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Top Colorado Avalanche Prospects to Watch in 2025–26

With the 2025-26 NHL season shortly underway, some minor leagues have already started for some Colorado Avalanche prospects. Their prospect pool might not be as "promising" with the recent regular season success of the Avalanche and drafting at the end of rounds, and them trading away their remaining prospects and draft picks to try and win another Stanley Cup, they still have some key names you should keep an eye on this season.

Max Curran (C/LW), Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

Drafted 161st overall in the fifth round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Curran’s draft year was his rookie season with the Tri-City Americans in the WHL, where he finished with five goals and 27 assists for 32 points in 40 games, and did not make the playoffs. Last year, he experienced a significant surge in production, finishing with 22 goals and 52 assists for 74 points in 65 games, leading the team in assists and points and ranking third in goals. He helped the Americans secure a playoff spot but lost in the first round to the Victoria Royals in five games, during which he scored one goal and two assists for three points in the series.

This summer, he was traded to the Edmonton Oil Kings and is expected to join NHL prospects, including Blake Fiddler (Kraken), Adam Jecho (Blues), and Miroslav Holinka (Leafs). At 6-foot-3, 187 pounds, Curran's playmaking ability is what really stands out in his game.  He is capable of playing both center and wing, but has spent most of his career at the center position.  His intelligence on the ice is arguably his greatest asset. He possesses an elite hockey IQ, distributes the puck exceptionally well, and has an underrated shot when given enough time to take it. In his season debut, he already recorded one assist.

Linus Funck (D), London Knights (OHL)

Drafted in the fourth round of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, Linus Funck was coming off his second season with Lulea HF J20 in the J20 Nationell Swedish league. He finished with five goals and 23 assists for 28 points, leading all defense on his team in assists and points and sixth on his team in points.

“Funck uses his reach to kill rushes on top of the blue line and creates breakups along the wall with his physical presence. He is also highly effective on retrievals, mostly through smart first-touch passes." - EliteProspects 

The London Knights in the OHL signed Funck to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. He now gets the chance to play with some notable prospects like Sam O’Reilly (Lightning), Sam Dickinson (Sharks), Henry Brzustewicz (Kings), and potentially Easton Cowen (Leafs). He has already played in two games, registering one goal and one assist.

Christian Humphreys (RW/C), Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

After being drafted in the seventh round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Humphreys joined the University of Michigan after playing with the USNTDP Juniors, but struggled, only producing one assist in ten games. He would turn his year around by signing with the OHL Kitchener Rangers on an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Joining the team late into the season, Humphreys still managed to finish with 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 points in 28 games. 

"Humphreys is always positioned in the right spot. He racks up the touches by staying inside space in the offensive zone and perfectly timed reloading routes in transition. He meticulously breaks down opposing defences by slowing down, deceiving, and waiting for his target to pop free before connecting with a precise long-range pass. A disruptive defensive game and steals on the forecheck round out his game."- EliteProspects

Heading into his second season now with the team and returning prospects like Jack Pridham (Blackhawks), Cameron Reid (Predators), and Luca Romano (Islanders), Humphreys looks to have a productive full season. He has already started hot, producing three assists in his first two games.

Mikhail Gulyayev (D),  Avangard Omsk (KHL)

The second of two first-round picks the Avalanche had in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, Gulyayev has been improving his game in the KHL over the past three seasons. Last season, he finished with seven goals and eight assists for 15 points in 67 games, setting new career highs in goals and points. 

"Man, can Mikhail Gulyayev fly out there. You give him an inch, and he’s sprinted a mile past you with about as effortless and clean a stride as you’ve ever seen. It’s the defining characteristic of his game; the foundation on which every other part rests. Every bit as comfortable a defensive skater, Gulyayev gaps up early, often attacks puck carriers on an arc, and always takes away the middle of the ice with his stick." - EliteProspects

The most significant factor for Gulyayev’s game is to see a notable increase in his point production. For an offensive defenseman, the intangibles are there: the skating, the puck movement, and an underrated shot. However, production would preferably be higher if you ask many. In nine games to start this season, he has one assist so far.

