The Montreal Canadiens traded defenseman William Trudeau to the New York Rangers in exchange for forward Brett Berard this off-season. However, Trudeau is now with the Nashville Predators, as they claimed him off waivers from New York before the start of the season.
Trudeau never played a game for Montreal, as he spent his entire time with the organization with the AHL's Laval Rocket. However, he played his first game against Montreal on Thursday night for the Predators.
Unfortunately, Trudeau's first game in his hometown came to an early end.
Trudeau only played the first period of the Predators' matchup against the Canadiens before being ruled out for the contest with an upper-body injury. This was certainly not how Trudeau wanted his return to Montreal to go.
With Trudeau looking to prove that he is ready to be a full-time NHL defenseman, he will be hoping that this injury does not force him to miss much time. The former Canadiens prospect has been getting his first chance at the NHL level this year for the Predators, so the timing of this injury is unfortunate.
In three games this season for Nashville, Trudeau has zero points, three hits, and an even plus/minus rating. This is after he posted eight goals, 20 points, 54 penalty minutes, and a plus-3 rating in 62 games for Laval during this past season.
The Detroit Red Wings return to action Friday evening against the Seattle Kraken, giving forward Michael Brandsegg-Nygård another chance to score his first NHL goal.
Brandsegg-Nygård led Detroit with six shots on goal in the Red Wings' 3-2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets earlier this week. He's still searching for that elusive first goal, but according to head coach Todd McLellan, it certainly isn't for a lack of trying.
In fact, according to McLellan, the idea is to take the pressure off the young forward rather than build it up.
"We enforce the things he's doing well, but we don't want to convolute him with, 'Hey, if you do this, you're gonna score'. He's getting his chances, he's got a good shot, and it'll go in eventually," McLellan said following the club's skate on Friday morning. "He'll get rewarded. But we're not going to - we'd prefer to take the pressure off him rather than put it on him.
He's still a young fella, and he's been real effective up to this point. I have no complaints about his game; it'll go in for him."
Brandsegg-Nygård, whom the Red Wings selected in the first round (15th overall pick) of the 2024 NHL Draft, was one of the best players for the American Hockey League affiliate Grand Rapids Griffins during the Calder Cup Playoffs in the spring.
For the second straight year, he made the most of his opportunity in Red Wings Training Camp and the preseason, earning a roster spot.
With the loss of veterans like Patrick Kane and James van Riemsdyk, along with current injuries to players like J.T. Compher, Mason Appleton, and Marco Kasper, Brandsegg-Nygård will be looked upon to play a bigger role in the forward units.
But that doesn't mean he'll be pressured to do so. The reason he's on the roster is because the team sees his talent, and believes he can help them.
Brandsegg-Nygård and the Red Wings will drop the puck against the Kraken at 7:00 p.m. ET.
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The Houston Rockets opened their preseason with a 135-117 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday morning at The Venetian Arena in Macao, China. The matchup gave both teams an early opportunity to evaluate their rosters, build chemistry, and prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
Houston established control early, taking a 27-19 lead after the first quarter. The Rockets continued to apply pressure in the second quarter, using their scoring ability and defensive intensity to create separation. By halftime, Houston had built a commanding 65-45 advantage, putting Dallas in a difficult position heading into the second half.
Tari Eason led the Rockets with 20 points, providing an important scoring contribution throughout the game. Alperen Sengun looked like the best player on the court at times, racking a up a triple double of 16 points, 10 boards, and 10 assists.
Fred VanVleet also made an impact, finishing with 17 points and 7 assists, as Houston showed its offense with a legit playmaker at the helm. He also hit 5 triples. Jabari Smith Jr. added 19 points, helping the Rockets spread the scoring across the lineup.
Kevin Durant, one of Houston’s major offensive weapons, finished with eight points in limited playing time. His presence added experience and star power to a Rockets team looking to develop its chemistry before the regular season begins. Durant’s limited scoring performance is not a concen to me as this is pre season. Additonally Houston being able to function offensilvey without relying heavily on Durant is a welcome development. Honestly my only real gripe with the offense was watching Tari and Amen try to initiate offense, Amen’s continued lack of handle.
Although preseason results do not determine regular-season success, the game provided valuable insight into both teams. Houston showed its offensive potential and depth, while Dallas gained experience for its younger players.
The Rockets and Mavericks will meet again in Macao on Sunday for their second preseason matchup. Both teams will look to build on Friday’s performance as they continue preparing for the 2026-27 NBA season. Be sure to check back here at The Dream Shake for more Rockets post game recaps.
The Colorado Avalanche are off to a historic start to the 2026-27 season.
Through their first four games, the Avalanche have scored an astonishing 23 goals while posting a 3-1 record. That puts them in rare company, as no team had scored that many goals through four games to open a season since the 1993-94 Los Angeles Kings, who were led by Wayne Gretzky and head coach Barry Melrose.
Wayne Gretzky broke Gordie Howe’s all-time NHL goals record during the 1993-94 season, a mark later surpassed by Alex Ovechkin. Credit: Robert Hanashiro - USA Today
Despite Gretzky putting together a league-leading 130-point campaign that season, the Kings struggled to find consistent success, finishing with a 27-45-12 record. Colorado will be hoping its own offensive explosion leads to a much different outcome.
Cale Makar following Colorado's 6-1 win over the St. Louis Blues
With another Stanley Cup firmly in their sights, the Avalanche have championship aspirations that go well beyond a hot start. Their early production is an encouraging sign, and forward T.J. Hughes believes the talent throughout the locker room is a major reason for the team's success.
