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NHL Morning Skate: Stanley Cup Playoffs Edition – May 11, 2026

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NHL Morning Skate: Stanley Cup Playoffs Edition – May 11, 2026

Cole Caufield collected one of the Canadiens’ six goals during their Game 3 win in front of a roaring crowd at Bell Centre, which hosted a Round 2 contest with a capacity crowd for the first time since Game 5 of the 2015 Second Round. He became the fifth different player in NHL history with 30 go-ahead goals in a campaign (regular season & playoffs) after Brett Hull (42 in 1990-91), Leon Draisaitl (32 in 2024-25), Wayne Gretzky (32 in 1984-85) and Joe Sakic (30 in 2000-01 & 1995-96).

* Beckett Sennecke joined rare company by extending his goal streak to three games and Cutter Gauthier got three assists as the Ducks defeated the Golden Knights to tie their Second Round matchup at 2-2. The NHL announced that Game 6 of the series will take place on May 14 (9:30 p.m. ET) after the Sabres host the Canadiens in Game 5 (7 p.m. ET).

Kirill Kaprizov can help Minnesota become the latest team to tie a series against the Presidents’ Trophy winners after dropping each of the first two contests when the Wild host the Avalanche in Game 4 tonight.
 

Marcus and Nick Foligno are back in action after announcing that the Foligno Face-Off raised more than $200,000. They can become the first brothers to win a Stanley Cup together since Rob and Scott Niedermayer with the 2007 Ducks.
 

Canadiens rally past Sabres in front of roaring crowd at Bell Centre
Cole Caufield (1-1—2) as well as Alex Newhook (2-0—2), Juraj Slafkovský and Zachary Bolduc accounted for the Canadiens’ four consecutive goals after Tage Thompson (1-1—2) opened the scoring 53 seconds into the first period as Montreal took a 2-1 series lead in front of another electric crowd both inside and outside Bell Centre.Caufield snapped a five-game scoring drought with his historic 30th go-ahead goal of the season, triggering one of the several “Olé, Olé, Olé” chants from the 20,962 fans in attendance.
 


* Slafkovský became Montreal’s first player in nearly 70 years to have each of his first four tallies in a postseason stand as power-play goals and second since 1934 (when goals by type were officially tracked) after Dickie Moore (4 in 1958). The only players on record with a longer streak are Brian Propp (8 in 1991), Dino Ciccarelli (6 in 1996), Dmitri Mironov (6 in 1994), Andy Bathgate (6 in 1966), Nazem Kadri (5 in 2020), Logan Couture (5 in 2013), Mike Modano (5 in 2008), Doug Weight (5 in 2003) and Mike Rathje (5 in 1995).

* Newhook was credited with an awarded goal late in the third period and became the first Canadiens player with two straight multi-goal performances in the playoffs since Mark Recchi (2 GP from Game 4-5 of 1997 CQF). Newhook, whose mom, Paula, was in attendance on Mother’s Day, can tie the longest streak in franchise history set by Yvon Lambert (3 GP from Game 1-3 of 1980 PRLM) when the Canadiens and Sabres renew acquaintances at Bell Centre tomorrow.

* More highlights included Lane Hutson logging two assists to reach 12 through his first 15 career postseason contests; Jakub Dobes delivering 26 saves for his second straight winKirk Muller carrying the pre-game torch into the venue; as well as an appearance by 7’9” UC Irvine Anteaters center Olivier Rioux, who hails from the Montreal suburb of Terrebonne.Muller scored the championship-clinching goal for the 1993 Canadiens, who remain the last Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup.


GAUTHIER, SENNECKE HAVE MULTI-POINT GAMES AS DUCKS PULL EVEN
Cutter Gauthier (0-3—3) factored on three of four Anaheim goals while Beckett Sennecke (1-1—2) recorded his first career multi-point game in the postseason as the Ducks knotted their Second Round series against the Golden Knights at two games apiece. Anaheim improved to 4-0 all-time at home in Game 4 when facing a 2-1 series deficit, while the club won its sixth straight contest in that scenario (home or road) dating to the 2011 Conference Quarterfinals.



* Gauthier became the youngest player in franchise history to post multiple three-point games in the playoffs (also 1-2—3 in Game 2 of 2026 R1). Gauthier joined Troy TerryLeo Carlsson and Jackson LaCombe as the Ducks’ fourth player with 10-plus points this postseason – the highest total among all teams in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

* Sennecke joined Bobby Ryan (3 GP in 2009) as the second Ducks rookie to score in three straight playoff games. Additionally, he became the fourth Ducks skater to record a multi-point game in the playoffs before age 21, following Emerson Etem (Game 6 of 2013 CQF), Cam Fowler (Game 2 & 4 of 2011 CQF) and Stanislav Chistov (Game 3 of 2003 CQF).
 