His contract is up this year, and it will be interesting to see how they handle signing him. He’s already 20 and turns 21 on April 26, so he is eligible to play in the AHL with the Colorado Eagles if they bring him over either at the end of his current season or at the start of next year. Alternatively, they could sign him and loan him back to the KHL for a year or two. 

Sean Behrens (D), Colorado Eagles (AHL)

What was supposed to be a big season for Behrens last year, after he finished his final season at the University of Denver, was cut short when he suffered a brutal knee injury during Colorado’s Eagle camp, causing him to miss the entire season. The second round pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft continued to show a great show of skill and development during his time at Denver University, and now back and healthy for this year's development camp and training camp, he looks to put his name back into the eyes of many and show what he can do.

"He surfs backwards with the perfect posture, a nice blend of risk-mitigating footwork and graceful crossunders on the backwards stride, and a good sense of when to close. He scans regularly off of the puck. He cuts opponents off at the hands, always from a low centre of gravity. He ties up loose sticks. He mitigates risk with his positioning. His motor never stops running." - EliteProspects

Joining the Eagles this year should be an excellent position for Behrens, as there could be a lot of opportunity to facilitate the offense from the blueline. Other defensemen, such as Alex Gagne, Saige Weinstein, or Wyatt Aamodt, or really any other defense on the roster, don’t possess the same level of skills and strategies that Behrens does. Therefore, expect a lot of offense to come from both on the 5-on-5 and the power play. 

Colorado Avalanche Rookie Squad Splits Their Two Rookie Showcase AppearancesColorado Avalanche Rookie Squad Splits Their Two Rookie Showcase AppearancesHighlands Ranch, Colo. - An exciting weekend for hockey fans showcased three teams, each with shining stars fully capable of playing at a higher level. The Vegas Golden Knights came away as the brightest squad, winning their first game 8-1 over the Utah Mammoth and their second 3-2 over the Colorado Avalanche. What’s Ahead for Samuel Girard and the Colorado Avalanche This Season?What’s Ahead for Samuel Girard and the Colorado Avalanche This Season?Heading into the offseason and examining the defense pairings, Samuel Girard's name has stood out to many fans and insiders as one that could or should be moved. Based on his cap hit and recent play, what should the Avalanche do this season with Girard?
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Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy details team's plan for Seth Curry's contract

Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy details team's plan for Seth Curry's contract originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Warriors are a family affair.

From the front office to the coaching staff and — with the Warriors’ signing of Seth Curry — even on the court.

Golden State general manager Mike Dunleavy made it known just exactly why they signed the younger Curry.

“I think any time you can add shooting in this league in this day and age, a guy who’s, what, top two, second-best 3-point shooter of all time by percentage — a couple other guys in this building today, they’re top three,” Dunleavy said Wednesday. “So, all about adding shooting. We’re looking forward to having him.”

Curry, who isn’t yet with the team, is a career 43.3-percent shooter from long range — seventh best in NBA history and six spots ahead of his brother Steph, who sits 13th at 42.3 percent.

While it took time to put pen to paper due to the Jonathan Kuminga situation, Dunleavy says the Warriors are expecting Curry to be at practice on Thursday.

Of course, that’s not the end of it, as Dunleavy stated the team still has to figure out some numbers to make it all make sense.

“As far as the season goes, yeah, he’s on a one-year deal, and we’ll figure it out as we go,” Dunleavy said. “There’s some cap and apron stuff that we’ve got to deal with, but that’s something for our strategy team to figure out.”

For now, the Warriors boast a pair of literal Splash Bros. And in a league where shooting the ball is all-important, it seems like it will be a solid fit.

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Happy 78th Birthday To The Hockey News

Oct. 1, 2025, marks a whopping 78 years since Ken McKenzie and Will Cote published the first edition of The Hockey News.

Before "The International Hockey Weekly" began, McKenzie and Cote had met and discussed their mutual interest of the sport at a Royal Canadian Air Force camp in Calgary during the Second World War.

After staying in touch, the NHL hired them in Montreal following the war. They received approval from NHL president Clarence Campbell to launch the publication, and they sent out a circular detailing The Hockey News' plans and subscription rates.

