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MLS Issues Lifetime Bans to Two Players for Insider Betting Violations

Major League Soccer has issued permanent bans to two players after an investigation found they placed wagers on matches involving their own teams, including games in which they played.

Derrick Jones and Yaw Yeboah were both banned for life after the league determined they violated strict prohibitions on insider betting. The findings stemmed from an investigation conducted by Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP into suspicious wagering activity during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Investigation Found Bets on Matches They Played In

Investigators concluded the players placed numerous wagers on MLS matches, including at least one bet involving a yellow card issued to Jones during an October 2024 match between the Columbus Crew and the New York Red Bulls. The league said there is no evidence the betting activity altered match outcomes but called the violations severe.

The probe also suggested the players shared confidential information with outside bettors.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber said the league views integrity as “paramount” and will continue strengthening its policies and education programs. He also reiterated the league’s support for eliminating yellow‑card‑related betting markets nationwide.

Soccer Remains High‑Risk for Betting Manipulation

The bans come as concerns about match manipulation continue to draw global attention. Sportradar’s Integrity in Action 2025 report identified soccer as the sport most affected by suspicious betting activity, with 618 questionable matches flagged out of 1,116 across all sports.

In the United States, integrity worries have fueled renewed calls in Louisiana and other states to restrict or ban micro‑bets and certain prop wagers.

PWHL Game Preview: Boston Fleet (10-3-2-2) vs. Seattle Torrent (4-1-2-9)

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) resumes its high-stakes action with a cross-conference clash between the Boston Fleet and the expansion Seattle Torrent. This matchup pits a top contender against a struggling newcomer, with Boston looking to extend its dominance in the series while Seattle aims to capitalize on home ice for a much-needed upset. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the game details, team analysis, and betting insights.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington. This state-of-the-art facility, home to the Seattle Torrent, has a seating capacity of over 17,000 and has hosted several high-attendance PWHL games this season, including a sellout crowd of 17,335 for Seattle’s post-Olympics return on February 27.

The arena’s vibrant atmosphere could provide a boost for the home team, especially with promotional giveaways like the Cayla Barnes bobblehead planned for this matchup.

  • Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET)
  • Broadcast: FOX 13+ (local in Seattle), TSN (Canada), NESN/Prime Video/YouTube (select markets)

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with significant absences, particularly Seattle, which has been hit hard by post-Olympic injuries to key veterans.

Boston Fleet Injuries:

  • Zoe Boyd (D): On long-term injured reserve (LTIR) with a lower-body injury sustained in practice.
  • Sophie Shirley (F): On LTIR (undisclosed injury).
  • Olivia Mobley (F): On LTIR (undisclosed).
  • Riley Brengman (D): Recently returned from an upper-body injury and is expected to play after missing time earlier in the season.
  • Hadley Hartmetz (D): Progressing in rehab from a knee injury but remains day-to-day and unlikely to suit up.

Boston’s depth has helped mitigate these losses, with recent activations like Brengman bolstering the blue line.

Seattle Torrent Injuries:

  • Hannah Bilka (F): Placed on LTIR with an upper-body injury sustained during the Olympics; out for the remainder of the season. Bilka had 4 goals and 5 assists in 14 games.
  • Hilary Knight (F/Captain): On LTIR with a torn MCL (lower-body) from the Olympics; a massive blow as she contributed 10 points in 14 games pre-break.
  • Aneta Tejralová (D): Day-to-day with a lower-body injury.
  • Jenna Buglioni (F): Day-to-day with an upper-body injury.

Seattle has signed rookie Jada Habisch to fill Bilka’s roster spot, but the absence of stars like Knight and Bilka severely hampers their offense.

Key Player Matchups

This game features intriguing battles between Boston’s balanced attack and Seattle’s resilient but depleted roster. Here are the top matchups to watch:

  1. Aerin Frankel (BOS, G) vs. Corinne Schroeder (SEA, G): A goaltending duel could decide the outcome. Frankel leads the PWHL with a 1.25 GAA and has been unbeatable in recent outings, including a 35-save shutout performance in their last meeting.

Schroeder has been solid for Seattle, making 20+ saves in tight losses, but she’ll face pressure from Boston’s high-shot volume.

