Could the San Antonio Spurs have a next-generation version of the “Twin Towers” next season? ESPN’s new NBA mock draft opens the door to that possibility.

On Monday night, the Spurs took a big step closer to reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014 when they won Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. With Victor Wembanyama, arguably the best player in the NBA today, San Antonio has a very real chance to win the franchise’s sixth championship next month.

Still, while almost all of the organization’s attention is on the West Finals, they must also look forward to June’s NBA Draft. Well, when it comes to their selection at 20th overall, ESPN’s Jeremy Wu predicts the Spurs will select Kentucky big man Jaden Quaintance.

Quaintance is a risky selection as he played only four games in his first season with the Wildcats after suffering a serious knee injury, including a torn ACL. Wu reported, “Although he looked explosive and in good shape at his Pro Day, many NBA observers in the stands noticed he was favoring his right foot.”

Could Wembanyama and Quantance be ‘Twin Towers’ 2.0 for Spurs?

If he gets a clean bill of health, Wu notes that the 6-foot-10 tall man could help form a very nasty defensive combo with Vembanyama (7 feet 5 inches).

If Quaintance can live up to his potential, which will take some time as he is still only a teenager, he and the French phenom could form one of the greatest duos in Spurs history, a new version of the “Twin Towers”. That duo paired Hall of Famers Tim Duncan and David Robinson for three seasons from 2000–2003, making the playoffs each season and winning the championship the third year running.

Robinson, 7-foot-1, and Duncan, 6-foot-11, were a dominant front-court duo due to their blend of skill, athleticism and toughness. Vembanyama and Quaintance are a little different, but they can stick together for a long time and develop into an effective duo on defense.

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

There was a lot of excitement in the football world as the 2026 NFL schedule was released on Thursday, and we finally know when and where all 32 teams will play their games.

The New York Giants will be one of the most fascinating stories of the NFL season, as many think the team could go 4-13 in the playoffs in 2026 under head coach John Harbaugh and second-year quarterback Jackson Dart.

But making the postseason won’t be easy, as Big Blue plays six teams that made the playoffs last season and had a tough final month of the season.

There are less than four months to go until the season starts, and here are our early game-by-game predictions.

RELATED: 3 options for the New York Giants if Malik Nabors isn’t ready for Week 1

The last time New York opened the season at home against Dallas was in 2023, and they lost 40–0. But this time, things will be different as Big Blue will start the Harbaugh era with a win. W (1-0)

Trying to stop Sean McVay’s offense is always difficult, especially when you’re trying to get used to your new defensive coordinator’s scheme. Matthew Stafford will have to have his way with the secondary as the Giants suffer their first loss of the season against the Rams. L(1-1)

Week 3: Home at Tennessee Titans

The Giants will welcome their former head coach, Brian Daboll, and several of his former teammates to MetLife Stadium. But they won’t be giving him a warm welcome as Jackson Dart would beat out Cam Ward in a battle between two second-year quarterbacks. W (2-1)

Week 4: Home at Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals may be the worst team in the NFC, but New York won’t ignore them. Big Blue would have a great victory and win their second game in a row. W (3-1)

Week 5: @WashingtonCommanders

Amazingly, the Commanders are the only team in the division to have defeated the Giants in each of the last two seasons. Washington would win another close battle in this rivalry. L(3-2)

Week 6: Home at New Orleans Saints

The Giants and Saints both finished last in their divisions last season, but some think they could go from worst to first in 2026. New York is expected to pick up a close win and avenge their 26–14 loss from a season ago. w (4-2)

Week 7: @Houston Texans

With the additional changes made to the offense, the Giants’ offense should be more explosive than it has been in years. Unfortunately, this week they will go up against the Houston Texans’ NFL-best defense. This will be very difficult to overcome and they will lose. L(4-3)

Week 9: @Philadelphia

Playing in Philadelphia has been a nightmare for New York as they haven’t won there since 2013. Despite a valiant effort by the Giants, they would lose again in the “City of Brotherly Love”. L(4-4)

New York ended its losing streak to Washington in just a few weeks as the defense shut down quarterback Jaden Daniels and secured an impressive victory. W (5-4)

Week 11: Home at Jacksonville Jaguars

The Giants are trying to do what the Jacksonville Jaguars did last season in going 4-13 to become division champions. Time will tell if New York will accomplish that feat, but they will win this Sunday. W(6-4)

Week 12: @IndianapolisColts

He may never admit it publicly, but Daniel Jones would love to get revenge on the team that abandoned him. Unfortunately for the veteran quarterback, he would not get revenge on the team that drafted him as Big Blue would win for the third consecutive time. W (7-4)

Week 14: @Seattle Seahawks

Seattle is one of the toughest places to play, as the crowd noise can be deafening. Furthermore, they are defending Super Bowl champions with an impressive defense, and quarterback Sam Darnold’s confidence is at an all-time high. The winners will be victorious in this competition. L(7-6)

Week 15: Home at Cleveland Browns

The Giants would end their losing streak against the Browns thanks to a dominant performance from their defense and big play from their special teams unit. W(8-6)

The Detroit Lions overwhelmed New York’s defense in their 34-27 overtime victory in Week 12 last season. The Giants’ defense would perform better, but the result would be the same with a Lions victory. L(8-7)

Week 17:@Dallas Cowboys

New York has not won in Dallas since Week 1 of the 2016 season, which was Dak Prescott’s NFL debut. Their losing streak in Big D will continue with another disappointing defeat. L(8-8)

Week 18: Home at Philadelphia Eagles

The Giants would finish the 2026 regular season with a win over their division rivals and finish the season with their first winning record since 2022. W(9-8)

RELATED: 2026 NFL Power Rankings: Evaluating the worst, best teams after the NFL Draft

On Saturday, horse racing fans will gather at Laurel Park Race Track to see which competitor will win the second leg of the 2026 Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes. This year’s field includes a deep list of favorites, mystery horses and just one contender from the Kentucky Derby.

But who will win this year’s “Run for the Black-Eyed Susans”? We’d like to answer that with our ranking of the Preakness Stakes horses for casual fans.

14. robusta

Doug O’Neill-trained colt Robusta is one of only three horses competing in the Kentucky Derby, which will also take to the track at Laurel Park on Saturday. However, he is one of the biggest long shots in this year’s race due to his recent form.

Before running in the Derby, Robusta finished seventh at Santa Anita ahead of the competition he faced in Kentucky. He then finished 14th among 19 horses at Churchill Downs. It would be surprising for Robusta to reach the top three.

13. Bull by the horns

The colt Bull By The Horns, owned by Peachtree Stable and Mark Corrado, has had an up-and-down career in his first five races. While he placed first at Florida in his second race in November, he came seventh in the Fourth of Youth in February and finished well behind many Derby horses.

Although he won the 2026 Rushway in March, he has struggled on fast dirt tracks, as he will this weekend.

12. Crupper

After a sixth-place finish to start his career, the Robert Zoellner-trained colt Crupper is on the rise. He has won two of his last three races, including a win at Bathhouse Raw last month. However, the three-year-old is entering the Preakness Stakes as a major underdog due to the weak competition he has met so far.

11. Golden Crown

Three-year-old Corona de Oro has been a solid but unspectacular horse in his first five races. In March, the Dallas Stewart-trained colt earned his first career win. However, last month, he finished behind fellow Preakness competitor The Hell We Did at the 2026 Lexington.

We Do is not a favorite on Saturday, so this bodes well for De Oro’s chances of finishing the show this weekend.

10. talking

After winning on his debut in August last year, the Danny Gargan-trained colt Talkin has fallen short since then. Which also includes finishing ninth at the 2025 Remsen in December.

He got a chance to face Derby and Stakes level competition in his last two starts and peaked with a third-place finish in the Blue Grass last month. That’s why Talkin’ is a big underdog on Saturday.

9. Great White

The John Ennis-trained colt Great White has been all over the map in his first four races. The three-year-old won his debut match in December and the John Battaglia Memorial in February. However, White finished fifth in his other two races, including the Blue Grass in April.

This unpredictability is the main reason why he remained a weak player on Saturday. Furthermore, despite being an impressive specimen, losing his composure minutes before entering the post at Kentucky adds to that unpredictable reputation.

8. Napoleon Solo

After starting his career with consecutive wins including the October 2025 Champagne, Gold Square horse Napoleon Solo has not looked good since. In February, he faced tough competition at the Fountain of Youth and finished fifth.

Then last month, he went head-to-head again in the Preakness and Derby-level contests and again came in fifth. Solo gave bookmakers no reason to think he could be a show option on Saturday.

7. Chip Honcho

At the end of 2025, the Steve Asmussen-trained colt Chip Honcho was looking like a potential contender for this year’s Triple Crown. However, in 2026, he surprisingly struggled in three of his races. While there he finished second in the 2026 Risen Star in February, came fourth in the Lecomte in January, and came fifth in the high-level competition in the Louisiana Derby in March.

6. The Hell We Did

The Todd Fincher-trained colt The Hell We Did is another horse for consideration for risky punters. Although he suffered intermittent problems a few days before the race, he still looked very good in his first four races, taking two second places and two first places. But like Pretty Boy Mia, Saturday will be her chance to prove that she is an elite talent despite little competition so far.

5. Pretty Boy Mia

Jeremiah Englehart-trained horse Pretty Boy Mia is an intriguing underdog for Saturday’s Preakness Stakes. Although he finished fourth at Aqueduct in February, he has been strong in his other three races this year. Which also includes consecutive wins in their last two.

The big question is whether his success is based on his athletic talent or the competition he has faced so far in his career.

4. eyes

Ouseley, a horse trained by D. Whitworth Beckman, received a chance at the 2026 Kentucky Derby after several horses, including Right to Party, were eliminated from the race. Although Ouseley had six championships on his resume, he had no wins to his name.

Nevertheless, to the surprise of many the colt finished third at Kentucky. After that, Occelli’s showing can’t be doubted and should be considered a rock-solid show option this weekend.

3. Incredible

The colt Incredibolt, trained by Riley Mott, has had a checkered career. That’s why he was last in the betting odds for the Kentucky Derby after finishing sixth in the G3 Face off in January. However, he turned heads by winning the Virginia Derby in March, leading some to wonder if he might perform better than expected in the Derby.

He did not do so and finished sixth. However, oddsmakers still rate the colt highly, and he is viewed as one of the favorites in Saturday’s Preakness Stakes.

2. Iron Honor

Elite trainer Chad Brown has one horse in Saturday’s race, and that’s Iron Honor. Honor looked very good in his first two races as he took consecutive first-place finishes to start his career. However, at the Wood Memorial in April, he surprisingly finished seventh. Yet, many believe that they are given a hard time early on and are pushed out of the game.

Nevertheless, the talented colt is the favorite heading into the Preakness.

1. Taj Mahal

Brittany Russell-trained colt Taj Mahal enters the 2026 Preakness Stakes as the top selection for good reason. While the three-year-old only has three races on his resume, he has still performed excellently. 2026 Federico Tesio won all three, including. Castle is a safe win and/or bet to make on a Saturday night, especially under the guidance of a top trainer.

2026 Preakness Stakes Odds and Predictions

Here are the current betting odds for the 2026 Preakness Stakes. This year’s race will take place on May 16 at 6:50 pm ET.

• Krupper 30-1
• robusta 30-1
• Bull by the Horns 30-1
• Gold Crown 30-1
• talking 20-1
• Great White 15-1
• pretty boy mia 15-1
• The Hell We Did 15-1
• Napoleon Solo 8-1
• ocelli 6-1
• Chip Honcho 5-1
• Incredibolt 5-1
• Taj Mahal 5-1
• Iron Honor 9-2

2026 Preakness Stakes Prediction

Heading into the 2026 Preakness Stakes, Iron Honor is a popular choice to win it all. However, we are going with Taj Mahal to take the win as the horse has an elite trainer and has been running very well in recent races.

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

On Saturday night, WWE will return to the ESPN app with the 2026 edition of Backlash. The event, taking place in Tampa, FL, will be headlined by a World Heavyweight Championship match between cousins ​​Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu. And the card will also include the reveal of Dannhausen’s mystery partner for the tag match against Kit Wilson and The Miz.

However, there is another big reveal planned for the event. And that’s an announcement from WWE icon John Cena that will reportedly “shake the foundation of WWE,” according to the future Hall of Famer. Rumors suggest that this club will be related to the launch of WWE. However, it may ultimately get a lot of praise from Tampa fans.

With that in mind, we’re offering five fun speculations about John Cena’s Backlash announcement.

John Cena announces location for WrestleMania 44

WrestleMania 43 is going to take place in Saudi Arabia next year. However, there has been a lot of new speculation on where 44 will be. Recent reports have revealed that Nashville and Ireland are in the running for the event. Considering all the recent news, Cena is likely to announce the location for WrestleMania 44 at Backlash.

John Cena reveals date of 2026 WWE Draft

For years, the annual WWE Draft became a major week on the company calendar. However, last year the event was skipped entirely, and instead, WWE went with the Transfer Portal. With complaints that the product has become a bit stale recently, both Raw and SmackDown really need the roster overhaul that the draft can bring. Fans will welcome the announcement of the 2026 WWE Draft at Backlash.

John Cena announces WWE has purchased the rights to Lucha Underground

There has been a lot of speculation among fans for the past few years regarding the return of Lucha Underground. The brand, which ran for four years from 2014 to 2018, still has a huge number of supporters. Especially since it played a major role in the careers of many current and former WWE stars.

It would be a lot of fun if Cena announced that WWE has purchased the rights to the brand to get a video library and plans to bring the company back with bi-weekly programs.

John Cena reveals plans for a performance center in Mexico

The WWE Performance Center has been one of the biggest successes in the company’s history. Instead of relying solely on talent from the indies or other companies, he created a wrestling factory that developed future stars.

After purchasing AAA last year, there were rumors that the company might open a new performance center in Mexico. It’s possible that this could be Cena’s announcement at Backlash.

John Cena reveals WWE has purchased TNA Wrestling

If Cena’s announcement is to truly shake up WWE, it needs to be monumental. New details on Club WWE won’t do that. However, it would be revealed that he purchased TNA. There has been speculation for some time that the company would purchase its longtime competitor. The working relationship over the past two years may have set the stage for an eventual purchase.

Although this would not be good for the wrestlers and staff, TNA’s video library and brand would be a very valuable asset to WWE.

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

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

Before the Raiders hit the clock, I want to go on the record.

Every year I do this. Every year, some of these age beautifully and some of them get screenshotted and thrown back in my face by people in my mentions who have been waiting since April to do the exact same thing. Good. This is the deal. You want accountable tech, they’re here.

Let’s start with the obvious and get it out of the way.

Fernando Mendoza has become number 1. I’m really going out on a limb here, aren’t I? The Raiders took over an Indiana quarterback who went 16–0, won a Heisman, threw 41 touchdowns against six interceptions and completed 72% of his passes in a national championship season. It takes almost zero courage to predict this. John Spytek said he has received calls about the selection and that teams “know where they stand.” This GM means stop calling us.

Mendoza is a Raider as of Thursday night at 8:15 pm Eastern time. write it down.

Now this is where it gets interesting.

How the top of the draft plays out past Mendoza

Jets It’s two o’clock and I’m taking Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey over Ohio State’s Arvel Reese. I know this is an unpopular approach. Reese is the unanimous choice, the athleticism darling, the guy most analysts have cornered. I don’t care. The Jets aren’t drafting for upside right now – they’re drafting for production. Bailey led the Big 12 with 14.5 sacks last season, posted 19.5 tackles for loss, and was disruptive every week against real competition. Reese has a high ceiling. Bailey has a track record. New York has been trying to replace their pass rush for half a decade and they don’t have the luxury of waiting on the potential Bailey already has to develop. The Jets took Bailey, and in two years no one remembered it being a surprise. But, this is a prediction that most of you will take a screenshot of.

Cornell Tate could not advance further than eighth place. On most boards he’s going somewhere between six and nine, and I’m not arguing with that range. He’s the most complete receiver in this class, a legitimate route runner who draws comparisons to Justin Jefferson from people whose opinions I really respect. Cleveland needs a receiver so badly that if he’s there at six, they’re not waiting. If it somehow falls, someone will do the business. Tate is leaving quickly with a smile on his face.

Omar Cooper Jr. is the wild card of the first round. Most big boards right now have him going between 13 and 16 — Dan Brugler at The Athletic has him ranked 21st overall, NFL.com’s Mock continues to have him landing at 13 on the Rams, and Todd McShay has him in the middle of the first round. Daniel Jeremiah expressed the possibility that he would lose in the second round. I think the truth lies somewhere between the consensus and Jeremiah. His receiving totals never topped 1,000 yards in college, and for all the athleticism and yards after the catch, NFL teams are going to be talking to themselves before Thursday night is over. He doesn’t make it to Round 2, but he doesn’t make it to Round 13 either. Cooper lands somewhere in the 18-22 range, and whoever took him there feels like they stole something.

