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NHL Game Preview: Vancouver Canucks (18-35-7) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (23-28-10)

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NHL Game Preview: Vancouver Canucks (18-35-7) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (23-28-10)

The Vancouver Canucks seek to end a seven-game losing streak and a nine-game road skid as they face the Chicago Blackhawks in a cross-conference matchup. Vancouver, last in the Pacific Division with the NHL’s worst record, has been plagued by injuries and defensive woes (3.7 GPG allowed recently). Chicago, seventh in the Central and battling for a playoff spot, aims to rebound from a 3-2 OT loss to Winnipeg while leveraging home-ice advantage (12-14-5 at United Center). This is the second meeting this season; Chicago won the first 5-2 on November 5, 2025. With key injuries on both sides—Vancouver without their starting goalie and Chicago monitoring new acquisitions—expect a low-scoring affair where Chicago’s depth could prevail.

Venue Location

United Center, Chicago, Illinois. This 20,960-seat arena has been the Blackhawks’ home since 1994, where Chicago allows 3.1 GPG this season.

Puck drop is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT). Broadcast on ESPN+, CHSN, SNP; stream via NHL Network.

Injury Report

Vancouver is decimated, especially in goal and defense, while Chicago manages minor absences and integrates new players.

TeamPlayerPositionStatusInjury/Details
CanucksThatcher DemkoGOut for SeasonHip (long-term IR; shut down since January)
CanucksPierre-Olivier JosephDOutUpper Body (IR; expected 2-3 weeks)
CanucksEvander KaneLWQuestionableIllness (game-time decision)
CanucksDerek ForbortDOutUndisclosed (long-term IR)
CanucksFilip ChytilCOutFace (IR; expected September 2026)
BlackhawksTeuvo TeravainenCDay-to-DayUndisclosed (aggravated pre-existing; questionable)
BlackhawksAndrew MangiapaneLWQuestionableTrade Pending/Visa (availability depends on visa processing)
BlackhawksWyatt KaiserDOutLower Body (IR; retroactive to February 4)

Vancouver’s Quinn Hughes took maintenance but is probable; Chicago’s Connor Bedard is healthy post-shoulder.

Key Player Matchups

Chicago’s rebuilding offense (2.6 GPG, 28th) faces Vancouver’s leaky defense (3.7 GPG allowed), but the Canucks’ scoring drought (2.5 GPG recently) could hinder. Special teams: Vancouver PK 70% (bottom) vs. Chicago PP mid-80s.

  • Connor Bedard (CHI) vs. Elias Pettersson (VAN): Bedard (young star, multi-point potential) exploits Vancouver’s weak PK; Pettersson (19:22 TOI/G) drives Canucks’ attack in a battle of top centers.
  • Philipp Kurashev (CHI) vs. Brock Boeser (VAN): Kurashev (anytime point threat) vs. Boeser (scoring wing); key for secondary offense.
  • Arvid Soderblom (CHI) vs. Kevin Lankinen (VAN): Soderblom (backup role) vs. Lankinen (.897 SV%); goaltending duel amid VAN’s Demko absence.
  • Teuvo Teravainen (CHI, if active) vs. Conor Garland (VAN): Teravainen’s versatility vs. Garland’s speed; perimeter matchup could swing transitions.
  • Other Notes: Chicago leans on Jason Dickinson (two-way); Vancouver’s Quinn Hughes (if active) anchors D, but injuries thin blue line.

Recent Team Forms

Vancouver is 0-7 in their last 7, averaging 2.5 GPG while allowing 3.7. They’ve lost by 20+ in multiple recent games.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 4vs CarolinaL4-6
Mar 2at TorontoL0-5
Feb 28vs EdmontonL1-4
Feb 26at CalgaryL2-5
Feb 24vs SeattleL3-4 OT
Feb 22at EdmontonL1-3
Feb 20vs AnaheimL2-4
Feb 18at SeattleW3-2
Feb 16vs Los AngelesL1-4
Feb 14at VegasL0-3

Chicago is 2-9 in their last 11, but 2-7 at home recently, allowing 3.1 GPG.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 4vs WinnipegL OT2-3
Mar 2at ColoradoL1-5
Feb 28vs NashvilleL2-4
Feb 26at WinnipegW4-3
Feb 24vs ColumbusW5-2
Feb 22at NashvilleL1-3
Feb 20vs St. LouisW4-1
Feb 18at MinnesotaL2-4
Feb 16vs PittsburghW3-2 SO
Feb 14at ColumbusL1-4

Series History

Vancouver leads the all-time regular-season series slightly, but recent: VAN 9-1-0 last 10 vs CHI, including 7-0 last 7 road vs CHI. Chicago won this season’s opener 5-2. In playoffs, CHI leads 3-2 series (last: 2011 QF, VAN won 4-3). Over in 8 of VAN’s last 9 vs CHI.

