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Carpenter and Torkelson help extend Tigers’ winning streak

Jun 5, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers right fielder Kerry Carpenter (30) gets showered with sunflower seeds while celebrating in the dugout after hitting a two-run home run against the Seattle Mariners in the third inning at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images | Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Tigers have extended their winning streak to four, and it’s starting to look like it’s not just luck. They beat the Mariners 7-3 on Friday night.

The Tigers were back in Detroit after a very hot and cold road trip. They were still riding the high of their sweep of the Rays at the start of the week, and hoping to bring that good luck home with them. They had Gleyber Torres, who has been excellent since his return, and on the mound, they were leaning on Framber Valdez. The Mariners had Bryan Woo up, who has been great for them in a very uneven season for the M’s.

J.P Crawford got things going for the Mariners in the first with a leadoff single. Julio Rodriguez singled right behind him. Two outs followed, but then Rob Refsnyder singled, bringing Crawford home and putting the Mariners on the board first. Gleyber Torres continued his hot streak, starting the bottom of the inning with a single. Kevin McGonigle then grounded into a force out, eliminating Torres at second. Two more outs followed and the Tigers left a man stranded.

Valdez, after giving up three singles in the first, got into a much better groove in the second, getting the Mariners out in order. In the home half, Riley Greene singled to get things going. Spencer Torkelson hit a force out that initially looked like a single with Greene getting safely to first, but the Mariners challenged and the call was overturned with Greene out. Two more outs followed.

In the top of the third, Crawford was hit by a pitch to get a free bag. While he did stay in the game to run, he would later exit the game between the top and bottom of the inning. He was eliminated in a double play off the bat of Rodriguez and then one more out ended the inning. With one out in the home half, Torres singled again. McGonigle then singled, sending Torres to third. A Dillon Dingler fly ball turned into a force out, getting McGonigle out at second, putting Dingler safely at first, and scoring Torres. Then Kerry Carpenter came in to hit a home run to right. The Tigers found themselves in the lead, 3-1.

Josh Naylor and Rob Refsnyder hit back-to-back singles to start the fourth. Three outs in a row, followed though, as Valdez showed some evident frustration in himself, but pulled it together to get out of the jam. The Tigers went down in order in the bottom of the inning.

With two outs in the fifth Rodriguez walked. He then stole second. Randy Arozarena walked, and then Rodriguez stole third and Arozarena stole second. Despite having two runners in scoring position and rain falling steadily, Valdez got himself out of the inning relatively unscathed and with no runs scored. The Tigers went 1-2-3 in the home half, but the final out of the inning, a McGonigle groundout to first, resulted in McGonigle colliding with first baseman Naylor so hard Kevin’s helmet flew off. He looked okay, but it was still pretty ugly.

After a few uneven innings and an elevated pitch count, Valdez was done for the night with a final line of 5.0 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 5 K on 102 pitches. He was replaced by Drew Anderson. The Mariners went three-up, three-down with the final out of the inning being on an incredible diving catch from Riley Greene.

Dillon Dingler got the home half going with a leadoff single. A Carpenter pop out and Greene hitting into a double play ended the inning.

With one out in the top of the seventh, Colt Emerson hit a solo home run to bring the Mariners within one. After the second out, Rodriguez doubled, but Seattle didn’t score any additional runs. In the bottom of the inning, Colt Keith got a one-out single. We then got Zach-to-Zack singles from McKinstry and Short. Woo’s game was done at that point, replaced by Eduard Bazardo. Torres doubled to right and Victor Robles misread the play, missing the catch completely, and sending two runs home.

Tyler Holton was the next pitcher out of the Tigers’ pen and he gave up a leadoff double to Naylor. After a Canzone groundout moved Naylor to third, Kerry Carpenter completely lost a routine fly ball, allowing Naylor to score. Cole Young singled, and that was all she wrote for Holton, who was replaced by Kyle Finnegan. The Tigers got to breathe a big sigh of relief as the next two outs followed, but those extra insurance runs were really coming in handy now. Alex Hoppe came in from the Mariners’ pen. With one out, Greene singled. Then Spencer Torkelson hit a home run to left.

Will Vest was in for the Tigers in the top of the ninth. With two outs, Arozarena doubled, followed by a walk to Naylor. Not ideal. Even though the drama got dialled up to eleven, Vest came through and got the final out of the inning to secure the Tigers’ win.

Final: Tigers 7, Mariners 3

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Knicks in firm control of NBA Finals after surviving Spurs rally: Takeaways

Editor's Note: Click here for a recap and highlights from Game 2 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs.

It’s a bad night to be a broom in New York City.

