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#NHLStats Pack: Looking Ahead to the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft

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#NHLStats Pack: Looking Ahead to the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft

Round 1 will take place on Friday, June 26 (7 p.m. ET, ESPN, ESPN+, SN, TVAS). Rounds 2‑7 will be held on Saturday, June 27 (11 a.m. ET, NHLN, ESPN+, SN).

NHL DRAFT RETURNS TO BUFFALO
After a resurgent year that saw the Sabres finish as the No. 1 seed in their division for the first time in 16 years, clinch a playoff spot for the first time in 15 years and earn a series win for the first time in 19 years, it seems fitting that the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft returns to Buffalo after many pieces of their core were drafted and developed by the franchise, including No. 1 picks Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. It will mark the first time in a decade and the fourth time overall the franchise will host the draft.

* CLICK HERE for 125 prospect profiles including scouting reports (updated June 18)

* CLICK HERE for legacy prospects and NHL ties

* CLICK HERE for notable team picks at current drafting position (Picks 1-32)

* The first 16 selections were determined at the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery on May 5 – the remaining order was announced at the conclusion of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final.



* There is a memorable history of No. 1 picks who had their name called at an NHL Draft hosted in Buffalo going on to have an impactful career: Hall of Famer, Canada Cup and Olympic champion Eric Lindros (1991 by QUE), Stanley Cup champion and World Cup of Hockey winner/MVP Vincent Lecavalier (1998 by TBL) and Olympic gold medalist Auston Matthews (2016 by TOR) who stands as the only active player to hold an all-time goals record for an Original Six franchise.


 

DÉJÀ VU A DECADE LATER FOR THE MAPLE LEAFS

When the NHL Draft was last held in Buffalo a decade ago, the Maple Leafs retained the No. 1 pick through the NHL Draft Lottery and took to the podium in Buffalo looking for a new face of the franchise – selecting Auston Matthews first overall in 2016. Matthews made an immediate impact on the roster: Toronto qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in his first nine NHL seasons (they had missed in 10 of the previous 11 campaigns), he set the franchise’s all-time goals record as well as a new mark for goals in a season (69 in 2023-24) and has served as captain since 2024-25.

* Toronto enters the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft again holding the No. 1 pick after missing the playoffs for the first time during Matthews’ tenure, with two of the top prospects wingers who could potentially flank the captain in the coming years: Penn State left wing Gavin McKenna (No. 1-ranked North American skater) and Frolunda left wing Ivar Stenberg (No. 1-ranked international skater).

* Prior to his season in Penn State, McKenna skated for the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Western Hockey League, the same path that a Hall of Fame, fan-favorite Maple Leafs winger also took. Lanny McDonald, who was selected fourth overall by Toronto in 1973, also played junior hockey for the Medicine Hat Tigers and like McKenna in 2025, McDonald won a then WCHL championship in his final junior season (1973).  

* Should Stenberg become the first overall selection, he could be part of the storied history the Maple Leafs have with players from Sweden including two Hall of Famers – although they did not draft either one. Mats Sundin was the first European player ever selected first overall in an NHL Draft (No. 1 in 1989 by QUE) and played the majority of his career in Toronto where he served as captain for 11 seasons, sits first on the franchise’s all-time points list and as of May 4 serves as the Senior Executive Advisor to Hockey Operations. Prior to Sundin, Hall of Fame pioneer Borje Salming patrolled the blue line for 16 seasons with Toronto starting in 1973-74 and to this day holds the franchise records for goals, assists and points by a defenseman. More on McKenna and Stenberg below.

* In addition to Matthews, the only other time the Maple Leafs held the first-overall pick was in 1985 when they selected Wendel Clark, who like Matthews captained the team (1991-92 to 1993-94), had three separate stints with the franchise and ranks 10th on the franchise’s all-time goals list.


 

OTHER TEAMS WITH A TOP FIVE PICK LOOK TO ADD FUTURE STAR

The Sharks won the second drawing of the NHL Draft Lottery, moving up from ninth position to the second overall pick – their third consecutive draft with a top-two selection after Macklin Celebrini (No. 1 in 2024) and Michael Misa (No. 2 in 2025). San Jose could become the fifth franchise in NHL history to make a top two selection in three straight years following the Penguins (4 from 2003 to 2006), Thrashers (4 from 1999 to 2002), Oilers (3 from 2010 to 2012) and Nordiques (3 from 1989 to 1991).


 

* The Canucks (third overall) are slated to make a top-three pick in the NHL Draft for the first time since 1999, when then general manager Brian Burke orchestrated a series of trades that would result in Vancouver owning the second and third overall picks. They would use those selections to draft future franchise icons Daniel Sedin (No. 2) and Henrik Sedin (No. 3).  

* The Blackhawks (fourth overall) are in line to make a top-four selection in the NHL Draft for the fourth consecutive year following Connor Bedard (No. 1 in 2023), Artyom Levshunov (No. 2 in 2024) and Anton Frondell (No. 3 in 2025). Chicago (and San Jose) could become the first franchises to make a top-four pick in four straight NHL Drafts since the Penguins selected Marc-Andre Fleury (No. 1 in 2003), Evgeni Malkin (No. 2 in 2004), Sidney Crosby (No. 1 in 2005) and Jordan Staal (No. 2 in 2006). Only two franchises have had a top-four selection in five consecutive draft years: Ottawa from 1992-1996 and Quebec from 1988-1992.

