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NHL Morning Skate – March 18, 2026

NHL Editor
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NHL Morning Skate – March 18, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – March 18, 2026

* Nikita Kucherov scored a hat trick in his ninth career five-point game and overtook Nathan MacKinnon for second in the Art Ross Trophy race in 2025-26. Kucherov now trails Connor McDavid by just four points for the top spot.

* Cole Caufield became the first Canadiens player in more than 30 years to record a 40-goal season when he netted the overtime winner against the Bruins to keep Montreal third in the Atlantic Division.

* Today marks exactly one month to puck drop on the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, scheduled to begin on April 18. As the Rush to the Playoffs hits the one-month countdown, everything is yet to be decided – all 16 playoff berths and standings seeds need to be clinched including each of the Wild Card positions, the Presidents’ Trophy and all four division titles, which are within reach for a number of teams.
 

KUCHEROV RACKS UP FIVE POINTS, MOVES UP ART ROSS TROPHY RACE

Nikita Kucherov (3-2—5) scored his seventh career hat trick and ninth career five-point game to help the Lightning (41-21-4, 86 points) keep pace with the Sabres (42-20-6, 90 points) atop the Atlantic Division. Kucherov boosted his totals to 37-74—111 and moved four back of Connor McDavid (37-78—115) for the most points this season.

* Kucherov climbed into sole possession of third on Tampa Bay’s all-time hat tricks list and tied Peter Forsberg, Teemu Selanne and Kent Nilsson for the third-most five-point games among skaters born outside of North America, behind only Jari Kurri (16) and Peter Stastny (12).

* Kucherov was as many as 22 points back of the scoring lead this season (Dec. 23, 2025) and moved back into sole possession of second after his five-point night put him past Nathan MacKinnon (45-65—110). In the process, he tied Stastny (5) for the most 110-point seasons among players born outside of North America and matched McDavid (5) for the most among active players.


CAUFIELD SCORES 40TH GOAL IN OT, KEEPS CANADIENS IN ATLANTIC’S TOP THREE

With Montreal holding a one-point edge over Boston heading into Tuesday, a 2-2 contest between the teams headed into overtime, with the Atlantic Division’s third spot up for grabs for the winner. It was Cole Caufield (1-1—2) who scored his 13th career overtime tally and 40th goal of the season to keep the Canadiens (37-20-10, 84 points) in third place as they built a two-point cushion over the Bruins (37-23-8, 82 points) and Red Wings (37-23-8, 82 points) with a game in hand.

* Caufield recorded his first career 40-goal season and became the first Canadiens player to reach the mark since Vincent Damphousse (40 in 1993-94). Caufield also became the first American to score 40 goals in a campaign with Montreal, a feat former captain Max Pacioretty (39 in 2013-14) was close to achieving more than 10 years ago.

* Caufield’s League-leading 24th go-ahead goal of the season was his 19th career overtime point – he passed Howie Morenz (18) for sole possession of the second most in Canadiens history, behind only Nick Suzuki, who recorded his 20th with the assist on Caufield’s winner. That helper was Suzuki’s 80th point of 2025-26 and made him the franchise’s first player with consecutive 80-point campaigns since Damphousse (1995-96 – 1996-97).

COYLE HAS FOUR-POINT NIGHT AS BLUE JACKETS CONTINUE STRING OF SUCCESS
Charlie Coyle (1-3—4) factored on four of five Columbus goals to help the Blue Jackets push their point streak to 10 games and tie their fifth-longest run in franchise history – the last time they had a lengthier stretch was in 2019-20 (12 GP). Columbus (35-21-11, 81 points) moved within one point of Boston (37-23-8, 82 points) and Detroit (37-23-8, 82 points), which own the first and second Wild Card spots, respectively.

* Coyle notched his third four-point outing of 2025-26 and tied Artemi Panarin (3 in 2017-18) for the most in a single campaign by a Blue Jackets skater. Since head coach Rick Bowness took over behind the Blue Jackets bench on Jan. 13, Coyle has logged 10-19—29 (22 GP) – tied for the eighth-highest point total in the NHL.

ROOKIE SCORING RACE SPOTLIGHTED IN #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES

The latest edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates featured rookies finding the score sheet, including Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (0-1—1), Predators forward Matthew Wood (1-0—1) and Sharks forward Pavol Regenda (1-0—1). The latter two scored the League’s 500th and 501st goals by rookies this season, which is the highest total in a single campaign since 2021-22 (611).