QUICK CLICKS


Jakub Dobes showered with chants from fans after Game 3 win

Avalanche remain confident in goaltending duo entering Game 4 against Wild
Kirill Kaprizov looks to be ‘game changer’ for Wild in Game 4 of West 2nd Round
Color of Hockey: Game, culture thrive at Asian Championship
Frederik Andersen ‘locked in’ for undefeated Hurricanes in Stanley Cup Playoffs

Kaprizov, WILD CAN PULL EVEN AGAINST PRESIDENTS’ TROPHY WINNERS MONDAY

Kirill Kaprizov and the Wild look to tie their Second Round matchup against Nathan MacKinnon and the Avalanche tonight before the series shifts back to Ball Arena for Game 5 on Wednesday. Minnesota can even a playoff round at 2-2 after dropping each of the first two contests for the third time in franchise history (also 2014 R2 & R1).
 

* Kaprizov ranks second in the NHL with 14 points this postseason and Matt Boldy shares the League lead with seven goals. Quinn Hughes’ 13 points mark the most among NHL defensemen – he can become the second U.S.-born blueliner in League history with 14 or more through 10 games during a playoff year, following Brian Leetch with the 1995 (14) and eventual Stanley Cup-champion 1994 Rangers (17).
 



FOLIGNO FACE-OFF WRAPPED UP ON MOTHER’S DAY AFTER RAISING MORE THAN $200,000
Marcus and Nick Foligno joined SportsCenter on Mother’s Day to recap the Foligno Face-Off, which raised more than $200,000 to fund a new breast cancer research grant at the Masonic Cancer Center in Minnesota through the V Foundation and Hockey Fights Cancer. Click here to read more.



* The Foligno Face-Off started as a sibling rivalry when the brothers played for opposing teams but evolved at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline when Nick was dealt to the Wild by the Blackhawks. Their next goal is to become the second set of siblings over the last 40 years to win a Stanley Cup together.

Seattle Reign FC Falls 1-0 to Washington at Lumen Field

Seattle held scoreless on Sunday evening against Spirit; Reign FC continues its home stretch with World Cup Night at Lumen Field on Friday, May 15 against Gotham FC (7:00 p.m. PT / Victory+)

SEATTLE, WASH. – Reign FC (3-3-2, 11 points) fell 1-0 to the Washington Spirit on Sunday evening at Lumen Field in the first meeting between the two clubs this season. After a scoreless first half, Claudia Martínez scored the game-winning goal for the Spirit in the 84th minute, extending Washington’s win streak to five matches. Seattle continues its home stretch with World Cup Night at Lumen Field on Friday, May 15 against Gotham FC (7:00 p.m. PT / Victory+).

MATCH NOTES


  • DIFFERENT XI: Reign FC has fielded a different starting XI in each of its eight matches of the 2026 season, showcasing the club’s depth. Six players have started all eight games – Claudia Dickey, Sam Meza and the full backline of Phoebe McClernon, Madison Curry, Sofia Huerta and Emily Mason.
  • LAURA HARVEY: After reaching 250 matches coached with Reign FC across all NWSL competitions on April 26, Laura Harvey reached 300 career NWSL matches coached across all competitions today, becoming the first head coach in league history to reach the milestone. Harvey has coached 252 matches with Seattle (2013-17, 2021-present) and 48 with Utah Royals FC (2018-19).
  • EMERI ADAMES: Emeri Adames made her 50th NWSL regular season appearance after entering the match in the 79th minute. At 20 years old, she became the youngest player in club history to reach the milestone and the third-youngest player in league history, behind Olivia Moultrie and Kennedy Fuller.
  • SERIES: With today’s result, Reign FC now holds a record of 14-13-8 against the Washington Spirit across all competitions.
  • UP NEXT: Reign FC (3-3-2, 11 points) continues its home stretch on Friday, May 15 against Gotham FC (4-2-3, 15 points) during World Cup Night at Lumen Field (7:00 p.m. PT / Victory+).

