Saturday, April 11, 2026
5-Hour Energy
Home Blog Page 2920

NHL Preview: Seattle Kraken (34-21-6) at Columbus Blue Jackets (20-35-6)

NHL Editor
-
0
NHL Preview: Seattle Kraken (34-21-6) at Columbus Blue Jackets (20-35-6)

SEATTLE KRAKEN NOTES:

LAST GAME
Seattle 5 at Detroit 4 (OT)
Goals: McCann (2), Bjorkstrand (2), Schwartz
Goalie: Jones (9/12), Grubauer (16/17)
PP: 1/5 PK: 3/3 Shots: Seattle 37 – St. Louis 29

CURRENT INJURIES – (Man Games Lost: 160)
Joonas Donskoi (upper body; IR) – 61 games – no timeline for return
Andre Burakovsky (lower body) – 11 games – week-to-week

TRANSACTIONS IN PAST 7 DAYS
Feb. 22, 2023: Recalled F Jesper Froden from Coachella Valley (AHL)
Feb. 24, 2023: Reassigned G Chris Driedger to Coachella Valley (AHL)

UPCOMING GAMES
Sunday, March 5: Seattle at Colorado, 6 p.m. PT
Tuesday, March 7: Anaheim at Seattle, 7 p.m. PT
Thursday, March 9: Ottawa at Seattle, 7 p.m. PT
Saturday, March 11: Dallas at Seattle, 7 p.m. PT
Monday, March 13: Dallas at Seattle, 7 p.m. PT

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
• Tonight’s matchup is the second of two games the Kraken will play against the Blue Jackets this season and the first time the teams are playing in Columbus this year.
• Yesterday’s game against the Red Wings and tonight’s game against the Blue Jackets is the sixth of eight back-to-back sets the team will play this season and the fourth of which where both games are played on the road. Seattle has a 3-2-0 record in the second game of back-to-back sets this season.
• A win or an overtime loss would give the Kraken points in four consecutive games against Columbus. The team is 1-0-2 all-time against the Blue Jackets. The Blue Jackets are one of four teams that the Kraken have never lost to in regulation, the others being the Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings and Ottawa Senators.
• A win tonight would also give the Kraken their fifth sweep of the season after having previously swept the Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins. Seattle topped Columbus 3-1 in the two teams’ first meeting of the season on Jan. 28.
• Vince Dunn, who has already set a career high with 45 points (11 goals, 34 assists) this season, was ranked in the top 15 among all NHL defensemen in goals (tied ninth), assists (tied 13th), points (tied ninth), even-strength goals (11, third) and even-strength points (34, tied fourth) as of 7:50 p.m. PT on March 2.
• As of 7:50 p.m. PT on March 2, Adam Larsson and the Rangers’ Jacob Trouba were the only two players to have at least 160 hits and 120 blocks this season.
• The Kraken have played 14 games this season in which they have had at least five different goal scorers.
• Since the start of the New Year, the Kraken are tied for third the league in wins (16) and ranked fourth in points (34). The team’s 96 goals rank second in the league since Jan. 1 as of 7:55 p.m. PT on March 2.
• Despite only playing in 60 games this season, the Kraken are the first team to have scored at least eight goals in a game four different times since the Pittsburgh Penguins also had four eight-goal games in 2011-12.

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS NOTES:

Mar. 3, 2023 Game No. 62 (20-35-6, 46 pts.)
vs. Seattle Kraken (34-21-6, 74 pts.), Nationwide Arena Home Game No. 34 (13-18-2, 28 pts.)
The Blue Jackets Press Box website, which includes game notes, stats, releases and video/audio clips as well as the 2022-23 Media Guide can be accessed at bluejackets.com/pressbox. Follow @BlueJacketsPR on Twitter for comprehensive information and updates on the team.

THE LAST GAME: FEB. 28, 2023 – CBJ 5 at BUF 3
CBJ Goal Scorers: PP – Johnson (13), Robinson (6), Robinson (7), Jenner (19), EN – Robinson (8)
BUF Goal Scorers: Thompson (41), Quinn (11), PP – Peterka (8)
Goalies: CBJ – Merzlikins (38/41; 60:00); BUF – Anderson (31/35; 59:41)
CBJ PP: 1/1; PK: 2/3 | Shots: CBJ: 36 / BUF: 41
3 Stars: 1. Robinson, CBJ; 2. Quinn, BUF; 3. Jenner, CBJ
Noteworthy: CBJ collected a point in 3rd-straight game (2-0-1)… CBJ led 4-1 heading into the 3rd period, but BUF scored 2 goals in the 3rd to cut CBJ’s lead to 4-3… Robinson notched his 1st career NHL hat trick with 3 goals, including final goal with 35 seconds remaining… Jenner registered his 9th multi-point game of the campaign (1-1-2), giving him 3 multi-point games in his last 5 contests (3-3-6)… Blankenburg tallied his 2nd multi-assist game of the season (0-2-2)… Laine tallied his 22nd assist of the campaign and now has 1-3-4 in his past 3 outings.. Merzlikins notched his 4th career assist (MR: 3/16/22 at OTT).

