Dutch side NAC Breda could get a huge windfall after Tottenham Hotspur bid €40m for brighton and hove albion Jan Paul van Hecke.

Journalist Joost Blauhof reports NAC is set to earn 7.5% from the Breda transfer after ‘serious bid’ from Tottenham today.

Tottenham offered €40m

Sport Witness has already covered a report Explaining that Tottenham and Brighton are sitting around the table and discussing a deal for Jan-Paul van Hecke.

Tottenham are keen to reunite Roberto De Zerbi with Van Hecke this summer, backing claims in England, according to the report. They have now made their move in an attempt to pounce him ahead of Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea.

And any move would be highly beneficial to his former club NAC Breda. Blauhof reports that NAC COO Edgar Mol may ‘get hold of a calculator’ for the Dutch club.

According to their information, Van Hecke is set to bring in an ‘extraordinary sum of money’ this summer. Reports from England indicate that Tottenham have offered Brighton around €40m for the 25-year-old. According to him, it will be ‘raised even higher’.

NAC gets 7.5%

And NAC is sure to profit as they get 7.5% from any deal. He did not say whether this was 7.5% of the total amount or the profit made by Brighton. Such deals are often based on the latter.

If it is the former, it would be worth around €3m. If it was based on profit it would be slightly lower. Brighton paid €2m for Van Hecke in 2020, so that’s a profit of €38m. So, NAC will receive approximately €2.85 million.

He will also likely receive a percentage from FIFA’s solidarity payments, as Van Hecke joined them in 2018 and spent two years at the club in the U19s and then the first team before moving to Brighton.

At the NAC, Edgar Mol can already take the calculator from his desk drawer, because Jan Paul van Hecke will make a lot more money. There are rumors from England that an offer of around £40 million has been made by Spurs. It will be expanded further. NAC charges 7.5%. #NACtalk

– Joost Blaauwhof (@joost_blaauwhof) 4 June 2026

Manchester CityNathan Ake did not have a significant role in the Premier League team this season.

Outgoing manager Pep Guardiola gave the Netherlands 688 minutes in 18 Premier League matches, including six starts.

That hasn’t stopped the Manchester City player from being included in Ronald Koeman’s squad for the World Cup. However, it could make the centre-back consider changing clubs this summer.

Barcelona have identified the 31-year-old as a low-cost option to improve their defence.

Last month, Sports Witness Covered claims from Spain The Citizens will not make any concessions to Barça, their Champions League rivals. Their wages are also a problem for the La Liga winners.

Turkish option for Manchester City player

Nathan Ake may have the opportunity to switch to Türkiye where Fenerbahçe could be an option, according to him photomac.

The Yellow Canaries will hold elections this weekend and their former president, Aziz Yıldırım, is running for the same role.

Yıldırım has talked about the importance of strengthening the defense and Aké is his top target.

He recently traveled to England to hold talks with Manchester City for a centre-back. If the presidential candidate is to win the upcoming elections he will bring the Dutchman to Istanbul.

The Etihad club are demanding €11m and the former AFC Bournemouth man wants salaries of €6m per annum excluding bonuses. Yildirim insisted that he could meet both of their demands and that he would insist on the transfer if elected as the new president of Fenerbahçe.

There is no mention of whether the player is open to a switch to Turkey. If he decides to leave Manchester City, he will likely have a choice among the top five European leagues.

Summer exit on the cards

The defender has 13 months left on his contract and is worth €15m transfer market.

Manchester City have yet to confirm Pep Guardiola’s successor, but Nathan Ake is unlikely to be a key part of the next manager’s plans.

Therefore, a move away from the Etihad could be a possibility this summer. This will improve his chances of featuring regularly next season.

tottenham Joao Palinha may be out of the running. However, this does not mean that the saga is close to ending.

The Portugal international spent the season on loan at Spurs and played a big role in the club’s Premier League survival. However, report from portugal It was suggested at the weekend that Tottenham would not activate their €30m (£25.8m) option to purchase him from Bayern Munich.

For weeks discussion focused on whether Tottenham would keep Palhinha and whether the midfielder would push for a return to Sporting.

Now it seems that the answer to the first question has been found. But the second has hardly changed.

Recent reports have consistently indicated that Pelhinha wants to return to Lisbon. Plus, Sporting are acting like they 100% expect him to come… The only problem is Bayern Munich.

Sporting already has big plans

according to morning mailSporting are prepared to go much further than simply giving Palhinha a way home.

The newspaper claims the club are prepared to make him the highest-paid player in the squad if they can secure a deal.

Sporting are also reportedly willing to hand him the captain’s armband, with Morten Hjulmand expected to leave this summer. And that tells you everything about how Palahinha is viewed internally.

It appears that the club is preparing a central role for him in the next sporting project.

However, the issue of pay remains complex. As explained in detail earlierPalhinha currently earns around €9m (£7.6m) per year, which is far more than Sporting’s normal salary structure.

Nevertheless, multiple Portuguese reports state that the midfielder is willing to make a significant sacrifice to return. Correiro da Manha now suggests Sporting are ready to push their limits financially too.

Bayern is now the main obstacle

game Draw an absolutely identical picture. The newspaper described Palhinha as Sporting’s last wish. He will complete their midfield rebuild following the moves of Issa Doumbia, Pedro Lima and Silas Anderson.

The expectation is that the former Tottenham loanee will arrive as Hjulmand’s successor and slot straight into Rui Borges’ starting eleven. The problem is that Bayern still holds all the cards.

The German club paid around €50m (£43m) to sign Pelhinha from Fulham in 2024 and are unlikely to say goodbye without recouping as much value as possible.

Sporting’s preferred solution remains a loan with the option – or obligation – to buy. The hard part now is to find a formula that works for Bayern.

Either way, as things stand, the Tottenham chapter looks to be coming to a close. Now the entire discussion is about whether Bayern can be persuaded to play along.

fulham The Marco Silva saga is entering a decisive phase. Portuguese reports are now claiming the manager is expected to arrive in Lisbon this week for talks with Benfica.

Till now most of the movements were indirect. Talks through representatives, growing optimism at Benfica, and Fulham are trying to convince Silva to stay.

Yesterday, we covered how the dynamic around jose mourinho Can affect his condition. And the latest reports from Tuesday show that the situation is now becoming more concrete.

according to to ballSilva is expected to be in Lisbon in midweek and should have a meeting with Benfica which could prove decisive for his future.

Silva is now close to a decision

There is now widespread agreement in Portugal that Marco Silva’s answer is coming very soon.

record Report the Fulham manager will decide his future before Thursday. The newspaper says Silva does not want the situation to drag on any further and will soon inform Fulham of his intention to renew or leave.

Following Fulham’s 2-0 win over Newcastle United at the weekend, Silva himself effectively confirmed the urgency of the process.

“It will not go beyond this week,” He said, and also emphasized that he did not like to do so “Feed Soap Opera”.

A bola adds another important detail. Silva could travel to Lisbon without already making a final decision and potentially use the meeting with Benfica to clarify final points before deciding on his next move.

It seems that the talks are reaching the final stage.

Benfica’s confidence is increasing

surround vowels in portugal Benfica’s prospects Feels stronger than before.

One Bola described Silva as “very tempted” by the prospect of taking over at Benfica, while Fulham are pressing him with a major renewal offer and the promise of future investment.

That emotional aspect continues to be visible in the Portuguese coverage. After five years at Fulham and almost a decade coaching in England, Silva is clearly considering two different futures.

Benfica are also reportedly willing to make a huge financial effort by Portuguese standards. The newspaper says Silva considers a long-term contract necessary and Benfica is ready for that structure, although no final agreement has yet been reached.

However, Mourinho’s position continues to loom over everything. Benfica still officially have Mourinho under contract for another season and uncertainty regarding his expected move to Real Madrid remains unresolved, as we covered yesterday.

A Bola again pressed Benfica that internally it is already behaving as if Mourinho is lost, but formally nothing has been completed yet. That lingering uncertainty is still causing caution on Silva’s part.

Fulham still trying to convince Silva to stay

Meanwhile, Fulham are not backing down. The latest reports continue to suggest that the London club are doing so Working hard to keep Marco Silva And are trying to sell him a more ambitious future in the Premier League.

According to the Record, Fulham’s renewal offer would extend Silva’s deal for a further four years and increase his wages to around €7.2m (£6.1m) per season.

The same report says he currently earns around €5.8m (£4.9m), although bonuses could already boost that figure to €7.5m (£6.3m).

One Bola also confirms that Fulham’s pitch is not just financial. The club continues to invest in the squad and promise better conditions to compete for bigger goals in the Premier League.

As we previously covered, Portuguese reports have repeatedly suggested that Silva was disappointed with the level of investment last season and wanted stronger guarantees before committing again to the long term.

Either way, Marco Silva is now expected to arrive in Lisbon. So we should all get answers by the end of the week.

liverpool Inter Milan remain interested in Denzel Dumfries after failing to sign him in the winter market.

On April 8th, we broadcast news The Premier League side are keen to sign the right-back.

Later that month, Sport Witness Covered claims from Italy The player’s father Boris was unhappy with the failed move to Liverpool in January. He is managing the 30-year-old and working to help his son achieve a ‘dream’ move to the Premier League.

