ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 12: Trae Young #3 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket as Tristan da Silva #23 of the Orlando Magic defends in the first half at the Kia Center on March 12, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Wizards are 3-3 despite an inconsistent first six games. They’ve won two games against inferior opponents, lost two games against superior opponents and split two contests with the Charlotte Hornets.
The true Wizards will reveal themselves over the next eight games in which they play seven 2026 playoff teams — the lone non-playoff opponent a talented Indiana Pacers squad. That stretch begins tonight in Orlando against a tough but depleted Magic group without Paolo Banchero or Jalen Suggs.
Orlando’s weak spot is its interior defense, which ranks 18th in opponent paint points per game. The Wizards rank fifth in paint points per game (52.3), so look for Brian Keefe to feed Anthony Davis in the post and get AJ Dybantsa going downhill.
Washington’s Achilles heel has been its rebounding, which ranks 28th in the NBA. Monday presents a get-right game against a Magic squad that ranks 26th in rebounding.
Injury Report
WAS: Alex Sarr (knee soreness), Justin Champagnie (foot surgery), Anthony Gill (back spasms), Tristan Vukcevic (hip impingement), Jamir Watkins (ACL tear) are OUT.
ORL: Paolo Banchero (ankle), Jalen Suggs (knee), Anthony Black (ankle), Jonathan Isaac (knee), Izaiyah Nelson (ankle), Noah Penda (hamstring) are OUT.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 17: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns looks to pass around Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half of an NBA play-in tournament game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 17, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Golden State Warriors will look to extend their winning streak to five games when they host the Phoenix Suns on Monday night. The game will be played at 7:00 PM PT in San Francisco and can be watched on NBC Sports Bay Area.
Golden State opened this set of back-to-back games with an impressive 124-112 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night. Despite playing without veteran stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, who were both held out for rest, the Warriors secured their fourth consecutive win behind a big performance from rookie Yaxel Lendeborg.
After failing to reach double figures in scoring for the first time in his young NBA career against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night, Lendeborg bounced back in spectacular fashion. The rookie led all scorers with a career-high 37 points on an efficient 13-of-19 shooting from the field, including 6-of-11 from beyond the arc. His performance marked the most points scored by a Warriors rookie since Curry dropped 42 against the Portland Trail Blazers in 2010.
YAXEL LENDEBORG SCORES THE MOST POINTS BY A WARRIORS ROOKIE IN A SINGLE GAME SINCE STEPH IN 2010!
For years, Golden State’s offensive success has largely depended on Curry’s brilliance, with the Warriors often needing an unexpected scoring outburst from someone else to help carry the load. However, Lendeborg’s emergence as a legitimate offensive threat has given the team another reliable scoring option, easing the burden on Curry and creating a more balanced attack.
One of the biggest beneficiaries has been Brandin Podziemski, who has settled into a complementary role rather than being relied upon as one of the team’s primary scoring options. The fourth-year guard has thrived in that role, playing with greater decisiveness while averaging 16.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. His ability to contribute in multiple areas has become increasingly valuable as Golden State’s new offense continues to take shape.
With Lendeborg providing another dimension to the offense and Podziemski finding his rhythm, the Warriors are beginning to show they have the supporting cast needed to compete at a high level. They’ll look to keep that momentum going Monday night against a Phoenix team that beat them just over a week ago behind a 43-point performance from Devin Booker. This time, however, Golden State will look to turn the tables with Curry and Green back in the starting lineup.
Enjoy the game Dub Nation. GO WARRIORS!!!
Projected Starters
Warriors: Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Yaxel Lendeborg, Draymond Green, Charles Bassey
Fanatics and the NHL unveiled their Hometown Remix jerseys on Monday, Nov. 2, and the New York Islanders' snarling fisherman logo has risen from the depths.
That's not a good thing.
That logo, which was first used in 1995, was derided as the "Gorton's fisherman"and lasted only two seasons. It was cut pretty early during a fan-designed contest for a third jersey in 2027-28, with a lighthouse the winning bid.
But now the fisherman jersey will be worn for select home games this season. At least, the Buffalo Sabres didn't bring back the Buffaslug jersey, opting for the snorting buffalo head, instead.