OhioHEALTH INJURY REPORT
Danforth (torn labrum); Placed on Injured Reserve (Oct. 25); 6 months (55 games)
Werenski (torn labrum); Placed on Injured Reserve (retro to Nov. 10); rest of regular season (48 games)
Bean (shoulder); Placed on IR (retro to Nov. 15); out indefinitely (46 games)
TOTAL MAN GAMES LOST: 418

RECENT TRANSACTIONS
Mar. 2 Acquired Hutchinson and a 7th-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft from Vegas in exchange for Quick
Mar. 2 Acquired Gillies from Arizona in exchange for Voracek and a 6th-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft and assigned Gillies to Cleveland (AHL)
Mar. 1 Loaned Greaves to Cleveland (AHL)
Mar. 1 Acquired Quick, a conditional 1st-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft and a 3rd-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft from Los Angeles in exchange for Gavrikov and Korpisalo
Feb. 28 Acquired a 5th-round pick in 2023 NHL Draft from Minnesota in exchange for Nyquist
Feb. 28 Recalled Greaves from Cleveland (AHL) and assigned Sweezey to Cleveland
Feb. 27 Activated Chinakhov and Meyer off Injured Reserve and loaned to Cleveland (AHL)
Feb. 25 Recalled Sweezey from Cleveland (AHL)

TODAY’S GAME BROADCAST INFO
7:00pm ET | Bally Sports Ohio | 97.1 The Fan

AGAINST THE KRAKEN
2022-23 Series: 0-1-0 (0-0-0 vs. SEA)
2021-22 Series: 2-0-0 (1-0-0 vs. SEA)
All-Time Series: 2-1-0 (1-0-0 vs. SEA)
Last 10 (Overall | Home): 2-1-0 | 1-0-0
All-Time GF/GA: 8/8
All-Time SF/SA: 78/83
All-Time PP: 0-of-4
All-Time PK: 3-of-4

THE LAST GAME VS. SEA: JAN. 28, 2023 – CBJ 1 at SEA 3
CBJ Goal Scorers: Johnson (10)
SEA Goal Scorers: Geekie (5), Wennberg (10). Tolvanen (10)
Goalies: CBJ – Merzlikins (28/31; 56:55); SEA – Grubauer (24/25; 60:00)
CBJ PP: 0/2; PK: 2/2 | Shots: CBJ: 25 / SEA: 31
3 Stars: 1. Wennberg, SEA; 2. Geekie, SEA; 3. Grubauer, SEA
Noteworthy: CBJ lost 2nd consecutive game… CBJ fell to SEA for 1st time in franchise history… CBJ scored lone goal 18:58 into the 2nd period to cut SEA’s lead to 2-1, but SEA scored 3rd goal 5:39 into 3rd period… Johnson scored a goal to give him 2-3-5 in the last 5 games… Roslovic tallied an assist and now has 1-7-8 in his last 11 contests … Jenner played in his 628th career NHL game, surpassing Atkinson (627) for the 2nd-most games played in CBJ history… Healy worked 2,000th career pro game.

SEASON SERIES LEFT: Series is complete.

NOTED (Team Highlights vs. SEA)
CBJ swept the series in 2021-22 (2-0-0) with both games decided in overtime… There are no shutouts, hat tricks or penalty shots in the all-time series… Most goals scored vs. SEA: 2 (10/16/21)… Most goals allowed vs. SEA: 1 (10/16/21).

SCORING NOTABLES vs. SEA
• Gaudreau – 2-3-5 in 4 career 5 GP, including two assists in his last home game against the club
• Jenner – 0-2-2 in 3 Career GP, including collecting both assists in the OT win at Seattle last season
• Laine – 1-0-1 in 2 career GP, including the OT winner to give the CBJ their 1st-ever win against the Kraken on Oct. 16, 2021 at NWA
• Merzlikins – 2-1-0 with a 2.67 GAA and .904 SV% in 3 career GP, including stopping 19-of-20 shots in the OT win at home on 10/16/21
• Roslovic – 1-2-3 in 3 career GP, collecting all of his points in the past two outings

STRONG PLAY OF LATE
The Blue Jackets have recorded points in three-straight contests (2-0-1) and six of their last seven games (4-1-2) following Tuesday’s 5-3 victory over Buffalo. The club improved to 7-5-4 in the past 16 contests and has registered points in seven of its last nine contests (5-2-2) with wins against four of the top-14 teams in the League in points (Toronto-4th; Dallas-7th; Edmonton-12th; Winnipeg-14th). Columbus, which collected points in both games in each of its last two back-to-back sets (2-0-2), plays its 13th of 17 back-to-back sets of the season vs. Seattle (Friday) and at Ottawa (Saturday).

NHL Morning Skate – March 3, 2023

NHL Editor
-
0
NHL Morning Skate – March 3, 2023

* The clock is winding down – teams have until the 2022-23 NHL Trade Deadline presented by OFX at 3 p.m. ET today to add to their rosters.
 

* The Bruins potted seven goals against the Sabres and became the fastest team in NHL history to reach the 100-point mark in a season.

* Connor McDavid will look to become the third player in NHL history to record six straight multi-goal games when the Oilers host the Jets on a five-game Friday.


TRADE DEADLINE DAY IS HERE: TEAMS HAVE UNTIL 3 P.M. ET
With the Rush to the Playoffs already in full effect, teams will have until the 2022-23 NHL Trade Deadline presented by OFX at 3 p.m. ET today to add to their roster for the stretch run and playoffs. In the past seven days alone (since Feb. 25), teams have traded 72 different players across 37 transactions with 15 of the 16 current playoff teams making at least one move over that span.


 
* Among the players on the move the past seven days were multiple Stanley Cup winners and Conn Smythe Trophy recipients Patrick Kane (to NYR) and Jonathan Quick (to CBJ & again to VGK on Thursday), three-time 30-goal scorer Timo Meier (to NJD) and top-four defensemen Jakub Chychrun (to OTT), Mattias Ekholm (to EDM), Filip Hronek (to VAN) and Tyson Barrie (to NSH).
 
