FREE AGENCY SYSTEM TRANSACTION
FRANCHISE PLAYER DESIGNATION
ATLANTA
Pitts, Kyle TE Florida
NFL team transaction report for Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Minnesota Wild Recalls Ben Jones and Matt Kiersted from Iowa
SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Wild President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Bill Guerin today announced the National Hockey League (NHL) club has recalled forward Ben Jones and defenseman Matt Kiersted from the Iowa Wild of the American Hockey League (AHL).
Jones, 26 (2/26/99), has collected two points (1-1=2) in 20 games with Minnesota this season and ranks seventh on the team with 53 hits. He scored his first career NHL goal on January 10 vs. the New York Islanders. He has also collected 16 points (5-11=16) including two power-play goals (PPG) in 18 games with Iowa. The 6-foot, 190-pound native of Waterloo, Ont., has recorded 50 shots on goal and 108 hits in 54 career NHL games in parts of three seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights (2021-22) and the Wild (2024-26). Jones was selected by Vegas in the seventh round (No. 189 overall) of the 2017 NHL Draft and wears sweater No. 39 with Minnesota. Jones has also tallied 213 points (90-123=213) and 294 penalty minutes (PIM) in 350 career games in parts of seven seasons in the AHL with Chicago (2019-20), Henderson (2020-22), Calgary (2022-24) and Iowa (2024-26). He has also logged four points (2-2=4) and 22 PIM in 22 career Calder Cup Playoff games.
Kiersted, 27 (4/14/98), has one assist and four shots on goal in four games with Minnesota this season. He has also recorded seven points (1-6=7), 70 shots on goal and 28 PIM in 33 games with Iowa. The 6-foot, 181-pound native of Elk River, Minnesota, posted 29 points (1-28=29), 40 PIM and a plus-34 rating in 64 games with the Charlotte Checkers (AHL) last season, leading the AHL in plus-minus rating and ranking second among Charlotte skaters in assists. Kiersted also registered eight assists, 12 PIM and a plus-8 rating in 13 games during the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs, helping the Checkers to an appearance in the Calder Cup Finals. For his career, Kiersted has tallied eight points (2-6=8) in 43 career games in parts of five NHL seasons with the Florida Panthers (2020-25) and Minnesota (2025-26). He has also skated in 266 games and notched 92 points (17-75=92), 229 PIM and a plus-52 rating across five AHL seasons with Charlotte (2021-25) and Iowa (2025-26) while posting 12 points (1-11=12) in 30 career Calder Cup Playoff games. He originally signed with Florida as a free agent on April 1, 2021, and wears sweater No. 26 with the Wild.
PGA Golf Preview: Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches
Venue Location
PGA National Resort (The Champion Course), Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. This iconic Tom Fazio-designed layout (redesigned with Jack Nicklaus input) measures 7,223 yards (lengthened ~100 yards from 2025) at par 71. Known for its 15 water hazards, strategic bunkering, and the infamous “Bear Trap” (holes 15-17: par-3 over water, risk-reward par-4, and another par-3 over water into the prevailing east-northeast wind). The course rewards precise iron play (especially 150-200 yards), scrambling, and wind management while punishing errant shots. Fairways and rough are overseeded with rye grass (firmer, more consistent than past dormant Bermuda); greens remain Bermuda. Recent agronomic work has the course in “better than ever” condition despite a record February cold snap.
Starting Date and Tee Time is scheduled for
Thursday, February 26 – Sunday, March 1, 2026 (72-hole stroke play, cut after 36 holes to top 65 + ties).
- Practice/Pro-Am: Wednesday, Feb. 25 (gates open ~7:00 a.m. ET).
- Round 1 (Thursday, Feb. 26): Gates open 7:00 a.m. ET; tee times ~7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET (wave starts).
- Round 2 (Friday): Same window.
- Round 3 (Saturday): ~8:00 a.m. – noon ET.
- Final Round (Sunday): ~8:00 a.m. – ~2:00 p.m. ET.
Purse: $9.6 million (winner: ~$1.7M + 500 FedExCup points). Broadcast: Golf Channel/NBC (coverage starts ~2:00 p.m. ET daily), ESPN+ streaming.
Weather Conditions
Classic South Florida February weather — mild and playable after a recent record cold snap that the rye overseed handled perfectly.
- Highs: 78–82°F daily.
- Lows: 55–65°F (cooler overnight).
- Wind: Light to moderate (8–15 mph, east-northeast prevailing — key factor on Bear Trap).
- Precipitation: Low chance (10–20% isolated showers possible Sunday); mostly sunny to partly cloudy.
- Humidity: Moderate (50–70%).
Perfect scoring conditions early in the week; wind could firm up the course and increase difficulty on the back nine by weekend. No freeze risk remains.
Course Conditions
Firm, fast, and in pristine shape. Rye overseed on fairways/rough provides excellent lies and durability. Bermuda greens running ~11–12 on the Stimpmeter (typical for the event). Water in play on 15 holes demands accuracy off the tee and precise approaches. Expect scoring average around 70–71 (par 71); winning score historically ~15–19 under in benign conditions. Bear Trap (15-17) remains the signature test — historically +0.5 to +1.0 strokes over par combined.
Tournament History
Long-running event (since 1972 as Jackie Gleason’s Inverrary Classic; later Honda Classic; rebranded Cognizant in 2024). Held at PGA National since 2007 (also hosted 1983 Ryder Cup, 1987 PGA Championship).
- Defending Champion: Joe Highsmith (2025) — posted the lowest weekend score in course history (64-64 = 128, 19-under total) for his first PGA Tour win.
- Notable past winners: Jack Nicklaus (multiple), Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington, Rickie Fowler, Chris Kirk, Austin Eckroat.
- Course records: 19-under (Highsmith 2025); lowest single round 62.
