE - PG)
7.(81)Rudy Gobert (MIN - C)
8.(88)Anfernee Simons (BOS - PG,SG)
9.(105)Bennedict Mathurin (IND - SG,SF)
10.(112)Zach Edey (MEM - C)
11.(129)Dennis Schröder (SAC - PG,SG)
12.(136)Stephon Castle (SAS - PG,SG)
13.(153)Davion Mitchell (MIA - PG)
Erdem's Expert Team
1.(10)Anthony Edwards (MIN - PG,SG)
2.(15)Donovan Mitchell (CLE - PG,SG)
3.(34)Bam Adebayo (MIA - PF,C)
4.(39)Desmond Bane (ORL - SG,SF)
5.(58)Miles Bridges (CHA - SF,PF)
6.(63)Zach LaVine (SAC - PG,SG)
7.(82)Tyler Herro (MIA - PG,SG)
8.(87)Norman Powell (MIA - SG,SF)
9.(106)RJ Barrett (TOR - SF,PF)
10.(111)Dereck Lively II (DAL - C)
11.(130)Jaylen Wells (MEM - SG,SF)
12.(135)Cason Wallace (OKC - PG,SG)
13.(154)Kyshawn George (WAS - SG,SF)
Sloan PivaSporting News/Athlon
1.(11)Devin Booker (PHX - PG,SG)
2.(14)Kevin Durant (HOU - SF,PF)
3.(35)Ivica Zubac (LAC - C)
4.(38)Deni Avdija (POR - SF,PF)
5.(59)Walker Kessler (UTA - C)
6.(62)Jarrett Allen (CLE - C)
7.(83)Christian Braun (DEN - SG,SF)
8.(86)Kel'el Ware (MIA - PF,C)
9.(107)Keegan Murray (SAC - SF,PF)
10.(110)Jaden McDaniels (MIN - SF,PF)
11.(131)Malik Monk (SAC - SG)
12.(134)Yves Missi (NOP - C)
13.(155)Jay Huff (IND - C)
Mac's Groovy Team
1.(12)James Harden (LAC - PG,SG)
2.(13)Domantas Sabonis (SAC - C)
3.(36)Franz Wagner (ORL - SF,PF)
4.(37)De'Aaron Fox (SAS - PG,SG)
5.(60)Josh Hart (NYK - SG,SF,PF)
6.(61)Jalen Duren (DET - C)
7.(84)Julius Randle (MIN - PF,C)
8.(85)Michael Porter Jr. (BKN - SF,PF)
9.(108)Devin Vassell (SAS - SG,SF)
10.(109)Draymond Green (GSW - PF,C)
11.(132)Lonzo Ball (CLE - PG,SG)
12.(133)Klay Thompson (DAL - SG,SF)
13.(156)Ty Jerome (MEM - SG)
Posted on

Steve Kerr challenging Brandin Podziemski to adjust how he plays with ‘edge'

Steve Kerr challenging Brandin Podziemski to adjust how he plays with ‘edge' originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Before Warriors training camp was in full swing, Steve Kerr said last week that he expected third-year guard Brandin Podziemski to take another leap this season. 

So far, so good for Podziemski.

On Tim Kawakami’s “The TK Show,” Kerr was asked if the young guard looked “edgy.”

“For sure. He’s a competitor. He loves the game. He has high aspirations for himself and I love that about him,” Kerr explained. “At the same time, I want him to find the edge without the emotional downswings, and that has been what is so encouraging so far.” 

Kerr, in his first media availability last week, noted that there were many ups and downs for Podziemski. The Warriors coach noted that moving forward after “inevitable tough nights” would be important for Podziemski this season. 

“BP has been, in camp so far, just lights-out,” Kerr said to Tim Kawakami on “The TK Show”. “He is just playing at a really high level.” 

In Golden State’s first preseason game Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers, Podziemski scored eight points in 18 minutes played. He also displayed his usual scrappy defensive ability with two steals on the night. 

This is part of the ‘edge’ that Kerr wants to see. What he does not want to see from Podziemski, as he noted to media last week, was the guard’s propensity to complain to referees. 

“We haven’t played a real game, but we had three NBA officials in our building… for our scrimmage. He didn’t stop and complain one time and I was thrilled with that,” Kerr noted. “I’m going to definitely stay on him about that because I think his emotion can lift our team and can also put us in a tough spot.” 

Kerr notes that Podziemski’s edge can help fuel the team, but staying even-keeled will also help the young guard and the team alike weather the storm on the inevitable tougher nights. 

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

Posted on

Steve Kerr shares expectations for Warriors rookie Will Richard this season

Steve Kerr shares expectations for Warriors rookie Will Richard this season originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Warriors are a veteran-laden team entering the 2025-26 NBA season, but coach Steve Kerr is just as excited about the youth at his disposal.