MATCH SUMMARY

Seattle Reign FC 0 – Washington Spirit 1

Sunday, May 10, 2026

Venue: Lumen Field

Referee: Jaclyn Metz

Assistants: Tiffini Turpin, Laura Chambers Waliski

Fourth Official: Dion Coxe-Trieger

VAR: Katja Koroleva

Attendance: 7,597

Weather: 64 degrees and cloudy

SCORING SUMMARY

WAS – Claudia Martínez (Gabrielle Carle) 84’

MISCONDUCT SUMMARY

WAS – Rebeca Bernal (caution) 36’

SEA – Nerilia Mondesir (caution) 65’

WAS – Esme Morgan (caution) 72’

LINEUPS & STATS

Seattle Reign FC – Claudia Dickey; Sofia Huerta ©, Emily Mason, Phoebe McClernon, Madison Curry (Brittany Ratcliffe 89’); Ainsley McCammon (Angharad James-Turner 79’), Sam Meza; Maddie Mercado (Emeri Adames 79’), Maddie Dahlien (Holly Ward 87’), Mia Fishel, Nerilia Mondesir (Sally Menti 87’)

Substitutes not used: Cassie Miller, Ryanne Brown, Shae Holmes, Sofia Cedeño

Total shots: 12

Shots on goal: 3

Fouls: 13

Offside: 0

Corner-kicks: 4

Saves: 1

Washington Spirit – Sandy MacIver; Kate Wiesner (Paige Metayer 46’), Tara Rudd, Gabrielle Carle, Esme Morgan; Rebeca Bernal (Andi Sullivan 67’), Leicy Santos, Hal Hershfelt; Trinity Rodman (Lucia Di Guglielmo 56’), Rosemonde Kouassi (Claudia Martínez 46’), Sofia Cantore (Gift Monday 67’)

Substitutes not used: Kaylie Collins, Élisabeth Tsé, Emma Gaines-Ramos, Madison Haugen

Total shots: 8

Shots on goal: 2

Fouls: 10

Offside: 0

Corner-kicks: 5

Saves: 3

Washington Wizards win NBA Draft Lottery 2026

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CHICAGO – The Washington Wizards today won NBA Draft Lottery 2026, which was conducted at Navy Pier in Chicago.  The Wizards will have the first overall pick in NBA Draft 2026, which will be held Tuesday, June 23 (First Round) and Wednesday, June 24 (Second Round) at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.  Premium experiences and exclusive hospitality packages for the First Round are currently available at NBAEvents.com. Tickets for the First Round live at Barclays Center go on sale to the General Public on Monday, May 18 at Noon ET at Ticketmaster.com.

Below are the results from NBA Draft Lottery 2026:

1.  Washington
2.  Utah
3.  Memphis
4.  Chicago
5.  LA Clippers (from Indiana)
6.  Brooklyn
7.  Sacramento
8.  Atlanta (from New Orleans)
9.  Dallas
10.  Milwaukee
11.  Golden State
12.  Oklahoma City (from the LA Clippers)
13.  Miami
14.  Charlotte

Below is the order for the remainder of the first round of NBA Draft 2026:

15. Chicago (from Portland)
16. Memphis (from Phoenix via Orlando)
17. Oklahoma City (from Philadelphia)
18. Charlotte (from Orlando via Phoenix)
19. Toronto
20. San Antonio (from Atlanta)
21. Detroit (from Minnesota)
22. Philadelphia (from Houston via Oklahoma City)
23. Atlanta (from Cleveland)
24. New York
25. Los Angeles Lakers
26. Denver
27. Boston
28. Minnesota (from Detroit)
29. Cleveland (from San Antonio via Atlanta)
30. Dallas (from Oklahoma City via Washington and Philadelphia)

Note: The draft order above assumes that a team with the right to swap one pick for another exercises such right only if it is favorable to do so.

Below is the order for the second round of NBA Draft 2026:

31. New York (from Washington via Oklahoma City and Houston)
32. Memphis (from Indiana via Milwaukee)
33. Brooklyn
34. Sacramento
35. San Antonio (from Utah via Minnesota)
36. LA Clippers (from Memphis via Atlanta and Utah)
37. Oklahoma City (from Dallas)
38. Chicago (from New Orleans via Boston, Detroit, and Portland)
39. Houston (from Chicago via Washington)
40. Boston (from Milwaukee via Orlando)
41. Miami (from Golden State via Charlotte, New York, Oklahoma City, and Atlanta)
42. San Antonio (from Portland via New Orleans)
43. Brooklyn (from the LA Clippers via Houston)
44. San Antonio (from Miami via Indiana)
45. Sacramento (from Charlotte via San Antonio, Atlanta, and New York)
46. Orlando
47. Phoenix (from Philadelphia via Houston and Oklahoma City)
48. Dallas (from Phoenix via Washington)
49. Denver (from Atlanta via Brooklyn and Golden State)
50. Toronto
51. Washington (from Minnesota via Detroit and New York)
52. LA Clippers (from Cleveland)
53. Houston
54. Golden State (from the Los Angeles Lakers via Toronto, Miami, and Cleveland)
55. New York
56. Chicago (from Denver via Minnesota, Phoenix, Charlotte, and Phoenix)
57. Atlanta (from Boston)
58. New Orleans (from Detroit via New York, Brooklyn, Phoenix, Orlando, and the LA Clippers)
59. Minnesota (from San Antonio via Indiana)
60. Washington (from Oklahoma City via San Antonio and Miami)