The Hockey News: It All Began On This Date in 1947The Hockey News: It All Began On This Date in 1947Co-founders Ken McKenzie and Will Cote planned for years before publishing their first edition – and we’re still going strong

"Most people would laugh and say, 'Ken, you'll lose your shirt,' but I believed in it so much that with little financial help, I had to get going," McKenzie told legendary CBC broadcaster Dick Irvin Jr. in 1978. "I couldn't wait to get out of the Canadian Air Force to get it started in 1947.

"The first press run was 5,000 (copies), and we finished the year with a circulation of approximately 20,000."

Please enjoy this archived video footage of McKenzie's interview with Irvin as The Hockey News enters its 79th season.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com.

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NBA season 2025-26 preview: Who can be this year's Indiana Pacers?

A year ago at this time, I projected the Indiana Pacers to be the No. 7 seed in the East, in a tier with teams seeded 5-8. Maybe they had an outside chance of making the top four if Philadelphia fell apart (which certainly happened). I projected the Pacers losing in the first round of the playoffs.

Obviously, I was wrong. Indiana finished as the 50-win No. 4 seed and made a playoff run all the way to Game 7 of the NBA Finals.

It begs the question: Which teams can be this season's Indiana? Here are three.

(Note: All these teams are from the Eastern Conference. I don't think an "I didn't see that coming" run can happen in the West. Who is coming out of nowhere in the West? Not championship teams Oklahoma City and Denver, not Houston with superstar Kevin Durant, not the Lakers with superstars (plural) LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Not Anthony Edwards and Minnesota, which has made the conference finals in back-to-back years. Any surprises come from the East.)

Orlando Magic

This is the trendy pick of a team going to make a giant leap. With good reason.

Orlando was the No. 7 seed in the East a season ago despite stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner missing considerable time with matching oblique injuries. Banchero is an All-NBA level player who averaged 29.5 points and 7.5 rebounds a game last season, while Wagner averaged 24.2 points and 5.7 rebounds a game and this summer led Germany to the EuroBasket title (alongside the Kings' Dennis Schroder).

What makes Orlando such a postseason threat is its defense, which was ranked second in the NBA last season and is led by lockdown players such as guard Jalen Suggs and big man Jonathan Isaac. This team plays D on a string. That should not change.

What Orlando needed to take the next step was shooting — to space the floor for Banchero and Wagner — and they got it with the addition of Desmond Bane, a career 41% from 3-point range who also can create his own shot and is a solid defender. The team also needed point guard depth and found that in the form of Tyus Jones. The offense is ready to take the next step.

Defense wins championships, and that cliche is why the Magic are a team that could jump from the No. 7 seed a year ago to the NBA Finals.

Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta has built the best roster it has ever had around Trae Young, entering his eighth NBA season. More importantly, this roster is designed to fit around Young's skill set.

The Hawks front office didn't just fill holes this summer, it found great fits. Atlanta needed a defensive rim protector in the paint who also could be a pick-and-pop partner for Young and found one in Kristaps Porzingis. They needed defense and shooting on the wing and got that with Nickeil Alexander-Walker (plus more shooting off the bench with the addition of Luke Kennard).

However, the biggest addition is the return of a healthy Jalen Johnson, who was averaging 18.9 points and 10 rebounds a game last season before an injury ended his career early. Zaccharie Risacher found his footing at the end of last season and is poised to make a leap this season.

All of that not only adds talent to the Hawks, but it also adds talent that fits perfectly with Young's game, which has matured over the past couple of seasons. There are front office personnel around the league convinced you can't build a genuine title contender around Trae Young because of his defense and shot selections. Atlanta has a roster that could prove that wrong — on paper. If this team comes together and stays healthy, a run from the No. 8 seed a year ago to the Finals is not out of the question.

Detroit Pistons

Last season, the Pistons more than tripled their win total from two years ago — do they have another leap in them?

Like Indiana heading into last season, Detroit is the team projected by most to finish somewhere between fifth and seventh, but with real potential on the roster to surprise (especially in a down East this season). They showed last season in the playoffs that they are real — they fell to the Knicks in the first round but played respectably in that series.