The New York Knicks, once again, outplayed the San Antonio Spurs Friday, June 5 in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, taking a commanding 2-0 lead as the series turns to New York.

New York, which withstood a late charge from San Antonio, stunned the Spurs on their own home, 105-104, on a free throw by Jalen Brunson with 9.5 seconds left to play to win the game.

Brunson got to the line on a bad pass from Victor Wembanyama in the final seconds of the game, as the Spurs were trying to get up the floor on a defensive rebound. Wembanyama tossed a pass ahead, but Stephon Castle wasn’t looking, so the ball bounced off his back, allowing Brunson to scoop it up. Wembanyama then fouled Brunson, putting him on the line.

Later on, the Spurs had the chance to win the game, but Wembanyama’s would-be game-winning jumpshot rimmed out.

So now, with Madison Square Garden set to host the the next two games, the Knicks are just a pair of wins away from a sweep and from claiming their first NBA championship in 53 years.

New York has won 13 consecutive playoff games, including eight consecutive on the road.

Here are live takeaways from Game 2 of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs:

NBA Finals Game 2 score: Knicks 105, Spurs 104

TEAM1234F
Knicks25312821105
Spurs34182329104

Karl-Anthony Towns, once again, was the best player on the floor. It’s going to guide New York to a title

Just like he was in Game 1, Karl-Anthony Towns lifted the Knicks on both ends of the floor. And with the Knicks now carrying their 2-0 lead, his dominance over Wembanyama across stretches has New York close to erasing its 53-year title drought.

His offense has been stellar. Towns led the Knicks with 21 points — 17 of which came in the first half — on 8-of-12 shooting, adding 13 rebounds and 4 assists.

Towns stretched the floor, opening up the space for his teammates to attack.

But it’s his defense that is going to get the Knicks their first title in 53 seasons — as long as New York keeps this up.

Towns has been dominant on Wembanyama, using his size and strength to body Wembanyama and make him feel Towns’ presence. In the first half, Wembanyama played timidly, apparently perplexed about how to break through Towns’ physicality. Frankly, it’s determining the outcome of the series.

At the half, Wembanyama had just 7 points on only 4 shot attempts. Wembanyama did drop 22 in the second half, but the early struggles put San Antonio in a hole.

And while Mitchell Robinson also had massive defensive possessions against Wembanyama late in the game, Towns is the reason Wembanyama looked lost early in the game.

Early on, Victor Wembanyama took what the defense gave him. He needed to be far more assertive — far earlier

At the half, after the Knicks had made several runs, Wembanyama had taken just four shot attempts. New York, of course, deserves credit for showing bodies any time Wembanyama touched the ball, but his response, mostly, was to drift around the perimeter.

He tried to drive and create opportunities for his teammates, but that led to two turnovers. During one of those, late in the second quarter, Devin Vassell passed him the ball on the right wing. Almost immediately after he saw the Knicks defense approaching, Wembanyama tried to dump the ball back to Vassell, who had started to relocate. The ball skipped out of bounds.

In short: Wembanyama was just out of rhythm in the first half.

It’s often difficult, when opponents are game planning for a single player, for that person to find the balance between taking a steady diet of shots but not forcing them.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson will also need to find ways to manufacture easier offense for Wembanyama, because having him standing around, watching other players operate will make it difficult for the Spurs to win.

Wembanyama did pick it up in the third quarter, taking 8 shot attempts and scoring 12 points in the period, but the slow start put San Antonio in a position where they need to play from behind.

Mikal Bridges had the role playing impact that wins championships

Not only is he one of the toughest defenders in the NBA with his length and shiftiness, but Bridges has been on a generational heater this postseason — at least after he struggled early in the first round.

Bridges entered the fourth quarter 8-of-9 — having made eight consecutive shots — and finished the game with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 1 steal. He hit his first 4 3-pointers of the game and hit timely basket after timely basket.

Having another potent scorer on the floor mitigated the tough shooting night from Jalen Brunson, who shot just 7-of-25 from the floor.

Desperate Spurs ramped up their defensive intensity

The natural response was always going to be for San Antonio to play with a different level of urgency in Game 2. The Spurs, from the very first seconds of the game, played with a level of force and physicality they didn’t have two nights ago.

For one, San Antonio’s speedy and aggressive guards De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle picked up full-court pressure on made baskets. Once the ball crossed half court, the Spurs also stayed in front of New York’s players with lateral quickness.

Then, once the Knicks tried to foray into the paint, Spurs defenders collapsed to show bodies and clog the area.

The Knicks opened the game shooting just 6-of-17 (35.3%) from the field and New York scored just 2 points in the paint in the first 7:44 of the game.