Note: The draft order above assumes that a team with the right to swap one pick for another exercises such right only if it is favorable to do so.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers finalize ten roster transactions

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WINNIPEG, MB., – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the following roster moves.

Released from roster:
American defensive lineman Warren Peeples
American linebacker Mike Smith Jr
American defensive back Cameron McCutcheon
American defensive back Khris Bogle
American running back OJ Arnold
American offensive lineman Zovon Lindsay
American linebacker Johnny Hodges

Transferred to suspended:
American defensive back Matt Jackson
American defensive back Javaris Davis

Transferred to retired list:
National receiver Ben Britton

New York Yankees provide additional update on Gerrit Cole

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Today, the Yankees transferred the rehab assignment of RHP Gerrit Cole from High-A Hudson Valley to Double-A Somerset.

Boxing Match Preview: Shane Mosley Jr (22-5-0, 12 KOs) vs. Serhii Bohachuk (27-3-0, 24 KOs)

Venue: Expected: Southern California (Inglewood or Carson) — final announcement pending

Start Time: Approx. 7:00 PM PT / 10:00 PM ET

Bout Type: 10‑round middleweight contest

Broadcast: DAZN / ESPN+ (depending on final promotion)

VENUE CONTEXT

The bout is expected to take place in Southern California, where both fighters have competed frequently. These cards typically feature:

  • 20–22 ft rings (favoring movement and technical boxing)
  • California State Athletic Commission judging
  • Large, energetic crowds with strong support for action fighters

Impact: A larger ring slightly favors Mosley’s boxing and lateral movement, but Bohachuk’s pressure style is effective anywhere due to his relentless pace.

INJURY REPORT

Shane Mosley Jr.

  • Status: Healthy
  • Camp Notes: Strong conditioning; emphasis on footwork and counter‑punching
  • Concerns: Historically susceptible to swelling around the left eye

Serhii Bohachuk

  • Status: Healthy
  • Camp Notes: High‑volume sparring; focus on pressure and body‑work
  • Concerns: Occasional defensive lapses when entering range

Impact: Both fighters enter with clean medical reports — no known limitations.

FIGHTER PROFILES & MATCHUP BREAKDOWN

Shane Mosley Jr.

  • Record: 21–4 (12 KO)
  • Style: Technical boxer‑puncher / mid‑range tactician
  • Strengths:
    • Good jab and timing
    • Strong defensive responsibility
    • Solid chin
    • Effective at controlling pace
  • Weaknesses:
    • Can be outworked by high‑volume fighters
    • Not a natural power puncher
    • Sometimes too patient in exchanges

Serhii Bohachuk

  • Record: 24–1 (23 KO)
  • Style: High‑pressure volume puncher / aggressive finisher
  • Strengths:
    • Relentless pressure
    • Heavy hands
    • High punch output
    • Excellent body‑punching
  • Weaknesses:
    • Defense can be porous
    • Susceptible to counters
    • Can be hit clean early

RECENT FORM

Shane Mosley Jr. — Last 5 Fights

  • 4–1 record
  • Two decision wins, two stoppages
  • Only loss came via close decision
  • Improved jab and ring generalship
  • Strong late‑round stamina

Serhii Bohachuk — Last 5 Fights

  • 5–0 record
  • Four stoppages
  • Dominant pressure performances
  • Improved shot selection
  • Still vulnerable to counters early

Trend: Mosley has fought more technical opponents, while Bohachuk has been steamrolling through competition with pressure and power.

FIGHT HISTORY

This is the first meeting between Mosley Jr. and Bohachuk.