* The top three teams in the Atlantic Division have all loaded up since the start of February with the League-leading Bruins adding Garnet Hathaway, Dmitry Orlov and former 30-goal scorer Tyler Bertuzzi. The Maple Leafs have been the busiest of the three, adding former Conn Smythe Trophy winner Ryan O’Reilly, two-time Stanley Cup champion Luke Schenn, Noel Acciari, Jake McCabe, Sam Lafferty and Erik Gustafsson. The Lightning, who are looking to become the first team to reach the Stanley Cup Final in four consecutive years since the Islanders dynasty of the 1980s, added depth forwards Tanner Jeannot and Michael Eyssimont.

* For a full list of trades that took place Thursday, check out NHL.com’s 2022-23 Trade Tracker. For more notes on the 2022-23 NHL Trade Deadline Presented by OFX, click the #NHLStats Pack.



BRUINS BECOME FASTEST TEAM IN NHL HISTORY TO HIT 100 POINTS IN A SEASON
The League-leading Bruins (48-8-5, 101 points) buried seven goals against the Sabres and became the fastest team in NHL history to reach the 100-point mark in a season, besting the 1976-77 Canadiens (62 GP).

* Boston, which is on pace to establish new League records for both wins and points in a single season, was led in scoring by Dmitry Orlov and David Pastrnak with 1-2—3 apiece Thursday. Orlov (3-5—8 in 4 GP) became the third player in franchise history to record eight or more points through his first four games with the Bruins, joining forwards Fred Stanfield in 1967-68 (4-7—11 in 4 GP) and Dimitri Kvartalnov in 1992-93 (5-3—8 in 4 GP).



HINTZ’S HAT TRICK HELPS STARS CLAIM FIRST PLACE IN WEST; WILD KEEP PACE
The Stars (33-16-13, 79 points) beat the Blackhawks to leapfrog the idle Golden Knights (36-19-6, 78 points) for first place in the Western Conference, while the Wild (35-21-6, 76 points) bested the Canucks to keep pace with Dallas in the Central Division.

* Roope Hintz had the third hat trick of his NHL career and extended his goal streak to four games, with Dallas going 3-0-1 in those contests. Hintz (29-27—56 in 54 GP) moved within one marker of his second straight 30-goal season (also 37 in 2021-22).

* Kirill Kaprizov recorded his 18th career multi-goal game to tie Eric Staal and Mikko Koivu for the third most in Wild history behind only Marian Gaborik (41) and Zach Parise (25). Minnesota built a three-point lead over idle Colorado (34-20-5, 73 points) for second place in the Central Division.

RUSH TO THE PLAYOFFS: WILD CARD EDITION

The Penguins, Predators and Senators each picked up wins as the rush to claim a Wild Card position continued Thursday:

* In a game that featured four tying tallies, Jason Zucker scored his second straight winner via an overtime goal to help the Penguins (31-21-9, 71 points) slide past the Islanders (31-25-8, 70 points) into the Eastern Conference’s first Wild Card position. Should Zucker record the game-winning goal in his next outing, he would match a franchise record for the longest such run – a list that includes Sidney Crosby (3 GP from Jan. 23 – Feb. 2, 2016), Jaromir Jagr (3 GP from Dec. 27, 2000 – Jan. 3, 2001) and Doug Shedden (3 GP from Nov. 27 – Dec. 2, 1985). 

* Roman Josi (0-2—2) factored on both of his team’s goals as the Predators (30-23-6, 66 points) gained ground in the race for the final Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. Josi recorded his 89th career multi-assist game, tied with Ryan Suter for the fifth most among active defensemen behind Erik Karlsson (120 GP), Kris Letang (100 GP), Brent Burns (97 GP) and Victor Hedman (91 GP). 

* Derick Brassard scored twice while skating in his 1,000th NHL game to help the Senators(31-26-4, 66 points) move within four points of the Islanders for the final Wild Card position in the Eastern Conference, with Ottawa holding three games in hand over New York. Brassard became the third Senators player to score while skating in their 1,000th contest, joining David Legwand (1-0—1 on Nov. 29, 2014) and Chris Phillips (2-0—2 on Feb. 9, 2012).


QUICK CLICKS


* #NHLStats: Live Updates – March 2
* David Pastrnak signs 8-year, $90 million contract with Bruins

* Madison Square Garden hosts Travis Roy Hockey Classic
* Canucks honor Gino Odjick with pregame ceremony
* The work Ethan Bear does to support and empower Indigenous youth highlighted ahead of game


McDAVID EYES PIECE OF HISTORY IN ALL-CANADIAN SHOWDOWN

Connor McDavid (52-66—118 in 62 GP) and the Oilers (33-21-8, 74 points) welcome the Jets (35-24-2, 72 points) to Rogers Place in an all-Canadian, Western Conference showdown. McDavid, with 2-1—3 in his last outing against the Maple Leafs, can join Joe Malone (6 GP in 1920-21 w/ HAM) and Punch Broadbent (6 GP in 1921-22 w/ SEN) as the third player in NHL history to register six consecutive multi-goal games.


* Malone, one of the NHL’s first prolific goal scorers, was the first player in League history to score 100 goals and reached the milestone on Feb. 5, 1921 against the original Senators and goaltender Clint Benedict. His streak of six consecutive multi-goal games would begin two contests later versus the Toronto St. Patricks on Feb. 12 and conclude against the same Senators on Feb. 28 – a stretch that also saw an end to nine straight multi-point games (20-5—25 in 9 GP).

* Broadbent’s stretch of six consecutive multi-goal games in 1921-22 were a portion of his campaign that saw him conclude as the NHL’s goals (tied) and points leader (31-14—45 in 24 GP). Two games of his streak came in back-to-back outings against Malone and the Tigers on Jan. 21, 1922 (3-1—4) and Jan. 25, 1922 (2-0—2) – with the first contest also featuring a hat trick from his Hamilton counterpart.