  • Megan Keller (BOS, D) vs. Alex Carpenter (SEA, F): Keller, Boston’s captain and Olympic hero, has been a scoring threat from the blue line (5 goals this season) and will aim to shut down Carpenter, Seattle’s top point producer (12 points).

Expect physical play, as Keller’s defensive prowess could neutralize Carpenter’s speed.

  • Alina Müller (BOS, F) vs. Jessie Eldridge (SEA, F): Müller (6 assists) anchors Boston’s playmaking, often setting up power-play goals.

Eldridge, with 13 points and recent power-play success (including two PPGs vs. Ottawa), will look to exploit any gaps in Boston’s penalty kill.

  • Abby Newhook (BOS, F) vs. Julia Gosling (SEA, F): Newhook’s speed and assists (e.g., on Keller’s goals) will test Gosling, who has 5 goals for Seattle and tied a recent game late.

Boston’s depth gives them an edge, but Seattle’s home crowd could energize underdogs like Eldridge.

Recent Team Forms

Boston enters on a hot streak, winning five straight games, including tight defensive battles. Seattle has struggled post-Olympics, dropping three of their last four.

Recent Games (Last 5)Boston FleetSeattle Torrent
Most RecentW 2-1 OT @ VAN (Mar 10) apnews.comL 3-4 @ OTT (Mar 4)
PreviousW 1-0 @ NY (Mar 5) thepwhl.comL 2-5 vs TOR (Feb 27)
PreviousW 3-2 SO @ OTT (Feb 28) thepwhl.comL 1-2 SO vs BOS (Jan 18)
PreviousW 4-3 SO vs NY (Jan 28) thepwhl.comL 2-4 @ OTT (Jan 28)
PreviousW 2-1 vs SEA (Jan 7) thepwhl.comL 1-3 @ VAN (Jan 25)

Boston’s form: WWWWW (streak of low-scoring wins). Seattle’s form: LLLWL (winless in three).

Series History

Boston has dominated the all-time series, winning all three meetings this season by slim margins:

  • Dec 21, 2025: Boston 3-1 @ Seattle
  • Jan 7, 2026: Boston 2-1 vs Seattle
  • Jan 18, 2026: Boston 2-1 SO @ Seattle

Overall H2H: Boston 3-0-0-0 vs. Seattle. Games have been low-scoring (average 3.67 goals), with Boston’s defense shining.

GAME ODDS

Boston Fleet                      – 150

Seattle Torrent                  4.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, March 10, 2026

2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Deportivo Toluca FC vs. San Diego FC

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The CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 features an intriguing first-leg matchup between expansion side San Diego FC and Liga MX powerhouse Deportivo Toluca FC. This is the first competitive meeting between the two clubs, with San Diego hosting the opener in what promises to be a high-energy clash. Toluca, as back-to-back Liga MX champions (Apertura winners and strong Clausura performers), enter as favorites, but San Diego’s unbeaten start to 2026 and home advantage at Snapdragon Stadium could make it competitive.

Venue Location

Snapdragon Stadium
2101 Stadium Way, San Diego, CA 92108, USA
This state-of-the-art 35,000-capacity venue is San Diego FC’s home ground, known for its modern design, excellent sightlines, and vibrant atmosphere since opening in 2025. It has quickly become a fortress for the club in its early seasons.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:30 PM PT (11:30 PM ET)
Broadcast: FS2 (English), TUDN (Spanish), Concacaf Go (streaming), OneSoccer (Canada). Confirm closer to matchday for any changes.

Weather Updates

Forecast for game time in San Diego: Clear skies with temperatures around 62°F (17°C) at kickoff, cooling slightly overnight. Light winds from the west at 5-10 mph, low humidity (~50%), and 0% chance of precipitation. Ideal conditions for soccer—fast pitch, no rain concerns, and comfortable for fans in the open-air stadium.

Injury Report

San Diego FC

  • Out: Limited reports; no major long-term absences noted recently. Monitor any late knocks from recent MLS matches.
  • Questionable: Potential minor issues for key players like Anders Dreyer’s squad depth tested in early season; specific names pending final team news.
  • Suspended: None reported.
  • Notes: San Diego has maintained a clean defensive sheet in 2026 MLS play so far, suggesting good health overall.

