作者: admin

沃特福德 2025 年对奥斯曼·马玛的赌博即将获得回报，黄蜂队为夏季离开打开了大门。

Foot Mercato 报道沃特福德 如果 Maamma 能找到愿意支付 1500 万欧元的人，他就可以在今年夏天离开。

从蒙彼利埃边缘球员到沃特福德突破之星

沃特福德 2025年7月，利用蒙彼利埃降级的机会，迅速签下了奥斯曼·马玛，将这名边锋的合同期限延长至2029年。

当时这看起来是一项明智的、低风险的投资。妈妈带着原始天赋来到了这里，但在高级比赛中的上场时间有限。

虽然他在维卡拉奇路的头几个月很安静，因为他很难在早期展现自己，但随着赛季的进行，情况发生了变化。

自从10月份在智利U20世界杯上给人留下深刻印象以来，这位20岁的球员在23场锦标赛中打进了4个进球和1次助攻。

他现在是黄蜂队稳定的首发球员，并且经常在速度、技术和无所畏惧的运球上表现出色。他的一对一能力和技术素质现在使他成为沃特福德最有价值的资产之一。

沃特福德打开大门

根据Foot Mercato的消息，沃特福德现已授权Othmane Maamma在今年夏天探索转会事宜。目前他的市场价值略低于 1500 万欧元。

尽管在一月转会窗口拒绝了对这位边锋的报价。

对于一个像他这样的20岁年轻人来说，这个数字可能是一个明智的数字。欧洲各地的俱乐部都已收到关于他的可用情况的通知。多家法甲俱乐部已经联系了他的代表。一些英超俱乐部也在密切关注事态发展。

沃特福德一直知道在某个时候会有兴趣。他们没想到妈妈这么快就成长为一名引起顶级联赛关注的球员。但他是，而且他们正在准备退出。

沃特福德的下一步是什么

奥斯曼·马玛 (Othmane Maamma) 则专注于在摩洛哥参加 2026 年世界杯的阵容中赢得一席之地。

这可能会让沃特福德陷入困境。他们是提前出售还是希望妈妈能加入球队并有机会在大舞台上大放异彩。后者可以大大增加他的价值和他们的利润。

随着兴趣的上升和俱乐部的出售，无论如何，夏季转会窗口肯定会很热闹。沃特福德面临的问题是，如何最大限度地提高这名本赛季从隐藏宝石到头条新闻的球员的回报。

Brighton & Hove Albion are still awaiting clarity on Diego Gomez’s injury after he was taken off early against Tottenham, and the latest update adds both reassurance and further uncertainty in equal measure.

The midfielder’s knee problem initially looked worrying, with reports suggesting a mixture of meniscus damage, ligament involvement and a possible absence of several weeks. As we covered earlier.

This immediately raised concerns for Brighton, especially given the time in the season and Gomez’s increasing role in midfield.

However, latest comments from Dr Agustín Chaparro – who has been in direct contact with the player – paint a more nuanced picture.

The diagnosis is still unclear because the swelling distorts the picture.

Diego Gomez’s injury is not yet fully understood, mainly due to the knee being extremely swollen. This has made it difficult for the medical staff to reach any accurate conclusion.

live on paraguayan radio rock and pop 995Chaparro confirmed that the initial diagnosis pointed to a meniscus fissure, but he repeatedly stressed that swelling was complicating the evaluation.

“The diagnosis that was initially made was a crack in one of the meniscus, and with the latest tests this was practically confirmed again,” He said. “The problem is that there was a lot of swelling in the knee, and this distorted the clear view of the injury.”

He reiterated that point by underlining the need for caution:

“The knee was very swollen, and this impairs accurate readings of the injury. That’s why they are continuing to perform tests to determine the exact degree of damage.”

This repeated emphasis suggests that Brighton are still in a real “waiting game”, with scans expected to provide further clarity in the coming days.

‘Too light’ – but the season could still be over

Despite prior warnings, there are indications that the injury may not be as severe as first feared. Speaking after direct talks with Gomez, Chaparro struck a more optimistic tone.

“Thank God, he’s doing very well. Whatever the injury could have been, I think it’s very minor.” he explained.

Small but important recovery steps are already underway:

“They removed the immobilizer today, and on Monday they will perform further testing to better evaluate the injury.”

Yet, that optimism comes with an important caveat to Brighton’s immediate plans.

“At first glance, he may miss the rest of the season, but I believe he will be fine for the World Cup.”

While earlier reports had pointed to an absence of four to six weeks, the doctor’s view potentially suggests something less serious – yet still enough to end Gomez’s club season.

England’s future already in mind – but not a priority

Away from injury, the interview also revealed that Diego Gomez already has ambitions beyond Brighton – and interest from within England.

Chaparro confirmed that the player has talked about the possibility of a move, although the situation remains at an early stage.

“His dream is to keep progressing and establish himself at an important club in England,” He said. “They said there is interest from an English club, but I don’t have details. These are just talks.”

Importantly, he indicated that this is not a wide-open market situation involving multiple clubs. Instead, it appears to be more specific.

“They told me about an English club, but I don’t have much information. I don’t know which club.”

Well, we do. As covered earlierThis is Manchester City. And there has already been movement behind the scenes, with contact through player representatives.

“Yes, it has happened contact his agent. This is true. But I have not talked about it in detail yet.”

Still, Chaparro was clear about the current focus.

“It’s not a priority right now. The priority for him is the World Cup. Everything will depend on how he performs there and how Paraguay also performs.”

This puts both his recovery and any potential transfer firmly on the international timeline rather than club-driven.

what happens next

Diego Gomez is entering a decisive phase for both Brighton and his career path.

In the short term, the club is waiting for further tests to understand the exact severity of the injury. The repeated emphasis on swelling suggests that clarity is not yet possible.

Additionally, there is growing expectation that Gomez may not be able to feature again this season. This will force Brighton to adjust their midfield options during the run-in.

Looking ahead, the World Cup is already shaping up to be a pivotal moment. It is central to their recovery plan, and it could also define their next move in England.

For now, Brighton are in an uncomfortable position – convinced the injury may be “very light”, but still facing the possibility of losing the player for the rest of the campaign.

儘管安東尼·愛德華茲和唐特·迪文森佐受傷，明尼蘇達灰狼隊在第四場比賽中以112-96擊敗丹佛金塊隊，這場比賽的結束將成為兩隊之間的較量。當尼古拉·約基奇追趕《蒂姆後狼隊》球星賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯並引發爭執時，火花幫講述了導致這起事件的事件。

在比賽還剩 1.3 秒時，明尼蘇達州後衛投籃得分，約基奇向麥克丹尼爾斯發起衝鋒，比賽已經失控。約基奇認為這是不尊重的行為，因此會讓麥克丹尼爾斯知道他在籃下的問題。

尼古拉·約基奇和賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯在比賽結束前就陷入了困境😳
pic.twitter.com/WH2lHqoseV

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

獲勝後，麥克丹尼爾斯會被問及此事，他直截了當地回答了他為什麼要得分。

「時鐘仍在運轉，」麥克丹尼爾斯透過安東尼·斯萊特說道。 “所以我要去得分。”

“說實話，我不知道他說了什麼。我只是看到了一個身材高大的人。”

賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯談論尼古拉·約基奇在比賽結束時對他說的話😳

（透過 @anthonyvslater） pic.twitter.com/qWl78P8MKV

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

他還被問到約基奇在爭吵期間是否對他說了些什麼，回應了麥克丹尼爾斯當時所看到的情況。

“我不知道什麼 [Jokic] 說實話，」麥克丹尼爾斯在周六拿下 12 分和 8 個籃板後說道。「我剛剛看到了一個身材高大的人。 」

灰狼隊的賈登麥克丹尼爾斯在金塊隊的腦子裡嗎？

麥克丹尼爾斯在季後賽系列賽中因批評金塊隊而走紅，尤其是在明尼蘇達州贏得第二場比賽之後，他會批評約基奇和其他人是「糟糕的防守者」。有些人可能認為麥克丹尼爾斯在丹佛的頭腦中，儘管麥克丹尼爾斯不知道情況是否如此。

「我說了我所說的，我每天晚上都會來籃球，」麥克丹尼爾斯說。

約基奇賽後表示，他並不後悔自己的所作所為，「因為他在所有人都停止比賽後進球了。」就連金塊隊主教練大衛·阿德爾曼也對麥克丹尼爾斯的得分提出了質疑。

「我不喜歡麥克丹尼爾斯的做法，」阿德爾曼在賽後新聞發布會上說道。 「比賽結束了。比賽被認輸了。到了 2026 年，這種事情就不會再發生了。這是 80 年代發生的事情，球隊會繼續得分。但這就是他。”

「我不喜歡麥克丹尼爾斯的做法。比賽結束了……到了 2026 年，這種事情就不會再發生了，80 年代發生的事情，球隊會繼續得分，但這就是他。”

——大衛‧阿德爾曼😳 pic.twitter.com/NVpMq3wbHZ

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

無論如何，明尼蘇達隊現在在系列賽中以 3-1 領先，並有機會在周一晚上的第五場比賽中結束比賽。

The Montreal Canadiens (2-1) will host the Tampa Bay Lightning (1-2) in Game 4 on Sunday, with puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.

The Habs emerged with a 3-2 overtime win on Friday, marking the third consecutive game in which these teams required extra time to decide a winner.

On the surface, this may seem like a close battle, but once we look at the numbers a bit, it becomes clear that the Canadiens have gained a significant advantage in a very important category: high-danger scoring chances.

In fact, before Sunday’s game, the Canadiens had controlled 75% of quality scoring opportunities, the best result of any playoff team through three games. This doesn’t mean they are dominating the Lightning, but it is an important development for the Habs, as they typically struggle when it comes to controlling the best opportunities over a period, let alone an entire series.

For fun, here are the HDCF% of the various teams in the playoffs after three games. It reflects the share of high-danger scoring chances a team generates.

#GoHabsGo Leading the league by a huge margin with 75%. https://t.co/vtaVVh8y3G pic.twitter.com/1XZdiqMTul

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 25 April 2026

You could argue that Tampa Bay’s obsession with slick hockey is backfiring, as the Canadiens have not only created four times as many high-danger scoring chances, but they’ve also been bolting in the process, with defenseman Arbor Zekaj and forward Josh Anderson leading the physical charge.

Czekaj has also put up some of the best numbers among all NHL defensemen in the playoffs, forming a very solid third pairing with Jaden Struble.

If the Lightning continue to focus on extracurriculars, the Habs will have a great chance to take the series by establishing a 3-1 lead with a win on Sunday. However, if Tampa Bay begins playing regular hockey, it will make matters more complicated for the Canadiens.

Possible Lineup Changes

Neither Victor Hedman nor Charles-Edouard D’Estes are expected to be available for the Lightning, and although it’s likely we’ll see Canadiens defenseman Noah Dobson back in uniform in the relatively near future, he will not play against the Lightning on Sunday.

We’ll know more about what’s next for Noah Dobson within 48 hours. @CanadiensMTL @TVASports

– Renaud Lavoie (@RLavoieTVA) 26 April 2026

Any lineup changes will be confirmed once the teams take the ice for pregame warm-ups, as both coaches are keeping their cards pretty close to their chests at this point in the postseason.

Montreal Canadiens Projected Lineup

Cole Coffield – Nick Suzuki – Juraj Slafkowski

Alex Newhook – Oliver Kapanen – Ivan Demidov

Zachary Bolduc – Kirby Dach – Alexandre Texier

Jake Evans – Philip Danault – Josh Anderson

Mike Matheson – Alexander Carrier

Caden Guhle – Lane Hutson

Jaden Struble – Arbor Zekaj

jacob dobbs

Tampa Bay Lightning Projected Lineup

Gage Goncalves – Brayden Point – Nikita Kucherov

Brandon Hegel – Anthony Cirelli – Jake Guentzel

Zemgus Girgenson – Yanni Gourde – Nick Paul

Corey Perry – Dominic James – Scott Sabourin

JJ Moser – Darren Raddish

Ryan McDonagh – Eric Cernak

Declan Carlyle – Emil Lilliberg

Andrei Vasilevsky

How to watch Hubs Vs. bolt

Montreal Canadiens vs. Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, April 26, 2026, will be broadcast on CBC, Sportsnet and TVA Sports. A quick recap with highlights will be available on SportsNote once the final whistle blows.

Additional NHL Playoff Analysis

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

The Minnesota Timberwolves picked up a dominant and impressive win over the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. But Sunday morning, they received devastating news that their entire starting backcourt was out indefinitely.

Superstar Anthony Edwards will be out for “several weeks”.

Edwards was diagnosed with a bone spur and hyperextension of his left knee. Fortunately, imaging revealed no damage to the ligament, but still, the team will be without him for the foreseeable future.

特雷弗羅傑斯的掙扎

與此同時，上季金鶯隊賽揚得票得主特雷弗·羅傑斯再次陷入困境。羅傑斯在之前的 9.2 局中丟了 9 分自責分後，很早就被趕出了比賽，羅傑斯在僅僅 1.2 局中就丟了 3 分自責分。他失掉了四支安打，保送了兩支安打，三振了兩支。

「這讓我很沮喪，因為我現在無法真正深入比賽，」羅傑斯在賽後新聞發布會上說道。 「我必須遵守我的流程，保持紀律，並且 [do] 我需要做什麼，事情就會扭轉。 」

「這只是深度計數，他無法將兩擊打到他想要的位置，」阿爾伯納茲回憶道。 “那一局的投球數剛剛增加。”

羅傑斯在被驅逐之前在第二局投了 47 球。阿爾伯納茲表示，讓羅傑斯留在這段時間讓他感到「不舒服」。

這是一個艱難的賽季，保持四月份關鍵先發投手的健康非常重要。他希望在下一場比賽中重回正軌，預計週五在布朗克斯舉行。

金鶯隊和紅襪隊將在周日爭奪系列賽勝利，凱爾布拉迪什 (1-2, 3.96) 對陣康納利厄爾利 (1-1, 2.88)。

左投中繼投手基岡阿金 (Keegan Akin) 是金鶯隊任職時間最長的球員之一，由於左腹股溝拉傷，迄今為止已經缺席了整個賽季。在周六比賽之前，他從 15 天傷病名單中被激活，這是他 2026 賽季的首次出場。

進入第八局，球隊以7比1落後，阿金依序退場。由於第九局仍有可能遙不可及，阿爾伯納茲決定給左撇子更多的訓練。

明尼蘇達灰狼隊在周六晚上的第四場比賽中以 112-96 擊敗丹佛金塊隊，後衛唐特·迪文森佐因嚴重受傷失去了後衛。

迪文森佐在第一節剛過一分多鐘的一場非接觸式比賽中右腳跟腱撕裂。受傷發生在開場還剩10分43秒時，他嘗試投三分球，但在追籃板時邁出了“錯誤一步”，這一動作被廣泛認為與跟腱斷裂有關。他立刻倒地，抓住右小腿，示意尋求醫療協助。慢動作回放似乎顯示了肌腱折斷，這是此類損傷的常見視覺指標。隨後，他坐在輪椅上，右腿上綁著支架，被帶出賽場。

賽後接受訪問時，總教練克里斯·芬奇毫不掩飾自己的情緒。

「對唐特來說完全是毀滅性的，」芬奇說。 「他打得很好。他度過了一個很棒的賽季；他是我們所做的許多事情的核心和靈魂。你可以看到事情發生時他眼中的表情，你就知道了。我們會愛他，我們會支持他。”

“說實話，我不知道他說了什麼。我只是看到了一個身材高大的人。”

賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯談論尼古拉·約基奇在比賽結束時對他說的話😳

（透過 @anthonyvslater） pic.twitter.com/qWl78P8MKV

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

考慮到迪文森佐的穩定性和表現，他的缺席是一個巨大的打擊。他打滿了全部82場例行賽，場均12.2分、4.1個籃板和3.8次助攻。系列賽前三場比賽，他將自己的表現提升到場均14.3分、5.0個籃板和5.0次助攻，三分球命中率達50%，整體命中率達51.6%。

灰狼隊在比賽中還因左膝問題失去了安東尼·愛德華茲，導致他們失去了兩名首發球員。儘管如此，明尼蘇達隊還是在半場落後的情況下奮起反擊，並在最後時刻以 21-6 的高潮反​​超比分。阿約·多孫木 (Ayo Dosunmu) 打出了歷史性的表現，17 投 13 中得到職業生涯最高的 43 分。

灰狼隊目前在系列賽中以 3-1 領先，下週一將在丹佛迎戰金塊隊的第五場比賽。

2024 年，佩里晉升為 Low-A，儘管他所面對的擊球手的保送率為 18.8%，但他還是先發了 14 場比賽，打了 46 局，自責分率為 2.93。然而，他的賽季被縮短了，因為他在 8 月在 UCL 受傷，需要湯米約翰進行手術，在開始之前就結束了他的整個 2025 賽季。

快進到 2026 年，經過幾個月的艱苦康復，佩里自 24 年 8 月以來首次重返投手丘。他的前三場比賽取得了出色的成績，值得樂觀。然而，佩里賽季初的真正動力來自於他的全面改進。速度提高了，形狀更好了，結果也反映了這一點。

讓我們深入了解藍鳥隊系統中可能最大的臥舖臂。

東西的區別

我們可以看到佩里在 2024 年 UCL 手術前的最後一次展示，以及他今年 4 月回歸後的前三場比賽中的展示。

立即跳出來的第一件事是佩里的平均快球速度比之前提高了 2 英里/小時，而沒有犧牲任何形狀。平均時速 94 英里/小時，速度為 18.7」 IVB 和 9.4」 HB 的 -4.2 垂直接近角落帶來了他的快球精英切球動作。擊球手有 40% 的時間在擊球，這對快球來說確實是異常情況，而當他們確實接觸時，它屬於軟球。

考慮到額外的 -5.5，曲線球的下落比之前更加陡峭」 它正在生成 IVB。反過來，它可以更有效地從他的高騎快球中挖出，因為它們來自同一個槽，從手中看起來是一樣的，但快球保持在區域內，而曲線球從桌子上掉下來。 66.7% 的惡魔般的嗅覺率反映了它的音調有多好。

從速度的角度來看，沉降片是四接縫沉降片的複製品。平均時速從 92 英里每小時提高到 94 英里每小時。形狀基本上保持不變，但增加的速度彌補了世界上的所有差異，特別是當你有六個不同的音高需要準備時。

另一個形狀變化最大的投球是佩里的變速投球。平均速度上升 1.5 MPH，同時下降 5.4 MPH」 IVB 的數量較 2024 年的情況有所不同。 極為 佩里的變速球的一小部分樣本（確切地說是七個球）的錯誤率為 66.7%，但沒有一個被投入使用。隨著賽季的進行，我希望看到佩里更多地利用這種球場，特別是在對陣左手擊球手時。

After several months of missing the playoffs, the Senators were swept by the Hurricanes, ending their playoff run after just one week. This is their first since 2008, although back then it was an aging team that was slowly collapsing and were soundly defeated by the Penguins. This time, the Sens showed great courage, but inevitably lost to a superior team. Let’s get into the details to find out what exactly went wrong.