Betting Trends

  • ATS Trends: Blackhawks 3-2 ATS last 5; Canucks 0-4 ATS during skid, but 9-1 ATS last 10 vs CHI.
  • O/U Trends: Canucks over in 8/13; Blackhawks under in 6/10. Head-to-head over in 8/9.

Game Odds

Vancouver Canucks         5.5

Chicago Blackhawks       – 155

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, March 5, 2026

NHL Game Preview: Colorado Avalanche (41-10-9) vs. Dallas Stars (38-14-9)

NHL Editor
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NHL Game Preview: Colorado Avalanche (41-10-9) vs. Dallas Stars (38-14-9)

The Colorado Avalanche, owners of the NHL’s best record and riding a three-game win streak, head to Dallas for a Central Division showdown against the streaking Stars, who aim to extend their franchise-record 10-game winning streak. Colorado’s high-octane offense (3.82 GPG, 1st) faces Dallas’ stingy defense (2.66 GAA, 7th), in a potential playoff preview between the division’s top two teams. This is the second of four meetings this season; Dallas won the opener 5-4 in a shootout on October 11, 2025. With injuries impacting both sides—particularly Dallas’ forward depth—expect Nathan MacKinnon’s playmaking to clash with Jason Robertson’s scoring in a high-stakes battle.

Venue Location

American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas. This 18,532-seat arena has been the Stars’ home since 2001, where Dallas is 18-7-3 this season, allowing 2.8 GPG defensively.

Puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET (5:00 p.m. PT). Broadcast on Victory+, ALT; stream via ESPN+.

Injury Report

Both teams are navigating forward injuries, with Dallas hit harder up front. Colorado could see returns but remains cautious with depth pieces.

TeamPlayerPositionStatusInjury/Details
AvalancheArtturi LehkonenLWOutUpper Body (expected return Mar 10)
AvalancheLogan O’ConnorRWOutHip (expected return Mar 22)
AvalancheJoel KivirantaLWOutConcussion (expected return Mar 8)
StarsRoope HintzCIRIllness (expected return Mar 6)
StarsTyler MyersDDay-To-DayNot Injury Related (expected return Mar 6)
StarsMikko RantanenRWIRLower Body (expected return Mar 21)
StarsTyler SeguinCIR-LTACL (out for season)
StarsRadek FaksaCIRUpper Body (expected return Mar 14)

Dallas’ absences weaken their top-six scoring, while Colorado’s depth forwards are sidelined but core intact.

Key Player Matchups

Colorado’s league-leading offense (3.82 GPG) tests Dallas’ solid goaltending (2.66 GAA), but the Stars’ 10-game streak features balanced contributions. Special teams loom large: Avalanche PP 15.4% (32nd) vs. Stars PK 80.6% (20th).

  • Nathan MacKinnon (COL) vs. Jason Robertson (DAL): MacKinnon (41 G, 59 A, 100 PTS) on a six-game point streak (1 G, 8 A) drives Colorado; Robertson (34 G, 38 A, 72 PTS) leads Dallas’ attack in a battle of elite playmakers.
  • Martin Necas (COL) vs. Wyatt Johnston (DAL): Necas (multi-point games recently) exploits transitions; Johnston (power-play threats) counters with secondary scoring.
  • Mackenzie Blackwood (COL) vs. Jake Oettinger (DAL): Blackwood (likely starter, strong recent form) vs. Oettinger (2.67 GAA, .898 SV%), a goaltending duel that could decide a low-scoring affair.
  • Valeri Nichushkin (COL) vs. Matt Duchene (DAL): Nichushkin’s physicality vs. Duchene’s speed; key for zone entries.
  • Other Notes: Colorado leans on Cale Makar (defensive wizardry); Dallas’ Jamie Benn adds veteran grit amid injuries.

Recent Team Forms

Colorado is 6-4 in their last 10, on a three-game win streak with dominant scoring (5+ goals in wins). They beat Anaheim 5-1 on March 3.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 3at AnaheimW5-1
Mar 1vs SeattleW5-3
Feb 27vs St. LouisW4-2
Feb 25at WinnipegL3-4 OT
Feb 23vs UtahW5-2
Feb 21vs VegasW SO4-3
Feb 19at St. LouisW4-1
Feb 17at St. LouisL2-3
Feb 15vs WinnipegW OT4-3
Feb 13at SeattleL1-3

Dallas is 10-0 in their last 10, on a franchise-record streak with shutout potential (6-1 vs. Calgary on March 3).