Spurs also made it a priority to get paint touches

In Game 1, San Antonio backed down from New York’s physical defense and settled for jumpers. In the first quarter of Game 2, the Spurs spammed attacks in the paint to space the floor, setting up sprays to perimeter or high-percentage looks near the rim.

This is San Antonio’s recipe for success. The Spurs led in points in the paint in the first quarter by a 18-8 margin.

The Spurs shot a blistering 65% from the field in the first.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Knicks vs Spurs live analysis, score: Wembanyama misses game winner

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NBA Finals Game 2 fit check: Karl-Anthony Towns, Devin Vassell blossom

The NBA Finals continues with Game 2 on Friday, June 5.

The San Antonio Spurs hope to rebound from losing the series opener at home to the New York Knicks. But as a team, they did win in the tunnel as the more fashionable franchise.

For Game 2, there is a mix of style statements. It's hard to beat the iconic habit that the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco will be wearing to cheer on the Spurs. But we have suits and sweats, a statement jacket and some shorts that are simply happy.

The Knicks are back in the Finals for the first time since 1999. This year's championship is a rematch of that series, which the Spurs won. Sports media didn't embrace fashion like we do now, so fans don't have a record of who won the fashion in that series, but we are here to make sure we have a winner of this one.

Here is the NBA Finals Game 2 Fit Check:

7. Jeremy Sochan - New York Knicks

Starting us off is Jeremy Sochan. He wanted to be free and wore this breezy black V-neck button-up without a shirt. The tan shorts are a little wrinkly, but with the snappy patent dress shoes, we appreciate the effort to be different.

6. Mikal Bridges - New York Knicks

Mikal Bridges kept it clean and we have no notes. He went with an easy chore jacket in a really pretty cornflower blue color. It's from JW Anderson's collab with Guinness. The Knicks guard isn't Irish like the two brands, but with some well-fitting cream cargo pants and white Air Force 1s, he wears it well.

New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges arrives at the arena before Game 2 of the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks.

5. Stephon Castle - San Antonio Spurs

If we told you Stephon Castle wore a graphic tee and sweats for Game 2, you would probably ask what's the big deal? The key here is color coordination. The Spurs guard perfectly matched the details of his Harley-Davidson t-shirt to the blue color of his sweatpants and we love it.

4. Jordan Clarkson - New York Knicks

After turning heads with the perfect amount of glitz for Game 1, Jordan Clarkson delivered again for Game 2. The Knicks guard wore a custom Who Decides War jacket repping his team with orange and black color blocking and a studded collar. The sleeves of the jacket have the brand's signature stained glass design and the back features a silhouette of the Statue of Liberty. He let the jacket be the statement piece with long leather shorts and black boots.

New York Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson arrives at the arena before Game 2 of the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks.

3. Bismack Biyombo - San Antonio Spurs

Bismack Biyombo has been quietly killing the suit game. He JUST missed out on the Game 1 fit check because you have to draw the line somewhere, right? But this luxe satin forest green suit he wore for Game 2 HAD to be included. It fits well, the brown tie and pocket kerchief ground the look and the single-breasted jacket keeps it cool.

2. Devin Vassell - San Antonio Spurs

Devin Vassell's look was all about the details. The Spurs guard was straight heat in a white suit that was just enough oversized. The burnout texture at the bottom of the jacket and pants also kept this far from boring. The pops of color with the key lime Louis Vuitton duffel, little flower brooch and gemstone rosary necklace make this outfit a must-see.

1. Karl-Anthony Towns - New York Knicks

Karl-Anthony Towns looked effortless, which is the best way to be. He wore an oversized white button-up with a single chain around the collar. The statement piece was a pair of excellent oversized shorts from Joshua Samuels. The London-based brand specializes in upcycling and plants a tree with every order. The flowers are the perfect proportion on the shorts and just make us happy. What more could you want?

Jun 5, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns arrives at the arena before the game between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks in game two of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Karl-Anthony Towns, Devin Vassell top best looks of NBA Finals Game 2

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Washington Nationals vs Arizona Diamondbacks Game Thread

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 03: Blake Butera #10 of the Washington Nationals walks to the mound to make a pitching change during the ninth inning against the Miami Marlins at Nationals Park on June 03, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The sweep at the hands of the Marlins was demoralizing, but the Nats need to bounce back. They got a day off to re-set, and now they start the first west coast trip of the series. The Nats will square off against a Diamondbacks team that sneakily is in second place in the NL West.