Deportivo Toluca FC

  • Out: No confirmed long-term injuries; Toluca’s squad is generally healthy entering the tie.
  • Questionable: Monitor fitness of stars like Alexis Vega (recent form strong but any knocks) and others from Liga MX schedule.
  • Suspended: None reported.
  • Notes: Toluca’s depth includes Mexican internationals; expect near-full strength lineup.

Key Player Matchups

This matchup pits San Diego’s emerging talent against Toluca’s experienced Liga MX stars. Key battles could swing the tie.

MatchupSan Diego FC PlayerDeportivo Toluca FC PlayerKey Insight
Attacking Midfield DuelKey creative midfielder (e.g., potential U.S. talents)Alexis Vega (TOL – winger/forward, pace & finishing)Vega’s dribbling and goals threat vs. San Diego’s midfield control.
Forward vs. DefenseLeading striker (e.g., recent MLS scorers)Brian García / defendersSan Diego’s attack vs. Toluca’s organized backline; set pieces crucial.
Star Forward BattleDavid Vázquez (SD – goal threat)Jean Meneses / othersVázquez’s opportunism vs. Toluca’s counter-attacking speed.
Wing PlaySpeedy wingersClaudio Baeza / midfield anchorsFlanks key; San Diego exploiting home crowd vs. Toluca’s transitions.
Midfield AnchorDefensive midfielderMarcel Ruiz (TOL – engine)Battle for possession; whoever wins midfield dictates tempo.

Toluca’s experience gives them an edge, but San Diego’s home energy could level it.

Recent Team Forms

San Diego FC

  • Recent MLS: Unbeaten streak, clean sheets.
  • CONCACAF: Strong Round 1 win over Pumas UNAM. Form: W-W-D-W (solid defensively, building momentum).

Deportivo Toluca FC

  • Liga MX: Multiple wins, high-scoring games.
  • Recent: Unbeaten run into Champions Cup. Form: W-W-W-D-W (championship pedigree showing).

Series History

No prior meetings between San Diego FC and Deportivo Toluca FC. This is their first-ever competitive encounter. No historical trends; expect a fresh, tactical battle with Toluca’s experience vs. San Diego’s home debut in this stage.

Betting Trends

  • Over/Under Trends: Toluca games often high-scoring (60% over 2.5); San Diego defensive (under in recent).
  • Moneyline Trends: San Diego strong at home; Toluca solid away in internationals.
  • ATS Trends: Toluca covers as slight favorites; San Diego +0.5 value at home.
  • Other: BTTS in 50% of Toluca’s recent; expect goals but cautious first leg.

MATCH ODDS

Deportivo Toluca FC        + 140

San Diego FC                      + 180

Draw                                     + 250

Over 2.5 – 110                   Under 2.5 – 110

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, March 10, 2026

2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Mt. Pleasant vs. Los Angeles Galaxy

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The CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 features a first-leg clash between LA Galaxy and Mount Pleasant FA. This marks the first-ever meeting between the MLS powerhouse and the Jamaican Premier League champions, with LA Galaxy entering as heavy favorites despite recent inconsistencies. Mount Pleasant faces significant challenges, including visa issues impacting their squad.

Venue Location

Dignity Health Sports Park
18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746, USA
This 27,000-capacity venue is LA Galaxy’s home ground, renowned for its intimate atmosphere and history of hosting major MLS and international matches since 2003.

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET)
Broadcast: FS2, TUDN (confirmations pending closer to matchday).

Weather Updates

Forecast for game time in Carson, CA: Partly cloudy with highs of 68°F (20°C) during the day, dropping to 62°F (17°C) by kickoff. Southwest winds at 10-15 mph, humidity around 65%, and a 10% chance of light rain. Conditions favor open play, but wind may influence crosses and long passes. No major disruptions expected for fans or players.