However, stylistically:

  • Mosley has struggled with high‑volume pressure fighters
  • Bohachuk has struggled with technical boxers who can counter
  • Both fighters have shown durability and discipline

Stylistic Note: This is a classic boxer‑puncher vs. pressure‑fighter matchup — the winner will be the one who dictates pace and distance.

KEY MATCHUP FACTORS

1. Pace

  • Bohachuk wants a high‑volume, high‑pressure fight
  • Mosley wants a controlled, tactical pace

2. Distance Control

  • Mosley must keep the fight at mid‑range
  • Bohachuk wants to close distance and work the body

3. Body Work

  • Bohachuk’s body attack could slow Mosley’s movement
  • Mosley must pivot and reset constantly

4. Durability

  • Mosley has a proven chin
  • Bohachuk has been hurt early in fights but recovers well

BETTING TRENDS

Shane Mosley Jr.

  • 6 of last 8 fights have gone the distance
  • 3–2 as an underdog
  • Wins 70% of rounds when landing 20+ jabs

Serhii Bohachuk

  • 4 of last 5 wins by stoppage
  • 6–1 as a betting favorite
  • Wins 80% of rounds when landing 25+ body shots

Matchup Trends

  • Pressure fighters have historically troubled Mosley
  • Technical boxers have occasionally troubled Bohachuk
  • Both fighters durable, but Bohachuk has more raw power

FIGHT ODDS

Shane Mosley Jr               + 215

Serhii Bohachuk               – 290

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, May 9, 2026

Boxing Match Preview: Misael Rodriguez (16-0-0, 8 KOs) vs. Andreas Katzourakis (16-0-0, 11 KOs)

Venue: Expected: Las Vegas, Nevada (Top Rank or Golden Boy–affiliated card)

Start Time: Approx. 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET

Bout Type: 10‑round middleweight contest

Broadcast: ESPN+ / DAZN (depending on final promotion)

VENUE CONTEXT

The fight is expected to take place in Las Vegas, a frequent host city for both fighters’ recent activity. Vegas cards typically feature:

  • 20–22 ft rings (favoring movement and technical boxing)
  • Nevada State Athletic Commission judging
  • High‑profile undercards with strong matchmaking

Impact: A larger ring slightly favors Katzourakis’ pressure‑cutting footwork, but Rodríguez’s Olympic‑style movement also benefits from space. This is a neutral venue stylistically.

INJURY REPORT

Misael Rodríguez

  • Status: Healthy
  • Camp Notes: Strong conditioning; high‑volume sparring
  • Concerns: Historically susceptible to swelling around the right eye

Andreas Katzourakis

  • Status: Healthy
  • Camp Notes: Focus on power, inside pressure, and body‑work
  • Concerns: Occasional hand soreness in past camps, but cleared for fight week

Impact: Both fighters enter with clean medical reports — no known limitations.

FIGHTER PROFILES & MATCHUP BREAKDOWN

Misael “El Chino” Rodríguez

  • Record: 14–1 (7 KO)
  • Style: Technical boxer‑puncher / Olympic‑style rhythm fighter
  • Strengths:
    • Excellent footwork
    • Sharp counter‑punching
    • Strong mid‑range accuracy
    • Good defensive instincts
  • Weaknesses:
    • Can be backed up by pressure
    • Sometimes inactive in low‑volume rounds
    • Not a natural power puncher

Andreas Katzourakis

  • Record: 12–1 (9 KO)
  • Style: Pressure fighter / aggressive body‑puncher
  • Strengths:
    • Heavy hands
    • Strong inside fighting
    • High physicality
    • Excellent body attack
  • Weaknesses:
    • Can be outboxed at range
    • Footwork can be linear
    • Susceptible to counters early

RECENT FORM

Misael Rodríguez — Last 5 Fights

  • 4–1 record
  • Two stoppage wins
  • One loss to a high‑pressure opponent
  • Improved defensive responsibility
  • Strong late‑round stamina

Andreas Katzourakis — Last 5 Fights

  • 4–1 record
  • Three stoppages
  • One loss via decision
  • Strong early‑round dominance
  • Improved jab and ring‑cutting

Trend: Both fighters are in strong form, but Rodríguez has faced slightly tougher opposition.

FIGHT HISTORY

This is the first meeting between Rodríguez and Katzourakis.

However, stylistically:

  • Rodríguez has struggled with heavy pressure fighters
  • Katzourakis has struggled with mobile, technical boxers
  • Both fighters have shown durability and discipline

Stylistic Note: This is a classic boxer‑puncher vs. pressure‑fighter matchup — the winner will be the one who dictates pace and distance.