Speaking to “The TK Show” host Tim Kawakami, Kerr raved about rookie guard Will Richard, the 56th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

“[Richard is] a great young guy,” Kerr told Kawakami. “Totally engaged. Got good size, can shoot it well and he’s just such a sponge. He’s so coachable. I think he has got a future.”

The 22-year-old, 6-foot-4 Richard brings plenty of collegiate experience with him into the professional ranks. He played his freshman season at Belmont University in Tennessee before transferring to the University of Florida, where he started 105 games over his final three seasons of college play.

His success with the Gators led the Memphis Grizzlies to select Richard in the second round of June’s NBA Draft. Memphis then traded Richard’s rights to the Warriors, where he will learn from veteran stalwarts like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler and Al Horford. And while the presence of those established stars will make it difficult for Richard to find playing time this upcoming season, Kerr is bullish on his long-term prospects.

“Usually, guys in their rookie years, it takes time,” Kerr told Kawakami. “So, I don’t anticipate Will playing any time soon. He’ll certainly see some time in Santa Cruz to get lots of playing time. He’s impressive and I think we really like him.”

It’s clear Richard already has endeared himself to his coach and one of his star teammates. Now, it’s up to the rookie to validate the organization’s excitement.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

Posted on

Blackhawks Vs Panthers: Projected Lines, How To Watch, & More Ahead Of Game 1

The Chicago Blackhawks have arrived. They are ready to play in their centennial season, the 2025-26 campaign. Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, Sami Rinzel, and the Blackhawks are down in Sunrise to take on Gustav Forsling, Sergei Bobrovsky, and the Florida Panthers. 

Before the game, the Panthers are going to have a ceremony that will see them raise a Stanley Cup championship banner for the second year in a row. 

After that, the Panthers will take the ice without their two best forwards. Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov are going to be out for a long time. Although nobody wants to see anyone hurt at any time, this is a break for the Blackhawks. 

The Blackhawks are not without injuries themselves; the players just aren't as consequential. Alex Vlasic, though, is a strong defenseman who the Blackhawks will miss in this game. 

Landon Slaggert will also be out, as the team was forced to put him on injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. 

The Blackhawks are expected by many to be one of the worst teams in the NHL when it comes to the standings. With that said, the development of young players in the lineup is what the team sees as most important.

They'd also love to take down the champs on the road to open the season, as it could set the tone for an improved year. 

Projected Lines

Donato-Bedard-Burakovsky

Teravainen-Nazar-Bertuzzi

Dach-Dickinson-Mikheyev

Foligno-Greene-Lafferty

Grzelcyk-Rinzel

Kaiser-Levshunov

Del Mastro-Murphy

Knight

Söderblom

With Slaggert hitting IR, Colton Dach moved into his spot on the third line left wing. They called up Ryan Greene to play fourth-line center and moved Sam Lafferty to his right wing. 

Alex Vlasic is ruled out for the first game, so Ethan Del Mastro will draw into the lineup. Grzelcyk will move up to the top pair with Sam Rinzel, while Del Mastro will play with Murphy on the third pair. 

Spencer Knight will make his first start of the season, and it will come against the team that traded him away. Arvid Söderblom will be the backup. 

Of the non-injured players, Lukas Reichel will be the non-dressed forward, and Louis Crevier will be the healthy scratch defenseman. 

The most notable part of this lineup is the 1-2 punch down the middle in the top six. Jeff Blashill has a lot of faith in Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, who should carry the load for this team offensively all year long. This game against Florida will be an early test for them, going up against an elite team. 

How To Watch

Those looking for the game in Chicago and nationally can find it on ESPN and ESPN+. The event will start at Amerant Bank Arena at 4:00 PM CT. As mentioned before, the game will take place following the championship ceremony that Florida holds for itself. 

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

Posted on

Mets need to add a frontline starter during 2025-26 MLB offseason, but who should they target?

As the Mets embark on an offseason that could include some needed shakeups, it can be argued that the most important thing they have to do is reshape the starting rotation.

It was the rotation more than anything else that resulted in the Mets going from 45-24 in June to out of the playoffs on the final day of the regular season.

Transforming the starting staff will be a bit complicated considering the amount of options already under contract for 2026, but it has to be done.

And the biggest part of that transformation should be adding a legitimate top of the rotation starter to the group.

Who should the main targets be?

The free agent crop

A bunch of pitchers with elite talent will hit the open market in about a month. 

While signing one of them would be the easiest way for the Mets to address their need at the top of the rotation, huge deals in terms of both years and dollars for older pitchers rarely work out.

For an example of that, look at the Diamondbacks' signing of Corbin Burnes last offseason. Ahead of his age-30 season and with warning signs when it came to his declining strikeout rate, they inked Burnes to a six-year deal worth $210 million. He was pitching extremely well until June, when Tommy John surgery ended his season. It's possible Burnes misses the entire 2026 season, too.