The Hometown Remix does mix things up. The currently orange Anaheim Ducks will be green. The Chicago Blackhawks also switched to green, from red. The black-and-gold Pittsburgh Penguins shift to their early colors with a mix of dark blue and light blue. The Los Angeles Kings revert to purple.
The Washigton Capitals' sharp-looking Capitol dome logo is back, and the Detroit Red Wings add Hockeytown above their winged wheel.
Some teams go a different route. The Tampa Bay Lighting feature a skull, the Carolina Hurricanes display mascot Stormy, the Columbus Blue Jackets have the scary loud cannon that causes visitors to jump, the Utah Mammoth have a U and a tusk and the Seattle Kraken use an anchor, ironically in a season when the team doesn't seem weighed down.
SAN ANTONIO, TX - OCTOBER 31: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 31, 2026 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. 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 (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The road to MVP has started well for Victor Wembanyama, as he has been named Western Conference Player of the Week, which ended on November 1, the league announced.
After not having the best two games to start the season, The Alien upped his game to elite levels to lead the Spurs to four straight wins, including three in the week pertaining to the award. Wembanyama averaged 36 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, two steals, and 4.3 blocks during the stretch, dominating on both ends. He was great against Sacramento and Utah and dropped a season-high for him 43 points against the Timberwolves.
Wembanyama, who had received Western Conference Player of the Week honors three times in the past, seems to be rounding into form while still having room for improvement, which is a scary proposition for the rest of the league. The 12-point game against the Thunder on opening night feels like it was from a different reality, as not only the superstar center but also the Spurs have been playing a lot better recently and are climbing the standings in the West.
Jayson Tatum got the honor in the Eastern Conference after leading his Celtics to four straight wins as well.
The Spurs will kick off Week 3 by hosting the reeling Jazz on Monday, November 2.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 26: Randy Arozarena #56 of the Seattle Mariners scores a run against Tyler Heineman #31 of the Los Angeles Angels during the fifth inning at T-Mobile Park on September 26, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Today was the deadline for teams to extend a Qualifying Offer (QO) to players set to become a free agent ahead of free agency opening and as expected, the Mariners have extended a QO to Randy Arozarena.
The QO is a one-year deal that allows teams to bid for a year of a player’s services should they not sign a longer-term deal, but the real benefit of it for teams is it entitles them to a draft pick if and when the player signs somewhere else. Only players who haven’t received a QO before are eligible, and players have to have been with the offering teams for a full season – so players who got traded midseason aren’t eligible. The draft pick position varies based on a team’s financials (revenue-sharing, luxury tax, etc.) and how much the player signs for, but is either after Competitive Balance Round A or B, or after the fourth round for luxury tax payors. The team that signs the free agent forfeits a draft pick, the position of which is again based on a team’s financials.
This year the QO was $23.5M, which is based off the mean salary of the 125 highest-paid players in MLB. Eight players received the QO today: Arozarena, postseason hero Jake Bauers (Brewers), David Bednar (Yankees), Ryan Jeffers (Twins), Brandon Lowe (Pirates), Adrián Morejón (Padres), Trevor Rogers (Orioles) and Seiya Suzuki (Cubs). It’s rare for a player to accept the QO, although the upcoming uncertainty with the looming lockout might impact players’ decision-making. This is a small group of QOs, relative to other years; 13 players received a QO last year.
That uncertainty likely won’t affect Arozarena, who should have plenty of suitors for the 31-year-old’s services after coming off a career-best season. Arozarena brought a power-speed combo this year, thumping 26 homers and stealing as many bases, but he also cut his strikeouts to a career-low (while still walking an above-average amount) with a balanced offensive approach that saw him use the whole field. Arozarena talked several times this year about adjusting his approach to focus more on hitting the ball all over and less on trying to pull everything for a home run; the result was his best offensive season in a full season as a pro. Arozarena also benefits from being arguably the best bat on the market in a class that’s heavier on pitching.
This is the first year the Mariners have extended a QO to a player in over a decade; the last time was Hisashi Iwakuma in 2015, when the QO was valued at $15.8M. Iwakuma initially rejected the QO and was reportedly going to sign with the Dodgers, but the deal fell through and Iwakuma returned to the Mariners on a one-year deal with two option years. If/when Arozarena signs elsewhere, that will be the first time the Mariners receive draft pick compensation for losing a free agent. The Mariners do not pay the luxury tax and are a revenue-sharing recipient, so the pick would be either in Competitive Balance Round A (after the first round) or B (after the second round).