* Schaefer factored on the game winner with his family in the audience at Scotiabank Arena as New York (39-24-5) recorded its 83rd point of the season – one more than its total at the end of 2024-25 (35-35-12, 82 points) – and inched closer to idle Pittsburgh (34-18-15, 83 points) for second place in the Metropolitan Division. Schaefer boosted his 2025-26 totals to 20-29—49 (68 GP) and surpassed Bryan Berard (1996-97: 8-40—48 in 82 GP) for the fourth-most points in a season by a rookie defenseman in franchise history.


* Wood scored his 15th goal of the season as the Predators (30-28-9, 69 points) defeated the Jets (28-28-11, 67 points) in the shootout to keep pace in the Western Conference’s Wild Card Race. Wood (62 GP) became the third-fastest skater to score their first 15 NHL goals with Nashville, following Tanner Jeannot (48 GP) and Filip Forsberg (52 GP).   



NICK AND MARCUS TEAM UP FOR FOLIGNO FACE-OFF

Nick and Marcus Foligno continue their efforts with the NHL, NHLPA, the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Wild through Hockey Fights Cancer powered by the V Foundation for Cancer Research to raise critical funds for breast cancer research in honor of their late mother, Janis. What started as a sibling rivalry on two opposing teams has evolved into them joining forces. The brothers will play alongside one another for the first time in their careers, turning their long-standing competition into a shared mission to advance cancer research. Together, they have already raised over $140,000 to help change the future of breast cancer research.

* Click here for full details on how the Foligno Face-Off continues, including how to get involved Thursday when Nick faces his former team with the Blackhawks visiting the Wild on March 19 at 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+, HULU, Sportsnet+).

QUICK CLICKS

* Nick Foligno receives warm welcome back from Blackhawks fans
* Panthers could pull off late playoff push like Maple Leafs in 1949, ’67

* Leon Draisaitl expected to be out rest of regular season for Oilers
* USA baseball wears Olympic hockey jerseys before final

* Women in Hockey feature: Karilyn Pilch, Blackhawks’ Director of Player Personnel

PUCK DROPS ON THE 2026 STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS IN ONE MONTH TODAY

A six-game Wednesday will feature another NHL on TNT doubleheader that concludes with the top two teams in the League standings – the Avalanche (44-13-9, 97 points) and Stars (42-15-10, 94 points) – on the date that marks exactly one month to the start of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, scheduled to begin April 18. All 16 playoff berths are yet to be clinched, as well as a number of titles, including the Presidents’ Trophy, which could be captured by one of the two teams battling in the final TNT game tonight – Dallas can move within one point of Colorado for top spot in the League standings. The last time any club was within one point of the Avalanche was through Dec. 5, 2025 (DAL: 19-5-5, 43 points; COL: 19-2-6, 44 points).


* With all 16 playoff berths still up for grabs – the 2026 postseason is trending towards historic turnover. It is on pace for an eight-team playoff turnover, which would be an NHL record. A total of 11 teams that did not make the postseason last year are either in the bracket (8) or within four points of a playoff seed (3). The playoff line is within slim margins in both conferences – one point in the East and even in the West (requiring tiebreakers).

* Two teams currently holding a playoff spot – the Atlantic Division-leading Sabres and Wild Card-holding Red Wings – can end the NHL’s lengthiest active postseason droughts. Buffalo could make its return for the first time in 15 years (2010-11), while Detroit is looking to do so for the first time in a decade (2015-16).

* At least one team has clinched a playoff spot in its final game in three straight seasons – overall 10 teams have done so since 2013-14. The Senators, in action on Sportsnet on Wednesday, will look to follow that trajectory and inch closer to the playoff line when they face off against the Capitals. Should Ottawa earn a win, it will move within three points of a Wild Card spot.

DP World Tour Golf Preview: Hainan Classic

Agate Editor
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DP World Tour Golf Preview: Hainan Classic

Round 1 Tee Times: Begin ~7:20 a.m. local (China Standard Time, UTC+8) – split across two courses
Coverage: DP World Tour app/website, YouTube highlights, Sky Sports (select regions), and local Chinese broadcast Venue: Mission Hills Resort Haikou – Haikou, Hainan Island, China (one of Asia’s largest golf resorts with 10 championship courses)

Venue & Course Details

Mission Hills Haikou sits on China’s tropical southern island of Hainan, a volcanic paradise known for its luxury resorts and dramatic landscapes. This marks only the second edition of the Hainan Classic on the DP World Tour, but the venue already has pedigree — the Blackstone Course hosted the 2011 World Cup of Golf (won by Americans Matt Kuchar & Gary Woodland). For 2026, a unique dual-course pro-am format is in play:

  • Blackstone Course (primary venue, Rounds 1–2 split + all weekend rounds): Par 72, 7,637 yards. Designed by Schmidt-Curley (2010). Built atop an ancient lava field with holes carved through dense jungle vegetation, expansive lakes/wetlands, and penal lava rock hazards. Generous fairways but off-line shots are costly. Multi-tiered Paspalum greens demand precise iron play and strong scrambling. One of the longest layouts on the Tour — rewards big hitters and elite tee-to-green game. The 18th plays as a long par-4 (converted from par-5).
  • Vintage Course (used only Rounds 1–2 pro-am): Par 72, ~7,331 yards. Tree-lined parkland style with abrupt mounds, heavy bunkering, blind shots, doglegs, and varied green complexes. A more strategic, precision-based test compared to Blackstone’s power demands.

Key Stats/Trends: Fairway accuracy and GIR are premium (historical top finishers hit 66–83% fairways and 70–83% GIR). Scrambling and putts-per-GIR on Paspalum surfaces separate the field. Course record and scoring average data are limited due to the new event, but expect winning scores around 15–17 under par on the long Blackstone. No major setup changes for 2026 — firm, fast, and penal off the tee. Field size: 120 professionals + 120 amateurs in pro-am teams for the first two rounds. Halfway cut after 36 holes (pros only thereafter).

Weather Conditions

Classic tropical Hainan spring weather with no rain forecast for the tournament (largely dry and sunny all four days).

  • Thursday–Sunday (Rounds 1–4): Highs peaking at 30°C (86°F), lows around 20–22°C (68–72°F). Light winds 5–12 mph (variable direction, mostly calm afternoons). High humidity typical of the island but excellent visibility and no storms expected.
  • Conditions will be warm and playable, slightly favouring early tee times before any afternoon heat builds. Perfect for full-course scoring with no weather interruptions — ball flight and green firmness will remain consistent.

Tournament History

Only the second staging of the Hainan Classic as a DP World Tour event (co-sanctioned with the China Golf Tour). 2025 Winner (inaugural, all four rounds on Blackstone): Marco Penge (−17) — beat Sean Crocker and Kristoffer Reitan by three strokes. Penge’s breakthrough victory propelled him to three DPWT wins in 2025 and a PGA Tour card.
Top-5 finishers in 2025 all showed elite SG: Off-the-Tee, Approach, and Tee-to-Green. Penge led the field in SG: Putting. No deeper history, but the Blackstone’s 2011 World Cup legacy adds prestige. Francesco Molinari returns with personal course knowledge (played 2011 World Cup with brother Edoardo). The Asian Swing opener always produces low scores and breakout stories — expect another maiden winner or big-name resurgence.
Purse: $2,550,000 (winner’s share significant for Race to Dubai points — 500 to the champion).

2026 Season Form & Key Player Matchups

The DP World Tour’s Asian Swing kicks off after the African and Middle East legs. Standout performers entering the week include consistent ball-strikers and big hitters who thrive on long, penal courses. Favorites & Storylines to Watch:

  • Angel Ayora (betting favourite) — Multiple top-10s this season (three in last four starts), 50th DPWT appearance, elite driver (top-5 distance), and frequent leaderboard presence. Perfect profile for Blackstone’s length and demands.
  • Marco Penge (defending champion) — Hot off his 2025 breakthrough here; proven course horse.
  • Sean Crocker (2025 runner-up) — Led midway last year; returning with revenge motivation and strong recent SG: Approach numbers.
  • Thriston Lawrence / Oliver Lindell / Wenyi Ding — Next in the market; Lawrence and Lindell bring power, Ding adds local knowledge and crowd support.
  • Francesco Molinari (Ryder Cup legend & course veteran) — Recent top-10s (Nedbank, Dubai Desert Classic), loves Asia (WGC HSBC win + Hong Kong podiums), and has explicit Blackstone experience. Lightly raced but turning a corner.

Other Live Threats & Dark Horses:

  • Mikael Lindberg — Six straight cuts, top-15s, elite SG: Tee-to-Green; big driver suits the layout.
  • Nathan Kimsey — Form horse with recent top-10s and Qualifying School pedigree.
  • Jordan Gumberg — 16th here last year (top-10 after 54 holes); recent encouraging signs.
  • Eugenio Chacarra, Dan Bradbury, Freddy Schott — Recent winners with distance and momentum.