What about the Raiders in Round 2?

Now – Raiders at 36.

The receiver board in this location is actually quite interesting. Zachariah Branch, Kevin Concepcion, and Isaiah Bonds all sit in that late-first to mid-second tier, and in most years at least one – if not two – of them are gone before the Raiders even get on the clock. Concepcion, in particular, is a mid-20s player on a lot of boards and probably shouldn’t have gotten here. If he does that, this type of slide teams onto the podium quickly. Any one of them makes sense here.

But the name I remember over and over again is Jeremy Bernard. The Alabama receiver doesn’t have the buzz of the top names in this class, but he weighs in at 6-1, 206 pounds and led the Crimson Tide in catches last season with 50 receptions for 794 yards. Dan Brugler called him a favorite among scouts and coaches, especially because of his versatility in all formations and his competitive mentality. He’s not a slam dunk pick here – Branch and Bonds both have arguments – but if Spytek is building around Mendoza’s comfort and wants a receiver who can line up at multiple spots and work quickly, Bernard fits that profile better than anyone else at this level. Kubiak will find ways to get him the ball.

Either way, the Raiders come out of Round 2 with a pass catcher. I’ll bet on it.

Attackers in Round 3 and beyond

When Vegas gets to 67 in round 3, I think SpyTech goes to the rescue. Specifically, defensive tackle. McDonald visited Henderson and everyone keeps throwing up his name, but let’s be honest – Kayden McDonald is an intriguing prospect. Many boards have him in the mid to late round of the first round, and if he somehow ends up in the late part of Round 2, Spytek should be trading on the phone, not sitting and waiting. He will no longer be there at the age of 67.

A more realistic target is Domonique Orange out of Iowa State. He visited Henderson, he weighs 325 pounds and projects as a round 3-4 pick across the board. He’s not a pass rusher, but in Rob Leonard’s 3-4, the nose tackle’s job is to hold the point of attack and keep the linebackers clean. Orange does exactly that.

Chris McClellan from Missouri is another name here. He also visited, and what separates him from the Orange isn’t pass-rush production (scouts doubt that part of his game), it’s versatility. McClellan can line up anywhere from zero-technique to 4i, which gives a defensive coordinator more options depending on personnel. One of them is a raider as of Saturday morning.

The secondary is addressed on the third day with at least one selection of the fourth round. Three fourth rounders are a luxury. Spytek uses one on a cornerback – I guess Delenn Everett from Georgia visited. The projection range on Everett is wide, anywhere from the end of Day 2 to the beginning of Day 3, so nabbing him with one of those fourth-round picks is realistic without a stretch.

The running back comes in on day three. There’s the name of Indiana’s Kellon Black – physical runner, strong in pass protection, and running backs to that national championship with Mendoza in two seasons. He projects in the fifth or sixth round, right where the Raiders have options sitting. You’re not asking him to go back to being featured. You’re asking him to provide a capable rotation option to Ashton Jeanty and contribute on special teams. Black can do this.

Then there’s Boston College offensive lineman Logan Taylor, who made the top 30 with the Raiders. He weighs 6-7, 314 pounds and started games at all four positions on the line in college – left tackle, left guard, right guard, right tackle. He is not someone who has wandered into a position; He is a man who has learned how to play football. You don’t need that to get started. You need him to give your offensive line room a reliable backup who can plug in anywhere when things get rough, and Taylor provides exactly that. He is the person chosen for the third day who fits the role of the third day perfectly.

Then it’s a receiver, a safety or two, a linebacker that makes your special teams coach smile. The third day is where you throw darts and hope one of them sticks.

Here’s my main takeaway: The Raiders will not be a contender in 2026. Anyone telling you otherwise is not straight with you. Six wins, maybe seven, is a realistic outcome in Year 1 of this rebuild. But a good draft – a Mendoza, a receiver at 36, a nose tackle at 67, secondary depth in Round 4, and a running back with system familiarity at the end of Day 3 – sets this thing up nicely for 2027 and beyond.

Check back Friday morning. I will remain here, either paying obeisance or explaining myself.

maybe both.

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

Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft begins Thursday night and everyone knows Fernando Mendoza will be the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. After that, chaos can happen and we’re trying to present some surprises that could happen on draft night.

Let’s take a look at our final set of bold 2026 NFL Draft predictions for Round 1.

New Orleans Saints trade up for No. 3 pick

Myriad of NFL Draft rumors have made it clear that the Arizona Cardinals are engaged in talks to trade down from No. 3 overall. A deal with the Kansas City Chiefs is certainly possible, but general manager Mickey Loomis’ history of draft-day aggression leads us to believe it would be the New Orleans Saints. Along with the quarterback, New Orleans needs to find its own blue-chip talent on the defensive side. That would be Arvel Reese. While David Bailey is the better pass rusher at the moment, Reese offers more versatility as a player with a higher ceiling overall. He could be the centerpiece of the Saints defense for a decade.

RELATED: Small-school prospects worth knowing about in the 2026 NFL Draft

New York Giants snag Jordan Tyson, Caleb Downs

The Dexter Lawrence trade allows the New York Giants to double dip into this attractive prospect pool, addressing needs on both sides of the ball. We think the New York Giants will use the fifth overall pick on wide receiver Jordan Tyson, betting that his injury issues are behind him. When healthy, Tyson is a true No. 1 receiver whose skillset will complement Malik Nabors greatly. For the Giants, this gives Jackson Dart two No. 1 receivers to pair with tight end Isaiah Potential. With the 10th overall selection, head coach John Harbaugh is reminiscent of what the Baltimore Ravens did with the selection of Kyle Hamilton a few years ago. In grabbing All-American safety Caleb Downs at No. 10, New York gets a high-end starter who can do it all.

Washington Commanders Draft Jeremiah Love

Although there is a lot of talk that the Tennessee Titans could choose to bring back Jeremiah Love, we believe Robert Saleh will get his preferred player in David Bailey. So, with Tyson landing in New York, the Washington commanders’ dream scenario unfolds. Running backs may not be the Commanders’ highest need, but blue-chip edge defenders are off the board. It’s also worth remembering that many teams view Love as the best player in the 2026 NFL Draft. He may be just a level below Bijan Robinson as a prospect, but Love’s three-down ability and home-run explosiveness are reminiscent of an All-Pro. That’s the ability you want to pair with Jaden Daniels and Washington will get him.

RELATED: Why the Titans shouldn’t draft Jeremiah Love

Los Angeles Rams boost offense with Makai Lemon

If it hasn’t already been made clear, the Los Angeles Rams are all set heading into the 2026 season and are putting together possibly the best supporting cast around Matthew Stafford. That means selecting wide receiver Makai Lemon with the 13th overall pick. Lemon will be in a position to have plenty of guys to feed into in the Rams’ passing game, but he will also share the field with Puka Nakua and receive guidance from Davante Adams. If he can even be a discount version of Amon-Ra St. Brown, the Rams’ passing attack could be one of the best the NFL has seen in over a decade.

Arizona Cardinals trade up in Round 1 for Ty Simpson

We think a pair of NFC West teams would make unlikely trade partners in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. With the Seattle Seahawks actively seeking more draft capital this year, the Cardinals are taking advantage. After moving down from No. 3 earlier in the night and selecting right tackle Francis Mauigoa, the Cardinals tapped into their war chest of draft picks and moved up two spots from the 34th to 32nd selection overall. This secures a fifth-year option on quarterback Ty Simpson, while Seattle picks up some additional draft picks and possibly lands a player with the second pick in Round 2 that would be taken to end Round 1. A win-win for everyone, and Simpson walks into a position with an advanced offensive line and a great supporting cast of weapons in Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson.

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

Game 1 gave the New York Knicks a strong early lead in the series, but it also showed that Atlanta could remain in the battle down the stretch. Jalen Brunson started off with sharp scoring, Karl-Anthony Towns took over after halftime, and New York held off the Hawks’ last-ditch effort for a 113–102 victory.

The focus now turns to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 on Monday night, and the Hawks will need a sharp response if they are to avoid a 2-0 loss. Atlanta was competitive for a long time in Game 1, and regular season meetings show that this matchup always looks closer than the scoreboard suggests.

Jalen Brunson exceeds 25 points again

Brunson looks to be the safest scoring bet in this series. He had already scored 28 points in Game 1, and the Knicks relied on him before Towns took over. The big reason to expect another big night is matchup history: Against Atlanta in the regular season, Brunson averaged 29.3 points and 7.8 assists, a sign that the Hawks have struggled to keep him from dictating the pace.

New York’s offense often runs on its ability to create in the half court, and with the series still being tight, the Knicks are likely to keep the ball in their hands when the game slows down.

Karl-Anthony Towns posts double-double

The city is the second biggest problem facing Atlanta. He finished Game 1 with 25 points, and 19 of them came after halftime, showing how dangerous he can be once he gets set. The best part of this prediction is the rebounding angle: Towns has the size and usage to stack the boards, and he averaged 13.5 rebounds in the two regular season meetings against Atlanta, while scoring 28.5 points per game.

This type of production makes a double-double very realistic, especially if the Hawks focus too much on Brunson and leave Towns space to work inside and on the glass.

Hawks fight hard, but lose

Atlanta should not be expected to roll over. The Hawks went 20–6 after the All-Star break to clinch the No. 6 seed, and in Game 1 they got 26 points from CJ McCollum and 23 points from Jalen Johnson to close the gap briefly in the fourth quarter.

That said, New York has already shown it can answer every Hawks run, and the Knicks were also 30-10 at home this season. Game 2 should be more competitive than the final score suggests, but the Knicks still have the deep late-game lead and cleaner star power. Expect Atlanta to make it uncomfortable, then come back short again.

final predictions: Knicks 118, Hawks 112

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

After trading Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals, the New York Giants now have the fifth and 10th picks.^th Overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Before the Lawrence trade, mock drafts varied widely on who the Giants would take with the fifth pick. Now that they have two top 10 picks, they have a good chance to add two players who have been linked to them.

Anything can happen in the NFL Draft, especially this year because there are six teams, including the Giants, who have two selections in the first round. Here are three bold predictions from Big Blue for the 2026 NFL Draft.

RELATED: 2026 New York Giants mock draft, Nos. 5 to 193

Giants draft Ohio State superstars Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs

For the past few months there has been debate over who New York should make with its first pick. The players most discussed are Notre Dame running back Jeremiah Love and Ohio State Buckeyes All-Americans Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs.

Unfortunately for New York, Love will not be on the board as the Tennessee Titans will take him with the fourth overall pick. So, with the fifth overall pick and the first pick of the John Harbaugh era, New York will take Styles with the fifth pick.

With the addition of Styles, the Giants have the best interior linebacker in the draft, and then they will run into some good fortune as Downs will still be on the board at 10, which will allow them to draft the best safety in the draft.

Having the best players at two spots will be a huge benefit to a struggling defense in the coming years. Styles and Downs played key roles in the Buckeyes winning the National Championship in 2024 and Giants fans hope they will someday help bring home the franchise’s fifth Lombardi Trophy.

RELATED: Evaluating the New York Giants’ options with the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft

The Giants find Dexter Lawrence’s replacement in Kayden McDonald

With Lawrence gone, Big Blue will need to focus on the defensive tackle position as they are very thin at the position. Players’ luck falling to them would continue as Ohio State defensive tackle Cayden McDonald would fall to them with 37.^th Overall selection.

Some believe McDonald could be taken late in the first round, while others think that since he only had one year as a full-time starter, he could slide to the second round. In his final year with the Buckeyes. The 6’2, 326-pound defensive lineman had 65 tackles with three sacks, and was named a unanimous All-American.

He will be the third consecutive Buckeye the Giants will draft, but more importantly, he will be Lawrence’s replacement.

RELATED: 5 NY Giants options with the 37th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, including Chris Johnson

Giants trade Kayvon Thibodeaux on second day of NFL draft

With Kayvon Thibodeaux entering the final year of his contract, the 25-year-old edge rusher has been the subject of trade rumors since the conclusion of the 2025 season. The Giants are on the edge with second-team All-Pro Brian Burns and second-year player Abdul Carter.

New York does not have a third-round selection, and with several positions needing to be addressed, the team will actively try to acquire more selections. Thibodaux is an ideal candidate for a trade during day three of the draft, as the franchise has no plans beyond 2026, and other teams could always use a quality edge rusher.

By trading Thibodaux for a mid-round pick, the team could consider acquiring a wide receiver like Indiana’s Elijah Sarratt or Notre Dame’s Malachi Fields. Or the team could consider addressing the interior offensive line with Kentucky’s Jalen Farmer, or a cornerback like South Carolina’s cornerback Brandon Cisse, or Ohio State’s Davison Igbinosun.

The Giants are building for 2026 and beyond, and trading a pass rusher in the final year of his deal for a player who can help the team in the years to come makes a lot of sense.

RELATED: 3 New York Giants who could be traded during the 2026 NFL Draft

As we enter another week of the 2026 Major League Baseball season, all 30 clubs have now played at least 20 games. A lot of teams are in a hot spot at the moment and one club in particular is very cold. As the weekend action approaches its conclusion, we’ll try and project what will happen on the MLB schedule this week.

Let’s take a look at our bold MLB predictions for the upcoming games this week.

Carson Benz hits first HR since Opening Day

This prediction is definitely not about numbers. After all, the New York Mets entered Sunday on a 10-game losing streak, and rookie outfielder Carson Benz has made 68 plate appearances since last homering on Opening Day. Of particular concern is that he has collected only one extra-base hit (double) in his last 62 plate appearances and has put up an abysmal .140/.210/.158 triple-slash line over that span. However, we’re here to say that Benz’s power drought will end at some point this week with a home run against Simeon Woods Richardson (Wednesday) at Citi Field or a three-game homestand against the Colorado Rockies. The Mets would win that game as well.

Shota Imanaga gets 10+ Ks in consecutive starts

With the Chicago Cubs without three starters – Justin Steele, Matthew Boyd and Cade Horton, there is even more pressure on Shota Imanaga’s shoulders. Last week, he was lights-out against the Philadelphia Phillies with 11 strikeouts and only 3 hits allowed in 6 innings. Facing the same team in consecutive starts isn’t ideal, but the Phillies’ lineup has the fifth-highest strikeout rate in MLB (24.3 percent) since April 5. We think we have another gem coming from Imanaga this week.

Shohei Ohtani homers 5 hitless innings

In his major-league career, Shohei Ohtani has boasted a .930 OPS with 10 home runs against the San Francisco Giants, and he has hit 4 home runs in 58 career at-bats at Oracle Park. Not only are we seeing the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way star pitching deep this week in San Francisco, but we also think he’ll make it through 5 hitless innings against the Giants’ lineup.

READ MORE: SF Giants high on top MLB draft prospect

Cleveland Guardians lead 5-1

Starting pitching has carried the Cleveland Guardians this season, demonstrated by the fact that the team entered Sunday with the third-lowest rotation ERA (3.00) in baseball. Fortunately for the Guardians lineup, there is a “Be Right” series this month to start the week against the Houston Astros pitching staff, which has an ERA of 6.80 (worst in MLB). We believe Cleveland beats the Astros at home and then goes to Toronto to take a three-game series, and solidify their position at the top of the AL Central by coming out of the week with a 5-1 record.

Aaron Judge Homers Twice vs. Boston Red Sox

Aaron Judge is going to have some fun at Fenway Park this week. They get a three-game series against a Boston Red Sox pitching staff that has allowed the fifth-most home runs (26) in baseball this season, tied with the Colorado Rockies (25). Although he has not had a high average at Fenway (.217) in his career, he still has 12 homers in this ballpark, 3 of which came last season. It may have been a two-homer game, but we’re inclined to say Judge homers in two of the three games at Fenway.

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

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

montreal canadiens news

We now know when (most) of the games in the first-round series between the Habs and Tampa Bay Lightning will take place. It should also be noted that Victor Hedman is not expected to return to the Bolts’ lineup any time soon, and Lane Hutson practiced with Caden Guhle for the Canadiens. [Canadiens Playoff Preview: Updated Lines, Tampa Bay Injury]

Rookie Ivan Demidov took over the line rush with Alex Newhook and Alex Texier on the second line, and he’s feeling confident about the upcoming assignment against the Lightning, which will certainly include providing some semblance of durable offense.

Ivan Demidov on playing with Alex Newhook and Alexandre Texier in Habs practice today:

“Very good line. Everyone is very skilled and fast and they are two very strong guys. I love playing with them.” pic.twitter.com/dO3ClWmj9e

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 18 April 2026

Former hub PK Subban believes the Canadiens and Oilers will face off in the Stanley Cup Finals, with the Canadiens emerging victorious. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming in Technicolor, but with all due respect to Subban, there’s a lot of hard hockey left to play. It seems that every year a disproportionate number of analysts suggest that two Canadian teams will join the final clubs.

