Vancouver Canucks 2025–26 Season Series Preview: Detroit Red Wings

Welcome back to another Vancouver Canucks 2025–26 season series preview. In this article series, The Hockey News - Canucks site previews Vancouver’s team series matchups for the season in chronological order. Last time, we looked at what the Canucks will face in the Utah Mammoth. Today, let’s preview their season matchups against the Detroit Red Wings.  

2024–25 Season Stats 

Team Stats: 

Record: 39–35–8

Points: 86

Standings placement: 6th in Atlantic Division 

PP%: 27% (4th) 

PK%: 70.1% (32nd) 

Goals: 

Alex DeBrincat (39)

Dylan Larkin (30)

Lucas Raymond (27)

Patrick Kane (21)

Marco Kasper (19)

Assists: 

Lucas Raymond (53)

Dylan Larkin (40)

Patrick Kane / Moritz Seider (38)

Alex DeBrincat (31)

Simon Edvinsson (24)

Points: 

Lucas Raymond (80)

Dylan Larkin / Alex DeBrincat (70)

Patrick Kane (59)

Moritz Seider (46)

Marco Kasper (37)

Goaltenders: 

John Gibson (Anaheim Ducks)

Record: 11–11–2

GAA: 2.77

SV%: .912

SO: N/A

Points: 1A 

Cam Talbot

Record: 21–19–5

GAA: 2.93

SV%: .901

SO: 2

Points: N/A 

2025 Free Agency Rundown 

The Red Wings made headlines even before the 2025 free agency period began, as they were part of a big NHL draft day trade that involved a goaltender swap. Long-rumoured trade bait from Anaheim, Gibson, was dealt to Detroit in exchange for Petr Mrazek, a 2026 fourth-round selection, and a 2027 second-round pick. As well as a crop full of contract extensions completed on June 30, one of which being former Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane, Detroit also brought in James Van Riemsdyk, Jacob Bernard-Docker, and Mason Appleton. They also signed 2025 first-round draft pick, Carter Bear, to his entry-level contract. 

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2025–26 Season Series Preview

Detroit was one of the more unpredictable teams during the 2024–25 regular season. They finished the year with a top-five ranked power play as well as the worst penalty kill in the NHL. Along with the Montréal Canadiens, Columbus Blue Jackets, and both the New York Rangers and New York Islanders at times, they were within contention for a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. It’ll be tough for the team to improve on last year’s efforts while in such a competitive division, especially with many of their opponents making notable additions or regaining key players. 

Vancouver and Detroit split their season series in 2024–25, with both games ending in overtime. These two teams finished in similar positions within their conference — close to playoffs, but allowing them to slip out of reach towards the end. Detroit’s biggest addition that the Canucks will need to keep an eye on is Gibson, who will likely take a starting role and allow Talbot to back him up. While Vancouver and Detroit had time to wait between their two matchups last year, in 2025–26, they’ll play each other on December 8 in Vancouver and on January 8 in Detroit. 

2025–26 Games Against Vancouver

Game 1: December 8, 7:00pm PT @ Rogers Arena

Game 2: January 8, 4:00pm PT @ Little Caesars Arena 

Feb 2, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser (6) watches as defenseman Marcus Pettersson (29) defends against Detroit Red Wings forward Marco Kasper (92) in the third period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Season Series Preview Articles

Utah Mammoth

Los Angeles Kings

San Jose Sharks

Anaheim Ducks

Florida Panthers

Tampa Bay Lightning

Winnipeg Jets

Colorado Avalanche

Columbus Blue Jackets

Minnesota Wild

New York Rangers

Montréal Canadiens

Nashville Predators

Pittsburgh Penguins

Washington Capitals

Chicago Blackhawks

Dallas Stars

St. Louis Blues

Edmonton Oilers

Calgary Flames

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Adelaide’s chance to break streak of sadness is at hand in this year’s AFL finals | Geoff Lemon

Winning a premiership would not heal the hurt felt after the death of Phil Walsh 10 years ago but it would mean something to some

Given how appealing humans find metric milestones and closure, there exists a nice thought about an awful story. Adelaide finished this year on top of the ladder, with a second shot at a preliminary final if they can get past Hawthorn this Friday night. Ten years since former coach Phil Walsh died in 2015, the Crows are a chance of a flag. It would not heal any principal hurts, but it would mean something to some.

The mid-season death of a coach would have shaken the club whatever the circumstances, especially after losing assistant coach Dean Bailey to cancer the year before, but Walsh’s case was even harder to fathom given it came from a domestic tragedy: a father fatally injured while his son suffered a psychotic episode. Given that any coaching role has a parental aspect, such a tragedy within a family felt obscenely unfair on all involved.

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Ottawa 67’s 2024 Fifth-Round Pick Excited To Debut For Hometown Team Following NCAA Eligibility Change

Thomas Vandenberg skating for the Ottawa 67's during this year's training camp. The speedy forward showed instant chemistry with multiple returning players while showcasing his skill and intelligence [OTTAWA 67s Denielle Gaudette].