Key Matchups: Ayora’s power vs. Molinari’s experience in the Snake Pit-style finish on Blackstone; Penge defending against Crocker’s course familiarity; big-hitter Lindberg/Schott vs. precision players like Kimsey on the Vintage pro-am day. The pro-am format adds fun and strategy early before the cut sharpens focus.

Betting Trends

  • Big hitters and SG: Tee-to-Green leaders dominated 2025 top-5.
  • Paspalum greens reward hot putters and scramblers (top finishers averaged strong putting stats).
  • Dual-course pro-am adds volatility early — value on players who post low scores on either layout.
  • Limited field strength (no Reed, Schaper, Jarvis) boosts maiden-winner and veteran resurgence odds.
  • Heavy money on Ayora; value shifting to Molinari/Lindberg at plus prices and course-history plays like Crocker/Gumberg.

PGA Golf Preview: Valspar Championship

Agate Editor
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PGA Golf Preview: Valspar Championship

Tee Time is scheduled for Round 1 Tee Times: Begin ~7:35 a.m. ET (gates open 7 a.m.)
TV Coverage: Golf Channel (Thurs/Fri 2–6 p.m. ET; Sat/Sun full-day NBC/Golf Channel combo) | Radio/Streaming: PGA Tour Live, SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio
Venue: Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club (Copperhead Course) – Palm Harbor, Florida (36750 US Hwy 19 N)

Venue & Course Details

The Valspar Championship returns for its 25th anniversary at the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Resort, a Salamander Golf & Spa property located about 25 miles northwest of Tampa in Palm Harbor, Florida. Designed by Larry Packard and opened in 1974, this classic parkland layout is one of the PGA Tour’s toughest and most distinctive tests — nicknamed for its venomous “Snake Pit” finish.

  • Length: 7,352 yards
  • Par: 71 (front nine: 36; back nine: 35)
  • Layout: Tree-lined fairways with significant elevation changes and rolling terrain; narrow landing areas (one of the lowest fairway-hit percentages on Tour); thick overseeded Bermudagrass rough (~3.75 inches); large bunkers; water hazards in play on six holes. Greens are overseeded Bermudagrass and slope enough to demand precise iron play.
  • Signature Stretch (“Snake Pit” – Holes 16–18):
    • Hole 16: Par 4, 454 yards (dogleg left, elevated approach)
    • Hole 17: Par 3, 194 yards (long, downhill with trouble short and long)
    • Hole 18: Par 4, 423 yards (“The Copperhead” – uphill approach to a crowned green)
  • Key Stats (historical averages): Scoring average ~71.76; GIR ~55% (second-toughest on Tour in recent years); demands elite ball-striking (SG: Approach and tee-to-green) over raw distance. Record low round: 62; tournament scoring record: 267 (−17).

The course rewards accuracy off the tee (many holes play shorter than driver), strategic positioning, scrambling, and patience in the wind. Setup is firm and fast, with no major changes noted for 2026.

Practice rounds and pro-am events ran earlier in the week; the field is a strong 135–144 players after some late withdrawals (e.g., Akshay Bhatia, Robert MacIntyre).

Weather Conditions

Ideal early-Florida spring conditions with no rain in the forecast (0–3% precipitation chance all week).

  • Thursday (Round 1): Morning lows ~52–55°F (cool start for early groups), highs reaching 70–74°F; winds 12–15 mph (gusts to 20 mph) from the northeast, calming slightly in the afternoon. Sunny intervals and excellent visibility.
  • Friday (Round 2): Similar — morning ~54°F, winds lighter at 8–12 mph (gusts teens); highs mid-70s.
  • Weekend (Rounds 3–4): Warming trend to highs 75–80°F+ with lighter breezes and abundant sunshine. UV high — sunscreen recommended.

Dry, breezy early and pleasant later — perfect for full-course strategy but will amplify the difficulty of the narrow fairways and Snake Pit.

Tournament History

The Valspar Championship (formerly Tampa Bay Classic / Transitions Championship) has been contested at Copperhead since 2000 (with exceptions in 2001 and 2020). It is famous for producing dramatic finishes and rewarding “horses for course.” Recent Winners (and scores to par):

  • 2025: Viktor Hovland (−11) – edged Justin Thomas by 1 stroke
  • 2024: Peter Malnati (−12)
  • 2023: Taylor Moore (−10)
  • 2022: Sam Burns (−17)
  • 2021: Sam Burns (−17)
  • 2019: Paul Casey (−8)
  • 2018: Paul Casey (−10)

Multiple Winners: Sam Burns (2), Paul Casey (2), plus K.J. Choi and Retief Goosen earlier. Defending champion Viktor Hovland returns as a strong contender. Lowest winning score: 267 (−17). The Snake Pit has decided multiple titles, and course history is a proven edge — past champions and multiple top-10 finishers here often outperform their odds. Purse: $9,100,000 (winner’s share ~$1.638M).