"Just the talent, the IQ in this room, and then guys just bearing down (and) scoring," Hughes said. "I know it's early. So got to keep that up and try to get the scoring touch with everyone, but I would just say the talent overall in the group, everyone's just so good."
Hughes is also beginning to make his own mark at the NHL level. At 6:34 of the third period against Calgary, with Colorado already holding a commanding 6-1 lead, he recorded the first point of his NHL career. After receiving a pass from Brett Kulak, Hughes quickly found Jaden Schwartz in the slot, where Schwartz buried the chance to extend the Avalanche's advantage.
"It felt great," Hughes said. "Great pass to me and then I saw (Schwartz) in the slot there and great shot by him."
The young forward also credited communication for the success of his line, which has found its rhythm despite having limited time to build chemistry together.
"I think just talking on the bench, a lot of communication," he explained. "I've never played with these two guys. Great players, but, like, takes time to get the chemistry. So yeah, a lot of communication, they're just reading off each other. So it's been working so far and it's gotta keep it up."
Hughes appears to be adjusting to the speed of the NHL with each passing game. While he looked a step behind at times in Colorado's season opener, he seems to be playing with more confidence and reacting more instinctively as he gains experience against top-level competition.
Avalanche Getting Contributions From Across the Lineup
Much of Colorado's early offensive production has come from its biggest names. Nathan MacKinnon leads the team with eight points, while Jaden Schwartz and Cale Makar have six apiece. Makar and Devon Toews both scored twice against Calgary, helping power Colorado to a convincing 7-3 victory.
MacKinnon's production isn't surprising, but the contributions from players like Parker Kelly and Toews show just how much offensive depth Colorado has. Kelly has recorded five points through four games, while Toews has already scored twice after waiting until Colorado's 25th game last season to find the back of the net for the first time.
Toews opened the scoring against Calgary at 15:54 of the first period, redirecting a pass from Makar past Flames goaltender Devin Cooley. After Calgary briefly tied the game, Toews struck again in the second period to restore Colorado's lead.
His second goal came on a wrist shot from the point that traveled through traffic and beat Cooley, giving the Avalanche a 2-1 advantage. Makar then added a goal of his own before MacKinnon extended the lead to 4-1. Makar scored again early in the third, and Schwartz's goal off Hughes' setup made it 6-1.
For Toews, the offensive outburst comes down to finding ways to help the team win and making the most of opportunities created by his teammates.
"Winning's fun. It's what you're trying to do," Toews said. "So anytime we help our team win is what we're going out there to do."
Toews also credited Makar for delivering the puck exactly where it needed to be, explaining that his job was to provide an option in front of the net and let his teammate make the decision.
"I'm trying to give him an option and allow him to pick and choose what he wants to do," Toews said. "So, yeah, really nice play by him."
Calgary managed to score twice in the third period to cut into Colorado's lead, but the Avalanche had already inflicted enough damage to secure the win and improve to 3-1 through four games.
Four games are a small sample, and maintaining this scoring pace over an entire season is a tall order. Still, Colorado has shown that its offensive firepower extends beyond its biggest stars. With MacKinnon and Makar leading the way, Toews producing from the blue line, and emerging contributors like Kelly and Hughes finding their footing, the Avalanche are getting results from throughout the lineup.
Their historic start has already caught attention. Now, the challenge is turning that early momentum into another deep Stanley Cup run.
The Los Angeles Lakers played their first home game on Thursday night, and wasted no time showing love to a late legend within their organization.
Longtime public-address announcer Lawrence Tanter died at the end of September at the age of 76 years old. He started his role with the team in 1982 and his career spanned 43 years before he retired near the end of the 2025-26 season.
Announcer Lawrence Tanter poses for a photo prior to a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Denver Nuggets at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015. NBAE via Getty Images
After a brief highlight reel of Tanter’s iconic moments and player introductions, a new P.A. announcer said, “Lawrence Tanter was more than the voice of your Los Angeles Lakers. His unmistakable voice was the soundtrack to generations of Lakers basketball, and some of the most memorable moments in franchise history.
“Tonight, we remember L.T. as a cherished member of the Lakers’ family, and a voice that will forever echo through this arena. Please join us for a moment of silence in honor of the legendary Lawrence Tanter,” it continued.
Lakers pay tribute to longtime announcer Lawrence Tanter who passed away recently pic.twitter.com/lmBLtOpnuU
The Lakers’ roster also honored Tanter on the court by producing a 114-110 victory against Sacramento.
Tanter had suffered a stroke near the end of the Lakers’ last season and missed the final six games of their regular season, plus their five postseason home games.
Los Angeles Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter is seen during an NBA basketball game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples Center in Los Angeles on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017. Tanter, the former public address announcer for the Lakers, passed away at the age of 76. MediaNews Group via Getty ImagesAustin Reaves and Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers look on against the Sacramento Kings during the first quarter of a preseason game at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Oct. 8, 2026. Getty Images
Another strong regular season, sure. But these Yankees again did not complete the final group project – win the World Series. What does that mean for their SNY report card?
Remember: Players are graded against their own standards and expectations, not against each other.
The Bronx Bombers will not win the World Series in 2026, so the general manager’s final grade gets dinged. "Running it back" was good enough to get to the playoffs and win a round, but the Yanks ended with the same ALDS exit as last season. Cashman tried to help at the deadline, but his biggest deal, for Luis García Jr., will have its real evaluation in 2027. The addition of Heliot Ramos didn’t really help. But Cashman also resisted an overpay trade for Adley Rutschman, leaving him chips to potentially use this winter, which will be a big one for a Yankee team trying to end a World Series title drought dating back to 2009. It may be frustrating that they haven’t won it all since then, but Cashman’s teams get to the postseason – 2026 was his 29th year at the helm, and his squad has missed out on October baseball just five times in that span.