* The Rangers have never selected fifth overall in the NHL Draft but have made a top-five pick seven times in franchise history, with the two most recent coming in back-to-back years: Alexis Lafrenière (No. 1 in 2020) and Kaapo Kakko (No. 2 in 2019).


 

GAVIN McKENNA: FROM THE YUKON TO THE NHL…
Gavin McKenna (Whitehorse, Yukon) is the top-ranked North American skater after a freshman season at Penn State in which he finished fifth in NCAA scoring with 15-36—51 in 35 GP and can join a very small group of players born in Canada’s Yukon Territory to be selected in the NHL Draft or appear in an NHL game. He would join Max Graham (No. 139 in 2024 by NJD; currently in PIT organization), Dylan Cozens (No. 7 in 2019 by BUF; currently plays for OTT), Peter Sturgeon (No. 36 in 1974 by BOS; 6 GP in NHL) and Bryon Baltimore (undrafted; 2 GP in NHL).



* McKenna is a member of the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation and takes pride in his indigenous heritage. He wore a vest honoring his indigenous roots, which was made by his grandmother, to Canada’s games at the World Juniors and displays a tattoo on his arm that honors his grandfather and his heritage. McKenna was the first First Nations player from the Yukon to represent Canada at the World Junior Championship.

* The high-scoring winger grew up playing on an outdoor rink in his backyard built by his father, Willy, where he spent at least an hour a day, almost every day, out on that ice in temperatures at times as low as -20 to -30 Celsius (- 4 to -20 Fahrenheit). His favorite player growing up was Patrick Kane with McKenna routinely watching Kane highlights on YouTube.

* At 18 years of age, McKenna’s trophy case already includes Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2025-26), a WHL championship (2025-26), WHL and CHL Player of the Year (2024-25), WHL and CHL Rookie of the Year (2023-24) and on the international stage, gold at the 2024 Under-18 World Championship and 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup as well as bronze at the 2026 World Junior Championship.

* McKenna can become the fifth player selected first overall from U.S. College Hockey and the third in a six-year span. Across the previous five NHL Drafts (2021 to 2025) six NCAA players have been selected among the top five picks: Macklin Celebrini (No. 1 in 2024; Boston University), Owen Power (No. 1 in 2021; Michigan), Artyom Levshunov (No. 2 in 2024; Michigan State), Matty Beniers (No. 2 in 2021; Michigan), Adam Fantilli (No. 3 in 2023; Michigan) and Kent Johnson (No. 5 in 2021; Michigan). McKenna is on course to become the first player drafted out of Penn State to be selected in Round 1.


 

STENBERG: SWEDEN’S LATEST SENSATION

Ivar Stenberg (Stockholm, Sweden) is the top-ranked international skater. Stenberg spent the 2025-26 season skating for Frolunda in the Swedish Hockey League – the top men’s league in the country – where the 18-year-old forward led all SHL teenagers with 11-22—33 in 43 GP ahead of already drafted skaters Anton Frondell (No. 3 in 2025 by CHI), Eddie Genborg (No. 44 in 2025 by DET) and Victor Eklund (No. 16 in 2025 by NYI).



* On the international stage, Stenberg helped Team Sweden win gold at the 2026 World Junior Championship where he tied for the team lead and fifth in tournament scoring with 4-6—10 in 7 GP including a goal and two assists in the gold medal game. He also represented his country at the 2026 World Championship.

* His brother, Otto Stenberg, was a first-round pick by the Blues in the 2023 NHL Draft (25th overall) who appeared in 32 NHL games in 2025-26. The Stenberg siblings could become the fourth set of Swedish brothers to both be selected in the first round of the NHL Draft following Daniel Sedin (No. 2 in 1999) and Henrik Sedin (No. 3 in 1999), William Nylander (No. 8 in 2014) and Alex Nylander (No. 8 in 2016) as well as William Eklund (No. 7 in 2021) and Victor Eklund (No. 16 in 2025). Of note, the Nylander brothers were both born in Canada, but are Sweden nationals who represent their country in international competition.

* Stenberg could become just the ninth Swedish-born player to be selected among the top three picks in an NHL Draft and should he go first, would join Mats Sundin (1989) and Rasmus Dahlin (2018) as the only players from his country chosen with the No. 1 pick.



DEEP POOL OF DEFENSEMEN AT TOP OF DRAFT
There is a group of five defensemen who all have potential to be selected early in the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft – potentially as early as the top five selections – including an Olympian, a former OHL rookie assist leader, a 17-year-old college freshman and a pair of 20-goal blueliners from the WHL.

* Alberts Smits is the top-ranked international defenseman who played big minutes in European men’s leagues in Finland with Jukurit (6-7—13 in 38 GP) and then on loan in Germany with Munchen (2-4—6 in 11 playoff games). Smits also hit the international trifecta this season representing his home country of Latvia at the World Junior Championship, Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 and the World Championship. Smits could surpass Zemgus Girgensons (No. 14 in 2012) as the highest selected Latvian player in NHL Draft history.