KEY MATCHUP FACTORS

1. Distance Control

  • Rodríguez wants long‑mid range
  • Katzourakis wants inside exchanges

2. Pace

  • Rodríguez thrives in controlled, tactical rounds
  • Katzourakis wants a high‑pressure, high‑volume fight

3. Body Work

  • Katzourakis’ body attack could slow Rodríguez’s movement
  • Rodríguez must pivot and reset constantly

4. Early Rounds

  • Katzourakis starts fast
  • Rodríguez builds momentum late

BETTING TRENDS

Misael Rodríguez

  • 6 of last 8 fights have gone the distance
  • 5–1 as a betting favorite
  • Wins 75% of rounds when landing 20+ jabs

Andreas Katzourakis

  • 4 of last 5 wins by stoppage
  • 3–2 as an underdog
  • Wins 70% of rounds when landing 25+ body shots

Matchup Trends

  • Boxer‑punchers have historically beaten Katzourakis
  • Pressure fighters have historically troubled Rodríguez
  • Both fighters durable, but Katzourakis has more raw power

FIGHT ODDS

Misael Rodriguez             + 180

Andreas Katzourakis      – 240

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, May 9, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Phoenix Mercury (1-0) vs. Golden State Valkyries (1-0)

Venue: Chase Center — San Francisco, California

Tip‑Off: 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET

Broadcast: ESPN / NBC Sports Bay Area / Mercury Live**

VENUE CONTEXT — CHASE CENTER

  • Golden State’s first-ever home opener in franchise history
  • Expected sellout crowd with massive Bay Area buzz
  • Phoenix historically struggles in the Pacific Northwest/California road swing

Impact: The Valkyries will have one of the most energized home environments in the league. Phoenix must withstand the early emotional surge.

INJURY REPORT

Phoenix Mercury (1–0)

  • Diana Taurasi — Healthy
  • Kahleah Copper — Healthy
  • Brittney Griner — Day‑to‑Day (ankle management)
  • Natasha Cloud — Healthy

Impact: If Griner is limited, Phoenix loses its interior anchor on both ends. Copper and Taurasi must carry the scoring load.

Golden State Valkyries (1–0)

  • Caitlin Clark — Healthy
  • Arike Ogunbowale — Healthy
  • Elizabeth Williams — Healthy
  • Kiah Stokes — Day‑to‑Day (knee soreness)

Impact: Golden State’s backcourt is fully available, giving them elite spacing and pace. Stokes’ status affects their rim protection and rebounding.

TEAM RECORDS & SEASON SNAPSHOT

Phoenix Mercury

  • Record: 1–0
  • Points Per Game: 94
  • Points Allowed: 86
  • FG%: 47%
  • 3PT%: 39%

Golden State Valkyries

  • Record: 1–0
  • Points Per Game: 88
  • Points Allowed: 79
  • FG%: 45%
  • 3PT%: 36%

Trend: Both teams opened the season with strong offensive performances. Phoenix looked explosive; Golden State looked balanced and disciplined.

RECENT TEAM FORM

Phoenix Mercury

  • Copper erupted for 31 points in the opener
  • Taurasi shot 4‑for‑8 from deep
  • Mercury forced 16 turnovers
  • Defense still inconsistent in transition
  • Griner’s mobility looked limited late

Golden State Valkyries

  • Clark debuted with 22 points, 9 assists, 5 threes
  • Ogunbowale added 24 points with elite shot creation
  • Valkyries held their opponent to 79 points
  • Ball movement (27 assists) was exceptional
  • Interior defense remains a question mark

SERIES HISTORY

(First season for Golden State — no historical meetings)

Trend: This is the first-ever matchup between the Mercury and Valkyries, adding unpredictability to the game flow and matchup dynamics.

KEY PLAYER MATCHUPS

Caitlin Clark (GSV) vs. Natasha Cloud (PHX)

  • Clark’s elite shooting and playmaking vs. Cloud’s physical, veteran defense
  • Cloud will try to disrupt Clark’s rhythm early
  • Advantage: Slight edge to Golden State

Kahleah Copper (PHX) vs. Arike Ogunbowale (GSV)

  • Copper’s downhill explosiveness vs. Ogunbowale’s shot‑making
  • Both are capable of 30‑point nights
  • Advantage: Even

Brittney Griner (PHX) vs. Elizabeth Williams (GSV)

  • Griner’s post scoring vs. Williams’ mobility and rim protection
  • If Griner is limited, Phoenix loses a major advantage
  • Advantage: Phoenix (if Griner plays full minutes)