Just like Cashman, the manager gets points off his final grade for failing to win the World Series. Still, he had a strong year as the Yankees went 93-68 and beat the Red Sox in the Wild Card Series. Aaron Judge missed significant time during the regular season and was down for the playoffs. Giancarlo Stanton and Max Fried (among others) missed time, too. Boone helped create an effective bullpen after key pieces fizzled. In Game 2 in Tampa Bay, the Yanks experienced a repeat of the defensive disaster from Game 5 of the 2024 World Series. While Boone doesn’t wear a glove, that redux calls into question the club’s culture under his management. Could he have shaken up a snoozing October lineup sooner? Maybe. His job status is an annual debate this time of year, but at least two key Yanks – Judge and Cam Schlittler – offered strong public support for Boone following the final loss.
GRADE: B
Oct 5, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone looks on during the fourth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays in game two of the ALDS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Tropicana Field. / Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
BEN RICE
With Judge on the shelf for so long, Rice was the biggest threat in the lineup and continued his ascension as a hitter. He was third in the AL in OPS (.897) and fourth in homers (41) and RBI (97), and then went 8-for-19 (.421) with four homers in five postseason games.
GRADE: A
CODY BELLINGER
Bellinger's numbers dipped compared to last season (SLG down from .480 to .429) and he batted just .190 in the playoffs. However, he still led Yankee position players in bWAR, thanks to his all-around game.
GRADE: B
AARON JUDGE
Limited to just 66 games due to injuries, which kept him out of the playoffs entirely, Judge's numbers weren’t up to his usual lofty standards when he did play, with his .871 OPS being 273 points below his full season production in ‘25.
GRADE: C
JAZZ CHISHOLM JR.
High-ceiling talent didn’t produce equivalent results for Jazz, though he was third in the AL in steals (41). He slugged 19 homers, but his OPS fell 102 points to .711 and he batted just .182 in the playoffs. Chisholm also played a key role in the ALDS Game 2 defensive debacle, and was left out of the starting lineup by Boone against a righty (Nick Martinez) in a playoff elimination game.
GRADE: C-
Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Jonathan Aranda (8) hits a single and slides to the base during the first inning against the New York Yankees in game two of the ALDS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Tropicana Field. / Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images
PAUL GOLDSCHMIDT
The ageless wonder performed perfectly in his platoon role, recording a .967 OPS and 11 home runs against left-handed pitchers. Only eight MLB players hit more longballs against lefties than Goldy. He added seven home runs against righties, too.
GRADE: A
RYAN MCMAHON
McMahon hit 11 homers in 124 games and had an uninspiring .635 OPS. His error in ALDS Game 2 and some ordinary defensive metrics sap his grade, given his reputation and past performance as a top-tier defensive third baseman.
GRADE: D+
GEORGE LOMBARD JR.
The promising 21-year-old shortstop could have a big future after notching a .699 OPS and seven homers in 42 games. Lombard showed the competitive makeup to handle rookie growing pains, including a fielding slump in which he made an error in six straight games. Like the rest of the infield, Lombard had a rough Game 2 against Tampa Bay.
GRADE: C+
SPENCER JONES
Yes, Jones strikes out too much (36.3 strikeout percentage in 2026, 14 points higher than MLB average), but he’s crazy athletic and powerful and could bloom into something special. 11 homers, 10 steals, and a .742 OPS in 86 games is very encouraging.
GRADE: B
TRENT GRISHAM
Grisham regressed in all facets from his 2025 season, finishing with 18 homers, a .211 average and .703 OPS. He also went 0-for-11 against the Rays in the Division Series.
GRADE: C-
New York Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham (12) reacts after striking out during the seventh inning against the Tampa Bay Rays in game three of the ALDS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. / Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
AUSTIN WELLS
Wells had an odd season. He was dreadful offensively for so long that the Yanks were trying to trade for a catcher at the deadline, but he repaid Cashman's faith in him with an .800 OPS over his final 48 games. He was also the Yanks' second-best hitter in the playoffs (.333, four RBI), but inexplicably gambled on the basepaths trying to leg out a triple in Game 1 against Tampa Bay. As usual, he was very good defensively, including with ABS challenges.
GRADE: C+
LUIS GARCIA JR.
Garcia would have been the perfect deadline acquisition if he were a right-handed hitter. Still, he brought a power threat to a lineup that sorely needed it, even if the numbers weren’t overwhelming after he arrived (seven homers, .736 OPS in 43 games).
GRADE: C
JOSE CABALLERO
Caballero annoys opponents (trust us, that’s a compliment) and offers elite speed (34 steals) and versatility. He played six different positions and hit a career-best 14 homers. I think he should’ve gotten more playing time in the playoffs -- he might have really vexed his old team, the Rays.
GRADE: B
ANTHONY VOLPE
Volpe deserves kudos for his response to getting sent down – he returned with the ability to play second base, and ended up being a late-season contributor at the plate. In fact, he was one of the few Yankees who showed up against the Rays (3-for-7, nearly left the yard in Game 3). He’s not the shortstop of the future anymore, but he might be the starting second baseman should the Yanks let Chisholm walk this offseason.