Injury Report

Mount Pleasant FA

  • Out: Up to 10 players due to visa denials for U.S. entry (specific names not confirmed, but impacts senior squad depth significantly).
  • Questionable: Earl Dennis (recent injury recovery, fitness monitoring).
  • Suspended: None reported.
  • Notes: Visa woes severely hamper Mount Pleasant’s lineup, forcing reliance on youth or reserves; could limit their attacking options.

LA Galaxy

  • Out: Chris Rindov (leg injury – mid-March return); Emiro Garcés (foot injury – mid-March return); Marco Reus (knee injury – early May return); John Nelson (thigh injury – mid-April return); M. Cuevas (knee injury – mid-May return); Lucas Sanabria (collarbone injury – unclear).
  • Questionable: Joseph Paintsil (unspecified injury from March 7 match – status pending); Gabriel Pec (potential suspension check post-red card in MLS).
  • Suspended: Gabriel Pec (red card in March 7 MLS game – confirm if carries over to CONCACAF).
  • Notes: Paintsil’s potential absence weakens the attack; defense remains solid but depth tested.

Key Player Matchups

This tie pits LA Galaxy’s star-laden attack against Mount Pleasant’s resilient defense, though visa issues may tilt the balance. Key battles could define the outcome.

MatchupMount Pleasant FA PlayerLA Galaxy PlayerKey Insight
Forward vs. DefenseDevante Campbell (MP – forward, clinical finisher)Maya Yoshida (LAG – center-back, organizational leader)Campbell’s pace on counters vs. Yoshida’s experience; Galaxy’s backline must stay compact.
Midfield BattleLadale Richie (MP – midfielder, recovery specialist)Riqui Puig (LAG – creative midfielder, if fit)Richie’s interceptions vs. Puig’s vision; control of midfield tempo crucial.
Wing ThreatKimoni Bailey (MP – winger, speedster)Joseph Paintsil (LAG – winger, if available)Bailey’s dribbling vs. Paintsil’s flair; flanks could produce goals if spaces open.
Striker DuelDaniel Green (MP – striker, goal threat)João Klauss (LAG – forward, brace in recent win)Green’s opportunism vs. Klauss’s clinical finishing; set pieces key.
Defensive AnchorSue-Lae McCalla (MP – defender)Edwin Cerrillo (LAG – midfielder, shield)McCalla’s clearances vs. Cerrillo’s distribution; transition play pivotal.

Galaxy’s quality should prevail, but Mount Pleasant’s underdog spirit could surprise.

Recent Team Forms

Mount Pleasant FA

  • March 1: Tivoli Gardens 1-1 MP (JPL) – Draw.
  • Feb 25: MP 4-1 Harbour View (JPL) – Win.
  • Feb 15: MP 0-0 Treasure Beach (JPL) – Draw.
  • Feb 10: Harbour View 1-0 MP (JPL) – Loss.
  • Dec 2: Won Caribbean Cup final. Form: D-W-D-L-W (unbeaten in last 3 league games).

LA Galaxy

  • March 7: Colorado Rapids 4-1 LAG (MLS) – Loss.
  • Feb 28: LAG 3-0 Charlotte FC (MLS) – Win.
  • Feb 25: LAG 0-0 Sporting San Miguelito (CCC Leg 2) – Draw (advanced on away goals).
  • Feb 22: LAG 1-1 NYCFC (MLS) – Draw.
  • Feb 18: LAG 1-1 SSM (CCC Leg 1) – Draw. Form: L-W-D-D-D (one win in last five across competitions).

Series History

No prior meetings between LA Galaxy and Mount Pleasant FA. This is their inaugural matchup, with no historical data for trends. Average goals in Galaxy’s recent CCC games: 0.5 per match; Mount Pleasant averaged 2.4 in Caribbean Cup.

Betting Trends

  • Over/Under Trends: Galaxy games average 3.3 goals (70% over 2.5); Mount Pleasant’s 2.0 (40% over 2.5). Expect moderate scoring—over 2.5 cashed in 60% of Galaxy’s home games.
  • Moneyline Trends: Galaxy unbeaten at home in 2026 (1-0-1); Mount Pleasant strong away in qualifiers (2-1-1).
  • ATS Trends: Galaxy covers as home favorites 50%; Mount Pleasant as underdogs 60% in internationals.
  • Other: BTTS in 40% of Galaxy’s matches; low in Mount Pleasant’s (30%). Trends suggest Galaxy dominance but potential for a low-scoring affair given Mount Pleasant’s defensive setup.