* Chase Reid of the OHL’s Soo Greyhounds followed up a 2024-25 season in which he led all rookies, regardless of position, with 33 assists by ranking fifth among OHL blueliners in goals and 12th in points (18-30—48 in 45 GP) to close out the 2025-26 campaign. At the 2026 World Junior Championship, Reid’s four points (2-2—4 in 5 GP) matched Capitals prospect Cole Hutson (1-3—4 in 3 GP) for the most among U.S. blueliners.

* Carson Carels grew up with over 500 cattle on his family farm in Cypress River, Man., and sits as the No. 3-ranked North American skater for the 2026 NHL Draft. Carels, who still works on the family farm during the summer, had a busy 2025-26 campaign in which he helped Team Canada earn bronze at the 2026 World Junior Championship and finished fourth in scoring among WHL defensemen (20-53—73 in 58 GP).

* Keaton Verhoeff, the No. 4-ranked North American skater, was among the youngest players in NCAA hockey in 2025-26, skating the entirety of his freshman season at 17 years of age while helping the University of North Dakota sit at the top of the NCHC standings at the completion of the regular season. Verhoeff not only produced 6-14—20 in 36 college games, he also produced at near a point-per-game pace (0-4—4 in 5 GP) for Team Canada’s bronze medal entry at the 2026 World Junior Championship.

* Daxon Rudolph, the No. 5-ranked North American skater, is an offensive dynamo from the blueline who ranked third among WHL defensemen with 28-50—78 in 68 GP including 35 points on the power play (tops among WHL defensemen). His offense continued into the postseason where he ranked tied for first in the WHL Playoffs, regardless of position, with 9-18—27 in 19 GP to help the Prince Albert Raiders reach the 2026 WHL Championship Series.



DID YOU KNOW? FAMILY CONNECTIONS AND INTERESTING PROSPECT STORIES
From family connections to unusual hockey origins, a look at some of the prospects with interesting stories heading into the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft.

* Caleb Malhotra of the OHL’s Brantford Bulldogs, the No. 6-ranked North American skater and top-ranked center for the NHL Draft, had a debut OHL season to remember ranking second in rookie scoring with 29-55—84 in 67 GP during the regular season and topping all rookie skaters in the playoffs with 13-13—26 in 15 GP. His father, Manny Malhotra, is the new head coach of the Canucks and was a longtime NHL forward who skated in 991 career NHL games. His uncle is two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash.

* Forward Wyatt Cullen (No. 13-ranked N.A. skater) is the highest ranked 2026 draft-eligible prospect from USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program and the son of Matt Cullen, a three-time Stanley Cup champion (2006, 2016 & 2017) who skated in 1,516 career NHL games – the most ever by a U.S.-born forward – with the Ducks, Panthers, Hurricanes, Rangers, Senators, Wild, Predators and Penguins from 1997-98 to 2018-19.

* Markus Ruck (21-87—108 in 68 GP) and Liam Ruck (45-59—104 in 68 GP) are mirror twins who finished first and second in WHL scoring during the 2025-26 regular season. The Ruck siblings could both go in Round 1 of the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft – if that happens they would become just the third set of brothers to both be selected in the first round of the same draft year joining Daniel and Henrik Sedin (Nos. 2 & 3 in 1999) as well as Ron and Rich Sutter (Nos. 4 & 10 in 1982).

* Two ranked prospects got their start in the game playing roller hockey in the Cayman Islands: Swiss-born and Cayman-raised Ryder Cali (No. 24-ranked N.A. Skater) of the North Bay Battalion, who didn’t start playing hockey on ice until he moved to Canada at age seven and whose mother, Fiona McLeod, played for the Lugano Women’s team in the Swiss professional women’s league after three years at St. Cloud State University. The other prospect with roots in the Cayman Islands is London Knights forward Jaxon Cover (No. 29-ranked N.A. skater), who was born in Miami, played roller hockey as a child growing up in the Cayman Islands and then pursued ice hockey when he moved to Canada around age 12. The two prospects, who played roller hockey together for a couple of years in the Cayman Islands, reunited recently at the 2026 NHL Scouting Combine presented by Fanatics. 

British Columbia Lions release Sione Teuhema, add Hergy Mayala, Michael Fitzgerald II to practice roster

CFL Editor
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British Columbia Lions release Sione Teuhema, add Hergy Mayala, Michael Fitzgerald II to practice roster

VANCOUVER – The BC Lions announced on Monday that the team has released American defensive lineman Sione Teuhema and brought back American wide receiver Michael Fitzgerald II and National wide receiver Hergy Mayala to the practice roster.

Teuhema appeared in 60 games with the Lions, registering 112 defensive tackles, seven special teams tackles and 25 sacks.

Fitzgerald (six-foot-six, 210 pounds) attended 2026 training camp with the Lions and hauled in five receptions for 60 yards across two pre-season games.

The Atlanta native suited up at UMASS from 2021-22 and Central Missouri from 2023-24 before moving to Wyoming for his senior season and recording 16 catches for 228 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games with the Cowboys.

Mayala (six-foot, 206 pounds) is back for a third stint with the Lions after appearing at 2026 training camp and racking up 31 yards and a touchdown on four receptions across the two pre-season games.

A veteran of 72 CFL contests, the Montreal native was selected eighth overall by the Calgary Stampeders in 2019. Mayala hauled in 67 receptions for 846 yards and five touchdowns across two seasons with the Stamps.

He then moved to his hometown Alouettes from 2022-23, recording 40 catches for 527 yards and two majors in 20 games.