GRADE: B-
HELIOT RAMOS
The Yanks needed a righty outfield bat at the deadline, but Ramos didn’t add much over 38 games, batting a paltry .198 with four homers and a .688 OPS. He was also a nonfactor during the playoffs, although Boone probably should've inserted him as a pinch runner for Goldschmidt in the eighth inning of Game 3 against the Rays.
GRADE: D
Aug 4, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Heliot Ramos (34) runs off the field after the top of the sixth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Yankee Stadium. / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
CAM SCHLITTLER
Schlittler's 1.95 ERA was the third-lowest single-season figure in Yankee history, and he became the 11th pinstriped starting pitcher to win the ERA title. Simply put, Schlittler authored one of the great pitching seasons in team history en route to a presumptive AL Cy Young award, and proved the Yankees have a new ace.
GRADE: A+
GERRIT COLE
The 36-year-old returned from Tommy John surgery and the results were mostly pretty good, from a 3.61 ERA in 22 regular season starts to a five-inning, one-run postseason start. There’s more in the tank here, and that's great news for everyone involved.
GRADE: B
MAX FRIED
He pitched very well when healthy (2.80 ERA in 20 starts), though his left elbow could be an ongoing concern. After allowing one run in six innings in the Wild Card Series, the Yanks needed that again in the ALDS, but Fried did not deliver, allowing four runs in 5.2 frames against the Rays, which dings his grade.
GRADE: B+
CARLOS RODON
Rodon was incredibly hard to hit all season, recording just 5.4 hits allowed per nine innings. With a 2.67 ERA in 16 starts, he was probably the Yanks' best pitcher late in the season excluding Schlittler, which makes it all the more weird that he did not pitch in the playoffs.
GRADE: A-
New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodon (55) hands the ball to manager Aaron Boone during a pitching change in the fifth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field / Benny Sieu - Imagn Images
WILL WARREN
Warren is a capable back-end arm who might have more upside, evidenced by his 3.92 ERA over 156 innings in 2026.
GRADE: B-
RYAN WEATHERS
Weathers was tremendous over his final six starts (1.29 ERA) before getting hurt. He returned to make two scoreless relief appearances in the playoffs, showcasing his versatility.
GRADE: B
DAVID BEDNAR
The Yankees couldn't ask for more from their closer. Bednar is dependable, difficult to hit (6.8 hits-per-nine) and suppresses home runs (0.5 HR/9). He saved 35 games in 39 chances and had a streak of 29 appearances without a blown save that lasted nearly three months. He also pitched two scoreless innings of relief in Game 3 against the Rays.
GRADE: A
BRENT HEADRICK
Headrick was the lefty relief revelation of 2026 in the Bronx. He was nigh-unhittable entering August (1.30 ERA), but regressed as his workload mounted, recording a 4.30 ERA over the final two months. Regardless, his final numbers in a strong setup season: 2.18 ERA over 81 appearances. Young by reliever standards (28 years old).
GRADE: A-
PAUL BLACKBURN
The former back-end starter was transitioned into an elite setup or multi-inning bullpen weapon in 2026. Blackburn notched more than three outs in a single appearance a whopping 32 times in 69 games, notched a 1.69 ERA, and was clearly the most-trusted October reliever (six shutout innings in four appearances). A career-changing year for the 32-year-old righty.
(Photo by Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images) | Getty Images
We are still in the early stages of the 2026-27 NHL season, but there are some trends emerging that are worth paying attention to when it comes to the larger narrative of the season. Whether it’s gambles that paid off in free agency, prospects emerging, or teams languishing in the pain of the season already — there’s plenty to keep an eye on moving forward.
The New York Rangers have been an early surprise to kick off the year. Currently in 1st place in the Metropolitan Division, this team has some important wins already by beating the Utah Mammoth, a playoff-caliber team in the West — and, more surprisingly, a 5-1 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning, believed by many to have Stanley Cup potential out of the East.
The Rangers have been fantastic defensively, only allowing eight goals so far — good for 3rd in the NHL. It certainly helps when you have Igor Shesterkin in goal, but beyond that the defensive unit is just playing really solid hockey. The team has grown offensively through trading away Artemi Panarin, playing a more holistic game which includes more skaters. Alexis Lafrenière is beginning to show glimpses of the potential that made him a No. 1 overall pick, Mika Zibanejad is solid as ever, but the emergence of Gabriel Perreault is something to really focus on. Perreault has been fantastic to start the season, and if the Rangers have found themselves an elite top-line wing then this team has the potential to be a major surprise throughout the season.
Beyond the Rangers there are a handful of other developments to keep an eye on.
The Dallas Stars are WEIRD
This team made the bold choice of keeping the band together in the offseason by re-signing Jason Robertson to a one-year deal in an attempt to make a run, sacrificing their already waning depth in the process. So far it’s impossible to know what this team really is. They had convincing wins over the Sabres and Sharks, two solid teams who should be in the mix — but also dropped to the Predators and Blues, teams they should easily beat.
The key to the season is going to be whether or not those first two losses were rink rust, or if they’re indicative of the same inconsistency which has marred the Stars the last couple of seasons.
The East is going through a shakeup
It’s astonishing that already in this season we’re seeing the Canadiens and Flyers down at the bottom of the table. The Canadiens’ defense is atrocious, giving up 19 goals in four games — putting the team in positions where they just can’t win, even with prolific scoring nights.
Things for the Flyers are even worse, because they just can’t score a dang thing. Boasting only six goals in five games, the Flyers are the worst-scoring team in the league — slipping lower than last season, where they already struggled. There hasn’t been the offensive leap forward for Trevor Zegras or Matvei Mitchkov many hoped for, and now the defense is porous as well. It’s going to be a long season for the Flyers if this continues.