Players have until 1 PM PT on November 17 to accept or decline the QO, during which time they’re free to negotiate with other teams to get a sense of their market value.
The Dodgers are adding former Padres chief operating officer Caroline Perry to their leadership team, the organization announced Monday afternoon.
Effective Nov. 30, Perry will serve as executive vice president and COO, filling a position vacated by retiring longtime Dodgers executive Bob Wolfe, who is transitioning to an advisory role.
In addition, the Dodgers announced they promoted Royce Cohen to executive vice president and chief business officer, after he most recently served as senior vice president of business strategy. Cohen has worked for the Dodgers since 2014 and was a key figure in the formation of the Professional Women’s Hockey League, another one of Dodgers owner Mark Walter’s sports business endeavors.
“Caroline comes to the Dodgers with an exceptional record of service in baseball, and Royce has repeatedly proven his ability to be a step ahead in the sports business world,” Dodgers president and Chief Executive Stan Kasten said in a statement. “They both offer a level of knowledge and expertise that is truly enviable.”
Perry spent 16 seasons with the Padres, working her way up from associate general counsel. She became the highest-ranking female employee in Padres history when she was promoted to COO in 2023. She is also one of just three female COOs in Major League Baseball.
“It is a tremendous honor to join the Dodgers,” Perry said in a statement. “On the field, they have set an unparalleled standard of excellence in baseball under the current leadership. Off the field, their historic legacy, passionate fan base and service to the community speak for themselves. While I am incredibly grateful for my time with the Padres and for the colleagues who made those years so meaningful, I am excited to take my place with the Dodgers and to contribute to their continued success.”
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 30: Head coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers motions to his team against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on October 30, 2026 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Although not always the case, most good NBA teams offer indications of their quality quite early in the season. Through seven games, the Los Angeles Lakers have done precisely that (partly thanks to a friendly schedule). They’re fourth in the West at 5-2 with the league’s third-ranked offense, 18th-ranked defense and seventh-best net rating (plus-7.5), per Cleaning the Glass.
Despite a team’s general quality typically revealing — or, sometimes, merely previewing — itself early into the year, the specifics require much more time crystallize. Rotations and schematics change. Players progress or regress. Injuries and trades crop up. Other teams adapt. For any team with lofty end-of-season aspirations, building toward those goals is a long-term process, including the 2026-27 Lakers.
“We want to become a great team. You don’t become a great team in six games. We want to become a great team after 82 games and have a chance to go compete for a championship in April and May and June. It’s a process to get there,” Redick told reporters following Friday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors. “We are going to be patient. There’s also, along with patience, doing what you’re supposed to do. I think as we play more games together, we do more walkthroughs together, we do more film together, we do more practice together, that will all get better.”
After overhauling much of the rotation in free agency, led by three new starters, the Lakers will take some time before reaching their final form. Redick understands that and has repeatedly harped on this group’s need for a lengthy runway to gel.
Fortunately, the schedule remains fairly light over the next few weeks — a road game against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday should test them, however — even if it includes plenty of postseason hopefuls. A month-long stretch from late November to late December featuring matchups with the San Antonio Spurs, Indiana Pacers Philadelphia 76ers, Houston Rockets (twice), Denver Nuggets (twice) and Minnesota Timberwolves (twice) should give Los Angeles some important insights about its state at that time.
That’s still many weeks away, though, so the Lakers will hope all the games, walkthroughs, film sessions and practices they share together before then accelerates their path toward becoming the great team they’re aiming to be.
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Pitching coach Ethan Katz #21 of the Chicago White Sox calls the bullpen during the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 17, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Colorado Rockies announced on Monday afternoon that they have hired Ethan Katz as their new pitching coach for the 2027 Major League Baseball season.
The Colorado Rockies announced today that they have hired Ethan Katz as the club’s Major League pitching coach. pic.twitter.com/otVNBLTFsr
Katz, 43, was originally selected by the Rockies organization in the 26th round of the 2005 draft. A right-handed pitcher, he spent four seasons in the Rockies’ farm system from 2005 through 2008. During that time he posted a 2.79 combined ERA over 102 appearances—mostly out of the bullpen—and 177.1 innings.