I have a feeling this lineup from Blake Butera will not be very popular. Curtis Mead, Jacob Young and Keibert Ruiz are all on the bench. That means Jorbit Vivas will be at third, Dylan Crews will be in center and Drew Millas will be behind the plate. Jose Tena will also be hitting third and in the DH spot. Foster Griffin will be on the mound.

The Diamondbacks have an extreme mix of youth and experience. Veterans like Corbin Carroll, Nolan Arenado, Geraldo Perdomo and Ketel Marte are in the lineup. However, there are also rookies like Ryan Waldschmidt and the debuting LuJames Groover in the lineup. We will not see old pal Ildemaro Vargas tonight after he collided with Max Muncy yesterday. Veteran Merrill Kelly will be on the hill for the Snakes.

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Game Info:

Stadium: Chase Field

Time: 9:40 PM EST

TV: Nationals.TV

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

This is a very important series for the Nats after the Marlins debacle. Will this be a June swoon or was that Marlins series just a blip on the radar. We will find out this weekend. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!

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Diamondbacks vs. Nationals discussion

People hike through the red rock landscapes of Munds Mountain Wilderness in Sedona, Arizona. This scenic area, known for its dramatic formations and desert views, is part of the Coconino National Forest. (Photo by Ronen Tivony/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images

Today’s Lineups

NATIONALSDIAMONDBACKS
James Wood – RFKetel Marte – 2B
Luis Garcia – 1BRyan Waldschmidt – LF
Jose Tena – DHCorbin Carroll – RF
CJ Abrams – SSNolan Arenado – 3B
Daylen Lile – LFLuJames Groover – 1B
Jorbit Vivas – 3BGeraldo Perdomo – SS
Dylan Crews – CFTommy Troy – DH
Drew Millas – CAramis Garcia – C
Nasim Nunez – 2BJorge Barrosa – CF
Foster Griffin – LHPMerrill Kelly – RHP

Roster moves

The Arizona Diamondbacks made the following roster moves. The D-backs’ 40-man roster is at 40.

  • Selected INF LuJames Groover (No. 16) from Triple-A Reno
  • Optioned to Triple-A Reno: INF Jose Fernandez
  • Designated for assignment: RHP Taylor Rashi

And right into the starting line-up at first-base tonight goes Groover. He was drafted by the D-backs in the second-round (#48 overall) of the 2023 draft, out of North Carolina State University, and is immediately one of my favorite D-backs because he shares my birthday of April 16 [S’funny, we never had a D-back born that day before this year, but there are two in tonight’s starting line-up, in Groover and Nolan Arenado] He was an Futures All-Star last season, and in 56 games this year for the Triple-A Reno Aces, has a line of .322/.421/.452 for an .893 OPS. Almost as many walks (37) as K’s (43), but only three HR – which in Reno means basically zero power.

It marks the end – for now – of the Fernandez saga. Jose had one of the all-time greatest debuts as a Diamondback, homering twice and driving in four runs on March 31st against Detroit. But it has almost all been downhill since then. Over 54 games since, he has hit .242/.278/.304 for a mere .582 OPS. However, Fernandez is still only 22 years old – almost eighteen months younger than Groover. He’ll go to Triple-A for what’s basically the first time, having played just one game there before being called up the big leagues. I’d not be at all surprised to see him back with the D-backs at some point down the line.

To make room for Groover on the 40-man roster, the team designated Rashi for assignment. To be fair, he turned 30 in January, and it’s not often 29-year-old debutants in MLB stick around. He did win his debut this year, pitching a scoreless 10th inning against Atlanta. But he got roughed up by the Orioles, leading to a quick ticket back down to Reno. His numbers there have actually been very good, with a 1.03 ERA across 26.1 innings, and just one home-run allowed. The K:BB of 26:12 isn’t so impressive though. Perhaps he’ll make it through waivers, and we’ll be able to keep him around the organization.

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Mets Injury Notes: Jorge Polanco needs more time, Francisco Alvarez could be back next homestand

With the Mets starting a three-game series with the San Diego Padres on Friday night, manager Carlos Mendoza gave updates on some of his injured players.

No Jorge Polanco in San Diego

When New York began this six-game West Coast road trip on Monday, the thought was that Polanco would be ready to re-join the team when it arrived in San Diego to play the Padres. However, that day has arrived and Polanco remains on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Syracuse.

"He’s playing right now. He’s DHing in Syracuse," Mendoza said. "We just felt like he needed to get volume there. Last game he only played four-to-five innings of defense. We gotta get him to a point where [he gets] four at-bats as a DH or seven innings of defense, at least. So we won’t see him here in San Diego."

While Polanco still needs more time, Mendoza is encouraged with how he has progressed during his rehab.