Article written by Rowan McCarthy

The NCAA ruling on CHL-player eligibility last November turned the junior hockey landscape upside down. Prior to the November ruling, any player who joined a CHL team became ineligible to play NCAA hockey. The change created an environment where the CHL is now a viable destination for elite young players who want to preserve the option to secure an education while they develop as hockey players in the NCAA. 

Ottawa native Thomas Vandenberg is one of the players profiting from the change as he no longer needs to decide between his educational interests and playing hockey at an elite level for his hometown team. 

Ottawa 67’s GM James Boyd described taking Vandenberg in the fifth round of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection as a strategic choice. 

“[Vandenberg] was a key player on his Myers team when we drafted him … He really would have been a much higher pick in the OHL if he was committed to the league at the time,” said Boyd. “He went down to Cedar Rapids, and we had a chance to watch him a few times. What really stood out is his skating and poise with the puck.” 



As mentioned by Boyd, the 2008-born center decided to take his talents to the Cedar Rapids Roughriders in the USHL in order to protect a potential future in the NCAA. Like the majority of young hockey talents, Vandenberg wanted to play at the highest level possible; however, he and his family also placed a premium on education. 

“I wanted to go to college,” said Vandenberg when discussing his decision. “Economics is big for me, that’s the main thing I wanted to go for. Going to the USHL allowed that, as well as being a great league with great development, so it all piled together into one, and it ended up being a good decision.”

In 55 games with Cedar Rapids, the speedy forward scored nine goals and nine assists, finishing tenth on the team in scoring. 

While assessing options at the end of last season, he had 67’s goaltender Jaeden Nelson attempting to sway him towards returning to Ottawa. 

“I don’t take all the credit, there are people who get paid a lot of money to do that,” said Nelson, who is also an Ottawa native. “His draft year, we were in high school math class together, so I was in his ear the whole time wanting him to come play for us … After the rule change, I got right back on him again trying to get him here.” 

Coming home to Ottawa comes with benefits beyond hockey. In going to the USHL, Vandenberg had no choice but to move away from his family. At the age of 15, the idea of moving to the United State alone must have been daunting. Thomas’ father, Pat Vandenberg, mentioned that while his son faced challenges in moving away from home at such a young age, he and his wife Carolin hope that he’s grown from the experience. This year, he will be able to play hockey while enjoying the comforts of his home and family.

“The hometown opportunity for Thomas is pretty much a no-brainer because we know this is an excellent program and Thomas seems really ready for this opportunity,” said Pat. “As parents … it’s very hard for your 15/16-year-old to leave. It’s quite nice to have that opportunity for your youngest to come back home … We’re excited about that. Very much so.”

Colorado Avalanche Prospect Christian Humphreys Confidence Rekindled After Leaving The NCAA For OHL's Kitchener RangersColorado Avalanche Prospect Christian Humphreys Confidence Rekindled After Leaving The NCAA For OHL's Kitchener RangersShould OHL players leave for opportunities to play collegiate-level hockey in the NCAA? That is a conversation that is constantly being had since we are seeing more and more high-end players from the CHL leave their junior teams to play in the NCAA. 

A Retooling Team

Vandenberg, who said he models his game after Boston Bruins legend Patrice Bergeron, played extremely well at Ottawa’s training camp, showing a lot of chemistry with returning players like Nic Whitehead and Kohyn Eshkawkogan. He made full use of his poise and skating skills as he blew past defenders on two occasions to create scoring opportunities. 

While he will undoubtedly need time to adjust to the OHL, he will have plenty of opportunity to shine on what will be a younger 67’s squad. After missing the playoffs last year, Ottawa retooled during the offseason, adding young talent like 2025 third-overall pick Brock Chitaroni and second-round pick Jack Johnson

The CHL changed its Import Draft rules this summer allowing teams to roster three import players rather than two. As a result, Ottawa scooped up Czech defender Ondrej Ruml with the eighth-overall pick in the draft before taking Finnish forward Jasper Kuhta in the second. They will play alongside Swedish star forward Filip Ekberg, Ottawa’s third import player.

In terms of returning players, the 67’s faithful should look for Ekberg to have a big season. The second-year man was selected in the seventh round of the 2025 NHL Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes. Prior to the draft, he led the U-18 World Junior Championship with 10 goals and eight assists on the way to winning a silver medal and simultaneously breaking the Swedish record for most points scored at the tournament.

Both Kohyn Eshkawkogan and Nathan Amidovski seem to have taken a step forward. Eshkawkogan looked silky smooth during training camp, using his dazzling hands and skating ability to dance through opponents, while Amidovski consistently created opportunities using his size and puck protection skills. Amidovski has goals in both of Ottawa’s opening preseason games, a positive sign for a player who struggled at times during his rookie campaign. 