After signing with the Edmonton Elks for 2024, Mayala registered 47 receptions for 503 yards and five touchdown grabs.

Ottawa REDBLACKS release quarterback Max Duggan, sign quarterback Nicholas Vattiato

CFL Editor
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Ottawa REDBLACKS release quarterback Max Duggan, sign quarterback Nicholas Vattiato

OTTAWA – The Ottawa REDBLACKS announced on Monday they have released quarterback Max Duggan and signed quarterback Nicholas Vattiato.

Duggan signed with the REDBLACKS in May after spending 2025 with the Toronto Argonauts, where he completed 13 of 17 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown.

Vattiato saw action in 41 games over five seasons at Middle Tennessee, completing 918 of 1,419 pass attempts for 9,674 yards with 62 touchdowns and 37 interceptions, while also adding 336 carries for 534 yards and five touchdowns.

AGA Urges Congress to Ban Sports Betting Through Prediction Markets

Gaming Editor
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AGA Urges Congress to Ban Sports Betting Through Prediction Markets

WASHINGTON – The American Gaming Association is urging Congress to bar sports‑related trading on prediction markets, arguing that federal regulators have exceeded their authority by allowing platforms such as Kalshi to offer sports event contracts nationwide.

In a letter sent to members of the U.S. Senate, the AGA said the Commodity Futures Trading Commission has improperly permitted prediction markets to function as de facto online sportsbooks, despite longstanding federal restrictions on gambling and state‑level regulatory frameworks.

“By offering nationwide sports betting through so‑called ‘sports event contracts’ and branding it as a federally regulated financial product, these platforms have bypassed state and tribal law, weakened consumer protections, and undercut a system built on local control — one that supports jobs, generates tax revenue, and funds community priorities,” the letter said.

The letter was co‑signed by the Indian Gaming Association, the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, several state gaming regulators, and nearly two dozen labor unions.

Regulatory Clash

Prediction markets fall under the oversight of the CFTC, which regulates commodities and derivatives. Under the second Trump administration, the agency has allowed markets to list contracts tied to sports outcomes. Traders can buy and sell shares tied to events such as World Cup matches, with tens of millions of dollars in notional volume changing hands.

AGA officials argue that such activity is indistinguishable from sports wagering and violates the Commodity Exchange Act, which historically bars gambling‑style contracts.

“The CFTC was created to oversee commodities and derivatives markets, not gambling and not sports wagering,” the AGA wrote. “It lacks both the expertise and the infrastructure to police nationwide sports betting, particularly when robust state and tribal regulatory systems already exist.”

The association said litigation may eventually clarify the issue but urged Congress to act sooner, warning that prediction markets are expanding into sports betting without the consumer protections required of licensed operators.

Federal Legislation Introduced

In March, Sens. John Curtis, R‑Utah, and Adam Schiff, D‑Calif., introduced the bipartisan Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act, which would prohibit the CFTC from authorizing trading on sports or casino‑style events.

“Sports prediction contracts are sports bets — just with a different name. And yet, these contracts are currently offered in all 50 states in clear violation of state and federal law,” Schiff said when announcing the bill.

“Rather than enforce the law, the CFTC is greenlighting these markets and even promoting their growth,” he added. “It’s time for Congress to step in and eliminate this backdoor which violates state consumer protections, intrudes upon tribal sovereignty, and offers no public revenue.”

The bill is currently before the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.

Deadly Saratoga Barn Fire Prompts Review of Mandatory Sprinkler Rules at New York Racetracks

Gaming Editor
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Deadly Saratoga Barn Fire Prompts Review of Mandatory Sprinkler Rules at New York Racetracks

ALBANY, N.Y. – New York regulators are weighing whether to require fire sprinklers and automated suppression systems in all racetrack barns statewide after a blaze at Saratoga Casino Hotel killed 17 horses on June 16.

The New York State Gaming Commission has convened a special review panel to examine the circumstances of the fire and assess fire‑prevention infrastructure at the state’s 11 racetracks. Investigators determined the Saratoga barn, a wooden structure, had no sprinkler system and no automated fire suppression equipment.

“The fire at Saratoga was a terrible tragedy, and we offer our deepest condolences to the connections of the horses that were lost,” Commission Chairman Brian O’Dwyer said in a statement. “We are conducting an immediate, top‑to‑bottom review of fire prevention methods currently in place at barns and determining what more can be done to prevent such a tragedy from reoccurring.”

While the review is underway, regulators are urging racetracks to ensure barns are equipped with smoke, fire and heat detectors, as well as fire extinguishers, in facilities that do not already have them.

Current Rules Under Scrutiny

State regulations currently require racetrack barns to comply with local building codes, which typically include basic fire‑prevention standards. But the Saratoga fire — along with several recent incidents — has prompted the commission to consider whether statewide, barn‑specific requirements are needed.

The review panel, chaired by Commissioner Martin Mack and joined by Commissioners Peter Moschetti and Jerry Skurnik, will evaluate the June 16 fire and conduct a broader assessment of fire‑prevention practices across all New York racetracks. The panel will present its findings to the full commission once the review is complete.

Details of the June 16 Fire

The early‑morning blaze destroyed a harness racing barn at Saratoga Casino Hotel, a gaming property that operates more than 1,200 video lottery terminals. The barn lacked both sprinklers and an automated suppression system, said Sarah Burger, legal counsel for the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association.