"The way he’s taking his swings, the way he’s rotating, he looks more healthy," the skipper said. "When you look at the way he’s rotating and standing on that back leg, which was something that we didn’t see before he went on the IL. When we were playing the Dodgers [in late April] you could see it was affecting him. But right now he looks in a better place with the way he’s taking his swings."

Polanco went 0-for-2 with two walks as Syracuse was no-hit by Brendan Beck (7 IP) and Carson Coleman (2 IP) of the Scranton-Wilkes/Barre RailRiders.

Goal for Francisco Alvarez

Along with Polanco, Alvarez is also in Friday's starting lineup with Triple-A, his third rehab appearance since recovering from a meniscus tear in his right knee on May 13.

Originally scheduled to be out for six-to-eight weeks, Alvarez is blowing past that number and is already in contention to return from the IL when the Mets return home on Tuesday for a six-game homestand.

"Alvy’s catching right now," Mendoza said. "The goal is for him to get I think seven [innings] today. He’s gonna go back-to-back [tomorrow]. So the goal, if everything goes well there, is to have him on the next homestand."

The skipper didn't specify exactly when during New York's homestand, but it stands to reason Alvarez could be back for the series opener against the St. Louis Cardinals which would put his recovery timeline at less than a month.

Alvarez went 0-for-3 with a strikeout before getting pulled for Kevin Parada.

Odds and ends

Ronny Mauricio (fractured thumb) has started running, but has yet to begin hitting.

Tyrone Taylor (right hip) started running yesterday.

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Game 62: New York Mets at San Diego Padres

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 4: Manny Machado #13 of the San Diego Padres celebrates with Gavin Sheets #30 after hitting a two run home run in the top of the seventh inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 4, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Padres 6-4. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images

New York Mets (27-35) at San Diego Padres (32-29), June 5, 2026, 6:40 p.m. PST

Watch: Padres.TV

Location: Petco Park – San Diego, Calif.

Listen: 97.3 The Fan

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Mets vs. Padres: Lineups, broadcast info, and open thread, 6/5/26

May 30, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Christian Scott (45) pitches against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Mets lineup

  1. Carson Benge – RF
  2. Bo Bichette – SS
  3. Juan Soto – LF
  4. Jared Young – 1B
  5. A.J. Ewing – CF
  6. Marcus Semien – 2B
  7. Brett Baty – 3B
  8. MJ Melendez – DH
  9. Luis Torrens – C

SP: Christian Scott – RHP

Padres lineup

  1. Fernando Tatis – RF
  2. Gavin Sheets – DH
  3. Manny Machado – 3B
  4. Ty France – 1B
  5. Jackson Merrill – CF
  6. Xander Bogaerts – SS
  7. Bryce Johnson – LF
  8. Sung-Mun Song – 2B
  9. Rodolfo Duran – C

SP: Michael King – RHP

Broadcast info

First pitch: 9:40 PM ET
TV: WPIX
Radio: Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880AM, Audacy App, 92.3 HD2

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Jeremy Lin returning to MSG for first time as fan since Knicks free-agency split

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Jeremy Lin is greeted by #2 Landry fields during the fourth quarter of a 2012 game
Jeremy Lin

Linsanity is returning to The Garden for Games 3 and 4 of the NBA Finals.

Former Knicks guard Jeremy Lin, who set the city ablaze in Feb. 2012 as an undrafted rookie out of Harvard, has only been back at Madison Square Garden as an opposing player after his unceremonious departure from the team – until now.

Lin told The Post in an exclusive interview that he has accepted an invitation from the team to return as a spectator for Games 3 and 4.

Jeremy Lin will be returning to MSG as a fan for the first time. Anthony J. Causi

“I will be going back as a spectator for the first time ever,” Lin said. “After leaving the Knicks, I did play against the Knicks multiple times, but I have never been back to The Garden as a spectator. This will be my first time in 14 years back at The Garden, not as an opposing player. I can’t wait. I really genuinely can’t wait for Game 3 and 4.”

Lim had a somewhat contentious split from the Knicks. He electrified the Garden for a month in 2012, becoming an instant fan favorite while shooting from anonymous bench player to stardom.

His star fizzled out upon the return of Carmelo Anthony from injury and he signed a deal with the Rockets in the offseason — the terms of which made it difficult for the Knicks to match in restricted free agency.

Lin, who joined ESPN for the NBA Finals as an NBA analyst, says he will attend the game at the Knicks’ request.

“A big shoutout to the Knicks, they have been really adamant and consistent about trying to get me to go back to a game,” Lin said. “I’ve always had the desire. It’s not that I didn’t want to, I was just always still playing. … I won’t be courtside but I will be in the first two rows.”