Cade Cunningham should put together another All-NBA level season — 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, 6.1 rebounds a game — but the talent around him needs to step up. Jaden Ivey was having a breakout year, averaging 17.6 points a game, until a broken fibula on Jan. 1 ended his season after 30 games. Jalen Duren averaged 11.8 points and 10 rebounds a game last season and needs to take a step forward on both ends of the court.

The biggest challenge will be replacing Malik Beasley. That falls to former Michigan teammates Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson, both of whom signed this summer and will be asked to step into a larger role.

This roster is proven to be good. Is it good enough as is? If the front office makes a bold move during the season — speculation about a Lauri Markkanen trade is out there — it could vault this team into the upper echelon of the East.

Detroit is a longer shot than Orlando or Atlanta to make a deep playoff run, but count them out at your own risk.

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Al Horford reveals why Warriors were only NBA team he would leave Celtics for

Al Horford reveals why Warriors were only NBA team he would leave Celtics for originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO – Headlines the past few years in Boston belonged to Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. On the court and behind the scenes, Al Horford became a Bean Town legend in his own ways as an integral piece of a historic franchise that won an NBA championship with him two seasons ago and competed for a title in each of the seven years he spent with them.

Horford and his wife, Amelia, needed a number of walks together over the offseason to contemplate their future. They had dug roots into Boston, becoming a major part of the community outside of establishing a basketball legacy. 

Horford was born in the Dominican Republic. He went to high school in Michigan and played collegiately for the University of Florida before being in Atlanta the first nine years of his NBA career. There had been stops in Philadelphia and Oklahoma City, but Boston looked like his final destination. 

Instead, the Warriors signed the five-time NBA All-Star center on Wednesday after months of a handshake deal that was waiting to become official. 

“It was very difficult,” Horford said Wednesday at his Chase Center introductory press conference. “Boston became a second home for me. Just being that community and a part of that city was something very special for me and my family, so it wasn’t an easy decision for me.” 

There were rumors and speculation that the only obstacle getting in the way of Horford becoming a Warrior was the 39-year-old contemplating retirement. Horford immediately squelched any of those thoughts, saying he never entertained that idea. 

But there only was one team that Horford ever considered leaving the Celtics for: The Warriors. 

“It’s a great opportunity to compete and win at a high level,” Horford said. “When I think about the Warriors I think about Steph [Curry] and Draymond [Green] and Steve Kerr. Seeing Jimmy Butler here, what he did in that second half of the season last year after the trade and how they were playing. 

“For me, if there was one place I was going to leave, it was for this.” 

Over the course of Horford’s 18-year NBA career, almost all of his time has been in the Eastern Conference. The only experience he waded into the waters of the West were the 28 games he played for the Thunder in the 2020-21 season. Horford admitted he didn’t have prior relationships with players on the Warriors, including Curry and Green. 

His battles against the Heat when Butler was starring in Miami have been well documented. Horford also has been a problem for the Warriors in the handful of games he has gone against them. 

Horford averaged 12.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game against the Warriors in the 2022 NBA Finals, shooting 60.5 percent from the field (26 of 43) and 62.5 percent on 3-pointers (15 of 24). He also has averaged 14.9 points and 9.4 rebounds per game in 25 regular-season games against the Warriors for his career, both being career highs for him against one team. 

The veteran big man continues to be a versatile defender at the final stages of his career, as well as a near-perfect fit in Steve Kerr’s offense stretching the floor and distributing the ball out of the block. 

“It’s huge to have a space-5,” Kerr said of Horford’s addition. “But it’s not just any space-5 – it’s Al Horford. He rebounds, defends, he’s smart, good passer. Just watching him today, you can see the fit.

“He can play with Draymond and space the floor as a 5. You can play him with Trayce [Jackson-Davis]. Trayce can be the dive man. You can play two bigs with him. He can also play the 5 himself. We can have a 5-out lineup. Al’s versatility, and just the fact that he fits in any lineup, just makes him hugely invaluable.” 

He’s also now the oldest Warriors player that also features a 37-year-old Curry, 36-year-old Butler and 35-year-old Green. No team in NBA history has ever used four players 35 and up in their opening night starting lineup. Horford understands the doubters based on the Warriors’ historic ages, and he still has the utmost confidence this was the right team to help him compete for another ring. 