Read more: Shane Pinto’s Selke case

credit to the storm

Yes, I will point out the shortcomings of the senators. It goes without saying what a great game the Hurricanes played. I mentioned it again before and during the series: they are a well-oiled machine. His defensive play was impeccable, allowing only five goals in four games. They make it just as difficult to make shots as they do to break the puck out of the defensive zone. Their depth was excellent, with Logan Stankoven and Taylor Hall leading the way offensively. Hall also helped the Canes by hitting Sanderson hard, knocking him out of the series (he only got a two-minute penalty for it, not that I’m still bitter).

The question mark for the Hurricanes heading into the playoffs was their goaltending. Frederick Anderson, with a little help from his post, was great. He stopped 105 out of 110 shots he faced. The best part of the Hurricane series? His penalty kill. His offensive strategy was largely successful, frustrating the Senators’ skill players throughout the series, as the Canes killed 20 of the 21 Senators’ power plays.

Another guy I’d like to mention: Jalen Chatfield. In the series preview, I brought up 16 storms. Chatfield was not one of them. In my eyes, he may be the most underrated player in the NHL. He is rarely discussed, yet in each game he gives the Canes 20-plus minutes of effort, energy and intelligent hockey. He averaged over 23 minutes per game in the series, including 4:38 shorthanded per game. One last thing – Jakob Slavin is a monster defensively. Now, onto the sensors.

Senators’ strengths: Ullmark and defensive play

Let’s start with the good stuff. Linus Ullmark was fantastic, stopping 124 of 133 shots. He finished the series with a .933 SV%. His save percentages in four games were as follows:

He made many spectacular saves during the series. Given how well Ullmark played, a sweep actually seems impossible. For a guy who endured a tough season that included some time off due to personal reasons, at least Ullmark is finishing his year playing his best hockey as a Senator.

As far as the defensive side of the ice was concerned, the Senators stood strong. They conceded only 11 goals in approximately 14 periods, two of which were empty netters. Their penalty kill surrendered two goals in 15 Hurricanes power plays for an 86.7% success rate. They did all this without Zub for most of the series, without Sanderson for a game and a half, and without Kleven for the first two games. Let’s not forget that Nick Jensen, a regular for most of the season, was out for the playoffs as well.

Playing 10 defensemen in a four-game series is a recipe for disaster, but the Sens played hard on their side of the ice. The key to their success is how much the forwards care about the defensive side of the game. For the Hurricanes, it was probably like playing a version of themselves. Of course a shorter version, but at least the censorship showed a willingness to defend to the end.

senators are waiting for trouble

The Senators finished the regular season in eighth place, averaging 3.35 goals per game. He scored five goals in less than 14 periods of hockey in this series. Here’s how bad things went from an offensive standpoint compared to the season before:

• Season: 11.6 shooting %, 24% power play
• playoffs: 4.5 Shooting %, 4.8% Power Play

The Senators’ total scores in the four games were: 22, 39, 21, 27.

Keep in mind, the 39 shot game went into double overtime. So there were two issues in the game – the Senators weren’t making enough shots, and on the shots they did make, their finishing was extremely poor. There are plenty of examples of this – Batherson and Tkachuk should both have had the game tied at one each. Stützle was supposed to open the scoring in the second game. Both he and Amadio should have won the second game in overtime. Tkachuk should have tied the third game. The list goes on and on.

In the end, only two Senators scored in the series—Batherson had three and Cozens two. Considering their poor performance in last year’s first round, at least they were able to add some offense this year, in a year where no one was able to do so.

Struggle of Stützle and Tkachuk

Here were the final drafts for the Senators’ two-star forward:

• Stützle: 4 games, 0 goals, 1 point, -4, 25:31 time on ice/game
• tkachuk: 4 games, 0 goals, 0 points, -4, 21:31 time on ice/game

I would say you can’t win if your star players don’t perform, but Jarvis, Svechnikov and Ehlers were held goalless as the Hurricanes secured the win. I think it would be more meaningful to say this: You can’t win without the performance of your star players, unless the depth players step up in a big way.

Stankoven and Hall carried the bulk of the offense for the Hurricanes. Martinook was ahead in the second game and Blake was ahead in the third game. The whole team was fantastic defensively. For the senators, apart from Batherson, no one stood up aggressively. As the highest-paid forwards and the two men on the ice for all key offensive situations, the blame falls primarily on Tkachuk and Stützle.

Both had some great chances, but getting close proved futile. They were both equally bad in the Senators’ miserable power game, and they were both weak on the defensive side of the ice. Here’s my unsolicited advice for both guys. As for Tkachuk, he needs to play with a combination of passion and anger. He is too demonstrative sometimes. He is also very passive sometimes. A player with his skill should never play a quiet game. The way he played in game four, he is the Tkachuk this team needs moving forward.

As far as Stuetzle goes, I truly believe the Senators need to find a highly skilled linemate to bring out the best version of him. He sometimes tries to do it all himself, and is clearly frustrated when it doesn’t work. From a stylistic standpoint, he wants to play like McDavid and MacKinnon. For this, he needs to become stronger, making it difficult for him to get past the puck.

final thoughts

When a team is drained, there is no longer a “what could have been” feeling about things. It’s clear the Senators need to be a better hockey team. This will be a big offseason for Steve Staios and company. Pretty well the entire core is signed until at least next year. They will have cap space and a great chance to progress to true contender status with a strong offseason.

I’ll end with this – as much as it hurts to move good players out, the Staos tried to put together the same group this season and in the end, the Senators are in the same spot they were a year ago. Don’t forget that the Florida Panthers traded away Jonathan Huberdeau, who was a 115-point scorer at the time and one of their franchise’s all-time greats, in order to take their team to the next level. This resulted in two Stanley Cups. Steve Staios, it’s time to think big.

Danny was born and raised in Ottawa and still lives in that city. He has followed… more about Danny McCloskey

亞特蘭大——對於一些人來說，亞特蘭大老鷹隊2-1領先紐約尼克隊已經超出了他們的預期。在第三場比賽中又一場令人緊張的勝利之後，如果老鷹隊能以 3-1 領先，他們就有機會讓尼克斯隊的情況變得更糟。不幸的是，客場球隊以 114-98 獲勝，系列賽 2-2 打平，返回麥迪遜廣場花園。

老鷹隊從一開始就沒有做到這一點，整場比賽都在流血。投籃沒有落下，他們沒有照顧好球，這兩件事讓尼克斯隊在另一端輕鬆得分。

傑倫·約翰遜在攻防兩端的掙扎仍在繼續，戴森·丹尼爾斯在一場嚴重缺乏進攻的比賽中沒有提供太多進攻，而在兩場穩定的比賽之後，喬納森·庫明加在這場比賽中回到了現實。

「他們比我們打得更好，」CJ麥科勒姆賽後說道。 「他們打得更努力，身體素質更強。他們擊敗了我們，讓我們失去了球權。上半場我們有12次失誤；我上半場有2到3次失誤。不能這樣。這種勢頭搖擺的比賽讓他們感到舒服。”

「比賽一開始，他們的身體素質就讓我們感到困擾，」奎因·斯奈德說。 「我們沒有做我們需要做的事情來成功對抗他們。我們把球翻了；當你翻球時沒有過渡。我們沒有按照我們需要的方式崩潰。他們想出了50/50的球。我們必須做得更好。從這個角度來看，我們沒有做我們需要獲勝的事情。」

儘管困難重重，更衣室裡仍然充滿了樂觀情緒。

「我們希望以 3-1 的比分領先，但如果你在系列賽開始前告訴我們，我們會以 2-2 的比分回到花園……生活並沒有那麼糟糕，」麥科勒姆說。

「我們沒想到會橫掃對手，」尼克爾·亞歷山大-沃克說。 “我們沒想到會輕鬆擊敗他們……我想很多人也沒有想到我們能做到這一點。對我們來說，這只是建設性的反饋。我們可以做得更好；我們哪裡做得不好？這就是我們自全明星賽以來一直在應對逆境的方式。”

與此同時，老鷹隊知道他們需要打得更好，並且他們在第五場比賽中還有另一個機會這樣做。

「理解這是一個系列，你不能太高或太低，」史奈德說。 「我們2-1領先不應該影響我們今晚的表現。無論系列賽的比分如何，無論特定比賽的比分如何，我們都必須達到一定的水平。專注於這些事情才是我們需要做的。”

經過四場比賽，老鷹隊可能會說他們還沒有打出最好的比賽。儘管這可能是真的，但在某些時候，如果他們想贏得系列賽，他們必須拿出最好的表現。

這不是生死存亡的問題，但進入第五場比賽時必須要有緊迫感。

擊球手們在對抗巴茲時也以自 2021 年首次參加大聯盟比賽以來的最高速度進行空中拉球，他的空中拉球率已攀升至近 19%。考慮到拉飛球通常會產生最好的結果，這是相當令人震驚的。

當金鶯隊為了讓巴茲穿上球衣而放棄如此大的包裹時，他們當然對他抱有更多的期望。雖然天賦總是很明顯，並且在他們擁有的其他手臂中脫穎而出，但對於右撇子來說，這個開始沒有任何糖衣。

再說一次，時間還早，還有足夠的時間讓事情發生。但是，仍然應該指出的是，這至少是令人震驚的。

光芒回歸的強勁開局

另一方面，光芒隊對他們的這筆交易已經到了這個地步感到非常高興。他們引進的多名球員都取得了令人難以置信的火爆開局，而且隨著光芒隊的球員發展與其他球隊一樣出色，這變得更加令人鼓舞。

從這筆交易中排名最高的潛在客戶之一開始，捕手 卡登·博丁 在他的光芒生涯早期就已經取得了不錯的成績。在去年選秀中成為第二順位接球手後，他目前以 189 支 wRC+ 和三支全壘打的成績削減了 0.408/.457/.662。

特別是考慮到博丁最初被視為手套優先的接球手，他的進攻發展是巨大的。他看起來像是一名特殊的球員，也是光芒隊過去幾個賽季一直在尋找的新秀類型。

在土墩上，右 麥可·福雷特 在他的前三場比賽中表現出了有希望的數據。在 15 局投球中，福雷特的投球自責分率僅為 1.80，WHIP 為 1.13，同時獲得 14 次三振。儘管早期步行有點令人擔憂，但這對這位 22 歲的年輕人來說是一個令人印象深刻的開始。

除了卡登·博丁之外，光芒隊還增加了一些外野手的進攻幫助 奧斯汀·奧文。他可能是球隊引進的所有球員中開局最慢的，但他仍然表現出了一些希望。他在短短 17 場比賽中就以全壘打和驚人的 18 次盜壘大幅削減了 0.250/.311/.338。

After digesting Sunny Mehta’s comments as the new general manager of the New Jersey Devils, I understand that he hinted at the fate of the head coach.

His appearance at the convention was enough evidence for me to believe that Sheldon Keefe may return. But he said a lot more about Keefe that leads me to believe he’ll be behind the bench again next season.

More information on this in the Devil’s Rink Report link below.

Also below, a potential Devils trade partner, a big breakout in Ottawa, and much more.

Devil’s Trade Rumors and News

New Jersey Hockey Now: Sunny Mehta may already have a devil’s trade partner, as Manher, a fellow general, explained that no one on his team is untouchable.

📺 devil’s rink report: While Mehta pointed out that everything is still under evaluation, I discussed the latest Devils Rink report that it certainly seems like they hinted that Sheldon Keefe may remain as head coach.

Full episode here 👇🏼

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NHL Trade Talk, News and National Hockey Now

Forever Blueshirts: That’s why the new leadership of Mika Zibanejad is important for the New York Rangers moving forward.

Athletic ($): Are the Anaheim Ducks witnessing the birth of a franchise defenseman? Jackson Lacombe is eye-opening in the first round against the Edmonton Oilers.

Pittsburgh hockey now: Put brooms away in Pennsylvania. Here’s how the changes gave the Pittsburgh Penguins new life in the Game 4 win that saved them from elimination.

Detroit hockey now: In the midst of missing the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, Steve Yzerman addressed the unwanted milestone.

Montreal hockey now: Here are the top three reasons why the Montreal Canadiens have the edge over the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first-round series.

Carolina hockey now: Tyler Kleven delivered a powerful blow to Carolina Hurricanes’ Alexander Nikishin on Saturday as the Carolina Hurricanes swept the Ottawa Senators. Rod Brind’Amour addresses the hit and provides an update after the game.

Here’s the hit:

James is the fully certified New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on SportsNote and … More about James Nicholls

週六，紐約尼克隊以 114-98 擊敗亞特蘭大老鷹隊，給人一種緊迫感。紐約隊的潰敗中，卡爾安東尼唐斯拿下 20 分。但這場 NBA 季後賽的歡鬧也伴隨著 Mike Brown 需要釋放 KAT。

尼克斯隊主教練曾考慮過在第四場比賽之前對陣容進行調整。相反，他發現了為唐斯傳球的全新方法，從而獲得了他有史以來的第一個季後賽三雙。

憑藉這次助攻，卡爾-安東尼·唐斯創下了職業生涯首個季後賽三雙🔥

20 分 | 10個籃板| 10次助攻pic.twitter.com/CGIvd4XFOq

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

尼克斯甚至信任 KAT 的遠射，這是他所擁有的罕見技能。

卡爾-安東尼唐斯讓它從深處飛翔🎯

比賽還剩第四節時，他已經拿下 19 分。pic.twitter.com/gMUMypQA8e

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

布朗本人承認，他正在嘗試讓唐斯更多地參與其中，並在事後表示：“只是想找到不同的方法讓 KAT 接球。”

“只是想找到不同的方法讓 KAT 接球”

麥克布朗談到尼克隊今晚如何在進攻中使用卡爾安東尼唐斯： pic.twitter.com/nkz3cOWrV6

— 尼克隊影片 (@sny_knicks) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

紐約客隊第一年的主教練讓唐斯的隊友們進行更多的削減，以釋放他的空間。唐斯本人很喜歡這種方法。

「機會出現了，我的隊友今天實現了這一點。他們取得了很大的進步，」他賽後告訴記者。

唐斯特別喜歡他的尼克斯隊在1-2落後的情況下如何應對這個系列賽。

「我認為我們做得很好，我們表現得更加堅韌，更加絕望，我認為這是正確的詞，」唐斯說。 “我們了解這場遊戲的重要性。在敵方領土上也是如此。”

他完全清楚當劇集回到麥迪遜廣場花園時，接下來會發生什麼。

唐斯說：“如果我們希望戰勝一支充滿飢餓感、運動能力強、年輕且渴望時機的球隊，那麼我們每場比賽都需要付出這樣的努力。” “我們必須超越當下。”

唐斯在防守端還貢獻了兩次抄截。 OG Anunoby 領先 NYK 22 分。傑倫·布倫森拿下19分，邁爾斯·麥克布萊德拿下11分，喬許·哈特拿下10分。

The New York Sirens could not make a dent on the scoreboard in their regular season finale on Saturday afternoon, losing 4–0 to the Boston Fleet at the Tsongas Center.

Erin Frankel set a new PWHL record with her eighth shutout of the season and Boston scored four times in the third period to earn its 16th regulation win.

New York held a 24–8 lead in shots for the first 40 minutes, but failed to overcome Frankel, who made 30 saves in 60:00. Boston swept the ice in the third, outscoring the siren 16–6.

“I think today’s game was a really good sign for our season,” Sirens coach Greg Fargo admitted after the game. “We’re playing well, we’ve got a second team, and we can’t find a way to get that first or second team. So you get a team that’s as good as Boston, and they’re going to pay you.”

Sirens finished the season in seventh place with 36 points (9-3-3-15); Their 15 regulation losses ranked second in the league behind the Seattle Torrents (16). The Fleet improved to 62 points (16-5-5-4), passing the Montreal Victoire for first place, although Montreal earned the No. 1 seed via tiebreaker.

With no playoff or draft implications on Saturday, Sirens coach Greg Fargo turned to rookie goalie Kelly Shanahan for her third start this season, and New York got things under control early. Boston managed only one shot in the first period, which was completely neutralized by an aggressive Siren forecheck.

But Fleet made a breakthrough in the third, leading Shanahan by three points and reaching a scoreless tie. Former Sirens forward Jessie Aldridge deflected a long shot from captain Megan Keller just 2:53 into the frame to give Boston a 1–0 lead. Ella Huber increased the lead to 2-0 at 7:28, collecting the puck in the slot and speeding past Shanahan on the glove side. With the Fleet on the power play, rookie defender Haley Winn picked up the corner on a long shot from the point, blasting in a one-time feed from Keller to make it 3-0 at 13:43.