The representative has asked agents and intermediaries to help the Inter Milan star move to England. The Reds could help the 30-year-old fulfill his dream summer.

Dumfries was part of the Nerazzurri team that won the title this season. He played 28 matches and scored five goals and two assists.

Liverpool working on summer deal

The Netherlands international will soon join the national team for the World Cup. Behind the scenes, the Anfield club are trying to secure his services.

is according to fcinternewsAnd their title states ‘Two important expressions of interest from abroad’.

In the report, they have mentioned Liverpool and Barcelona as their suitors and both clubs are interested in signing Denzel Dumfries.

Arne Slot’s side and the La Liga winners contacted his representatives to inform him of their desire to sign him. Barcelona could make a move if Jules Kounde were to move elsewhere for a big fee.

The Dutchman’s future will likely be decided after the World Cup, which will also give him an opportunity to showcase his qualities.

He is happy at San Siro, but his €25m release clause makes him an attractive prospect in the transfer market. This clause will come into effect in July and hence, Dumfries changing clubs after the World Cup cannot be ruled out.

Contract, price and agent information

Denzel Dumfries is under contract until 2028 and his value, as per transfer marketIs €25m.

The Inter Milan star’s father Boris Dumfries is now looking after his interest and future.

His agent is keen to take him to England and that would give Liverpool an edge over Barcelona in the transfer battle. Unlike the Spanish giants, the Reds have no prerequisites to sign him.

liverpool Sporting star Francisco Trincao is on his target list for the summer.

The Portugal international has operated primarily on the right wing for most of his career.

However, he played primarily as an attacking midfielder at Sporting this season, scoring 13 goals and providing 18 assists in 53 matches.

His performances have already caught the attention of Liverpool as they are in the market for a new right winger. Mohamed Salah has held that position at Anfield for a long time and will leave after this season.

The Reds have identified RB Leipzig star Yann Diomande as one of their main targets. He ruled out A move in the summer but left the door open for a future transfer.

Arne Slot’s team will have to focus on other targets and could consider signing Sporting Man.

Liverpool keen on former PL attacker

Francisco Trincão spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring three goals and one assist in 30 appearances.

The Merseyside club could bring him back to the Premier League in the summer.

The 26-year-old is on today’s front page recordWhich has ‘Trincao on the English route’ written in bold and also mentions Liverpool’s interest.

In the report, the newspaper says that the attacker has a market in England.

The Reds are the only club mentioned and are keen to acquire his services.

Therefore, the Lions are willing to listen to offers, as long as it is acceptable. He has a release clause of €60m in his contract, but Sporting could probably sell him for a lower price.

Earlier this month, Sporting manager Rui Borges had already hinted that he “may want to take a different path” in the summer.

All of these factors should please Liverpool, as long as they are willing to make a concrete move to sign Trincao.

Contract, price and agent information

On 4 March, Francisco Trincão signed a new contract with Sporting until 2030. Now its value, according to transfer market€35m and is the highest of his career.

The agency Gestifute, headed by super-agent Jorge Mendes, represents the sporting individual.

everton are back in the mix to sign Djuriko Davitashvili from AS Saint-Étienne in the summer.

Back in January, Sport Witness Covered claims from France Everton are entering the race to sign him.

That time, benfica were challenging Premier League sides but could not get a deal over the line.

The winger has enjoyed good performances with the Ligue 2 team, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists in 31 appearances.

His impressive performances have already attracted the attention of several European clubs

Everton is in competition with 5 other clubs

Foot-Sur7 It is now reported that six clubs are in the race to sign the Georgia international in the upcoming window.

This includes David Moyes’ team, Benfica, Olympiacos, AS Monaco, Lille and Besiktas. The outlet claims it is their own information and reports that these clubs are lining up to secure his services.

These six clubs are hoping that Saint-Étienne will continue in Ligue 2 so that they can snatch up Zuriko Davitashvili.

The French club finished third in Ligue 2 and faced OGC Nice in a two-legged playoff. The second phase will take place on May 29 and this deadline is crucial for the Toffees and the five other interested parties.

This is because the attacker’s supporters are eagerly waiting for his deadline to launch their bid. Of these six clubs, Lille has the advantage after achieving direct qualification for the Champions League.

Saint-Étienne is aware of the difficulty of retaining the 25-year-old without a return to Ligue 1.

In the event of a sale in the summer, the French club would demand at least €15m. The fee could be higher if they return to the top flight.

Everton, Benfica, Olympiacos, AS Monaco, Lille and Besiktas have all been reported to be interested in a fee to sign Davitashvili.

Contract, price and agent information

The Georgian has a contract until 2028, with the option of a further year, and is worth according to transfer marketIs €10m.

Georgian agency Jugeli Sports, owned by agent Giorgi Jugeli, is representing the winger.

liverpool Feyenoord are considering adding assistant manager Giovanni Van Bronckhorst to their supervisory board.

1908.nl report special information The Liverpool coach is on the agenda of his former club as they look to make sweeping changes this summer.

Feyenoord needs Liverpool’s coach

They report that Giovanni van Bronckhorst is ‘clearly being considered’ to fill the position left by the departure of Szak Troost. The Dutch club believe he will add ‘football expertise’ to the supervisory body.

Troost resigned in February and has not been replaced since. The former defender had served as a commissioner on the board for seven years. Now there is a fifth seat that needs to be filled and the Liverpool coach is on the list.

Van Bronckhorst has also been linked with a potential technical role at the club. That remains a possibility, but it would likely be a position as a Technical Manager supporting the Technical Director. However, he has not been appointed yet.

According to club insiders, Van Bronckhorst wants a role away from the ‘daily spotlight’. He would prefer to work in the background. Both roles, technical advisory or supervisory board, will allow him to do so.

Van Bronckhorst is ready to negotiate

Wire, via FR12.nlThere is also information about the Liverpool coach. The newspaper reports that he is aware of ‘concrete interest’ from Feyenoord this summer.

For now and until the end of the season, his focus is on Liverpool. But importantly, he is also open to talks regarding a return to the Netherlands and Feyenoord.

However, he would like clarity on the club’s future plans and sporting direction before taking up the position. Perhaps they will be made clear during any talks that are yet to take place.

However, the fact that he is willing to negotiate has opened the door for Feyenoord. They are considering their former star for a number of positions, with it seemingly likely that the same will happen with the Liverpool coach soon.

Sporting Clube de Portugal are keeping a close eye on Joao Palinha, who could return to Portugal after his loan spell tottenhamfor personal reasons.

Both to ball And weekend morning mail Report today on the Tottenham loanee and a possible return to his homeland this summer.

Tottenham exit likely

Sport Witness covered a report yesterday stating that there was interest in Sporting The Tottenham midfielder this summer. Correio da Manha Weekend now adds with further information.

He says Sporting are ready to bring Joao Palinha back to the club next season, taking advantage of his desire to return to Portugal to be closer to his children. Benfica are also in the running, but Palinha would prefer to return to his former club.

The Lions intend to use his desire to return home to their advantage. They see him as a business opportunity, as other players in his position are potentially departing.

Palhinha is currently on loan at Tottenham from Bayern Munich. Roberto De Zerbi has expressed his desire to keep the 30-year-old long-term.

But the midfielder wants to return to Portugal after his divorce to be closer to his children, who are still young. To do this he has expressed his willingness to reduce his salary.

return to portugal

A Bola report gives similar information. They reveal that Sporting will be restructuring their midfield this summer and Joao Palinha is one of the names they are keeping a close eye on.

According to their information, Palhinha will return from Tottenham to Bayern Munich this summer.

When this happens, they intend to make their move. They would prefer a loan, but believe it is possible to negotiate a permanent deal. Bayern want €30 million but Sporting believe they can reduce it.

The newspaper echoes the view that Palhinha would love to join his former club. And the player will be given a very warm welcome upon returning to Portugal ‘for family reasons’.

Sporting players are also waiting to see what Tottenham does. He has expressed his desire to keep her with him and this may complicate matters. However, ultimately the decision will have to be made by Palhinha. And in Portugal he believes he wants to go home above everything else.

Now that the 2026 NFL Draft has ended, it’s easy to say that the Los Angeles Rams got the biggest blow of the weekend, making Alabama QB Ty Simpson the 13th overall pick in the first round. After all, Matthew Stafford is coming off an MVP season. But he’s also 38, and entering the final year of his contract.

The Rams now have three quarterbacks on the roster, and the team has made a significant investment in each. Stafford is entering the final season of his two-year, $84 million contract, Simpson was selected in the first round, and third-stringer Stetson Bennett was selected in the fourth round in 2023.

One can assume that Rams general manager Les Snead is quite satisfied with his new-look QB room. but it can not.

According to Rams head coach Sean McVay, the team is still not ready to sign Jimmy Garoppolo this offseason.

“I wouldn’t say that.” “I don’t want to say completely shut down, but I will say this. You guys know how much I appreciate Jimmy and what he can really do. I always viewed him as a starting-caliber quarterback. I wouldn’t say he’ll ever shut it down, but being able to do what we did last night, it probably reduces the level of urgency for that position. I would definitely never say that.”