On the other side of the ledger, we have the aforementioned Rangers who are surging, but also the Senators, Capitals, and Islanders — all of whom have taken a step forward. It’s going to be fascinating to see whether or not these teams can keep pace.
Carolina’s goaltending problems continue
It’s early, but the defending champs have major goaltending issues oncemore. After famously making the switch to Brandon Bussi during the Stanley Cup finals, hopes were high that the Canes had finally found someone in the net who could make things happen.
Instead, it’s been an exceptionally ugly start to the year. Despite having a defense that has only allowed 105 shots in five games, Bussi’s save percentage is .851 with a 3.24 GAA. Backup Pyotr Kotchekov isn’t faring much better, also having a sub-.900 save percentage. This team has been able to overcome goaltending issues for the last several years, but it’s clear they need a major shakeup to hope to compete this season — because their hot goal scoring won’t last forever.
The Flames might be the worst team … ever
Nobody expected Calgary to be good this year, but the Flames are a disaster to start the season. Not only are they 0-4, but have a staggering -17 goal differential to kick off the year. Nothing is going right, as the Flames can’t score, can’t defend, can’t stop shots — can’t do anything really.
If this lingers into November it’s going to be time to start the “worst of all time” watch. That is held by the 1974-75 Washington Capitals, who went 8-67-5 with a -265 differential. The Flames are on pace for a -349.
The Maple Leafs have taken a tentative step forward
Plenty of time for them to screw this up, but right now things are looking pretty good for the Leafs *knock on wood*. They might only be 2-2-1, but they’re playing teams close and look more cohesive on both ends of the ice.
Jim Hiller was a questionable hire, but so far the former LA Kings coach has Toronto playing more organized hockey. Gavin McKenna is also well ahead of schedule with three points in five games, and playing with more confidence every time he hits the ice.
Realistically we may still be a couple of years from this team competing, but they look pretty good.
DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 24: Colorado Rockies fans wear bags over their heads as they watch the Rockies play the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, at Coors Field in Denver. The Rockies lost 12-8 in their final home game of the season. (Photo by RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) | Denver Post via Getty Images
Outside of losing 100 games again, another negative trend continued for the Colorado Rockies in 2026.
With the fourth-straight season of 100 or more losses in the books, the Rockies also logged their worst season of attendance since 2006 this year (not including no fans in 2020 and a fan-limited 2021 because of COVID).
In total, 2,245,426 fans walked into Coors Field this season. That number is the third lowest in team history, trailing only 2005 (1,914,389) and 2006 (2,104,362). It also marks the third consecutive season the total attendance has dropped, as the Rockies have fallen from No. 15, to No. 16 to No. 18.
The numbers for the last 25 seasons paint an interesting picture: one of an eager fan base, but also one that is slowing tapering off each year. Maybe that’s why it feels like there are more and more opposing fans, especially for teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs.
Season
Record
Total Atten.
Total Rank
Ave. Game Att.
2026
58-104
2,245,426
18th
27,721
2025
43-119
2,404,613
16th
30,057
2024
61-101
2,540,295
15th
31,361
2023
59-103
2,607,935
13th
32,196
2022
68-94
2,597,428
10th
32,467
2021
74-87
1,938,645
9th
23,934
2020
26-34
—
2019
71-91
2,993,224
6th
36,954
2018
91-72
3,015,880
7th
37,233
2017
87-75
2,953,650
8th
36,465
2016
75-87
2,602,524
11th
32,130
2015
68-94
2,506,789
14th
30,948
2014
66-96
2,680,329
10th
33,090
2013
74-88
2,793,828
10th
34,492
2012
64-98
2,630,458
13th
32,475
2011
73-89
2,909,777
12th
35,923
2010
83-79
2,875,245
10th
35,497
2009
92-70
2,665,080
11th
32,902
2008
74-88
2,650,218
13th
32,719
2007
90-73
2,376,250
17th
28,979
2006
76-86
2,104,362
23rd
25,979
2005
67-95
1,914,389
26th
23,929
2004
68-94
2,338,069
15th
29,595
2003
74-88
2,334,085
15th
28,815
2002
73-89
2,737,918
9th
33,801
While the running joke of Coors Field being the best bar in Denver remains true, and people still come to 20th and Blake each year, the numbers are dropping. You can see that in the average game attendance, which dropped from 30,057 in 2025 when the Rockies lost 119 games to 27,721 this year. Sure, many of those fans were cheering for the other teams, but it still results in revenue for the Rockies.
It was not enough revenue, however, to avoid raising season ticket prices 12% (read more on Walker Monfort’s justifcation for the hike here).
Despite recording their eighth-straight losing season, the Rockies still had more fans in attendance in 2026 than four other teams with winning records, including three current playoff teams: the Cleveland Guardians, Chicago White Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays.
They also set a new record for least tickets sold — 16,301 — for a single game when they beat the Houston Astros 9-7 on Monday, April 6. While some games early in the season can have snow and freezing temperatures, that wasn’t the excuse that day. The high was 68 degrees and the skies were sunny.
Confirming that the #Rockies announced crowd of 16,301 Monday night was the lowest in franchise history (non-COVID seasons). @MaseDenver was the first to report that.
This has to hit the front office even harder because the overall attendance is up in Major League Baseball.