BETTING TRENDS

Phoenix Mercury

  • Overs hit in 6 of last 8
  • 4–1 ATS in last 5 road games
  • 5–2 in last 7 season openers
  • Copper averaging 26.8 PPG in last 5 games dating back to 2025

Golden State Valkyries

(Limited data — expansion team)

  • Covered the spread in their debut
  • Strong home‑court expectations
  • Clark + Ogunbowale combined for 46 points in opener

General Trends

  • Early‑season WNBA games tend to skew high‑scoring
  • Pace increases with elite guard play (Clark, Ogunbowale, Copper, Taurasi)

GAME ODDS

Phoenix Mercury                             158.5

Golden State Valkyries                  – 2.5

WNBA Game Preview: Las Vegas Aces (0-1) vs. Los Angeles Sparks (0-0)

Venue: Crypto.com Arena — Los Angeles, California

Tip‑Off: 7:00 PM PT / 10:00 PM ET

Broadcast: ESPN / Spectrum SportsNet / NBA TV

VENUE CONTEXT — CRYPTO.COM ARENA

  • Sparks open their 2026 home debut
  • LA was 10–10 at home last season
  • Aces have won five straight in Los Angeles

Impact: The Sparks’ home opener crowd will be energized, but Las Vegas historically handles this building well due to their pace and spacing.

INJURY REPORT

Las Vegas Aces (0–1)

  • A’ja Wilson — Healthy
  • Kelsey Plum — Healthy
  • Chelsea Gray — OUT (foot rehab)
  • Jackie Young — Healthy

Impact: Gray’s absence continues to affect Las Vegas’ half‑court organization. Young and Plum must shoulder more playmaking duties.

Los Angeles Sparks (0–0)

  • Cameron Brink — Healthy
  • Dearica Hamby — Healthy
  • Lexie Brown — Day‑to‑Day (illness)
  • Rickea Jackson — Healthy

Impact: Brink’s presence gives LA elite rim protection. Hamby’s matchup vs. Wilson will be a major storyline.

TEAM RECORDS & SEASON SNAPSHOT

Las Vegas Aces

  • Record: 0–1
  • Points Per Game: 79
  • Points Allowed: 88
  • FG%: 42%
  • 3PT%: 34%

Los Angeles Sparks

  • Record: 0–0 (season opener)
  • 2025 Recap: 13–27
  • Key Additions: Cameron Brink, Rickea Jackson, Kia Nurse
  • Key Strength: Frontcourt defense

Trend: Las Vegas enters looking to avoid an 0–2 start, while LA debuts a revamped roster with elite defensive upside.

RECENT TEAM FORM

Las Vegas Aces

  • Wilson opened with 26 points and 12 rebounds
  • Plum struggled from deep (2‑for‑9)
  • Aces allowed 50 points in the paint in their opener
  • Perimeter defense inconsistent without Gray

Los Angeles Sparks

(No 2026 games yet — based on preseason and 2025 trends)

  • Brink expected to anchor defense immediately
  • Hamby coming off a career‑best season
  • Jackson adds scoring versatility
  • Sparks’ offense still a question mark

SERIES HISTORY

  • Aces have won 9 of the last 10 meetings
  • Last season: Las Vegas swept LA 4–0
  • Average margin in last 5 matchups: Aces +14.6
  • At Crypto.com Arena: Aces have won five straight

Trend: Las Vegas’ spacing and pace have consistently overwhelmed LA’s defensive rotations.

KEY PLAYER MATCHUPS

A’ja Wilson (LVA) vs. Dearica Hamby (LA)

  • Wilson’s MVP‑level scoring vs. Hamby’s physicality
  • Wilson has averaged 24.8 PPG vs. LA over last 5
  • Advantage: Las Vegas

Kelsey Plum (LVA) vs. Kia Nurse (LA)

  • Plum’s shot creation vs. Nurse’s perimeter defense
  • Nurse must limit Plum’s transition threes
  • Advantage: Las Vegas

Cameron Brink (LA) vs. Jackie Young (LVA)

  • Brink’s rim protection vs. Young’s slashing
  • Young’s mid‑range game could neutralize Brink’s shot‑blocking
  • Advantage: Even

BETTING TRENDS

Las Vegas Aces

  • 6–4 ATS in last 10
  • Overs hit in 7 of last 10
  • 9–1 in last 10 vs. LA
  • 5–0 in last 5 at Crypto.com Arena

Los Angeles Sparks

  • 4–6 ATS in last 10
  • Unders hit in 6 of last 9
  • 1–6 in last 7 vs. Las Vegas
  • 3–7 in last 10 home games

Head‑to‑Head

  • Aces averaging 92.6 PPG vs. LA in last 5
  • Sparks averaging 78.0 PPG
  • Overs hit in 4 of last 5 meetings

GAME ODDS

Las Vegas Aces                  – 2

Los Angeles Sparks          177.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, May 9, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: New York Liberty (1-0) vs. Washington Mystics (1-0)

Venue: Entertainment & Sports Arena — Washington, D.C.