2026 Season Form & Key Player Matchups

The Florida Swing (after The Players Championship) has highlighted ball-strikers. Top FedExCup contenders and recent performers entering the week include: Favorites & Storylines to Watch:

  • Xander Schauffele (+900–1100) – Pre-tournament betting favorite. Elite tee-to-green game, recent strong form post-Players, and consistent on tough setups.
  • Matt Fitzpatrick (+1300–1475) – Runner-up at The Players; leads the field in true strokes gained tee-to-green this season. Copperhead’s accuracy demands suit his iron play perfectly.
  • Viktor Hovland (+1600) – Defending champion and course horse (multiple strong finishes here). Coming off solid 2025 win and knows every nuance of the Snake Pit.
  • Jacob Bridgeman (+1800) – Rising star with recent momentum; long and accurate enough to contend.
  • Justin Thomas (+2000–2200) – Runner-up in 2025; past winner elsewhere but loves this layout’s precision test.
  • Other Live Threats: Brooks Koepka (+2200–2500), Jordan Spieth (+2350–2700, past winner here), Patrick Cantlay (+2200–2500), Ben Griffin, J.J. Spaun.

Dark Horses & Course Specialists: Billy Horschel, Brandt Snedeker (sponsor exemption, hot early), Sungjae Im (early leader after injury return with 7-under 64 in Round 1), Davis Thompson. Ringers and veterans like Rickie Fowler and Corey Conners add depth.

Key Matchups: Schauffele vs. Fitzpatrick (pure ball-striking battle); Hovland defending his turf against Thomas in the Snake Pit; Spieth’s short-game wizardry vs. the firm greens. Expect a grind — only ~10–12 players under par after 72 holes historically. Betting Trends & Odds (as of mid-week / early tournament)

Betting Trends:

  • Course-history players dominate (Hovland, Burns-types, Casey repeats).
  • Accuracy & approach play win here — top-10 SG: Approach and SG: Tee-to-Green leaders cash frequently.
  • The Snake Pit inflates late drama; value on players strong in par-3s and scrambling.
  • Wind early in the week adds premium to Thursday/Friday rounds for live betting.
  • Top-10 finish props popular on veterans like Spieth and Horschel.

Boxing Match Preview: Felix Parrilla (12-0-0, 10 KOs) vs. Jose Velasquez (34-12-3, 24 KOs)

Fight Editor
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Boxing Match Preview: Felix Parrilla (12-0-0, 10 KOs) vs. Jose Velasquez (34-12-3, 24 KOs)

The main event scheduled for approximately 8:00 PM ET (DAZN broadcast start time; undercard earlier).
Venue: Coliseo Pedrin Zorrilla (Coliseíto Pedrín Zorrilla), San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Broadcast: Live on DAZN (U.S. and international).
Bout Details: 10-round main event for the vacant WBO Latino Featherweight Title at 126 lbs (confirmed weigh-ins: Parrilla 125.4 lbs, Velasquez 125.8 lbs). Promotion: Salita Promotions / Universal Promotions (Big Time Boxing Puerto Rico card).

This is a classic prospect-vs-veteran showcase in Puerto Rico, headlining a DAZN card featuring rising local talent. Parrilla, fighting in front of a supportive crowd despite being Connecticut-based with Puerto Rican roots, aims to stay undefeated and claim his first regional title.

Fighter Matchups

  • Felix Parrilla (12-0-0, 10 KOs, 83.3% KO rate) – Age 26 (DOB August 28, 1999), USA (New Haven, CT residence), Featherweight. Aggressive pressure fighter with proven power and improving boxing skills. Height/reach/stance not publicly detailed on major databases, but fights at 126 lbs consistently.
  • Jose “Pancora” Velasquez (34-12-3, 24 KOs, ~70% KO rate among wins) – Age 36 (DOB June 21, 1989), Chile (Quellon residence), orthodox stance, 5′ 2½″ (159 cm) tall with 64″ (163 cm) reach. Durable veteran who has challenged for world titles (lost UD 12 to Murodjon Akhmadaliev for IBF/WBA super bantam belts) and held/regional titles (WBO Latino). Fights primarily at 122-126 lbs now.