“It’s fair,” Horford admitted. “It is true, but we have a very solid team. It’s not only the four of us. We have a lot of depth in this group, and a lot of the young guys I feel are going to play a big role in it. For us, it’s staying the course. Obviously health plays a big part in it. The focus is on the season and getting better. 

“I’m excited. I know those guys take care of themselves. They’re going to do everything they need to be on the floor, and we have a lot of experience.”

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Latest on Mets coaching staff: NY reportedly plans to hire Tim Leiper as new third base coach

Here is the latest on the Mets' coaching staff, which is being reshaped under manager Carlos Mendoza...

Nov. 6, 7:05 p.m.

The Mets have reportedly found their man to be the organization's new third base coach.

The New York Post's Joel Sherman reports that the Mets plan to hire Tim Leiper. Leiper had been the San Diego Padres' third base and infield coach under Mike Schildt for the past two seasons. Schildt stepped away from the managerial job in San Diego after the 2025 season, putting the jobs of the rest of the Padres coaching staff in jeopardy.

He has close to 30 years of experience as a coach and manager in the minors and in international baseball. He was also the Blue Jays' first base coach for five seasons (2014-18).

Leiper is set to replace Mike Sarbaugh.

SNY's Andy Martino reported last weekend that the Mets were close to hiring a third base coach.

Nov. 1, 7:20 p.m.

SNY's Andy Martino reports that the Mets are close to signing a new third base coach. The Mets parted ways with Mike Sarbaugh after the 2025 season.

Nov. 1, 4:15 p.m.

A source tells SNY's Andy Martino that Justin Willard is a name that is up for the Mets' vacant pitching coach position.

The Athletic's Will Sammon was first to report Willard as a candidate and that he is seen as the front-runner for the job.

Willard is currently serving as the Red Sox director of pitching. He joined the organization in November 2023, where he worked closely with current pitching coach Andrew Bailey on boosting pitching results using video breakdowns and data. 

If Willard were to get the job, he would replace Jeremy Hefner, who was with the Mets for six seasons before the organization moved on from him after the 2025 season.

Oct. 22, 4:32 p.m.

With Kai Correa in place as the bench coach and Jeff Albert tabbed to lead the major league hitting program, the Mets continue to search for additional hitting coaches to hire under Albert. 

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Mets have interviewed former Houston Astros hitting coach Troy Snitker.

The son of former Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker, the 36-year-old had been a hitting coach in the Houston organization since the 2019 season, though he was let go following the 2025 regular season.

A source tells Sherman that Snitker is "near the top" of the Mets' list for a role under Albert.

Oct. 3, 11:46 a.m.

Bench coach John Gibbons told the team he is leaving, reports SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino, who notes that Gibbons is not retiring.

Per Martino, Gibbons likes Mendoza and told the team he thinks it's time "for some new blood" at bench coach. 

Additionally, the Mets are not bringing back third base and infield coach Mike Sarbaugh, per Martino. 

Sarbaugh, 58, had been with the team for the last two seasons.

Martino notes that Sarbaugh was instrumental when it came to helping Brett Baty improve at third base. 

Oct. 1, 12:41 p.m.

Mets catching instructor Glenn Sherlock is retiring, reports SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino.

Martino notes that it's the first of a few changes coming to the coaching staff.

Sherlock, 65, had been part of New York's coaching staff since 2022.

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Canadiens' Suzuki Makes New Best Players List

Nick Suzuki (© Bob Frid-Imagn Images)

Montreal Canadiens star Nick Suzuki had a fantastic year for the Original Six club in 2024-25. In 82 games during the campaign, the 2017 first-round pick scored 30 goals and set new career highs with 59 assists, 89 points, and a plus-19 rating. With numbers like these, he was certainly a big reason why the Canadiens snapped their playoff drought. 

Now, Suzuki has been rewarded for his strong 2024-25 campaign, as he has made Sportsnet's top 50 players list for the 2025-26 season. 