He also played independent baseball in 2009.
His coaching career began at Harvard-Westlake High School in California, a school with prestigious baseball history. Katz was the pitching coach from 2009 to 2013 and coached multiple future MLB players, including pitchers Max Fried, Lucas Giolito, and Jack Flaherty.
Katz made the jump to coaching professional baseball starting in 2013, where he coached in the minor league system for the Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners. He also served as the assistant minor league pitching coach for the San Francisco Giants in 2019.
The Giants promoted Katz to serve as their assistant pitching coach for the COVID-19 shortened 2020 season. That year the Giants held a team ERA of 4.64 with 488 strikeouts, 210 walks, and had opposing hitters slash .241/.322/.410 against them.
Katz was then hired by the Chicago White Sox as their MLB pitching coach starting in 2021. He served in that role through the 2025 season until being fired after three consecutive 100-loss seasons—including the year the White Sox set the modern era record for most losses in a single season in 2024.
In Katz’s first season with the White Sox, their pitching staff was one of the best units in baseball with a team ERA of 3.73—fifth best in the league. Their rotation was anchored by multiple American League Cy Young Award candidates including Carlos Rodón, Lance Lynn, Dylan Cease, and Lucas Giolito. Meanwhile, their bullpen featured the likes of Garrett Crochet, Laim Hendriks, and Michael Kopech.
Unfortunately, the White Sox saw diminishing returns over the next few seasons. Their 3.92 ERA in 2022 placed them in the middle of the pack, and in 2023 and 2024 their team ERA ballooned to 4.87 and 4.67 respectively. They rebounded somewhat in 2025 with a 4.26 ERA, but manager Will Venable and the White Sox front office decided to go in a different direction with their rebuilding club.
Katz was hired by the Houston Astros to serve as their assistant pitching coach in 2026. The Astros had a difficult season, winning their division without a winning record and getting eliminated quickly in the post-season. The pitching staff held a team ERA of 4.45, a far cry from the staff that had been a top ten unit in baseball over the last few seasons.
Katz will take over as the Rockies’ big league pitching coach under pitching director Matt Daniels following the firing of Alon Leichman earlier this off-season. Leichman was ousted after one season where the Rockies pitching staff held a league-worst 5.99 ERA.
Of the hire, Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer said via text message, “We are very excited to add Ethan to our staff. We love the experience he brings in this role as well as his track record of getting pitchers better on a consistent basis. He is a tireless worker, and players rave about him across the league. Can’t wait to start working with him!”
This story has been updated to include a comment from Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer.
Just in case anyone there was any doubt that this year’s free-agent class may be the weakest in at least a decade, Major League Baseball teams made qualifying offers to just eight players by the Monday, Nov. 2 deadline – the second-fewest in a full-season since the system was implemented in 2012.
Here are the players offered a $23.15 million qualifying offer by the deadline, including their salaries last season:
Seattle Mariners outfielder Randy Arozarena; One-year, $15.65 million salary in 2026.
Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki: Final year of 5-year, $85 million contract.
Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers: One-year, $6.7 million salary in 2026.
New York Yankees closer David Bednar: One-year. $9 million salary in 2026.
Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe: Final year of 6-year, $24 million contract.
Baltimore Orioles starter: Trevor Rogers: One-year, $6.2 million salary in 2026.
San Diego Padres left-handed reliever Adrian Morejon: One-year, $3.9 million contract in 2026
Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Jake Bauers: One-year, $2.7 million contract in 2026
While a record four players accepted the qualifying offer a year ago – Shota Imanaga, Trent Grisham Gleyber Torres and Brandon Woodruff – which tied the player to the team for one year, it’s quite possible no accepts the offer this year, which has occurred four times previously. Just 18 of 157 players have accepted a qualifying offer since this system was implemented.
Free-agent starter Tarik Skubal was the biggest star not eligible for a qualifying offer by the Los Angeles Dodgers since he was acquired at the trade deadline from the Detroit Tigers. He is also expected to be the only player who’ll earn more than $200 million in free agency. Skubal is expected to command the most money given to a free-agent pitcher, exceeding Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s 12-year, $325 million deal.