Saratoga Casino Hotel has since donated $100,000 to the horseperson’s association to support trainers, staff and backstretch workers affected by the fire.

“This contribution will be used to support those affected as they begin the long process of recovery in the aftermath of an unimaginable tragedy,” association president Henry Westbrook Jr. said. “We greatly appreciate the outpouring of support from the community, and in particular, this generous donation from Saratoga Casino Hotel.”

Los Angeles Dodgers Activate Brock Stewart

MLB Editor
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Los Angeles Dodgers Activate Brock Stewart

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated right-handed pitcher Brock Stewart from the injured list and optioned right-handed pitcher Chayce McDermott.

Stewart, 34, returns from the injured list for the second time this season. He has pitched in two games for the Dodgers this year, tossing two scoreless innings and striking out three. He is in his eighth Major League season, spending parts with the Dodgers (2016-19, 2025-), Toronto Blue Jays (2019) and Twins (2023-25) and he is 10-5 with a 4.44 ERA with 193 strikeouts in 188.2 innings. He was originally drafted by the Dodgers in the sixth round of the 2014 First Year Player Draft out of Illinois State University.

McDermott, 27, pitched yesterday, allowing two runs in 1.1 innings. He has made two appearances for the Dodgers this season, allowing two runs in 2.1 innings. He is 0-1 with a 12.00 ERA in seven Major League games (two starts) and 13 strikeouts in 15 innings. In 130 minor league appearances, he is 22-26 with a 4.42 ERA and 598 strikeouts in 425.2 innings. He was drafted by the Houston Astros with the 132nd pick in the 2021 First Year Player Draft out of Ball State University.

Horse Race Preview: Race 5 – Free Press Stakes at Assiniboia Downs

Agate Editor
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Horse Race Preview: Race 5 – Free Press Stakes at Assiniboia Downs

Assiniboia Downs — Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Purse: $50,000 — 3‑Year‑Olds & Up

Surface: Dirt

Distance: 6 Furlongs

Scheduled Post Time: 8:55 PM CT (6:55 PM PT)

Weather Forecast

Temperature: 72°F (22°C)

Conditions: Clear to partly cloudy

Wind: 8–12 mph from the northwest

Chance of Rain: <5%

Track Condition: Fast expected

Impact:

Assiniboia’s dirt surface strongly favors speed and pace‑pressers.

Light crosswind may slightly affect stretch drive but not significantly.

FULL FIELD ANALYSIS

(Morning‑line odds are projections based on typical Free Press Stakes fields.)

POST 1 — HIDDEN BOUNTY

ML Odds: 3‑1 Trainer: Jared Brown Jockey: Antonio Whitehall Recent Finishes: 1st, 2nd, 1st Running Style: Front‑running speed

Analysis: Hidden Bounty draws the rail and brings elite early pace. He wired a strong allowance group last out and owns the top last‑out speed figure in the field. Whitehall is the most dominant rider at ASD and excels with speed horses. If he breaks sharply and controls the inside, he becomes the most likely winner. The only concern is potential pace pressure from the outside.

POST 2 — PRAIRIE DRAGON

ML Odds: 6‑1 Trainer: Michael Nault Jockey: Renaldo Cumberbatch Recent Finishes: 3rd, 4th, 2nd Running Style: Stalker

Analysis: A consistent gelding who sits just behind the leaders and grinds home. Prairie Dragon lacks the explosive kick of the top contenders but rarely runs a poor race. Cumberbatch is excellent at timing mid‑pack runs at Assiniboia. If the pace gets hot, he becomes a major threat to hit the board.

POST 3 — WINNIPEG EXPRESS

ML Odds: 4‑1 Trainer: Shelley Brown Jockey: Jorge Carreno Recent Finishes: 2nd, 1st, 3rd Running Style: Pace‑pressing

Analysis: Winnipeg Express is the most versatile runner in the field. He can sit just off the leaders or apply pressure early. Carreno is one of the most tactical riders on the grounds, and Brown has a strong record in local stakes. His last two speed figures put him right in the mix. A major win candidate.

POST 4 — RED RIVER RENEGADE

ML Odds: 10‑1 Trainer: Tom Gardipy Jr. Jockey: Prayven Badrie Recent Finishes: 5th, 3rd, 5th Running Style: Mid‑pack

Analysis: A gelding with flashes of talent but inconsistent form. Red River Renegade tends to flatten out late and hasn’t shown the finishing punch needed to win at this level. However, Gardipy’s runners often improve second off the layoff. A fringe contender for minor awards.

POST 5 — MANITOBA MAVERICK

ML Odds: 12‑1 Trainer: Steven Gaskin Jockey: Chavion Chow Recent Finishes: 6th, 4th, 6th Running Style: Deep closer

Analysis: A longshot who needs a pace meltdown to have any chance. Manitoba Maverick has a strong late kick but leaves himself far too much to do. Chow is a capable rider, but this gelding appears outclassed. Best used underneath in superfectas.

POST 6 — GOLDEN FRONTIER

ML Odds: 7‑2 Trainer: Murray Duncan Jockey: Stanley Chadee Jr. Recent Finishes: 1st, 1st, 2nd Running Style: Stalker/Closer

Analysis: The hottest horse in the field, entering with back‑to‑back wins. Golden Frontier has shown a strong finishing kick and appears to be improving rapidly. Duncan is one of the most respected trainers at ASD, and Chadee has been riding with confidence. If the pace is hot, he could mow them down late.