NBA Preview: Los Angeles Clippers (33-32) at Sacramento Kings (36-25)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Preview: Los Angeles Clippers (33-32) at Sacramento Kings (36-25)

The second-highest scoring NBA matchup took place seven days ago between the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Clippers. Points were scored at a pinball-like rate.

When the host Kings and Clippers play again on Friday night in the capital of California, it is extremely unlikely that they will combine for 351 points once more.

There aren’t many games like the one on Feb. 24 in Los Angeles, when the Kings beat the Clippers 176-175 in double overtime.

The only game with more points scored was the 370 total points scored by the Detroit Pistons and Denver Nuggets on December 13, 1983, when they beat each other 186-184 in triple overtime.

Malik Monk of Sacramento had 45 points, a career-high, and De’Aaron Fox had 42 points, 12 assists, and 5 steals. Kawhi Leonard scored 44 points for Los Angeles, a season high, and Paul George added 34.

On Thursday, Leonard stated that he would not participate in the rematch on the second night of a back-to-back.

After losing to the Golden State Warriors 115-91 on Thursday in San Francisco, the young Kings are now in third place in the Western Conference, while Los Angeles is in seventh place. The Clippers had suffered their fourth defeat in a row.

Obviously, regardless of how many points are scored, every game is still important in the West because the 13th-place team is only 5 1/2 games behind the fourth-place team.

Los Angeles blew an 11-point halftime lead and was outscored 70-35 in the second half on Thursday against Golden State, so Sacramento will be more rested for the rematch.

Against the Warriors, Leonard scored 21 points, but George only had 11 points on 3-of-15 shooting. George stated that he would reevaluate the situation in the morning, but that he expected to play on Friday night.

After the game, Clippers forward Norman Powell was seen with his left arm in a sling. Neither his condition nor the severity of the injury were immediately known.

Against Golden State, Powell played 21 minutes and scored two points on 1-of-9 shooting.

The Clippers haven’t won in four games with Russell Westbrook on the court, scoring just eight points on 3-of-12 shooting.

Tyronn Lue, the coach in Los Angeles, believes that there is a lot of dissatisfaction.

After defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder twice on the road, Sacramento has won seven of nine games and four in a row.

On Sunday and Tuesday, the Kings prevailed 124-115 and 123-117. Fox missed the second game because of soreness in his left wrist, scoring 33 points in the first victory.

On Thursday, Fox participated in all practice sessions and was listed as questionable. Also thought to be questionable was big man Richaun Holmes, who had an illness that wasn’t COVID.

Barnes had 29 points in the game on Tuesday, Domantas Sabonis had 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 9 assists, and Kevin Huerter had 20 points.

During a road trip that began with the crazy game in Los Angeles, Sacramento went 3-0.

NBA Preview: New Orleans Pelicans (31-32) at Golden State Warriors (33-30)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Preview: New Orleans Pelicans (31-32) at Golden State Warriors (33-30)

The duel between the New Orleans Pelicans and Golden State Warriors will take place in San Francisco on Friday night. Both teams are competing in the Western Conference playoff race while they wait for injured All-Stars to return.

The Pelicans will have a better schedule than Golden State for the third straight season, despite playing at a location where the Warriors have gone 26-7 this season.

In November, New Orleans defeated the Warriors in two straight games at home, with Golden State playing on the second night of two consecutive road games. The Pelicans were off the clock the day before each of those games, just like they were on Thursday when the Warriors defeated the visiting Los Angeles Clippers by a score of 115-91.

Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Draymond Green were all rested by Warriors coach Steve Kerr in both of their previous matches, which ended 114-105 on Nov. 4 and 128-83 on Nov. 21.

Golden State’s losses were led by Jordan Poole, who scored 20 and 26 points, while Jonathan Kuminga scored 18 points in each game.

After coming from behind to beat the Clippers, the Warriors are ready for their next game against New Orleans.

Curry (knee) and Wiggins (personal) are expected to be out again for Golden State, as was Green (knee) on the second night of a back-to-back last week. However, Thompson participated in both ends of the pairing last week and scored 42 points, including 12 3-pointers, in a 116-101 victory over the Houston Rockets on the second night at home.

Green was replaced after 29 minutes due to the lopsided outcome on Thursday, increasing his likelihood of playing against the Pelicans as Golden State attempts to complete a 5-0 homestand.

Curry, who has been sidelined for the past ten games because of a ligament in his left leg that is partially torn, may return on Sunday, when Golden State plays the Los Angeles Lakers.

From the comfort of their San Francisco hotel rooms, the Pelicans were able to observe the Warriors’ victory over the Clippers. The night before, New Orleans defeated Portland 121-110 and flew into town on Thursday.

Since Zion Williamson last played on Jan. 2 due to a strained hamstring, the Pelicans have won just eight of their last 26 games. After a checkup next week, New Orleans hopes to have the star back on the court.

On CJ McCollum’s homecoming night, Brandon Ingram’s 40-point performance against the Trail Blazers stole the show. With 24 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, McCollum contributed.

Both Jose Alvarado (tibia) and Larry Nance Jr. (ankle), who aren’t expected back until at least the middle of the month, helped New Orleans win.

Willie Green, the coach of the Pelicans, realized that if his team is going to survive in the competitive Western playoff race, they will need more of the same from Ingram.

On March 28, the Warriors and Pelicans will play another game in San Francisco to conclude their season series.

Boxing Preview: Angel Fierro (20-1-2, 16, KOs) vs Eduardo Estela (14-1, 9 KO’s)

Fight Editor
-
0
Boxing Preview: Angel Fierro (20-1-2, 16, KOs) vs Eduardo Estela (14-1, 9 KO’s)

On March 4, Angel Fierrofacing Eduardo Estela will headline the latest installment of Matchroom Boxing’s popular fight night series, which will take place exclusively live on DAZN at the Polideportivo Arena in Culiacan, Mexico.