When asked about the potential crowd pop he gets from the Knicks faithful, he added that he has “no expectations” of cheers or applause — or even being shown on the Jumbotron.

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“Nova Knicks” NBA Finals Game 2: Open Thread

SAN ANTONIO, TX - JUNE 3: Josh Hart #3 of the New York Knicks drives to the basket during the game against the San Antonio Spurs during Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 3, 2026 at 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(Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Where: Frost Bank Center (San Antonio, TX)

When: Friday, June 5 at 8:30 PM EST

How to watch: ABC

Betting Line: SA -6.5 (subject to change), O/U 214.5 (subject to change) via FanDuel

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Stanley Cup Final, Game 2 – Player of the Game: Logan Stankoven

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - JUNE 04: Logan Stankoven #22 of the Carolina Hurricanes celebrates after a goal during the third period against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game Two of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final at Lenovo Center on June 04, 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Cato Cataldo/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

Halfway through the third period in Game 2, the Carolina Hurricanes were teetering on going down 2-0 and dropping both games at home to open the Stanley Cup against the Vegas Golden Knights. 

Down 2-0 midway through the third, the Canes hadn’t looked like the dominant team they’d been for the entirety of the regular season and playoffs. There were even talks of a potential Knights sweep at the second intermission. 

That’s when Logan Stankoven happened. 

After an offensive zone faceoff, Stankoven’s relentless forecheck resulted in him stripping the puck from Vegas defenseman Rasmus Andersson. Stankoven circled back behind the net and fired a backhander that bounced past Carter Hart to make it a one goal game. 

The goal not only helped the Canes back into the game, but it also got the crowd going. Carolina used that momentum and tied the game just over two minutes later when Mark Jankowski went bar down for his first goal of the playoffs. 

After both Carolina and Vegas each added another to send the game to overtime, Seth Jarvis scored the power play winner to tie the series 1-1 heading into Game 3. 

From talking about there being a potential sweep and the Canes looking as lifeless as they had all year, to tying up the series 1-1 and all the momentum being on Carolina’s side in a matter of half a period, all started by Stankoven’s hustle.

Stankoven now has 10 goals in the postseason to lead the Canes, adding three assists for a total of 13 points in 15 games. Carolina’s second line of Hall-Stankoven-Blake, which has really been their first line during the postseason, was the only group not to be split up by Rod Brind’Amour last night — speaking to their effectiveness. That group, led by Stankoven in the middle, has accounted for 20 goals and 44 points in the playoffs so far. 

With the Svechnikov-Aho-Jarvis line continuing to struggle, the second line has been able to maintain Carolina’s offensive production. 

In addition to scoring the goal that jump started the Canes’ comeback, Stankoven finished the game with two shots and had a 63.6 faceoff percentage, second to only Jordan Staal’s 70 percent. 

There were questions revolving around how Stankoven’s game would translate to the postseason due to his listed 5-foot-8 stature. But if this playoff run has shown anything, it’s that those worries were for nothing. 

Prior to the season and for some of the regular season, there was debate surrounding whether or not Carolina had a good enough 2C to compete for a Stanley Cup. Well, that question has been answered with Stankoven filling the role exceptionally well. Maybe the real question should’ve been if the Canes have a good enough 1C in Sebastian Aho to win the Stanley Cup. Aho has totaled just eight points in 15 games during these playoffs so far. 

While last night’s win was needed and momentum swinging, the Canes still need to steal one of the next two on the road to take back home ice advantage. 

Game 3 is set for tomorrow at 8 PM, where the Hurricanes look to take a 2-1 series lead and inch closer to bringing home the Stanley Cup. 

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Charles Barkley believes LeBron James should return to Cleveland

The NBA community awaits a decision on whether LeBron James plans to return for a 24th season in the league.

The 41-year-old star had stated on his “Mind the Game” podcast that he would contemplate a decision, but nothing would come before he spent time with family over Memorial Day weekend.

“Obviously, I understand that I’m a free agent and I can control my own destiny ... but like, I haven’t even really got to that point,” James said in mid-May. “I haven’t even taken my family vacation yet. … That’s kind of the thing at the forefront of my mind.”

Memorial Day weekend has come and gone, but things have remained fairly quiet publicly. A decision from James will be crucial to how the Lakers (and other teams) then approach free agency.

Charles Barkley was asked about James’ future when appearing on ESPN’s “Get Up” on Friday, June 5.

“LeBron only has one play and that’s to go back to Cleveland,” Barkley said. “That’s his only smart and logical choice.”