Recent Form
Parrilla (on a 12-fight win streak, all pro fights):

  • Oct 2025: TKO 3 vs. Kenneth Taylor (15-5-2)
  • May 2025: TKO 7 vs. Edgardo Rolon Varela (9-1)
  • Apr 2025: UD 10 vs. Hegly Mosqueda (25-0) – toughest test to date
  • Oct 2024: TKO 3 vs. Steven Guachambosa
  • Aug 2024/2023: Multiple early TKOs/UDs vs. journeymen and gatekeepers.
    Dominant recent performances with stoppages in 3-7 rounds against improving opposition; only one recent 10-round decision.

Velasquez (mixed 2-3-1 in last ~6-8 outings):

  • Oct 2025: W (method unspecified) vs. Juan Jimenez (9-11)
  • May 2025: L UD 10 vs. Yerny Betancourt (25-2) – dropped twice in round 1
  • Feb 2025: TKO 4 vs. Andy Almendras
  • Oct 2024: L UD 10 vs. Bryan Mercado Vazquez (28-1)
  • May 2024: L UD 10 vs. David Cuellar (27-0)
  • Earlier: L UD vs. Shingo Wake; D for regional title; W TKO vs. lower-level foes.
    Durable but struggling against prospects and title-level fighters lately; never been stopped in 49+ bouts.

Fight History & Key Insights
Parrilla turned pro in 2021 and has steadily climbed with high-volume stoppages early, then showed championship distance against a 25-0 foe. No major losses or setbacks; this is his biggest step-up and first 10-rounder in some time (prior 10-round UD win). Velasquez debuted in 2013, boasts regional titles, and went the distance with elite opposition (e.g., Akhmadaliev). His experience edge is clear, but age (36 vs. 26), recent losses to similar-level prospects, and short stature make him vulnerable to Parrilla’s power and work rate. Velasquez’s durability is his main asset—he absorbs pressure but has been outclassed lately.

Injury Report
No reported injuries for either fighter. Both successfully made weight at the official weigh-in with no issues noted in press or training updates. The fight is expected to proceed as scheduled with no medical red flags.

FIGHT ODDS

Felix Parrilla                       – 1600

Jose Velasquez                  + 975

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, March 18, 2026

UKGC Appoints Sue Young as Executive Director of Operations

Gaming Editor
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UKGC Appoints Sue Young as Executive Director of Operations

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has appointed Sue Young as its new Executive Director of Operations, adding a seasoned public‑sector leader to its senior team. In this role, Young will oversee several of the regulator’s core operational functions as the Commission continues its work to keep gambling “safer, fairer, and crime‑free.”

Extensive Public‑Sector Background

Announced on 16 March, Young’s appointment was welcomed by the UKGC, which highlighted her substantial leadership experience across major government departments.

Young previously served as Director of Debt Management at HMRC and has held senior roles within the Home Office, including Border Force and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, as well as the Department of Health and Social Care.

Her arrival comes at a pivotal moment for the British gambling sector, with ongoing regulatory reforms and heightened expectations around consumer protection and enforcement.

Young: “Looking Forward to Building on the Work Already Underway”

Young expressed enthusiasm about joining the Commission and stepping into a new industry:

“The Commission plays an important role in protecting consumers and ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and safely. I’m looking forward to building on the significant work already underway across the organization.”

Leadership Welcomes the Appointment

UKGC Acting CEO Sarah Gardner praised Young’s operational expertise and emphasized the value she will bring to the regulator’s mission:

“Sue brings a wealth of operational leadership experience and I’m very much looking forward to working with her.”

Leadership Transition Ahead

Young’s appointment comes as the Commission prepares for a major leadership change. CEO Andrew Rhodes is set to step down on April 30.
A recent Sky News report suggests Rhodes is expected to join Hawkbridge, a newly launched consultancy founded by gaming law specialists including Harris Hagan.

Star Entertainment Weighs $400M Loan from WhiteHawk Capital as Deadline Pressures Mount

Gaming Editor
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Star Entertainment Weighs $400M Loan from WhiteHawk Capital as Deadline Pressures Mount

Star Entertainment is in advanced discussions with U.S. private credit firm WhiteHawk Capital over a potential loan exceeding $400 million, a deal viewed as critical to preventing a breach of the company’s existing lending covenants, according to reporting from the Australian Financial Review.