In what promises to be an explosive main event, Fierro (20-1-2, 16KOs) defends his WBO NABO Lightweight title against Estela (14-1, 9KOs), a former loser from Uruguay. The highly regarded WBO #5 Fierro is getting close to winning the 2023 World title, but first, he needs to defeat the extremely dangerous Estela, who just scored a career-high victory in November over previously undefeated Ruben Torres. Estela, whose promoter is former great Marcos Maidana, who will be present on fight night, has only lost once as a professional, in 2019 to rising Mexican powerhouse Mauricio Lara.

ANGEL FIERRO VS. EDUARDO ESTELA FIGHT DATE, START TIME
Date: Saturday, March 4
Time: 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. GMT
Main event ringwalks (approx): 10 p.m. ET / 3 a.m. GMT
The card will stream live on DAZN in over 200 countries across the globe.
The fight will take place at the Polideportivo Juan S. Millan, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
The main card is set to get underway at 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. GMT with the main event ringwalks scheduled for 10 p.m. ET / 3 a.m. GMT.

Fierro stated, “I am very happy to fight again in Mexico with my people.” I will demonstrate to them that I am prepared for a World title challenge and am looking forward to returning to the ring on March 4.

Estela declared, “March 4 is my time to shine.” I’m ready to put on yet another amazing performance after the biggest victory of my life. If I win against Fierro, I will be in the top tier of the 135-pound division, and he will not prevent me from doing so.

Although I am aware that I am entering hostile territory, this will only serve to motivate me further. I’m bringing everything I have, so Fierro better get ready.

At Super-Featherweight, Eduardo Nunez will fight Rodolfo Bustamante over ten rounds, providing the co-main event. The 25-year-old KO merchant known as “Sugar” Nunez enters the fight having won his only fight of 2022 in the tenth round in Culiacan in September. He is 23-1 with 23 knockouts. The Los Mochis man will be eager to continue his streak on March 4, but he faces tough competition from Bustamante (18-1-1, 11 KOs), who will fight for the first time in 2023 on his home turf.

Nunez stated, “I’m anxious, and we’ll prepare.” I’ve been putting in a lot of effort with my team, and I’m just waiting for March 4 to come around.

Bustamante stated, “I am very happy for this opportunity.” I’m coming with everything I’ve got, and I won’t let my Culiacan people down. I’m going to train hard.

Misael Rodriguez (12-0, 7 KOs), a 2016 Mexican Olympian, will compete against Rafael Ortiz over eight rounds at Middleweight. Criztec Balzaldua, a US #1-rated amateur, will make his professional debut against Alejandro Castillo over four rounds at Lightweight.

Rodriguez stated, “I feel happy and excited to fight on this great Matchroom card.” It’s great to fight in Culiacan, where I’ve fought twice and where people are familiar with boxing and have made me feel at home.

Matchroom south of the border had a breakout year in 2022, producing three unforgettable nights of boxing in the boxing-rich nation.

Hiroto Kyoguchi, the Japanese WBA Super Champion, defeated Mexico’s WBA Regular Champion Esteban Bermudez to defend his title in June. Rocky Hernandez, who defeated Jorge Castaneda, a highly regarded opponent, in the first round to become a breakout star, was also on that card. Mayerlin Rivas, the WBA 122-pound champion, made her long-awaited return on the card as well. She defeated Karina Fernandez spectacularly to keep her title.

Juan Francisco Estrada, the reigning Super-Flyweight King and pound-for-pound great, won a highly entertaining decision over fellow Mexican Argi Cortes in September when he returned to Hermosillo for the first time since 2019. The long-awaited trilogy with Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez for Estrada, which he won in December, was established by the victory over Cortes. In a rematch of their 2021 title fight, Mexico’s current WBA champion Erika Cruz defeated Jelena Mrdjevonich to defend her title. Sivenathi Nontshinga of South Africa defeated Mexico’s Hector Flores to win the vacant IBF 108lb title in an instant classic that is widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in Light-Flyweight history. The fight was nominated for and won the award for the 2022 Fight of the Year by a number of boxing publications.

The much-anticipated return of Mauricio Lara to Mexico City marked the end of Matchroom’s year in Mexico. The top-rated Featherweight contender appeared in his home city for the first time in more than two years, and he did not disappoint, brutally stopping former title challenger Jose Sanmartin within three rounds. It was a brutal defeat from arguably the sport’s most entertaining fighter, preparing him for his first World title fight against Leigh Wood, which will be broadcast live on DAZN on February 18 in Nottingham, England.

Eddie Hearn stated, “I cannot wait to return to Mexico for another great night.” In 2022, we had a wonderful year south of the border; All of our fight nights were exciting, and I anticipate that we will resume in March. If Fierro can deal with Estela in a stylish manner, he will knock on the door of Lightweight World title competition and join the big boys.”

ANGEL FIERRO VS. EDUARDO ESTELA FIGHT CARD
Angel Fierro vs. Eduardo Estela; Lightweight
Eduardo Nunez vs. Jesus Ceyca; Super featherweight
Misael Rodriguez vs. Aaron Guerrero; Middleweight
Yair Benjamin Gollardo-Lozano vs. Bernardo Jiminez Suarez; Super middleweight
Dilshodbek Ruzmetov vs. Jesus Moroyoqui; Light heavyweight
Criztec Bazaldua vs. Jose Armando Bustamante Islas; Lightweight

Boxing Preview: Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (22-1-1, 17 KOs) vs Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo (24-1, 16 KOs)

Fight Editor
-
0
Boxing Preview: Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (22-1-1, 17 KOs) vs Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo (24-1, 16 KOs)

Hard-hitting star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa will face Filipino sensation Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo in a matchup of all-action, high-powered former world champions on Saturday, March 4 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif., topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The 10-round middleweight co-main event of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast, which begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, will also feature the return of former unified world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd, who will fight power-punching Armando Reséndiz. Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia, both young middleweights who have never lost, will fight in a 10-round bout to get the show started.