Fargo pulled Shanahan to take a 6-on-4 lead after a boarding penalty on Fleet defender Noemi Neubauerova at 14:29 of the third, but Jill Saulnier won a puck battle in Boston’s zone and scored an empty-netter at 14:56.

Keller, Eldridge and Liz Schepers each scored two points; Keller led all PWHL defensemen with 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists) in 2025–26.

“I thought we did a good job of getting first touches on pucks on both ends of the rink in the first 40 minutes of the game, and that led to a lot of offensive zone time. We had few chances offensively, and were really limited on their timing and the quality of their looks,” Fargo said. “I have to give credit to Boston, they definitely had a little something up their sleeves in the third period and came at us. And credit to them for doing that, and the way they finished the game.”

The Fleet won their 11th consecutive game against the Sirens, the longest winning streak between two teams in PWHL history. New York’s last win against Boston came on March 25, 2024, during the league’s inaugural season.

Highlights after Sirens’ season ends with shutout loss to Fleet

The siren’s crime subsides in the final stages

Despite strong shot totals, New York’s offense slowed toward the end of the 2025–26 season.

After losing star rookie Kristina Kaltunkova to a season-ending lower-body injury, Ciaran averaged 1.6 goals in her final nine games, scoring one or fewer goals in six of those contests. Saturday marked New York’s fifth shutout loss of the season after being shut out just once in 30 games last season.

Saturday followed a familiar script. The Sirens dictated the game in the first 40 minutes, but had nothing to show. The power play once again faltered and four chances went waste.

New York’s offense relied heavily on star forward Sarah Fillear and rookie center Casey O’Brien in the final month. Both performed well, but the Sirens’ thin attack proved difficult to sustain, especially against red-hot goaltenders like Regan Kirk, Gwyneth Phillips and Frankel.

The Sirens have outscored opponents in six of their last nine games, and Fargo often praised the offensive process, but this is a results-based business at the end of the day — and the results weren’t there when it mattered most.

Fargo ‘proud of growth’ from youth group

In training camp in November, the Sirens set their sights on the first postseason berth in franchise history. For the third consecutive season, that goal eluded them.

Fargo said after the game, “It’s definitely sad to miss the playoffs. We want to be there. That’s where we set our goals at the beginning of the year.” “But at the same time, you have to appreciate the growth of this group.”

New York was the youngest team ever in the PWHL this season. When the Sirens acquired Minnesota Frost forward Denisa Krisova in a trade in late March, the 31-year-old immediately became the team’s oldest player – and the only one over the age of 30.

The young man quickly became one of their greatest assets. Despite major changes in the offseason, a new-look Sirens team started 7–0–0–3. That pace eventually slowed, but the New York rookie continued to impress.

The first-round combination of Kaltunkova (No. 1 overall) and O’Brien (No. 3 overall) headlined a deep rookie class that paced the PWHL with 28 goals and 62 points. Kaltunkova scored 11 goals in 21 games before being placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), and O’Brien led all rookies with 22 points (seven goals, 15 assists).

Fourth-round pick Maddie Wheeler (No. 28 overall) made an immediate impact on New York’s top six with her physical 200-yard game, finishing fifth in team scoring with 10 points (three goals, seven assists). Second-round pick Anne Cherkovsky (No. 9 overall) wasn’t far behind with nine points (two goals, seven assists). Undrafted reserve defender Nicole Valario worked her way into a steady role in the Sirens’ defensive core, entering the third pairing following the departure of veteran blue-liner Jincy Rouse.

Fargo said, “We’ve got a young team with a young core. And I think we were able to take some positive steps this year.” “There are parts of our game that we really like. Obviously, we have to find ways to score.”

Outside of the rookies, second-year defender Maja Nylen Persson scored a career-high 11 points (two goals, nine assists) in 2025–26, and Petey Lewis reached double-digit scoring (10 points) for the first time in his three-year PWHL career.

“I’m really proud of the growth of this group, this organization,” Fargo said. “I think we’ve taken a lot of steps forward.”

Sirens coach addresses ‘untenable’ extension rumors

Unfortunately for New York, keeping that young core together could be quite a challenge.

The PWHL has not released specific details yet, but all signs point to another batch of expansion teams joining the league this offseason. If last offseason was any indication, another roster overhaul may be in store for the Sirens.

“It’s upsetting,” Fargo said of the uncertain offseason. “We feel really good about the group we have in the locker room. It’s been a challenge to build a team from day one.”

Sirens coach Greg Fargo spoke on the looming threat of another expansion following New York’s regular season finale:

“It’s upsetting because we feel really good about the group we have in the locker room. Building a team from day one has been a challenge. And so I think if… pic.twitter.com/HEC5Qd2R04

– Lou Orlando (@SweetLouuuu) 25 April 2026

Under last offseason’s rules, teams were allowed to protect up to three players they had rights to. Once two players were taken to extensions, teams could add a fourth player to their protected list. It’s unclear whether this offseason will follow the same format, but anything remotely like that would result in a big loss for New York.

“I think if there’s a way to keep a good number of players and staff together in that room, we feel really good about what we’re building. It’s just a matter of whether we can keep it together for a long time,” Fargo continued. “We know there will likely be some bumps in the road, but we will do our best to try and adapt and put together the best group we can possibly have come next season.”

On top of the extension, the Sirens have 11 players set to become unrestricted free agents, including Kristin O’Neal, Taylor Girard and midseason additions Claire DeGeorge and Chrisova. General manager Pascal Daoust has his work cut out for him.

Lou Orlando is an alumnus of Fordham University, where he covered the New York Rangers for three seasons… More about Lou Orlando

The New York Knicks made a tremendous comeback on Saturday night. They defeated the Atlanta Hawks 114–98 to tie the first-round playoff series 2–2.

After losing two games in a row, New York was focused, physical and determined when it came out of the locker room. Here are three things we discovered after Game 4.

The Knicks always need a wakeup call

This team seems to play its best basketball when its back is against the wall. After losses in Games 2 and 3, including a blowout 109–108 loss where they blew a late lead, the Knicks came to Atlanta with something to prove. And he did exactly that.

With a jump ball at tip-off, New York set the tone. They led in every quarter, ran sharp offensive sets and defended with alacrity. Karl-Anthony Towns finished with a postseason triple-double (20 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists), and OG Anunoby exploded for 22 points.

Knicks’ true character – tough, deep and disciplined – was revealed in the moment he felt the pressure. This is quite reassuring, but at the same time, it is also a little worrying as we head towards a winner-takes-all series.

Mickle Bridge requires less than 20 minutes

We all know Mikal Bridges just isn’t producing when it comes to the biggest moments of the playoffs. After a scoreless performance with a shocking minus-26, the Knicks reduced their time on the floor in Game 4.

Although he scored a few times in the first half, his defensive mistakes and offensive struggles put him at risk in crunch time.

Mike Brown needs to accept the truth. In one trade, Bridges was the reason the Knicks had to give up five first-round picks; However, in the playoffs, performance matters, not loyalty.

Limiting their playing time to under 20 minutes allows the Knicks to keep their most effective and reliable players on the field in the final minutes, while also getting some benefits from their length and defense in controlled doses.​

Kat needs to be the main guy, not Jalen Brunson

Jalen Brunson is the heart of this team, but this game tells a clear story: They turned the ball over six times. Meanwhile, Kat was an absolute monster. He scored, counter-attacked and planned attacks all night long.

When the Knicks run the post and play through Towns in the mid-range, they look like a completely different team. The Knicks are at their best when the Cats are dominating and Game 4 proved that again.

Jayesh Pagar is currently pursuing Sports Journalism from London School of Journalism and has four years of experience… More about Jayesh Pagar

週六晚上在州立農場球館舉行的第四場比賽中，亞特蘭大老鷹隊以 114-98 被紐約尼克隊擊敗。這場失利讓季後賽首輪系列賽戰成2-2平，亞特蘭大隊總教練奎因·史奈德將紐約隊的防守強度視為決定性因素。

「我們陷入了停滯，」史奈德說。 「你必須讚揚他們，他們在防守端的侵略性……一支追趕它的球隊。這並不是說我們沒有競爭，而是我們沒有足夠的競爭來贏得這場比賽。”

尼克斯很早就控制了局面，並始終保持這種局面。卡爾安東尼唐斯在季後賽拿下三雙，得到20分、10個籃板和10次助攻，成為球隊季後賽史上第四位完成這項壯舉的球員。 OG阿奴諾比拿下全隊最高的22分和10個籃板，而賈倫布倫森貢獻19分，其中包括3個三分球。紐約隊在三分線外命中 14 次投籃，半場領先兩位數，第四節將領先擴大到 24 分。

老鷹隊因冷漠的投籃和缺乏冷靜的控球而失敗。亞特蘭大隊第一節三分球12投3中，上半場出現12次失誤和11次助攻。老鷹隊的CJ麥科勒姆拿下17分，這是他在系列賽中的最低得分，而傑倫約翰遜則憑藉低效的投籃拿下14分，其中一度10投3中。聯盟進步最快球員尼克爾亞歷山大沃克貢獻 15 分，戴森丹尼爾斯搶下全隊最高的 9 個籃板。

尼克隊的身體對抗很早就顯現出來，瞄準錯位並攻擊油漆區，同時也迫使亞特蘭大隊進行有爭議的跳投。紐約隊從失誤中受益，並保持了空間和球的移動，阻止了老鷹隊的持續逆轉。即使亞特蘭大隊在第三節初期將差距縮小到8分，尼克斯隊仍以爆發性得分回應，重新建立了兩位數的領先優勢，並在第四節開始時將比分擴大到86-65。

結果是老鷹隊在系列賽中遭遇最一面倒的失利。由於系列賽現已縮減為三局兩勝，第五場比賽定於週二在麥迪遜廣場花園舉行，紐約隊在那裡擁有主場優勢。

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, stories and content you may have missed on Saturday.

montreal canadiens news

Tampa Bay’s strategy of rushing players, harassing goaltenders and punching opponents in every scrimmage is backfiring spectacularly. In fact, in addition to the series lead, the Canadiens have actually had more hits than their opponents through three games. [Tampa Bay’s Strategy Is Backfiring In Series Versus Canadiens]

The discrepancy in high-danger shots in the series is hard to ignore. In fact, after three games, the Canadiens have accounted for 75% of high-danger scoring opportunities at 5v5, the highest mark of all teams in the NHL playoffs.

For fun, here are the HDCF% of the various teams in the playoffs after three games. It reflects the share of high-danger scoring chances a team generates.

#GoHabsGo Leading the league by a huge margin with 75%. https://t.co/vtaVVh8y3G pic.twitter.com/1XZdiqMTul

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 25 April 2026

Apart from the physical battle, which the Habs are winning, there are several other reasons why the Canadiens have managed to take the lead in the series, including the excellent play of the third pair of Arbor Czekaj and Jayden Struble. [Top 3 Reasons The Canadiens Have A Series Lead]

Believe it or not, Shekaz leads the entire NHL in expected goal share with an impressive 83.8%. [NST]

Kirby Dach discusses support from head coach Martin Saint-Louis as he overcomes an endless list of injuries in recent seasons.

Kirby Dach on receiving a vote of confidence from Habs coach Marty St. Louis yesterday:

“I think as a competitor, you want a chance to respond. You want to be able to go out there and prove your worth. This game is tough, there are a lot of mistakes, it’s not… pic.twitter.com/uYFCvEuOqz

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 25 April 2026

This is clearly trolling, but comparatively speaking, it is quality trolling. Additionally, given that Brady Tkachuk appears to be one of the worst leaders in the league, perhaps it is time to examine his position in the Senators organization. Or maybe he is a great leader who never seems to have luck when it comes to leadership. Difficult to say.

Arbor Zekaj has more points than Brady Tkachuk in the playoffs. pic.twitter.com/t1j569ZKzS

– Alex (@ivandemigoal) 25 April 2026

The clip embedded below has nothing to do with the Habs, but when a dirtbag like Ridley Gregg starts punching a player who’s being pinned down, it’s hard not to roll your eyes. That is pure cowardice.

Will this despicable act by Ridley Gregg be sanctioned by the NHL?🤔 pic.twitter.com/drSzZb6KrY

– TVA Sports (@TVASports) 25 April 2026

Sportsknot Network

Sunny Mehta already has the option to pick up the phone and negotiate a potential New Jersey Devils trade and improve his top six. After failing to make the playoffs for the 10th consecutive season, the Detroit Red Wings are now the longest-serving team to miss the postseason after the Buffalo Sabers punched their ticket this spring. [New Jersey Devils]

Maybe it’s the rivalry factor. The Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers have a history of controversial meetings, and this includes their ongoing first-round games. Or maybe it’s a chance to see the Penguins’ big three players — Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang — back in the playoffs after a three-year absence. Perhaps it’s the continuation of interest in hockey in the United States after the Winter Olympics and the American gold medal. [Pittsburgh Penguins]

Just a week ago, the Senators were filled with hope as they entered the first round of their series against the Hurricanes. Flash forward to Saturday, and the Senators are the first team in the NHL to be eliminated, losing their first-round series 4-0. [Ottawa Senators]

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

紐約尼克隊扳平了系列賽。然而，第四場比賽中最響亮的時刻之一與記分牌無關。在紐約隊以 114-98 擊敗亞特蘭大老鷹隊的比賽中，攝影機捕捉到了賈倫布倫森與他的父親、助理教練里克布倫森的激烈交鋒。這段影片很快就引發了人們對尼克隊在季後賽高壓環境下場邊緊張局勢的猜測。

然而，年輕的布倫森在賽後關閉了這一點。

「沒有爭論。那是兩個競爭對手，」他說。

布倫森將這一刻重新定義為衝突，而不是定義他籃球成長的標準的反映。事實上，這筆交易是在紐約牢牢控制的情況下發生的。他們在上半場佔據主導地位，取得了兩位數的領先優勢。

傑倫·布倫森和里克·布倫森交換了意見。

（小時/噸 @尼克國家隊）

pic.twitter.com/UXqcVPNEuQ

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

對於拿下 19 分和 3 次助攻的布倫森來說，他父親的強度是燃料。傳達的訊息很簡單：不要放鬆，尤其是在尼克斯第二場和第三場比賽的比賽後期崩潰之後。

這種反應幫助我們在一個劇烈波動的系列賽中實現了急需的反彈表現。在客場戰勝亞特蘭大後，尼克斯隊現在陷入了 2-2 的僵局。在麥迪遜廣場花園拿下第一場比賽後，紐約隊遭遇了兩場令人心碎的比賽，其中包括在第三場比賽中以 109-108 失利，這暴露了他們在比賽後期的執行力。

然而，第四場比賽卻是一個不同的故事。卡爾安東尼唐斯打出了歷史性的三雙，而OG-阿奴諾比和布倫森則提供了穩定的得分和防守壓力。尼克上半場只讓亞特蘭大隊得到44分。他們用身體和紀律扭轉了劇本。

隨著系列賽轉移到紐約進行第五場比賽，父子之間的病毒時刻現在看起來更像是一支球隊在正確的時間重新發現優勢的快照。

週六晚上，明尼蘇達灰狼隊在目標中心球場舉行的第四場比賽中以 112-96 擊敗丹佛金塊隊，憑藉後衛阿約·多孫穆 (Ayo Dosunmu) 的歷史性表現，在系列賽中以 3-1 領先。

明尼蘇達州的輪換陣容在早期就受到了嚴重影響，唐特·迪文森佐在第一節因小腿受傷而退場，後來被證實為跟腱撕裂，導致他只能坐在輪椅上。安東尼愛德華茲也在第二節因左膝過度伸展而笨拙地落地後離場。他被排除在剩餘比賽之外，他的狀態仍然不確定。

為了應對這些失利帶來的挑戰，Dosunmu在替補席上打出了職業生涯的表現，在42分鐘內17投13中拿下43分，其中三分球5投5中，罰球12投12中。繼第三場拿下 25 分之後，他再次取得突破。

這位26歲的球員拿下43分，是繼1976年弗雷德·布朗(Fred Brown)拿下45分之後，50年來替補球員季後賽得分最高的表現，也是季後賽歷史上替補得分第二高的球員。而且，他成為NBA史上第一位單場40+、投籃命中率至少75%、三分命中5+、罰球命中10+的球員。

灰狼隊也得到了關鍵貢獻，納茲·里德（Naz Reid）得到17分，博恩斯·海蘭德（Bones Hyland）得到8分，邁克·康利（Mike Conley）得到5分、4個籃板和2次搶斷，其中包括一個三分球。金塊隊在第三節領先7分，但明尼蘇達隊以21-6的高潮回應控制局面，海蘭德和多孫穆在失誤後突破上籃。第四節打出9-0的高潮，將領先擴大到95-82，隨後康利的三分球將分差擴大到兩位數。

金塊隊三分球27投6中，尼古拉·約基奇拿下24分、15個籃板和9次助攻，賈馬爾·穆雷拿下30分。約基奇和穆雷下半場均24投6中。

比賽最後時刻的緊張局勢導致約基奇和朱利葉斯·蘭德爾在與賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯發生衝突後被驅逐出場，當時賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯在比賽還剩 2.1 秒時上籃得分。

灰狼隊現在可以在周一在丹佛舉行的第五場比賽中結束系列賽。

丹佛金塊隊正在為生存而戰，但第四場比賽中最大的話題之一與計劃或投籃無關。相反，這是關於尊重。在丹佛以 112-96 輸給明尼蘇達灰狼隊的最後幾秒，賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯在比賽還剩兩秒多一點時空位上籃命中。這一行為讓丹佛代理主教練大衛·阿德爾曼不太滿意。