WhiteHawk Capital Tours Star Properties

Executives from the California‑based lender, including Managing Director Alex Zuckerman, traveled to Australia last week to tour Star’s three casino properties. Newly appointed Star chairman Soo Kim hosted the visit, aiming to give WhiteHawk a clear view of the company’s operational scale and redevelopment potential as it seeks refinancing.

Star has been grappling with a series of financial setbacks, and Kim has publicly criticized what he describes as years of mismanagement. Securing new financing before the end of the month is considered essential to avoid breaching loan terms and to allow the company to refocus on key strategic priorities.

Those priorities include finalizing the sale of Star’s 50% stake in The Star Brisbane to partners Chow Tai Fook and Far East Consortium, and convincing regulators that it is fit to regain its suspended casino license for The Star Sydney. A substantial capital injection from WhiteHawk would bolster those efforts.

Legal and Regulatory Pressures Add to Financial Strain

Star’s challenges extend beyond balance‑sheet issues. The company recently obtained a waiver on loan covenants for the December reporting period, a move that reportedly cost up to AUD 20 million (USD 13.9 million) to secure.

Meanwhile, Star is still awaiting a Federal Court ruling in a civil case brought by AUSTRAC, Australia’s financial crimes regulator, over alleged anti‑money laundering failures. Potential penalties could reach into the hundreds of millions of dollars.

AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas acknowledged that the legal process has been slow but emphasized the seriousness of the allegations. He noted that Star has made significant internal changes since the period in question, but added that the regulator’s statement of claim outlines “extremely serious” breaches, describing the scale and severity of criminal activity within the business as “enormous.”

A Pivotal Moment for Star Entertainment

With refinancing deadlines looming, regulatory scrutiny ongoing, and major asset sales still in progress, Star Entertainment faces a decisive period. A loan from WhiteHawk Capital could provide the breathing room needed to stabilize operations—but only if the deal is finalized in time.

Virginia Lottery Releases February 2026 Casino Activity Report

Gaming Editor
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Virginia Lottery Releases February 2026 Casino Activity Report

The Virginia Lottery has published its February 2026 casino gaming activity report, covering performance across the state’s five operating casinos:
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, Caesars Virginia, The Interim Gaming Hall Norfolk, and Live! Casino & Hotel Petersburg.

February Gaming Revenue

Virginia casinos generated $95.2 million in gaming revenue during the month.

Under state law, casinos pay a graduated tax on adjusted gross revenue (AGR)—defined as wagers minus winnings. In February, operators contributed $17.1 million in taxes to the Gaming Proceeds Fund.

Statutory Tax Distributions

Revenue from the casino AGR tax is allocated to several state and local entities, including:

  • Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund
  • Family and Children’s Trust Fund
  • Host cities
  • Virginia Indigenous People’s Trust Fund, where applicable

For the Bristol property, the host‑city portion is directed to the Regional Improvement Commission (RIC).
The Norfolk casino continues to operate in partnership with the Pamunkey Indian Tribe.

New Jersey iGaming Revenue Climbs in February 2026

Gaming Editor
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New Jersey iGaming Revenue Climbs in February 2026

The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has released February 2026 gaming revenue results, showing continued strength in online casino play despite a dip in sports wagering performance.

iGaming Revenue Continues Double‑Digit Growth

Online gaming win for casinos and their partners reached $251.8 million in February, a 21.2% increase over the $207.8 million reported in February 2025.

Year‑to‑date iGaming revenue totaled $510.7 million, up 18.9% from $429.4 million during the same period last year.

Sports Betting Revenue Declines

Sports wagering gross revenue for casinos, racetracks, and their partners came in at $66.0 million, down 10.3% from $73.6 million in February 2025.

Year‑to‑date sports wagering revenue reached $180.7 million, a 7.7% decrease from $195.8 million reported during the prior year‑to‑date period.

Total Gaming Revenue Up 7.4%

Combined gaming revenue from casinos, racetracks, and their partners totaled $520.8 million in February 2026, reflecting 7.4% growth compared to $484.8 million in February 2025.

Year‑to‑date total gaming revenue reached $1.11 billion, up 6.6% from $1.04 billion during the same period last year.

Tax Contributions

Total gross revenue taxes amounted to:

  • $74.8 million for February 2026
  • $161.3 million year‑to‑date through February

Massachusetts Gaming Commission Unveils PlayWell, Its New Responsible Gaming Program

Gaming Editor
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Massachusetts Gaming Commission Unveils PlayWell, Its New Responsible Gaming Program

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has launched PlayWell, a new statewide responsible gaming and player‑health initiative that will replace the long‑running GameSense program. The rollout marks a major evolution in the Commonwealth’s decade‑long effort to lead the nation in evidence‑based gambling harm prevention.