WHAT TIME IS THE FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO FIGHT?
Date: Saturday, March 4
Main card: 1 a.m. GMT / 8 p.m. ET
Main event ringwalks (approx): 4 a.m. GMT / 11 p.m. ET
The fight will take place at the Toyota Arena, Ontario, California.
Showtime will broadcast the fight in the U.S.
The main card is set to get underway at 1 a.m. GMT / 8 p.m. ET with the main event ringwalks scheduled for 4 a.m. GMT / 11 p.m.

According to Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions, “Saturday, March 4 will be headlined by an explosive clash of exciting styles, as Brandon Figueroa and Mark Magsayo are sure to go toe-to-toe to secure their standing in the featherweight division.” Magsayo has the chance to regain his status after losing his title in a close fight the last time they met. Brandon made his featherweight debut in July of that year with a spectacular performance. The stage is set for a thrilling night live on SHOWTIME and at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California, with another certified action fighter, Jarrett Hurd, stepping into the ring in the co-main event against the up-and-coming Armando Reséndiz, and hungry young middleweights Amilcar Vidal and Elijah Garcia in the TV opener.

In his 126-pound debut, the 26-year-old Figueroa was dynamic. He was 22-1-1 and had 17 knockouts. He defeated Carlos Castro in the sixth round on SHOWTIME in July 2021. His last fight was in 2021’s Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers believed ended in controversy due to Figueroa’s loss by majority decision. Figueroa, a native of Weslaco, Texas, became the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship match on SHOWTIME prior to the Fulton fight due to his unwavering pressure and youthful enthusiasm. By defeating Nery, Figueroa won the WBC 122-pound world title, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who had previously held the WBC lightweight world title.

Figueroa stated, “I can’t wait to get back in the ring to do what I love.” Being up against a former featherweight champion like Magsayo gives me a lot of motivation because I want to fight the best. Because neither of us likes to back down, I’m confident that we’ll give the fans a great fight. This is my chance to really show the world what I can do at 126 pounds, and I’m just excited to win and prove it.”

In January 2022, Filipino boxer Magsayo (24-1, 16 KOs) defeated boxing’s then-longest-reigning male world champion Gary Russell Jr. to win the 126-pound title on SHOWTIME. He became the latest champion from the boxing-rich Philippines. On March 4, Magsayo will attempt to get closer to regaining that title after losing to Rey Vargas in a split decision in July despite dropping Vargas in round nine. The 27-year-old won his first shot at the title by knocking out Julio Ceja in the 10th round of a fight in August 2021, when Ceja was trailing on the scorecards. Magsayo, who trains with Freddie Roach in Southern California, has stopped former title challenger Chris Avalos in the sixth round and has won by decision in 12 rounds over Shoto Hayashi and Ramiro Robles.

Magsayo stated, “Figueroa and I both like to move forward, so everyone knows exactly what this will be like.” I want to reclaim my place in this division and provide the fans with the action they love. I’m prepared to deal with anyone they throw at me. I can’t wait to get back in the ring to perform once more because this is a genuine Mexican vs. Filipino matchup.”

In 2018, Hurd, who is 32 years old and is 24-2 with 16 knockouts, won a close decision to win the WBA and IBF 154-pound titles after defeating Erislandy Lara, the longtime champion, in the final round. In one of the best fights of 2019, the native of Accokeek, Maryland, would lose the titles by decision to Julian Williams. In February 2017, Hurd stopped Tony Harrison in the ninth round to become champion for the first time. He then defended the title against Austin Trout, another former champion. Hurd will return to the ring after losing to the difficult veteran Luis Arias in a split decision in June 2021.

Hurd said, “You must have forgotten, but I’m back to remind you what ‘Swift’ Jarrett Hurd is all about.” I want to dominate in this new weight class like I did at 154 pounds. On March 4, I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve been working on in the gym and showcase my skills. I’m ready to make a big statement of my own, even though I know Reséndiz will make the most of this chance.

In April 2021, Reséndiz (13-1, 9 KOs) made a successful debut in the United States. He started the fight with an eight-fight streak of knockouts before defeating Quilisto Madera by decision. He was born in Nayarit, Mexico, and now fights out of Los Angeles. He is 23 years old. He returned in October to dominate Heber Rondon on his way to a second-round stoppage after dropping a decision to veteran Marcos Hernandez in September 2021.

Reséndiz stated, “I’ve been preparing very hard to take full advantage of the opportunity I have in this fight.” I am supported by a formidable team, and I am confident that they are maximizing my potential. We are all working toward the same goal, and the fans will enjoy a great fight as a result. I will not back down from my fight for the Mexican people.

Vidal, who was born in Montevideo, Uruguay, now fights out of Las Vegas under the direction of top trainer Bob Santos. Vidal is 16-0 with 12 knockouts. The 26-year-old defeated three previously unbeaten fighters in a row between November 2019 and November 2020, including Zach Prieto on SHOBOX, in an impressive streak: Edward Ortiz and Leopoldo Reyna’s The New Generation®. On SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING in July 2021, Vidal won by decision over veteran competitor Immanuwel Aleem. Since then, Vidal has won three more fights, most recently by unanimous decision over Gabriel Omar Diaz.

Vidal stated, “I am very happy to be back on SHOWTIME for my fourth fight in the U.S.” In America, I’ve already defeated two undefeated fighters, and I’m confident that this will be my third victory. I am grateful for this opportunity and my entire team, including my new trainer, Bob Santos. I’m training in Las Vegas, and I can’t wait to show off my punching power.”