There are some long-term signings to older pitchers that have worked, though, including the seven-year deal Max Scherzer inked with the Nationals ahead of his age-30 season in 2015.

But there are no Scherzers out there now. Instead, the top of the free agent market features Framber Valdez, Michael King, and Ranger Suarez.

San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King (34) pitches against the New York Mets during the first inning at Petco Park.
San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King (34) pitches against the New York Mets during the first inning at Petco Park. / Orlando Ramirez - Imagn Images

Valdez, who turns 32 in November, has been a workhorse over the last four seasons, posting a 3.21 ERA across 767.2 innings. While he's never been an advanced stats darling, there is some serious cause for concern there. There was also a troubling moment in September, when Valdez seemingly intentionally crossed up his catcher in order to hit him with a pitch.

King, who will be entering his age-31 season in 2026, was tremendous for the Padres in 2024 as he transitioned from relieving to starting. But he made just 15 starts in 2025 as he dealt with a nerve injury in his throwing shoulder and a knee injury.

Suarez, who turned 30 in August, might be the safest bet -- but he's also the least imposing. He has allowed 8.6 hits per nine during his eight-year career (he gave up 154 in 157.1 innings in 2025), is not a big strikeout guy, and has never thrown 158 innings or more in a season.

Translation? The Mets should look to the trade market, where these pitchers could be available...

Sandy Alcantara

It's true that the Marlins -- who finished 79-83 this past season and have a strong group of starting pitchers -- should be aiming higher than that in 2026.

It's also true that they dangled Alcantara at the trade deadline.

And it's safe to say that he has more value to them via trade this offseason than he does as an expensive member of a starting rotation that has tons of young talent -- including Edward Cabrera, Eury Perez, and Ryan Weathers.

Alcantara is under contract through the 2026 season, when he'll earn $17.3 million. Miami also has a club option for 2027 that's worth $21 million. For reference, the Marlins' entire Opening Day payroll in 2025 was $67.2 million ($86 million when taking CBT purposes into account).

Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Colorado Rockies during the sixth inning at loanDepot Park
Miami Marlins starting pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) pitches against the Colorado Rockies during the sixth inning at loanDepot Park / Sam Navarro - Imagn Images

So it stands to reason that Alcantara will be available this winter -- and the Mets should have tons of interest.

After shaking off the rust this season following his return from Tommy John surgery, Alcantara had a 3.13 ERA in 77.2 innings over 12 starts from July 23 through the end of the season -- tossing 7.0 innings or more on seven occasions.

Joe Ryan

Ryan had the best season of his career in 2025, posting a 3.42 ERA and 1.03 WHIP while striking out 10.2 batters per nine in a career-high 171.0 innings.

He has always missed lots of bats (his career strikeout rate is 10.1 per nine) and his four-seam fastball (which he uses about half the time) has graded out as one of the best in baseball each of the last four seasons.

The big question here is whether the Twins would trade Ryan, who has two more years of arbitration remaining and will be very inexpensive (he made just $3 million in 2025).

In the midst of an incredibly disappointing 2025 season, Minnesota had a fire sale, trading 10 players from the big league roster. That included Carlos Correa, Griffin Jax, and elite closer Jhoan Duran, who -- like Ryan -- has two more years of arbitration remaining and will be wildly inexpensive in 2026 (he made just $1.3 million this past season).

The Twins can definitely get a haul for Ryan this offseason, and it would behoove them to cash in as they embark on some form of a rebuild.

Tarik Skubal

Skubal is set for free agency after 2026, so the Mets -- and any other team expecting to contend next season -- should be on the Tigers' case about him.

Would it be surprising if Detroit traded the best pitcher in the American League fresh off back-to-back Cy Young seasons? Perhaps.

But what makes this intriguing is that when the Tigers attempted to extend Skubal, it was reportedly a non-competitive offer. And owner Christopher Ilitch gave a bit of a weird answer earlier this month when asked about a possible Skubal extension. The 28-year-old left-hander is repped by Scott Boras.

Even with just one year left on his deal, it would likely take a King's ransom to pry Skubal from Detroit.

Sep 18, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) pitches in the sixth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Comerica Park.
Sep 18, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) pitches in the sixth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Comerica Park. / Rick Osentoski - Imagn Images

And if the Tigers determine that they're all but certain to lose him after 2026, trading him could be in their best interest.

Paul Skenes

This wouldn't just be a moonshot. It would be like attempting to land on Mars.

But until the Pirates show that they're serious about spending enough to build a winning team around Skenes, the idea of them trading him won't end.

Given Skenes' ability, age, and contract situation, the cost would be astronomical.

He has four years of team control remaining, won't be arbitration-eligible until after the 2026 season, and made just $875,000 in 2025.

In a world where Pittsburgh makes Skenes available, the Mets -- with one of the best farm systems in baseball -- would possibly have as good a shot as any team to land him.