.@PKSubban1 The Canadiens have won the Stanley Cup for the 25th time 👀🏆

Stanley Cup Playoff action begins today at 3PM ET on ESPN and the ESPN App! 🍿 pic.twitter.com/9MyPNhs8Lm

– ESPN (@espn) 18 April 2026

Jacob Dobbs hasn’t been one of the best goaltenders this season, but the mere fact that he’s not too far off the top-5 is quite encouraging. Unfortunately for the Canadiens, Andrei Vasilevskiy is fourth in the NHL in assists.

Top goalscorers of the 2025-2026 regular season https://t.co/RtBkDPbkvW pic.twitter.com/xy4xMcNxRD

– MoneyPuck.com (@MoneyPuckdotcom) 17 April 2026

Not surprisingly, as they were the youngest team during the regular season, the Habs will also feature the youngest lineup in the playoffs. This is also a big difference.

The Habs will be the youngest team in the NHL playoffs again this year. pic.twitter.com/gU6uyCiSKX

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 18 April 2026

Head coach Martin St-Louis left no doubt when discussing his allegiance to the Canadiens and his time with the Lightning.

Habs coach Marty St. Louis on facing his old team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, in the playoffs:

“I have no feelings for Lightning right now. Zero.” pic.twitter.com/yPIBokAo4S

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 17 April 2026

Many journalists expected Lightning to make quick work of Hubs, and statistically speaking, there is a lot of logic behind their opinion. The good news is that the games are played on ice, not on paper.

Sportsnet predictions for Habs vs. Lightning playoff series pic.twitter.com/xIvzEJkzas

– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) 18 April 2026

ICYMI: With Game One of the first-round series between the Habs and Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, we continue our in-depth series previews, including a comparison of their respective special teams. [Playoff Preview: Canadiens Vs. Lightning Special Teams]

ICYMI: We evaluated some X-factors coming into the series, including the importance of finding open space for Nick Suzuki and the rest of the first line. The Canadiens score a lot of goals, but if Tampa Bay’s shutdown line finds its rhythm, things will quickly turn sour for Montreal. [Playoff Preview: Canadiens Vs. Lightning Top X Factors]

ICYMI: There is no doubt, the Tampa Bay Lightning have been the better team at 5v5 this season. However, when the numbers between Montreal and the Lightning are evaluated against each other in their four games, the discrepancy is less noticeable, with the Canadiens managing to control more shots than the Bolts. [Playoff Preview: Canadiens Vs. Lightning Head-To-Head]

Sportsknot Network

New Jersey Devils win general manager free agent frenzy. Sunny Mehta was named Devils GM on Thursday evening. Mehta, an analytical guru, will bring a fresh perspective to the position left by former GM Tom Fitzgerald. Said approach begins immediately. The Devils have a long list of things to address ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft and free agent frenzy. So, where does he start? [New Jersey Devils]

The San Jose Sharks have one of the best players in the NHL at the moment in 19-year-old Maclin Celebrini. Coming off a record-breaking season where he almost led the team to the playoffs, it appears the phenom will be rewarded with a new deal this summer. [San Jose Sharks]

How can the Sens upset the best team in the Eastern Conference? Let’s get into the details with five keys to the Ottawa Senators vs. Carolina Hurricanes victory. [Carolina Hurricanes]

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

After being on the road to WrestleMania 42 since January’s Royal Rumble, the wait is finally over. This weekend brings the 2026 edition of WWE’s annual celebration for wrestling fans, and this year’s event includes two explosive nights of action at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

The card for WrestleMania 42 Night 2 will include two of the most anticipated matches of the event. One is the big fight between “The Beast” Brock Lesnar and “The Ruler” Oba Femi. The second is in the main event of the night, when CM Punk defends the WWE World Heavyweight Title against hated rival Roman Reigns.

With that in mind, we offer some bold predictions for each match on Night 2 of WrestleMania 42.

Brock Lesnar vs Oba Femi

Considering how many times Femi has gained the upper hand on Lesnar during their feud, WWE history suggests that the future Hall of Famer will get the last laugh, as he has done against many stars during his legendary career. But this is a different time and situation.

For some time now, reports have been saying that Lesnar is very close to the end of his WWE career. Like the greats of the past, “respecting” and helping create future stars is what he should do when he goes out. A victory for Femi, especially an impressive one, at WrestleMania 42 could create a new main event star. Hopefully the former NXT Champion will carry the torch as the new beast comes to WWE on Sunday night.

WWE Women’s Championship: Jade Cargill (Captain) vs. Rhea Ripley

Regarding the ongoing feud between WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill and Elimination Chamber winner Rhea Ripley, different reports are coming that both of them are not fans of each other in real life. This added a unique tension and physicality to the situation. It also stands out because Cargill looks to be the smarter of the two and continues to improve into a future Hall of Famer.

WWE’s booking history shows that Ripley has got her revenge. But the heels are going to win at WrestleMania 42, and this feels like one of those examples. Look for Cargill’s new teammates – Mitchin and B-Fab – to join in and save the winner from imminent loss. This would lead to a long-rumored feud with former friend Bianca Belair.

finn balor vs dominik mysterio

The moment many WWE fans have been waiting for on Sunday night is the return of “The Demon” Finn Balor. And what a perfect time for his alter ego to reemerge as he looks to teach former Judgment Day brother Dominic Mysterio a violent lesson.

There were rumors that Baylor was expecting a big push when he signed his current deal two years ago. This never happened. Now seems like the right time for him and “The Demon” to re-establish themselves as a force on Raw. Expect an impressive victory from the first Universal Champion.

Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match: Penta (c) vs. Jevon Evans vs. Rusev vs. Dragon Lee vs. JD McDonagh vs. Rey Mysterio

One match that could easily steal the show at WrestleMania 42 Night 2 is the Six-Pack Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match. The reigning champ, Penta, will defend his gold against Rusev, high flyer J’Von Evans, fellow lucha star Dragon Lee, JD McDonagh and Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio.

This is a match ripe for a surprise win. While many may have expected Ja’Von Evans to pick up an unexpected victory in a match built on his skills, the expectation is that “Rusev Day” will return and the Bulgarian will win the bout. WWE had invested well in his return a year ago. They need to bring him back into a featured role, and a long-term feud with Penta for the belt would be fun.

United States Championship: Sami Zayn (c) vs. Trick Williams

Rumors are swirling about a United States title match between Sami Zayn and Trick Williams. Zayn surprisingly drew the ire of fans by defeating Carmelo Hayes for the title just weeks before WrestleMania. Whereas since arriving from NXT late last year, Williams has become one of the most popular stars in the company, despite being a heel.

Rumors suggest we may be getting a rare wrestling double turn. Pulling the trigger on such an idea is perfect for this match, and like Femi earlier in the night, Williams’ title win and baby face turn would create a new top star. Expect to hear “and new” at the end of it.

World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns

Punk and Reigns have done a great job of generating huge interest in what was a dream feud for wrestling fans a few years ago. He made things personal, then just a week before the event, he revealed that even though they hate each other, he still has a lot of respect for his enemy.

Despite the hype, the result seems predictable, and Reigns will return to the top of the mountain after being defeated at WrestleMania 40 two years ago. But what’s the fun in it? We predict something different. Punk shocked fans by turning heel, reuniting with Paul Heyman and becoming the new leader of Vision. Is it a possibility? No, but how wild would that be?

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

As the New York Knicks prepare to host the Atlanta Hawks in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series at Madison Square Garden, expectations are high for the third-seeded New York team.

After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last year, the Knicks are hungry for a championship run. With a 2-1 lead in the season series and home-court advantage in their favor, here are three predictions for Saturday’s playoff opener.

Jalen Brunson delivers another 25+ point performance

Jalen Brunson has been nothing short of sensational against Atlanta this season, and that trend will continue in Game 1. The All-Star guard averaged 29.3 points in three regular season meetings, including a stellar 30-point, 13-assist performance in an April 6 win over the Giants.

Brunson’s ability to exploit Atlanta’s perimeter defense while planning an offense makes him unstoppable in high-leverage situations. Expect him to strike early, set the tone at MSG, and finish with at least 27 points and 8 assists.

The playoff spotlight brings out the best in Brunson, and he’ll remind everyone why he’s one of the league’s best performers.

Knicks defense stifles Hawks’ young core

The Knicks’ defensive trio of OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart will make life miserable for Atlanta’s offensive threats. Jalen Johnson, who leads the Hawks in points, rebounds and assists, will struggle to find a rhythm against this stifling defense.

New York ranks seventh in defensive rating this season, and their playoff intensity will be on full display. Look for the Knicks to hold Atlanta under 105 points while forcing 13+ turnovers.

Jonathan Kuminga and CJ McCollum may get the momentum, but a collective defensive effort will neutralize the Hawks’ offense. Karl-Anthony Towns will dominate the glass with 12+ rebounds, controlling possessions and limiting second chance opportunities.

Bench provides winning edge

While the starters grab the headlines, the Knicks’ bench will be the difference maker in a tough playoff battle. Miles McBride, Landry Shamet and Mitchell Robinson will combine for 25+ points and provide vital energy when the starters are rested.

McBride’s three-point shooting and defensive tenacity would drive momentum in the second quarter, while Robinson’s rim protection would erase mistakes. The depth that coach Mike Brown has developed throughout the season becomes a weapon in the playoffs, and Atlanta doesn’t have the bench firepower to match.

Final prediction: Knicks 112, Hawks 103.

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

After being on the road to WrestleMania 42 since January’s Royal Rumble, the wait is finally over. This weekend brings the 2026 edition of WWE’s annual celebration for wrestling fans, and this year’s event includes two explosive nights of action at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

The WrestleMania 42 Night 1 card features a number of interesting matchups, including a highly anticipated clash between Seth Rollins and Gunther, as well as a controversial main event that will see Cody Rhodes defend the WWE Undisputed Title against his former close friend Randy Orton.

With that in mind, we’re offering some bold predictions for Saturday’s WrestleMania card.

Logan Paul, Austin Theory, and iShowspeed vs. The Usos and L.A. Knight

The first night of WrestleMania 42 will debut on ESPN 2 and will feature a cross-over match pitting The Vision’s Logan Paul and Austin Theory teaming up with mega-popular YouTuber iShowspeed against The Usos and LA Knight. When it comes to big shows like this, WWE often wants to start things off on a fun and positive note. This match is designed to be a whole lot of fun and possibly silly at some points.

Don’t be surprised if we get an appearance from Danhausen early in the show to continue the story with him after Speed ​​cursed him a few weeks ago. In the end, the babyface trio of The Usos and Knight would pick up the victory to get the fans excited early.

Women’s Intercontinental Championship: AJ Lee (Captain) vs. Becky Lynch

The months-long feud between Becky Lynch and AJ Lee should come to an end on Saturday night. The two future Hall of Famers have been at odds since the fall. However, Lee has the better of the Irish girl at every turn. Defeating him in a tag match at Wrestlepalooza, then winning Intercontinental gold at Elimination Chamber in February.

That hot streak is going to end this weekend. While Lynch doesn’t need to get the IC title back, there’s no way Lee has full ownership of the greatest female performer of all time. Given the way WWE does balanced booking, it’s too late to tip the scales back on Lynch.

Rejected Match: Drew McIntyre vs. Jacob Fatu

Another feud that will come to a decisive conclusion at WrestleMania 42 is the bitter rivalry between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre. The monster duo have been feuding with each other for weeks and could steal the show with their rejected match on Night 1.

But one thing is certain. Fatu will get the biggest W of his career on Saturday. Especially since McIntyre was busy filming. hillHe is certain to suffer a loss and take some time off after this weekend.

Women’s Tag Team Championship Fatal 4-Way: Irresistible Forces (c) vs. The Bella Twins vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Bayley and Lyra Valkyria

On Saturday Night, the Women’s Tag Team titles are at stake when The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) battle The Bella Twins (if Nikki Bella is cleared to compete), Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, and Bayley and Lyra Valkyria.

This could go in a lot of different directions, and because WWE loves the Bellas so much, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they get the long-awaited tag team title shot. But in the best interest of the division and the legend, the champs must maintain and continue their dominance as titlists. Plus, the heels will win at WrestleMania and it seems like a perfect match to make that happen.

Women’s World Championship: Stephanie Wacker (captain) vs Liv Morgan

One of the best things about this year’s event is the rivalry between Women’s Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan and Women’s World Champion Stephanie Walker. Things got heated, personal, and very physical a few weeks ago as Wacker accidentally(?) hurt Morgan and Roxanne Perez.

Morgan doesn’t need a win here, and giving Wacker a big ‘Mania moment seems like a smart play as she could become a top star for years to come. However, Morgan’s win has led to some great storylines and feuds with her Judgment Day sisters Perez and Raquel Rodriguez. For that reason, we predict Morgan W.

seth rollins vs gunther

Although it was a late addition to WrestleMania 42, Rollins vs. Gunther has the potential to be the best match of any night and a match of the year contender. They are two of the best wrestlers on earth and should create magic in the ring.

The fact that Braun Breaker is reportedly looking away and is set to make his return soon makes it likely that Rollins gets the win and then his celebration after the match or on Monday’s Raw is ended by the man he brought in, The Vision.

Undisputed WWE Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton

The feud between Orton and Rhodes has been awkward at times and has become even weirder with the random inclusion of former announcer and popular podcaster Pat McAfee. It has transformed the competition from a battle for gold between close friends to a battle over the future direction of the company.

McAfee’s involvement in the storyline has been condemned by fans and wrestlers. However, it is unlikely that he will disappear after Saturday night. Additionally, there are rumors that WWE is planning a tag match between Orton and McAfee against Rhodes and Jelly Roll at Backlash, which suggests that “The Viper” will get world title shot number 15 this weekend.

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

This week’s focus is on the NBA Play-In Tournament, with matchups that will determine who will face the No. 1 and No. 2 seeded teams in the Western and Eastern Conferences. However, our NBA playoff predictions are focusing on the first round only.

Let’s take a look at some of our early bold predictions for the first round of the NBA playoffs.

Houston Rockets take on Los Angeles Lakers

Any excitement for the first-round playoff series between the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers quickly vanished following injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. With all due respect to the second-best player in NBA history, 41-year-old LeBron James can no longer carry a team. James is the only healthy Lakers player averaging double-digit shots per game this season and we certainly don’t see Deandre Ayton making strides in the playoffs. Additionally, Houston finished the season by winning 10 of its last 14 games, with two of those losses coming by a total of 16 points to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Rockets are better defensively, have more depth, and match up perfectly with this version of the Lakers. LeBron’s tenure in Los Angeles ended in the first round.

RELATED: NBA Play-In Tournament Predictions

Anthony Edwards kills Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets

We look at Anthony Edwards like Patrick Mahomes in the early rounds of the NBA playoffs – it’s not wise to pick against him. The Minnesota Timberwolves superstar has averaged 27.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game over the last three postseasons, shooting 37.2 percent from the perimeter. Although Edwards has a 21-21 career postseason record, Edwards now has an opportunity to defeat the best NBA player of all time in Nikola Jokic. We’re confident Jokic and the Denver Nuggets will take this series, but Edwards’ clutch performance propels Minnesota to give the No. 9 seed a knockout over the No. 3 seed in a winner-take-all Game 7 in Denver.

Dyson Daniels has 30-point game, Knicks pull off gentleman sweep

We wanted to make some bold NBA playoff predictions for the first round, so why not a 30-burger for Dyson Daniels? He scored 25-plus points only twice this season and has never had a 30-point game in his career. However, the New York Knicks are going to give him some wide-open threes in this series, and Daniels has shot 36.7 percent from the perimeter in his last 16 games. We’re saying he’s going to have a hot night in Atlanta, hitting three three-pointers for the first time in over a year (April 2, 2025). This would be one of the reasons Atlanta would win a game in this series, with New York sweeping the Gentlemen.

Donovan Mitchell scored 30+ in every game

Most likely, we will see RJ Barrett matched up against Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell. This does not bode well for the Toronto Raptors. Mitchell has averaged 29.6 points per game over the past two postseasons with Cleveland, and he averaged just 23.8 ppg in last year’s first-round series against the Miami Heat. While Toronto has enough talent to take this series to six games, Mitchell will drop over 30 points in every game and obliterate the Raptors like a meteor.

Read More: 2026 NBA Draft Lottery Odds, Date

Play-in teams are swept

We would like to thank all the teams participating in the NBA Play-In Tournament for playing. By the time the first round rolls around, we’ll see just how wide the gap is between the best NBA teams and the teams that are in the playoff race this season. The Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs and Boston Celtics will all win in the first round, which will be easily decided. It’s more likely that the Detroit Pistons lose a game, but we’re going to bet on Cade Cunningham and company to pull off a clean sweep in Round 1.