Skubal headlines a group of premier free agents who were not eligible to receive a qualifying offer since they were either traded during the season or received a qualifying offer in the past. That list includes All-Stars Clay Holmes, Freddy Peralta, Luis Arraez, Michael King, Nick Martinez, Robbie Ray, Kevin Gausman Raisel Iglesias, Casey Mize.
The most intriguing qualifying offer decisions may be with Bauers and Morejon. Bauers, who hit 26 homers for the World Series champion Brewers, is coming off a one-year, $2.7 million contract; the qualifying offer will pay him twice as much as he’s earned in his entire career. Morejon is the game’s top setup man, who surely will want to be paid as a closer, but if he accepts the qualifying offer, he’ll be the highest-paid reliever in baseball for the 2027 season, eclipsing Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz’s $23 million salary.
Players must make a decision by Nov. 17 whether they plan to accept or reject qualifying offers.
Stromgren has been off to a strong start in the AHL, recording three goals and eight assists for 11 points through 11 games. His point total currently ranks tied for fourth in the league.
Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
The 23-year-old forward appeared in three NHL games last season during his first career recall. He knows the opportunity is limited and will be looking to make the most of his chance.
“Three games is not a lot, just take the most out of it, but I think just ‘play it simple’ is going to be the game plan tonight,” he said of his previous NHL experience last season.
"You got to be able to adapt to play up here."
William Stromgren sounds off on getting into the lineup for tonight's clash against the Sharks. pic.twitter.com/x0kM799Qdv
HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 04: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets battles with Hugo González #28 of the Boston Celtics for the ball in the first half at Toyota Center on February 04, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Boston Celtics (5-1) at Houston Rockets (6-1) Monday, November 2, 2026 8:30 PM ET Regular Season Game #7, Road Game #3 TV: NBCSB, Space City Home Network, NBA-LP Radio: 98.5 Sports Hub, 790 AM, Sirius XM Toyota Center
The Celtics look for their 6th straight win as they travel to Houston to take on the Rockets. This is the second of back to back games for the Celtics and the first back to back set on the road. The Celtics are 1-0 so far in the second of back to back games. This is the first of 2 games between these two teams this season. They will play again on January 11 in Boston.
The Celtics were 1-1 last year against the Rockets, with each team winning on the road. The Celtics are 99-58 ovrerall all time against the Rockets. They are 43-34 when playing at Houston. This will be a tough game against a very good team. The Rockets have won 6 of their first 7 games, losing only at Dallas and beating Dallas, Atlanta and OKC at home and San Antonio, Atlanta and Milwaukee on the road.
The Rockets were a good team last season but have gotten better in the off season. Fred VanVleet has returned from a torn ACL that kept him out last season. They signed Marcus Smart, who will help to bolster their defense. They also signed Bogdan Bogdanovic, who will give them another 3 point shooter. They drafted Bruce Thornton with the 31st pick in the draft. They lost Dorian Finney-Smith and Josh Okogie.
After this game, the Celtics will return home to host Milwaukee before a road trip that will take them through Charlotte, Milwaukee, Philadelphia and Toronto. They play Dallas and Orlando at home before a West coast trip that takes them through Denver, Sacramento, Golden State, and Washington. They then play one game at home against Atlanta before playing at San Antonio and Dallas.
After this game the Rockets will host Minnesota before playing at Phoenix. Next they have a 3 game home stand against Denver, Golden State, and Utah. Then they go on the road for 4 games through Washington, Miami , Indiana, and Denver. Next, they host the LA Clippers, Phoenix, Philadelphia, the LA Lakers, and Toronto.
The Celtics started Derrick White, Jordan Walsh, Paul George, Jayson Tatum and Mitchell Robinson in the first 5 games. In their last game against the Magic, they started White, Gonzalez, George, Tatum and Queta. I’m guessing that Gonzalez once again starts and that Robinson will return to the starting lineup after a game off for rest. I’m guessing that Houston starts their regular lineup of Fred VanVleet, Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith, Jr, and Alperin Sengun.