He has spent the last three seasons with the Rams, and the team is clearly comfortable with what he has added in the locker room and on the practice field. There are also rumors that Jimmy G is considering retirement this offseason, yet the Rams would clearly be happy to have him back in LA.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Draft stunners: The biggest surprises from Round 1, including Simpson going to the LA Rams

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

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

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

Austin theory

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

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

wendy chu

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

Fraxiom

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

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

shinsuke nakamura

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

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

creed brothers

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

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

bronson reed

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

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

ivy blue

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

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

The Miz

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

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

jesse mateo

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

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

liverpool Attempted to sign Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan in January. All hope may not be lost for the Reds, as the wing-back is pushing for a move to England.

The Dutchman missed several games due to injury at the beginning of this season.

Then Liverpool came forward for him. sports witness This approach was covered, with Inter CEO Beppe Marotta also speaking publicly about the move.

A deal never materialized, probably because Inter could not find a replacement in time.

Some of the background surrounding Dumfries is now emerging and it seems those around him are pushing for a Premier League transfer.

Dumfries has a dream of England

IT migration market A deeper dive into the 29-year-old’s situation makes it clear the Dumfries father was unhappy with his move to Liverpool.

Since the Nerazzurri wing-back left Wasserman, it is his father Boris who is his sole agent. And since then, he has been trying to help his son get his ‘dream move’ to England.

He has also instructed the agents and middlemen to achieve that goal.

Jorge Mendes and Ali Barrat are also in the works and they tried to keep him in the Premier League in January. This brought Liverpool forward and there is every possibility that something will happen in the summer too.

Despite this, Inter is sleeping deeply. They will not regret losing him and will even accept it Selling him for €20m, while his release clause is €25m.

This should give hope to the Reds, who could be contacted again in the summer.

Our opinion: Liverpool probably don’t need Dumfries

The Netherlands international has performed really well since his return from injury. He scored two goals in the league game against Como, giving Inter a shot at the title.

However, that doesn’t mean he would be ideal for Liverpool. He is like a wing-back who focuses on making runs in the final third.

The Reds need a right-back but Dumfries have defensive weaknesses. Any deal for him would be cheap but tactically, he has a number of areas that need attention. This is why there may be better and younger options on the market in favor of Arne Slott.

Joshua Norris can’t seem to catch a break. The Buffalo Sabers will be without their starting center for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Boston Bruins on Thursday night.

Head coach Lindy Ruff confirmed that Norris is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury after not feeling well after Game 2. The 26-year-old veteran did not suffer any major injuries in the last competition, but illness has ruled him out for at least one game.

This is certainly a significant short-term setback for Buffalo – especially after losing to the Bruins in Game 2 which allowed Boston to tie the series 1-1.

Norris, in his first playoff action, was a reliable contributor in the opening two games. He averaged over 16 minutes on the ice, recorded six hits, won 53.1% of faceoffs, and helped the Sabers control 61.1% of shot attempts at 5-on-5 with him on the ice.

During the regular season, he scored 34 points in 44 games despite missing time due to upper body problems, providing valuable secondary scoring and depth from a third-line role.

Fortunately, the return of rookie Noah Ostlund is giving the Sabers a timely boost. The morning line rush showed the 2022 first-round pick slotting directly into Norris’ place as the third-line center, with presumably familiar wingers next to him.

Ostlund, set to make his Stanley Cup playoff debut, had been sidelined since March 25 with an upper-body injury against Boston – nearly a month on the shelf – but seemed ready to contribute after a solid rookie campaign in which he scored 11 goals and 27 points in 60 games.

While Ostlund brings skill, hockey sense and two-way ability, there are some concerns. Deployed primarily on the wing during the season, he has struggled on faceoffs (31.5% win rate) and is a smaller, less physical player (5’11”, 180 pounds), which has been a tough series. Buffalo has already thrown 83 hits through two games, highlighting the physical disadvantage.

The Sabers would ideally like to see both players healthy, but Ostlund’s entry provides depth and youth as they try to storm back into the series. Game 3 in Boston could depend on how effectively the third line performs without Norris’ experience and how Ostlund handles the increased responsibility in a high-risk environment.

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

armory And Atletico Madrid are among the clubs pursuing Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt in the summer.

The 29-year-old’s contract expires in June and he will leave Signal Iduna Park as a free agent. Both the player and BVB have confirmed his summer exit.

This makes Germany an international market opportunity for Arsenal, Atlético Madrid and other clubs.

Last month, Sports Witness Covered claims from Germany That the Gunners and Barcelona are ready to sign him.

He is fluent in Spanish and has a Catalan girlfriend, which could give the Camp Nou team an edge over Arsenal.

Atletico joins Arsenal in transfer race

Mark There is a detailed report on Los Rojiblancos’ interest in Julian Brandt and it also involves Mikel Arteta’s side.

Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann will join Orlando City in July and his team are considering several options. This also includes the player of Borussia Dortmund, who is the main target.

The Spanish club’s sporting director, Matteo Alemany, is leading Germany’s international efforts. He is also attracting interest from Arsenal, the Madrid club’s rivals in the Champions League semi-finals.

The Gunners are in the race to sign Brandt and face off competition from Diego Simeone to secure his services.

It is most likely that these two teams will not be the only teams fighting for the player who has already confirmed that he is leaving after this season.

The contract situation, performance and experience would make him an attractive option for many top European clubs. The increased competition may allow him to request better terms and more signing bonuses.

Marca made no mention of whether Atlético or Arsenal had made any progress nor about the player’s choice.

Prices, stats and agent information

Julian Brandt joined Borussia Dortmund in 2019 and scored 57 goals and 69 assists in 303 appearances.

He has played 1,934 minutes in 37 matches in all competitions this season, scoring 11 goals and providing three assists.

His Bundesliga statistics this season are as follows:

• Appearances: 25
• Start: 14
• Total minutes: 1,364
• Minutes per game: 55
• Target: 7
• Assist: 3

transfer market The BVB star is worth €20m, and had a high of €50m in June 2019, and is represented by his father, Jürgen Brandt.

Nearly six months after pleading not guilty, former NBA player and coach Damon Jones is poised to become the first defendant to plead guilty in a sweeping federal gambling investigation that has shaken fan confidence in the league.

A change of plea hearing for Jones in the sports betting case is scheduled for April 28 in Brooklyn federal court, according to a court filing Thursday. Prosecutors have until the end of next week to file statements on the exact charges he will plead guilty to.

In short, things are about to heat up. His attorney confirmed the change but emphasized that Jones is not cooperating with authorities. Which is a strange admission.

Jones initially pleaded not guilty in November 2025 to wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering charges in connection with an alleged scheme to provide sports bettors with non-public injury and availability information on NBA stars – specifically LeBron James and Anthony Davis – while he had privileged access to the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2022–23 season.

Former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones is expected to become the first person to plead guilty in a gambling scandal that led to the arrest of more than 30 people, including reputed mobsters and other basketball personalities. https://t.co/Z2zY5QCuZm

– ESPN (@espn) 16 April 2026

Interestingly, Jones’ change in plea comes just months after the league launched an independent investigation in which officials requested cell phones and documents from multiple teams. Among those receiving the request were Lakers employees Mike Mancias (LeBron James’ longtime assistant coach) and Randy Mims (executive administrator and another James associate), who voluntarily surrendered their phones and records.

It is important to note that James is not believed to be involved in any way. Mancias and Mims were reportedly under investigation for their relationship with Jones.

Jones allegedly sent a text message to a co-conspirator before the Lakers-Bucks game in Milwaukee on February 9, 2023. At the time, James was not yet listed on the official injury report.

“Bet big on Milwaukee tonight before info comes out,” he reportedly wrote.

James ultimately exited the contest with a lower body injury and the Lakers lost 115–106.

Jones is also alleged to have been paid $2,500 for a tip on Davis in January 2024, which suggests the Lakers star will have limited playing time against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to injury. The lead was denied, Davis played normal minutes and was effective enough to lead Los Angeles to a 112–105 win. The sports bettor who paid Jones for the tip and then placed a $100,000 bet on the Lakers was not happy.

From LeBron’s trusted shooting partner to federal guilty plea: The shocking fall of Damon Jones

According to ESPN NBA Insider Brian Windhorst, Jones and James’ history stretches back to the mid-2000s. They were teammates on the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2005 to 2008. After Jones’ playing career ended, the two maintained an on-and-off friendship. Jones later worked informally as a shooting consultant for James, including during the Cavs’ 2016 championship run under Tyronn Lue.

That bond gave Jones unusual access after years with the Lakers. The fact that he would betray a team that trusted him and befriended LeBron to sell insider betting tips is astonishing.

James and Jones had already fallen out of touch by the time charges were filed following an alleged altercation.

Jones faces a separate but related indictment involving alleged participation in a Mafia-linked, rigged poker game that defrauded high-rollers out of millions. Yes, that is correct. The mafia reportedly had a hold on NBA players. He also pleaded not guilty to those charges in November.

The sweeping investigation, which led to more than 30 arrests, has also ensnared people like Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups.

Jones’ expected guilty plea marks a significant development in the case. He would be the first person to plead guilty in this high-profile gambling scandal, potentially opening the door to sentencing negotiations for other players mentioned.