MATCH ODDS

Mt. Pleasant                      + 700

Los Angeles Galaxy         – 300

Draw                                     + 400

Over 2.5 – 115                   Under 2.5 – 105

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, March 10, 2026

2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Inter Miami FC vs. Nashville SC

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The CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 kicks off with a compelling first-leg matchup between Inter Miami CF and Nashville SC. This rivalry has produced thrilling encounters in recent years, with Inter Miami holding the upper hand historically. Both teams enter in strong early-season form, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle at GEODIS Park.

Venue Location

GEODIS Park
501 Benton Ave, Nashville, TN 37204, USA
This 30,000-capacity stadium is Nashville SC’s home fortress, known for its electric atmosphere and modern amenities. It’s hosted several high-profile MLS and international matches since opening in 2022.

Kickoff is scheduled for

6:30 PM CT (7:30 PM ET)
Broadcast: FS2, TUDN (subject to confirmation closer to matchday).

Weather Updates

Forecast for game time in Nashville: Mostly sunny with a high of 75°F (24°C) during the day, cooling to around 70°F (21°C) by kickoff. Winds from the southwest at 15-17 mph, with 58-62% humidity and a low 15% chance of precipitation. Conditions should be ideal for fast-paced soccer, though the wind could affect long balls and set pieces. Expect comfortable viewing for fans, with no major weather disruptions anticipated.

Injury Report

Nashville SC

  • Out: Chris Applewhite (leg injury – expected return mid-March).
  • Questionable: Sam Surridge (illness – recently recovered and started vs. Minnesota, but monitor fitness); Xavier Valdez (illness – mid-March return); Charles-Emile Brunet (illness – mid-March return).
  • Suspended: None reported.
  • Notes: Nashville’s attack could be at full strength if Surridge shakes off any lingering effects, but depth in midfield might be tested.

Inter Miami CF

  • Out: Sergio Reguilón (knee injury – late March return); Luis Suárez (leg injury – mid-March return).
  • Questionable: David Ayala (personal reasons – recently returned to training); Mateo Silvetti (potential injury from recent match – status unclear).
  • Suspended: None reported.
  • Notes: Miami’s defense is thinned without Reguilón, and Suárez’s absence could force reliance on Lionel Messi and Germán Berterame up top.

Key Player Matchups

This matchup features star power on both sides, with attacking flair likely to decide the tie. Here’s a breakdown of pivotal battles:

MatchupNashville SC PlayerInter Miami CF PlayerKey Insight
Attacking Midfield DuelHany Mukhtar (NSH – 1 goal, creative hub)Rodrigo De Paul (MIA – 1 goal, midfield engine)Mukhtar’s vision vs. De Paul’s tenacity; whoever controls the center could dictate tempo.
Forward vs. DefenseSam Surridge (NSH – 4 goals in 2 MLS games)Jack Maher/Walker Zimmerman (NSH defenders vs. MIA attack)Surridge’s hot streak faces Miami’s makeshift backline; expect Zimmerman to shadow Messi.
Star Forward BattleLionel Messi (MIA – 2 goals, including free-kick magic)Walker Zimmerman (NSH – defensive leader)Messi’s dribbling and set-piece threat vs. Zimmerman’s aerial dominance and organization.
Wing PlayCristian Espinoza (NSH – 1 goal, crossing threat)Facundo Mura (MIA – right-back)Espinoza’s pace could exploit Miami’s left side, especially without Reguilón.
Midfield AnchorPatrick Yazbek (NSH – recovering from injury)Yannick Bright (MIA – high pass accuracy)Yazbek’s recovery balls vs. Bright’s distribution; key for transition play.

These matchups highlight Miami’s attacking depth against Nashville’s solid home defense.