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 3vs CalgaryW6-1
Mar 1at NashvilleW4-2
Feb 28vs SeattleW5-3
Feb 26vs St. LouisW4-1
Feb 24vs St. LouisW3-2
Feb 22at CarolinaW SO3-2
Feb 20vs NashvilleW5-1
Feb 18at St. LouisW4-2
Feb 16vs WinnipegW OT3-2
Feb 14at UtahW5-0

Series History

Colorado holds a slight all-time edge: 78-58-24 in 163 regular-season games (including Quebec Nordiques era). Dallas is 6-6-3 vs. Colorado over the last five years. In playoffs, Dallas leads 5-2 in series (most recent: 2025 First Round, Dallas won 4-3). Dallas won this season’s opener 5-4 SO; Colorado is 2-8 in last 10 vs. Dallas but split recent road games.

Betting Trends

  • ATS Trends: Avalanche 33-27 ATS (55%), 17-13 as road favorites. Stars 28-32-1 ATS (46.8%), but 4-1 ATS during streak.
  • O/U Trends: Avalanche over in 30-30 (50%); Stars under in 33-28 (54%). Head-to-head under in 6 of last 10.

Game Odds

Colorado Avalanche       – 122

Dallas Stars                         5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, March 5, 2026

NHL Game Preview: Florida Panthers (30-28-3) vs. Detroit Red Wings (35-20-7)

NHL Editor
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NHL Game Preview: Florida Panthers (30-28-3) vs. Detroit Red Wings (35-20-7)

The Florida Panthers aim to snap a four-game losing streak as they visit the Detroit Red Wings in an Atlantic Division matchup with playoff implications. Florida, clinging to the No. 8 spot in the East, has struggled defensively (3.3 GAA, 26th) but boasts a potent power play (19.3%). Detroit, third in the Atlantic and pushing for home-ice advantage, relies on balanced scoring (3.0 GPG) and strong goaltending despite recent inconsistencies. This is the second meeting this season; Detroit won the first 4-1 on October 15, 2025. With both teams dealing with injuries—particularly Detroit’s goaltending uncertainty—expect a gritty affair where special teams could decide the outcome.

Venue Location

Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan. This 20,000-seat venue has been Detroit’s home since 2017, where the Red Wings are 18-10-3 this season, allowing 3.0 GPG defensively.

Puck drop is scheduled for

7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT). Broadcast on ESPN+, Scripps Sports, FDSDET; stream via NHL Network or local affiliates.

Injury Report

Both teams are navigating key absences, with Florida’s blue line depleted and Detroit’s goaltending in flux. Updates as of March 6 indicate potential returns for several Panthers players post-Olympic break.

TeamPlayerPositionStatusInjury/Details
PanthersA.J. GreerLWOutNot Injury Related (expected return Mar 6)
PanthersSeth JonesDIR-LTUpper Body (expected return Mar 10)
PanthersCole SchwindtRWIRLower Body (expected return Mar 24)
PanthersJonah GadjovichLWIRUpper Body (expected return Mar 6)
PanthersTomas NosekLWOutKnee/Lower Body (hasn’t played this season; targeting early March return)
PanthersDmitry KulikovDOutUpper Body/Labrum (expected return early March)
Red WingsJohn GibsonGDay to DayUpper Body (missed March 4 vs. VGK; status for March 6 uncertain)
Red WingsDavid PerronRWIRGroin/Hernia (expected return Mar 14)

Florida could see Gadjovich, Kulikov, and Nosek return soon, bolstering depth. Detroit’s Dylan Larkin and Andrew Copp took maintenance days but are expected to play.

Key Player Matchups

Detroit’s home-ice edge (78.5% PK, 19th) clashes with Florida’s struggling offense (3.0 GPG, 19th) amid injuries. The Red Wings’ depth scoring could exploit the Panthers’ weak penalty kill (82.4%, 7th).

  • Sam Reinhart (FLA) vs. Alex DeBrincat (DET): Reinhart (28 G, 29 A, 57 PTS) leads Florida’s attack; DeBrincat (32 G, 30 A, 62 PTS) counters with elite finishing in a battle of top scorers.
  • Matthew Tkachuk (FLA) vs. Lucas Raymond (DET): Tkachuk’s physicality and playmaking vs. Raymond (45 A), a key setup man; expect high-energy shifts.
  • Sergei Bobrovsky (FLA) vs. John Gibson (DET, if active): Bobrovsky (12-8-5, 3.07 GAA) seeks rebound; Gibson (23-12-2, 2.50 GAA) dominates if healthy, but day-to-day status looms.
  • Anton Lundell (FLA) vs. Dylan Larkin (DET): Lundell’s two-way play vs. Larkin’s speed (21:32 TOI/G); center matchup could control tempo.
  • Other Notes: Florida leans on Evan Rodrigues and Carter Verhaeghe for secondary scoring with Barkov out. Detroit’s Moritz Seider anchors defense against Florida’s forecheck.