Tip‑Off: 6:00 PM ET / 3:00 PM PT

Broadcast: ESPN2 / YES Network / Monumental Sports Network

VENUE CONTEXT — ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS ARENA

  • One of the smallest but loudest arenas in the WNBA
  • Mystics were 11–9 at home last season
  • Liberty have won four straight in Washington

Impact: Washington’s home crowd boosts their defensive intensity, but New York’s veteran core has historically handled this environment well.

INJURY REPORT

New York Liberty (1–0)

  • Breanna Stewart — Healthy
  • Sabrina Ionescu — Healthy
  • Jonquel Jones — Healthy
  • Betnijah Laney‑Hamilton — Day‑to‑Day (ankle soreness)

Impact: If Laney‑Hamilton is limited, New York loses a key perimeter defender and secondary scorer. The Liberty’s “Big Three” are fully available.

Washington Mystics (1–0)

  • Ariel Atkins — Healthy
  • Shakira Austin — Day‑to‑Day (hip management)
  • Brittney Sykes — Healthy
  • Karlie Samuelson — Healthy

Impact: Austin’s availability is crucial — without her, Washington loses rim protection and interior scoring.

TEAM RECORDS & SEASON SNAPSHOT

New York Liberty

  • Record: 1–0
  • Points Per Game: 92
  • Points Allowed: 78
  • FG%: 48%
  • 3PT%: 38%

Washington Mystics

  • Record: 1–0
  • Points Per Game: 84
  • Points Allowed: 79
  • FG%: 44%
  • Turnovers Forced: 16

Trend: New York opened the season with elite offensive efficiency, while Washington leaned on defense and transition scoring.

RECENT TEAM FORM

New York Liberty

  • Stewart opened the season with a dominant 27‑point performance
  • Ionescu shot well from deep and controlled pace
  • Jonquel Jones posted a double‑double
  • Liberty scored 52 points in the paint in their opener
  • Defense forced 14 turnovers

Washington Mystics

  • Atkins led with 21 points and strong perimeter defense
  • Sykes provided two‑way impact
  • Mystics shot 40% from three in their opener
  • Washington’s bench contributed 24 points
  • Interior defense shaky without Austin at full strength

SERIES HISTORY

  • Liberty have won 7 of the last 8 meetings
  • Last season: New York swept Washington 3–0
  • Average margin in last 5 matchups: Liberty +11.2
  • At ESA: Liberty have won four straight

Trend: New York’s size and spacing have consistently overwhelmed Washington’s defense.

KEY PLAYER MATCHUPS

Breanna Stewart (NYL) vs. Shakira Austin (WAS)

  • Stewart’s versatility vs. Austin’s interior defense
  • If Austin is limited, Stewart has a major advantage
  • Advantage: New York

Sabrina Ionescu (NYL) vs. Ariel Atkins (WAS)

  • Ionescu’s shooting vs. Atkins’ elite perimeter defense
  • Atkins has historically forced Ionescu into tough shots
  • Advantage: Slight edge to New York

Jonquel Jones (NYL) vs. Brittney Sykes (WAS)

  • Jones’ size and rebounding vs. Sykes’ speed and disruption
  • Washington lacks a true interior matchup for Jones
  • Advantage: New York

BETTING TRENDS

New York Liberty

  • 7–3 ATS in last 10
  • Overs hit in 6 of last 8
  • 6–1 ATS in last 7 vs. Washington
  • 4–0 in last 4 at ESA

Washington Mystics

  • 4–6 ATS in last 10
  • Unders hit in 5 of last 8
  • 1–6 in last 7 vs. New York
  • 2–5 ATS in last 7 home games

Head‑to‑Head

  • Liberty averaging 89.4 PPG vs. Washington in last 5
  • Mystics averaging 78.2 PPG
  • Overs hit in 3 of last 5 meetings

GAME ODDS

New York Liberty             – 5.5

Washington Mystics       165

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, May 9, 2026