「我不喜歡麥克丹尼爾斯的做法，」阿德爾曼賽後說。他稱這違反了現代NBA的禮儀，因為結果已經決定了。

麥克丹尼爾斯瞬間的決定引發了連鎖反應。尼古拉·約基奇在球隊經歷了一個艱難的投籃之夜後，明顯感到沮喪，他衝鋒並與麥克丹尼爾斯對峙。這引發了一場激烈的交鋒，並迅速升級。朱利葉斯·蘭德爾加入了戰鬥，他和約基奇最終在比賽還剩 1.3 秒時被驅逐出場。

大衛·阿德爾曼談賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯在比賽還剩 1.3 秒時得分：

“他就是這樣的人。”pic.twitter.com/4Ra8mGflft

— 失敗者 NBA (@UnderdogNBA) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

對丹佛來說，這一刻不只是上籃。這是關於他們認為在一場失球的比賽中不必要的不​​尊重。阿德爾曼甚至提到了一個更古老的時代，暗示這樣的比賽屬於“20世紀80年代”，而不是今天的聯盟，那裡不成文的規則仍然悄悄地管理著殘局的行為。

現在 1-3 落後，金塊隊必須將這種挫敗感轉化為執行力。在三連敗逆轉系列賽後，他們的 2026 年季後賽之旅已經達到了臨界點。儘管約基奇（24分、15個籃板、9次助攻）和賈馬爾·穆雷（30分）在第四場比賽中表現出色，但金塊隊的進攻卻陷入了停滯。在第 4 場比賽中 22.0% 的三分線外命中率令人沮喪，這凸顯了這一點。

與此同時，明尼蘇達隊繼續飆升——即使在安東尼·愛德華茲和唐特·迪文森佐受傷的情況下。隨著系列賽回到鮑爾競技場進行必勝的第五場比賽，金塊隊需要的不僅僅是動力。他們需要一個比爭議更大聲的回應。

丹佛金塊隊已經瀕臨崩潰，但尼古拉·約基奇並沒有退縮。他不會從記分板上做到這一點，當然也不會從決定第四場比賽的那一刻起就這樣做。在丹佛以 112-96 輸給明尼蘇達森林狼隊的最後幾秒，賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯在比賽最後時刻上籃得分後，約基奇衝過球場，許多人認為這場比賽是一場失球。

這起事件引發了一場激烈的爭吵，其中包括朱利葉斯·蘭德爾等人。它還導致了在僅剩 1.3 秒時的多次彈射。然而，如果有人期待悔恨，約基奇很快就會將其關閉。

「我不後悔，」他賽後說。 “因為他在所有人都停止比賽後進球了。”

“因為當所有人都停止比賽時他得分了。”

尼古拉·約基奇表示，他並不後悔在第四場比賽結束時對賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯上籃的反應。 pic.twitter.com/ZvwLeaTDbM

— ESPN (@espn) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

對約基奇來說，問題不在於赤字，而在於原則。丹佛實際上已經停止了防守，等待時間結束。麥克丹尼爾斯即使在獨自一人的情況下也決定攻擊籃筐，這違反了約基奇認為的整個聯盟的不言而喻的協議。

「當我們停止比賽時，他得分了，」他重申道。他堅稱，這種反應並不是為了傳遞訊息或團結團隊。這是本能，根植於對遊戲不成文代碼的尊重。

這種緊張氣氛現在蔓延到了鮑爾競技場舉行的必勝的第五場比賽中。這就是丹佛賽季懸而未決的地方。掘金三連敗後1-3落後。他們的失敗並不是因為缺乏明星效應，而是因為執行力不一致。約基奇在第 4 場比賽中仍然貢獻 24 分、15 個籃板和 9 次助攻，而賈馬爾·穆雷以 30 分領先所有得分手。然而，丹佛掘金糟糕的外線投籃凸顯了一個更廣泛的問題。他們犯錯的空間已經消失了。

與此同時，儘管安東尼·愛德華茲和唐特·迪文森佐受傷，明尼蘇達仍然繼續飆升。現在，隨著情緒高漲，淘汰迫在眉睫，金塊必須決定這場爭議是否會成為一種幹擾，或者成為最後一戰的火花。

丹佛金塊隊正面臨淘汰。然而，在鮑爾競技場內部，信念並沒有動搖，至少代理主教練大衛阿德爾曼沒有動搖。在此之前，金塊隊在第四場比賽中以 112-96 輸給明尼蘇達灰狼隊，將金塊隊逼到了系列賽 3-1 出局的邊緣。儘管如此，阿德曼還是在他唯一信任的公式上加倍努力。

「我真的相信我們的兩位最好的球員會找到節奏，」他指的是尼古拉·約基奇和賈馬爾·穆雷。

“我真的相信我們的兩個最好的球員會找到節奏。”

大衛·阿德爾曼相信尼古拉·約基奇和賈馬爾·穆雷將在 1-3 落後後延續系列賽👀 pic.twitter.com/5Dg1E3jzUQ

— ESPN 上的 NBA (@ESPNNBA) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

即使失敗了，數字也表明基礎仍然存在。穆雷拿下 30 分，而約基奇則打出了三雙（24 分、15 個籃板、9 次助攻），但最終被無意義的驅逐破壞了比賽的結束。

當然，第五場比賽的要求不僅僅是製作。這需要冷靜，尤其是在約基奇、朱利葉斯·蘭德爾和賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯參與的第四場比賽之後。阿德爾曼押注丹佛隊經過冠軍考驗的兩人比賽可以重新找到時機，對抗明尼蘇達隊的防守，因為明尼蘇達隊的防守已經打亂了空間並迫使他們低效的表現。金塊隊還需要從糟糕的 22.0% 三分球命中率中恢復過來。他們需要打造更乾淨的外線進攻。如果發生這種情況，生存藍圖仍然完好無損。

儘管如此，犯錯的餘地幾乎已經消失。在三連敗扭轉了早期勢頭後，丹佛 2026 年季後賽的表現已經跌至臨界低點。儘管明星輸出穩定，但配角們卻很難轉變。這暴露了在最糟糕的時候缺乏進攻平衡的情況。與此同時，明尼蘇達隊繼續利用優勢，儘管安東尼·愛德華茲和唐特·迪文森佐都受傷了。現在回到海拔高度，金塊隊面臨一個簡單的現實：要嘛贏，要嘛回家。對阿德曼來說，沒有支點，只有信任。

The Houston Astros have faced some tough situations recently. After finishing in first place at the beginning of the year, they are now in last place in the American League West with a 10–18 record. Despite a ridiculously good offense, their pitching has repeatedly lost them games.

In fact, their offense has been one of the best (if not the best). Best) in MLB. The club ranked sixth in home runs (35), fifth in batting average (.259), fourth in RBI (136), slugging percentage (.436) and OPS (.782), and third in on-base percentage (.346). It is a historic disappointment for Astros fans that such a good offense has barely managed 10 wins across the board.

But the crown jewel of that Houston offense – the one hope that fans can cling to – has been the performance of Yordan Alvarez. And, oh my god, has it been good.

Picture painted by metrics

Alvarez has had a great start to 2026. The 28-year-old slugger is in bad form, leading MLB in home runs with 11 through 28 games. In fact, Alvarez leads MLB in every important hitting statistic (expect second place in slugging percentage) with a .353/.464/.755 slash line and an earth-shattering 1.219 OPS.

The craziest part? Expected metrics are even better. His xwOBA (.556), xBA (.381) and xSLG (.871) are all in the 100th percentile of MLB hitters. This means Alvarez is performing worse than he should and is still the best offensive player in the league. Nobody can do what he is doing now.

Batting run value is a Statcast metric that specifies the run impact on each pitch, hit or plate appearance based on its outcome. A positive number indicates production above average while a negative number would indicate production below average. This is the total for the entire season.

For context, in 2022 when New York Yankee Aaron Judge broke the American League record for home runs with 62, he had a stellar +90 BRV. Alvarez is on pace to have a +118 BRV.

the ever present question of stability

Like most things in life, baseball is a game that more than anything else asks whether something is sustainable. In most cases, the answer is no. And the same thing is true here also to a great extent. Alvarez probably won’t keep up these ridiculous statistics.

Perhaps.

That being said, if he accomplishes what he’s on pace to do: 224 hits, 64 home runs and 150 RBI. Needless to mention, Alvarez is on pace for 139 walks (both intentional and not). Those are historical numbers. Apart from the fact that Álvarez would hold the American League home run record, no player in all of MLB history has ever had a stat line like this.

You’ll notice I didn’t answer the stability question. The main reason for this is to prevent the dream of being an offensive powerhouse like Alvarez from ending. It would be incredible to see a player lose like that, especially with how young he is. It’s easy to forget that the slugger is only 28 years old.

Whether or not he finishes the season with Houston is another question entirely. He has already been the subject of trade rumors with the San Diego Padres (a club searching for a high-impact bat) and, although the Astros would be crazy to trade him, the club is not looking so attractive. Started the year last in the AL West with a 10–18 record.

Who knows what the future holds for Alvarez? It’s impossible to predict the future — especially in baseball — but the Houston slugger certainly looks formidable to start the 2026 season. No matter how this ends up, Alvarez will be fun to watch.

在安東尼愛德華茲和唐特迪文森佐受傷後，明尼蘇達灰狼隊在 NBA 季後賽首輪對陣丹佛金塊隊的首輪比賽中以 112-96 贏得第四場比賽，以令人印​​象深刻的方式取得 3-1 的領先。系列賽現在移回丹佛，灰狼隊將有機會結束系列賽並晉級西部半決賽。

安東尼·愛德華茲和唐特·迪文森佐的傷病都發生在第四場上半場，金塊隊甚至在第四場半場還保持著微弱的領先優勢，但灰狼隊在下半場捲土重來，控制了比賽和系列賽。

愛德華茲和迪文琴佐都沒有重返賽場，迪文琴佐的賽季因跟腱撕裂而結束。目前還沒有關於愛德華茲受傷狀況的進一步更新。但在沒有兩名頂級球員的情況下，替補出場的阿約·多孫木 (Ayo Dosunmu) 拿下 43 分領先。

他在42分鐘的比賽中還貢獻了4個籃板、1次助攻和1次阻攻。他投籃17投13中，三分線5投5中，罰球線12投12中。多森姆是狼隊在交易截止日期前與芝加哥公牛隊達成的交易中獲得的。

在灰狼隊的前三場季後賽中，多孫穆場均得到16.0分、2.3個籃板和5.0次助攻，投籃命中率為57.6%，三分球命中率為33.3%，罰球命中率為85.7%。

朱利葉斯·蘭德爾貢獻15分、9個籃板和2次助攻，賈登·麥克丹尼爾斯得到12分、8個籃板和3次助攻。灰狼隊可以在周一的第五場比賽中結束系列賽，屆時系列賽將移回丹佛。

紐約尼克隊進入季後賽首輪系列賽第四場，對陣亞特蘭大老鷹隊，他們需要一場勝利才能避免陷入 1-3 的困境。尼克隊在第四場比賽中以 114-98 獲勝，將系列賽扳成 2-2 平，卡爾安東尼唐斯幫助球隊拿下 20 分領先。

在第四場戰勝老鷹隊之後，卡爾-安東尼·唐斯談到了尼克斯隊需要如何抓住時機，在第五場比賽中將系列賽扳平。

「我們了解這場比賽的重要性。在敵方領土上也是如此，」唐斯說。 “如果我們希望戰勝一支充滿飢餓感、運動能力強、年輕且渴望時機的球隊，那麼我們每場比賽都需要付出這樣的努力。我們必須超越這個時機。”

唐斯在第四場比賽中拿下三雙，10個籃板、10次助攻，在得分的同時也貢獻了兩次抄截。他投籃10投6中，三分線2投1中，罰球線9投7中。

為了讓尼克隊在第五場比賽中重新掌控這個系列賽，他們需要他們的明星大個子有更多這樣的表現。

在尼克隊的前三場季後賽中，唐斯場均得到21.3分、11.0個籃板、3.3次助攻、1.0次抄截和2.3次蓋帽，投籃命中率為56.8%，三分球命中率為50%，罰球命中率為100%。

關鍵的第五場比賽定於 4 月 28 日星期二在紐約舉行。

The Dallas Stars were one shot away from sending the rival Minnesota Wild to the brink of elimination.

Instead the Western Conference First Round would return to American Airlines Center tied at two games apiece after Matthew Boldy scored at 19:31 of the first OT, giving the Wild a 3–2 victory at Grand Casino Arena.

Jason Robertson and Miro Heiskanen scored once each, and goaltender Jake Oettinger made 40 saves for the Stars.

Dallas did what it needed to by reclaiming home-ice advantage with its double-overtime win in Game 3. But he blew two one-goal leads, and so allowed a great chance to take a 3-1 lead by allowing Marcus Foligno’s goal with just 5:20 remaining in regulation.

Game 5 is Tuesday at Dallas at 7 p.m.

Here are the takeaways from Game 4:

Jason Robertson and the Stars’ power play stay red hot

Dallas entered the game Saturday on a special-teams burner, and its PK didn’t allow a single goal and its man-advantage remained very hot.

Both of Dallas’ goals came on the power play, with Robertson scoring his second man-up goal and Heiskanen scoring his first goal of the series.

“Our power play has been good,” Stars coach Glenn Gulutzan said after the game.

The Stars’ power play is now 8 of 19 (42.1%) in four games and second only to the Anaheim Ducks among all teams. The Ducks have 11 less PP than the Stars due to one less game.

Dallas has scored four consecutive goals on the power play. The Stars have found success moving the puck down high and then taking advantage of diagonal passes and beating Jesper Wallstad on sharp-angle shots – which is what Robertson, Heiskanen and Matt Duchene did on their own goals.

Robertson has now scored in every game of the series and is the only one of the three Star players with multiple PPG in the series. At this point the Stars need to figure out how to score at even strength, as they only have three goals at 5-on-5.

“We just couldn’t get any puck luck,” Gulutzan said. “We just have to start over to finish something.”

Jake Oettinger almost saved the stars

Oettinger has lost Stars games in the past, but their goalie wasn’t the reason for their loss on Saturday.

In Game 4 the Wild finished with a 3.84 expected goals against and outscored the Stars 24–17 in the third period and overtime. Foligno’s goal came from a rebound, where the Minnesota forward got over Oettinger and deposited the puck into the empty cage. Brock Faber’s goal was a shot worth watching.

Oettinger’s numbers in the series may not look impressive, but he has been excellent since Dallas’ 6-1 loss in Game 1. The Stars’ franchise goalie has a 1.38 all-situation goals-against average and a .924 save percentage over his last three games and could use some extra support from his teammates.

“I thought he made some massive saves,” Gulutzan said. “You need it this time of year, and he gave it to us.”

Oettinger made 10-belle saves after 10-belle saves throughout OT – Minnesota could only beat him when Boldy tried to kick the puck for a disallowed goal. But Boldy then redirected Jared Spurgeon’s shot from the point.

The Wild, Stars series deserves to be equal

Game 1 was lopsided, but the series went as we all expected.

The last two games have gone to overtime, including a double-OT affair in Game 3. The investigation is strict. The atmosphere is noisy. Both teams are highly-skilled. This series should be tied at two points after four matches.

It’s easier said than done, but Stars fans should try to enjoy the ride of Stanley Cup playoff hockey. This series seems destined to go seven games, and even Gulutzan has acknowledged that.

“There are a lot of guys playing good hockey in this series,” Gulutzan said. “It’s just two good hockey teams.”

Pat Pickens is an award-winning sports writer and author who has covered the NHL since 2013. He reveals more about Pat Pickens.

賈倫·羅斯是一名自豪的底特律活塞隊球迷，他在這座城市長大，後來在安娜堡的密西根大學成為明星。羅斯在13年的NBA生涯中從未效力於活塞隊，但現在他出現在媒體面前，他毫不畏懼地分享他仍然是活塞隊的球迷。

週六下午，羅斯正在 ESPN 上觀看 NBA 比賽，活塞隊將與奧蘭多魔術隊進行關鍵的第三場比賽。系列賽前兩場兩隊打成平手，最後魔術隊以113-105獲勝，取得系列賽2-1領先。東部第一種子隊現在面臨著對陣魔術隊的第四場幾乎是必勝的比賽，羅斯在賽後秀中表達了自己的感受。

“當我上車時我可能會哭。我對這場比賽感到非常沮喪。”@賈倫羅斯 對他的活塞隊在奧蘭多輸掉第三場比賽的反應 ✍️ pic.twitter.com/k51TQJWxMB

— ESPN 上的 NBA (@ESPNNBA) 2026 年 4 月 26 日

魔術隊在系列賽第一場比賽中爆冷擊敗活塞隊，系列賽1-0領先，並以一號種子的季後賽開局不利。雖然輸給八號種子已經夠痛苦的了，但這也延長了底特律已經持續了18年的季後賽主場連敗紀錄。

活塞隊在第二場比賽中以98-83獲勝，這表明他們出色的防守是他們奪取東部第一的主要原因。這場壓倒性的勝利感覺可能會讓底特律隊的勢頭向有利於底特律的方向轉變，但奧蘭多隊在第三場比賽中在主場的快速反彈讓活塞隊和他們的球迷做了最壞的打算。

魔術隊現在將在周一晚上主場迎戰活塞隊，這是該系列賽的一場至關重要的搖擺比賽，羅斯將在場觀看。

In the first half of Game 4 against the Ottawa Senators, the Carolina Hurricanes lost their rookie defenceman, Alexander Nikishin, to injury, which soon led to a line brawl and increased physicality during the rest of the match. Although information was minimal, head coach Rod Brind’Amour spoke to the media about him after the game.

Alexander Nikishin was injured in the second period in Game 4 against the Ottawa Senators

With 15:29 left on the second period clock, Alexander Nikishin hit the ice hard.

Senators defenseman Tyler Kleven took a hard hit on him – a hit that snapped Nikishin’s head back and knocked him off his feet. Shortly thereafter, Andrei Svechnikov and Sebastian Aho converged on Kleven as others on the ice found someone to feud with.