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

The 2025-26 NBA regular season has concluded, which brings us to the play-in tournament field, which was largely determined before the 82nd game of the season. Now that the matchups have been determined, it’s time to predict how the matchups will unfold.

Let’s take a look at our 2026 NBA Play-in Tournament predictions.

(8) Portland Trail Blazers vs. (7) Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns went 2–1 with a +7 point differential in their head-to-head meetings against the Portland Trail Blazers during the regular season. However, it is worth noting that Devin Booker did not play in either of the two February matches and Deni Avdija only played 1 minute in both contests.

A key in this matchup will be what Phoenix gets from Devin Booker. He scored more than 30 points in 24 regular season games, but when this happened the Suns posted only a .500 record. Portland’s physicality could also pose a real problem for Phoenix, especially since several of its key players are unsuccessful. In a tight game, we’re picking the Trail Blazers to surprise on the road.

• Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers 121, Phoenix Suns 118

Read More: 2026 NBA Draft Lottery Odds, Date

(10) Golden State Warriors vs. (9) Los Angeles Clippers

The NBA play-in tournament battle between Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard, it’s a recipe for greatness. Since it is an elimination game, the stakes are even higher, with the loser’s season ending and the winner fighting for the No. 8 seed against the loser of the first play-in game.

Generally, it isn’t wise to pick against Curry and the Golden State Warriors in such a big game. However, what Kawhi Leonard has done for the Los Angeles Clippers recently is absurd. Over his final 35 games, Leonard averaged 27.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.6 steals per game, while shooting 37.4 percent from the perimeter and 51.1 percent from the field. Let’s also remember that he has averaged 27.3 points, 8.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.9 steals per game in the playoffs since 2015. Since Golden State is not well-equipped to stop Los Angeles where it is weakest, Leonard can single-handedly win this game.

• Prediction: Los Angeles Clippers 114, Golden State Warriors 108

(10) Los Angeles Clippers vs. (7) Phoenix Suns

It’s worth looking back at the changes the Clippers have made this season. On December 18, the team lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder by 21 points and fell to 6–21. They finished the season by winning 36 of their last 55 games, a .655 winning percentage that puts them in the same company as the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks. Leonard has been similarly impressive. It would continue on the road in Phoenix, where he would defeat Devin Booker and the Suns to clinch the Clippers’ spot as the No. 8 seed.

• Prediction: Los Angeles Clippers 110, Phoenix Suns 103

(8) Orlando Magic vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers will be without Joel Embiid in this one, which certainly makes this matchup against the Orlando Magic more interesting. That said, Philadelphia has home-court advantage and it’s not like Tyrese Maxey (28.3 ppg and 6.6 apg) isn’t capable of leading the 76ers to victory. That neither of these teams is all that dominant is shown by the fact that the 76ers (18-33) and Magic (23-30) both had very poor records against winning teams. What Orlando brings to the table is more experience playing in close games, and this team finished their season winning five of their last six. We’re seeing this momentum continue on Wednesday, with Desmond Benn, Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero putting on a scoring clinic for Maxi.

• Prediction: Orlando Magic 110, Philadelphia 76ers 105

(10) Miami Heat vs. (9) Charlotte Hornets

Many did not expect the Charlotte Hornets to be the No. 9 seed in the NBA Play-In Tournament this year, but Brandon Miller’s big improvements along with the great play of rookie Kenn Knueppel have them now on the cusp of making the first round. As for the Miami Heat, they cooled off with a 3-10 record before picking up two cheap wins to end the regular season. We see Miami having plenty of scoring threats to handle, which will give Charlotte fans the experience of seeing the Hornets win a playoff game on home turf.

• Prediction: Charlotte Hornets 122, Miami Heat 115

(9) Charlotte Hornets vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers

LaMelo Ball will get his moment in the NBA Play-In Tournament with a strong performance to send the Hornets into a first-round matchup against the Detroit Pistons. Tyrese Maxey will do everything he can for Philadelphia, combining for over 70 points in these two games. That wouldn’t be enough, Embiid’s appendectomy would prove to be the reason the 76ers would suffer another early playoff exit.

• Prediction: Charlotte Hornets 114, Philadelphia 76ers 110

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

The 90th Masters Tournament begins Thursday with first-round action at Augusta National Golf Club.

Just a few miles from the Georgia-South Carolina border and two hours east of Atlanta, the flowers have bloomed, and players are ready to begin their quest to wear the coveted Green Jacket on Sunday.

Only four rounds and 72 regulation holes separate them from winning their first major tournament of 2026. However, the challenges faced by the curriculum are always difficult.

Here are 10 bold predictions for this year’s Masters Tournament.

Current Masters winner falls short

The defending champion returns to Augusta National. Rory McIlroy won last year’s Masters Tournament in a playoff. However, the defending champions have not performed that well even after 12 months of wearing the green jacket. The last player to win consecutive Masters Tournaments was Tiger Woods in 2001 and 2002. McIlroy is also trying to join Woods, Jack Nicklaus (1965-66) and Nick Faldo (1989-90) in successfully defending the Masters title. As a result, McIlroy lost, and Woods’ streak continued for another year as he was the last man to go back-to-back.

Also read: Golf icon says Trump will never be welcome at Augusta National

Justin Rose records another top 15 Masters finish

Justin Rose, who lost to McIlroy in the playoffs last year, also created history 12 months ago. Rose is one of nine players in Masters Tournament history to finish as runner-up three times, having also done so in 2015 and 2017. However, following his runner-up finish in the following year, he broke into the top 15. Rose ranked T10 in 2016 and T12 in 2018. Rose has shown this year that he can battle on the toughest courses, highlighted by his wire-to-wire victory at the Farmers Insurance Open in January.

PGA Tour star misses the cut

One of the stars of this PGA Tour season so far has been Chris Gotterup, who won twice within the first three weeks. He won the Sony Open in Hawaii and followed that up with a win at TPC Scottsdale for the WM Phoenix Open. Gotterup is also coming off a T6 at the Texas Children’s Houston Open a few weeks ago. The Rutgers alumnus is trying to become the fourth player overall and the first player since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979 to win the Masters in his first start. Ultimately, Augusta National had better success than Gotterup, who is competing in the Masters for the first time. Competing in a special group with Jon Rahm and Ludwig Aberg, Gottrup would miss making the cut.

Also read: Tiger told police he was talking to President Trump moments before his DUI arrest

Bryson DeChambeau repeats 2025 Masters performance

Bryson DeChambeau’s difference between wearing a green jacket and losing comes down to his putter. Despite gaining a positive 0.6 strokes throughout the week, it was -2.32 strokes in the final round last year. This was when he was paired with McIlroy on his way to shooting a 3-over 75 to finish T5. He has been victorious in the last two LIV Golf events in South Africa and Singapore. This year, DeChambeau once again missed out on wearing a green jacket.

Scotty Scheffler’s struggle continues

By Scottie Scheffler’s standards, he has struggled recently. He finished T24 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and T22 at The Players Championship in his last two starts. With their recent form and some back injuries to McIlroy and Colin McIlroy, it makes this tournament a little more open than it has been in years past. Those struggles of trying to find that success would ultimately challenge the two-time Masters champion.

RELATED: Scottie Scheffler’s 10 Best Moments of 2025

Matt Fitzpatrick claims record for best Masters finish

Matt Fitzpatrick enters this year’s Masters Tournament fresh off a win at the Valspar Championship a few weeks ago. This also comes a week after he lost the lead on the back nine at the Players Championship during the final round. Fitzpatrick’s best performance came 10 years ago when he finished seventh. This is the year the British get it together and claim to be on Sunday.

Cameroon returns to Young Masters competition

Finishing ahead of Fitzpatrick at The Players Championship was Cameron Young, who birdied the 17th hole to earn his major PGA Tour victory. Young is trying to join Woods and Scheffler as the only players to win the Players and the Masters in the same year. Before missing the cut last year, he had made consecutive top 10 finishes in 2023 and 2024. Young has returned to that form, and missing last year’s cut is an outsider.

JJ Spaun struggles at Augusta

JJ Spawn is coming off a win at the Valero Texas Open in his final tuneup before the Masters this week. The last 13 months have looked very different for Spawn. He was runner-up at the Players last year, won the US Open and competed on the US Ryder Cup team before winning last week. With his win last week, Spawn enters the difficult history of trying to win a Masters Tournament like last week. Only four players have done so, and once in 38 years, the latter being Phil Mickelson two decades ago. As a result, trying to get big win number 2 will be a challenging task.

ALSO READ: Bold predictions for 2026 PGA Tour season, including winning battle vs. LIV Golf

A Masters long shot to win the green jacket

It will be a tall order for Jacob Bridgman to win, but he has the metrics that other champions have. At +8600, he would become the first longshot winner since Danny Willett (+6600) in 2016 and Charl Schwartzel (+9000) in 2011. Bridgeman has shown that he can win against the best by winning the Genesis Invitational, a signature event. There are only two golfers on the planet who have played better than Bridgeman statistically: Scheffler and Rahm. Even though this is his first Master, as mentioned before with Gotterup, the Bridgeman is an interesting looker.

My Masters Pick: Xander Schauffele

Two years ago, Xander Schauffele put it all together with two major wins at the PGA Championship and The Open Championship. Not only does he have major championship experience, but he also has history at Augusta National. Over the past 20 years, the average Masters champion was competing in his ninth Masters, which Schauffele is preparing for this week. Schauffele has also entered the top 30 at all 15 majors leading up to the 2022 Masters. He has five top 10s in the last seven years, including runner-up finish in 2019 and T3 in 2021.

Most recently, Schauffele won in Japan in October and came into Augusta with a 3rd at The Players and a T4 at Valspar. As a result, I have DeChambeau edged out Schauffele and Fitzpatrick in the mix for the 2024 PGA Championship.

Braven Honda graduated from San Diego State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in May 2021. During his time at SDSU, … More about Braven Honda

The NASCAR Cup Series returns this weekend with teams heading to the iconic Bristol Motor Speedway. Two weeks to prepare for the Food City 500 gave drivers time to rest and get additional sim time, so we expect some great racing this weekend.

Let’s take a look at our NASCAR predictions for the Food City 500 at Bristol.

Denny Hamlin wins pole at Bristol

Denny Hamlin and the No. 11 team have not qualified lower than eighth at Bristol Motor Speedway in eight races since 2020. However, he has not won pole here since 2019 and has done so just twice since 2015. Joe Gibbs Racing completely designed the No. 11 at Martinsville two weeks earlier, the car performed well by winning the pole, posting the fastest lap, winning both stages and dominating the majority of the race. We believe the setup will be equally effective at Bristol, earning Hamlin pole position at Bristol for Sunday’s race.

RELATED: NASCAR Cup Series all-time win list, including Denny Hamlin

Kyle Larson wins Stage 1

Last April at Bristol Motor Speedway, Kyle Larson led the field with two stage wins, fastest lap and led 411 laps. We may not see the same level of ownership of the No. 5 car in the Food City 500 this weekend, but Larson will score his first stage win of the season. This is also something he and Hendrick Motorsports need, considering he currently sits ninth in points. Larson will take Stage 1 on Sunday afternoon; This would be the start of an excellent points day for him.

Christopher Bell wins Stage 2

We think there will be a great back-and-forth between some of NASCAR’s best drivers at the Food City 500. Larson gets the Stage 1 win and, thanks to some issues on pit road by the No. 11 team, Christopher Bell takes the advantage, beating Hamlin and Larson for the Stage 2 win. He would finish in the top five on both stages, securing himself over 16 stage points, and he would come out strong over the weekend in the top three in terms of points earned during Sunday’s race.

ty gibbs stays hot

Ty Gibbs certainly isn’t one of the most popular NASCAR drivers at the moment, but you can’t deny the success he’s had recently. He entered the off-week with five consecutive top-six finishes, scoring an average of 41 points per race during that five-race period. He is not making the mistakes of the past where he would have ruined the great equipment, team and setup he was working with. Now, Gibbs is headed to Bristol Motor Speedway, a track where he has averaged an 8.4 finishing position in the past five races, including a third-place finish in last year’s spring race. We believe Gibbs can make it six consecutive top-five finishes.

Food City 500 Winner: Denny Hamlin

While Denny Hamlin hasn’t been as great as Tyler Reddick this season, 23XI Racing has their top driver struggle on these shorter tracks. Hamlin easily had the best car at Martinsville and if not for a loose tire after his final pit stop, which affected the car’s ability to catch up to Chase Elliott, he might have taken the maximum points and the win. We previously predicted that a small pit-stop issue would prevent Hamlin from taking Stage 2, but that the team would be faultless after that. In the battle of Hamlin, Larson and Bell, the two teammates help each other and then Hamlin defeats Bell for the Food City 500 victory.

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

los angeles dodgers

Expectation: Los Angeles enters the season as the clear favorite to repeat as World Series champions and NL West champions. The offense is stellar, with reigning MVP Shohei Ohtani as well as offseason acquisition Kyle Tucker topping the lineup.

Worry: Pitching will be tough early in the season, with Blake Snell out due to injury and the bullpen being made up of cohesive pieces other than closer Edwin Diaz. But as long as they continue their invasion through October, they will arrive when the light is at its brightest.

San Diego Padres

Expectation: The Padres have made tremendous progress in their starting rotation, but their biggest strength is their elite relief corps. Even if the starters don’t go deep enough, the Friars still have the ability to easily field a bullpen game. San Diego could be excited for Mason Miller to have his first full season in the closer role.

Worry: The rotation is worrisome, there isn’t much depth after injuries left season openers Joe Musgrove and Griffin Canning on the injured list. There are positives with Nick Pivetta and Michael King, but not much behind them. If they want a shot at the NL West crown, they’ll need their starters intact.

san francisco giants

Expectation: The San Francisco lineup is fantastic. With the addition of Luis Arraez to the group, the offense looks healthier than ever. Especially with the return of most of their contributors from 2025, as well as a full season from Rafael Devers, the Giants are looking great.

Worry: The bullpen is terrible. With both Camilo Doval and Tyler Rogers gone, relief options are limited. The Giants need relievers to step up or they will lose heartbreaking games every night.

Arizona Diamondbacks

Expectation: The Diamondbacks made a lot of deals this offseason, but they didn’t do much to improve the group. However, the rotation is solid (Arizona is mostly running it back). After re-signing Zack Gallen and Merrill Kelly and bringing Michael Soroka to the Crew, Corbin Burns will join the starting group later this season as the team gets its ace back.

Worry: Like San Francisco, Arizona’s bullpen is extremely bad. After making 29 saves last year, the Dubs didn’t do much to fix their relief corps this offseason and will likely continue to struggle this season.

colorado rockies

Expectation: This is only for Colorado after a historically bad 2025. The Rox improved their starting rotation, and added veterans Michael Lorenzen, Jose Quintana, and Tomoyuki Sugano to join Kyle Freeland. They will contribute to a much more stable rotation than last year’s group.

Worry: Can the lineup produce consistently? Probably not. With youngsters like Hunter Goodman and Ezequiel Tovar leading the group, this is an offense with a lot of potential. But can others come forward to contribute? This remains to be seen.

toronto blue jays

Expectation: After coming so close to winning it last year, the Jays added offseason acquisitions Dylan Cease, Cody Pons, Max Scherzer, Eric Lauer and Tyler Rogers to pitch alongside Kazuma Okamoto and Jesus Sanchez on the offensive side.

Although they lost Bo Bichette in free agency, they are a much better team than they were before (and they were already really good).

But the biggest hope for Toronto fans is a stellar season from superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr., which will propel them back to the postseason.

Worry: The Jays are in the AL East, which is probably the toughest division in the junior circuit – maybe in all of MLB. They have made a lot of offseason moves but the question still remains to be seen if they can follow up their Cinderella story from 2025.

New York Yankees

Expectation: Yanks fans should be feeling good after opening night. He had a dominant performance against San Francisco Giants veteran Logan Webb, earning a 7–0 win after a 5-run shutout in the second inning.

Max Fried pitched 6 ⅓ innings of shutout ball, limiting the Giants batters to two hits. Aaron Judge, the four-time reigning AL MVP, will be eliminated after historically poor play.

Worry: New York has been content to run it back, making no new additions other than bringing back Cody Bellinger, Paul Goldschmidt and Trent Grisham.

They are coming off 94 consecutive winning seasons and could do so again, but in the bloodthirsty AL East, can they keep up?

boston red sox

Expectation: The Sox strengthened their pitching by adding top free agent Ranger Suarez while trading for Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo.

They have one of the most complete starting rotations with great depth in baseball. Peyton Towle won’t be in the starting five, but Conley will fill out the back end nicely.