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Latest OHL News:

GOJHL Becomes First Official Development League Of The OHLGOJHL Becomes First Official Development League Of The OHLThe Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has announced a new partnership with the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL), effective to begin the 2025-26 season.  Former OHL Teammates Dealt For Each Other In NHL Trade Former OHL Teammates Dealt For Each Other In NHL Trade A minor NHL trade went down on Sept. 4 between the Seattle Kraken and the Philadelphia Flyers. The two players involved in the deal have a history with each other from their time in the OHL, which includes winning an OHL Championship with the Peterborough Petes in 2023.  Kitchener Rangers & Guelph Storm Named Finalists To Host 2027 Memorial Cup Kitchener Rangers & Guelph Storm Named Finalists To Host 2027 Memorial Cup The finalists to host the 2027 Memorial Cup tournament have been named. The Guelph Storm and Kitchener Rangers, OHL rival organizations, have been announced as the two finalists.

Coffee and TV: Jamie Vardy’s trip to Italy would make a fine documentary

It was fitting that Jamie Vardy was given an audience at the Violin Museum in Cremona, because at least they had access to a very small one to play for the striker about having to finish his career in picturesque Lombardy rather than the East Midlands. He is also a classical showman but, aged 38, some suspect that the former England international is a spent force. Vardy has been doubted from Stocksbridge Park Steels to the Champions League, though, and has always delivered. “It is up to me to disprove the predictions,” he chirped. “Age is just a number. I always listen to my legs. At the moment I still feel great. During my whole career I have been underestimated and I worked to prove everyone wrong, and I have succeeded in doing that.”

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Jacob deGrom going back to where career began to face Mets for first time since joining Rangers

ARLINGTON, Texas — Jacob deGrom is excited to be going back to where his career began, the home stadium where he made 109 of his 245 starts in the big leagues and had back-to-back Cy Young Award-winning seasons with the New York Mets.

“It holds a special place in my heart,” deGrom said. “I pitched a lot there, and Mets fans were always good to me. So taking the mound in front of that crowd was always a fun experience.”

Now the lanky right-hander will find out if that holds true when pitching against them.

DeGrom is set to face the Mets on Friday night for the first time since leaving in free agency after the 2022 season and signing with the Texas Rangers. The teams contending for playoff spots in their respective leagues open a three-game series at Citi Field.

“With what he did for the Mets, how much time he spent there, I’m sure he’s probably going to have some memories and emotions even before he pitches,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. “He’ll be well-received, no doubt. But it’s going to be a big game, so there may be some scattered boos in there.”

Comeback season

The 37-year-old deGrom (11-7, 2.78 ERA) was the only All-Star player from the Rangers this season. His 27 starts and 155 2/3 innings are the most since his last Cy Young Award in 2019, before the pandemic-shortened 2020 season and then a series of injury-plagued years with New York and Texas.

“The main thing coming into this year was try to take the ball as many times as I can. I didn’t know how many times that would be. ... The goal is to just keep it going,” deGrom said this week.

“He looks great, he does. I’m really pleasantly surprised at how well this has gone for him this year because, you know, you don’t know,” Bochy said. “This is a lot of work for him after that surgery and not pitching for a couple of years, almost three. ... Yeah, it’s gone very well.”

Earlier this season, deGrom set a Rangers franchise record with 14 consecutive starts going at least five innings and not giving up more than two runs. That same span was the longest streak by any traditional starter (not including openers) in the modern era since 1900 of not allowing more than six hits and two runs in a game, according to STATS. He also came the closest he ever has to a no-hitter when allowing only a leadoff single in the eighth inning June 25 at Baltimore, a month after the only start in his career without a strikeout.

Missing the Mets

When Texas played the Mets each of the past two seasons, deGrom both times was recovering from the Tommy John surgery he had after only six starts in his Rangers debut. They went to New York late in the 2023 season before winning their first World Series championship that fall, and hosted a three-game series in Arlington last year.

In his last start at Citi Field, deGrom had 13 strikeouts in five innings without a decision in the Mets’ win over Pittsburgh on Sept. 18, 2022. His major league debut was also there, when he went seven innings and allowed the lone run in a 1-0 Subway Series loss to the Yankees on May 15, 2014.

Injury woes

DeGrom had a 1.08 ERA over 92 innings through 15 starts in 2021, but didn’t pitch in the All-Star Game and missed the rest of that season with right forearm tightness and a sprained elbow. He was shut down during spring training in 2022 after a stress reaction in his right scapula, then was 5-4 with a 3.08 ERA in 11 starts over the final two months of that season before becoming a free agent.

The five-year, $185 million contract deGrom signed with Texas included a conditional sixth-year club option for 2028 that was triggered because of the time missed after Tommy John surgery. That option is worth at least $20 million, and could be up to $37 million depending on his total innings pitched and if finishing top five in Cy Young voting.

Playoff chase

Texas (77-70) has won 15 of its last 20 games and is seven games over .500 for the first time this season. The Rangers will go from New York to Houston for three games against the AL West-leading Astros, and are also trying to get past division foe Seattle for the American League’s final wild card.

The Mets are unlikely to catch Philadelphia for the NL East title, but are trying to stay ahead in the NL wild-card race.