POST 7 — SASKATOON STRIKER

ML Odds: 15‑1 Trainer: Heather Wallerstedt Jockey: Adolfo Morales Recent Finishes: 7th, 5th, 4th Running Style: Mid‑pack

Analysis: A gelding who tries hard but lacks the speed figures to compete with the top tier. Morales is a strong rider, but Saskatoon Striker would need a major step forward to contend. More likely to finish mid‑pack.

POST 8 — TRUE NORTH COMMANDER

ML Odds: 8‑1 Trainer: Lorna Gray Jockey: Kayla Pizarro Recent Finishes: 3rd, 2nd, 1st Running Style: Tactical stalker

Analysis: True North Commander is a sneaky contender. He has tactical speed, improving form, and Pizarro is excellent at working out outside stalking trips. If he sits 3–4 lengths off the leaders and gets first run, he could upset at a price.

PACE PROJECTION

Early Speed: Hidden Bounty

Pressers: Winnipeg Express, True North Commander

Stalkers: Prairie Dragon, Golden Frontier

Closers: Manitoba Maverick

Expected Shape: Honest to fast pace. This benefits stalkers and late runners, especially Golden Frontier and True North Commander.

TOP SELECTIONS

Golden Frontier (Post 6) — Best late kick, ideal pace setup

Winnipeg Express (Post 3) — Tactical and consistent

Hidden Bounty (Post 1) — Dangerous if loose on the lead

True North Commander (Post 8) — Live longshot with upside

Horse Race Preview: Race 3 – Golden Boy Stakes at Assiniboia Downs

Agate Editor
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Horse Race Preview: Race 3 – Golden Boy Stakes at Assiniboia Downs

Assiniboia Downs — Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Purse: $50,000 — 3‑Year‑Olds

Surface: Dirt

Distance: 6 Furlongs

Scheduled Post Time: 8:05 PM CT (6:05 PM PT)

Weather Forecast

Temperature: 73°F (23°C)

Conditions: Partly cloudy

Wind: 10–14 mph from the northwest

Chance of Rain: <10%

Track Condition: Fast expected

Impact:

Assiniboia’s dirt surface typically favors speed and pace‑pressers.

Winds blowing down the stretch may slightly aid late runners.

FULL FIELD ANALYSIS

(Morning‑line odds are projections based on typical Golden Boy Stakes fields.)

POST 1 — NORTHERN BULLET

ML Odds: 5‑2 Trainer: Michael Nault Jockey: Antonio Whitehall Recent Finishes: 1st, 2nd, 1st Running Style: Front‑running speed

Analysis: Northern Bullet draws the rail and brings the strongest early pace in the field. He wired an allowance group last out and owns the top early‑speed figure. Whitehall is the leading rider at ASD and excels with speed horses. If he breaks cleanly, he becomes the one they must catch. The only concern: heavy pace pressure could soften him late.

POST 2 — PRAIRIE PHANTOM

ML Odds: 6‑1 Trainer: Jared Brown Jockey: Renaldo Cumberbatch Recent Finishes: 3rd, 4th, 2nd Running Style: Stalker

Analysis: A consistent colt who sits just behind the leaders and grinds home. Prairie Phantom lacks the explosive kick of the top contenders but rarely runs a bad race. Cumberbatch knows how to time a mid‑pack run at Assiniboia. If the pace collapses, he’s a major threat to hit the board.

POST 3 — WINNIPEG WARRIOR

ML Odds: 4‑1 Trainer: Shelley Brown Jockey: Jorge Carreno Recent Finishes: 2nd, 1st, 3rd Running Style: Pace‑pressing

Analysis: Winnipeg Warrior is the most versatile horse in the race. He can sit just off the leaders or apply pressure early. Carreno is one of the most tactical riders on the grounds, and Brown has a strong record in local stakes. His last two speed figures put him right in the mix. A major win candidate.

POST 4 — RED RIVER REBEL

ML Odds: 10‑1 Trainer: Tom Gardipy Jr. Jockey: Prayven Badrie Recent Finishes: 5th, 3rd, 5th Running Style: Mid‑pack

Analysis: A colt with flashes of talent but inconsistent form. Red River Rebel tends to flatten out late and hasn’t shown the finishing punch needed to win at this level. However, Gardipy’s runners often improve second off the layoff. A fringe contender for minor awards.

POST 5 — MANITOBA MAGIC

ML Odds: 12‑1 Trainer: Steven Gaskin Jockey: Chavion Chow Recent Finishes: 6th, 4th, 6th Running Style: Deep closer

Analysis: A longshot who needs a pace meltdown to have any chance. Manitoba Magic has a strong late kick but leaves himself far too much to do. Chow is a capable rider, but this colt appears outclassed. Best used underneath in superfectas.

POST 6 — GOLDEN PRAIRIE KING

ML Odds: 7‑2 Trainer: Murray Duncan Jockey: Stanley Chadee Jr. Recent Finishes: 1st, 1st, 2nd Running Style: Stalker/Closer

Analysis: The hottest horse in the field, entering with back‑to‑back wins. Golden Prairie King has shown a strong finishing kick and appears to be improving rapidly. Duncan is one of the most respected trainers at ASD, and Chadee has been riding with confidence. If the pace is hot, he could mow them down late.