Barkley believes that James should’ve never left Cleveland after the 2017-18 season.

“They’ll probably be the favorites in the East or in that conversation,” Barkley said. “... It doesn’t do him any good to stay in L.A. Because No. 1, they aren’t going to be competitive in the West, and also it's time for the Lakers to turn the team over to (Luka Doncic).”

The Lakers were swept 4-0 by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals. James showed a glimpse of his younger self during the postseason, but it wasn’t going to be enough without Doncic.

“They are not going to be competitive,” Barkley said. “... If (James) stays in L.A., he is doing it for off-the-court reasons.

“If he goes to any other teams, it would just be like him trying to win championships to catch Michael Jordan. It wouldn’t make sense. … He can’t catch Michael Jordan as a mercenary in my opinion.”

James has won four NBA championships during his career, bringing at least one to every team he's played for (Miami in 2012 and 2013; Cleveland in 2016; Los Angeles in 2020).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Charles Barkley thinks LeBron James should return to Cleveland

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Guardians at Rangers, Messick vs. Rocker discussion

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 03: Kyle Manzardo #9 of the Cleveland Guardians celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the second inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on June 03, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Discuss below!

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MLB Predictions and Moneyline Picks for Saturday, June 6

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With every team in action, we're going back to the well with MLB moneyline predictions on Saturday, June 6.

There are only a couple of lopsided favorites on the slate, so our MLB picks are balancing between some obvious choices and a few underdogs to get the job done, including the Chicago White Sox as they step in against Philadelphia Phillies SP Andrew Painter.

MLB moneyline picks for June 6

MatchupPick
MarinersMariners
vs
TigersTigers		Mariners
-127
RoyalsRoyals
vs
TwinsTwins		Twins
-127
RedsReds
vs
CardinalsCardinals		Reds
+117
GiantsGiants
vs
CubsCubs		Cubs
-133
OriolesOrioles
vs
Blue JaysBlue Jays		Orioles
+108
White SoxWhite Sox
vs
PhilliesPhillies		White Sox
+117
PiratesPirates
vs
BravesBraves		Braves
-122
RaysRays
vs
MarlinsMarlins		Rays
-133
AthleticsAthletics
vs
AstrosAstros		Athletics
+113
NationalsNationals
vs
DiamondbacksDiamondbacks		Diamondbacks
-150
Red SoxRed Sox
vs
YankeesYankees		Red Sox
+117
GuardiansGuardians
vs
RangersRangers		Guardians
-104
BrewersBrewers
vs
RockiesRockies		Brewers
-233
AngelsAngels
vs
DodgersDodgers		Dodgers
-257
MetsMets
vs
PadresPadres		Mets
-104

Prices courtesy of Polymarket as of 6-5.

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Expert MLB moneyline picks for June 6

Mariners vs Tigers: Mariners (-127)

Mariners win probability: 56%

The Detroit Tigers seem to have righted a ship a bit, but the Seattle Mariners have been far superior, with a slightly misleading 33-30 record entering Friday. Their Pythagorean record is two wins better, and they have the second-best run differential in the American League.

Royals vs Twins: Twins (-127)

Twins win probability: 56%

Along with the Tigers, the Kansas City Royals are baseball's most disappointing team. Despite Bobby Witt Jr. doing everything in his power to lift the team out of the AL Central cellar, KC remains 10.5 games back in the division.

It's not as if the Minnesota Twins are world-beaters, likely punching above their weight class, but Joe Ryan offers them their best shot at picking up a win whenever he takes the mound, and the same can't be said for Royals righty Luinder Avila.

Reds vs Cardinals: Reds (+117)

Reds win probability: 46%

The Cincinnati Reds have not gotten much out of their rotation this year, but as Nick Lodolo continues to get stronger as he gets further away from a blister issue, I like their chances opposite the St. Louis Cardinals and fellow lefty Matthew Liberatore.

The Reds are fourth in MLB with 23rd home runs vs. left-handed pitchers, thanks to Spencer Steer, Elly De La Cruz, and Sal Stewart, and Liberatore has been snake-bitten by 10 homers in just 62 innings.

Giants vs Cubs: Cubs (-133)

Cubs win probability: 56%

I'd be tempted to take the underdog San Francisco Giants here if I were confident in Landen Roupp's health entering play. He dealt with back discomfort in his most recent outing, when he was rocked for eight runs on eight hits and five walks over four innings.

He felt good after a bullpen session, but I'll fade the punchless Giants offense against Chicago Cubs righty Ben Brown in tandem with uncertainty about Roupp.