“All these games for us are very important. Same for them,” deGrom said. “So it’s gong to be fun. We’ve got to win, they’ve got to win. It’s going to be a playoff atmosphere.”

Rögle Closing In on Calvin de Haan as More Ex-NHLers Arrive in the SHL

The Swedish site HockeyNews.se reports that former NHL player Calvin de Haan is close to signing with Rögle in the SHL. de Haan has previously been linked to several other SHL clubs, such as Brynäs, but is now only a few contract details away from joining Rögle, according to the report.

de Haan split last season between the Colorado Avalanche and the New York Rangers, playing 44 games for Colorado and three for the Rangers. The defenseman from Carp, Ontario, was traded to the Rangers along with Juuso Parssinen, a second-round pick, and a fourth-round pick in 2025. In return, the Avalanche received Ryan Lindgren, Jimmy Vesey, and Hank Kempf.

de Haan would be another addition to the growing list of players who have joined the SHL after spending time in the NHL. Below is a list of notable names who have signed with SHL clubs.

Nicklas Bäckström (C), Brynäs IF

The biggest name to sign in the SHL since the lockout seasons. The hype around Bäckström has been huge, and he’s by far the signing that has received the most attention ahead of the season start.

 

Nicklas Bäckström Ready for a New Chapter in the SHL - Community PostNicklas Bäckström Ready for a New Chapter in the SHL - Community PostNicklas Bäckström continues his preparations for the SHL opener on Saturday. On Tuesday, the SHL held its annual media day, where Bäckström was in the spotlight.

Jakub Vrána (RW), Linköpings HC

An exciting signing who is arriving in the SHL at a different stage of his career compared to the previously mentioned Nicklas Bäckström. Jakub Vrána spent most of his NHL career in Washington, where he was teammates with Bäckström. In total, he played 406 NHL games, recording 119 goals and 223 points.

 

Kieffer Bellows (LW), Brynäs IF

Bellows was drafted 19th overall by the New York Islanders in 2016. The former first-round pick is a fast-skating power forward with a strong shot. In total, he played 114 NHL games and recorded 32 points.

 

Magnus Hellberg (G), Djurgårdens IF

Hellberg returns to Sweden after 13 years abroad. Although he has only played seven NHL games, he has managed to start games for the Predators, Rangers, Red Wings, Senators and Penguins. It is quite a unique accomplishment.

Gustav Lindström (D), Djurgårdens IF

Lindström most recently played for the Laval Rocket, the AHL affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, where he appeared in 42 games and recorded 11 points last season. He was drafted 38th overall in the 2017 NHL Draft by the Detroit Red Wings.

 

Charles Hudon (LW), Djurgårdens IF

Djurgården made another high-profile signing by bringing in Charles Hudon, who most recently played for the Ontario Reign in the AHL. With the LA Kings’ affiliate, he recorded an impressive 20 goals and 64 points in 67 games last season. Hudon brings much-needed offensive production as Djurgården heads into the new season after earning promotion from the second-tier HockeyAllsvenskan to the SHL.

NHL Rumor Roundup: Crosby Addresses Trade Rumors, Quinn Hughes Reacts To Brother's Comments

The Pittsburgh Penguins are rebuilding their roster, even though management won't admit it. Forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell and defenseman Erik Karlsson have been frequently mentioned as trade candidates throughout the off-season.

Even Sidney Crosby hasn't been spared the trade conjecture, though his name hasn't popped up as often.

Nevertheless, there was sporadic chatter earlier this summer linking the 38-year-old Penguins superstar to the Colorado Avalanche (where his buddy Nathan MacKinnon plays) and his childhood team, the Montreal Canadiens.

Crosby addressed that occasional trade chatter during the NHL/NHLPA player media tour in Las Vegas on Tuesday. He said he understood it because his clubs missed the playoffs the past three years. The Penguins captain also indicated he was flattered that he was drawing so much interest from a hockey-mad market like Montreal.

Meanwhile, Crosby's agent, Pat Brisson, didn't rule out the possibility that his client could be traded before his contract expires in 2027. However, he also suggested the speculation could disappear if the Penguins improve and reach the playoffs. Brisson ultimately believes it comes down to how Crosby is going to be and how the team is going to do.

Colorado Hockey Now's Aarif Deen cited the speculation linking Crosby to the Avalanche and Canadiens. He thinks the latter stands the better chance because of their status as an up-and-coming club.

However, the odds remain slim of Crosby coming to Montreal. The asking price could include a rising star like Lane Hutson or a top prospect like Ivan Demidov, two players the Canadiens won't part with.

NHL Rumor Roundup: Update On Canucks' Hughes, Canadiens' Next Steps After Trading PriceNHL Rumor Roundup: Update On Canucks' Hughes, Canadiens' Next Steps After Trading PriceQuinn Hughes' future with the Vancouver Canucks has been murky since team president Jim Rutherford floated the notion of the defenseman one day joining brothers Jack and Luke with the New Jersey Devils.