For the fourth-straight year, there were more fans who went to games. In the 2026 regular season, the total reached 71.75 million. That’s partially due to the Tampa Bay Rays being back at Tropicana Field, but still includes the A’s playing at Sutter Health Park — a Triple-A stadium — in West Sacramento.
Even though a lot seemed the same for the Rockies this year, it was the first year of a new front office and new philosophies, as well as manager Warren Schaeffer’s first full season in charge. Change doesn’t happened immediately. It takes time.
As much as the Rockies want to be like the Chicago White Sox, the chances of them righting the ship to the playoffs in 2027 doesn’t seem very likely. The turnaround did a lot for the White Sox fans, who went from 540,687 fans in 2025 to 1,986,425 in 2026.
The Rockies improved by 15 wins from 2025 to 2026. If they did that again in 2027, that would result in a 73-89 record. It’s not .500, but I would bet it would land more fans in seats. Hopefully, more of those fans would be cheering for the home team.
MACAO, CHINA - OCTOBER 9: Cooper Flagg #32 of the Dallas Mavericks and Morez Johnson Jr. #14 of the Dallas Mavericks hug before the game against the Houston Rockets as part of 2026 NBA China Games on October 9, 2026 in Macao, China at Venetian Arena. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The Dallas Mavericks were routed by the Houston Rockets, 135-117, in an early-morning preseason matchup on Friday. The game was the Mavericks’ first of two in Macao as they face the Rockets in the NBA China Preseason miniseries. Dallas echoed the same offensive struggles they faced throughout last season in Friday’s loss.
Kyrie Irving, Dereck Lively, Santi Aldama, PJ Washington, Marcus Sasser, and Caleb Martin were held out for the Mavericks.
Here are four stats to know from Friday morning’s preseason loss.
1: Daniel Gafford 3-pointer
Daniel Gafford attempted one career three-pointer ahead of Friday’s preseason matchup with the Rockets. He attempted and made a spot-up three off a kick-out from Sergio de Larrea in the first quarter, to everyone’s surprise, except maybe his new coach.
Under head coach Dusty May’s new offense, he has challenged Gafford to expand his game and take threes as he continues to “earn the right.” Gafford saw just eight minutes of action in Friday’s blowout loss, finishing with seven points, three rebounds and one steal. The Mavericks will need more rebounding from Gafford, with Lively having no timetable to return, but it was pleasant to see the start of growth in his offensive game today.
8: Dwight Powell assists
Dwight Powell finished today’s matchup with a unique stat line of one point, one rebound and eight assists. His regular-season career-high in assists is eight, and he matched that number against the Rockets, leading the Mavericks in that category. Powell is the longest-tenured Maverick, and the leadership and professionalism he has shown throughout his career make him a valuable vet to any locker room. If he continues to contribute to the Mavericks’ bench in the preseason, the Mavericks will have to seriously consider putting him on the final roster heading into opening night.
35% vs. 50%: Mavericks vs. Rockets three-point efficiency
The Mavericks lost the three-point battle today, shooting 35% to the Rockets’ 50%. The shooting discrepancy put the Mavs in a hole they couldn’t dig themselves out of. Yet, still, a glimmer of hope — Dallas hoisted 51 threes today. They were willing shooters, at least, even if not particularly effective. That number exceeds their average attempts per game last season by 20! The Mavericks will be looking to shoot a lot more under May, but will need to see their shots fall at a higher clip, or the 3-point disparity will again be a season-long story.
19: Cooper Flagg points
Cooper Flagg only played in the first half, scoring 19 points in 19 minutes. He added six rebounds, three assists, two stocks, and shot 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. He started the first quarter slowly, with just two points, but heated up in the second quarter. In the second quarter, he seemed more assertive offensively, attempting four threes. His jump shot looked more fluid, a testament to the offseason work he has put in. Flagg’s performance in the first preseason game shows he is poised to take an offensive leap this year and emerge as a bonafide star in the league.
Up next
Set your alarms for Sunday at 5 am CT as the Mavericks and Rockets run it back on NBA TV and mavs.com.
In an effort to quiet the talk around contract extensions for Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart — talks that were becoming a distraction less than two weeks before they raise a championship banner in Madison Square Garden — the New York Knicks announced they are tabling all extension talks with eligible players until later in the season.
"As an organization, our entire focus is on preparing for the upcoming season and delivering another year for our fans to be proud of. As a result, we will not be negotiating contract extensions until later in the season and will remain solely focused on preparing for the start of the season."
This applies to four players: Towns, Hart, and guards Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek.
How big an issue has Towns' frustration with contract talks become? Last night, after the NBA TV broadcast of the Knicks vs. Wizards preseason game, NBA Insider Chris Haynes gave another update on contract extension talks between Towns and the Knicks (echoing earlier reports that Towns wasn't asking for the max, but the sides were far apart). That's on the NBA's own network. Questions about extensions for Towns and Hart have become a near-daily talking point around the team.
Postponing the talks may quiet things for a while and cool the rhetoric a little, but it doesn't resolve the underlying issues. Without someone (or someones) taking a massive discount, it's going to be impossible for the Knicks to keep their championship core together in a couple of years and stay under the second apron of the luxury tax, and owner James Dolan has repeatedly said it would be "suicidal" to go over that line. Players may be open to small discounts to help the team, but not massive ones.
Using Towns as an example, he is eligible for a four-year, $276 million extension, but said he is willing to take a discount to help the team. The Knicks reportedly offered four years, $200 million, which would require a healthy pay cut from the $57.1 million he will make this season, let alone in future years. Towns has said he feels he has earned a payday, coming off a season where he averaged 20.1 points and 11.9 rebounds per game and was critical to the Knicks winning an NBA title. Recently, Towns was asked whether he felt he should be rewarded for his role leading the Knicks to a championship.