As soon as Kleven was hit with a major penalty and reviewed, head athletic trainer Doug Bennett rushed onto the ice to tend to Nikishin. He managed to stand on his own strength, but as he went to skate, he fell and was caught by Bennett and Seth Jarvis. Soon after, Shayne Gostisbeer skated over and helped Jarvis off the ice.

After review, Cleven’s five-minute major penalty was voided, leaving only Jordan Spence to receive a minor penalty for roughing against Gostisbehere, and Svechnikov receiving two minor penalties against Cleven for roughing, giving the Senators a power play.

Words from head coach Rod Brind’Amour regarding Alexander Nikishin’s injury after the game

“Nikishin, I don’t know, I can’t tell you,” Brind’Amour told the media. “It’s clearly a concussion there. Or certainly seemed like one.”

“So, I don’t have any definite information on that.”

Nikishin previously suffered an injury in the KHL in January 2025 as captain of SKA St. Petersburg. He was cleared to return to play a week later.

Rachel Barkley is a beat writer covering the Carolina Hurricanes for Carolina Hockey Now on SportsNote. Painting Stories…More About Rachel Barclay

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, stories and content you may have missed on Friday.

montreal canadiens news

It was another even game, at least on the scoreboard. Thanks to an overtime goal from Len Hutson, the Habs emerged with a 2–1 win and a 2–1 series lead. All things considered, the scoreline was a little favorable towards the Tampa Bay Lightning, a team that generated a fair amount of high-danger scoring chances at 5v5. [Canadiens Highlights: Hutson Plays The Hero In Big Win]

Hutson’s game-winning goal was so good it’s worth watching twice.

lane hutson is yours @Energizer Overtime Hero! 🔵⚪️🔴 #Stanley Cup pic.twitter.com/nJCmLD0jod

– NHL (@NHL) 25 April 2026

It should also be noted that Hutson somehow managed to achieve his goal. This may seem arrogant to some, but we all know that’s not Hutson’s style. He is confident in his game and has the results to back it up.

Lane Hutson joked to his teammates before OT that he felt like he had the game-winner tonight.

According to Jaden Struble, Lane just let out a “I think I got it tonight” and went out and scored GWG.

#48 to 6/5 Competitiveness pic.twitter.com/4o2NV82KlW

– Marco D’Amico (@mndamico) 25 April 2026

Captain Nick Suzuki’s dry humor was at play after the thrilling win.

#hubs Nick Suzuki on Lane Hutson’s bomb from the overtime point: “I didn’t think he could hit it that hard…” the captain said with a smile.

– Priyantha Amrith (@HabsInHighHeels) 25 April 2026

While the first line struggles to generate much offense at even strength, Kirby Dach has done a great job in leading the Canadiens to wins, including a two-point effort on Friday night. It was one of his best games in a Habs uniform since joining the team in 2022.

Cole Caufield at tomorrow’s Habs playoff home game:

“We watched Game 3 at the Bell Center on Friday night, everyone was just smiling from ear to ear, like…

‘Fuck me. That would be madness.’

“We know tomorrow night is going to be an absolute blast.” pic.twitter.com/HUGRjxoKqj

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 23 April 2026

It’s very easy to dismiss the play of Arbor Czekaj and Jaden Struble on the third pairing, but it would be intellectually dishonest to ignore the fact that they lead all NHL defensemen in expected goal share. Yes, it is easy to play on the third pair, but it is never easy to control more than 80% of the expected goals. [Canadiens Need Better Results From Top Four]

Xhekaj and Struble currently rank first and second in xGF%.

Yes, the use is easier on the third pair, but it is also true that they have been excellent.

If those numbers were that easy to produce, they wouldn’t be several times ahead of the entire NHL.

This is a very good pair. pic.twitter.com/tCqzFUlQ0x

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 25 April 2026

Ivan Demidov sat down with Elliotte Friedman to discuss his rookie season with the Habs, and how they quickly became part of their family.

Sportsknot Network

There was no chance that the New Jersey Devils were going to let Sunny Mehta slip through their fingers. Sunny Mehta is eight days into his Devils tenure and has already endeared himself to the New Jersey organization and fans in his introductory press conference. Yet, just nine days ago, there was real interest and possibility that Mehta could be the next man in charge of the Toronto Maple Leafs. [New Jersey Devils]

A little number 86 flying around the ice playing with the puck on his stick? That must be Jack Hughes, right? Actually, it’s Buffalo Sabers rookie, Noah Ostlund. When the Sabers learned they were losing Josh Norris to injury in Game 3, it caused a bit of panic. [Buffalo Sabres]

There’s no love lost between the Carolina Hurricanes and Ottawa Senators during the Round One matchup in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and after the events of Game 3, it’s safe to say that the general feeling of dislike has grown even deeper after Jake Sanderson left the game following a check to the head of Taylor Hall. [Ottawa Senators]

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

紐約尼克隊進入 NBA 季後賽首輪系列賽第四場，對陣亞特蘭大老鷹隊，他們迫切需要一場勝利才能避免系列賽 3-1 落後。第三節末段，尼克隊保持著兩位數的領先優勢，但所有人的目光都集中在賈倫布倫森身上，他似乎在本節初就腳踝受傷了。

根據《紐約郵報》的斯特凡邦迪報道，截至發稿時，尼克隊在第四節初仍以微弱優勢領先老鷹隊，布倫森也回到了球隊的替補席上。第四節，布倫森出賽28分鐘，得到12分、2次助攻和1次抄截。他投籃15投5中，三分線5投2中。

受傷最初發生在第四場比賽第三節的前幾分鐘，賈倫布倫森試圖擺脫尼克斯隊隊友喬什哈特的掩護。但他的腳踝似乎被哈特的腳絆住了，他摔倒在地。他退出比賽，徑直走向更衣室。

布倫森的回歸對尼克球迷來說顯然是一個好兆頭，因為球隊希望在系列賽中扳平比分。在系列賽的前三場比賽中，布倫森場均得到27.7分、3.3個籃板、6.0次助攻和1.0次搶斷，投籃命中率為42.3%，三分球命中率為36.8%，罰球命中率為80%。

隨著系列賽的繼續，對布倫森的關注將成為老鷹隊比賽計劃的重要組成部分。該系列賽的第 5 場比賽定於 4 月 28 日星期二在紐約舉行。

There were punches thrown and blood flowing, but at the end of the day, the line of handshakes unfolded like it was the most gentlemanly match of the afternoon – as it always is, as it always should be.

As for the Carolina Hurricanes, they greeted the handshake line with smiles as they were about to come out on top with a 4-2 win over the Ottawa Senators. It was only the second time in franchise history that the Hurricanes swept a team in a four-game series, and the first time that they did not hold a lead in any of the games played.

As the game began, the Hurricanes were without one of their best playmakers in Nikolaj Ehlers, who was ruled out with a lower body injury shortly before the game began. With an open spot in the lineup, the Hurricanes chose to employ their grinder and bruiser, Nicolas Deslauriers. Due to his fourth-line placement and frequent use of special teams, he logged only six shifts in 3:09 – but the time he played was very noticeable. He was second in most hits throughout the game with a total of four hits, and managed to block one shot and have one shot on goal in his short time on the ice.

Tyler Kleven’s hit on Alexander Nikishin led to a heated argument throughout the game.

As the game remained scoreless early in the second period, Tyler Kleven laid down a big hit on Alexander Nikishin – a hit that served as the first domino of a long line of heated exchanges throughout the game, but sadly ended Nikishin’s own match.

The Hurricanes on the ice immediately stood up for their teammate, and by the time the puck was dropped again, the Hurricanes were shorthanded. Cleven’s hit was reviewed, but he was not awarded a penalty.

Carolina accumulated a total of 22 penalty minutes throughout the game, giving the Senators nine power plays, including three five-on-three opportunities.

Hurricanes’ secondary scorers, defense come up big again

A little over 15 minutes into the second period, the first goal of the game came from Public Enemy Number One in Ottawa, Ontario, when Taylor Hall found the back of the net. Throughout the game, he was booed from the crowd whenever he touched the puck due to his controversial hit on Jake Sanderson in Game 3, which put the Senators’ top-pairing defenseman in concussion protocol, essentially ending his postseason.

Hall has accounted for each of the Hurricanes’ game-opening goals so far in the postseason.

A few minutes later, Drake Batherson evened the score on the power play.

At 9:10 of the third period, the Hurricanes once again got help from Logan Stankoven, who put the puck in the back of the net on the power play to give Carolina the lead. In doing so, he became the first player in franchise history to start the postseason with a four-game goal streak.

The lead held for the rest of the game, with Sebastian Aho scoring his first empty-netter goal of the game (yes, his first), followed soon after by Dylan Cozens scoring a claw-back goal to bring the game within a goal again, Aho then scored his second empty-netter goal and a 4–2 win.

The defense and penalty killer were excellent throughout the series, and really shined in the Hurricanes’ two games north of the border. In this aspect Saturday was an even bigger story than Thursday, and Jacob Slavin was representing it with great effort. Of the full 13:21 time on the penalty kill, Slavin played an astonishing 10:14. Overall, he played 26:22 and led all Hurricanes skaters in ice time.

storm game notes

The Hurricanes are the first team in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs to punch their ticket to the second round.

In all four games, the Hurricanes never trailed the Senators. They were the first team to do so in a first-round series since the Detroit Red Wings in 2009.

Despite ranking first for most penalties taken (26) so far in the postseason, the Hurricanes allowed only one power play goal in their entire series against the Senators. With a penalty kill percentage of 95.2, only the Boston Bruins have a better penalty kill (100%) due to penalty volume (also 26).

With the conclusion of Carolina’s first-round series, FanDuel Sports Network will no longer be the broadcast home of the Hurricanes, as they will officially cease operations after all first-round games are completed.

Rachel Barkley is a beat writer covering the Carolina Hurricanes for Carolina Hockey Now on SportsNote. Painting Stories…More About Rachel Barclay

Just a week ago, the Senators were filled with hope as they entered the first round of their series against the Hurricanes. Fast forward to today, and the senator is on the verge of elimination. After not losing a single game for three games, they will now try to avoid a sweep without their best player. During the third game, Jake Sanderson took a hard hit from Taylor Hall. Hall was given a two-minute penalty. Sanderson left the game, did not return and would not play in the fourth game due to an injury. While winning Game 4 is a must, it is also absolutely essential for the Senators to stand up for Sanderson. Let’s get into the details.

senators are still struggling

Coming into the series, I have come up with five keys that will allow the Senators to pull off the Hurricanes upset. You can read about them in detail here, but here’s a quick recap:

• Rely on last year’s experience
• ulmark
• penalty killing
• Sanderson, Stützle and Tkachuk are leading
• Pinto’s defensive game

Ullmark and the penalty kill have both been very good. Pinto has been like that, as he hasn’t been a standout defensive forward in the series compared to some of the Hurricanes players. As far as relying on last year’s experience, it doesn’t seem like the Sens are overwhelmed, but a year of playoff experience clearly pales in comparison to the Hurricanes, who have made the playoffs eight consecutive years and look like a well-oiled machine after the shift.

The biggest failure in the above five points is the Senators’ star players. To his credit, Sanderson was playing well, especially in game two when he played 43:06 and assisted on both of the Senators’ goals. Of course, he’s out now. The Senators looked much worse without him to end the third game. Now the time has come for other stars to move forward as well.

Stützle and Tkachuk haven’t been very good anywhere. Both of them have been declared redundant. They were both on the ice for two overtime-winning game two by the Canes. Stützle missed his great chance to end that game. Tkachuk missed his perfect chance to tie game three. They both have been part of a miserable power play with no scores on 12 occasions. They will need to lead offensively and physically in game four, especially after what happened with Sanderson.

Breaking down Taylor Hall’s blow to Sanderson

Travis Green clarified his thoughts on the hit that injured Sanderson. He called it “a tremendous blow to the head, one you don’t want to see.”

In the game, Hall had a clear chance at the puck. In fact, he had a better angle to the puck than Sanderson. However, he had no interest in Puck. That’s OK, it’s playoff hockey and playing physical is a big part of any winning strategy. However, it is up to Hall to make sure his physicality is clean. This hit was not clean at all. The direct point of contact was on the head. In fact, the referee’s call on the ice was for an illegal check on the head. Sanderson missed the second half of the third game and will now miss the fourth game due to a cheap shot. Yet somehow, even though the referee saw it as an illegal checking, it was only a two-minute penalty without any supplementary discipline.

Later in the game Brady Tkachuk was initially given a major penalty for a cheap shot on Jordan Martinook. The referee reviewed it and changed it to a two-minute interference call. Maybe the lesson here is to go down in the snow as if you were in excruciating pain like Martinook, unlike Sanderson, who kept trying to battle on.

standing up for sanderson

It is the second time this season that a hit has forced Sanderson to miss time. The first time, it was a hit by Brandon Montour that caused Sanderson to miss 13 games. No one addressed the senators about this that night. Sure, it was a clean hit, but we have seen in the past that players have to answer for clean hits. The Hall hit was not clean at all and needs attention this time. The Senators need to play their most physical game of the season. Brady Tkachuk needs to lead. Through three games, he is tied for 12th in the series with eight hits. By comparison, Dylan Cozens leads the Senators with 14. William Carrier leads the series with 20.

A stage fight is not a good enough answer. We’ve seen a lot from Tkachuk recently. I’m not suggesting a cheap shot at Hall, but he needs to be upset. So to the star players on the Hurricanes. Take a page out of the Florida Panthers book. Matthew Tkachuk is always ready to set the tone physically. When Sebastian Aho delivered a bruising hit to Sam Reinhart in last year’s playoffs, Tkachuk beat out Aho in the next game to make room for Reinhart.

It is not necessary that Brady Tkachuk fill in for Sanderson, although that would be ideal. However, someone needs to move forward. Let’s face it, the Sens are in an impossible situation, down three games to one against a loaded Hurricanes team. Although winning the series may not be possible, the Senators can at least favor their best player. He has tried to make his mark on the basis of hard work and perseverance. This is an important test to show who they really are.

Danny was born and raised in Ottawa and still lives in that city. He has followed… more about Danny McCloskey

It is absolutely true that Sunny Mehta’s first choice was always the New Jersey Devils. However, there was no guarantee in his mind that he was the Devils’ first choice before firing Tom Fitzgerald.

In the link, how HBSE ambushed MLSE for Mehta. Also, details of Mehta’s introductory conference.

Elsewhere, a standout rookie is looking for more in Buffalo, Detroit, and Captain Macklin?

Devil’s Trade Rumors and News

New Jersey Hockey Now: Devils ownership made several mistakes in hiring Sunny Mehta. Certainly, Mehta wanted the devils and the devils wanted Mehta. But there is more to it. Here’s how HBSE ambushed Toronto to capture Mehta.

📺 devil’s rink report: Mehta met the media for the first time for his introductory press conference and expressed his support to the organization, media and fans alike. He didn’t reveal too much, but there was a lot to chew on. In the latest episode of Devil’s Rink Report, we gave the full details.

Full episode here 👇🏼

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NHL Trade Talk, News and National Hockey Now

Buffalo hockey now: The Buffalo Sabers took Game 3 from the Boston Bruins on their own field. Here’s how Noah Ostlund’s NHL playoff debut stole the show with a 3-1 win.

Forever Blueshirts: Here’s how Alexis Lafreniere is making one of the guys covering the New York Rangers a believer.

Athletic ($): The Habs have been a fun story to watch this season, but the Tampa Bay Lightning may not be able to catch up to them in the series. That’s why the bolts are behind.

Pittsburgh hockey now: If the Pittsburgh Penguins have a chance to overcome a 3-0 deficit in their first-round series, here are three things they need to do.

Boston hockey now: Just like the Sabers got Ostlund, Boston Bruins head coach Marco Sturm is looking for more continuity from his kid line.

San Jose Hockey Now: Ryan Reaves wants to see Macklin Celebrini wear the ‘C’ for the San Jose Sharks.

Colorado hockey now: Despite leading the series 3-0 over the Los Angeles Kings, is the Colorado Avalanche power play an issue?

Philly hockey now: That’s why Will James says there should be some confidence in Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Samuelsson.

Detroit hockey now: The Detroit Red Wings ultimately did not make the playoffs and are now the longest-serving team to miss the league. They need more from their top players. That’s why they want Lucas Raymond to shoot more.

Montreal hockey now: On their way to taking the lead over the Lightning, here’s how Len Hutson called the game for the Montreal Canadiens in Game 3 on Friday night.

James is the fully certified New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on SportsNote and … More about James Nicholls

俄克拉荷馬城雷霆隊在第三場比賽中以 121-109 擊敗菲尼克斯太陽隊，在系列賽中以 3-0 領先。這是謝伊·吉爾傑斯·亞歷山大的另一個令人印象深刻的表現，他在周六恰好創造了 NBA 季後賽歷史。

據內部人士托梅爾·阿扎利透露，有報導稱，這位27歲的控球後衛是季後賽歷史上第二位得分超過40分且投籃命中率至少達到83.3%的球員。吉爾吉斯-亞歷山大也是有史以來第一位在比賽中沒有投進超過一個三分球的情況下實現這一壯舉的球員。

「謝伊·吉爾吉斯-亞歷山大是繼特里·波特之後，NBA 季後賽歷史上第二位拿下 40 分以上且投籃命中率達到 83.3% 的球員。謝伊是唯一一位在沒有投進超過 1 個三分球的情況下做到這一點的球員。”

這位八年老將以 42 分、4 個籃板、8 次助攻和 1 次抄截結束了第三場比賽的勝利。吉爾吉斯亞歷山大的投籃命中率為 83.3%，三分命中率為 33.3%，12 次罰球命中 11 次。他基本上是不可阻擋的，因為太陽隊對這位雷霆球星沒有答案。

俄克拉荷馬市只需要再贏一場就能晉級 NBA 季後賽下一輪。俱樂部將繼續依靠剛剛獲得今年離合器年度最佳球員獎的謝伊·吉爾吉斯·亞歷山大。他是 MVP 獎的決賽入圍者，如果他獲勝，吉爾傑斯-亞歷山大將成為繼尼古拉·約基奇（2020-21、2021-22）之後第一位連續兩屆 MVP 獲得者。

吉爾吉斯-亞歷山大在 2025-26 賽季結束時打了 68 場比賽。他無疑是雷霆隊的當家球星，場均貢獻31.1分、4.3個籃板、6.6次助攻和1.4次搶斷，投籃命中率為55.3%，三分線外命中率為38.6%。

Everyone was talking about Fernando Mendoza on Thursday night, and rightfully so. The Raiders finally have their franchise quarterback, and this story will dominate the conversation for years. But Day 2 is where front offices show who they really are — and in Las Vegas, GM Jon Spitek gave us a few things to like and at least one decision to take back.