PlayWell branding will now appear across all Massachusetts casinos and on every regulated sports wagering platform. Patrons can access PlayWell resources in person, online, or by phone, ensuring support is available wherever and whenever players need it.

A Statutory Requirement, Now Fully Owned by the MGC

State law requires the MGC to maintain a responsible gaming program and ensure on‑site access at each casino. Unlike GameSense, PlayWell is wholly owned by the Commission, with day‑to‑day program administration managed by the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health.

“When gaming was legalized in the Commonwealth, it was essential to build a world‑class research, responsible gaming, and player‑health program to ensure the industry’s viability,” said MGC Chair Jordan Maynard. “For over a decade, the Commission has worked with stakeholders, elected leaders, operators, and patrons to build a library of knowledge around gambling harms. Launching this new program—developed, owned, and operated by the MGC—will allow us to have a greater impact on Massachusetts residents in need of support.”

Meeting Players Where They Are

A core goal of PlayWell is accessibility.
At every casino, PlayWell Hubs offer a place for patrons to:

  • Take a break from gambling
  • Learn how games work
  • Speak with trained advisors
  • Access support services and tools

Online and phone‑based resources mirror the same services, ensuring consistent support across all gaming channels.

“PlayWell is designed with the needs of Massachusetts gamblers in mind,” said Mark Vander Linden, MGC Director of Research and Responsible Gaming. “Backed by research and evaluation, PlayWell advisors deliver timely and relevant tips, information, and resources to patrons in the casino or online.”

A New Chapter in Responsible Gaming

With PlayWell, the MGC is positioning itself for the next decade of responsible gaming innovation—one grounded in research, public health, and direct engagement with players.

NFL team transactions report for Tuesday, March 17, 2026

NFL Editor
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NFL team transactions report for Tuesday, March 17, 2026

ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS
FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
ARIZONA
Gibbens, Jack LB Minnesota
INDIANAPOLIS
Towt, Carson TE Notre Dame
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Tomlinson, Dalvin NT Alabama
MIAMI
Sims, Ben TE Baylor
SAN FRANCISCO
Hobbs, Nate DB Illinois
SEATTLE
Pili, Brandon DT Southern California

FREE AGENCY SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS
SIGNINGS: PLAYERS WHOSE CLUBS RETAINED EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS
DALLAS
Steward, Reddy DB Troy
SEATTLE
Holani, George RB Boise State

SIGNING: RESTRICTED FREE AGENT
DALLAS
Bass, T.J. G Oregon – No Offer Sheet Executed

SIGNINGS: UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
ARIZONA
Billings, Andrew DT Baylor – Old Club: CHICAGO
ATLANTA
Hand, Da’Shawn DE Alabama – Old Club: LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Ojulari, Azeez LB Georgia – Old Club: PHILADELPHIA
Zaccheaus, Olamide WR Virginia – Old Club: CHICAGO
CLEVELAND
Avery, Tre DB Rutgers
INDIANAPOLIS
Alie-Cox, Mo TE Virginia Commonwealth
Owens, Jonathan DB Missouri Western – Old Club: CHICAGO
Tillery, Jerry DT Notre Dame – Old Club: KANSAS CITY
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Perryman, Denzel LB Miami
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Stuard, Grant LB Houston – Old Club: DETROIT
NEW ORLEANS
Chandler, Ty RB North Carolina – Old Club: MINNESOTA
Ridgeway, John DT Arkansas
NEW YORK JETS
Okorafor, Chukwuma T Western Michigan
SEATTLE
Igbinoghene, Noah DB Auburn – Old Club: WASHINGTON
TENNESSEE
Adams, Tony DB Illinois – Old Club: NEW YORK JETS
Chestnut, Julius RB Sacred Heart
WASHINGTON
Jefferson, Van WR Florida – Old Club: TENNESSEE

OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS
VISITS
DETROIT
Wonnum, D.J. LB South Carolina
INDIANAPOLIS
Taylor-Britt, Cam DB Nebraska
LAS VEGAS
Burford, Spencer T Texas-San Antonio

NOTE
New Orleans’ Beanie Bishop, DB, West Virginia, has been suspended by the Commissioner for the first three
games of the 2026 season. He is eligible to participate in all preseason activities, including games; his suspension
will take effect as of the roster reduction to 53 players.

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