Rusty Weis is a lifelong fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Dallas Cowboys and Xavier Musketeers. He has been writing professionally… More about Rusty Weiss

It looks like another WWE legend is eyeing the end of his career in the near future.

The last 12 months have seen some big departures from three WWE legends. In July, WCW icon Goldberg competed in a WWE ring for the last time. In December, John Cena ended his incredible career. Then, in January, AJ Styles officially hung up his famous shoes. Strangely, all three were defeated by Gunther.

Still, there may be more coming in 2026. There has been speculation for quite some time that legendary luchador Rey Mysterio is preparing for his retirement this year. Additionally, there are rumors that this year’s SummerSlam in Minnesota could be Brock Lesnar’s last WWE match.

Becky Lynch confirms she is in her ‘final stages’

Well, while it may not be in 2026, we just got confirmation of another WWE great who will soon call it a career. During a new interview with Chris VanVleet, Becky Lynch confirmed that her current contract with the company will be her last, and that it is the “final run” of her career.

Lynch signed a new contract in January 2025, and it’s likely a three- or four-year deal. This means that she will be away from the business around WrestleMania in 2028 and 2029.

There were rumors going around for a long time that the deal he signed early last year could be his last deal. This isn’t entirely shocking since someone with a child like Seth Rollins would need to be home more often. While their daughter Roux often travels with them, eventually she will need to start school, and this requires the parents to be at home.

Lynch is considered the greatest female performer in WWE history and was part of the first all-female WrestleMania main event in 2019. Defeating both Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey to become unified champion.

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

Brighton and Hove Albion are once again working on the development path of Facundo Buonanot, with the midfielder – who is now at Leeds United and struggling – continuing to move between clubs as he builds experience in English football.

The 21-year-old moved to Leeds United in January after a brief spell back at Brighton from Chelsea. That sequence alone shows how the Seagals are handling him – carefully, but without assigning him a definite role yet.

His transfer to Chelsea last summer came somewhat unexpectedly. “When a big club like Chelsea comes, you can’t say no.”, He later revealed. But despite taking steps forward, he struggled to establish himself.

In the Premier League, he played only 45 minutes, with the majority of his involvements coming in cup competitions. There too, his influence remained limited, ending with only minor contributions.

The lack of rhythm has led them to their current position. Since arriving at Leeds United, Buonote has made only a handful of appearances and has yet to register a goal or assist. Once again, he finds himself adapting to a new environment rather than continuing to perform.

This stop-start trajectory is at odds with Brighton’s usual development model and raises questions about when, or where, he will eventually settle into a defined role.

South American interest emerges

Facundo Buonote’s next step is now being discussed outside England also.

River Plate is preparing itself for a move by manager Eduardo Coudet. Argentina’s coach knows the player and has already put his name forward internally, recognizing him as a creative option who can influence matches.

According to local journalist Mauro PalaciosI am speaking shredded tvThe interest is already pretty solid.

“River is going to enter the next transfer window for Facundo Buonote. He is 21 years old, and Coudet knows him. He belongs to an English club – Brighton”He said.

Coudet actually worked with him during his youth academy days at Rosario Central. And the reason behind that push was also explained, with a clear focus on her profile.

“He’s an attacking midfielder, a different kind of player. He’s a player who has goals, a guy who can win you games.”

There is also a deadline in mind, even if talks do not move forward immediately this summer.

“If it’s not in the middle of the year, he’s the player the Coudettes are waiting for at the end of the year.”

brighton remain in control

Facundo Buonanotte remains tied to Brighton until 2030, putting the Premier League club in a strong position.

They initially paid €6m (£5.2m) to sign him from Rosario Central in 2023, and his value has increased through consistent performances in England. Although their numbers are not explosive, they show progress and adaptability to multiple environments.

Given Brighton’s track record, another loan is more likely than a permanent sale at this stage. The club focuses on maximizing development before making definitive decisions on a player’s long-term role or transfer price.

Given how his spell at Leeds United has gone so far, Elland Road does not look to be a permanent home for Buonanotte.

River Plate’s interest adds a new layer to the situation, especially given Buonanot’s Argentine background. Nevertheless, any move will depend on Brighton’s wider strategy.

For now, the focus remains on leads and finishing the season strongly. What happens next will be decided on the south coast.

A new report suggests that the New York Mets and pitcher Freddy Peralta will not agree to a contract extension during the season.

The top priority for the Mets during the offseason was to acquire a legitimate ace, if possible. A big reason for their poor performance at the end of the season in 2025 was that they had no losing-streak stopper leading their rotation.

Well, they addressed it in January when they made a blockbuster trade for Milwaukee Brewers ace Freddy Peralta. 2025 was a historic year for the two-time All-Star as he posted 17 wins and a 2.70 ERA – both career bests. Unsurprisingly, shortly after the deal, speculation began regarding the impending free agent extension.

Locking the 29-year-old to a multi-year deal rather than letting him hit the open market would be a smart move. However, according to Tim Britton of The Athletic, an in-season extension is not something the Mets ever do.

Britton wrote, “The Mets’ hesitation to extend has persisted over nearly two decades of varying player cores, front offices and even ownership.” “The Mets are 27th in baseball in extensions signed this decade with three. They are 28th in extensions signed in the last decade under Wilpon ownership, with six.

“Since 2010, the Mets’ nine extensions are ahead of only the Detroit Tigers (eight) and New York Yankees (five).”

Sources suggest NY Mets will not give Freddy Peralta a season extension

Still, the club’s long history of being resistant to in-season extensions is not the only reason this is unlikely. Britton also said, “The Mets are unlikely to get deeply involved in extension talks across their entire roster, according to people familiar with the club’s thinking.”

Considering the big money the team has already invested in multiple players, it would be understandable if they would at least want to see how Peralta handles half a season in New York. Additionally, team president David Stearns has consistently shown that he is against major extensions for players 30 or older. Peralta will turn 30 in June.

However, if Peralta posts another All-Star season in 2026, the Mets are at major risk of losing his services in free agency this winter.

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

Aston Villa’s growing interest in Ibrahim Mbaye is now being supported by reports coming from France, with the forward’s situation at Paris Saint-Germain beginning to attract wider attention.

Aston Villa have made a habit of tracking young attackers across Europe. When a path opens, they start moving forward. In Mbaye’s case, his reduced role at Paris Saint-Germain could pave the way.

The 18-year-old is highly rated internally in Paris. He is powerful, direct and tactically sharp for his age. These qualities make him a natural fit for Premier League football. However, his actions declined at a critical stage of his development.

This is where the current noise begins to form.

France supports Premier League interest

according to TeamIbrahim Mbaye is expected to receive approaches this summer, with England highlighted as a possible destination.

The French outlet says his playing time has decreased significantly under Luis Enrique. That situation is already raising questions about his short-term future.

Interest from the Premier League is nothing new. The clubs made contact in January, but PSG refused to entertain any discussions. Since then, the context has changed slightly, even though the club’s public stance has remained firm.

Aston Villa are now among those positioning themselves. From their perspective, Mbaye represents a classic market opportunity. A young player, strong international momentum, but limited appearances at the club.

There have also been links to Manchester City. Reports suggest he visited their facilities, although his entourage has denied that claim. Still, the level of interest around him is palpable.

International format strengthens the case

Ibrahim Mbaye’s performances with the Senegal national team continue to push his profile upwards.

He recently provided one goal and one assist in matches against Peru and Gambia. This followed a promising Africa Cup of Nations campaign earlier this year. As a result, his international trajectory looks far more stable than his club role.

Luis Enrique has insisted that the club still believes in him. He highlighted the confidence given to Mbye and suggested that his time would come. Still, lack of minutes remains a major issue.

At the age of 18, regular football often dictates the next step. Without it, even top prospects start looking elsewhere.

busy summer is coming

Ibrahim Mbaye’s priority remains PSG. This has not changed publicly. However, L’Equipe’s reporting reinforces the idea that he is now watching the market more closely.

If his situation does not improve before the summer, Premier League clubs are likely to act quickly. Aston Villa already appear to be alert to that possibility.

For now, it remains a nascent movement rather than a defined conversation. Still, the combination of fewer minutes and outside interest is starting to create a familiar transfer pattern.

Aston Villa have made their transfer plans for the summer, the player has been described as ‘meteoric rise’.

🇸🇳 Ibrahima Ba | Aston Villa express interest in signing 20-year-old defender – face big Portuguese battlehttps://t.co/yWAOFmCoOg #avfc

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 31 March 2026

Arsenal are not slowing down their extensive scouting work in South America and are already keeping an eye on another young Brazilian centre-back.

The defender in question is 16-year-old Flamengo talent Daniel Thuram, who is already firmly on the club’s long-term radar. His nickname is not accidental – “Thuram” is a reference to former France defender Lilian Thuram, while his full name is Daniel Carvalho Marinho da Silva.

The centre-back is already considered one of the most promising talents in Flamengo’s academy. He combines strong physical presence with composure in possession and a reading of the game that is distinct for his age. Internally, he is seen as a player with a clear route to senior football.

Its development has started accelerating. Thuram made his first-team debut at the start of the season, playing briefly in Flamengo’s 8–0 win over Madureira in the Campeonato Carioca. While minutes have been limited, the club has been mindful of his performances.