Garcia, who is based in Phoenix, Arizona, has a record of 13-0 with 11 knockouts. In December, he won his fourth fight of the year, defeating Cruse Stewart by TKO in the second round, which was broadcast live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. Since turning pro in 2020, the 19-year-old has made rapid progress, defeating his first six opponents and five of his last six to establish himself as a rising prospect.

Garcia stated, “This fight is going to be a gateway for me.” On a large stage, this is a great matchup, which simply means that there will be more eyes on me. I’m fighting an older, undefeated fighter who has fought more times than I have. I’m only 19 years old. That simply demonstrates my fighting spirit. If I win, a lot of doors will open for me, and soon everyone will know what I can do.

FIGUEROA VS. MAGSAYO FIGHT CARD
Brandon Figueroa vs. Mark Magsayo; Featherweight
Amilcar Vidal vs. Elijah Lorenzo Garcia; Middleweight
Jarrett Hurd vs. Jose Armando Resendiz; Middleweight
Terrell Gausha vs. Brandyn Lynch; Super welterweight
Justin DeLoach vs. Travon Marshall; Welterweight
Enriko Gogokhia vs. Samuel Teah; Super lightweight
Miguel Angel Hernandez vs. Dario Guerrero-Meneses; Middleweight
Albert Gonzalez vs. Joseph Cruz Brown; Featherweight
Daniel Blancas vs. Kynndale Prather; Super middleweight

Boxing Preview: Lewis Ritson (23-2-0, 13 KO’s) vs O’hara Davies (24-2-0, 17 KO’s)

Fight Editor
-
0
Boxing Preview: Lewis Ritson (23-2-0, 13 KO’s) vs O’hara Davies (24-2-0, 17 KO’s)

Lewis Ritson and O’hara Davies’ highly anticipated duel has been scheduled for March 4. In the sport, both fighters have established themselves as skilled boxers, and they are now ready to face off in their long-awaited rivalry. The fight looks like it will be a thrilling one, with both fighters trying to outclass the other in a boxing match that will undoubtedly be stunning.

Lewis Ritson has been competing in the sport for a long time. He has a respectable record of 23 wins and two losses. His aggressive demeanor and willingness to take on any challenge have always made him famous. Ritson wants to show that he is still the best fighter in the business with this fight. In order to ensure that he is prepared for the strenuous battle that lies ahead, he has put in a lot of effort training and honing his skills.

WHEN IS LEWIS RITSON VS. OHARA DAVIES? DATE, START TIME
Date: Saturday, March 4
Main card: 2 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. GMT
Main event ringwalks (approx): 5 p.m. ET / 10 p.m. GMT
Watch LIVE on FITE TV!
The fight will take place at the Newcastle Arena, Newcastle, England
The main card is set to get underway at 2 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. GMT with the main event ringwalks scheduled for 5 p.m. ET / 10 p.m. GMT.

Ritson has also made it clear that he wants to win. He has stated that he will put on a show for the fans in order to demonstrate that he still possesses the ability to defeat the best. On the night of the fight, he is certain to give it his all and come into the ring with complete self-assurance.

In the ring, O’hara Davies is no slouch either. He is determined to win, having amassed an impressive record of 24 wins and 2 losses. He has put in a lot of work training and will undoubtedly fight Ritson well. In order to win, he has been practicing both his mental and technical skills.

Additionally, Davies is eager to demonstrate his talent on a grand stage. He has stated that he wants to provide the fans with a fantastic performance and is determined to demonstrate that he can surpass Ritson. Both fighters will be eager to show that they are the best, so expect a thrilling fight.

Boxing fans should have a good time on March 4th. The showdown between Ritson and Davies, which has been highly anticipated, will undoubtedly be thrilling. Both fighters are determined to demonstrate their superiority and will undoubtedly deliver an intense and captivating show. Boxing fans are in for a treat as it promises to be an epic battle.

LEWIS RITSON VS. OHARA DAVIES FIGHT CARD
Lewis Ritson vs. Ohara Davies
Thomas Patrick Ward vs. Otabek Kholmatov
Lee McGregor vs Alexis Boureima Kabore
Adam Cope vs. Brayan Mairena
Ewan Mackenzie vs. TBA
Steven Cairns vs. Jakub Laskowski
Ben Rees vs. Konstantin Aleksandrov
Callum Walton vs. Zdenko Bule

NBA Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (32-32) at Los Angeles Lakers (30-33)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (32-32) at Los Angeles Lakers (30-33)

With star player LeBron James out for at least the next two weeks with a right foot injury, Los Angeles Lakers coach Darvin Ham is adjusting quickly as his team pursues a playoff spot.

Fortunately for the Lakers, center Anthony Davis will return to the lineup on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves to kick off a five-game homestand.

On Wednesday, the undermanned Lakers prevailed 123-117 over the Thunder in Oklahoma City, their fifth victory in their last seven contests.

Davis didn’t play against the Thunder because Davis didn’t want to miss the second game of a back-to-back. The right foot injury forced the eight-time All-Star to miss 20 games earlier this season.

Additionally, the Lakers have been without point guard D’Angelo Russell, who is likely to miss his fourth consecutive game due to a right ankle injury.

The Lakers prevailed over the Thunder through collective effort despite the absence of three key players. Dennis Schroder had 26 points, Troy Brown Jr. had 19, which was his best performance of the season, and Austin Reaves also had 19.

Ham stated that in the absence of James, multiple players will need to continue to step up.

In the victory over Oklahoma City, Reaves made 8 of 9 free throws and 5 of 5 field goals. By scoring at least 17 points in three of his last four games, the second-year professional has quickly adjusted to playing a bigger role.