"No s***, Sherlock."
This move by Knicks management kicks the can down the road, but the issue isn’t going away. By the start of the 2028-29 season, there very likely will be a Jalen Brunson extension — don't expect him to take a $113 million discount again — plus Towns and Hart extensions, and an OG Anunoby extension could begin that season. Paying all of them market rate and keeping this team together is going to be next to impossible.
The Knicks just don't want everyone talking about that on Oct. 20, when they raise their first championship banner in 53 years and Adam Silver hands out championship rings. You can watch that ceremony on NBC and Peacock beginning at 7 p.m. Eastern, part of an opening day triple-header featuring the Celtics at Pistons (3 p.m. ET), 76ers and LeBron James at the Knicks on ring night, then capped off by Thunder at Spurs and Victor Wembanyama (9:30 p.m. ET).
Jeanie Buss, sports executive, controlling owner, and President of the Los Angeles Lakers, is seen during the Slovenia national basketball team training session ahead of the FIBA EuroBasket in Katowice, Poland, on August 27, 2025. (Photo by Marcin Golba/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images
“Our focus has always been what we believe is the best for the Lakers…”
That line came from a joint statement the Buss siblings released in August, as it became clear a battle was coming over the fate of the trust’s share in the Lakers. This week, the siblings made their stance on selling their minority stake in the team official by filing a formal opposition to Jeanie Buss’ claim that they do not have the right to do so.
To be clear, this is not an argument for or against the new owners, Bob Iger and Josh Kushner. They’re bringing plenty of baggage into this role as well.
Instead, this is an argument that it’s time for the Buss family to move on from the franchise. Is that their true intention behind this move? Almost assuredly not. But call it cashing out. Call it spite or pettiness. Whatever the reasoning, they’re arriving at the solution that best serves the franchise.
Compare their messaging to that of Jeanie Buss’s. Her letter from her lawyer focused heavily on court orders mandating the family vote for her to remain the controlling owner of the Lakers. Her petition portrayed her as the one who had to come in once again and save the day from her scheming family. It suggested that the family trust’s best interest is to retain its stake in the team as franchise values skyrocket.
Does that sound like someone who has the Lakers front of mind? One side is doing what’s best for the Lakers — albeit while receiving a massive payday in doing so — while the other side is not.
Dr. Jerry Buss’ reign as owner was fruitful, but his children’s era has been far from it. The team does have a title to its name in that timeframe, but the Buss family has also had twice as many court appearances in that same span.
Long has the league moved past the Buss family. The lack of finances became more and more of an issue in recent years. The sale to Mark Walter seemed to be the perfect opportunity for a graceful exit as they faded into the background.
But that was always a far-fetched pipe dream. Realistically, there was only one way the Buss family was going to leave the franchise and graceful was never going to be the word used. A messy, unceremonious, contentious exit is far more fitting for the Jeanie Buss era.
This latest drama isn’t going away any time soon. The Buss siblings, at least publicly, are leaving open the door for this all to have an amicable ending, as shown with their statement to The Athletic on Wednesday.
“Jimmy, Johnny, Janie, Joey and Jesse Buss, the five of six siblings who voted to sell the Trust’s shares in the Lakers, today filed their formal opposition, demonstrating that Jeanie Buss’s petition is legally and factually baseless,” the siblings said in a statement given to The Athletic.
“While discussions among the siblings continue, their focus remains on facilitating the proposed transaction and the Trust’s participation in it, while ensuring that all beneficiaries, including Jeanie, are treated equally. Today’s filing is a necessary step to protect those interests and ensure the transaction proceeds on schedule.”
Jeanie, meanwhile, is likely motivated by the agreement she made with Mark Walter to not only be the governor for the next five years but, as reported by Dan Woike of The Athletic, to potentially do so even after.
In addition to negotiating a five-year term as the Lakers’ governor following the sale to Walter, Jeanie Buss secured an agreement allowing her to remain the team’s alternate governor beyond that period, provided she or her affiliated entities retain at least a five-percent ownership stake in the Lakers, according to Wednesday’s filing.
Her interests are pretty clear. She wants to remain a controlling voice of the Lakers. It seems to matter little to her that, at this point, fans likely won’t be receptive to her. Yet another messy, public fight between the siblings has sapped any remaining sympathy many fans had for her.
Most, if not all, are ready to move on from the Buss family. It’s a matter of their own doing with Jeanie at the forefront. If you had told Lakers fans in the mid-2000s that a day would come when they would be ready for the Buss family to sell the team, few might have believed you.
But a long history of mismanagement with plenty of in-fighting, selfishness, spite and pettiness mixed in has gotten us to this point. Now, it’s in the best interest of the Lakers for the family to take their hundreds of millions of dollars and move on…
Opener’s painful duck gets tourists’ series off to bad start
Renshaw and Cummins keep hosts’ attack at bay
If we accept that sporting tenures are results-based, then the Australian selectors George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide should be conferring with the coach Andrew McDonald to submit a mass resignation. The opening moments of the first Test in Durban were enough to return the predictable harvest of one of the most bizarre selection decisions ever made for the national XI, with Nic Maddinson bowled for a torturous 33-ball duck, early impetus for Australia’s slide to 187 for 6 by the time bad light ended play.