Did the attackers miss a gem the next day?

Let’s start with the one that is stuck in my claws.

When the Raiders and Texans made their trade — Las Vegas sent picks 36 and 117 to Houston in exchange for picks 38 and 91 — I got the logic on paper. You drop two spots, pick a third rounder, and you’re still getting your guy. But here’s the problem: The guy Houston wanted was Kayden McDonald, and I wanted the Raiders to take him. McDonald certainly could have gone in the first round – a rare playmaker at nose tackle weighing 330 pounds with elite production. This is not an exaggeration. He’s a generational interior guard, and the Raiders let him slide two spots off the board so they could get an extra pick.

I understand the draft-capital argument. I do. But there’s a version of this where you stay at 36, grab a McDonald’s, and your defensive line looks completely different in 2026. You don’t always get those players. Spytek called it a great move and said he believed Stukes would still be there and that he only needed to survive two picks to get his partner. Good. But the 36-year-old “our guy” could be a Pro Bowl-caliber nose tackle. Instead, McDonald’s is in Houston.

Now, to be fair, what the Raiders did with those picks is not without merit.

Spytek improves Raiders roster at points of need

Traydon Stukes, 38, addresses a real need. The Raiders’ secondary entered the draft at safety and nickelback, and Stucks can do both. He played free safety for three years at Arizona before being shifted to primarily cover the slot, and he recorded four interceptions last season. The concern is age – he’s an older guy and may be limited at max range – and that’s a legitimate knock. But the attackers were not making choices in a vacuum. They need athletes there, and Stukes fits a real hole.

At 67, they added edge rusher Kieron Crawford from Auburn, a former basketball player with good athleticism who could use development but can contribute immediately as a pass-rusher. With Max Crosby still presenting that line, Crawford doesn’t need to be an immediate impact guy. He just has to grow, and there’s a fair way.

Raiders best pick of day two

Then came the pick that I really liked the most the other day. With the 91st pick – the third-rounder they got from Houston – the Raiders took Texas A&M guard Trey Zuhn III, who adds versatility to the offensive line, having played multiple positions in the trenches in college. If Fernando Mendoza is the future, protecting him is the present. Zuhn fits into that priority. After spending two third-rounders on offensive linemen in Caleb Rogers and Charles Grant last year, the Raiders are bringing in young talent, which is exactly the right approach when you’ve handed your offense over to a 22-year-old quarterback who is making his first NFL start.

So where does that leave us after two days? The Raiders’ base is in Mendoza. They’ve added secondary help, depth on the edge and another piece to the offensive line. By most measures this is a functional draft. The choice of Stukes is reasonable, even if it doesn’t excite you. Crawford is a project with upside. The Zuhn was really good value.

But I keep coming back to Kayden McDonald. Getting a 330-pound nose tackle with that kind of production at this price doesn’t come often, and the Raiders pounced on him the first time around. Instead he chose business. Maybe SpyTech’s board told him he was stuck and an extra pick would be the better play. Maybe it was. We won’t know for three years.

What we do know is that after a decade of wandering in the desert, the Raiders have a plan, a quarterback, and a draft class that, at least, doesn’t blow it before it starts. This matters more than ever in Las Vegas.

Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1…More about Scott Gulbransen

On Friday, 23 veterans and prospects were released from their existing contracts in the latest round of WWE’s annual roster cuts. Some of the most notable names to be released this week were each member of the Wyatt Six, Kairi Sane, and wrestling power couple Aleister Black and Zelina Vega.

While this was bad news for those wrestlers, it does leave a group of interesting talents in pro wrestling free agency at a time when the industry is strong. All Elite Wrestling should seriously consider signing veteran performers soon. With that in mind, here are seven former WWE stars that AEW should target on the open market.

carry sen

AEW’s women’s division has come a long way over the years. However, that still pales in comparison to the absurd amount of talent on WWE’s roster. But WWE has just offered several talented female wrestlers that Tony Khan may want to quickly embrace. The most notable is Japanese veteran Kairi Sane.

Khan has mentioned being a fan of Sane in the past and has a clear love for the talent from the Land of the Rising Sun. While Sane may no longer be in her prime, she is still a good performer who one will have a lot of sympathy for as she was not given the chance to finish her long-running storyline with Asuka in WWE.

motor city machine gun

AEW probably has the best bell-to-bell wrestling in the world. Another thing they do well is highlight tag wrestling. This has been a weakness for WWE during the Paul “Triple H” Levesque era, and it’s why TNA legends the Motor City Machine Guns have had a disappointing run in the company.

When he hit free agency a few years ago, there were rumors that he might sign with AEW. A move back to TNA seems very unlikely, and there are far more interesting matchups for Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley in AEW as a team or singles.

alba fire

AEW has made huge inroads among European wrestling fans. That’s why they can go to Wembley Stadium every year and perform very well. Therefore, former Women’s Tag Champion Alba Fires should be a top target in free agency.

She is a strong wrestler and gives them another talent that attracts and keeps fans in the UK. Additionally, her former WWE tag partner, Isla Dawn, is already under the AEW umbrella.

Santos Escobar

AEW has strongly embraced its working relationship with Mexico’s CMLL as well as the Spanish-speaking audience. That’s why it would be wise to capture Santos Escobar. However, unlike most of the CMLL talent performing in AEW, Escobar is fluent in English and can connect with fans in both languages.

Furthermore, he is at his best right now and despite being a strong wrestler in the ring, he is underrated on the mic.

zoey stark

Zoey Stark was snake bitten by injuries during her tenure in WWE, including rupturing her knee ligaments twice. However, when healthy, she was one of the most athletic and skilled female wrestlers on the roster.

His latest knee injury has likely taken away his athletic gifts. However, at just 32 years old, she feels like a perfect fit for AEW and a great addition to the women’s division.

nikki cross

Nikki Cross is a talented performer who was treated poorly as a member of the Wyatt Six. Since WWE had trouble booking the unique group, he did not have a single match while a part of the faction. His wild character work is always entertaining, and he’s a rock-solid worker in the ring.

Additionally, like Alba Fires, she will be an addition that will not only strengthen the AEW women’s division but also strengthen the company’s relationship with UK Wrestling.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

On Friday, 23 veterans and prospects were released from their existing contracts in the latest round of WWE’s annual roster cuts. Some of the most notable names to be released this week were each member of the Wyatt Six, Kairi Sane, and wrestling power couple Aleister Black and Zelina Vega.

While this was bad news for those wrestlers, it does leave a group of interesting talents in pro wrestling free agency at a time when the industry is strong. TNA Wrestling should consider signing contracts soon, including veteran performers. With that in mind, here are six former WWE stars that TNA should target on the open market.

apollo crew

At one time, Apollo Cruz was one of the must-see artists on the independent scene due to his impressive athleticism. More than a decade later, at the age of 38, Cruz is still an entertaining wrestler. But that was never his problem. It was always about finding a character that fans connect with and stick with for a while.

This is why he would be a better fit in TNA wrestling rather than battling the AEW roster for Best Match of the Night. TNA focuses a little more on character work, so if they find something that connects them with the audience, Crews could be a huge opportunity for promotion.

aleister black and zelina vega

The obvious assumption would be that, following his release, Aleister Black would return to AEW, where he found real success prior to his second stint in WWE. However, it would be wise for Carlos Silva to prioritize bringing Black and his wife Zelina Vega to TNA.

Their release this week surprised many as they were frequently used on SmackDown and seemed to be getting into a rhythm as characters. In TNA, this duo could be instantly catapulted to the top and become mainstays of the roster for the next few years, while also making some good money.

eric rowan

Erick Rowan has a useful talent for attacking enemies as a large monster. However, a performer like him doesn’t feel like a fit in this version of AEW. However, TNA could make better use of men like Rowan. They will be able to play to his strengths and get the most out of an artist whose prime years are still ahead of him.

Tyra Mae Steele

One of the other surprise releases by WWE this week was Olympic gold medalist Tyra Mae Steele. When the company signed her three years earlier, she was introduced as a future world champion and the female version of Kurt Angle. However, they may have felt that she was not developing at the pace they needed and dropped her.

He still needs further development, but has immense potential. TNA can help her become a better professional wrestler, and having a gold medalist would be a great addition to their women’s roster.

dexter loomis

Dexter Loomis has shown in the past that he can develop some strange but fun characters. Plus, he has great looks and is a very good athlete. TNA Wrestling seems like a perfect fit for a performer like Lumis, who needs time to let his character breathe. Also, rekindling their beloved history with Indi Hartwell in NXT but not in TNA would be a smart play.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

週五晚上，聖安東尼奧馬刺隊在沒有維克多溫班亞馬的情況下，在第三場比賽中以 120-108 擊敗波特蘭拓荒者隊。當溫比繼續從頭部受傷中恢復過來時，俱樂部分享了有關他腦震盪治療方案的重要更新。

據《聖安東尼奧快報》的湯姆奧斯伯恩報道，隨著馬刺隊準備對陣開拓者隊的第四場比賽，這位 22 歲的中鋒仍處於腦震盪治療中。主教練米奇·約翰遜聲稱，他和該組織正在與 NBA 合作，以解決文班亞馬的問題。

奧斯伯恩報道稱，米奇·約翰遜週六在熱刺隊酒店舉行的媒體會議上表示，「溫比仍在接受腦震盪治療」。 “‘我們仍在努力完成整個過程，並繼續與 NBA 合作，’教練說。”

這位效力三年的老將在馬刺隊第二場比賽以106-103輸給拓荒者隊的比賽中，頭重重地撞在地上，導致腦震盪。溫班亞馬在衝向籃框時失去平衡，臉朝下摔在了球場上。他立即被從比賽中除名，此後一直處於腦震盪治療中。

馬刺隊在第三場比賽中依靠盧克·科內特擔任中鋒。他打出了可靠的數據（14分，10個籃板），但馬刺隊希望讓這位2025-26年度最佳防守球員儘早回到陣容中，而不是稍後。

維克多溫班亞馬 (Victor Wembanyama) 常規賽打了 64 場比賽。整個賽季他是聯盟中最好的球員之一，場均貢獻25.0分、11.5個籃板、3.1次助攻和3.1次蓋帽，投籃命中率為51.2%，三分線外命中率為34.9%。

We were treated to chaos at Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday afternoon, as a few of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series points leaders went back-and-forth on all three stages to deliver spectacular finishes at Talladega. This also resulted in some movement on the leaderboard.

Here are the latest standings from the NASCAR O’Reilly Series right now after the Ag-Pro 300.

NASCAR O’Reilly Series standings after Talladega

Official: 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series results at Talladega

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

On Friday, 23 veterans and prospects from the WWE roster learned that the company no longer needed their services. While the release after the WrestleMania season caught many fans by surprise, as the company refreshes storylines, they also refresh the roster. And pay cuts in the spring have become an annual event.

However, in recent years, there has been a second round of releases towards the end of the year. Although it looks like this set of cuts has been finalized, unfortunately these 10 WWE stars may be a part of more releases later this year.

Austin theory

Austin Theory really needs to hope that this effort goes further with The Vision. He has received several opportunities in the company, including a big push a few years ago that led to a victory over John Cena at WrestleMania.

Although he is currently one half of the World Tag Team Champions, this new version of his character has not gained much traction, and serves as the main damage taker for the faction. If The Vision doesn’t make serious momentum over the next six months, Theory could top the next roster cut list.

wendy chu

Wendy Chu has been in the WWE system for seven years. She is the longest performing player who has not reached the main roster. Currently, she holds the top women’s title at Evolve, but it is the lowest level in the WWE system. After going through some character changes, Chu should be making some big waves in Evolvable, as a release in 2026 is a real possibility.

Fraxiom

The tag duo of Axiom and Nathan Fraser is very talented. They were the anchors of NXT throughout 2024 and will go down as one of the brand’s greatest tag teams. Still, the main roster remains a place where tag teams disappear.

So far, this duo has been doomed on SmackDown as WWE creative can’t figure out how to showcase their tag division. Because Fraxiom creates so much buzz in the ring, both of them are in danger of taking a pay cut at the end of the year.

shinsuke nakamura

Shinsuke Nakamura will go down as the greatest Japanese-born performer in WWE history. However, he has squandered the opportunity to push them into the main event for a longer period of time on several occasions. At 46, his best days are behind him. To make matters worse, his role on SmackDown last year has been very limited.

It feels like it’s only a matter of time before the WWE legend decides that he’s getting paid too much money despite how little he gets used to it.

creed brothers

There was a lot of hype about the Creed Brothers during their time in NXT. There was speculation that both could be future main eventers on the main roster. However, when he was promoted fans quickly discovered that his personality did not match his impressive skills in the ring.

When Chad Gable gets unmasked as the OG El Grande Americano, if the reborn version of American Made doesn’t gain popularity over the summer, Creed’s days in WWE may be over.

bronson reed

Bronson Reed showed in 2025 that he can become a major player in WWE. However, in the past year, he has also proven that he is having trouble staying healthy. Let’s not forget, this is his second innings in the company after being released in 2021. Nevertheless, he has suffered two major injuries since rejoining WWE in 2022.

Zoey Starks had similar talent and brilliance, but she also suffered several major injuries during her tenure. She was one of 23 cuts this week as she nears the end of her recovery from torn knee ligaments.

ivy blue

Ivy Nile is a rock-solid performer with a unique look. However, like his faction mates, the Creed Brothers, he lacks personality. There was an opportunity for WWE creative to create a long-term tag team with him and Maxxin Dupree. However, they took the latter in a different direction.

With NXT bringing out new female talent all the time, Niles needs to gain some momentum if she hopes to keep her spot for the rest of the year.

The Miz

Miz continues to prove why he is valuable and is willing to do whatever the company needs. However, change is inevitable, and after 20 years in WWE, it puts him in the target of roster cuts.

Making his situation even more difficult, Ethan Page was called to Raw this week. The NXT star is, in many ways, a younger and perhaps more cost-effective version of The Miz. Although it’s unlikely this year, The Miz should still have some concerns regarding his future in WWE.

jesse mateo

Jessie Mateo is a talented wrestler and has proven this during her stints in Lucha Underground and NJPW. However, he has been considered a henchman of MFT since he joined the company last year. It would be in his best interest to break away from the team and showcase his talents as a solo act. Because right now, they are easily placed in a position to change lines.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Who won the NASCAR race today? Corey Day scored his first career win at Talladega after a back-and-forth in the closing laps in which Jesse Love lost the lead, setting off a battle between Creed, Corey Day and Sam Mayer that ended with a loss behind the leaders.

At the track known for “The Big One”, there was early chaos in Saturday’s O’Reilly Series race, with rookie Patrick Staropoli pushed loose during check-up and hitting the wall for race-changing damage on the first lap. After that, Talladega displayed some excellent racing with wild battles from start to finish.

RELATED: NASCAR starting lineup for Sunday’s Cup Series race

Let’s look at the AG-Pro 300 results from Dega. We’ll start with full race results and points totals, followed by today’s O’Reilly Series stage results.

NASCAR Results Today: O’Reilly Auto Parts Series

Here are the NASCAR O’Reilly Series results today.

RELATED: NASCAR predictions for Talladega

AG-Pro 300 results: O’Reilly Series stage results today at Talladega

Here are the AG-Pro stage results from today’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Degas.

Official 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Series standings now

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

奧蘭多魔術隊在周六的第三場比賽中以 113-105 擊敗底特律活塞隊，系列賽以 2-1 領先，保羅班切羅在勝利後明確了球隊的心態。

賽後接受 NBC 場外採訪時，班切羅在向頭號種子活塞隊講話時強調了尊重和信心。

「我們對那邊的人很尊重，但我們知道自己的表現如何。我們知道更衣室裡有什麼，所以我們不害怕他們，但我們只是得到了很多尊重，我們必須在周一帶來它。”

奧蘭多的表現支持了這個做法。班加羅爾拿下25分、12個籃板和9次助攻，幾乎三雙。他還在 38 分鐘內貢獻了 3 次搶斷和 2 次蓋帽。儘管投籃17投6中，三分球5投2中，他仍然保持著高效的罰球命中率，14投11中。

“我們非常尊重那裡的那些人，但我們知道自己的表現……我們不害怕他們。”

保羅·班切羅 (Paolo Banchero) 在魔術隊第三場戰勝活塞隊後 😳
pic.twitter.com/MzqllJiSEA

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 2026 年 4 月 25 日

保羅·班加羅爾帶領魔術隊擊敗活塞隊，系列賽以2-1領先

這場勝利標誌著對底特律隊的重大回應，底特律隊以 60 場常規賽勝利和頭號種子進入系列賽。奧蘭多隊控制了下半場的關鍵時刻，利用防守壓力和平衡得分來維持最後的分差。

透過三場比賽，魔術隊展示了與底特律活塞隊的身體素質相匹配的能力，同時透過班加羅爾的組織和內線表現產生穩定的進攻。他在第三場比賽中的全面影響凸顯了奧蘭多面對更強大的對手時的信心。

該系列賽現在轉向關鍵的第四場比賽，定於東部時間週一晚上 8:00 在 KIA 中心舉行，NBC 和 Peacock 都會進行報導。奧蘭多有機會自 2010 年以來首次以一勝之差晉級季後賽，而底特律則希望扳平系列並重獲動力。

With the third game of the series, the Montreal Canadiens now hold a 2–1 lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning.