Suzuki secured the No. 29 spot on Sportsnet's list. With this, he was ranked ahead of other notable NHL stars like Brandon Hagel (Tampa Bay Lightning), Andrei Vasilevskiy (Lightning), Sebastian Aho (Carolina Hurricanes), and Josh Morrisey (Winnipeg Jets).

Given the year Suzuki just had, it is entirely understandable that he has been ranked among the NHL's best players by Sportsnet. He only seems to be getting better with each season that passes by, and it will be fascinating to see what kind of year he has in 2025-26 from here. 

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Grimes accepts Sixers' qualifying offer, ending his restricted free agency

Grimes accepts Sixers' qualifying offer, ending his restricted free agency  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

On the final day he could accept it, Quentin Grimes decided to sign the Sixers’ qualifying offer and end his restricted free agency.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Wednesday afternoon that Grimes will return to the team for one season at the $8.7 million qualifying offer salary and with an inherent no-trade clause. The Sixers announced that they re-signed Grimes hours later.

Discussions between Grimes’ camp and the Sixers continued through training camp, but the two sides couldn’t find common ground on either a one-year “balloon” deal or a longer-term contract.

The Sixers’ qualifying offer would have expired Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET. Grimes will become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

After acquiring the 25-year-old guard at last season’s trade deadline, Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey was open about his plan to re-sign Grimes.

“We’re excited to bring him back,” Morey said at media day last week. “Quentin’s a big part of what we’re trying to do now and into the future, if we can get things resolved.”

With the Sixers dismally shorthanded and on their way to a 24-58 record, Grimes thrived in a high-usage, do-it-all role during the second half of the 2024-25 season. When he joined the Sixers, Grimes believed he could do much more than a 3-and-D job. 

“I feel like this whole year in Dallas, I showed I’m capable of playing on the ball, off the ball, making a lot of plays with my teammates out,” he said on Feb. 7. “Luka (Doncic) out or Kyrie (Irving) out, I can step in and fill that role.

“I feel like I can do that here, just playing with the ball in my hands — making plays for Joel (Embiid) and (Paul George), getting guys involved, or getting myself involved off the dribble.” 

Over 28 games last year with the Sixers, Grimes averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. He shot 46.9 percent from the floor, 37.3 percent from three-point range and 75.2 percent at the foul line. Highlights included a 44-point performance in a win over the Warriors and a career-high 46-point night in the Sixers’ double-overtime loss to the Rockets. 

The Sixers will presumably hope Grimes is able to build chemistry this year with fellow guards Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain and VJ Edgecombe, although McCain is out after undergoing surgery to repair a UCL tear in his right thumb.

Grimes did not fly with the Sixers for their preseason trip to Abu Dhabi for games vs. the Knicks on Thursday and Saturday. The team’s regular-season opener is Oct. 22 against the Celtics.

Signing Grimes puts the Sixers at 14 players on standard contracts, which is one under the maximum. They’ve used their three two-way contract slots on Dominick Barlow, Jabari Walker and Hunter Sallis.

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Report: Grimes accepting Sixers' qualifying offer, ending his restricted free agency

Report: Grimes accepting Sixers' qualifying offer, ending his restricted free agency  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

On the final day he could accept it, Quentin Grimes has reportedly decided to sign the Sixers’ qualifying offer and end his restricted free agency.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Wednesday afternoon that Grimes will return to the team for one season at the $8.7 million qualifying offer salary and with an inherent no-trade clause. Discussions between Grimes’ camp and the Sixers continued through training camp, but the two sides couldn’t find common ground on either a one-year “balloon” deal or a longer-term contract.

The Sixers’ qualifying offer would have expired Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET. Grimes will become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

After acquiring the 25-year-old guard at last season’s trade deadline, Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey was open about his plan to re-sign Grimes.

“We’re excited to bring him back,” Morey said at media day last week. “Quentin’s a big part of what we’re trying to do now and into the future, if we can get things resolved.”

With the Sixers dismally shorthanded and on their way to a 24-58 record, Grimes thrived in a high-usage, do-it-all role during the second half of the 2024-25 season. When he joined the Sixers, Grimes believed he could do much more than a 3-and-D job. 