Worry: Alex Bregman’s passing is sad. Can Caleb Durbin replace Bregman’s production? Probably not, but he’s a great young player and fills in at third base nicely for Boston. But if he can build on his stellar 2025 rookie campaign, Boston will be that much closer to returning to playoff glory.

baltimore orioles

Expectation: After an incredibly disappointing 2025, the O’s made several moves this offseason. That disappointment came largely from incredibly poor pitching.

They signed Chris Bassitt and Zack Eflin in free agency, and traded for Shane Baz and Andrew Kittredge. Despite Grayson Rodriguez leaving the possibility, these moves should get them closer to their 101-win season from 2023.

Worry: Like most of the teams on this list, can they hang on to the East? The Birds have done a lot to try to keep pace with the Yanks, Jays and Sox, but whether they can do so remains to be seen under new manager Craig Alberta.

Their offense looks much better with Pete Alonso at first base, but their ’25 was incredibly disappointing after poor seasons from young stars Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman, but if they can return to form the O’s will be set.

tampa bay rays

Expectation: Not much can be expected from this Rays team outside of Junior Caminero having another incredible year after hitting 36 home runs last season. After his dominant performance in the World Baseball Classic, he will be the only superstar Tampa Bay is seriously lacking.

Worry: Who’s going to take the mound? Shane McClanahan is returning from injury, but they traded Shane Baz and only added Nick Martinez. The Rays won’t compete in the AL East this year, but they can at least expect good performances from Caminero and Chandler Simpson.

The Detroit Tigers are entering the 2026 MLB season with high expectations. After losing to the Seattle Mariners in the 2025 AL Division Series, Detroit made several upgrades throughout the offseason. Most notably, the Tigers signed pitchers Framber Valdez, Justin Verlander, and Kenley Jansen.

Will the Tigers finally win the AL Central? Can Tarik Skubal become the first AL pitcher to win three consecutive Cy Young Awards? Will Detroit win its first World Series since 1984?

Below, we consider 10 bold predictions for the Tigers during the 2026 MLB season!

Kenley Johnson reaches 500 career saves

Jensen will reach 500 career MLB saves during the 2026 season. Jensen, who is expected to share the closing role with Will West and others, needs 24 saves to reach the 500 milestone. The 38-year-old closer ranks fourth all-time in MLB saves and will immortalize himself by recording his 500th save in 2026.

Colt Keith hits more than 20 home runs for the first time

Colt Keith has not produced as expected in MLB; However, that will change this season. In 2026, Keith will hit more than 20 home runs while batting in at least 75 runs. The Tigers’ third baseman hit 13 home runs in 2024 and 2025, but the extra pop in power has yet to appear. Keith is poised to have a breakout season and the Tigers hope to continue his 20-plus home run campaign.

Gleyber Torres stays healthy, produces All-Star season

Gleyber Torres was an All-Star second baseman in 2025; However, an injury reduced his production. However, Torres would bounce back by staying healthy during the 2026 MLB campaign and making the All-Star team again. The 29-year-old second baseman is ready to help lead the Tigers back to the MLB postseason.

Riley Green limited strikeouts, hit more than 40 home runs

Riley Green struck out 201 times during the 2025 MLB season, but that will not continue this season. Green will limit his strikeouts with better plate discipline while hitting over 40 home runs. The Tigers outfielder would breakout and become one of the favorites to win AL MVP. Green is ready for his breakout moment, and it could come in 2026.

Framber Valdez bounces back with sub-3.00 ERA

Valdez was Detroit’s biggest addition in free agency, and it will pay off with a speculative season. Valdez would have a sub-3.00 ERA and finish in the top 5 for AL Cy Young Award voting. After a disappointing 2025 MLB campaign, the former Houston Astros ace is set to come to Detroit. Even though Valdez is behind Skubal in the rotation, he will post No. 1 starting pitcher numbers.

Justin Verlander pitches well with sub-4.00 ERA

Verlander’s return to Detroit will be a successful one. Verlander will avoid the injured list while posting a sub-4.00 ERA during the 2026 season. The three-time AL Cy Young Award winner will have his moments, but he won’t derail. Verlander is back where he belongs with the Tigers, and he will start in the postseason.

Kevin McGonigle wins AL Rookie of the Year

Kevin McGonigle made the Opening Day roster and should produce as expected. McGonigal would be a middle-of-the-order hitter in the Tigers’ lineup and would win the AL Rookie of the Year award. The 21-year-old shortstop will have a slow start but will heat up in the summer months. McGonigal is ready for the big leagues and will prove why Detroit promoted him.

Tarik Skubal wins third consecutive AL Cy Young Award

Skubal will be joining a very prestigious list in 2026. The Tigers ace would go on to win the 2026 AL Cy Young Award in spectacular fashion, becoming the first AL pitcher to win the award in three consecutive seasons. Skubal would join Greg Maddux and Randy Johnson as the only MLB pitchers to win three consecutive Cy Young Awards.

Detroit Tigers win AL Central for first time since 2014

For the first time since 2014, the Tigers would win the AL Central. Detroit enters the 2026 MLB season as a favorite to win the division, and it will look to live up to those expectations. In fact, the Tigers would be the top-2 seed in the American League, earning a bye into the Wild Card Round for the first time in the new format.

Detroit Tigers lose to Los Angeles Dodgers in 2026 World Series

Detroit will make the 2026 World Series; However, it won’t end with a trophy. Despite a strong performance from the rotation, the Tigers would lose to the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games. Outside of McGonigle and Green, the Tigers’ offense will not live up to expectations, leading to major changes during the 2026 MLB offseason.

READ MORE: Detroit Tigers starter Justin Verlander opens up about retirement plans ahead of 2026 season

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

The Denver Nuggets have lost twice in their last four games and will look to regain momentum when they take on the 35-36 Portland Trail Blazers at home. Portland is on a three-game winning streak that has pushed them into play-in territory.

They are currently in 9th place in the East and are tied 1-1 with Denver in the season series. However, the Nuggets defeated them 157-103 in their last meeting and are the clear favorites to pick up another win on paper.

They are trailing several teams and are currently in 5th place in the Western Conference with a 43-28 record. The following predictions are based on odds by DraftKings.

Blazers vs. Nuggets Odds

Trail Blazers: +8.5 (-110)

Nuggets: -8.5 (-110)

Over: 241.5 (-110)

Under: 241.5 (-110)

Blazers vs. Nuggets Major Injuries

Portland remains shorthanded in key areas. Damian Lillard is out for the season, while Shaddon Sharp is also sidelined. Jerami Grant and Witt Krejci are both listed as day-to-day and their availability will be a gametime decision.

In comparison, Denver is almost completely healthy. With only Peyton Watson listed as questionable, their entire list of stars are fit and active for it.

Blazers vs. Nuggets Betting Trends

Denver is not having his most impressive season yet. However, they have been strong at home and fans can expect another win based on the following trends:

• The Nuggets are 4-1 in their last five home games.
• Denver averages 120.7 points per game (No. 1 in the NBA).
• The Nuggets lead the league in three-point percentage (39.2%).

The Trail Blazers, on the other hand, have their work cut out for them, and may face a mountain to climb in Denver.

• The Trail Blazers are 9-11 ATS as road underdogs.
• Portland’s average scoring margin in those games is -11.3.
• The Blazers rank 23rd in offensive rating this season.

Their most recent match ended in a massive 54-point victory for the Nuggets. However, with the series tied at 1-1 and recent momentum, the Trail Blazers will be hoping to pull off an upset, although their injury outlook is also worrisome.

Keys to the Blazers vs. Nuggets matchup

The Nuggets have one of the most efficient offenses in the league. Led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, Denver has the highest-scoring offense in the NBA (120.7 ppg).

Jokic averaged 28.1 points on 57.4% shooting and scored 32 points in less than 30 minutes during the blowout win. The Blazers rank 17th in opponent points in the paint, which plays directly into Jokic’s strengths as both a scorer and facilitator.

On the periphery, the difference is even more pronounced. Denver is leading at 39.2% from three (No. 1 in the NBA), while Portland is 29th at 33.8%. So, Denver not only has in-form stars, but they also have a more productive system. Despite the recent momentum, especially in the absence of Lillard and Sharp, the Trail Blazers have struggled to generate points.

Blazers vs. Nuggets Predictions and Picks

The Nuggets will try to dictate proceedings from the beginning. Jok can be expected to take charge once again. However, even if Portland manages to knock him out, Denver’s shooting talent and ability to slow down turnovers is bound to cause problems.

Murray scored 31 points in the last game and the Nuggets have more than enough shooters to cause problems all night long. However, the Trail Blazers will try to cause problems of their own.

Denny Advija, Donovan Clingan and Jerami Grant have all scored while Scooter Henderson and Jrue Holiday will also contribute. The Trail Blazers may need to shoot better than in recent games, leaving Jokic and company to go the distance.

Final Blazers-Nuggets predictions and picks: Denver Nuggets -8.5 (-110); Under 241.5 (-110)

detroit tigers

1. pull skubble
2. framber valdez
3. jack flaherty
4. casey corn
5. Justin Verlander

With one of the most lethal 1-2 combos in the majors, the Tigers landed top free agent Framber Valdez to prepare for the growing possibility that star Tarik Skubal will wear a different uniform next year. The two would operate a cycle that in the past would have been viewed as squabbles and “causing chaos”.

It feels like 2011 again with Verlander in a Tigers jersey. It would be nice to see the veteran player finish his career with the team that started it all. It remains to be seen how much he will be able to contribute. Mize will return after having a breakout year for Detroit, helping solidify the rotation behind Skubal. After exercising his player option for 2026, Flaherty will look to bounce back from the ’25 campaign that hurt his upcoming free agency.

The Tigers are now in a position to win. With Skubal’s departure after this season, they need to take advantage of the opportunity they have received for the first time since defeating the San Diego Padres in the 1984 Fall Classic. If they don’t manage this this year, they could be out of contention fast.

cleveland patron

1. Tanner Bibi
2. gavin williams
3. Slade Cecconi
4. logan allen
5. parker messick

The Guardians have quietly put together an incredibly solid pitching staff. There’s no clear Cy Young winner here, but they field some of the best quality starters you’ll see day in and day out, and always have a chance on offense.

It seems likely that Bibby will get the opening day start, but Williams has also been tremendous. Top prospect Parker Messick debuted last year with great results. Granted, this was only in a seven-game sample size, but hopefully he impressed enough to earn a back end spot.

After shocking Detroit last season, they have a chance to run the AL Central this season. If the pitching staff can stay the course, they will be in contention all year long.

kansas city royals

1. cole ragans
2. Seth Lugo
3. Michael Wacha
4. chris bubic
5. noah cameron
6. Ryan Burgert

Kansas City, on the other hand, has not been quiet about its rotation strength. The pitching staff for the Royals is made up of aces one after another. Ragans was one of the best starters in MLB in 2024 but struggled with injuries last year. Lugo and Wacha provide a veteran presence that still manages to be effective on the mound. Bubic is trying to build on his first All-Star season from last year.

The Royals are looking to build a six-man rotation, with Cameron and Burgert performing admirably in their rookie campaigns last season. If each earns a spot this spring, it seems likely they will take all six spots.

As a fun side note, some updates were made to Kauffman Stadium this off-season, with Kansas City shortening the outfield dimensions. There have been a number of estimates showing how many more home runs would have been hit last year if these new dimensions were in place, but as ballparks become increasingly hitter-friendly, these pitchers will have to work around it.

minnesota twins

1. joe ryan
2. Bailey Ober
3. Simeon Woods Richardson
4. taj bradley
5. mick abel

Despite Minnesota sending away a ton of players at the 2025 trade deadline, they kept most of their pitchers. Thankfully, top player Joe Ryan will return at the top of this rotation. Unfortunately, co-star Pablo Lopez will miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery last month.

That being said, Ober and Woods Richardson will return after serviceable seasons last year. They will try to improve low level performance. The same is true for Bradley and Abel, as both performed well for their former teams (the Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies, respectively) before struggling after being traded to the Twins.

If he can throw serviceable innings, it will go a long way in relieving Ryan’s responsibility as the only ace pitcher on this staff for Minnesota.

chicago white sox

1. shane smith
2. david martin
3. Eric Fedde
4. sean burke
5. Anthony’s

Shane Smith has been appointed as the Opening Day starter for the Sox, the rest are really up for grabs. It’s possible Martin, Fedde, Burke and Kay remain but Chicago has some other options. They clearly improved from a historically poor 2024 season, but still struggled. Hopefully they can continue to improve this year.

Three of the five are returners, with only Fedde and Kay being free-agent pickups this offseason. After gaining dominance in foreign countries, they will try to prove themselves. He has not pitched in MLB since 2023. If this staff can do a better job of limiting runs, it will go a long way in keeping Chicago competitive.

toronto blue jays

1. kevin gosman
2. dialing off
3. trey yesways
4. shane bieber
5. Cody Ponce
6. max shazer

The AL East’s slaughter is in the headlines in Toronto. After losing their first World Series in 32 years, they were not satisfied with making a run back to it. They signed strikeout artist Dylan Cease to a historic 7-year, $210 million contract. He then signed a short deal with Ponce, as he had spent the last few years pitching in Japan and Korea.

But Gausman is returning, Bieber exercised his player option, and Scherzer re-signed with the club. After an exciting postseason debut, Trey Yesavage will return to the pitch this season. His slider demolished batters in the playoffs and had a chance to do the same in his first full year in MLB.

The club will likely use Scherzer as a depth option, but have talked about a possible six-man rotation. Whatever the case, Jays fans have a pitching staff they can get excited about.

New York Yankees

1. max fried
2. cam schlitler
3. louis gil
4. Ryan Weathers
5. Will Warren

With Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon recovering from injuries this spring, they won’t return to the Yankees until 2026. Until then, Fried, Schlitzer and Gill make a formidable (and young) front three. New York traded for Weathers but he and Warren became depth guys after Cole and Rodon returned.

It’s been an up-and-down season for the Yanks when it comes to pitching. With an elite offense that keeps them in games, New York doesn’t have to rely on their starters too much. But the front three are elite.

Fried has had a great first year in Pinstripes and is looking to build on that. Gil missed the majority of the 2025 season after winning the AL Rookie of the Year award in ’24, and is currently struggling in the Grapefruit League. Schlitler is looking to build on an electric performance in the postseason. If those three can be effective, the pitching staff will be filled out when the Giants return later this year.

boston red sox

1. Garrett Crochet
2. ranger suarez
3. sonny gray
4. brian bello
5. johan oviedo

this is a Very Different rotation for Boston than last year. In addition to Ace Crockett and Bello, the club added top pitcher Ranger Suárez in free agency, and traded for Gray and Oviedo to strengthen the staff.

They lost some depth in the trade of Kyle Harrison to the Milwaukee Brewers, but they still have top prospects Peyton Tolls and Conley Early stuck in the minors. Both have impressed this spring and will be starters at the big league level this year.

baltimore orioles

1. trevor rogers
2. kyle bradish
3. Shane Baz
4. jack eflin
5. Chris Bassitt
6. dean kramer

To say that Baltimore has been aggressive this offseason would be a major understatement. After finishing last in the AL East, the front office pursued top free agents in their offense, but not so much in their pitching staff. They traded top pitching prospect Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Angels.

That being said, rotation is clearly better. They re-signed Eflin, brought in Bassitt to eat innings, and traded for Tampa Bay Rays veteran Shane Baz. This is a staff that can and should shorten games. Rodgers, Brady and Kramer are returning contributors to the starting group.

tampa bay rays

1. Drew Rasmussen
2. Ryan Peppiatt
3. Shane McClanahan
4. steven matz
5. nick martinez

With the loss of Shane Baz to the Orioles, Tampa Bay will get another look at McClanahan’s return after two years away from MLB. Peppiatt and Rasmussen are also returning after solid campaigns in 2025.

The Rays’ lone pitching moves came in signing free agents Matz and Martínez to short-term contracts. It’s not an entirely awe-inspiring group, and Tampa Bay is struggling to stay afloat in a crowded and bloodthirsty AL East. But they have a solid attack led by star third baseman Junior Caminero. As long as the starters are serviceable, the Rays will be able to remain competitive in most games.

seattle mariners

1. brian woo
2. logan gilbert
3. luis castillo
4. george kirby
5. bryce miller

With perhaps the best rotation in the entire American League (and certainly the best in the AL West), the Mariners are seeking a return to the postseason after coming close to reaching the Fall Classic for the first time in club history. Running behind a historic offense and superstar catcher Cal Raley, the pitching staff became somewhat anonymous.

But that’s not because they weren’t producing, they just dominated opponents all year. Wu and Gilbert are sharing co-ace duties with Castillo serving as a formidable third base. Kirby and Miller factor in as back end options, who (at most other clubs) would be front end options in the rotation.

Houston Astros

1. hunter brown
2. Tatsuya Imai
3. mike burroughs
4. Christian Xavier
5. spencer arigetti
6. Lance McCullers Jr.