It’s still very early in the series, and things can change quickly, but the fact that the Canadians have the advantage in first place is rather encouraging, as they are clearly the underdogs in the series.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the factors that have helped the Canadiens take the lead in the series.

Quality Scoring Possibilities

The Lightning have controlled the majority of shots at 5v5, shooting 55.4%. However, it is the Montreal Canadiens who have managed to create the most risky scoring opportunities.

And it’s not even a relatively close contest.

In three games, the Canadiens have made 24 high-danger shots, while allowing the Lightning to take just eight. This means hubs has taken control 75% high quality shots Across the series, that isn’t just a modest gain, it marks a major lead in an important statistical category.

To make matters more interesting, the Habs allowed the Lightning to generate a total of two quality scoring chances in Games 1 and 3 combined.

This is coming from a team that ranked 27th in the league in high-danger scoring chances throughout the regular season with a 46.4% share.

Secondary and Tertiary Scoring

With Juraj Slajkowski’s powerplay hat trick in the rearview mirror, it has become clear that the first line is having difficulty generating much aggression at 5v5.

Even at the Bell Centre, where head coach Martin St-Louis controlled the matchup, Montreal’s first line barely broke even in shot shares.

Given that Slafkowski, Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield carried much of the load during the regular season, it’s fair to say the rest of the team will have to make up for the lack of goals at 5v5 in the playoffs, but that’s easier said than done.

Heading into Friday’s game, only Josh Anderson (2) managed to find the back of the net at 5v5, making goals from Alexandre Texier, Kirby Dach and Lane Hutson very important from a roster construction standpoint, giving the first line a little more time to work out their issues.

Kirby Dach tied the game after Arbor Zekaj kept the game alive.

2-2 #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/AqPB3WOkTX

– Montreal Hockey Now (@MTLhockeynow) 25 April 2026

third pair

When evaluating defense personnel, it is always important to acknowledge that use yields results.

An easier assignment, such as playing on the third pairing, makes life easier on the depth blueliner.

However, Arbor Czekaj and Jaden Struble are not only playing well on the third pairing, but they are also effective physically, and when it comes to keeping the puck away from Jacob Dobbs as much as possible.

To put a fine point on the excellence of Czekaj and Struble, they lead the entire NHL in expected goal share. Xhekaj अभी तक 5v5 के मुकाबले एक उच्च-खतरे वाले स्कोरिंग मौके के लिए बर्फ पर नहीं है, एक अनुस्मारक कि लगातार उपयोग से उन खिलाड़ियों के लिए महान चीजें हो सकती हैं जो NHL में अपनी स्थिरता खोजने का प्रयास कर रहे हैं।

Sure, they face lower quality competition than most, but if it were that easy to produce 80 xGF% on the third pairing, we’d see it more often around the league.

The reality is that few, if any other pairings have managed to control the same percentage of shots, goals, scoring chances and expected goals as Czekaj and Struble.

All Montreal Canadiens stats are 5v5, via Natural Stat Trick, unless otherwise noted.

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

The 2026 NFL Draft has ended and while it’s technically too early to declare which teams performed best before these players take the field, it’s always a fun exercise. It’s even more interesting this year because the 2026 draft class was not viewed as particularly strong.

Let’s quickly take a look at our list of the best 2026 NFL Draft classes.

New York Giants

When you have a pair of top-10 selections, it certainly helps to be recognized as one of the best classes from the 2026 NFL Draft. Of course, this came at the cost of the New York Giants trading All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. That said, what happened in Round 1 justified it. Arvell Reese was arguably a top-three prospect in this class, and he is a more well-rounded off-ball linebacker than the Giants’ previous first-round selection Abdul Carter. New York is getting someone with an All-Pro ceiling, and even a 90th percentile result is a perennial Pro Bowl selection who can make an impact on all three downs. With the 10th overall pick, the Giants upgraded their offensive line with Francis Mauigoa. He can be an excellent starter at guard, and by kicking him inside, his timeline to becoming an above average player is accelerated.

We also really liked what New York did the other day. Colton Hood was a marginal talent in the first round, and the Giants took him with the 37th overall pick. He projects to be a quality No. 2 cornerback for a long time, and we’re especially excited to see how defensive coordinator Denard Wilson maximizes his instincts and press-man ability. To the Giants’ credit, they also found a nice complementary receiver to Malik Nabors in Notre Dame’s Malachi Fields (74th overall). He’s not a great athlete, but what matters is he’s 6 feet 4 inches tall, with a big catch radius and the ability to fight through contact. There’s a very good chance that New York came out with four starters, two on each side of the ball. This is a victory.

RELATED: Highlights from Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft

Baltimore Ravens

It’s safe to say that the Baltimore Ravens are happy that the Max Crosby trade just fell through (on their own account). Holding the 14th overall pick, the front office desperately needed help on the interior offensive line with Penn State’s Olivavega Ioane. Using a first-round pick on guard isn’t a “sexy” option, but he is one of the safest prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class with a high chance of becoming an above-average starter for the Ravens.

On Day 2, some good luck occurred for Baltimore when leading tackle Zion Young slipped to 45th overall. A consensus top-40 prospect, Young offers the length-strength-intangibility combo that coaches love in an edge rusher. He can help establish the edge against the run immediately, and he has a long-term path to becoming a very effective three-down player. At No. 80 overall, Baltimore handed Lamar Jackson a pass-catching magnet in 6-foot-4 receiver Ja’Coby Lane. He’ll never be great at getting away from the defense, but the Ravens offense really needed someone who could come up with contested catches and make an impact inside the red zone. To complete that selection, Baltimore added receiver Elijah Sarratt on Day 3 (115th overall). The former Indiana standout isn’t a great athlete, but he knows how to use his 6-foot-2 body to beat corners and get his hands on the football. After a difficult free-agency period, Baltimore hit it out of the park with this draft.

READ MORE: Fantasy football analysis from Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft

New York Jets

What a strange world we live in where both the Giants and New York Jets are listed among the best 2026 NFL Draft classes. It certainly helps that having three first-round picks is the result of a teardown, but it really feels like the Jets front office has made very good connections with all three swings. David Bailey offers a Pro Bowl ceiling, and he could be even more impressive given the additional changes New York has already made to its front seven this offseason. The Jets then landed their top-rated pass-catcher in Kenyon Saadiq, whose athleticism and hands gave him a chance to become one of the five best tight ends in the NFL. Rounding out Round 1, New York selected wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. There are legitimate similarities to Deebo Samuel, at least in some of the ways he can be used and what he does as a receiver with the football in his hands.

The impact on cornerback D’Angelo Ponds is obvious: He’s 5 feet 8 inches tall. It is also undisputed that if he had been 5 feet 11 inches tall he would have been in the top 20. Ponds is a very good athlete with a high football IQ and tenacity that head coach Aaron Glenn will love. New York has done a really great job retooling their defense this season, and this draft class has shown a huge commitment to building a better supporting cast for the franchise quarterback heading into the 2027 NFL Draft.

RELATED: Winners, losers from Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft

cleveland browns

If we were ranking the best 2026 NFL Draft classes, the Cleveland Browns might be in the No. 1 spot. Landing a franchise quarterback was not possible, so general manager Andrew Berry focused on building the infrastructure for his future face of the franchise. Spencer Fano will immediately become a plug-and-play starter at left tackle for the Browns, which is another step toward dismantling last season’s disastrous offensive line. Cleveland then used their next two picks on Casey Concepcion (24th overall) and Denzel Boston (39th overall), two receivers whose games complement each other perfectly. An apt comparison for this duo is the skill sets that Jaylen Waddle and Courtland Sutton bring to the Denver Broncos’ passing game.

This is already a strong start to the draft. Cleveland then got draft-day steal Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a first-round talent at safety who inexplicably fell to 58th overall. He can fly all the way down to attack anything in sight, and as a rookie he will play quite a few games inside the box. Berry then added more depth to the offensive line, grabbing swing tackle Austin Barber (86th overall) and interior lineman Parker Brailsford. This feels like an A-minus class for the Browns.

RELATED: Winners, losers from Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft

kansas city chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs faced some skepticism for their decision to trade FLR All-American cornerback Mansur Delaney. In our view, you should be prepared to pay a little more to make sure you get a player you think can be a star. Delaney, the top cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft class, could be a true No. 1 corner and given Steve Spagnuolo’s track record of developing defensive backs, he could be a lockdown perimeter defender. Obviously, given Trent McDuffie’s limitations playing on the boundary, Kansas City may be better off moving forward with this change.

In addition to that selection, Kansas City’s subsequent first-round selection of defensive tackle Peter Woods could yield massive returns a few years from now. He was a lot more show than substance at Clemson, but those peak moments were the type of performances you only see in top-10 prospects. He will also get guidance from Chris Jones. Smartly, the Chiefs continued to prioritize their defense with the selections of Mason Thomas (40th overall pick) and Jadon Canady. Thomas is on the small side as an edge rusher, but a great defensive coordinator can find ways to take advantage of his get-off, strength, motor and understanding of how to win with leverage. Kansas. As for Kennedy, it’s not hard to see him developing as a rookie for the Chiefs. The Chiefs draft class should be vastly improved defensively.

buffalo bill

Coming into the 2026 NFL Draft, there was a lot of talk about this year’s class not being top-heavy, but it did have some depth in terms of role players and upside. The Buffalo Bills had limited chances to take some of those risks until Brandon Beane was traded out of Round 1 altogether. The strategy was successful and Buffalo was well prepared for both the next season and the future.

With their top pick (35th overall), Buffalo made TJ Parker, a great player who would have been a reasonable selection 15 picks earlier. Late in the second round, Beane brought in cornerback Davison Igbinosun, whose length-athleticism combo is perfect for molding into a CB2. While he’s a project that needs to be cleaned up on penalties and footwork, Bills defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard is a great teacher.

On Day 3, the Bills coaching staff landed a new project offensive lineman in Jude Bourrie (102nd selection overall), who could be a swing tackle and develop into a future starter. Skylar Bell, a 5-foot-11 receiver from UConn, bears some resemblance to Khalil Shakir and projects as a useful No. 3 receiver. Buffalo then got more good value with its later picks, TCU linebacker Caleb Elarms-Orr and safety Jalon Kilgore. While there is a greater chance that they will not be successful and have a short NFL career, they also offer an extremely high ceiling.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

奧蘭多魔術隊迄今為止在對陣頭號種子底特律活塞隊的首輪系列賽中表現出色。他們在附加賽中擊敗夏洛特黃蜂隊進入季後賽，並進入第三場對陣底特律活塞隊，系列賽戰成1-1平手。

好吧，德斯蒙德貝恩繼續在球場兩端脫穎而出。貝恩在第三場比賽中似乎進步了一個檔次。根據 ClutchPoints 在 X 上的一篇帖子，在第三節還剩 2 分鐘多的時候，他拿下 20 分，三分球區打出 6 投 6 中，全場 13 投 7 中，幫助奧蘭多隊不斷地控球。

第一節打出26-26後，奧蘭多第二節打出35-26的回應，此後繼續保持領先（82-74）。保羅·班加羅爾 (Paolo Banchero) 和賈倫·薩格斯 (Jalen Suggs) 各得 15 分，弗朗茨·瓦格納 (Franz Wagner) 11 分，小溫德爾·卡特 (Wendell Carter Jr.) 9 分。

由於射手數量眾多，奧蘭多隊繼續讓事情變得困難。第一場比賽，先發五人得分全部上雙，其中班加羅爾拿下23分，幫助球隊以112-101獲勝。傑倫·薩格斯 (Jalen Suggs) 拿下全場最低分，只有 16 分。

儘管活塞隊是投籃更好的球隊，但第三場比賽仍然延續著同樣的趨勢。他們的整體效率為 44.3%，而奧蘭多的效率為 40.3%。

然而，在貝恩的帶領下，魔術隊在三分線外的投籃命中率更高，迄今為止，他們的 26 次出手命中了 11 次，命中率為 42.3%。魔術隊也獲得了更多的罰球機會，到目前為止為 23/29，儘管底特律的罰球次數更多。

到目前為止，他們的 17 次射門中有 14 次得分。凱德·坎寧安 (Cade Cunningham) 拿下 13 分，領先底特律活塞隊，但他的投籃命中率僅為 5 投 16 中，六次三分出手僅命中兩球。

第三節結束時，奧蘭多隊以87-79領先，將領先優勢擴大一分（26-25），為比賽的最後階段奠定了基礎。魔術隊在主場表現出色，他們決心贏得第二場勝利。

In a surprising development, the 8th-seeded Orlando Magic continued their stellar performance to take a 2-1 series lead against the No. 1-seeded Detroit Pistons. The Magic got an excellent performance from Paolo Banchero with a near triple-double. The Pistons—who had never really been challenged in the Eastern Conference all year—were now firmly on their heels.

Sunny Mehta already has the option to pick up the phone and negotiate a potential New Jersey Devils trade and improve his top six.

After failing to make the playoffs for the 10th consecutive season, the Detroit Red Wings are now the longest-serving team to miss the postseason after the Buffalo Sabers punched their ticket this spring.

Expressing his disappointment with Steve Yzerman declaring a disappointing season, he described the Red Wings as “needing better players” and said that no one in the organization is untouched.

“We will certainly look at any ways we can improve our team to take the next step,” Yzerman said. “Definitely ready to do that. We’re absolutely ready to do that.”

While it’s unclear what direction Detroit’s GM will choose to go this summer, the Red Wings certainly have some players that would benefit New Jersey in a potential Devils trade.

In his introductory press conference, Mehta explained that he wanted to “make smart, objective and educated decisions… again and again, again and again.”

He later clarified that although he has a background in analytics as a former professional poker player, stock trader, and NHL executive, he finds value in blending analytics with his hockey knowledge.

“The reason I ever cared about analytics, statistical probability, is because it helped me win. It helped me win in poker. It helped me win on the trading floor, and it helped me win in hockey. And that’s why I care about it.

“And blending, of course, is important in the same way as in poker it’s not just the numbers. You have to get a feel for your opponent. You have to understand the subjectivity of bluffing. And, you have to understand psychology. And the same is true in trading, right? You have to have a feel for the markets. You have to understand how news affects things, how subjectivity and human emotions affect things.”

So, who can the Devils target in Detroit to improve their roster?

alex debrincat

Who is better than Alex DeBrincat for goals?

DeBrincat is the Red Wings’ leading goal scorer over the past two seasons, with 41 and 39 goals respectively. 2025-26 was the third time in the 28-year-old’s nine-year career that he reached or surpassed the 40-goal mark. He has also scored more than 30 goals in five seasons in his career.

DeBrincat scores in a lot of different ways. He can finish off the rush, shoot from a different zone on offense, he scored 15 power play goals last season, and added eight assists on the man advantage.

DeBrincat is coming off a career-best 85-point season, which will certainly increase his trade value.

However, the Devils have assets to deal with.

DeBrincat – a regular running-back with Patrick Kane – would ultimately be a strong fit next to Devils stars Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt to complete that line.

He has one year remaining on his contract in 2026-27 with $7.875 million before a new contract becomes due next summer.

The Devils need to score more goals and that’s what DeBrincat does best.

lucas raymond

If the Devils want a younger option, Mehta could target Lucas Raymond.

One of the criticisms of Raymond in 2025–26 was that he needed to shoot more. Nevertheless, he scored 25 goals on 173 shots – a shooting percentage of 14.5%.

In four of Raymond’s five seasons in the NHL, he has scored 20 or more goals. In 2023–24, Raymond scored a career-high 31 goals, and the following season scored a career-high 80 points.

Raymond is a skilled all-around forward who should be spending a little more time in the prime years of his career at the age of 24.

On the downside, Raymond was trusted as the driver of his line, rather than being a complimentary piece next to Hughes or Bratt.

The Devils have assets to deal with, their first-round selection Simon Nemec and perhaps one of their young rising forward players, Lenny Haminaho.

Raymond is heading into a third, very favorable eight-year contract with a cap hit of $8.075 million.

Hey, David Blitzer gave Mehta his blessing to spend the cap. He can also swing for the fences.

James is the fully certified New Jersey Devils beat reporter for New Jersey Hockey Now on SportsNote and … More about James Nicholls

The NBA world is currently focused on the early rounds of the playoffs, but we’re only a month away from the start of the offseason and some major decisions will be made for a group of stars heading into the final year of their contracts.

Since free agency is no longer as attractive as it used to be, there are few people who will test the open market. Veterans like Andrew Wiggins ($30 million), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($21 million), and Draymond Green ($27 million) aren’t going anywhere.

However, others could certainly threaten to make a move in free agency to get even more paydays from their current teams. With that in mind, let’s take a look at eight NBA stars who are sure to opt out of their current contracts in the coming weeks.

james harden

Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden is one of the league’s premier mercenaries. He has no loyalty to any team and that is not going to change. While he is owed $42 million next season, it would be surprising if he joined and there have already been early reports that he intends to opt out.

Just months shy of his 37th birthday, the 11-time All-Star could take an annual salary cut in favor of a more guaranteed season.

Austin Reeves

Austin Reeves is having a career year at the perfect time. The Los Angeles Lakers veteran has emerged as a future All-Star talent and core member of the roster. There’s no way he’ll play for just under $15 million next season. He’s highly unlikely to leave LA, but he’ll likely get a huge pay raise this summer.