He has been more prominent at the youth level. He was part of the team that won the Copa Rio Sub-17 in 2025 and is now included in the U20 team competing in the Copa Libertadores. Flamengo’s approach has been gradual, but the trajectory is clear.

Arsenal interest emerges alongside European attention

That steady growth did not go unnoticed. Arsenal, as well as scouts from Real Betis and AC Milan, have recently tracked the defender in Brazil, as reported RTI game.

The Gunners’ interest fits into a wider strategy. Arsenal have invested heavily in young defenders in recent years, often targeting profiles with technical quality and tactical intelligence early in their careers.

In Thuram’s case, those attributes are already visible. His comfort on the ball and ability to move into midfield areas suits the demands of modern Premier League football.

New contract and release clause explained

Flamengo have responded quickly to that increased attention. According to the Brazilian report, the club has extended Thuram’s contract until March 2028.

Crucially, the new deal includes a €50m (£43m) release clause for international transfers. For domestic clubs, the bet has been set at €20m (£17.2m), in line with Brazilian rules.

Timing is not accidental. Flamengo wanted to secure the player before any concrete European moves were developed.

Flamengo’s strategy to protect top talents

This renewal follows a clear pattern. Flamengo have made a habit of signing their best academy prospects early in order to protect playing plans and maximize future transfer value.

The club model has delivered strong financial returns in recent years. As a result, there is a clear emphasis on control – develop first, sell later, and only on favorable terms.

For Arsenal, this means any move for Thuram is likely to be long-term rather than immediate. However, interest has now been established, and the foundation stones are already being laid.

The next step will depend on his progress. If his development continues at this pace, Flamengo may struggle to keep Europe’s biggest clubs at bay for long.

Fulham are close to signing Ricardo Pepi, with a long-promised move from PSV Eindhoven now nearing completion.

Multiple Dutch sources, D including telegraphReport that PSV Eindhoven has reached a verbal framework agreement with Fulham. It would be one of the Dutch club’s biggest outgoing deals in years.

Transfer fee and contract details

The deal is valued at €36m, with performance-related bonuses potentially taking the total cost to €40m. PSV has also secured a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.

For PSV, the sale represents a major financial boost ahead of the summer window and underlines Pepi’s rapid development since arriving in Eindhoven.

Fulham’s long-running pursuit

Fulham have been interested in Pepi for several months. During the January transfer window, Fulham submitted an offer Which PSV seriously considered.

However, they ultimately decided to delay Pepi’s departure, as they were unable to secure a replacement before the deadline. However, even then, the expectation was clear; Fulham will return in the summer offering similar terms. That has now become true.

The deal for Pepi is now moving forward. Pepi is expected to travel to London in the coming days to complete his medical and agree personal terms.

If completed, the move would make Pepi one of the most expensive American players in soccer history. For PSV, the timing is ideal. The club can now plan the summer window with clarity, knowing that a major sale is quickly assured.

A big step forward for the club and the player

Pepi’s development in Eindhoven has been closely watched throughout Europe. He has impressed with his finishing, off-the-ball movement and mentality. His record of 39 goals and eight assists in 95 appearances highlights his consistency at club level.

The Premier League represents an important step forward, and Some observers have questioned how quickly Pepi will adapt.

But Fulham clearly believe the 23-year-old has the potential to progress in England’s top flight.

After months of negotiations and a near-miss in January, the move now appears to be complete with all parties coming together.

Given the frenzy surrounding the Miami Heat after star Bam Adebayo scored a historic 83 points on Tuesday night against the Washington Wizards, the team is undoubtedly focused on securing a better spot in the postseason. As the team has struggled with injuries, Friday’s injury report indicated that Heat guard Norman Powell could return, now adding Herro into the mix.

Both have been upgraded to “available” for Saturday’s crucial game against the Orlando Magic, as Powell has missed the last seven games with a right groin strain. Originally labeled as “week-to-week” by Miami, it seems as if seven games was good enough for his recovery, as the team is missing its leading scorer (22.5 points per game) and first-time All-Star.

Herro had missed the last two contests due to left quadriceps soreness, marking a major comeback from a 15-game absence due to a rib injury. Reminding the basketball world of his All-Star potential, he played every game after the All-Star break until last Tuesday.

In March, Herro was averaging 26.3 points per game on 53.7 shooting from the field and 51.7 percent from beyond the arc.

Could the Heat’s role be changing for Norman Powell with Tyler Herro?

As evidenced by the change in Powell and Herro’s Heat roles, the chemistry between the two has been a process throughout the season, with injuries coming their way, as Saturday will mark the 12th game the two have played together. Herro had missed a total of 45 games before Powell suffered a groin injury, with the latter taking on the role of being the main offensive weapon alongside Adebayo and flourishing, leading to an All-Star season.

However, Powell could perhaps see a role coming off the bench, mostly to get his feet under him to recover from injury, as Herro did the same after each injury. With Miami’s record at 38-29, sixth in the East, and Orlando at 37-28, fifth in the conference, there’s no denying how important Saturday’s game is for the Heat.

Before the offseason began, it felt like a foregone conclusion that the San Francisco 49ers would consider trading Mac Jones to capitalize on his newfound value. After all, the 49ers were able to get the 2021 first-round pick under contract to a two-year deal last offseason worth just $4.2 million per season.

Jones probably played the best football of his life in San Francisco, leading the 49ers to a 5–3 record while Brock Purdy was injured. With Jones now entering the final year of his contract, many felt the 49ers would trade away the 27-year-old.

Then, the 49ers’ front office started talking about how much they value Jones as a quality backup to Purdy. After all, they found themselves relying heavily on Jones last season, and he was a key part of their comeback run to the postseason. They don’t want to just give up on the QB, even if it’s a big opportunity for his career.

Thus, reports began to surface indicating that zero teams have inquired about trading for Jones. Others suggested that the 49ers might have spooked teams by asking for a second-day draft pick in exchange for Jones, who would have come with only one year of protection.

Now, athleticThe latest report from Diana Russini reveals exactly why teams are shying away from a Jones trade. Russini indicated that “a few teams” have called the 49ers about trading for Jones. Still, those interested have described the 49ers’ asking price as “astronomical.”

However she was not able to detail what the trade costs might be. Still, when other former Pro Bowl quarterbacks can be found at an even lower rate than Jones, it’s not hard to see why teams might not want to part with precious draft compensation. If the 49ers want to trade Jones, they will either have to lower their asking price or expect the team to be extremely desperate to miss out on their top target.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders ‘expect’ to target veteran Pro Bowl quarterback

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt could be headed to the Premier League and Aston Villa in the summer.

This is as of Monday’s edition imageWho look at Aston Villa options for the 29-year-old.

The Germany international has less than six months left on his contract. At the weekend, BVB Confirmed Via their official website that he would leave as a free agent after this season.

1. After the last league win over FC Köln, Borussia Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl confirmed Brandt’s summer move.

“I sat down with Juul. We discussed things and will be going our separate ways starting this summer. This could be an opportunity for both of us. There’s still a great deal of mutual respect,” He said.

“I think it was not easy for both of them because we worked together for a long time with mutual trust and achieved a lot. He always stuck to his word. Still, at a certain point you have to make a decision. They both decided it was the right decision for them.”

Why did Brandt decide to leave?

Bild relay Kehl’s comments and provide the latest information on Aston Villa as a possible destination for the player.

Brandt has played 1,803 minutes in 32 matches in all competitions this season, including 13 league starts, scoring 10 goals and three assists.

The newspaper claims he is worried about his role under Niko Kovac and is not happy with it ‘Become the face of BVB’s crisis’

He is one of the highest earners at the club, earning €8m per year. His high salary is another factor that has convinced Borussia Dortmund not to renew his contract.

The German could move to Aston Villa

At the start of the season, there were claims from the UK that Unai Emery’s side would consider signing the 29-year-old in the winter market. However, the game witnesses covered a german report Rejecting these claims.

That doesn’t mean Aston Villa aren’t keen or that the attacking midfielder couldn’t move to Villa Park in the summer.

Bild now claim the English club are being discussed as his next potential destination. It should be noted that no other club other than Aston Villa has been mentioned in the report.

Price and agent status

transfer market Brandt is now worth €20m, and his highest value in 2019 was €50m. He will now be available as a free agent in the next window.

Therefore, there is an attraction in a transfer to acquire him as a free agent. The midfielder does not have an official agent and is instead represented by relatives.

This could make things easier for Aston Villa when it comes to negotiating agent fees. Such costs are often much higher when associated with high profile free agents.

Last year, the Tennessee Titans secured their franchise quarterback by selecting Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Now it’s time to give him some help.

The Titans’ 30th-ranked offense could be getting a big boost. Still, with the Titans having over $90 million in cap space, they have plenty of money to spend.

According to CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones, the Titans have their sights set on upcoming free agent receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. The 25-year-old is coming off a career year with the New York Giants, where he recorded 92 receptions for 1,014 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Now he is looking to make money and the Titans may be ready to give him a blow.

Robinson will certainly generate interest from many other suitors. However, as Jones said, the connection with Daboll could be heavily in the Titans’ favor.