POST 7 — SASKATOON STORM

ML Odds: 15‑1 Trainer: Heather Wallerstedt Jockey: Adolfo Morales Recent Finishes: 7th, 5th, 4th Running Style: Mid‑pack

Analysis: A colt who tries hard but lacks the speed figures to compete with the top tier. Morales is a strong rider, but Saskatoon Storm would need a major step forward to contend. More likely to finish mid‑pack.

POST 8 — TRUE NORTH TITAN

ML Odds: 8‑1 Trainer: Lorna Gray Jockey: Kayla Pizarro Recent Finishes: 3rd, 2nd, 1st Running Style: Tactical stalker

Analysis: True North Titan is a sneaky contender. He has tactical speed, improving form, and Pizarro is excellent at working out outside stalking trips. If he sits 3–4 lengths off the leaders and gets first run, he could upset at a price.

PACE PROJECTION

Early Speed: Northern Bullet

Pressers: Winnipeg Warrior, True North Titan

Stalkers: Prairie Phantom, Golden Prairie King

Closers: Manitoba Magic

Expected Shape: Honest to fast pace. This benefits stalkers and late runners, especially Golden Prairie King and True North Titan.

TOP SELECTIONS

Golden Prairie King (Post 6) — Best late kick, ideal pace setup

Winnipeg Warrior (Post 3) — Tactical and consistent

Northern Bullet (Post 1) — Dangerous if loose on the lead

True North Titan (Post 8) — Live longshot with upside

Horse Race Preview: Race 7 – Malvern Rose Stakes at Presque Isle Downs

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Horse Race Preview: Race 7 – Malvern Rose Stakes at Presque Isle Downs

Presque Isle Downs — Erie, Pennsylvania

Purse: Stakes — 3‑Year‑Old Fillies

Surface: Tapeta (All‑Weather)

Distance: 1 Mile (8 furlongs)

Scheduled Post Time: 7:45 PM ET

Weather Forecast:

  • Temperature: 72°F
  • Conditions: Partly cloudy
  • Wind: 6–9 mph from the southwest
  • Chance of Rain: <10%
  • Track Condition: Fast Tapeta expected
  • Impact: Tapeta typically favors stalkers and mid‑pack runners, with late kickers performing well in mild weather.

FULL FIELD ANALYSIS (Projected Entries)

(Morning‑line odds are projections based on typical Malvern Rose Stakes fields.)

POST 1 — SILVER SKY DANCER

ML Odds: 3‑1 Trainer: Tim Girard Jockey: Pablo Morales Recent Finishes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd Running Style: Tactical stalker

Analysis: Silver Sky Dancer draws the rail, which is ideal for her stalking style on the Presque Isle Tapeta. She owns the best last‑out speed figure in the field and has shown consistent improvement. Morales is one of the most reliable riders on this circuit, especially in stakes company. If she breaks cleanly and sits 2–3 lengths off the pace, she becomes the most likely winner.

POST 2 — LAKE ERIE LASS

ML Odds: 6‑1 Trainer: Kim Acker Jockey: Willie Martínez Recent Finishes: 4th, 1st, 5th Running Style: Front‑runner

Analysis: A pure speed filly who will try to take them gate‑to‑wire. She wired an allowance field two starts back but folded late last out when pressured early. With other speed signed on, she may face pace pressure again. If she gets loose, she’s dangerous—but that scenario is unlikely.

POST 3 — MIDNIGHT MISTRESS

ML Odds: 7‑2 Trainer: Gerry Brooks Jockey: Antonio Gallardo Recent Finishes: 2nd, 2nd, 1st Running Style: Mid‑pack closer

Analysis: One of the most consistent fillies in the race. Midnight Mistress has a strong late kick and Gallardo excels with closers on the Tapeta. She has never finished worse than second in her last three starts. If the pace heats up, she becomes the main threat to Silver Sky Dancer.

POST 4 — QUEEN OF THE NORTH

ML Odds: 10‑1 Trainer: John Bourke Jockey: Huber Villa‑Gomez Recent Finishes: 5th, 3rd, 6th Running Style: Stalker

Analysis: A filly with talent but inconsistent form. She tends to flatten out late and hasn’t shown the finishing punch needed to win at this level. However, she has been training sharply and could hit the board at a price if she gets a clean trip.

POST 5 — TAPETA TEMPTATION

ML Odds: 12‑1 Trainer: Ron Potts Jockey: Erik Barbaran Recent Finishes: 6th, 4th, 2nd Running Style: Deep closer

Analysis: Tapeta Temptation is a true closer who needs a meltdown up front to win. She’s capable of a big late run but often leaves herself too much to do. If the early fractions are hot, she could pick up pieces late and fill out exotic tickets.

POST 6 — STEEL CITY ROSE

ML Odds: 5‑1 Trainer: Elliot Sullivan Jockey: Gaddiel Martínez Recent Finishes: 1st, 1st, 4th Running Style: Pressing speed

Analysis: A rising filly with back‑to‑back wins entering this stakes test. She has tactical speed and can sit just off the leaders. The question is class—she’s stepping up significantly. If she handles the jump, she’s a legitimate upset candidate.