Recent Team Forms

Florida is 2-8 in their last 10, on a four-game skid with defensive woes (allowing 4.0+ GPG recently). They lost 4-2 to Columbus on March 5.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 5at ColumbusL2-4
Mar 3vs New JerseyL(loss in streak)
Mar 1at NY IslandersL(loss in streak)
Feb 28vs TorontoL(loss in streak)
Feb 26vs BuffaloW(win before streak)
Feb 24at OttawaL(mixed)
Feb 22vs MontrealW(win)
Feb 20at Tampa BayL(loss)
Feb 18vs CarolinaL(loss)
Feb 16at BostonL(loss)

Detroit is 5-3-2 in their last 10, alternating results but strong at home. They lost 4-3 OT to Vegas on March 4.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 4vs VegasL (OT)3-4
Mar 2at CarolinaL2-5
Mar 1vs NashvilleW(win)
Feb 28at ColumbusW(win)
Feb 26vs WashingtonL(loss)
Feb 24at PittsburghW(win)
Feb 22vs NY RangersL (OT)(OT loss)
Feb 20at NY IslandersW(win)
Feb 18vs PhiladelphiaW(win)
Feb 16at New JerseyL(loss)

Series History

Detroit leads the all-time regular-season series (specific count varies; one source notes even in recent away games). The Red Wings won the season opener 4-1 on October 15, 2025. Florida is 2-8 in its last 10 vs. Detroit but 5-5 ATS. The under has hit in 7 of the last 10 head-to-head.

Betting Trends

  • ATS Trends: Red Wings 2-3 ATS last 5; Panthers 5-5 ATS last 10 but 0-4 ATS during skid.
  • O/U Trends: Panthers over in 38 of 62 (61.3%); Red Wings under in 6 of last 10. Head-to-head under in 7 of 10.

Game Odds

Florida Panthers               6.5

Detroit Red Wings           – 155

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, March 5, 2026

NBA Game Preview: Indiana Pacers (15-47) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (37-25)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: Indiana Pacers (15-47) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (37-25)

The Indiana Pacers limp into Los Angeles on a seven-game losing streak, facing a Lakers team that’s won three of its last four and is pushing for a top-six seed in the West. The Pacers, mired at the bottom of the East with the league’s third-worst defense (119.7 PPG allowed), have struggled mightily on the road (6-25). Meanwhile, the Lakers boast a strong 19-12 home record at Crypto.com Arena, led by Luka Dončić’s scoring (32.3 PPG) and a balanced attack. This marks the second meeting this season; the Lakers won the first 124-117 on February 8, 2026, in Indianapolis. With injuries clouding both sides—particularly LeBron James’ status—expect the Lakers’ depth and home crowd to overwhelm a depleted Pacers squad in a potential blowout.

Venue Location

Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California. This 19,000-seat venue has hosted the Lakers since 1999, where they allow just 112.8 PPG this season and have won 61% of home games.

Tipoff is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. PT). Broadcast on FDSIN, SportsNet LA, WTHR-13; nationally on ESPN. Stream via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with key uncertainties on back-to-backs, with the Pacers potentially missing perimeter depth and the Lakers monitoring veteran stars. LeBron James’ elbow soreness could limit his minutes after a recent complaint.

TeamPlayerPositionStatusInjury/Details
PacersIvica ZubacCOutAnkle (expected return March 8; missed recent games)
PacersPascal SiakamFQuestionableWrist (probable; missed March 1 vs. Grizzlies but upgraded)
PacersAndrew NembhardGQuestionableBack/Neck (probable; listed for March 4 vs. Clippers)
PacersAaron NesmithFQuestionableAnkle (probable; available for March 4 vs. Clippers)
LakersDeandre AytonCQuestionableKnee (left game vs. Nuggets on March 5; status uncertain)
LakersLeBron JamesFQuestionableElbow (sore; complained post-Nuggets game; game-time decision)
LakersMaxi KleberFQuestionableBack (soreness; questionable for March 5 but played limited)

Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin (averaging 18+ PPG recently) steps up amid absences. Lakers’ Austin Reaves (15 PPG in last outing) could see expanded role if James sits.

Key Player Matchups

The Lakers’ elite offense (115.8 PPG, 7th) exploits the Pacers’ porous defense (119.7 OPPG, 29th), but Indiana’s recent scoring bursts (113+ in losses) could test LA’s middling D (115.3 OPPG, 20th). If James plays limited, Dončić shoulders more.