The Lakers are vying with a number of teams for a spot in the play-in tournament, including Minnesota, which is currently ranked No. 11 in the Western Conference. Position 8 The teams that finished seventh through tenth in each conference play for the Nos in the tournament. 7 and 8 playoff seeds, respectively.

With a road victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, the Wolves ended a three-game losing streak. Minnesota outscored the Clippers 60-38 in the paint thanks to six double-digit scoring performances from its players.

In the victory, Jaden McDaniels scored 20 points and has averaged 15.4 points in his last five games. The forward, who is in his third year, also played great defense against Clippers stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.

Minnesota has won its last two games against the Lakers, including a 111-102 victory on Oct. 28. Anthony Edwards is averaging 24.6 points on 45.8% shooting.

NBA Preview: Memphis Grizzlies (38-23) at Denver Nuggets (44-19)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Preview: Memphis Grizzlies (38-23) at Denver Nuggets (44-19)

When they defeated the Denver Nuggets by 18 points on Saturday in a Western Conference matchup of the top two teams, the Memphis Grizzlies demonstrated how dominant they can be.

Memphis will have to play on the road if it wants to reach the West’s top seed. On Wednesday night, the Grizzlies defeated Houston to end an eight-game road losing streak; however, on Friday night, they will face a challenging opponent in Denver.

The teams meet for the third and final time, with each team having won at home.

Memphis needs to win on Friday night because the Nuggets have a five-game lead over them, four of which are losses. The Nuggets would hold the tiebreaker and a commanding lead with one month remaining in the regular season if Denver wins.

The Grizzlies hope that their Friday night victory over the sagging Rockets will carry over.

Despite a report this week about an alleged incident he was involved in at a summer pick-up basketball game, Memphis star Ja Morant is performing well. Morant was reported to the police, but no charges were brought against him.

Morant scored 20 points against Houston and 39 against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.

For the past three months, the Nuggets have been dominant in basketball and are nearly unbeatable at home (28-4). Since Dec. 6, they have only lost one game at Ball Arena.

It helps that Denver has Nikola Jokic, who has won the MVP two times. He would become the first player since Larry Bird in 1984-86 to win the award three times in a row if he wins it again. While shooting 63.3 percent from the field, Jokic is averaging a triple-double of 24.6 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 10.0 assists per game.

Now that the Nuggets are getting closer to full health, he has been getting a lot of help. Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon each average 17.0 points per game, and Jamal Murray, who returns from a three-week absence to add more scoring punch, is averaging 20.1 points per game.

As the regular season winds down, Denver’s offense is on point, and its defense has been one of the best in the NBA over the last 41 games. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who can concentrate on one player to free up the rest of the defense, was brought in this summer.

NBA Preview: Utah Jazz (31-32) at Oklahoma City Thunder (28-34)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Preview: Utah Jazz (31-32) at Oklahoma City Thunder (28-34)

Will Hardy, the head coach of the Utah Jazz, wants his team to go back to basics.

Hardy hopes that Utah can recover from a loss to San Antonio on Tuesday night at home. On Friday, the Jazz begin a six-game road trip that will last the entire season. They will play the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Jazz missed an opportunity to move above.500 in a 102-94 defeat on Tuesday, three nights after easily defeating the visiting Spurs by 118 points on Saturday.

Utah has committed at least 20 turnovers in all but one of the last four games, averaging 19.5 per game.

Utah’s trip starts with games against the Thunder. They will play once more Sunday evening.

Since the All-Star break, neither the Jazz nor the Thunder have had enough players.

Jordan Clarkson missed Tuesday’s game with a right thumb sprain, and Utah’s Collin Sexton has missed the past three games with a left hamstring strain. Clarkson took part in some of the practice on Thursday, but it is still unknown if he will be able to return on Friday.

In the defeat on Tuesday, Ochai Agbaji broke his right lower leg, but he is expected to play on Friday.

For the fifth game in a row, the Thunder are likely to be without All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilgeous-Alexander has been in the NBA’s health and safety protocol for the last two games despite recently having an abdominal strain.

Oklahoma City will be without forward Kenrich Williams for the remainder of the year, although Gilgeous-Alexander is anticipated to return soon. In the defeat against Sacramento on Tuesday, Williams’ left wrist suffered a rupture of the scapholunate ligament. Williams would need surgery to end his season, the Thunder said on Thursday.

Even though Williams only averages 8.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 53 games, he has contributed significantly to Oklahoma City’s success this season. With Williams on the floor, the Thunder outscored their opponents by 4.0 points per 100 possessions, whereas without Williams, they have a net rating of -0.7. Additionally, he leads the NBA with 26 draws this season.

A five-game losing streak that has lasted the entirety of the season has put Oklahoma City’s chances of making the play-in tournament in jeopardy.

In Oklahoma City’s 123-117 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, Josh Giddey had 17 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, just one rebound shy of a triple-double. Coach Mark Daigneault praised Giddey for his attack on Los Angeles’ smaller guards.

Giddey, on the other hand, wants more.

This season, the teams have met four times, the second of those being on Friday. Lauri Markkanen scored 43 points for Utah, which prevailed in overtime to win the first game 120-119 in Salt Lake City on February 23.

1...2,9192,9202,921...4,019Page 2,920 of 4,019

Contact us: info@sportsgamingjournal.com

* PLEASE NOTE: THE INFORMATION CONTAINED AT THIS SITE IS FOR NEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY. ANY USE OF THIS INFORMATION IN VIOLATION OF ANY FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL LAWS IS PROHIBITED.

FOLLOW US

TODAY"S TOP CATEGORIES

© Copyright 2024, Sports Gaming Journal. All rights reserved.