The player media tour also saw New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes say that he'd love to play with his brother, Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes, at some point.

Jack knew that it was “the headline question” but indicated he wasn't afraid to say it, whether it was with New Jersey or elsewhere. “They talk about it all day up in Vancouver, you know?” Hughes said. “But yeah, I'd love to play with Quinn at some point.”

Quinn Hughes said the following day that it's normal for a brother to say something like that, and playing with brothers Jack and Luke Hughes at some point would be fun, but he's excited to be in Vancouver.

Patrick Johnston of The Provinceassumed Canucks management would love to one day acquire Jack and Luke Hughes from the Devils and unite them with Quinn in Vancouver. However, he acknowledged that it would be incredibly hard to pull off, which is why there's speculation suggesting Quinn Hughes could head to New Jersey when his contract expires in 2027, if not beforehand via trade.

The Devils still have to get RFA Luke Hughes under contract before the start of this season. New Jersey Hockey Now's James Nichols wondered if the term of that deal might determine if the Hughes brothers play together in New Jersey or elsewhere.

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One improvement each Knick should make ahead of 2025-26 season

While this time of year may be purgatory for Knicks fans eagerly awaiting the new season, their team is hard at work preparing for it. The offseason offers talent a chance to build on itself, taking players, and by association their teams, to new heights.

Here’s one improvement we’d like to see from each returning rotation Knick going into the 2025-26 NBA season. There’s hopes of big leaps from Tyler Kolek, Ariel Hukporti, Kevin McCullar Jr. and Pacome Dadiet, the group of returning sophomores who saw limited action on the court last season for various reasons.

Jalen Brunson: Leveraging his off-ball game and playmaking 

Brunson’s unstoppable isolation and pick-and-roll bucket-getting is the invaluable force behind his ascension and postseason success, but even the brightest stars know the value of the easy score and simple pass. He’s no ball hog, but the offense could get bogged down in Brunson ball for stretches, and seemed to lean on that more as the year progressed and their efficiency declined.

Some of that may be coaching, and we’ll see exactly how much soon enough. Armed with a new playbook and the best weapons of his career, there’s no excuse for Brunson not to bump his respectable 7.3 assists a game to a nine or even ten with the attention he draws.

Karl-Anthony Towns: Pull-ups and deceleration hook shots

Some of these players have been plagued by the same issues (pick-and-roll IQ, passing out of drives and post-ups) for years on end and expecting a sudden change now maybe wishful thinking. In that spirit, let’s offer a new and simple twist that could help open things up instead of trying to patch some forever hole in somebody’s game. 

Towns often gets caught hard-driving into bigs without a plan beyond getting to the cup, leading to charges or wild misses and pleas for whistles. He won’t become a Tyrese Haliburton-level weak-side passer, but he is mobile enough to add stopping his drives for a jumper or short hook to his repertoire - two shots he likes and can counter defenders over-playing his physicality with. 

OG Anunoby: Face-up three

In that same vein, Anunoby’s been trying to develop his ball-handling, post-up and isolation scoring a la Kawhi Leonard. One shot he should be able to pluck from his game relatively easily is a face-up one-on-one three.

Defenders are already prone to wall up on Anunoby’s drives and he’s a much more natural shooter set than in motion, so he should play to his current skills and deficiencies by adding this look. He’s got the size and touch to hit contested looks and has flirted with this shot in the past, but adding it as a full-time weapon would open up his offense even further.

New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) and forward OG Anunoby (8) speak in the third quarter during game six of the eastern conference finals against the Indiana Pacers for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) and forward OG Anunoby (8) speak in the third quarter during game six of the eastern conference finals against the Indiana Pacers for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. / Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Josh Hart: Halfcourt ball handling

Hart is an absolute menace on the ball in transition, and when he decides to go coast-to-coast sometimes looks unstoppable. Unfortunately that control and effectiveness doesn’t carry over 1:1 in the halfcourt, where the Knicks often looked lost trying to dribble the ball if Brunson wasn’t doing it.

They addressed that by signing Jordan Clarkson, but it’ll take more than one extra guard to diversify the handling attack. It should be Hart that steps up, arguably boasting the best handle and passing combination of last year’s three starting wings, but maybe with more chances to show it under a new head coach this time around.

Mikal Bridges: Above-the-break threes

We’ll take the easy answer here. When Bridges fidgeted with his form last offseason, he unlocked some high-level mid-range mastery but cooked his three-point accuracy from everywhere but the corners. 

Fixing that will be pivotal as it would turn Bridges from a good shooter to one of the best in the league, and give him another weapon in the pick-and-roll, where the Knicks need some ammunition. 

Miles McBride: Inside finishing

The Deuce post-breakout Sixth Man of the Year campaign was afflicted by multiple injuries, turning what was supposed to be a renaissance into a rocky season for the backup guard. He ended up with a decent shooting year and solid postseason effort, but for some reason his finishing around the rim abandoned him in 2024-25.