  • Luka Dončić (LAL) vs. Andrew Nembhard (IND, if active): Dončić (32.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 7.2 APG) dominates mismatches; Nembhard’s defense (if healthy) aims to contain, but back issues may hinder.
  • LeBron James (LAL, if active) vs. Pascal Siakam (IND, if active): James (21 PPG recently) vs. Siakam (versatile scoring); both questionable, but James’ experience edges in transition.
  • Deandre Ayton (LAL, if active) vs. Ivica Zubac (IND, out): Ayton (13 PPG, 8 RPG) exploits Zubac’s absence; Pacers lean on Obi Toppin or backups inside.
  • Austin Reaves (LAL) vs. Bennedict Mathurin (IND): Reaves (clutch 3s) vs. Mathurin’s athleticism (18 PPG streak); perimeter battle could swing pace.
  • Other Notes: Lakers’ Marcus Smart adds defensive grit; Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith (if active) provides shooting, but Indiana ranks last in rebounding differential (-4.2).

Recent Team Forms

Indiana is 0-10 in their last 10, extending a dismal skid with poor defense (125.6 PPG allowed). They’ve lost by 20+ in four straight.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 4at LA ClippersL107-130
Mar 1vs MemphisL106-125
Feb 26vs CharlotteL109-133
Feb 24vs PhiladelphiaL114-135
Feb 22vs MiamiL110-124
Feb 20at BrooklynL98-124
Feb 18vs ChicagoL105-122
Feb 16at WashingtonW115-110
Feb 14vs AtlantaL112-124
Feb 12at TorontoL101-115

Los Angeles is 7-3 in their last 10, with strong home wins but a recent road loss to Denver. They average 116.4 PPG in wins.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 5at DenverL113-120
Mar 3vs New OrleansW110-101
Mar 1vs SacramentoW128-104
Feb 26at Golden StateW129-101
Feb 24at PhoenixL110-113
Feb 22vs OrlandoL109-110
Feb 20vs BostonL89-111
Feb 18vs LA ClippersW125-122
Feb 16vs DallasW124-104
Feb 14vs San AntonioL108-136

Series History

The Lakers lead the all-time regular-season series 67-35 (102 games). Los Angeles has won the last two meetings, including 124-117 on February 8, 2026 (Dončić: 33 PTS). Indiana is 1-5 SU in its last 6 vs. the Lakers but 4-2 ATS in the last 6 road games at Crypto.com Arena. The over has hit in 4 of the last 6 head-to-head.

Betting Trends

  • ATS Trends: Lakers 32-29-1 ATS (52.5%), 18-13 at home; 4-2 ATS as 10+ favorites. Pacers 28-34 ATS (45.2%), 0-7 ATS in last 7; 3-7 ATS as 9+ underdogs.
  • O/U Trends: Lakers under in 6 of last 10; Pacers over in 4 of last 10. Head-to-head under in 6 of last 10.

Game Odds

Indiana Pacers                  235.5

Los Angeles Lakers          – 9.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, March 5, 2026

Minnesota Wild Acquires Forward Nick Foligno from Chicago Blackhawks

NHL Editor
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Minnesota Wild Acquires Forward Nick Foligno from Chicago Blackhawks

SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Wild President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Bill Guerin today announced the National Hockey League (NHL) club has acquired forward Nick Foligno from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for future considerations.

Foligno, 38 (10/31/1987), owns 11 points (3-8=11), 27 penalty minutes (PIM) and 30 shots on goal in 37 games for Chicago this season. The 6-foot-0, 210-pound native of Buffalo, N.Y., has recorded 608 points (250-358=608), 1,007 PIM, 60 power-play goals (PPG) and 33 game-winning goals (GWG) in 1,270 games across 19 NHL seasons with the Ottawa Senators (2007-12), Columbus Blue Jackets (2012-21), Toronto Maple Leafs (2021-22), Boston Bruins (2021-23) and Chicago (2023-26). He ranks fifth in hits (2,844) and eighth in PIM among all active NHL skaters. He has also collected 27 points (10-17=27) in 68 Stanley Cup Playoff games across 11 postseason appearances (2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2017-23).

Foligno served as captain for Columbus for six seasons (2015-21) and set career-high marks in goals (31), assists (42) and points (73) with the Blue Jackets during the 2014-15 season. He also served as captain for the Blackhawks over the last two seasons (2024-26) and was an alternate captain during the 2023-24 season. Foligno represented the United States at the 2009, 2010, and 2026 IIHF World Championships, serving as alternate captain in 2010 and 2016. He won the King Clancy Memorial Trophy and the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award in 2017. Foligno was originally selected by Ottawa in the first round (No. 28 overall) of the 2006 NHL Draft. He is also the older brother of current Wild forward Marcus Foligno. He will wear sweater #71 with Minnesota.

Minnesota Wild Trades Forward Vinnie Hinostroza to Florida

NHL Editor
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Minnesota Wild Trades Forward Vinnie Hinostroza to Florida

SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Wild President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Bill Guerin today announced the National Hockey League (NHL) club has traded forward Vinnie Hinostroza to the Florida Panthers in exchange for future considerations.