“I feel like this whole year in Dallas, I showed I’m capable of playing on the ball, off the ball, making a lot of plays with my teammates out,” he said on Feb. 7. “Luka (Doncic) out or Kyrie (Irving) out, I can step in and fill that role.

“I feel like I can do that here, just playing with the ball in my hands — making plays for Joel (Embiid) and (Paul George), getting guys involved, or getting myself involved off the dribble.” 

Over 28 games last year with the Sixers, Grimes averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. He shot 46.9 percent from the floor, 37.3 percent from three-point range and 75.2 percent at the foul line. Highlights included a 44-point performance in a win over the Warriors and a career-high 46-point night in the Sixers’ double-overtime loss to the Rockets. 

The Sixers will presumably hope Grimes is able to build chemistry this year with fellow guards Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain and VJ Edgecombe, although McCain is out after undergoing surgery to repair a UCL tear in his right thumb.

Grimes did not fly with the Sixers for their preseason trip to Abu Dhabi for games vs. the Knicks on Thursday and Saturday. The team’s regular-season opener is Oct. 22 against the Celtics.

Signing Grimes will put the Sixers at 14 players on standard contracts, which is one under the maximum. They’ve used their three two way-contract slots on Dominick Barlow, Jabari Walker and Hunter Sallis.

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Report: Grimes accepting Sixers' qualifying offer, ending his restricted free agency

Report: Grimes accepting Sixers' qualifying offer, ending his restricted free agency  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

On the final day he could accept it, Quentin Grimes has reportedly decided to sign the Sixers’ qualifying offer and end his restricted free agency.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Wednesday afternoon that Grimes will return to the team for one season at the $8.7 million qualifying offer salary and with an inherent no-trade clause. Discussions between Grimes’ camp and the Sixers continued through training camp, but the two sides couldn’t find common ground on either a one-year “balloon” deal or a longer-term contract.

The Sixers’ qualifying offer would have expired Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET.

After acquiring the 25-year-old guard at last season’s trade deadline, Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey was open about his plan to re-sign Grimes.

“We’re excited to bring him back,” Morey said at media day last week. “Quentin’s a big part of what we’re trying to do now and into the future, if we can get things resolved.”

With the Sixers dismally shorthanded and on their way to a 24-58 record, Grimes thrived in a high-usage, do-it-all role. When he joined the Sixers, Grimes believed he could do much more than a 3-and-D job. 

“I feel like this whole year in Dallas, I showed I’m capable of playing on the ball, off the ball, making a lot of plays with my teammates out,” he said on Feb. 7. “Luka (Doncic) out or Kyrie (Irving) out, I can step in and fill that role.

“I feel like I can do that here, just playing with the ball in my hands — making plays for Joel (Embiid) and (Paul George), getting guys involved, or getting myself involved off the dribble.” 

Over 28 games last year with the Sixers, Grimes averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists. He shot 46.9 percent from the floor, 37.3 percent from three-point range and 75.2 percent at the foul line. Highlights included a 44-point performance in a win over the Warriors and a career-high 46-point night in the Sixers’ double-overtime loss to the Rockets. 

The Sixers will hope Grimes is able to build chemistry this year with fellow guards Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain and VJ Edgecombe, although McCain is out after undergoing surgery to repair a UCL tear in his right thumb.

Grimes did not fly with the Sixers for their preseason trip to Abu Dhabi for games vs. the Knicks on Thursday and Saturday. The team’s regular-season opener is Oct. 22 against the Celtics.

This story will be updated.

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Colton Dach's Goal May Have Secured His Roster Spot Out Of Camp

One of the bright spots in the Chicago Blackhawks’ exhibition loss to the Detroit Red Wings was the play of forward Colton Dach. He scored a goal and continued to bring a physical presence to the team, something he’s been doing all preseason. 

Dach scored a goal by driving hard to the net and depositing it. The Blackhawks don’t have many power forwards who can come up with this kind of tally, so they are likely to keep a player who has that in his arsenal. 

There is nothing pretty about the way Dach plays, which makes him perfect for the overall makeup of the lineup. At this point, it is fair to assume that he is going to make the team because he keeps impacting games in different ways.  