Maddinson should not have lasted half that long, nailed on the pad by Wiaan Mulder after 15 balls but spared by umpire error and a timid South African non-review. Even that huge slice of luck never looked like becoming anything more. His innings went nowhere, shuffling, defensive, missing opportunities on his legs, dealing in extras. His only shots were a few cuts hurled at wild width, all air-swings until the bottom edge that took out his stumps.
It’s not a stretch to say that the Philadelphia 76ers’ championship hopes still rest on the broad shoulders of Joel Embiid even after bringing in LeBron James and Jaylen Brown over the offseason. It’s not just that Embiid was arguably the best player in the NBA as recently as Jan. 2024, but also that Philly just doesn’t have much center depth behind him, particularly after backup Ariel Hukporti already suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in the preseason.
LeBron made his Sixers debut in the team’s second preseason game on Thursday night, but Embiid stole the show in the worst way possible. With the caveat that it’s only preseason … Embiid looked absolutely atrocious during his 24 minutes on the floor, and it already feels like a legitimate concern for the 76ers.
Embiid shot 1-of-5 from the floor and finished with eight turnovers in 24 minutes against the Brooklyn Nets. Those numbers don’t even capture how viscerally washed he looked. Embiid already had a few terrible plays early in the game, but he went mega-viral for this pathetic fastbreak attempt midway through the second quarter. Embiid was thrown a perfect alley-oop, but he didn’t jump for it, and then missed the easy layup. Watch the play all of NBA Twitter was talking about here:
Is Joel Embiid physically capable of jumping? I’m not sure after watching this clip. Seems important for a basketball player, even if you’re over 7-feet tall like Embiid.
Embiid was bad from the very start of the game, airballing a fadeaway on his first touch. He was making some incredibly sloppy decisions with the ball as Nets defenders crashed down on him in the paint, and just looked like he wasn’t locked in at all on either side of the floor. Maybe there’s nothing Embiid could have done about his physical downfall in the last couple years since his peak, but it almost feels more concerning that he’s making so many mental mistakes. This is not what you want out of the seventh highest paid player in the NBA at a tick below $58 million this season.
The Sixers are pretty deep elsewhere on the roster after a quality offseason that saw them sign Dean Wade, Anfernee Simons, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to the bench while drafting Labaron Philon out of Alabama. The one spot where the roster is really thin is at center, and that was true even before Hukporti’s Achilles tear.
Realistically, how many games can the Sixers count on Embiid to play? Over/under 45? That is going to put immense pressure on backup Adem Bona, and the Sixers are going to need some more big bodies after him. Embiid really won’t help the team much regardless of how often he plays if he’s this lackadaisical mentally and physically.
There was already a report in training camp that Embiid showed up to practice late — a theme throughout his career — and got yelled at by LeBron. Both Embiid and James shot down the report, and ESPN apologized for it. Embiid gave another sad sack comment on the report after the game:
Joel Embiid on the recent report about LeBron James getting on him for being late: "I don't know where that came from. It never happened. … One, it's not true. And then again it's like, 'Why me?' But I guess I'm Joel Embiid, I've been in this situation."
Embiid’s professionalism has always been a question even when he was at his peak. He’s slipped so much physically at this point that he can’t afford any mental mistakes. Embiid seems like he has a “woe is me” attitude far too often. I certainly have some empathy for the amount of injuries he’s dealt with, but at a certain point making a bunch of excuses isn’t a good look for a player who is this highly paid.
Yes, it’s the preseason. It’s totally possible that the Sixers look great by May, and Embiid is a big part of the team on both ends of the floor. It’s troubling that the veteran center looks so bad after a long summer where he dropped weight and seemed to show a new commitment to his body. The Sixers are loaded offensively, but it’s only going to work if Embiid can step up defensively and on the glass. There’s no safety net behind him anymore.
It’s silly to overreact to preseason, but this game will at least serve as an important note in the Sixers’ story whether they end the season as champions or fail to win a playoff series. Embiid looked awful in his first preseason game. Let’s see where he goes from here.
NBA preseason action has returned to Macao, China, where the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will play in a two-game series.
Friday’s opening matchup at The Venetian Arena saw the Mavericks’ offense shine, led by reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, along with strong performances from Naji Marshall, Zaccharie Risacher and Max Christie.
Despite their efforts, the Mavericks fell 135-117 to a seasoned Rockets squad. Houston was led by Kevin Durant, who began his 19th NBA season, along with Fred VanVleet and Amen Thompson.
Beyond the games, this preseason trip offers an immersive experience both on and off the court. The Venetian Arena will become a basketball hub featuring NBA House, an interactive expo that blends music, live entertainment, fashion and retail experiences to celebrate basketball culture.
Fans will also have the chance to participate in NBA Fan Day on Saturday, Oct. 10, an event where they can interact with players and enjoy performances by top Asian artists. These festivities set the stage for the second preseason game on Sunday, Oct. 11.
The NBA China Games bring two preseason matchups between the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets at The Venetian Arena in Macao on Oct. 9 and 11 at 6 a.m. ET.
Fans in the U.S. can watch the NBA China Games on NBA TV and NBA League Pass.
Why are the Rockets so popular in China?
The Houston Rockets rose to popularity in China largely thanks to Chinese basketball legend Yao Ming. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft, Yao spent all nine seasons with the Rockets before retiring in 2011.
NBA's other international showcases
This season, the NBA has five events outside the U.S.
Beyond the doubleheader contests in China and the Canada Game in Quebec City, the NBA’s international calendar features additional stops in Mexico City, Paris and Manchester.
Here is a look at the International showcase schedule (times ET)