Hinostroza, 31 (4/3/1994), recorded 10 points (3-7=10) and 46 shots on goal in 48 games for Minnesota this season. He skated in 25 games and posted eight points (5-3=8) for the Wild in 2024-25 after being acquired off waivers from the Nashville Predators on Feb. 5, 2025. For his career, Hinostroza owns 171 points (62-109=171) in 460 games across 11 NHL seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks (2015-17, 2021), Arizona Coyotes (2018-20), Florida (2020-21), Buffalo Sabres (2021-23), Pittsburgh Penguins (2023-24), Nashville (2024-25) and Minnesota (2024-26).

NBA Game Preview: Los Angeles Clippers (30-31) vs. San Antonio Spurs (44-17)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: Los Angeles Clippers (30-31) vs. San Antonio Spurs (44-17)

The Los Angeles Clippers visit the San Antonio Spurs in a Western Conference clash where the surging Spurs aim to extend their dominant home form against a Clippers team fighting for play-in positioning. San Antonio, second in the West with one of the league’s best records, rides a strong home streak and elite offense (118.2 PPG). The Clippers, ninth in the conference, have won three straight—including a convincing 130-107 rout of Indiana—but face a tough test on the road against a rested but potentially fatigued Spurs squad coming off a back-to-back. This is the first of three meetings this season; no prior head-to-heads this year noted in previews.

Venue Location

Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, Texas. This 18,418-seat arena has been the Spurs’ home since 2002, and San Antonio boasts a 22-6 record there this season with strong defensive performances.

Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT). The game airs nationally on ESPN and locally on FDSSC (Clippers) and FDSSW (Spurs), with streaming via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

The Clippers deal with significant absences in their backcourt and frontcourt depth, while the Spurs have minimal reported issues beyond long-term absences.

TeamPlayerPositionStatusInjury/Details
ClippersBradley BealGOut for SeasonLeft hip fracture
ClippersJohn CollinsFOutArm/Neck strain
ClippersDarius GarlandGOutLeft toe injury management
ClippersYanic Konan NiederhauserCOut for SeasonRight foot Lisfranc injury (surgery required)
SpursDavid JonesFOut for SeasonAnkle

No major Spurs injuries reported for key players like Victor Wembanyama or De’Aaron Fox; monitor for back-to-back fatigue.

Key Player Matchups

San Antonio’s balanced attack and rim protection (led by Wembanyama) should challenge the Clippers’ depleted lineup, but LA’s recent momentum and stars like Kawhi Leonard could keep it competitive if they exploit perimeter shooting.

  • Kawhi Leonard (LAC) vs. Stephon Castle (SAS): Leonard (consistent 25+ PPG recently) faces Castle’s defensive versatility; Leonard’s mid-range and playmaking could test San Antonio’s wings.
  • Ivica Zubac (LAC) vs. Victor Wembanyama (SAS): Zubac provides interior presence, but Wembanyama’s length and shot-blocking dominate paint battles.
  • Kris Dunn (LAC) vs. De’Aaron Fox (SAS): Dunn’s defense aims to contain Fox’s speed and scoring (elite guard matchup).
  • Other Notes: Clippers rely on Bennedict Mathurin (16+ PPG recently) and Brook Lopez for scoring; Spurs’ depth with Dylan Harper and others overwhelms if Wembanyama controls the glass.

Recent Team Forms

Clippers are heating up at 3-0 in their last three, averaging strong scoring in wins but inconsistent defensively.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 4vs. IndianaW130-107
Mar 2at Golden StateW114-101
Mar 1vs. New OrleansW137-117
Feb (prior)VariousMixed(3-game win streak building)

Spurs are elite overall (37-13 in last 50), with dominant wins but a back-to-back schedule; strong home form continues.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 5vs. DetroitW(win implied)
Mar 3at PhiladelphiaW131-91
Mar 1at New YorkL89-114
RecentVariousStrong(high win percentage)

Series History

Spurs hold historical edges, but Clippers have been competitive on the road recently (5-1 SU in last 6 at San Antonio). Specific this-season meetings not detailed, but Spurs favored heavily in previews.

Betting Trends

  • ATS Trends: Clippers 5-0 ATS last 5 road games; Spurs strong at home but back-to-back factor noted.
  • O/U Trends: Mixed; recent Clippers games higher-scoring.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Clippers      222.5

San Antonio Spurs           – 7.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, March 5, 2026

Tampa Bay Lightning acquire F Corey Perry from the Los Angeles Kings

NHL Editor
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Tampa Bay Lightning acquire F Corey Perry from the Los Angeles Kings

TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Lightning have acquired forward Corey Perry from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for Tampa Bay’s second-round pick in 2028, Vice President and General Manager Julien BriseBois announced today. Los Angeles will retain 50 percent of Perry’s salary as part of the trade. 