“The last two games, I thought I did pretty good showcasing my physical side," Dach said after the loss. "I wanted to come over here tonight and showcase some other aspects of my game.”

Dach set out to be a difference maker in other ways beyond his physicality, and he did. Not only did he score the nice goal, but he also generated a handful of chances for himself and his teammates. A lot of these chances came late when the Blackhawks were trying to get back in it, which shows his ability to stay engaged until the very end. 

Currently, it appears safe to say that Dach is likely to make the team. There are a handful of forwards fighting for the final few spots, but few have made the impact during games that Dach has, including some of the veteran roster locks. With that in mind, he knows he must keep working and proving himself to make sure he's with the NHL team on opening night. 

"I think every day it's the same, just come in, work hard, try and make it - try and prove to them that I belong."

Dach, despite knowing his current status in the organization, has confidence in himself. He credits being around everyone more over the last year as a reason that he feels good. Whether it was in the NHL or AHL, he developed well during 2024-25, which has set him up for success this year. 

"I think playing last year, kind of getting familiar with the guys, getting to know the staff, the trainers, everything. You just feel more comfortable in the locker room."

Coming out of major junior hockey and turning pro is difficult for a lot of young players who have NHL potential.

Dach was no different, but there were things that he did to improve his game and his mentality, which allowed him to get to this point. He talked about working on his consistency over the last two years, which is something that needs to exist if you are going to live in the NHL. 

"I think the consistency factor," Dach said postgame when asked about what he's worked on to reach this level. "I think that was my biggest thing going into the AHL two years ago, and then last year, the same thing, just trying to play consistent, trying to show them that I can be an NHLer every day."

Dach is going to be relied on to play a certain role for the Chicago Blackhawks in 2025-26. A lot is made about the skilled guys at the top of the lineup, like Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, and Teuvo Teravainen. There isn't much "nasty" or "mean" in any of their games, though.

Tyler Bertuzzi can bring some of that, but Dach's future with the team has a lot more runway. Dach can be a successful player of this type for the Blackhawks over the course of many years.

If he keeps working on his offensive productivity, his physical game, and being a leader in the locker room, he will hold tremendous value for a long time.

When the lineup card comes out next week, expect Dach to be on it with the intentions of being an impact player. 

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

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LeBron James out to start camp with glute issue, Lakers plan longer ramp up for 40-year-old star

Nobody has been here before. No player before LeBron James has entered season 23 of an NBA career — Vince Carter played 22, which had been the record — let alone playing at such a high level. Understandably, the Lakers are going to take it slow.

LeBron sat out the Lakers' first day of training camp practice due to what coach J.J. Redick called a "nerve irritation in the glute." The plan, he said, was to bring LeBron on a little more slowly, with the target being for him to be full go on the court against the Warriors on opening night (when the NBA returns to NBC — plus streaming on Peacock). Here's Redick's quote, via Dan Woike at The Athletic.

"I think it's probably a little big longer of a ramp up leading into opening night for him," Redick said. "Just obviously in Year 23, it's uncharted territory here. So, I felt, and in talking with performance and in talking with (James' trainer) Mike (Mancias) and LeBron, like probably did too much last year in camp, which was great for me as a first-year head coach to get buy-in from him. But it'll be a slower process with him leading into the first game. He's obviously got 22 years so far of wear and tear on the body and he's dealing with a little bit of nerve irritation in the glute.

"So, we're just playing the long game with LeBron."

The directive to be "overly cautious" with LeBron early on camp from LeBron's camp, reports Dave McMenamin of ESPN. They understand this is a long game.

Last season, LeBron averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists a night across 70 games. With Luka Doncic in the fold as the team's primary offensive creator, and Austin Reaves expected to take another step forward in a contract year, there should be less burden on LeBron on the offensive end. Which is why they can afford to take it slow with him, although Redick suggested that LeBron could play in one preseason game, depending on how he feels.

LeBron is in the final year of his contract with the Lakers and there are questions about his future — does he retire? Resign with the Lakers? Find another team? — but those answers should become clear over the marathon that is the NBA season.

While we're talking Lakers injuries, Marcus Smart (Achilles tendinopathy) and Gabe Vincent (knee management) were limited on the first day of camp.