Getting that touch back will be pivotal this year, as McBride could be pining for a starting job, or fending off competition taking his minutes in Clarkson and Kolek. 

Mitchell Robinson: Add more Gortat screens

The answer is obviously free throw shooting, but to switch things up, Robinson’s pick-and-rolls can sometimes be a little hollow in opening up action for Brunson. It can get him a switch or clear a runway, but he’s not a big lob-thrower and Robinson doesn’t do much other than catch those or position himself for offensive rebounds. 

Robinson should try to set more Gortat screens (a second screen following the first on his own man) to mix in something different. Could open up more looks for Brunson, and Robinson still puts a body on immediately to get in putback position. 

Pre-camp Sixers questions: Are Sixers about to enter a true youth movement?

Pre-camp Sixers questions: Are Sixers about to enter a true youth movement?  originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

The Sixers will travel to Abu Dhabi for preseason games vs. the Knicks on Oct. 2 and Oct. 4. They’ll begin their regular season by facing the Celtics on Oct. 22. 

Before the action commences, we’re looking at key questions for the 2025-26 Sixers. First up: Are the Sixers about to enter a true youth movement? 

By the end of their miserable 2024-25 season, the Sixers were exceedingly light on experienced players.

That was not by design. With a roster full of season-ending injuries, the Sixers were forced to rely on youngsters and fringe NBA players to finish out their schedule. 

Still, it’s not a stretch to say that the quality of the Sixers’ youth is a serious positive entering the 2025-26 campaign. Excluding two-way contracts, the team currently has seven players 24 years old or under:

  • VJ Edgecombe — 20
  • Jared McCain — 21
  • Justin Edwards — 21
  • Adem Bona — 22
  • Johni Broome — 23 
  • Tyrese Maxey — 24
  • Trendon Watford — 24 

“If everything sets up well, we’ll have a younger, more dynamic roster around a healthy Joel (Embiid), Tyrese and Paul (George),” Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey said at his end-of-season press conference.

Health permitting, we assume that Maxey, McCain, No. 3 pick Edgecombe and versatile summer signing Watford will start in the rotation mix. Edwards also appears likely to merit minutes after a very solid rookie year.

While veteran big man Andre Drummond remains a Sixer, the team clearly likes both Bona and Broome. The two shared the floor at summer league.

Everyone can see Broome’s many levels below Bona in the explosiveness department, but the No. 35 overall pick is a tough, multi-dimensional player with a big-time college résumé. Bona improved rapidly throughout his rookie season and averaged 15.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.7 blocks and 1.1 steals over the Sixers’ last 12 games. He’s been getting high-intensity game reps lately as a member of Turkey’s EuroBasket squad.

It’s difficult to imagine the Sixers making a dramatic jump from last season without Embiid and George being much healthier. However, it’s not hard to envision multiple young players taking fun leaps that meaningfully change the complexion of the team.

McCain is a contender after a bright rookie year snuffed out by a left lateral meniscus tear. 

“Everything happens for a reason,” McCain said at his exit interview. “God doesn’t make mistakes and I know the universe has put me in this position to be injured to learn something. I know I’m destined for something great.

“I read the book ‘The Obstacle Is The Way.’ … Just trying to create any advantage through all the adversity that you go through. There’s a saying … ‘Amor fati.’ Just love everything that comes, even the negative. Love everything that comes your way and you’ll find your way back in the positive. 

“So I just try to take that every single day and live with gratitude. I’m huge on that. I know I’ll be fine. I know I’ll get back to where I was, even better. Just got to be patient and be present.”

Mets at Phillies: How to watch on Sept. 11, 2025

The Mets conclude a four-game series against the Phillies in Philadelphia on Thursday at 7:15 p.m.

Here's what to know about the game and how to watch...


Mets Notes

  • Juan Soto is hitting .316/.460/.709 with 14 home runs, 32 RBI, 34 runs scored, and 14 stolen bases in 150 plate appearances over his last 32 games dating back to Aug. 6
  • The Mets are averaging 2.2 runs per game during their current five-game losing streak
  • David Peterson is coming off an uneven start, where he allowed four runs on seven hits in 5.1 innings against the Reds in Cincinnati on Sept. 5

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How can I watch Mets at Phillies online?

To watch Mets games online via FOX, you will need a subscription to a TV service provider or the FOX Sports app. This will allow fans to watch the Mets on their computer, tablet or mobile phone browser, or via the FOX Sports app.

32 Days Until Opening Night At NWA: The History Of Jersey #32

The Columbus Blue Jackets have 32 days until opening night at Nationwide Arena. Today, we look at the history of jersey #32. 

Let's take a look.

Radim Bičánek - 2001-2002 - Drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 1993.

Bičánek played 69 games for the Jackets and had 8 career points. He played for Columbus during the first two years of the franchise's existence but never played another NHL game after that.

He returned to Europe in 2004 and played there until he retired in 2016. He played at various levels of hockey in Czechia. 