The 5-foot-8 Robinson may not be a No. 1 receiver, but he’ll be someone who can get open for Ward quickly. For a young quarterback, having a receiver they can rely on in a moment can make a huge difference. Robinson is probably coming off his first 1,000-yard season, but there could be better production around and teams like the Titans will be eager to find out.

RELATED: Tennessee Titans could move $82 million player

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

The Denver Nuggets have had to deal with a lot of adversity in terms of injuries this season and Aaron Gordon has been no exception. Gordon has played only 23 games due to several injuries, and he has not played since January 23 due to a right hamstring injury that has troubled him throughout the season.

However, it ultimately looks like Gordon’s absence will end after just six weeks, as according to Sam Amick of The Athletic, he aims to return on Friday night when the Nuggets take on the New York Knicks.

Although this is Gordon’s target date, he will still need to be cleared by the Nuggets’ medical team, as they have taken a cautious approach with him and fourth-year forward Peyton Watson, who has been sidelined for several weeks with a hamstring strain. Given their championship hopes this season, the Nuggets are in no rush to add any players back into the mix.

This is especially true for Gordon, who returned in January from a hamstring injury suffered in November, only to play 10 games before restarting the process. His staying healthy is essential for the Nuggets in the postseason.

On Sunday, league sources told ClutchPoints that both Gordon and Watson are recovering from their respective injuries and will be re-evaluated by Denver sometime this week, with the expectation that they can return to the field along with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray in 7-10 days.

If Gordon is cleared to play and return against the Knicks on Friday night, he would immediately provide a boost that the Nuggets are missing.

Over their last 16 games, the Nuggets have gone just 7-9, winning back-to-back games just once during that span. Without Gordon and Watson, as well as Cam Johnson at times, Denver has been left extremely weak at the forward position. More importantly, Gordon’s absence has left a void on defense that the Nuggets have shown no answer to addressing without him.

While Gordon may not be an All-Star level talent, the little things he does on both ends of the court have made his impact synonymous with the league’s stars.

In addition to being able to guard multiple positions and take a huge amount of pressure off everyone else in Denver, Gordon always plays an aggressive game in terms of making the extra pass or creating second chance scoring opportunities.

This season, he is averaging a career-high 17.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 50.9 percent from the floor and 40.0 percent from 3-point range. The Nuggets ranked near the top in the league when it came to offensive efficiency before Gordon’s injury, and that’s no coincidence.

As good as Jokic and Murray have been, their presence is vital to Denver’s overall success, which is why the team has been patient on Gordon’s road to recovery. Whether Gordon will make his return on Friday, his target date, is still unknown.

The Nuggets are currently 38-24 this season and are a full game behind both the Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves, who are tied for the 3-seed in the Western Conference standings.

Newcastle United and Chelsea are set to battle AC Milan for Darwin Nunez back to the Premier League.

This is according to TuttomercatowebRelaying information for Gazzetta dello Sport. According to the Italian newspaper, there is a three-way battle on the cards for the former Liverpool striker.

Their information is that AC Milan are targeting Nunez in the summer transfer window.

The Italian club are looking to strengthen their attack at the end of the season, and the Al-Hilal forward is among the players they are pursuing.

after the liverpool clash

The 26-year-old player is under contract with the Saudi Arabian club until June 2028. He joined them from Liverpool in August 2025 for €53m. He has scored nine goals in 24 matches since then, as well as providing five assists.

However, he was recently dropped from his home team following the high-profile arrival of Karim Benzema in February. This came after reports in January indicated that Al-Hilal would approve a loan move for the striker.

Now AC Milan are eyeing a summer move. However, Gazzetta insists that they are not the only interested party. According to his information, Chelsea and Newcastle United are also in the mix. Both sides have had problems with their strikers this season.

Chelsea or Newcastle?

Of the two, Chelsea makes more sense, as reports in England link Liam Delap with an exit this summer. It appears they also have no plans for Nicholas Jackson, who will return from Bayern Munich. Interestingly, he is also on AC Milan’s list.

Newcastle are unlikely to spend big on a striker given the purchases of Nick Voltemed and Yoan Wissa in the summer transfer window.

The Magpies paid a significant fee for those signings, and it’s hard to see them spending even more money on Nunez.

However, sources in Italy believe Chelsea and Newcastle are planning a battle with AC Milan for the Uruguayan.

The Los Angeles Clippers are finally getting a look at their shiny new toy. After weeks of waiting and disappointing performances on the sidelines, All-Star guard Darius Garland is ready to make his season debut.

Sources indicate Garland plans to dress on Monday night when the Clippers host the Golden State Warriors at the Intuit Dome. It marks a major turn around for a franchise that has struggled since acquiring the former Cleveland Cavaliers star in the blockbuster James Harden trade.

Garland has not played since January 14 due to a serious toe injury. The layoff was long, but the timing of his return couldn’t have been better. The Clippers have spent the last month focusing heavily on their depth, and adding a dynamic playmaker of Garland’s caliber completely changes the scope of this roster.

During his last healthy outing in Cleveland, the 24-year-old averaged 20.6 points and 6.7 assists to go along with the walking bucket, while shooting 47.2 percent from the field. His ability to navigate the pick-and-roll and knock down shots from deep provides a much-needed secondary scoring option alongside the existing core.

The matchup against the Warriors serves as a high-level litmus test. While the coaching staff will likely monitor his minutes as he regains his playing legs, Garland’s presence alone will loosen things up for the rest of the offense.

For a Clippers team trying to solidify its identity in the crowded Western Conference, Monday night isn’t just another regular season game. This is the beginning of the Darius Garland era in Los Angeles. If he can recapture the All-Star form that has made him one of the most coveted guards on the market, the rest of the league is officially on notice.

Some view Dwyane Wade as one of the best basketball players in the modern NBA, and his portfolio supports that claim. His portfolio also supports that he is a very successful entrepreneur, but that’s a story for another day.

The Miami Heat legend is also a rotating hybrid game and studio analyst for Amazon Prime Video’s NBA coverage, and if this latest clip is anything to go by, Wade doesn’t need all the hustle. That’s because he still has it, as evidenced by a clip from the NBA on Prime set, according to a post on X by ClutchPoints.

He still got it!

Dwyane Wade hits a no-look jumper 🔥

(via @NBAonPrime)

pic.twitter.com/skonV7g5Qc

– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 28 February 2026

In it, Wade can be seen hitting and sinking a no-look jumper with almost overconfidence before casually strolling over and patting several team members. Wade is part of a star-studded NBA on Prime roster that also includes Blake Griffin, Dirk Nowitzki, Udonis Haslem, Steve Nash and Candace Parker.

“Light work for D.Wade,” the clip said.

Spending the majority of his career with the Miami Heat, Wade won three NBA championships (2006, 2012, 2013) and was named 2006 NBA Finals MVP. Statistically, his dominance is undeniable: he earned 13 All-Star selections, eight All-NBA Team nods and three All-Defensive Team honors.

During his peak in the 2008–09 season, Wade won the NBA scoring title by leading the league in both total points (2,386) and points per game (30.2). To date, he remains the Miami Heat’s all-time franchise leader in points, games played, assists, steals, shots and shots taken, while he also holds the NBA’s all-time record for blocked shots by a guard.

And well, Wade is finding similar success off the court. They have aggressively bought into sports ownership, acquiring minority stakes in the NBA’s Utah Jazz (2021), the WNBA’s Chicago Sky (2023), and the MLS/NWSL’s Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals.

Through his 59th & Prairie Entertainment banner, he has become a heavyweight producer, garnering two Sports Emmy Awards (for The Redeem Team and The Dads) and an Oscar nomination for the short documentary The Barber of Little Rock.

The San Antonio Spurs remained undefeated in February. For Victor Vembanyama this is not a fact.

“Feels like an accomplishment. I think, looking back, we can say it’s been a satisfying month.

“It feels good.”

In defeating the 11 opponents they faced from February 1 to February 26, this period featured a game that could be considered close by most standards. And that win was by nine points.

“I think we only had one win that was single digits,” Wembley said, pointing to the team’s first contest of the month, a 112-103 win versus the Orlando Magic.

“So does that mean it was perfect? ​​Of course not. But looking back, you know it was never going to be perfect, so that’s pretty satisfying,” the Generations star continued.

Spurs correct mistakes during February streak

For a month starting in late December, Spurs found themselves playing against teams that were struggling themselves. After a third win in 10 days versus the Oklahoma City Thunder on Christmas Day, San Antonio lost at home two nights later to a Utah Jazz team that went 11–19. By the time they lost to the New Orleans Pelicans on January 6, the Spurs had lost four of six, with three of those setbacks coming to a team with a losing record and the other being to a Cleveland Cavaliers team that was a game above .500 when they went in. San Antonio.

“We showed that this was one of our weaknesses. I think especially about the loss against Utah that we had in 2025. After a good series of big matches, we had a few more average losses,” Wembanyama reflected.

During this 11-game winning streak, the team with the second-best record in the West not only handled three teams with losing records, but also took care of business in several contests against shorthanded contenders.

“That was already my mental state at that time. I think it’s something as a team that has potential, as a team that grows and has some success at the beginning of the season. For me, these are things we have to go through. And even though we know we have to take all the games the same way, those are the lessons that are best learned from failing, losing games,” Wembley admitted.