The Astros lost longtime veteran Framber Valdez to the Detroit Tigers in free agency. But Brown’s emergence as a legitimate ace who can anchor a rotation helps things for Houston. One of their big free-agent pickups this offseason was top international pitcher Tatsuya Imai.

Everyone else is returning to Houston except Mike Burroughs, who was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates this offseason. They have talked about a possible six-man rotation to lighten the workload of their starting players, which makes sense. There’s not much inspiring pitching outside of those first two options. The Astros need to do anything they can to help the back end of that rotation (and keep Brown and Imai healthy).

Exercise

1. louis severino
2. jeffrey springs
3. aaron siwale
4. luis morales
5. jacob lopez

The Achilles’ heel of athletics, the starting group is rough. Headlined by Severino and Springs, this is an uninspired group. The young offensive core certainly makes up for it and will make for some interesting back-and-forth at Sutter Health this year.

Morales had a strong rookie campaign after being eliminated from Cuba in 2023. Hopefully he can carry it forward and become a major force for the A’s to shorten games.

Texas Rangers

1. nathan iovaldi
2. jacob degrom
3. mackenzie gore
4. jack ladder
5. Kumar Rocker

This rotation is shocking to the elite class. After having the lowest team ERA in baseball last season, the Rangers thought it was not enough and traded for ace Mackenzie Gore of the Washington Nationals. In doing so they gave up five prospects for Washington but gained a young, controllable starter who can play behind Eovaldi and deGrom.

Rocker struggled a bit in his second year in MLB. He pitched a career-high 64 1/3 innings and posted a 5.74 ERA. If he can find his rhythm and take the mound consistently, the Rangers will have the problem every team expects: too many good pitchers.

Los Angeles Angels

1. Yusei Kikuchi
2. jose soriano
3. reed detmers
4. grayson rodriguez
5. alec manoah

It’s not looking great for the Angels, but there is hope! Trading outfielder Taylor Ward for young prospect Rodriguez gives some hope for the future of the pitching team. Everyone else is returning except Manoah, who was a low-risk, high-reward pickup in the offseason. He has struggled massively this spring, but the Halos don’t have many other options and will need to put together whatever they can get to build a pitching staff.

milwaukee brewers

1. chad patrick
2. Jakub Misiorowski
3. Brandon Woodruff
4. kyle harrison
5. Brandon Sproat

With reports that Quinn Priester is dealing with a wrist injury that will keep him out of the start of the season, Patrick will likely start on Opening Day. After trading Freddy Peralta to the New York Mets, the rotation depth in Milwaukee is a little light.

In exchange for Peralta, the Brewing Crew added top prospect Sprott to their starting lineup. Harrison was included in the trade that sent Caleb Durbin to the Boston Red Sox. Additionally, Woodruff is looking to return for his first full season back from injury (although his status to start this year is still somewhat in question).

chicago cubs

1. Matthew Boyd
2. cade horton
3. Edward Cabrera
4. shota imanaga
5. Colin Rea

The Cubs are mostly running this aside from their trade for Cabrera with the Miami Marlins. Boyd has been named the Opening Day starter for Chicago, while Horton looks to build on his incredible rookie campaign.

Imanaga had a brief stint with the QBs in free agency before ultimately rejoining the club. Rea is the final piece of a very strong starting group for Chicago. Between the pitching and their elite defense, expect some low-scoring games in the Windy City that could end up with the Cubs running the NL Central.

pittsburgh pirates

1. Paul Skenes
2. mitch keller
3. bubba chandler
4. braxton ashcraft
5. jose urquidi

Powered by one of the game’s best pitchers, Pittsburgh is trying to improve on a disappointing 2025. Skanes and Keller are leading the way, and top pitching prospect Bubba Chandler looks to build on last season’s mediocre MLB debut.

Ashcraft is trying to recover from a tough ’25. After suffering through a number of injuries over the past few years, he is back to full health after two years in remission from the forearm problem that sidelined him in 2024. The Pirates signed former Detroit Tigers starter Urquidi to a short-term deal to add a playoff-tested pitcher to the group.

St. Louis Cardinals

1. Matthew Liberator
2. dustin may
3. Michael McGreevy
4. andre pallante
5. kyle leahy

St. Louis lost Miles Mikolas to free agency and traded Sonny Gray to the Red Sox. Apart from this he doesn’t have much else. Signing Mays and retaining Liberatore helps, but the Cards need some pitchers to eat innings. It will become more difficult to shorten the games from what they currently have.

With a strong and young offense, it will be exciting to watch games in St. Louis without the pressure of hoping for a playoff berth. They will get useful outings from these five, which will give the club a good chance of winning most of the games.

cincinnati reds

1. Andrew Abbott
2. Nick Lodolo
3. brady singer
4. Chase Burns
5. rate loader

News broke this week that star pitcher Hunter Greene could be out until the end of July after undergoing surgery to remove bone chips from his arm. The Reds still have a solid pitching staff without him. Abbott, Lodolo and Singer are solid contributors, along with impressive rookie Chase Burns.

Losing Jack Littell to free agency will certainly hurt, as he was a solid innings-eater for the club. Problems with his forearm kept Loewer out of action in 2025 after an impressive 2024 campaign. After a surprise postseason appearance for Cincinnati, they will be hoping to bounce back from this starting group.

los angeles dodgers

1. yoshinobu yamamoto
2. tyler glasnow
3. shohei ohtani
4. Emmett Sheehan
5. roki sasaki

One of the most elite rotations in baseball (and back-to-back World Series champions) will look to dominate this year as they seek a return to the Fall Classic. Led by World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers will try to fight against a cadre of injuries.

One of which is two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell, who will begin the season on the injured list. After battling soreness in the postseason, Snell has battled shoulder problems this offseason. But as long as their pitchers are ready in October, they don’t have to worry too much.

San Diego Padres

1. Nick Pivetta
2. michael king
3. Randy Vasquez
4. german marquess
5. walker buehler

San Diego enters the season with one of the weaker rotations in baseball. But it has a very high ceiling. Pivetta will look to add to last year’s incredible surge as the Kings bounce back from an injury-filled 2025.

Joe Musgrove would like to do the same but it is more likely he will not be with the club on Opening Day. Randy Vasquez will replace him at third, leaving two spots vacant. The rotation race seems to be leaning toward Marquez and Buehler for the first few weeks, but the Friars have plenty of options to choose from after trading away general manager AJ Preller.

san francisco giants

1. logan webb
2. Robbie Ray
3. adrian houser
4. tyler mahle
5. landen raupp

Faced with a desperate need for pitching this offseason, the Giants made two inexpensive additions in Houser and Mahle. With a largely complete offense, it was strange for them to spend on hitters but not spend as much on starting pitchers.

But the rotation front is formidable. Webb and Ray are some of the best starters in the National League, with Webb currently pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Hopefully the inexpensive additions will help San Francisco fix its starter group.

Arizona Diamondbacks

1. zack gallen
2. merrill kelly
3. Brandon Pfaadt
4. Eduardo Rodriguez
5. rain nelson

The Dubs are essentially running it back on the pitching front. After Kelly was traded to the Texas Rangers, they brought him back along with Gallen in free agency. They also signed Michael Soroka this offseason as a depth option.

Arizona’s starting pitching group last year was mediocre, but was capped by an above-average offense. The offense may not be as great with the departures of Josh Naylor and slugger Eugenio Suarez.

colorado rockies

1. kyle freeland
2. Michael Lorenzen
3. jose quintana
4. Tomoyuki Sugano
5. Chase Dollander

The Rockies’ only real loss this offseason was Colorado veteran Jermaine Marquez. He did a great job of adding to the rotation with returners Freeland and Hollander. They selected Lorenzen, Quintana and Sugano in free agency. Of the three, Lorenzen is producing great results as a starter for Team Italy in the WBC.

Neither of them are particularly top-dollar fetchers, but they add stability to one of the worst pitching groups last season. The caveat with this is the difficulty of pitching at Coors Field. Pitchers whose home park is a mile above sea level will naturally find it more difficult to limit runs.

toronto blue jays

• c alejandro kirk
• 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• 2B Ernie Clement
• SS Andres Jimenez
• 3B Kazuma Okamoto
• Jesus Sanchez’s
• OF Daulton Varsho
• Edison Barger’s
• DH George Springer

After losing the World Series (by mere inches) to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Blue Jays were not satisfied with simply “running it back”. Last season, they gave superstar Wlady Jr. a chance to keep him in Toronto for his entire career.

Despite losing second baseman Bo Bichette in free agency, they were in the Kyle Tucker sweepstakes, signed one of the big international free agents in Okamoto, and traded top prospect Joey Loperfido for Sanchez to play in the outfield.

The Jays are hungry to get back to the Fall Classic after coming so close to winning it all, and they have certainly made the right steps to repeat as American League champions.

New York Yankees

• C Austin Wells
• 1B Ben Rice
• 2B Jazz Chisholm Jr.
• SS Anthony Volpe
• 3B Ryan McMahon
• Cody Bellinger’s
• Trent Grisham’s
• Aaron Judge’s
• DH Giancarlo Stanton

New York, on the other hand, is content to run it back. That’s a bit minimalistic for a team that will have top player Gerrit Cole returning from injury. But not much has changed on the offensive side.

Perennial MVP Aaron Judge and Stanton will definitely (as usual) hit a ton of home runs. Chisholm Jr. is trying to go 50-50 for the second time in MLB history. And the Yanks did a good job of retaining free agent Cody Bellinger despite lengthy talks about his departure.

Whether or not they achieve all of those goals, this is a club that won 94 games last season and is seeking a return to the Fall Classic in 2024 after losing to Los Angeles. They’re definitely ready to make a run for it.

boston red sox

• c charles narvaez
• 1B Willson Contreras
• 2B Marcelo Meyer
• SS Trevor Story
• 3B Caleb Durbin
• jerren duran’s
• sedan rafela
• Roman Anthony’s
• DH Willier Abreu

To say the Sox had an active offseason would be to sell general manager Craig Breslow a bit. After clinching a postseason berth in 2025, they lost to the rival Yankees in a three-game wild card series.

Their only major departure from the starting group is Alex Bregman who will be replaced by NL Rookie of the Year finalist Durbin at third base. The crowded outfield lineup will make the math difficult (especially for outfielder Masataka Yoshida). But this is arguably the Sox’s greatest strength, with Duran, Rafaela, Anthony and Abreu being some of the best outfielders in the game.

Additionally the Red Sox are excited to see Story have a full healthy season at shortstop, with Contreras starting behind Tristan Casas for the first time. This club’s attack looks stronger than in recent years, and (in a competitive division like this) they will need all the help they can get.

baltimore orioles

• c adlerushman
• 1b pete alonso
• 2B Blaze Alexander
• SS Gunnar Henderson
• 3B Kobe Mayo
• Taylor Ward’s
• Colton Cowser’s
• dylan beavers
• DH Tyler O’Neill

Last season was a major disappointment for Baltimore, with the club finishing last in the AL East after making the postseason in both 2023 and ’24. This led to the firing of manager Brandon Hyde midway through the 2025 season.

The O’s needed to prove something to their fans in the offseason, and they did. They traded pitching prospect Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Angels for outfielder Taylor Ward. They then signed top free agent Pete Alonso to take care of the cold corner. They finished their lineup moves by trading Alexander to play second while Jackson Holiday is dealing with an injury.

They have had great young players come through (Henderson, Rutschman, Cowser, Beavers), but their results last season were disappointing and inconsistent. If they can put it together again, and the pitching holds up, they will run the AL East standings once again.

tampa bay rays

• Nick Fortes
• 1B Jonathan Aranda
• 2B Gavin Lux
• SS Taylor Walls
• 3B Junior Caminero
• Jake Fraley’s
• Cedric Mullins’s
• OF Chandler Simpson
• DH yandy diaz

So far, the Rays have their star slugger, with All-Star third baseman Junior Caminero returning after the Electric World Baseball Classic with the Dominican Republic. But there isn’t a lot of help behind that.

They traded him to the Pittsburgh Pirates to play second base after dealing Brandon Lowe, and they signed Mullins to help their outfield. Speedster Chandler Simpson will return to the club after surprising MLB with his ability to run around the diamond, and Yandy Diaz provides the club with a helpful veteran presence.

Don’t get your hopes up too quickly for a Rays postseason run just because they’re back at Tropicana Field. But, at least, there is hope for the near future.

los angeles dodgers

• c will smith
• 1B Freddy Freeman
• 2b hyesong kim
• SS Mookie Bates
• 3B Max Muncy
• Teoscar Hernandez’s
• by andy pages
• kyle tucker’s
• DH Shohei Ohtani

The Dodgers are (more or less) on a rebound from last season. For the two-time defending World Series champions, this is a solid strategy. They have one of the best lineups in baseball and undoubtedly Shohei Ohtani is the best player on the planet.

They solved their problems in the outfield by signing top free agent Kyle Tucker to a 4-year, $240 million contract. He projects to be the starting right fielder with the DH slot closed for Ohtani.

San Diego Padres

• C Freddy Fermin
• 1B Gavin Sheets
• 2B Jake Cronenworth
• SS Xander Bogarts
• 3b manny chado
• Ramon Laureano’s
• Jackson Merrill’s
• Fernando Tatis Jr.
• DH miguel andujar

After making the postseason two years in a row, the Padres struggled to get anything done this offseason (largely due to the payroll crisis that seems never-ending in San Diego).

Even with the departures of Luis Arraez and Ryan O’Hearn, their offense was mostly filled out. Nevertheless, they added Andújar as a powerful right bat. The Friars have said throughout the offseason that the first base void will likely be filled internally. Sheets is projected to start in that role in 2025 after his breakout season.

san francisco giants

• c patrick bailey
• 1B Bryce Aldridge
• 2B Luis Arraez
• SS Willie Adams
• 3B Matt Chapman
• Heliot Ramos’s
• Harrison Bader’s
• jung ho li ki
• DH Rafael Devers

Apart from the gaps on the left side of their infield, the Giants’ offense was fairly set. Devers factors into becoming the primary DH so top-prospect Bryce Aldridge can get reps at first.

Arraez was the big acquisition by San Francisco in the off-season, signing a 1-year deal to become their everyday second baseman. Arraez has spent the offseason working on his fielding as his weak defense has hurt his free agency case.

Arizona Diamondbacks

• C Gabriel Moreno
• 1B Carlos Santana
• 2B Kettle Marte
• SS Geraldo Perdomo
• 3B Nolan Arenado
• Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• Alec Thomas’s
• Corbin Carroll’s
• DH Pavin Smith

Dubex made some solid contributions to their offense this offseason. After incredible seasons from perennial stars like Carroll, Marte and Perdomo, they traded for 10-time Gold Glover Nolan Arenado and selected veteran Carlos Santana in free agency.

Unfortunately, trading out Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suarez at last year’s trade deadline didn’t help them. But it’s unlikely either would have re-signed with the club in free agency. Replacing them with Arenado and Santana is certainly an offensive meltdown, but they will fill the spots serviceably.

colorado rockies

• C Hunter Goodman
• 1B TJ Rumfield
• 2B Willie Castro
• SS Ezequiel Tovar
• 3B Kyle Carros
• Jordan Beck’s
• Mickey Moniak’s
• Brenton Doyle’s
• DH Zack Wayne

A historically poor 2025 encouraged the Rocks to build on the good parts of last season. They have an abundance of young talent to be excited about. Most of their contributors are returning along with veteran utility-man Willie Castro.

Colorado adds Paul DePodesta moneyball His front office gained fame for leading baseball operations. After finishing with a 43-119 record last year, expectations are incredibly low for Colorado. If they can do anything to improve on that then they will consider this season a success.

The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Las Vegas Motor Speedway this weekend for the fifth points race of the season. After an exciting race at Phoenix, expectations are relatively high for what the Pennzoil 400 might yield on Sunday afternoon.

Let’s take a look at our NASCAR predictions for the Pennzoil 400 on Sunday.

William Byron is pole winner in Las Vegas

Hendrick Motorsports comes to Las Vegas hoping to change things. In 2026, the team does not have a single stage win or pole to its name. Things need to change this weekend, and we believe that will happen starting on Saturday thanks to William Byron and the No. 24 team. Byron has the second-best average starting position (5.2) in Las Vegas since the 2023 season, with some of his best starts coming in the spring races. Hendrick would lead the driver grid for the Pennzoil 400, with Byron and Kyle Larson qualifying first and second respectively.

RELATED: NASCAR Power Rankings 2026, 10 best NASCAR drivers entering Las Vegas

Ross Chastain is Stage 1 winner in Las Vegas

Unfortunately for Ross Chastain and the No. 1 team, they are now in a slightly more dire spot on points. A crash at Phoenix last weekend and a blown tire at COTA resulted in only 23 combined points in the last two races, dropping him to 23rd in the standings. Luckily, Chastain has a great history at this track, as evidenced by her 9.3 average finishing position since 2023, which ranks second among active drivers. He has also performed particularly well in the spring, with a Stage 1 win in 2022 and at least a top-3 stage result in 2025 and twice in 2023. Chastain would get 10 points heading into Sunday with a Stage 1 win.