Kent McDonell - 2004 - McDonell was drafted twice. The Carolina Hurricanes drafted him in the 1997 draft, and then the Detroit Red Wings drafted him in the 6th round of the 1999 draft. 

McDonell played two seasons for the franchise and totaled 32 games. He had just 3 career points. He never played another NHL game after his time in Columbus and finished his career in Europe. He played in Europe for 13 years and retired after playing in Norway, Germany, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland, and Denmark. 

Cale Hulse - 2006 - Drafted by the New Jersey in 1992. 

Hulse played 27 games in Columbus during the 2005-06 season. He had 3 assists in those 27 games. On October 8, 2005, he was traded to the CBJ from the Coyotes along with Michael Rupp and Jason Chimera for Geoff Sanderson and Tim Jackman.

After going to Calgary during that same season and playing 12 games, he would retire after that season. 

Mathieu Garon - 2010-2011 - Drafted by Montreal in 1996. 

Garon played two seasons for the Blue Jackets after signing in Columbus on July 1, 2009. He had a record of 22-23-12 with a save % of .902%, and a GAA of 2.77.

After his time in Columbus, he played two years in Tampa Bay and then finished out his career playing one season in the KHL. His career SV% is .903 and a GAA of 2.83. He also has 144 career wins. 

Cody Bass - 2012-2014 - Drafted by Ottawa in 2005.

Bass played a total of 15 games for the CBJ and had 1 career point. He signed with Columbus in 2011 and spent most of his time with the Springfield Falcons. 

He would retire after the 2019 season. Bass spent 4 seasons as a pro scout for the Colorado Avalanche from 2019 to 2023. 

Rene Bourque - 2015 - He was undrafted out of Lac La Biche, Alberta.

Bourque played 57 games for Columbus over two seasons. He totaled 7 goals and 12 points. He signed in Colorado for the 16-17 season, and then after one year, left for Sweden, where he would retire after one season. 

Adam Cracknell - 2015 - Drafted by Calgary in 2004. 

He played 17 games for the Jackets and had one career point after being claimed on waivers by Columbus on October 7, 2014. 

In 2019, he left for the KHL and then Denmark before returning to North America in 2021. In 2024, he again left for Europe, this time signing with HK Poprad in Slovakia. He is signed to play with the for the 25-26 as well. 

Jake Christiansen - 2022 - Undrafted out of West Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Christiansen played in a career-high 68 games for Columbus last season and totaled 8 points. He has played 112 games over four years. Before last season, Christiansen spent most of his time playing for the Cleveland Monsters. He's currently the Monsters franchise leader for points by a defenseman.

Christiansen will most likely be the 6th/7th defenseman during the 25-26 season and is signed through 2027. So, he will be looking to have a couple of good years and earn a nice, big contract.  

Jon Gillies - 2023 - Drafted by Calgary in 2012. 

Gillies played 3 career games for the CBJ, going 1-1. He was traded to the CBJ on March 2, 2023, in exchange for Jakub Voráček and a pick. After taking the 23-24 season off, he came back and signed with the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. He also played for the Orlando Sun Bears of the ECHL that same season. 

He is signed to play for Orlando again for the 25-26 season. 

Malcolm Subban - 2024 - Drafted by the Boston Bruins in 2012. 

On March 8, 2024, the Blues traded Subban to the CBJ and sent him to Cleveland to help with their playoff push. He did start one game for the Jackets after being recalled and lost. 

He played last season with the Grand Rapids Griffins and Belleville Sens of the AHL. He isn't retired but also hasn't signed on to play anywhere for 25-26. 

With 32 days until opening night at Nationwide Arena, the anticipation for the season is in full swing. Take a look at the schedule of events below.

Blue Jackets Participate in 2025 Prospects Challenge in Buffalo

The Blue Jackets will take part in the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo from Thursday, Sept. 11, to Sunday, Sept. 14. They’ll play three games and have one day off.

The schedule looks like this:

Thursday, Sept. 11 - 7 p.m. vs. New Jersey Devils

Friday, Sept. 12 `- No Game Scheduled

Saturday, Sept. 13 - 7 p.m. at Buffalo Sabres

Sunday, Sept. 14 - 3:30 p.m. at Pittsburgh Penguins

This will be the second year Columbus has participated in the Prospects Challenge. Before that, they played in the NHL Prospect Tournament in Traverse City. As for the roster, it won’t be released until closer to the tournament.

Let us know what you think below.

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Golden Knights Prospects Hit The Ice For 2025 Rookie Camp

Starting today, the Golden Knights’ roster of promising young players will hit the ice for the team’s 2025 Rookie Camp. 

From September 12-14 the roster will hit the road, traveling to Denver, Colorado, to take part in the 2025 Rookie Showcase at the South Suburban Family Sports Center. The tournament will feature top prospects from both the Colorado Avalanche and Utah Mammoth, alongside the Knights. 