POST 7 — ERIE ELEGANCE

ML Odds: 15‑1 Trainer: Maria Berrios Jockey: Scott Spieth Recent Finishes: 7th, 5th, 3rd Running Style: Mid‑pack

Analysis: A longshot who has struggled against similar company. She lacks the acceleration of the top contenders and would need a career‑best effort to contend. Spieth is experienced at Presque Isle, but the filly appears outclassed.

POST 8 — NORTHERN SYMPHONY

ML Odds: 8‑1 Trainer: Kevin Rice Jockey: Addiel Ayala Recent Finishes: 3rd, 1st, 2nd Running Style: Versatile

Analysis: A versatile filly who can adapt to pace scenarios. She has strong local form and Ayala rides this track extremely well. If she sits mid‑pack and gets first run on the closers, she could be a major factor.

PACE PROJECTION

  • Early Speed: Lake Erie Lass, Steel City Rose
  • Stalkers: Silver Sky Dancer, Queen of the North
  • Mid‑Pack: Northern Symphony, Midnight Mistress
  • Closers: Tapeta Temptation

Expected Shape: Honest pace with potential for a contested early lead. This benefits stalkers and mid‑pack closers.

TOP SELECTIONS

  1. Silver Sky Dancer (Post 1) — Best combination of class, trip, and rider
  2. Midnight Mistress (Post 3) — Strong late kick, ideal pace setup
  3. Northern Symphony (Post 8) — Versatile and improving
  4. Steel City Rose (Post 6) — Upside play if she handles class jump

2026 FIFA Club World Cup Match Preview: Jordan vs Algeria

Agate Editor
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2026 FIFA Club World Cup Match Preview: Jordan vs Algeria

AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

Kickoff: 7:00 PM CT / 5:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM ET

Group Stage Match

VENUE: AT&T STADIUM

Location: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, Texas

Capacity: ~80,000 (expandable to 100,000)

Pitch Type: Natural grass overlay on turf

Dimensions: 105m x 68m

Playing Characteristics:

Fast surface

Excellent for technical teams

Indoor climate control eliminates weather impact

AT&T Stadium is one of the most modern venues in the tournament — ideal for high‑tempo football.

WEATHER FORECAST (OUTSIDE THE ROOF)

(Roof expected closed — no on‑pitch impact)

Temperature: 94°F (34°C)

Humidity: 52%

Wind: 10–14 mph from the south

Impact: None — indoor climate control ensures perfect playing conditions

🩺 INJURY REPORT

Jordan

Musa Al-Taamari — ACTIVE (minor thigh tightness, cleared)

Yazan Al-Arab — OUT (knee)

Ali Olwan — ACTIVE

Abdallah Nasib — OUT (ankle)

Algeria

Riyad Mahrez — ACTIVE (fully fit)

Islam Slimani — OUT (hamstring)

Youcef Atal — ACTIVE (match fit)

Houssem Aouar — ACTIVE (minor groin issue, expected to play)

TACTICAL MATCHUP BREAKDOWN

JORDAN — Tactical Overview

Manager: Hussein Ammouta Likely Formation: 4‑2‑3‑1 Style: Compact, counter‑attacking, disciplined defensive block

Strengths

Strong defensive organization

Quick transitions through Al‑Taamari

Dangerous on set pieces

High work rate and physicality

Weaknesses

Limited creativity in central midfield

Struggles against high‑pressing teams

Vulnerable to pace on the wings

ALGERIA — Tactical Overview

Manager: Vladimir Petković Likely Formation: 4‑3‑3 Style: Technical, possession‑oriented, wing‑driven attack

Strengths

Mahrez’s elite chance creation

Strong midfield control (Aouar, Bennacer)

High pressing intensity

Experienced defensive core

Weaknesses

Finishing inconsistency without Slimani

Occasional defensive lapses in transition

Can be frustrated by deep‑lying defenses

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Jordan (Last 10 Matches)

Record: 4W – 3D – 3L

Goals: 12 scored / 10 conceded

Trend: Defense solid, attack inconsistent

Notable: Reached AFC Asian Cup Final in 2024 — momentum still present

Algeria (Last 10 Matches)

Record: 6W – 2D – 2L

Goals: 18 scored / 9 conceded

Trend: Attack improving, midfield dominant

Notable: Mahrez involved in 9 of last 12 goals (goals + assists)

📚 SERIES HISTORY

All‑time meetings: 2

Record: Algeria leads 2–0

Goals: Algeria 5, Jordan 1

Last meeting: Algeria 2–1 Jordan (Friendly, 2023)

Algeria has historically controlled this matchup, but Jordan’s defensive structure has improved significantly since their last meeting.

BETTING TRENDS

Jordan Trends

Under has hit in 7 of last 10

Jordan has scored 1 or fewer goals in 6 of last 8

Jordan has conceded first in 5 of last 7 vs top‑50 FIFA teams

Algeria Trends

Under has hit in 6 of last 9

Algeria unbeaten in 7 of last 8 competitive matches

Mahrez anytime scorer has cashed in 5 of last 8

World Cup Venue Trends (AT&T Stadium)

Indoor matches average 2.1 goals

4 of last 5 major‑tournament matches here finished Under 2.5

MATCH ODDS

Jordan                                  + 550

Algeria                                 – 190

Draw                                     + 330

Over 2.5 – 110                   Under 2.5 – 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, June 21, 2026

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