RELATED: NASCAR Odds Las Vegas, 4 Picks for Pennzoil 400

Christopher Bell wins Stage 2

Christopher Bell is having his best performance of the season, which is saying something, as he finished third at COTA. The No. 20 was the fastest car on the track last Sunday and while the conditions are different at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, this is a track where Bell has an average finishing position of 9.5 (third in the Cup Series), with four top-5 finishes and a remarkable average starting position of 6.3 since 2023. He won Stage 2 in October 2024 and finished in the top-five of both stages during the spring race in 2023. We are predicting a Stage 2 win for the No. 20 team on Sunday.

RELATED: NASCAR weekend schedule Las Vegas

Daniel Suarez made it to the top-10

In a year of make or break for Daniel Suarez, he is making the most of his opportunities behind the wheel of the No. 7 car for Spire Motorsports. He finished 13th at Daytona and then fifth at Atlanta, and two weeks later he qualified fourth at Phoenix. While he had finished 30th the previous Sunday, this result came as he was racing at the front of the field when his car crashed. Suarez now heads to Las Vegas, a track where he has recorded three top-10 finishes in his last six starts, and he finished second in the spring race last season. We’re calling for a top 10 finish for Suarez at the Pennzoil 400.

RELATED: NASCAR Cup Series Entry List Las Vegas 2026

Kyle Larson wins the Pennzoil 400

It’s time for Hendrick Motorsports to get to victory lane for the first time this season. It would be fitting for Kyle Larson to do so at a track where he has won three times, including consecutive races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (October 2023 and March 2024). It’s also worth noting that with 568 laps led, Larson has led more than twice as many laps since the spring race in 2023 as the next closest driver, William Byron (258). Larson is coming off Sunday’s Pennzoil 400 win at Las Vegas, giving Hendrick his first win of 2026.

Read more: Best NASCAR races 2026, ranking every Cup Series race this season

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 Saturday night, WWE makes its final stop on the road to WrestleMania 42 with the 2026 edition of Elimination Chamber. This year’s event, of course, includes men’s and women’s Chamber matches to pit opponents for WWE Champion Drew McIntyre and WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill at April’s mega-event.

However, Becky Lynch will also put her Intercontinental belt on the line against her arch rival AJ Lee and CM Punk will defend the World Heavyweight Title against Finn Balor. There will definitely be a surprise or two in the company’s latest premium live event. With that in mind, we offer five predictions for potential surprises in the Elimination Chamber.

Dominic Mysterio defeated Finn Balor and CM Punk

Trouble has been going on inside Judgment Day for months. However, despite the ups and downs and injuries the group has remained united. However, it looks like a break is on the way and it is likely that Baylor will be out.

He is certain to lose his title rematch with Punk on Saturday. But will he lose clean for the second time in a row? It wouldn’t do the Irishman any favors if the company wanted to change his status and set up a special match at WrestleMania. Don’t be surprised if it costs his brother, Dom Mysterio, their match this weekend at Judgment Day, and it may not be due to an “accident.”

Raquel Rodriguez won the Women’s Elimination Chamber Match

Talking about Judgment Day, the bond between Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez was broken at the Royal Rumble when Liv Morgan eliminated the latter. Hopefully WWE will delve deeper into those issues and create a big controversy at Judgment Day on the road to WrestleMania.

Rodriguez is not a favorite to win the Women’s Chamber match on Saturday. But if he did, it would be interesting to have two members of the faction competing for championship gold at ‘Mania. Especially if one wins and the other doesn’t. Furthermore, Rodriguez deserves a major match at this event after some very good work over the past six months

LA Knight won the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match

Heading into Elimination Chamber 2026, reports suggest that Cody Rhodes will win the Men’s Chamber match. However, WWE fans don’t seem thrilled with the months-long feud between Rhodes and McIntyre continuing into April. And lower-than-expected ticket sales for WrestleMania may confirm that opinion. This match needs an unexpected winner.

This is why WWE could go in a completely unexpected direction and make fans happy by giving LA Knight a win in the Men’s Chamber match. This would add new excitement to ‘Mania and give Knight the push many fans have been wanting for the last year. It also allows the company to take Rhodes on unexpected paths to events.

Danhausen is Inside the Elimination Chamber Mystery Box

An outside-the-ring incident at Elimination Chamber reveals what is in the mystery box that cannot be opened until Saturday night. There has been much speculation about what or who might be inside, including a returning Chris Jericho.

However, reports claiming that “Y2J” is still under AEW contract make this unlikely. That’s why a different AEW alum may emerge, and that would be the very good and very bad guy known as Danhausen. Given that something has been inside the box for two weeks, it makes more sense for it to have a strange supernatural character. Not a living, breathing person.

AJ Lee defeated Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Title

Since AJ Lee has been getting the better of Becky Lynch in their months-long rivalry, most expect the champion to successfully defend her title on Saturday night. However, we think the company is going in a different direction.

With Elimination Chamber taking place in Lee’s hometown of Chicago, it is more likely that he will get the win. A rematch would then be arranged at WrestleMania, where Lynch would seek revenge in the final match of their feud.

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

When the Oklahoma City Thunder got off to a hot start and won 24 of their first 25 games, it seemed like it was a foregone conclusion that they would return to the NBA Finals.

But while the Thunder still have the best record in the league at 45-15, they have looked strong over the past few weeks, especially with injuries to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams.

Oklahoma City is eager to defend its championship, but that won’t be the case for NBA legend Dwyane Wade, as he predicted on “The Zach Lowe Show” that the San Antonio Spurs and Detroit Pistons will face off in this year’s NBA Finals.

“I’ve watched the Spurs, I’ve watched some of their games. Even though I don’t think they should be ready, they should be a team over the next three years, but they do things sometimes. You look at their roster, you look at their players, with the right matchups, they’ll be tough to beat,” Wade said.

The Thunder have lost three times in four meetings with the Spurs this season, including the NBA Cup semifinals, in which San Antonio ended OKC’s 16-game winning streak.

As for the Pistons, Wade, who works as an analyst for NBC and Prime, said their depth will carry them to the final round.

“I watched Detroit the other night in New York without (Jalen) Duren and without (Isaiah) Stewart, and I didn’t see them lose once. I said, ‘This team is too deep.’ They know their style, they know their game, they know how to win. It’s hard when a team doesn’t have to figure it out,” the three-time champion explained.

The Thunder lost to the Pistons on Wednesday, although they were significantly weaker without Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein and Ajay Mitchell.

Oklahoma City will have another tough test on Friday against the Denver Nuggets.

The Athletic has live coverage of Canada vs Czechia in the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey quarterfinal.

MILAN — The quarterfinals at the Olympic men’s hockey tournament are set following Tuesday’s qualifying-round action. Here’s a look at all four of Wednesday’s matchups.

No. 7 Sweden vs. No. 2 USA

There’s no shame in silver. But for the world’s greatest hockey players, particularly those from one of the world’s greatest hockey countries, there’s not exactly a ton of pride in it, either.

“I’ve got a silver medal at home,” Sweden’s Gabriel Landeskog said. “And I guess it’s something that sits there. Doesn’t mean as much as if it would have been a gold medal. If it’s a gold medal, it’s very different. We all want to win; that’s what we were kind of bred to do.”

Sweden’s road to gold starts in earnest Wednesday night against the United States, a gold-medal-level matchup that’s happening in the quarterfinals thanks to Slovakia’s surprising Group B victory. After three round-robin games and Tuesday’s perfunctory 5-1 rout of Latvia, the real do-or-die games start now. And while Canada and the United States — the other two gold-medal favorites — cruised into the quarters with three easy wins and a bye, Team Sweden has scuffled and shuffled its way here.

And they might be better off for it.

“You can cruise through it and then all of a sudden you’re tested in a way you weren’t prepared for,” Sweden coach Sam Hallam said. “It gives you a better feeling now that we’ve had these small things go wrong every game and had to look at things, adjust small things.”

It’s something Landeskog is getting a taste of with the Colorado Avalanche this season. After one of the best starts in NHL history — 31-2-7 — the Avs have lost nine of their last 15 games. Hardly a crisis, but potentially beneficial in the long run.

“That’s the same as over there, same as in the NHL,” Landeskog said. “You’re going to run into adversity at some point, and how you manage that is how you’re going to define yourself as a group, and how you handle that is up to us in the locker room. We’ve stumbled in the tournament so far. We’ve also shown some really good things, so for us, it’s just a matter of continuing to build, understanding that hopefully we’ve got another week to go here and understanding that we need to be playing our best hockey at the most important time, which is right now.”

The U.S., meanwhile, caught something of a bad break by virtue of Slovakia’s group win. Instead of facing a second-tier team, the second-seeded Americans get a seventh-seeded Swedish team full of NHL stars.

“(Wednesday) could be our last day,” U.S. defenseman Quinn Hughes said. “So we’ve got to be prepared. Playing a really good team.”

Based on Tuesday’s practice, U.S. coach Mike Sullivan seems to have locked his lines in place, with Jack Eichel centering Brady and Matthew Tkachuk, Auston Matthews centering Jake Guentzel and Matt Boldy, and Dylan Larkin centering Clayton Keller and Tage Thompson. Keller replaced Kyle Connor in the last group-stage game, as the Winnipeg Jets star finds himself a healthy scratch on the international stage for the second time in 12 months, following last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off.

The Americans certainly have an edge in goal. Connor Hellebuyck is sharp and rested, while Hallam will have to either go with Jacob Markström for the second time in 21 hours or with Filip Gustavsson (who was a little shaky against Italy and Finland) or 23-year-old Jesper Wallstedt (who has yet to play in this tournament).

The U.S. hasn’t yet been at its best — at least, what should be its best given the talent on the roster — in this tournament. The Americans’ game has been a little inconsistent, a little scruffy. But they feel they’re getting closer to their ceiling. No time like the present to find it.

“I think we’re just continuing to find our game,” said Jack Hughes, on the fourth line with Brock Nelson and J.T. Miller. “Getting more comfortable with each other, more comfortable with the systems. Obviously now it’s the quarters, so you’ve got to really lock in. But it’s such a short tournament. You’ve got to find your game early. Play each game with the same intensity and play hard.”

Added Dylan Larkin: “It’s nerve-wracking. It is. It gets you going, and I think that’s what brings out the best in guys. I’m excited for it. Every play, every puck’s going to matter.”

After the Swedes’ win over Latvia, their attention turned immediately to the Americans. The last time these two teams met, at the 4 Nations, Sweden eked out a 2-1 victory.

“We’ve got to stay out of the box,” said Swedish defenseman Victor Hedman, who noted that “selfishly” he was glad to get an extra game in as he works his way back to midseason form after missing nearly two months with an injury. “They’ve got a phenomenal power play, a lot of weapons on it. It hasn’t been too long since we played them in 4 Nations, but obviously some different personnel, Quinn Hughes is back. We’ve just got to make sure that we’re physical on their skill, try to stay out of the box, and play a patient game.”

No. 8 Czech Republic vs. No. 1 Canada

It is a rematch of the Olympic opener for both teams after Team Canada trounced the Czech Republic 5-0 last Thursday.

“I think last time we actually had a decent start against Canada, we had some chances, we know what we need to do, we have to play simple, put (pucks) behind, get a good forecheck, get to the net and find a way to score at least some goals,’’ Czech center Tomáš Hertl said after his team’s 3-2 win Tuesday over Denmark in the qualifying playoffs. “We can’t be scared. If we wait and wait, we know what they can do. They have the best player on the planet on the team. They can destroy you.

“You have to just play with confidence,” continued the Vegas Golden Knights center. “We can’t think about who is on the ice, because all four lines are good for them. You have to enjoy it and play hard. It’s one game, you know? You never know what can happen. We can get some bounces, we can score early, and it can go our way.”

But Hertl stressed again that what the Czechs can’t do is just sit back.

Besides, Hertl joked, it’s all part of their plan right now, playing Canada twice in six days.

“That was our plan because we said we probably can’t beat Canada in the same tournament twice,” he said, smiling. “We gave them the first win so now it’s our time!”

Veteran defenseman Radko Gudas said staying out of the penalty box against the No. 1-ranked power play in the tournament (44 percent) is paramount.

“They have some unbelievable players on their power play,” Gudas said. “Then putting pucks in areas where we can get it back, make sure that we make them turn every time. It’s going to be a great challenge for us. It’s going to be fun.

“Anyone who can’t get motivated for that game tomorrow, there’s something seriously wrong with them. They shouldn’t be playing hockey. So it’s going to be a great challenge for us but we’re looking forward to it. If we want to get a medal, we have to beat the best teams.”

The Czechs were a little too cautious and looked nervous early on in their win over Denmark on Tuesday. It wasn’t a very convincing performance. They’ll need a much better effort Wednesday.

Canadian captain Sidney Crosby was asked Tuesday after practice what significance, if any, there would be to play the Czechs again for the second time in six days.

“Maybe a bit more familiar,’’ Crosby said. “But at this point, you’ve got to go out there and play the game and execute. So regardless of how many times you played each other, I think you still got to go out there and do it.”

Added Bo Horvat: “I obviously expect them to play us hard again. They played us hard the first game. You know, they’ve continued to keep getting better throughout the tournament, and we got to be ready to go, for sure.”

The Czechs did try to set a noticeable physical tempo in the opener, but it didn’t produce the desired results. Canada didn’t back down on the physical stuff.

“I thought we matched that really well,” Horvat said. “We try to match anybody that we play. They came out hard and they came out strong and I thought we matched that really well. So we expect them to come out harder. Playing us hard again. So we’ve got to match that again.”

Team Canada veteran Brad Marchand could be back in the lineup Wednesday and may get another crack at facing former Bruins teammate David Pastrňák, with whom he says he’s remained close.

“I love Pasta,” said Marchand. “… I’ve loved where his game has gotten. He’s such a competitor. He was always a great player, but he was streaky early on. He’d get really hot and then really cold. He works extremely hard at his game and he’s become one of the top-five players in the game. He’s incredible, the way he controls the play every time he’s on the ice. His consistency level is at the top of the league. It’s really incredible what he’s done. And it doesn’t matter who he’s playing with. You could put him with the top guys on the team or some younger guys who are just learning the game and he’s going to affect the game the same way. He’s a very, very impressive player.”

Pastrňák had an assist in Sunday’s game but overall, still not the kind of play expected from a star of his caliber.

“Honestly, I haven’t played my best here yet, so just waiting, and hopefully I saved it for tomorrow,’’ Pastrňák said after the game Tuesday.

Martin Nečas of the Colorado Avalanche scored again Sunday on a blistering slap shot to the top corner. He’s been carrying the Czechs so far.

“His ability of skating and escaping in the tight spaces, he’s an incredible skater and he’s becoming a star year by year,’’ Pastrňák said of Necas.” Every year he’s getting better. It’s fun to see. Really happy for him, and glad I can help him out, and he knows I’m here for him. He’s fun to watch.”

No. 5 Switzerland vs. No. 4 Finland

This has upset potential, although Finland has rebounded strongly ever since opening the Olympics with a 4-1 loss to Slovakia, beating rival Sweden 4-1 and smoking Italy 11-0.

“Amazing team and amazing players,’’ Swiss captain Roman Josi said after the game Tuesday of Finland. “Every time the Finns play a tournament, whether it’s world championships or Olympics, they are always one of the favorites. They play really good as a team, so we will have to be at our best.”

Still, the Swiss are back-to-back silver medalists at the IIHF World Championships and have won three of their four games following Tuesday’s 3-0 win over Italy in the qualifying playoffs.

The Swiss also got a boost against Italy with the return of defenseman Andrea Glauser from a suspected concussion. Though he only played a little under 11 minutes and did not start the game with Josi, his regular partner, the fact that he was in uniform bodes well for his availability against Finland.

The Finns would be wise to stay out of the box; Switzerland has the third-ranked power play in the tournament at 31 percent after scoring two more with the man advantage Tuesday. The Swiss also have the second-ranked penalty kill (92 percent) in the tournament.

But, as Josi noted, Finland is always a medal threat — the country has failed to medal at only one of the five Olympics that included NHL players — and this year is no different.

Finland is always defined by team play and defense; the Finns have allowed two five-on-five goals at these Olympics.

“(The) win against Sweden showed for ourselves how we have to play to be able to win. It’s going to be like that in the next round,” Finland captain Mikael Granlund said after the win against Italy. “It’s going to be a highly skilled game where we have to be at our best all the time. (We’re) a really experienced group. We know what we need to do to be able to win games. That’s what we have to focus on.”