Recent Team Forms

Nashville SC

  • March 7: NSH 3-1 Minnesota United (MLS) – Surridge brace.
  • Feb 28: FC Dallas 0-0 NSH (MLS) – Clean sheet away.
  • Feb 24: NSH 5-0 Atlético Ottawa (CCC Leg 2) – Dominant win.
  • Feb 17: Atlético Ottawa 0-2 NSH (CCC Leg 1) – Pacius, Surridge goals. Form: W-D-W-W (unbeaten in 5 across all comps).

Inter Miami CF

  • March 7: D.C. United 1-2 MIA (MLS) – De Paul, Messi goals.
  • March 1: Orlando City 2-4 MIA (MLS) – Comeback win.
  • Feb 21: LAFC 3-0 MIA (MLS) – Season-opening loss.
  • Feb 26: Independiente del Valle 1-2 MIA (Friendly) – Preseason tune-up. Form: W-W-L-W (scoring freely but defensive vulnerabilities).

Series History

Inter Miami leads the all-time series 9-5-5 (W-L-D) across 19 meetings since 2020. Recent games favor Miami, with 4 wins in the last 5 (including playoffs). Nashville’s last victory was a 2-1 MLS win in November 2025. Goals average 3.0 per game, with 79% over 1.5 and 58% over 2.5. At GEODIS Park, Nashville is 2-2-2 vs. Miami.

Betting Trends

  • Over/Under Trends: 58% of head-to-head games hit over 2.5 goals; Miami’s last 3 games averaged 4.0 goals, Nashville’s 3.3. Expect goals—over 2.5 has cashed in 85% of Miami’s recent matches.
  • Moneyline Trends: Miami has won 83% of recent H2H (5/6); Nashville is unbeaten at home in 2026 (2-0-1 across comps).
  • ATS Trends: Nashville covers as home underdogs in 60% of spots; Miami is 2-1 ATS this season.
  • Other: Both teams to score (BTTS) in 60% of H2H; Miami games see BTTS 65% of the time. These trends point to a high-scoring affair, with Miami’s attack overpowering but Nashville’s home form keeping it close.

MATCH ODDS

Inter Miami FC                  + 120

Nashville SC                       + 205

Draw                                     + 265

Over 2.5 – 110                   Under 2.5 – 110

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, March 10, 2026

WSOP, Turning Stone to Launch 2026 Circuit Tournament With $2.5 Million in Guarantees

Turning Stone Resort Casino in Upstate New York will host the state’s only World Series of Poker (WSOP) Circuit event beginning this month, drawing thousands of players from across North America to compete for more than $2.5 million in guaranteed payouts, 18 WSOP Circuit rings, and seats in the $1 million WSOP Tournament of Champions in Las Vegas this summer.

The resort will hold a welcome event to officially open the 2026 WSOP Circuit stop and mark the fifth year the tournament has been held at Turning Stone, which has become a key Northeast venue for the global poker brand.

Growing Tournament Footprint

Turning Stone is the only property in New York to host a WSOP Circuit series. Since debuting the event in 2022, the casino has awarded more than $22 million in total winnings. Organizers expect this year’s edition to be the largest yet, with the potential to set new payout records for the property.

Registration Details

Registration for each day’s events will open on March 12, ahead of the first scheduled tournament of the day.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Luka Dončić fined

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NEW YORK – Los Angeles Lakers forward-guard Luka Dončić has been fined $50,000 for directing an inappropriate and unprofessional gesture toward a game official, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.

The incident occurred with 4:35 remaining in the third quarter of the Lakers’ 110-97 victory over the New York Knicks on March 8 at Crypto.com Arena.

NHL Morning Skate – March 10, 2026

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NHL Morning Skate – March 10, 2026

* While Adrian Kempe matched a pair of Kings franchise records, the trio of Brian DumoulinArtemi Panarin and Scott Laughton continued their notable first impressions during their first season with Los Angeles as the club moved within striking distance of a Wild Card spot in the Western Conference.

* The Capitals scored seven goals in a win and were led by rookie Justin Sourdif (1-2—3), while Mika Zibanejad (2-1—3) factored on half of New York’s goals and climbed multiple franchise lists.

* An NHL on TNT doubleheader highlights a busy 13-game Tuesday when Brayden Schenn makes his return to St. Louis just days after being traded to the Islanders, then Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon go head-to-head in a battle between the League’s top two scorers this season.
 