2025 ROOKIE CAMP SCHEDULE

Thursday, September 11

Practice, 10 a.m. PT (City National Arena)

 Friday, September 12

Practice, 9 a.m. PT (City National Arena)

Saturday, September 13 

Vegas Golden Knights vs. Utah Mammoth, 3 p.m. MT (South Suburban Family Sports Center)

Sunday, September 14

Vegas Golden Knights vs. Colorado Avalanche, 1 p.m. MT (South Suburban Family Sports Center)

Fans can stream the tournament live in each market and FOX Sports Las Vegas 98.9 FM /1340 AM will broadcast the Golden Knights’ two games in Denver. 

The roster includes several familiar faces from the 2025 Golden Knights Development Camp earlier this summer. Among them are the 2025 draft selections Mateo Nobert and Alex Weiermair and the 2024 first-round pick Trevor Connelly, plus a few fresh additions. There are a total of 24 players, comprising 15 forwards, seven defensemen, and two goaltenders.

2025 ROOKIE CAMP ROSTER

FORWARD (15): Braeden Bowman, Mathieu Cataford, Trevor Connelly, Joe Fleming, Jordan Gustafson, Jackson Hallum, Ben Hemmerling, Mateo Nobert, Matyas Sapovaliv, Sloan Stanick, Andreas Straka, Trent Swick, Kai Uchacz, Tuomas Uronen, Alex Weiermair

DEFENSEMEN (7): Peteris Bulans, Artur Cholach, Viliam Kmec, Mazden Leslie, Samuel Mayer, Carter Sotheran, Bronson Ride

GOALTENDERS (2): Carl Lindbom, Cameron Whitehead

 NUMERICAL ROSTER:

8 Mathieu Cataford Forward

18 Alex Weiermair Forward

24 Trevor Connelly Forward

25 Matyas Sapovaliv Forward

30 Carl Lindbom Goaltender

37 Tuomas Uronen Forward

38 Jordan Gustafson Forward

39 Cameron Whitehead Goaltender

42 Braeden Bowman Forward

43 Mazden Leslie Defenseman

45 Mateo Nobert Forward

47 Artur Cholach Defenseman

50 Joe Fleming Forward

56 Carter Sotheran Defenseman

57 Bronson Ride Defenseman

59 Jackson Hallum Forward

63 Ben Hemmerling Forward

68 Peteris Bulans Defenseman

70 Andreas Straka Forward

76 Trent Swick Forward

77 Kai Uchacz Forward

79 Viliam Kmec Defenseman

92 Sloan Stanick Forward

96 Samuel Mayer Defenseman

Golden Knights Development Camp Spotlight: Trevor Connelly Golden Knights Development Camp Spotlight: Trevor Connelly The Vegas Golden Knights Development Camp is underway, showcasing the organization’s young up-and-comers and what they could bring to the team’s future. One of the standouts from Monday’s ice session was 2024 first-round draft pick Trevor Connelly. Golden Knights Trade Up To Select Mateo Norbert With 85th Overall PickGolden Knights Trade Up To Select Mateo Norbert With 85th Overall PickThe Vegas Golden Knights traded up for the second time on Saturday, grabbing Pittsburgh's pick in the 85th overall slot in exchange for the picks 91 and 154. Golden Knights Select Alexander Weiermair And Gustav Sjoqvist With Back-To-Back Picks At 186 And 187Golden Knights Select Alexander Weiermair And Gustav Sjoqvist With Back-To-Back Picks At 186 And 187The Vegas Golden Knights wrapped up their 2025 NHL Draft in Round 6 by selecting Alexander Weiermair and Gustav Sjoqvist. 

Canadiens Get Big Praise For Major Trade

Noah Dobson (© Eric Bolte-Imagn Images)

The Montreal Canadiens have had a busy off-season, and it is understandable when noting that they took a major step in the right direction this past campaign. Due to this, they brought in multiple new players this summer. However, there is no question that the Canadiens' top addition of the summer was defenseman Noah Dobson. 

The Canadiens acquired Dobson from the New York Islanders in exchange for forward Emil Heineman, the 16th overall pick of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft (Victor Eklund), and the 17th overall pick of the NHL Entry Draft (Kashawn Aitcheson). The Canadiens then signed Dobson to an eight-year, $76 million contract after the move, so he will be sticking around in Montreal for a long time. 

Now, the Canadiens have received some major praise for pulling off this blockbuster move. 

In a recent article for Bleacher Report, Adam Gretz ranked the Canadiens' trade for Dobson as the best move of the entire NHL off-season.

When noting that Dobson is a legitimate star when playing at his best, it is easy to understand why Gretz ranked it as the top move of this off-season. This is especially so when noting that the Canadiens were able to quickly lock up Dobson long-term after it, and that the Canadiens' right side needed a boost. 

Dobson appeared in 71 games this past season with the Islanders, where he posted 10 goals and 39 points. This was after he had a monster 2023-24 campaign, scoring 10 goals and setting career highs with 60 assists and 70 points in 79 games. With numbers like these, there is no question that he has the potential to provide serious offense from the point, and it will be huge for the Habs if he does just that from here. 

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