For the Celtics, Devin Carter remains on the injury report due to illness. After missing the final 3 games of the preseason, Carter was diagnosed with mononucleosis and is without a timetable for a return. Mitchell Robinson missed Sunday’s game for rest and I expect him to return for this game. Joe may choose to sit out other players for rest in this game but at this time the injury report is not out. For Houston, Steven Adams is out with a calf injury. Reed Sheppard (back) and Clint Capela (ankle) are both questionable.
Probable Starting Matchups PG: Derrick White vs Fred VanVleet
Derrick White | NBAE via Getty ImagesFred VanVleet | Getty Images
SG: Hugo Gonzalez vs Amen Thompson
Hugo Gonzalez | NBAE via Getty ImagesAmen Thompson | Getty Images
SF: Sam Hauser vs Kevin Durant
Sam Hauser | NBAE via Getty ImagesKevin Durant | Getty Images
PF: Jayson Tatum vs Jabari Smith, Jr
Jayson Tatum | NBAE via Getty ImagesJabari Smith, Jr | Getty Images
Celtics Reserves Chris Cenac, Jr Mike Conley, Jr Luka Garza Hugo Gonzalez Ron Harper, Jr Payton Pritchard Neemias Queta Baylor Scheierman Two Way Players Devin Carter Dillon Mitchell Amari Williams Injuries/Out Devin Carter (illness) out Paul George (rest) out
Head Coach Joe Mazzulla Houston Rockets Reserves Bruce Thornton Jae’Sean Tate Tari Eason Isaiah Crawford Bogdan Bogdanovic Marcus Smart
Two-Way Players Julian Phillips Oscar Tshiebwe Quadir Copeland
Injuries/Out Steven Adams (calf) out Reed Sheppard (back) questionable Clint Capela (ankle) questionable
Head Coach Ime Udoka
Key Matchups Sam Hauser vs Kevin Durant Durant is averaging 22.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.7 blocks per game. He is shooting 51.1% from the field and 40.7% from beyond the arc. With Paul George out for rest, I’m guessing that Sam Hauser gets the start, but it could just as easily be Jordan Walsh for his defense on Durant. Whoever starts here, the Celtics need to Defend Durant very closely.
Mitchell Robinson vs Alperen Sengun Sengun is averaging 22.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 53.2% from the field and 54.5% on threes. He is dangerous to score from both inside and on the perimeter. The Celtics need to defend him well and box out on rebounds if they want to win this game. Honorable Mention Jayson Tatum vs Jabari Smith, Jr Smith has been playing very well. He is averaging 19 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1 steal per game. He is shooting 48.9% from the field and 44.7% from beyond the arc. He is a very good 3 point shooter and so the Celtics need to defend him well on the perimeter. Tatum needs to continue to play well for the Celtics to be at their best. 6th Man Matchup Payton Pritchard vs Marcus Smart Smart played for the Celtics for 9 seasons after being selected 6th in the 2014 draft. He won Defensive Player of the Year with the Celtics in 2022 and remains a very good defensive player. He is Houston’s 6th Man but starts when VanVleet sits out for rest. He is averaging 11.8 points, 3.0 rebounds,. 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 57.1% from the field and 47.4% from beyond the arc. Payton Pritchard is the Celtics 6th Man, winning the 2024-25 6th Man of the Year. He is averaging 16.6 points, 2.2 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 48.1% from the field and 43.3% from beyond the arc.
Keys to the Game Defense – Defense is always a key to winning. Players struggle on offense in some games, but they can always play defense. The Rockets have an offensive rating of 121.2 (1st). The Celtics have an offensive rating of 118.0 (5th). The Rockets are 9th with a defensive rating of 108.9 while the Celtics are 7th with a defensive rating of 108.1. The Celtics have to stick to their defensive identity in this one because the Rockets play tough defense and the Celtics can’t depend on a shoot out to win since the Rockets are a very good offensive team.
Rebound – In order to score, the Celtics need the ball and to get the ball, they will need to crash the boards as a team. The Celtics average 43.6 rebounds per game (19th) while the Rockets average 45.3 rebounds per game (11th). Much of rebounding is effort and when the Celtics put out extra effort on the boards, it usually carries over into the rest of their game. The Rockets average 16.0 second chance points per game. The Rockets are a very good rebounding team and so the Celtics must come into the game determined to put out extra effort and to hustle for every rebound to limit 2nd chance points for the Rockets.