Slovakia’s Juraj Slafkovský has 10 goals in 10 Olympic Games since 2022. (Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)

No. 6 Germany vs. No. 3 Slovakia

Just 21 hours after beating France to advance to the quarterfinals, Germany will be playing Slovakia in a win-or-go-home game. It’ll be Germany’s third game in four days, and fifth in seven. Slovakia, meanwhile, will be coming off three straight off days.

Can adrenaline make up the recovery gap for Germany? This is the Olympics, after all.

“It’ll help for sure,” German captain Leon Draisaitl said after an uneventful 5-1 victory over France on Tuesday. “It’s a big game, it’s a do-or-die game, right? So adrenaline will be going. We’ll make sure we’ll be ready to go.”

Thanks to Slovakia’s group win, eighth-ranked Germany won’t have to face any of the traditional powers in the quarterfinal. In fact, with Draisaitl, Tim Stützle, JJ Peterka, Moritz Seider and Philipp Grubauer in net, Germany could be seen as the favorite, despite their unremarkable group-stage performance. (And were Germany to win, and the other favorites prevail, the semifinals would be Canada-Germany and U.S.-Finland, meaning a vastly tougher road to a gold medal for the Americans than the Canadians.) But Slovakia won that group for a reason. Juraj Slafkovský and the Slovaks are rested and riding high. It won’t be easy.

“It’s always a great game against them, always hard,” Germany’s Nico Sturm said. “Especially when we play them, it’s always a battle. I expect a grind from start to finish.”

Neither team was considered a serious contender coming into this tournament, yet one of them will be playing for a medal. And both have good reason to think it’ll be them.

“It’s in your head, but you don’t want to focus on that, you want to focus on the game and just play your best game and then we will see how it ends up,” Slovak defenseman Šimon Nemec said. “We just have to play our best game, just put 100 percent effort and we will see. But yeah, we know we have a big chance to win.”

“We’re one game away from it, so we think about it and prepare the best way we can for (Wednesday),” said forward Dalibor Dvorský. “The people (back home) are really happy. The whole nation is watching. We just love playing good for our country and hopefully we can make our fans even more happy in the next two games here.”

Sturm said Slafkovský is becoming one of the elite goal scorers and playmakers in the NHL. His 10 goals in 10 Olympic Games since 2022 is the stuff of legends. So Germany better rest up.

“It’s important what we do now for the next 20 hours,” Sturm said. “Probably not going to have a ton of beers.”

NFL free agency is right around the corner, and there are some high-level skill players available on both sides of the ball this offseason. However, winning in the trenches is more important than ever; That’s why some of the best offensive linemen in NFL free agency will receive lucrative contracts this offseason.

Let’s take a look at our NFL offseason predictions to see where the top offensive linemen land in NFL free agency.

Rasheed Walker, OT: Pittsburgh Steelers

It seems like the possibility of Aaron Rodgers returning as the Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback in 2026 is increasing. If that happens, the club would be wise to upgrade at left tackle. Things never worked out well with Broderick Jones, so we can’t count on the Steelers to bring someone in and develop him. Instead, they could go after the best offensive tackle in NFL free agency. Rasheed Walker is somewhat like Dan Moore Jr., although perhaps better in pass protection. Acquiring him would cost over $20 million in AAV, but the Steelers have enough cap space to make it happen. Also, he may remain fit for a long time as he has just turned 26.

RELATED: NFL offseason predictions for top edge rushers

Braden Smith: Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams certainly have the option to use one of their first-round selections on an offensive tackle to replace Rob Havenstein. However, going after a sure thing for a Super Bowl contender is a much safer bet. Braden Smith is an above-average starter at right tackle, providing stability in both pass protection and run blocking. Durability is their biggest issue, but the Rams do have a backup plan, as Warren McClendon Jr. proved he could hold his own as a fill-in starter last season.

RELATED: Bold NFL offseason predictions for QB landing spots

Isaac Seumalo, IOL: Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders will definitely spend money in NFL free agency; It’s just a question of which offensive lineman they go after. Guard Isaac Seumalo not only brings the playing style and mentality that new head coach Clint Kubiak likely wants in the trenches, but he also provides something else that Las Vegas needs. Seumalo finished last season with the third-highest ESPN pass-block win rate (97 percent) in the NFL; The veteran is exactly who the Raiders should put at left tackle to protect Fernando Mendoza.

READ MORE: NFL offseason predictions for the top running backs in NFL free agency

David Edwards, IOL: Houston Texans

The Houston Texans need to do a lot more this offseason to protect CJ Stroud. It would also help if the front office invested more in improving the ground game. The signing of David Edwards helps on both counts. Edwards ranked 10th among interior linemen in ESPN run-block win rate (75 percent) in 2025, and he allowed only one quarterback hit while earning the 14th-best PFF pass-blocking grade among guards. This is the type of investment that is desperately needed in Houston, and it would be a huge step towards a more consistent and well-developed offense in 2026 and beyond.

Read more: NFL free agency predictions for top wide receivers

Connor McGovern, C: Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers could get a quality starting guard in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Unfortunately for the club, this year’s prospect pool is worryingly low at center back. This leaves NFL free agency as the best way to upgrade at the position. They would have to beat the Buffalo Bills to land Connor McGovern, as he ranked third among all centers in ESPN pass-block win rate (97 percent) last season. it is worth it. Moving from Bradley Bozeman to McGovern would be a huge upgrade for the interior Chargers offensive line and would do wonders to help Justin Herbert and Mike McDaniel.

Read More: 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Tyler Linderbaum, C: Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens will not use the franchise tag to prevent Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum from reaching NFL free agency. However, we can’t imagine the club losing him on the open market. Baltimore already had a bottom-10 offensive line in 2025, with the interior being the biggest reason for the unit’s struggles. Losing Linderbaum will put Lamar Jackson under even more pressure in worse circumstances next season. Baltimore may not like the price they paid to re-sign Linderbaum, but it’s worth it; This is why interior offensive linemen of his caliber rarely leave the team that drafted them when they are entering the prime of their careers.

RELATED: NFL Trades We’d Like to See This Offseason

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

There are still a few weeks left until moves are made in the 2026 NFL offseason, but the amount of pass rushers available this spring is already generating a lot of buzz. From NFL trade rumors involving Trey Hendrickson and Max Crosby to some underappreciated free agents, there are attractive options for pass-rush-needy teams.

Let’s take a look at our NFL offseason predictions to see where the top edge players will land this spring in both the trade market and NFL free agency.

Trey Hendrickson: Indianapolis Colts

A tag-and-trade for Trey Hendrickson seems inevitable. With the way the Cincinnati Bengals have handled contract negotiations with their All-Pro edge rusher over the past few years, we see no reason to believe they’ll let him hit the open market and walk away for nothing. The issue for Cincinnati is that a tag-and-trade creates more drama, and any team interested in acquiring Hendrickson would have to pay for the trade and then sign him to a long-term deal. With general manager Chris Ballard on the hot seat and having already sacrificed future draft capital to build this defense, we think the Indianapolis Colts will make a big change and re-unite Hendrickson with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.

RELATED: NFL trade candidates this offseason, including Trey Hendrickson

Khalil Mack: Baltimore Ravens

In 2025, the Baltimore Ravens finished the regular season with the fifth-lowest pressure rate (19%) and second-lowest sack rate (4.6%) in the NFL. We’re confident that first-year head coach Jesse Minter will help fix some of this, but Baltimore’s pass rush still leaves a lot to be desired. Fortunately, the club has over $20 million in cap space this offseason, and could make a lot of it with the Lamar Jackson contract restructuring. Doing so would give Baltimore the financial flexibility to bring in Khalil Mack on a one-year deal, while also adding a high-end defender who can still generate pressure and stop the run.

Read More: 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Hidden Object: Washington Commanders

We think instead of spending on a top pass rusher in NFL free agency, the Washington Commanders take a different approach. This will see a significant portion of their cap room spent on improving the supporting cast around Jaden Daniels and utilizing a top-10 pick on an edge rusher. It won’t be everything that Commanders general manager Adam Peters does. He will take advantage of the defense that has led his team to the Lombardy Trophy with the addition of Boye Mafe. While his sack numbers – 8 over the past two seasons – don’t jump off the page, the 27-year-old is above average against the run and generating pressure.

RELATED: Bold NFL offseason predictions for QB landing spots

Odafe Oweh: Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers need to retain one of their top pass rushers who is bound for NFL free agency. Given that Odafe Oweh is young, we think the 27-year-old will be brought back if Khalil Mack heads elsewhere. After landing in Los Angeles a few weeks before the NFL trade deadline, Oweh generated 19 pressures, 13 quarterback hits, 8 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks in 12 games with the Chargers. Also, with the departure of Jesse Minter, the club needs to retain one of the primary reasons for its defensive success last season.

READ MORE: NFL offseason predictions for top running backs

Bradley Chubb: Dallas Cowboys

Because he is being released, signing edge rusher Bradley Chubb will not be included in the NFL’s compensatory-selection formula. This makes him very attractive to clubs in need of pass-rushing help who would not be able to spend money in NFL free agency because they do not want to give up the selection they receive for departing talent. A team like the Green Bay Packers could be an option, but we’re going in a different direction. New Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker worked in Denver when Chubb earned his second Pro Bowl selection in 2022. Dallas also needs veteran pass-rushing help, preferably at a reasonable price.

Read more: NFL free agency predictions for top wide receivers

Max Crosby: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

We think Max Crosby will request a trade this offseason, making the Las Vegas Raiders willing to move him to a contender. While the Detroit Lions are a popular choice as his landing spot, we’re projecting the All-Pro edge rusher to land with another NFC contender. If Mike Evans and Lavonte David are re-signed, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking at a narrow window for contention with their core getting older. Crosby would be a major upgrade for the Buccaneers Rush, giving them a difference-maker whose presence will also help Vita Vea, Calijah Kensi and Yaya Diaby. Las Vegas takes the premium draft capital and moves Crosby to the NFC, while the Buccaneers pick up a player who can help them compete for an NFC crown next season.

RELATED: NFL Trades We’d Like to See This Offseason

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

Teams around the National Football League that are in the market for starting potential this offseason will have quite a few options. While the best class of running backs in free agency doesn’t offer Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley-caliber talent, there are several 1,000-yard rushers this spring.

Let’s dive into our NFL offseason predictions to see where the top running backs end up in NFL free agency.

Travis Etienne: Arizona Cardinals

Travis Etienne is not returning to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2026. The club is currently projected to be over the cap hit by $11 million and has more pressing needs than its former first-round pick, especially with the emergence of the fearsome Tuten. While the Kansas City Chiefs are a popular landing spot for Etienne, we don’t see Brett Veach involved in a bidding war for one of the top running backs in NFL free agency. However, it feels like the Arizona Cardinals would be willing to make a move. Arizona may not be able to find itself a viable starting quarterback this offseason, but it could improve its rushing attack. The move here would be to sign Etienne to take over as the RB1, with Trey Benson as a complementary unit, and use the third overall pick on an offensive tackle to improve the run blocking for Etienne.

Read More: 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Javonte Williams: Dallas Cowboys

A return to the Dallas Cowboys seems inevitable for Javonte Williams. He found a home in the Dallas offense last season, delivering a career year with over 1,300 scrimmage yards and 13 total touchdowns, while averaging 4.8 yards per carry. Given the number of starting running backs available, he won’t necessarily get a big payday on the open market, so he can stick with the system in which he has excelled. We could see the two sides agree to a two-year deal worth around $7 million per season, which would provide a viable path for Dallas to exit the contract in 2027 with a small dead cap hit.

RELATED: Bold NFL offseason predictions for QB landing spots

Kenneth Walker III: Seattle Seahawks

Even if you take away the Super Bowl MVP, Kenneth Walker led the Seattle Seahawks’ offense and looked like one of the best running backs in the NFL during the playoffs. Using the franchise tag on him isn’t a bad idea, even if the cost is around $14.5 million fully guaranteed for the 2026 season. However, we suspect Seattle will use the transition tag to see what extraordinary the market is willing to offer. Ultimately, with the potential equalizing, we expect Walker to return to Seattle next season.

RELATED: Insider sheds light on Kenneth Walker’s future with Seahawks

Rico Dowdle: Houston Texans

After rushing for 1,000 yards and averaging 4.6 yards per carry in 2024 with Dallas, running back Rico Dowdle had to settle on a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers for the 2025 NFL season. He began the campaign as a backup before posting an electric five-game stretch—650 rushing yards (130.4 rush ypg) and 6.3 ypc—that saw him inserted into Carolina’s offense. However, Dowdle finished the regular season averaging just 3.2 yards per carry and 42.6 rushing yards per game in his final eight contests. He will have to settle for another one-year deal in NFL free agency. We like the Houston Texans as a fit, where Dowdle would have an opportunity to challenge Woody Marks for the starting job and at least be the 1B in the backfield committee.

Read more: NFL trades we’d like to see this offseason

Breece Hall: Washington Commanders

There are already NFL rumors circulating this offseason that the Washington Commanders intend to spend big. One way that general manager Adam Peters can support third-year quarterback Jayden Daniels is by providing him with a top-tier running back. Breece Hall’s three-down skill set will be a nice complement to Washington’s offense, giving Daniels a reliable checkdown option with elite YAC ability and a perennial 1,000-yard rusher who can handle 16-20 touches per game. Hall gets paid and it would be easy to see how this gives him a chance to finally play for a contender.

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

NBA All-Star Weekend is finally here and all the festivities are starting in Los Angeles as one of the weekend’s longest-running events returns with a new group of players. Larry Bird, Stephen Curry, Mark Price and other greats have graced the stage in the NBA 3-Point Contest, but only one can emerge victorious on Saturday.

Tyler Herro of the Miami Heat won the competition in 2025, but was replaced by teammate Norman Powell. The Blazers’ Damian Lillard comes into the event having won two of his last three, but it’s the Charlotte Hornets’ rookie sharpshooter Kon Nueppel who comes in as the betting favorite. The Suns’ Devin Booker will also return after his memorable final round victory in 2018.

3-Point Contest Odds, courtesy of DraftKings

2026 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest Odds

Kon Knuppel: +240
Damian Lillard: +400
Jamal Murray: +650
Devin Booker: +650
Tyrese Maxey: +700
Donovan Mitchell: +750
Norman Powell: +1000
Bobby Portis: +1200

overview

Each contestant will have 70 seconds (1:10) to pass five racks of five balls, each rack containing a “money ball”. In general, a regular basketball will be worth one point while a money ball will be worth two points. The fifth rack, which can be placed at any position by the participant, will exclusively contain five money balls. Finally, two “from the logo” spots will be designated with two shots for three points each.

Each player will take a total of 27 shots in the first round. The three highest scores will advance to the championship round, shooting in the reverse order of their total from the first round.

Main storyline, returning participants

The most interesting name to watch here is Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers, who has already won this championship two of the last three years. He is not expected to return to action during the 2025–26 season due to pain, but is determined to compete and regain his former crown. The Cavs’ Donovan Mitchell and the Heat’s Norman Powell return for another breakout season after a brief absence over the past two years.

Of all the contestants, Tyrese Maxey has had the best season and is garnering MVP votes for his performances with the 76ers this season. Kon Knueppel is challenging the Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg for “Rookie of the Year” and winning this contest could certainly raise his stock in the eyes of fans.

player to watch

Rookie Kon Nueppel is the clear betting favorite here, shooting 43.1% from deep on an average attempt ratio of 3.4-7.9 this season. Additionally, he is also adept at taking open looks, so this type of competition is tailored to his skill set. Players like Devin Booker and Donovan Mitchell provide a serious chance as they are both capable of catching heat from deep, but they can be considered more of in-game shooters.

The Milwaukee Bucks’ Bobby Portis actually has the highest three-point percentage in the entire field at 45.1%, so don’t be surprised if he is able to advance to the championship round. Making sure to conserve energy through all five racks is a lesson first-timers usually learn very late in the round, so expect Portis, Maxi and Knueppel to pace themselves early in this rack.

In terms of taking a risk in this contest, Devin Booker could be a solid choice as he has already won this contest. I expect Tyrese Maxey and Donovan Mitchell to go down early as they are more effective when heated up during the game, but players like Booker, Nueppel and Lillard could step up because of their rhythm.

Final 3-Point Contest Predictions and Winners

It’s hard to say how effective Damian Lillard will be in regaining his title while competing despite an injured Achilles. The Hornets’ Kon Knueppel seems to be the most obvious pick here due to his expertise on the three-point shot and if he is able to get off to a strong start he is the most capable of winning this contest.

Although he will be looking to work on his timing and find his rhythm for the first time in this competition, he has been playing like this against other opponents for most of the season. He is also likely to reach the ground early and hit some shots, making him a likely choice to win in his first outing.

Final Prediction: Conn Knueppel (+240)