FIRST-YEAR FACES CONTINUE TO LEAVE THEIR MARK FOR LOS ANGELES
Brian Dumoulin (1-2—3), Artemi Panarin (1-1—2) and Scott Laughton (1-1—2) are in the midst of their first season with the Kings – with the former Rangers and Maple Leafs forwards joining the franchise following the Olympic break – and continued to make an impact for Los Angeles as the club withstood Columbus’ third-period rally before Adrian Kempe matched the franchise record for career overtime goals (11) and overtime goals in a single season (4). The Kings (26-23-14, 66 points) moved within one point of the idle Kraken (29-24-9, 67 points) for the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference; Seattle owns a game in hand.   

Did You Know? The difference between Wild Card 2 and the first team outside the Western Conference bracket has been four points or less for the entirety of 2025-26.

* The Kings and Blue Jackets traded 2-0 and 3-2 leads before Dumoulin (1-2—3) scored a go-ahead goal in the third period to register his second career three-point game (1-2—3 on Jan. 21, 2022) – also in Columbus. He became the second defenseman in the past 15 years to record each of his first two career three-point games against the same franchise, following Rostislav Klesla (2 GP vs. NSH).

* Panarin has been a regular on the Kings’ score sheet since debuting with the club on Feb. 25 and boosted his totals with the franchise to 2-6—8 (7 GP). He is one of six Los Angeles skaters with eight or more points through their first seven games with the franchise and first since Ryan Smyth (9 in 2009-10).

* Laughton, with 1-0—1 against the Canadiens on Saturday, became the fifth player since 1999-00 to score in each of his first two games with the Kings alongside Andreas Athanasiou (3 GP in 2020-21), Carl Grundstrom (2 GP in 2018-19), Brian Boyle (2 GP in 2007-08) and Derek Armstrong (2 GP in 2002-03).

HIGH-SCORING OFFENSES POWER CAPITALS, RANGERS TO VICTORY
The Capitals scored seven goals, led by rookie Justin Sourdif (1-2—3), while Mika Zibanejad (2-1—3) factored on half of the Rangers’ six goals as both clubs found the win column. With its victory, Washington (32-26-7, 71 points) moved within five points of idle Boston (35-22-6, 76 points) for the second Wild Card in the Eastern Conference.

* Sourdif, who earlier this season tied Washington’s rookie record for points in a game (3-2—5 on Jan. 5), became the fifth Capitals rookie in the past 40 years with multiple three-point games in a campaign. He joined Alex Ovechkin (8 in 2005-06), Nicklas Backstrom (7 in 2007-08), Pat Peake (2 in 1993-94) and Michal Pivonka (2 in 1986-87). Fellow rookie Ryan Leonard also scored Monday and combined with Sourdif to produce the first season since 1990-91 (Peter Bondra & Dmitri Khristich) to feature multiple Capitals rookies each having at least a dozen.

* Zibanejad climbed several all-time Rangers lists with his three-point performance: passed James Patrick (237)for the third-most power-play points in New York history, passed Ron Greschner (300) for the seventh-most road points in franchise history and tied Chris Kreider (41) for the seventh-most multi-goal games in Rangers history. The victory also marked Igor Shesterkin’s fifth career 20-win season, which tied John Vanbiesbrouck for the fifth most in franchise history, behind Henrik Lundqvist (13), Mike Richter (10), Eddie Giacomin (8) and Gump Worsley (7).

SENATORS BLANK CANUCKS TO CLIMB EASTERN CONFERENCE STANDINGS

James Reimer turned aside all 16 shots he faced as the Senators (32-22-9, 73 points) won their third straight game, improved to 9-1-2 in their past 12 contests and moved within three points of the idle Bruins (35-22-6, 76 points) for the second Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. Ottawa is the seventh franchise the 37-year-old has posted a shutout with, alongside the Maple Leafs, Sharks, Panthers, Hurricanes, Red Wings and Sabres.