“It’s nothing that has bothered us. I think we’ve made progress in that regard, even if we’re not there yet,” said Spurs’ leading scorer.

Spurs’ Victor Vembanayama talks championship controversy

Asked whether Spurs’ performance in February proved Spurs are legitimate title contenders, Wembanyama offered no assurances.

“I can’t answer that because it’s the first time I’ve been in this position, but talking about the floor; I think it was something we had to raise at the beginning of the season to show that our ceiling is extremely high. Our record against the strongest teams in the league is fantastic.”

In addition to the above three wins against the defending NBA champions, the Spurs have defeated every Western Conference team except one that will qualify for an expanded postseason, including play-ins, when the season ends in late February. And the one team they haven’t been on top of – the Los Angeles Clippers – they haven’t played yet.

The Spurs will face the Clippers in early March as they look to build on the league’s best current streak.

Aston Villa and Crystal Palace were recently linked Real Betis winger Abed Ezalzouli, and now the latest report from Spain suggests Premier League interest is indeed rising ahead of the summer window.

local outlet game Claim the Morocco international has taken a big step forward this season. The 23-year-old has scored nine goals and provided six assists in 26 appearances, establishing himself as one of Betis’ main attacking threats. Importantly, his influence now extends beyond traditional wing play.

Abed has long been known for his dribbling and one-v-one ability. However, he has added a better end product in the final third. As a result, his profile has risen significantly throughout Europe.

Premier League interest resurfaces

According to Sport, several Premier League clubs are keeping a close eye on the winger. While the Spanish outlet does not describe the situation as advanced talks, they do insist that English clubs are more attentive to his progress.

Aston Villa have been linked with the winger From 2023, when they tried to sign him while he was still playing at Barcelona.

Abede’s strong Africa Cup of Nations campaign has further heightened that interest. His pace, direct running and confidence in wide areas make him a natural fit for English football. Therefore, it is no surprise that clubs such as Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are being mentioned in connection with him again.

For its part, Betis has no intention of actively selling. The Andalusian side are aware of the assets they possess and have reportedly rejected approaches during the winter period. Instead, they have postponed any serious discussions until the summer.

Financial parameters and Barcelona section

The story says that in England, figures of around €40m (£34m) are already being discussed. Furthermore, an eventual move could bring Abed an annual salary of between €5m and €6m (£4.3m-£5.2m).

That financial level will test Betis’ resolve. Although they may want to keep the winger, a strong offer could change the scenario.

There is also a secondary beneficiary. Barcelona retain 20% of Abed’s rights. As a result, any sale will yield proceeds to the Catalan club.

For Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, this situation may develop gradually. Still, with Abed entering what many see as a breakout phase, the Premier League noise around him is unlikely to subside before the summer window opens.

Bournemouth’s Luis Sinisterra faces even more uncertainty over his future, with reports coming from Brazil indicating that Cruzeiro does not intend to invoke a buyout clause in his loan deal.

According to a Brazilian journalist Thiago FernandesCruzeiro have no plans to sign the winger permanently.

The Colombian has not met the appearance-related targets that would trigger a mandatory buyout, and the Brazilian club are unwilling to pay €3.5m (£3m) for a full transfer.

Meanwhile, a recent detailed report globo esporte This explains why the deal is stalled.

Why did the injury record derail Cruzeiro’s plans?

Sinisterra joined Cruzeiro on loan from AFC Bournemouth last August, with the Brazilian side paying around €2.9m (£2.5m) for the temporary transfer. The idea was clear. He will regain rhythm, build fitness and strive to return to the Colombia national team before the 2026 World Cup. However, the gamble has not yet paid off.

In six months at Cruzeiro, Sinisterra suffered four different injuries and played only three matches. His latest setback came against Mirasol, when he was diagnosed with right thigh inflammation and was ruled out again.

The pattern is familiar. At Bournemouth, after transferring from Leeds United, he also struggled with muscle problems. Brazilian reports remind that he suffered three muscle injuries in England and missed more than 30 matches.

Cruzeiro implemented a Personal Strength and Balance Program From day one. Yet, the issues returned. He suffered a right thigh strain in September, then a left thigh muscle injury in October. Later in the season he managed seven matches, including two starts. another muscle problem Make it smaller.

In January, he even gave up part of his holiday to continue treatment and started pre-season early. He returned slowly, playing 30 minutes in the derby against America-MG and 54 minutes against Mirasol. breaking again.

What does this mean for Bournemouth

The loan runs until the middle of the year. Since mandatory purchase targets have not been met, Cruzeiro is not expected to proceed with the €3.5m (£3m) deal. From Bournemouth’s point of view, this creates a new decision point this summer.

Sinisterra is 26 years old and still under contract on the south coast. However, recurring muscle injuries continue to affect his market value and limit consistency. Without consistent minutes, it becomes difficult to structure a permanent exit.

Unless there is a drastic change in the coming months, the current direction points towards a return to Bournemouth and another reassessment of his future.

The Charlotte Hornets are set to make the debut of guard Coby White, who is battling a left calf strain. White will be ready for Charlotte when the team takes on the Chicago Bulls on Tuesday. He is listed as probable on the team’s injury report.

White used to play for the Bulls, so this will be somewhat of a revenge game for the experienced guard. This season, White is averaging 18.6 points per game. After spending several years in Chicago, he was traded to the Hornets in early February.

Charlotte has a record of 27–31 on the season. The club has lost two of its last three matches.

Kobe set to debut for White Hornets

White played his college basketball at North Carolina, so he’ll be playing in front of a lot of fans in Charlotte. The talented guard has averaged double figures in scoring in almost every NBA season he has played.

White says he was not at all surprised to be traded.

“Every time in my career I was like, I don’t think [it] Was [going to] That’s really what happens,” White said, according to the Associated Press. “But with the circumstances now, you know, a lot of us are coming into free agency this summer. And the team had to go in a certain direction, in a way. So, I wasn’t really surprised or anything like that.

This season with the Bulls, White started 26 games while appearing in 29 contests. He last played on February 3 in a match between the Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks. He scored 21 points in that game.

White is shooting nearly 44 percent from the field this season. His shooting statistics are down from last season, when he averaged over 20 points per game.

Charlotte and Chicago play Tuesday at 8:00 ET. Chicago’s record this season is 24–34.

It’s funny how a team’s record can affect a star’s injury return timeline. If the Boston Celtics were struggling to maintain a playoff position like many expected, fans probably wouldn’t expect Jayson Tatum to play this season. Although Jaylen Brown led the team to second place in the Eastern Conference, the public consensus is that number zero will speed up his recovery process and try to help the C’s win another championship.

Well, one should not jump to conclusions just yet. Despite making progress in his rehab for the torn Achilles he suffered during last year’s playoffs, Tatum isn’t ready to commit to anything.

“I don’t have a return date in mind,” he told the Celtics’ Bobby Manning on CLNS. “I take it one day at a time. I feel better than I did yesterday, and that’s the most important.”

.@RealBobManning Asked Jayson Tatum if he has a return date in mind:

“I don’t have a date… I just take one day at a time. I’m feeling better than yesterday.”
–@CLNSMedia pic.twitter.com/67bsMB4ubj

-Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) 21 February 2026

The four-time All-NBA first-team selection continued during his lengthy recovery. While it’s probably tempting to look toward the playoffs, he realizes the dangers of rushing the process. If Tatum comes back well below full strength he won’t be any help for Boston. Nevertheless, the 2024 NBA champion is still making every effort to reunite with his teammates before the end of the campaign.

Tatum, by his own admission, has participated in “a little 5-on-5”, giving fans some hope that he could get on the floor this spring. If the 27-year-old is able to get fit before the playoffs, the Celtics will immediately become a popular NBA Finals pick. But for now they are doing just fine without the franchise pillar.

Boston has done a great job of staying focused on the task at hand as they continue to win. Speculation will not benefit anyone. C’s head coach Joe Mazzulla himself said: “I don’t live on experience. I live on principle.”

Here’s what we know. The Celtics are one of the hottest teams in the NBA, and Jayson Tatum is getting stronger every day. The fans will take it.

Arsenal defender Jakub Kivior’s loan deal to FC Porto is likely to be costly even before it becomes permanent.

he is According to Correio da ManhaWhich covers the Defender today. According to the Portuguese newspaper, he could be set for a big bonus.

Kiwior joined the Portuguese side on loan from Arsenal in the summer transfer window. The deal includes an option for him to make it permanent, which is likely to be activated.

arsenal regret

The Polish defender has been earning praise since day one at his loan club. In fact, there have been signs of Arsenal having regrets after the defender Admitted that Mikel Arteta did not want him to leave.

It has been a good season for them too as Porto currently top the table, four points ahead of Sporting Clube de Portugal. Benfica are in third place with 52 points, seven points behind their rivals.

Kiwior has been a major part of their success, and he is sure to benefit from it. Corio reports that the centre-back will receive an additional €800,00 net per year. If he wins the title it will start from next year. This represents an additional €4m on his contract.

He currently earns €1.7m net, but if they win the title, his maximum salary cap at the club will rise to €2.5m.

Porto will pay the highest price for him when a €17m deal becomes permanent in the summer.

long term investment

They have already paid €2m towards the loan. They would then need to add a five-year contract, bringing their total outlay until 2031 to around €25 million. But there is no unhappiness about this fact.