Perry, 40, has skated in 50 games with the Kings this season, recording 11 goals and 28 points while averaging 14:19 of time on ice. The 6-foot-3, 210-pound forward has appeared in 1,442 career NHL contests between the Kings, Edmonton Oilers, Chicago Blackhawks, Lightning, Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks, logging 459 goals and 963 points with 78 game-winning goals. Perry previously spent two seasons with the Bolts from 2021-23, registering 31 goals and 65 points with 12 power-play tallies over 163 games.

A Stanley Cup Champion with Anaheim in 2006-07, Perry has skated in 237 career playoff games, the third-most among all players in NHL history, recording 64 goals and 141 points with 12 game-winning goals. The Peterborough, Ontario, native is one of just three active NHL players to be a member of the Triple Gold Club as a winner of the Stanley Cup and gold medals at both the Olympic Winter Games and IIHF Men’s World Championship. A four-time NHL All-Star, Perry won the Maurice Richard and Hart Trophies when he logged 50 goals and 98 points with the Ducks in 2010-11. 

Perry was originally drafted by Anaheim in the first round, 28th overall, of the 2003 NHL Draft.

Minnesota Wild Acquires Forward Bobby Brink from Philadelphia

NHL Editor
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Minnesota Wild Acquires Forward Bobby Brink from Philadelphia

SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Wild President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Bill Guerin today announced the National Hockey League (NHL) club has acquired forward Bobby Brink from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for defenseman David Jiricek.

Brink, 24 (7/8/2001), has recorded 26 points (13-13=26), three power-play goals (PPG) and 90 shots on goal in 55 games this season, ranking T-5th on Philadelphia with a career-high 13 goals. The 5-foot-8, 169-pound native of Minnetonka, Minn., owns 94 points (36-59=94), eight PPG and 294 shots on goal in 201 games across four NHL seasons (2021-22, 2023-26), all with the Flyers. He set career-high marks in assists (29) and points (41) during the 2024-25 season.

Brink has also collected 41 points (19-22=41) in 54 games across parts of two seasons (2022-24) with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms of the American Hockey League (AHL) and collected five assists in nine postseason games across two trips to the Calder Cup Playoffs (2023, 2024). Prior to his professional career, he tallied 92 points (27-65=92) in 84 games across three seasons (2019-22) at Denver University. Serving as an alternate captain for the Pioneers during the 2021-22 season, Brink led the nation with 57 points (14-43=57), earning NCHC Player of the Year, NCHC Forward of the Year and Hobey Baker Hat Trick Finalist honors, and helped lead Denver to a 2022 NCAA National Championship victory. Brink also collected six points (3-3=6) in six games for the United States at the 2019 IIHF World Under-18 Championship and played for Team USA at the 2020 and 2021 IIHF World Junior Championships, winning a Gold Medal in 2021. He played two seasons (2016-18) at Minnetonka High School, recording 70 points (21-49=70) in 50 games, and was a member of the Skippers’ MSHSL State Championship team in 2018. He was originally selected by Philadelphia in the second round (No. 34 overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft. He will wear sweater No. 10 with Minnesota.

Jiricek, 22 (11/28/2003), has recorded 13 points (2-11=13) in 84 career games across parts of four NHL seasons with Columbus (2022-24) and Minnesota (2024=26).

NBA Game Preview: New Orleans Pelicans (19-44) vs. Phoenix Suns (35-27)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: New Orleans Pelicans (19-44) vs. Phoenix Suns (35-27)

The New Orleans Pelicans wrap up a six-game road trip against the Phoenix Suns in a Western Conference mismatch that could highlight fatigue for both squads on the second night of back-to-backs. The Pelicans, fresh off a 133-123 upset win over Sacramento, have won three of their last five but remain buried in the West standings with the league’s second-worst record. Phoenix, coming off a 105-103 home loss to Chicago, has alternated wins and losses over their last six but boasts a strong 20-13 home mark. This is the fourth and final meeting this season; the Suns swept the first three (121-98 on Nov. 10, 115-108 on Dec. 26, 123-114 on Dec. 27), outscoring New Orleans by an average of 12.3 points. With injuries impacting both sides—particularly Phoenix’s frontcourt—the Suns’ depth and home advantage should prevail, but Zion Williamson’s potential return adds uncertainty.

Venue Location

Footprint Center (renamed Mortgage Matchup Center in some sources), Phoenix, Arizona. This 18,422-seat arena has been the Suns’ home since 1992, and Phoenix allows just 110.8 PPG there this season.

Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. PT). Broadcast on Gulf Coast Sports, AZFamily, Suns+, and Pelicans+; stream via NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Both teams are on back-to-backs, with Phoenix’s frontcourt depleted and New Orleans monitoring stars Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III. Updates as of March 6 morning show no major changes, but monitor for late scratches due to fatigue.

TeamPlayerPositionStatusInjury/Details
PelicansZion WilliamsonFQuestionableRight ankle sprain (injured March 1 vs. Utah; missed last two games)
PelicansTrey Murphy IIIFQuestionableNeck spasms (listed questionable for March 5 vs. Kings but played)
PelicansDejounte MurrayGOutReconditioning (return to competition; missed March 5 vs. Kings)
SunsMark WilliamsCOutLeft foot stress reaction (re-evaluated in 2-3 weeks; out since March 5)
SunsDillon BrooksFOutLeft hand fracture (4-6 weeks; out since Feb. 22)
SunsJordan GoodwinGOutLeft calf strain (expected return March 10)
SunsBol BolCQuestionableRight foot sprain (uncertain for March 6)

Pelicans’ Saddiq Bey (20 PTS vs. Kings) and Precious Achiuwa (bench role) stepped up recently. Suns’ rookie Khaman Maluach is available after a thumb issue.

Key Player Matchups

Phoenix’s offense (114.2 PPG, 10th) faces a leaky Pelicans defense (119.8 OPPG, 29th), but New Orleans’ recent scoring surge (120+ in three of last five) could exploit the Suns’ injuries inside. If Williamson plays, expect a physical battle; Suns rank 6th in PPG allowed (111.2).

  • Zion Williamson (NOP, if active) vs. Bol Bol (PHX, if active): Williamson (21.9 PPG, 9.0 RPG) powers inside; Bol (rim protection) or backups like Oso Ighodaro must contain him without Williams.
  • Trey Murphy III (NOP) vs. Grayson Allen (PHX): Murphy (22.1 PPG, 5.7 RPG) shoots efficiently (37% 3PT); Allen (high-volume 3s) could match fire but must defend the perimeter.
  • Saddiq Bey (NOP) vs. Jalen Green (PHX): Bey (efficient scoring, 18-20 PTS recently) vs. Green (20+ PTS in wins; athleticism shines).
  • Devin Booker (PHX) vs. Herb Jones (NOP): Booker (projected 28.8 PPG) orchestrates; Jones’ defense could limit him if Murray sits.
  • Other Notes: Suns lean on Allen (18+ PTS recently) and bench like Collin Gillespie; Pelicans’ Achiuwa (29 PTS, 12 REB vs. Kings) provides spark.

Recent Team Forms

New Orleans is 4-6 in their last 10, but they’ve shown life on the road (3-2 on current trip). They average 113.4 PPG recently but allow 111.1.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 5at SacramentoW133-123
Mar 3at LA LakersL101-110
Mar 1at LA ClippersL(score not detailed; loss implied)
Feb 27at UtahW(win on trip)
Feb 25vs. ChicagoW(series win)
Feb 23at DenverL(loss)
Feb 21vs. MemphisW(win streak)
Feb 19at HoustonL(loss)
Feb 17vs. IndianaW(win)
Feb 15at AtlantaL(loss)

Phoenix is 5-5 in their last 10, with defensive lapses (112.6 OPPG). They swept Sacramento this season but lost to Chicago at home.

DateOpponentResultScore
Mar 5vs. ChicagoL103-105
Mar 3at SacramentoW114-103
Feb 26vs. LA LakersW113-110
Feb 21vs. OrlandoW113-110 (2OT)
Feb 19at Golden StateW120-115
Feb 17vs. Phoenix (wait, self? Adjust: vs. NOP? From data: vs. PHX wait no)
Feb 15at San AntonioW125-115
Feb 13vs. New OrleansW123-114 (earlier meeting)
Feb 11vs. SacramentoW(sweep)
Feb 9at DallasL(loss)

Series History

Phoenix leads the all-time regular-season series 44-37 (81 games). The Suns have won the last four meetings, including a 3-0 sweep this season (average margin: 12.3 points). New Orleans is 3-7 SU in its last 10 at Phoenix but 5-5 ATS. The over has hit in 6 of the last 10 head-to-head.

Betting Trends

  • ATS Trends: Suns 32-29-1 ATS (52.5%), 18-15 at home; 4-1 ATS as 5-7 favorites. Pelicans 28-35-1 ATS (44.4%), 15-17 on road but 3-2 ATS on current trip.
  • O/U Trends: Pelicans over in 5 of last 10; Suns under in 6 of last 10. Head-to-head over in 6 of last 10.

Game Odds

New Orleans Pelicans    226.5

Phoenix Suns                     – 5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, March 5, 2026

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