Orioles vs Blue Jays: Orioles (+108)

Orioles win probability: 47%

The Toronto Blue Jays haven't announced a starter, but we know that it won't be Trey Yesavage (pitching Friday), Kevin Gausman (pitching Sunday), or Dylan Cease (still injured).

Baltimore Orioles starter Kyle Bradish has seemingly turned a corner from his early-season struggles, allowing two runs or fewer in four straight starts, including an excellent seven-inning performance against Toronto last time out.

White Sox vs Phillies: White Sox (+117)

White Sox win probability: 46%

I'm fading Philadelphia Phillies rookie Andrew Painter until he can show more consistency on the mound. Even with Munetaka Murakami sidelined, the Chicago White Sox have continued to win, going 7-3 in their last 10 entering Friday.

Painter has surrendered nine home runs in 53 1/3 innings, and Murakami's absence won't kneecap Chicago's power profile, as Colson Montgomery, Andrew Benintendi, and Miguel Vargas have combined to hit 25 home runs off right-handed pitching this season.

Pirates vs Braves: Braves (-122)

Braves win probability: 55%

The Atlanta Braves need to be considerably shorter, probably around -150, before I consider fading them in this matchup.

That's not to shade Pittsburgh Pirates starter Braxton Aschcraft, who's making it clear that prospect hounds maybe should have propped him up over Bubba Chandler in that system, but I am favoring a) the best offense in baseball and b) Spencer Strider, who has an easier task ahead of him, even if Ashcraft has been better/comparable in 2026.

Rays vs Marlins: Rays (-133)

Rays win probability: 56%

Shane McClanahan has allowed one or zero runs in six of his last seven starts. The Tampa Bay Rays lefty doesn't pitch deep into his starts (finishing the sixth only once in that span), but he's found success by limiting home runs.

The Miami Marlins are terrible against lefties, but they also aren't showcasing a ton of over-the-fence pop in those matchups, either. 

A's vs Astros: A's (+113)

A's win probability: 47%

Even if Tatsuya Imai has emerged through the fog of his early-season struggles, he still doesn't inspire much confidence.

This pick isn't exactly an endorsement of A's starter Kade Morris, who's making his MLB debut, though. He doesn't miss bats and has back-end rotation innings-eater written all over him. But if Nick Kurtz and the offense can show off some patience, they can chase Imai early en route to a high-scoring win.

I'd rather take the better number with the underdog here. 

Nationals vs Diamondbacks: Diamondbacks (-150)

Diamondbacks win probability: 60%

The Washington Nationals have arguably the best offense in baseball. They also have the dirt-worst pitching staff. While taking them at +144 is certainly tempting, Zack Littell is simply not a starter with whom I wish to put my confidence.

He ranks in the 15th percentile or worse in xERA, xBA, fastball velocity, average exit velocity, whiff rate, strikeout rate, barrell rate, hard-hit rate, and ground ball rate. Basically, he throws very hittable pitches in the zone that opponents are taking advantage of.

If anything, he's fortunate that his 5.01 ERA isn't a fair bit higher.

Red Sox vs Yankees: Red Sox (+117)

Red Sox win probability: 46%

Aaron Judge's absence looms large, and Will Warren comes back down to earth as the Boston Red Sox take one from the New York Yankees in the Bronx.

Ranger Suarez toeing the rubber also helps, as I don't have as much confidence in New York's lineup vs. lefties without Judge.

Guardians vs Rangers: Guardians (-104)

Guardians win probability: 51%

The Cleveland Guardians entered play on Friday at 36-28, leading the AL Central. Tanner Bibee is 0-7. Go figure. That will not last forever, even if he's been middling at best.

I like Cleveland's bats against Texas Rangers righty Jack Leiter enough to back Bibee & Co.

Brewers vs Rockies: Brewers (-233)

Brewers win probability: 70%

Maybe Jacob Misiorowski falls victim to Coors Field here, but sometimes you can't just roll the dice on maybes.

The Colorado Rockies strike out fourth-most in MLB, and no one punches people out quite like The Miz. 

Angels vs Dodgers: Dodgers (-257)

Dodgers win probability: 72%

The Los Angeles Angels remain pathetic. They have the worst record in baseball and don't deserve our endorsement, especially against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. 

Mets vs Padres: Mets (-104)

Mets win probability: 51%

Yeah, I know, Nolan McLean hit the skids a bit recently, but most of his struggles can be boiled down to two starts where he allowed 16 runs (13 earned) over nine innings.

Because they came in back-to-back appearances, the warning bells may have sounded a little louder than they otherwise might have.

The New York Mets aren't good, but the San Diego Padres are struggling hard, and Griffin Canning can't get anyone out.

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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