Instead, Arsenal’s pursuit of the defender represents a major investment in the team. Expenditures on salaries of players and coaching staff have increased by 19% compared to last year.

That will increase even more if Kiwior helps them win the league, and that looks likely at the moment.

The Orlando Magic etched their place in the record books with an easy 131-94 win over the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on Thursday.

The Magic rained down three-pointers on the Kings, scoring 27 in total, setting a new franchise record for a single game.

orlando broke old team record Courtesy of Jett Howard with 2:33 left in the fourth quarter. For good measure, he added another three-pointer with 33 seconds remaining.

Jett Howard’s trey sets franchise-record 26 threes in a single game for Magic 🔥pic.twitter.com/uXY5kdLEsR

– ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 20 February 2026

Paolo Banchero made 5 of 7 shots from long range and finished with a game-high 30 points. He also had five rebounds and six assists.

Howard, Anthony Black and Tristan Da Silva each had four three-pointers, while Desmond Benn, Jalen Suggs and Devon Carter each had three three-pointers. Mo Wagner added a three-pointer.

Overall, the Magic went 27 of 50 from beyond the arc.

This may simply be an aberration, as Orlando is averaging just 11.5 three-pointers this season while shooting at a 34.2% clip, tied with three other teams for the league-worst percentage.

He was just three three-pointers away from breaking the league record of 29 long bombs set by the Boston Celtics against the New York Knicks in 2024 and the Milwaukee Bucks versus the Miami Heat in 2020.

The Magic were also part of another team record – sort of – as they handed the Kings their 15th consecutive losing streak, the longest in franchise history.

Black scored 20 points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals, while Benn had 17 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Orlando improved to 29-25, while Sacramento fell to 12-45.

The Magic will look to continue their impressive shooting from deep on Saturday against the Phoenix Suns.

Wrestling fans love a good mystery, and WWE has one set for this month’s Elimination Chamber premium live event. On this week’s edition of WWE Raw, a mysterious box arrived on the Box Stage with a note that it would not be opened until February 28, which is the date of Elimination Chamber.

Ever since the mystery box arrived, there has been speculation about who or what would be inside it. With that in mind, we present six ideas for what WWE fans will find when the boxes open next Saturday.

Chris Jericho

Many fans and podcasters are hoping that the mystery box is somehow connected to the return of Chris Jericho. There have been rumors for several months that the WWE veteran’s AEW contract was set to expire at the end of 2025, and all signs were pointing towards a return to WWE this year. Bringing him back just in time for WrestleMania 42 makes sense.

However, a new report this week claims that he is still under contract with AEW after his contract expired last year. So the likelihood of him or anything related to him being in the box seems very slim.

denhausen

If there really is a person in the mystery box, it would make sense if they weren’t tied to real life. So it would require someone who has some supernatural elements in his character. That’s why it makes sense to have AEW veteran Danhausen in the box.

The box mirrors when Dracula is sent to England in the famous Bram Stoker book, and Danhausen is like a hilariously wrestling version of Nosferatu. If a creature is kept locked in that box for several weeks, it makes for a funny start to the beloved comedy-driven character.

New WWE Hardcore Championship

Many people have an assumption that the mystery box that is opened at the Elimination Chamber must contain a person, but it could be one thing, and that thing could be a new belt. However, instead of introducing a new title, it would not be surprising if the company brings back one of its former championships.

Considering how the box looks, the return of a hardcore title would be an ideal choice. That belt has long been a favorite among fans, but the type of matches it brought about was a unique aspect of the Attitude Era. Adding more violent matches to diversify the circus that is WWE and provide some talent a new path to fame would be a fun surprise on the road to WrestleMania.

‘Broken’ Matt Hardy and Brother Nero

Going back to the idea of ​​a character with supernatural elements in the mysterious box. The second option is the unexpected return of the legendary duo, the Hardy Boyz. Recently, Matt Hardy claimed that the tag team will be on WWE TV again in 2026 after making several appearances on NXT last year.

But what if they came back to the company this time because their “Broken Universe” alter ego? Hardy being in TNA, but then the “Broken” version in WWE could be a fun confrontation and offer something unique for both brands. The characters that could potentially clash with Wyatt Six at WrestleMania could be something that will be established by his return.

New WWE European Title

In the past year, WWE has pushed hard into Europe and has begun doing live editions of Raw and SmackDown in major European cities. They have brought in even more European prospects in recent years.

That’s why now could be the right time for the return of the European title. When it comes to possible options for what’s in the mystery box, one possibility is the title being “shipped from Europe” for its return to WWE TV.

evil

Another guy who would be a wise choice to stay inside the box is former IWGP Champion EVIL. The longtime NJPW star reportedly recently became a free agent, and rumors claim he is linked to WWE. There are also some supernatural elements in his character. Therefore, the company is focused on how to present him to a North American audience unfamiliar with his work.

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

Three players from the Montreal Canadiens are set to compete in the men’s hockey quarter-finals at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano-Cortina.

Quarterfinal No. 1, Slovakia vs. Germany, 6:10 am ET/ 3:10 pm PT

Juraj Slafkovsky and Team Slovakia will face Team Germany to begin the quarterfinal festivities, one of the benefits gained by securing the No. 3 seed during the qualifying round.

All things considered, it’s been another dream performance for Slafkovsky at the Olympics, with three goals and three assists in just three games. Not only is he the leading scorer for his country, but he is also their de facto leader on the ice, setting the tone for the rest of the Slovaks on what can only be described as a lucky team that has done a great job of capitalizing on their hockey passion.

Men’s Hockey 🏒 What a goal by Montreal Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkowski! Between Slovakia and Sweden it is 1 to 1.@LNH_FR#MilanoCortina2026 #rcsports #Hockey #teamcanada #olympic games pic.twitter.com/frJpxGVdmX

– Radio-Canada Sports (@RC_Sports) 14 February 2026

Keep in mind, Slovakia has approximately 5.5 million citizens, which is about the same population as Alberta or British Columbia.

Punching well above their weight is the name of the game for Slafkovsky and the Slovaks, however, and they will be considered favorites when they face Germany on Wednesday.

That being said, Germany have one of the best players in the world in Leon Draisaitl on their roster, meaning Slovakia cannot take their opponents lightly.

James Duthie: “Who has influenced you, outside of Canada 🇨🇦 or the US 🇺🇸?”

Elliotte Friedman: “Juraj Slafkowski 🇸🇰, the best non-Canadian player in the tournament so far.” pic.twitter.com/B8dbVKaxjB

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

Quarterfinal No. 2, Canada vs. Czechia, 9:10 am ET/ 6:10 am PT

Nick Suzuki and Team Canada will put their undefeated record on the line when they take on Czechia in the second quarter-final.

Without trying to dabble in the usual arrogance of Canadian hockey, Czechia will have their hands full as they face one of the best teams ever.

David Pastrnak had this to say about Czechia’s match against Canada in the quarterfinals yesterday:

“This might be the best team we’ve ever played, so maybe we have to put respect aside a little bit and try to take their game to them.”

– Dan Rosen (@drosennhl) 17 February 2026

Canada is not only the top seed in the tournament, but they also easily defeated the Czechs 5–0 in their tournament opener. Suzuki scored a goal in that game on a great pass from Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid.

It remains to be seen where Suzuki will play in the lineup, as there is a chance John Cooper may want to use him in a shutdown role, but suffice it to say that the criticism of Suzuki throughout the Olympics has little basis in reality.

Can we stop this nonsense that Nick Suzuki is playing great hockey? Anyone below Mark Stone should honestly sit in front of Nick. Credit : @dimfilipovic pic.twitter.com/lnvWeUBqcU

– TURP (@JFTurpin) 17 February 2026

Quarterfinal No. 3, Finland vs Switzerland, 12:10 pm ET/ 9:10 pm PT

The third quarterfinal could include a Montreal Canadiens player, though there’s no guarantee Oliver Kapanen will finally get a chance to make a change on the Olympic ice.

As one of the youngest players in the lineup, his lack of playing time has not been unusual, although it must be said that he is one of the most productive players in the Finnish lineup, with 18 NHL goals to his name.

On that note, former Canadiens forward Joel Armia currently leads the Finns in scoring with two goals and two assists. Another former Hab, Sven Andrighetto, should feature prominently in the third quarterfinal match. The 32-year-old Swiss native has provided three assists in four games representing his country.

Quarterfinal No. 4, United States vs. Sweden, 3:10 PM ET/ 12:10 PM PT

The fourth and final game of the day will not feature any members of the Montreal Canadiens organization, although it remains to be seen if the Americans will regret their roster selection, as they overlooked both Lane Hutson and Cole Caufield.

Passive-aggressiveness aside, Team USA earned the second seed in the tournament, showing that they clearly brought one of the most talented teams to Italy.

As far as Sweden is concerned, relatively speaking their performance in international tournaments remains weak. This does not mean that they fail to win any game, but they fall short when it matters most. To their credit, Sweden won a gold medal in 2006, although it was only their second gold medal in Olympic history.

Despite having one of the most talented rosters at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, they will represent the seventh seed in the quarterfinals.

All Montreal Canadiens and 2026 Winter Olympic Games information via the IIHF.

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