Fred VanVleet

Fred VanVleet is in an interesting situation. He took a pay cut to return to the Houston Rockets and is set to make $25 million next season. The veteran guard is also recovering from a torn ACL. A case can be made for him to be included next season. However, the Rockets have been in a mess this year and VanVleet is likely being used in a summer trade, considering he could opt out of the remainder of the year.

al horford

Al Horford’s decision to sign with the Golden State Warriors last summer proved to be the wrong one. They were expected to be title contenders, and injuries to their top stars completely derailed those plans. Expect him to opt to return east, either retiring with the Boston Celtics or finishing his career where it started, the Atlanta Hawks.

Kevin Porter Jr.

After being one of the few good things to happen for the Milwaukee Bucks in 2025-26, Kevin Porter Jr. is set to opt out of the $5 million he earned next season. Since very few stars are expected to really test the market, the six-year veteran will be one of the top players available and is set to get a very nice pay rise this summer.

deandre ayton

When the Lakers signed Deandre Ayton to a two-year deal with an opt-out last summer, everyone knew he would use it. With so few reliable veterans in the game, and after staying healthy throughout the season, the eight-year veteran will surely opt to ask for a raise on the $8 million he will make next season.

bradley beal

Despite trying to bounce back from a broken hip and having a few bad seasons, you can bet Bradley Beal thinks he’s still worth more than the $5 million he’ll make with the Los Angeles Clippers next year. Plus, it looks like LA is in the early stages of a rebuild, and the 14-year vet won’t want to deal with that.

trey young

There are two certain things in the NBA offseason. Trae Young will opt out of the approximately $49 million he is owed next season. But he will do so in order to get a new long-term deal from his new team, the Washington Wizards. There is an outside chance that he may change his mind and test his value in the open market. But Washington is unlikely to get a better offer than what any other team will offer.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

伊梅·烏多卡 (Ime Udoka) 提供了凱文·杜蘭特 (Kevin Durant) 的重要傷情最新消息，休士頓火箭隊在第四場比賽之前的首輪系列賽中以 3-0 輸給洛杉磯湖人隊。

杜蘭特只參加了季後賽系列賽的第二場比賽，因傷缺席了第一場和第三場比賽。這給火箭隊的進攻造成了很大的漏洞，而火箭隊依賴杜蘭特作為他們最可靠的得分手。這導致 Alperen Sengun、Amen Thompson 和 Jabari Smith Jr. 承擔了更多責任。

據記者凡妮莎理查森報道，烏多卡在球隊週六的新聞發布會上向媒體發表了講話。主教練注意到這位老牌球星的傷勢恢復取得了進展。

「伊姆烏多卡說凱文杜蘭特正在接受腳踝的全天候治療。烏多卡說昨晚比賽期間，杜蘭特正在接受治療，其中包括在水下跑步機上跑步，」理查森寫道。

在沒有凱文杜蘭特的情況下，火箭隊如何與湖人隊進行第三場比賽

伊梅·烏多卡（Ime Udoka）希望凱文·杜蘭特（Kevin Durant）能在第四場比賽中回歸。火箭隊的賽季已經岌岌可危，他們需要盡可能多的幫助來抵禦湖人隊的淘汰。

投籃準確性和球的移動在整個第三場比賽中發揮了重要作用。湖人隊在這兩方面都取得了勝利，他們的投籃命中率為 48%，其中 41% 為內線投籃，並創造了 28 次助攻。火箭隊的情況就不一樣了，他們只成功了 41% 的機會，其中包括 28% 的三分球命中率，並送出了 21 次助攻。

在這場失利中，休士頓隊有四名球員得分上雙。阿爾佩倫·森貢拿下全隊最高的33分、16個籃板、6次助攻、3次抄截和1次阻攻。他全場27投15中，其中三分線外5投1中，罰球線3投2中。阿門·湯普森拿下26分和11個籃板，小賈巴里·史密斯得到24分和6個籃板，里德·謝潑德得到17分和7次助攻。

火箭隊將在第四場比賽中面對湖人隊時，努力保住賽季活力，避免系列賽被橫掃。比賽將於美國東部時間 4 月 26 日晚上 9:30 舉行。

The action continues in Las Vegas on Saturday night as the UFC presents another edition of UFC Fight Night.

The card is scheduled to take place at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. UFC Fight Night will be headlined by a 140-pound bout as former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling takes on Youssef Zalal. “Funk Master” will look for a solid performance as he continues to move up in the featherweight division. He defeated Brian Ortega via unanimous decision last August. Four of Zalal’s last five wins have come by submission.

Below, you can see all the UFC Fight Night results and fight-ending highlights.

UFC Fight Night results (preliminaries)

Talita Alencar (+200) vs. Julia Polastri (-235)

Max Griffin (+110) vs. Victor Valenzuela (-130)

Francis Marshall (-525) vs. Lucas Brennan (+410)

Jafel Filho (-650) vs. Cody Durden (+475)

Mayra Bueno Silva (+350) vs. Michelle Montague (-450)

Jackson McVey (-180) vs. Cedrics Dumas (+155)

Rodolfo Vieira (-330) vs. Eric McConnico (+270)

UFC Fight Night Results (Main Card)

Marcus Buchecha (-150) vs. Ryan Spann (+130)

Montel Jackson (-190) vs. Raoni Barcelos (+165)

Davie Grant (-123) vs. Adrian Luna Martinetti (+103)

Rafa Garcia (-105) vs. Alexander Hernandez (-115)

Norma Dumont (-190) vs. Jocelyn Edwards (+165)

Aljamain Sterling (+120) vs. Youssef Zalal (-140)

Born and raised in New York City, Jimmy Robles received a journalism degree from Queens College in 2017. Before… More About Jimmy Robles

The NBA world is currently focused on the early rounds of the playoffs, but we’re only a month away from the start of the offseason and some major decisions will be made for a group of stars heading into the final year of their contracts.

Since free agency is no longer as attractive as it used to be, there are few people who will test the open market. Veterans like Andrew Wiggins ($30 million), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($21 million), and Draymond Green ($27 million) aren’t going anywhere.

However, others may certainly threaten to make a move in free agency to get even more paydays from their current teams. With that in mind, let’s take a look at eight NBA stars who are sure to opt out of their current contracts in the coming weeks.

james harden

Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden is one of the league’s premier mercenaries. He has no loyalty to any team and that is not going to change. While he is owed $42 million next season, it would be surprising if he joined and there have already been early reports that he intends to opt out.

Just months shy of his 37th birthday, the 11-time All-Star could take an annual salary cut in favor of a more guaranteed season.

Austin Reeves

Austin Reeves is having a career year at the perfect time. The Los Angeles Lakers veteran has emerged as a future All-Star talent and core member of the roster. There’s no way he’ll play for just under $15 million next season. He’s highly unlikely to leave LA, but he’ll likely get a huge pay raise this summer.

Fred VanVleet

Fred VanVleet is in an interesting situation. He took a pay cut to return to the Houston Rockets and is set to make $25 million next season. The veteran guard is also recovering from a torn ACL. A case can be made for him to be included next season. However, the Rockets have been in a mess this year and VanVleet is likely being used in a summer trade, considering he could opt out of the remainder of the year.

al horford

Al Horford’s decision to sign with the Golden State Warriors last summer proved to be the wrong one. They were expected to be title contenders, and injuries to their top stars completely derailed those plans. Expect him to opt to return east, either retiring with the Boston Celtics or finishing his career where it started, the Atlanta Hawks.

Kevin Porter Jr.

After being one of the few good things to happen for the Milwaukee Bucks in 2025-26, Kevin Porter Jr. is set to opt out of the $5 million he earned next season. Since very few stars are expected to really test the market, the six-year veteran will be one of the top players available and is set to get a very nice pay rise this summer.

deandre ayton

When the Lakers signed Deandre Ayton to a two-year deal with an opt-out last summer, everyone knew he would use it. With so few reliable veterans in the game, and after staying healthy throughout the season, the eight-year veteran will surely opt to ask for a raise on the $8 million he will make next season.

bradley beal

Despite trying to bounce back from a broken hip and having a few bad seasons, you can bet Bradley Beal thinks he’s still worth more than the $5 million he’ll make with the Los Angeles Clippers next year. Plus, it looks like LA is in the early stages of a rebuild, and the 14-year vet won’t want to deal with that.

trey young

There are two certain things in the NBA offseason. Trae Young will opt out of the approximately $49 million he is owed next season. But he will do so in order to get a new long-term deal from his new team, the Washington Wizards. There is an outside chance that he may change his mind and test his value in the open market. But he is unlikely to receive a better offer from Washington than any other team.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

It’s quite clear that the Montreal Canadiens are dealing with a special strategy from the Tampa Bay Lightning in their first-round series.

Whether it’s taunting goaltenders, running at players from behind, or engaging in shenanigans after every whistle, the Lightning have embraced the idea that they are the villains in this series.

And yet, when evaluating the numbers at 5v5, the Canadiens have actually had the most hits, and by a good margin too.

The Habs have averaged 37 hits per game, good for 7th out of 16 playoff teams. The Lightning, on the other hand, have only had 33 hits per game, the fourth-lowest result in the NHL.

Arbor Zekaj referred to himself as a “villain” vs. the Habs on the Tampa Bay Lightning today:

“If they want to think that way, fine. We’re here. We’re ready for whatever they offer us.” pic.twitter.com/1cktWPcG71

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 23 April 2026

Most of the heavy lifting has been done by Arbor Zekaj, who currently ranks fifth in the NHL with 17 hits. He joined Josh Anderson, who had 13 hits, as the only Canadiens players to take 10 or more body checks in the series.

And yet, the wolf pack mentality clearly exists. Every Canadiens player, including Oliver Kapanen, has managed to put up at least one hit against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Habs coach Marty St. Louis on the Lightning’s intimidation tactics today:

“We’ve talked about it. Did we look scared? I don’t think so. If they want to play that game, we’re able to play that game. We’re equipped to do it.” pic.twitter.com/wdH47yGu2X

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 23 April 2026

You could argue that while the Bolts are so focused on trying to take hubs out of their game, they’re forgetting to focus on the thing that’s most important: creating scoring chances.

The Canadiens have controlled 75% of high-danger scoring opportunities at 5v5, meaning they are not only killing the Lightning, but they are also creating the lion’s share of quality shots.

Montreal Canadiens Brass Tacks

It has something to do with the matchups, which has worked to the Canadiens’ advantage.

Reporter: “Are you still sick and tired of Scott Sabourin?”

Josh Anderson: “I just didn’t pay attention to him tonight. I didn’t see him on the ice much…” pic.twitter.com/j0PMD9lghC

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 25 April 2026

For the record, John Cooper kept Scott Sabourin on the ice for nine minutes against Anderson. At the time, Anderson’s expected goal share was above 90%. Playing away from Sabourin, his xGF% dropped to 43.8%.

In other words, having Sabourin on the ice alongside Andersen is actively hurting the chances of victory for Tampa Bay, which is desperate to win a pyrrhic physical contest.

It’s an odd strategy from a coach with as much experience as Cooper, especially since the Lightning were the clear favorites in the series.

That doesn’t mean the Habs have avoided taking the bait at every opportunity, but they’ve done a great job focusing on the big picture while their opponents focus on the dirty play.

Mark has been covering the Habs for over a decade. He previously worked for the Journal Metro, The Athletic, The… More about Mark Dumont

布莱顿霍夫阿尔比恩 在观看维森特·皮萨罗的比赛时，他们的球探之旅可能已经安排得恰到好处，但最新的更新表明，英超球队不再是这位中场球员唯一明确的出路。

布莱顿追踪罗萨里奥中央球员的传闻已经很强烈， 球探出席最近的比赛。现在，阿根廷的最新评论让我们更清楚地了解了未来几个月事态的发展。

“如果他不去英国……”

谈到 体育运动记者罗德里戈·维拉证实了英超联赛对皮萨罗的关注日益增加，其中包括布莱顿的存在。

他解释说： “这里所说的，我想那里也流传着这样的信息，那就是英格兰足坛一直在关注他，特别是布莱顿。上一场比赛甚至还有球探。”

这与之前的说法相符，但维拉随后对这位中场球员的未来进行了更具启发性的更新，从而推动了故事的发展。

“我的信息是，在今年年中，如果这件事没有进展，他仍然会离开罗萨里奥中央并前往阿根廷足球的一家大俱乐部。”

在进一步追问下，他暗示了所涉及俱乐部的级别。

“如果他不去英格兰，他可以转会到阿根廷足球界的一家大俱乐部……有条纹，” 他补充道。这在阿根廷是一个笑话，因为该国两个最大的俱乐部——博卡青年队和河床队——传统上在他们的球衣上有条纹。

决策点临近

所以布莱顿对皮萨罗的兴趣是真实的，他们已经采取了派遣球探的措施。

同时，还有一个明确的后备选项。在阿根廷境内转会到一家更大的俱乐部仍然代表着他职业生涯的进步，并可能使他的身价不断上升。

对于布莱顿来说，这稍微改变了动态。采取行动的窗口可能不会持续太久，特别是如果离家较近的俱乐部决定先采取行动的话。

要么英超机会成为现实，要么皮萨罗采取不同的路线——这条路线仍可能让他稍后重新回到布莱顿的视线中，但条件却截然不同。

到目前為止，洛杉磯湖人隊在季後賽中沒有奧斯汀·裡維斯參加比賽，因為他在季後賽開始前遭受了左斜肌拉傷。隨著季後賽的進行，總教練 JJ 雷迪克分享了李維斯重返賽場必須採取的步驟。

根據 ESPN 的戴夫麥克梅納明報道，雷迪克聲稱這位 27 歲的後衛正在訓練中進行一些投籃，作為他回歸過程的一部分。隨著李維斯的恢復，湖人隊將正式更新李維斯在第四場比賽中的狀態。

「在與記者的電話會議上，湖人隊主教練 JJ 雷迪克表示奧斯汀·裡維斯今天下午將在球場投籃，」麥克梅納明報道。 「湖人隊將在下午 5 點更新里維斯第四場比賽的狀態 [PST]」。

裡維斯最初是在 4 月 2 日湖人隊以 139-96 輸給俄克拉荷馬城雷霆隊的比賽中遭受斜傷。他的康復時間為四到六週。但考慮到現在是季後賽，這位效力五年的老將可能會嘗試早點回歸，帶傷打球。

奧斯汀·裡維斯常規賽只打了 51 場比賽，這是他單季出場次數最少的。儘管如此，當他在場上時，他還是湖人隊的關鍵貢獻者之一，場均貢獻23.3分（生涯新高）、4.7個籃板（生涯新高）和5.5次助攻，投籃命中率49.0%（生涯新高），三分線外命中率36.0%。

湖人隊定於週日在第四場比賽中迎戰火箭隊。 JJ 雷迪克和該組織將於美國東部時間週六晚上 8 點提供有關里夫斯狀態的官方更新。

Things are looking pretty bad for the New York Knicks right now. They currently trail the series against the Atlanta Hawks 2-1 and will play again at State Farm Arena for Game 4 on Saturday.

They really need to win this game if they want to keep the series going. If they lose another game then it will be very difficult for them to make a comeback in the series.

The series has unfolded completely differently than anyone in New York had expected. The Knicks won Game 1 but lost Games 2 and 3 by a combined two points, with both losses decided by the final possession.

In Game 3, the Hawks again answered in the fourth quarter, with CJ McCollum and Jonathan Kuminga scoring points. New York had 18 turnovers and made only 28.6% of their shots from three-point range.

A 3-1 series loss against the Hawks would be a disaster for a team built to go deep. Mike Brown knows this. This is what every Knicks fan is watching. Here are three bold predictions for Game 4.

Prediction 1: Jalen Brunson scores over 25 and plays like himself again

Brunson has scored 26, 29 and 28 points in back-to-back games in this series, so the points have clearly been up. But unfortunately, he has also been responsible for every misstep of late. In Game 3, not only did he miss a three-pointer in the air with 16 seconds remaining, but he turned the ball over on the last play as the Knicks were unable to even attempt a shot.

This is a game where Brunson needs to look like himself from start to finish, not just in detail. Playoff Brunson is a different player. Last year, before the Knicks took on the Pacers, he was one of the best closers in the league, and there’s no reason why that player couldn’t show up in Game 4.

Brunson drops at least 25 and makes the right play when the game is on the line.

Prediction 2: Mikal Bridges struggles again and sees fewer minutes

Bridges had no points in Game 3, going 0-for-3 with one rebound and two assists in 21 minutes. In four-quarter periods in Games 2 and 3, they had zero field goals and six total turnovers.

Mike Brown took him out in the third quarter and kept him on the bench for most of the second half.

Miles McBride got 31 minutes while Bridges only got 21 minutes, and the Knicks were clearly more effective with that smaller lineup. Since Bridges is having trouble in this matchup, it’s hard to imagine Brown falling back on him in heavy moments when McBride is giving him more on the floor.

Prediction: Bridges plays less than 25 minutes again, and McBride handles the bulk of those extra possessions.

Prediction 3: Karl-Anthony Towns posts a double-double and stays on the floor

Towns had 21 points and 17 rebounds in Game 3, and he was certainly the best big man on the floor all night. The issue is that the Knicks are finding it difficult to utilize him in the most important moments; In fact, the final play went to Brunson.

As a small team, the Hawks and Towns demonstrated very clearly what this mismatch will look like when it comes to offense.

The Browns should keep Towns on the court for a full 40 minutes instead of just longer, because with the production from both Towns and Brunson, New York is a completely different team.

If these three things happen, the Knicks may very well win.

Prediction: Towns gets at least 22 points and 11 rebounds, and New York wins 110-102 to tie the series 2-2.

Jayesh Pagar is currently pursuing Sports Journalism from London School of Journalism and has four years of experience… More about Jayesh Pagar