GUENTHER’S 30TH GOAL HELPS MAMMOTH EARN POINT IN #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES

Dylan Guenther’s 30th goal of the season was one of two Mammoth tallies at United Center as Utah (34-25-5, 73 points) salvaged a point against Chicago and opened up a six-point cushion on idle Seattle (29-24-9, 67 points) for the first Wild Card position in the Western Conference. Guenther, who hopes to bring the Stanley Cup Playoffs to the NHL’s newest franchise for the first time, became the Mammoth’s second 30-goal scorer in as many seasons to start their NHL tenure (Clayton Keller: 30 in 2024-25). Click here for more storylines from the Monday edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates.


QUICK CLICKS

Mark ScheifeleMartin Necas and Tage Thompson named the NHL’s “Three Stars” for the week

NHL EDGE stats behind Sabres-Lightning 8-7 thriller

Brandon Hagel fined maximum for serving as aggressor in Lightning game

Auston Matthews swaps Olympic jerseys with basketball star Jason Kidd

Women in Hockey feature on Rachel Schuldt, executive director of the Minnesota Wild Foundation

McDAVID, MacKINNON GO HEAD-TO-HEAD DURING 13-GAME SLATE

A showdown between the NHL’s top two scorers highlights a 13-game slate when Connor McDavid (35-73—108 in 64 GP) and the Oilers visit Nathan MacKinnon (43-61—104 in 61 GP) and the Avalanche on national broadcasts in the U.S. (TNT, HBO MAX, truTV) and Canada (Sportsnet, TVA Sports). The schedule also includes Islanders deadline addition Brayden Schenn making his return to St. Louis (TNT, HBO MAX, truTV) as well as the Atlantic Division-leading Sabres looking to extend their winning streak to eight games.


* It could be a milestone week for McDavid (396-794—1,190 in 776 GP), who is within striking distance of three different benchmarks. The Oilers captain can become the third-fastest player in NHL history to record 1,200 points (Wayne Gretzky:504 GP & Mario Lemieux:593 GP), the third fastest to reach 800 assists (Gretzky: 527 GP & Lemieux: 661 GP) and the fifth-fastest active skater to 400 goals (fastest: Auston Matthews in 628 GP).


* MacKinnon has posted four points in each of his past two contests against the Oilers, including 2-2—4 in their previous meeting this season (Nov. 8, 2025). MacKinnon can become the second player in NHL history to record three straight four-point performances versus Edmonton, following franchise legend Joe Sakic (3 GP from Feb. 19 – Oct. 15, 1996).


* In the first game of a doubleheader on TNT, Schenn will make his return to St. Louis just four days after being acquired by the Islanders from the Blues. The former Blues captain has 90-149—239 in 329 career games at Enterprise Center – the seventh-highest point total by any skater at the venue, and the third highest among active players behind Vladimir Tarasenko (140-144—284 in 322 GP) and David Perron (98-143—241 in 347 GP).

* The Sabres, who overtook the Lightning for top spot in the Atlantic following their 15-goal thriller Sunday, occupy first place in their division at this stage of a season or later for the first time since the conclusion of the 2009-10 campaign. Buffalo owns the NHL’s longest active winning streak at seven games and can record multiple eight-game runs in the same season for the first time in franchise history (also 10 GP from Dec. 9-31, 2025).

NFL team transactions report for Monday, March 9, 2026

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WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS
TERMINATIONS OF VESTED VETERANS
ATLANTA

Hodge, KhaDarel WR Prairie View (8)* PS: VET – Failed Physical
Mooney, Darnell WR Tulane (6)* PS: VET
BUFFALO
Jackson, Dane DB Pittsburgh (5)* PS: VET
Rapp, Taylor DB Washington (7)* PS: VET – Failed Physical
Samuel, Curtis WR Ohio State (9)* PS: VET
DETROIT
Decker, Taylor T Ohio State (10)* PS: VET
LAS VEGAS
Cappa, Alex G Humboldt State (8)* PS: VET
MINNESOTA
Kelly, Ryan C Alabama (10)* PS: VET
*Indicates player’s accrued seasons at end of 2025 season.

RESERVE LIST ADDITION
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Williams, Darious DB Alabama-Birmingham – Reserve/R

NBA team transactions report for Monday, March 9, 2026

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Utah Jazz waived guard Vince Williams Jr..