Be Aggressive and Stay Focused – The Celtics have to be aggressive in taking the ball to the basket and not settling for 3 pointers on every possession, especially if the 3s aren’t falling. They also have to be aggressive in hustling for rebounds and for loose balls. And they have to be aggressive on defense. They have to play harder than the Rockets and play like the team that wants this game more. They also need to carry that aggressiveness through all 4 quarters with no let up. They also need to stay focused on taking good shots and making them. They have to keep their focus on playing team ball.
Depth – The Celtics need to lean on their depth for this game. It is the second of back to back games and so they will need the reserves to play well to take some of the pressure off of the starters. This will especially be true if Joe decides to sit any of the vets for rest. Even if everyone plays, fatigue could be a problem down the stretch if the reserves can’t give them good minutes and keep the Celtics in the game while the starters rest.
X-Factors Back to Back Road Game – The Celtics are on the road where they are 1-1 so far, losing to Detroit on opening night and beating the Magic on Monday. The Celtics are playing on the second night of back to back games while the Rockets are at home and rested. The Celtics had to travel, stay in a hotel, play in front of a hostile crowd and on an unfamiliar court while the Rockets should get a boost from being on their home court. They need to shake off the distractions of playing on the road and stay focused on playing team ball.
Coaching – The Rockets are led by former Celtics coach Ime Udoka, who left Boston under less than desirable circumstances. He was suspended for violating team rules and assistant coach Joe Mazzulla was made interim coach. Eventually, Udoka was officially released and Mazzulla was made head coach. I am sure that Udoka would love nothing more than to once again beat the team that let him go after he led that team to the Finals. And, Joe just wants to win every single game no matter who the opposing coach is. Officiating – Officiating is always an x-factor in every game. Every crew officiates differently. Some call it tight, others let them play. The Celtics need to adjust to how the refs are calling the game and not allow bad calls or no calls to take away their focus from playing the game. The Celtics also have to be aware of the new points of emphasis for this season and try to avoid off‑arm push‑offs, reckless closeouts, delays before free throws illegal screens and especially flopping. Paul George was already fined for a flop in the first game and there have been several other flopping calls as well.
Explosive batter calls time having amassed 2,897 runs at 28.97
38-year-old will continue to play franchise cricket
Australian short-form cricket star Glenn Maxwell has retired from the international game. The 38-year-old had already retired from one-day international cricket in 2025 but has hung up his bat and gloves for Australia’s T20 team, as well as for his state.
“Post the last one-day game for Victoria, speaking to my teammates and letting them know that was going to be my last game for the state was probably harder than I thought it was going to be – got a little choked up,” Maxwell said on The Final Word podcast.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 31: Jose Butto #70 of the San Francisco Giants prepares to pitch during the ninth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on March 31, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Texas Rangers have claimed righthanded pitcher Jose Butto on waivers from the San Francisco Giants, the team announced today. In addition, the team announced that outfielder Michael Helman has cleared waivers and been outrighted.
Butto, 28, has spent most of his career in the New York Mets organization. He appeared in one game in 2022 for the Mets, allowing seven runs in a four inning start, then appeared in nine games for them in 2023. After putting up a 2.55 ERA in 30 games in 2024, he was sent to the Giants as part of the package for Tyler Rogers at the 2025 trade deadline. Butto appeared in just three games at the beginning of 2026 before undergoing surgery to remove a blood clot from his right arm, which ended his season.
Butto is arbitration-eligible, though he is projected to make little over the league minimum. He is also out of options. He doesn’t throw that hard, doesn’t strike out a ton of batters and walks way too many guys, but he does get groundballs, so he has that going for him. He’s a cheap bullpen arm they can take to camp and see what happens.
As for Helman, I’m reasonably certain he now becomes a free agent, due to how much professional service time he has.
May 5, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher David Bednar (53) pitches against the Texas Rangers during the eighth inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The deadline for teams to tender qualifying offers to their pending free agents came and passed today at 5 p.m. EST. The Yankees reportedly tendered an offer to only one player, reliever David Bednar.
This was the expected outcome for the Bombers, but it’s still notable that Bednar was the only one they saw fit for a QO. It seemed very plausible ahead of the 2026 season that Jazz Chisholm Jr. would receive an offer as he headed into free agency, but an inconsistent campaign for the infielder convinced the Yankees to let Chisholm become a free agent without any restraints.
Bednar now has about two weeks (until November 17th) to decide whether to accept the $23.15 million QO, or to reject it and test the waters. The general expectation seems to be that Bednar will not accept the offer, though stranger things have happened, and it’s not unheard of for non-elite free agents who to flounder on the market after receiving and rejecting a qualifying offer. Accepting the offer would make Bednar the highest paid reliever in MLB on a per-year basis.
Though the Yankees got burned the last time a player accepted a QO (see: Grisham, Trent), they obviously wouldn’t be upset to see Bednar return on a one-year pact. Top-end relievers typically earn in the $20+ million range in free agency these days, and Bednar was a stabilizing force at the back of the Yankee bullpen for the last season and a half even as he progresses through his early-30’s.
If Bednar rejects the offer and signs elsewhere, the Yankees will be in line for draft-pick compensation. Bednar is one of eight players to receive the offer this year: Randy Arozarena, Jake Bauers, Seiya Suzuki, Trevor Rogers, Adrian Morejón, Ryan Jeffers, and Brandon Lowe all also received the QO.
The Mets made a number of roster moves this afternoon to officially kick off their offseason. Let’s talk about the additions first: The Mets signed infielder Christian Cairo to a one-year, split contract and also claimed right-handed pitchers Jack Anderson and Pierson Ohl off of waivers from the Twins and Rockies, respectively. And the team also signed infielder Kyren Paris to a one-year major league contract, only to designate both Paris and Cairo for assignment shortly thereafter.
Cairo, 25, came to the Mets organization late last season after being released by the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Phillies. He was drafted in 2019 and developed by the Guardians before electing free-agency at the end of 2024. Over three seasons at Triple-A, he’s batted .233/.361/.314 with eight home runs, seven triples, and 41 doubles. He’s logged innings at second base, third base, and shortstop. The financial terms of the split contract are unknown at this time.
Anderson, who will be 27 when the season begins, made his big league debut in 2026, pitching in relief for both the Red Sox and the Twins. He logged 12.1 innings over seven appearances, striking out 12 and walking three while surrendering ten hits. In the minors in 2026, he started 16 games and made 12 relief appearances.
Ohl, 27, was drafted by the Twins in 2021 before being traded alongside Eduoard Julien in January of this year. He made three starts and 11 relief appearances for the Twins in 2025. Ohl missed all of the 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John Surgery in February.
Paris is entering his age-25 season next year, and he’s spent the entirety of his career thus far in the Angels organization. He’s made 263 plate appearances at the major league level with a 45 wRC+.
On the subtractions front, RHP Philip Abner and LHP Cameron Weston were claimed on waivers by the Orioles and Marlins, respectively. In addition, Eric Wagaman elected free-agency instead of accepting his assignment to Triple-A Syracuse.
If Abner’s name is unfamiliar, it is because the 24-year-old was claimed off waivers by the Mets on September 23 and did not play a single inning for the organization at any level. Weston was claimed slightly earlier (September 3), and the then-25 year old pitched in four Syracuse games in September.
Wagaman, 29, was claimed off waivers from the Twins in late April and provided a right-handed counterpart to Jared Young at first base for much of the year. His .191/.269/.319 batting line didn’t inspire much confidence, but in his limited playing time, Wagaman was not quite cromulent, but wasn’t a disaster.
Finally, Cristian Pache accepted his assignment to Triple-A, and three players were reinstated from the 60-day injured list: Tylor Megill, Reed Garrett, and Jorge Polanco. Pache was one of the myriad players brought in ahead of the 2026 season for depth and provided that, logging 15 appearances for the Mets while getting ample playing time in Syracuse.
Megill, 2022 Opening Day starter and starter of the 2022 combined no-hitter, underwent Tommy John in September of 2025 and missed the entirety of this last season. He made $2.5 million n 2026 and is arbitration eligible for the next two seasons. Garrett, like Megill, went under the knife in October 2025 and missed all of this season. He is also arbitration eligible and collected $1.3 million last year.
Everyone knows the story of Polanco, signed to a two-year, $40 million dollar deal, reportedly to play first base, but he only appeared in 37 games for the Mets and was dreadful in those appearances.