Strong history for accurate ball-strikers and locals/Florida residents.
Player Matchups & Key Contenders (Field: ~121–131 players)
No Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, or other top-5 OWGR players (first non-signature event in three weeks).
Top Contenders & Matchups:
- Shane Lowry (+1400–1600): Local (Jupiter, 20 miles away), 9th start at PGA National (never missed cut, multiple top-10s). Elite iron play suits the layout.
- Ryan Gerard (+1600–1900): Co-favorite; back-to-back runner-ups early 2026; 4th here in 2023 debut, T25 in 2025. Outstanding approach game (150–200 yards critical here).
- Brooks Koepka (+2700–3000): 3rd PGA Tour start since LIV return; major pedigree shines on tough tracks.
- Nicolai Højgaard (+2000) / Rasmus Højgaard (+2200): Red-hot ball-striking; twins dominate SG: Off-the-Tee and Approach.
- Defending Joe Highsmith: Seeks back-to-back (first since Nicklaus 1977–78).
- Others to watch: Max Homa, Aaron Rai, Will Zalatoris (if in), Keith Mitchell (past winner here as Honda), Daniel Berger, Michael Thorbjornsen, Haotong Li.
Recent Player Forms (Key Stats – Post-Olympic/Genesis)
- Gerard: 2 runner-ups + strong approach/SG:T2G.
- Lowry: Consistent top-10s; thrives in Florida wind.
- Højgaard twins: Elite tee-to-green; multiple top-5s recently.
- Koepka: Limited starts but sharp when playing.
- Highsmith: Momentum from 2025 breakthrough.
Field favors players with strong iron play, scrambling, and wind experience (Bear Trap separates contenders).
Betting Trends & Insights
- Favorites: Shane Lowry / Ryan Gerard co-favorites (~+1600). Wide-open field with no superstars boosts value on course-history specialists.
- Trends: Accurate iron players (150–200 yards) and scramblers dominate. Past performance at PGA National heavily predictive (Lowry, Gerard excel). Windy weekend historically inflates scores.
Overall Outlook
This is a wide-open Florida swing opener at a classic risk-reward venue. Expect low scores early if winds stay light, with the Bear Trap and firm conditions deciding the weekend. Shane Lowry’s local knowledge and iron play or Ryan Gerard’s red-hot form make them the logical frontrunners, but Brooks Koepka’s major pedigree or a surging Højgaard could steal the show. Joe Highsmith defending adds storyline intrigue. A winning score around 15–18 under is likely in benign weather.
2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Defence Force FC vs. Philadelphia Union
Venue Location
The match will take place at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, USA. This is Philadelphia Union’s home stadium, with a capacity of approximately 18,500. The pitch is natural grass, and the venue is known for its intense atmosphere during knockout competitions.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT / 12:00 AM UTC on February 27). Broadcast details include FS2, TUDN, ConcacafGO, and other regional platforms.
Weather Updates
- High temperature: 45–50°F (7–10°C)
- Evening kickoff temperature: Around 32–36°F (0–2°C)
- Conditions: Partly cloudy with a low chance of precipitation (10–20%)
- Wind: 5–10 mph from the north
- Humidity: 50–60%
- Other details: Chilly conditions expected; no major disruptions, but players may need to adapt to cooler temperatures. UV index low (around 3 during the day).
Injury Report
- Philadelphia Union: OUT: Ben Bender (adductor), Eddy Davis III (quad), Quinn Sullivan (knee). QUESTIONABLE: Jovan Lukic (ribs), Frankie Westfield (hamstring). The team will miss depth in midfield and attack, but core players like Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski are available. No new issues from the recent MLS loss.
- Defence Force FC: SUSPENDED: Joevin Jones (red card in first leg). No major injuries reported, but the squad may face fatigue from travel and recent domestic play. Key players like Rodrigo Tello are expected to feature.
Key
Player Matchups
With Philadelphia holding a 5-0 aggregate lead from the first leg, expect the Union to rotate and manage minutes while Defence Force pushes for an improbable comeback. Key battles:
- Bruno Damiani (Philadelphia Forward) vs. Defence Force Defense: Damiani’s brace in the first leg (including a penalty) showcased his finishing (2 goals in 2026). His movement will challenge Defence Force’s backline, led by Marlon Ávila and Omar Alba, who conceded five times previously. Damiani’s form could extend the lead if given space.
- Milan Iloski (Philadelphia Forward) vs. Defence Force Center-Backs: Iloski opened the scoring in the first leg with a free-kick (30′). His set-piece threat and positioning test the Trinidadians’ defense, which struggled against Philly’s 22 shots in Leg 1.
- Ezekiel Alladoh (Philadelphia Forward) vs. Defence Force Midfield: Alladoh debuted strongly with a goal in the first leg. His pace could exploit midfielders like Héctor Hurtado, especially on counters as Defence Force attacks desperately.
- Rodrigo Tello (Defence Force Midfielder) vs. Philadelphia Defense: Tello was a standout in Leg 1 despite the loss. He’ll need to beat Philly’s backline, including Olwethu Makhanya (scorer in first leg) and Nathan Harriel, to spark any goals. Goalkeeper Andrew Rick’s clean sheet adds pressure.
Recent Team Forms
- Philadelphia Union: L W (0-1 away loss vs. D.C. United in MLS; 5-0 away win vs. Defence Force in CCC Leg 1). They’ve scored 5 goals in CCC but struggled offensively in MLS, with clean sheets elusive recently. New signings like Ezekiel Alladoh (goal in debut) are integrating.
- Defence Force FC: L W (0-5 home loss vs. Philadelphia in CCC Leg 1; 2-1 win vs. Caledonia in TT Premier League). Strong domestically (unbeaten in 11 prior to CCC), but defensive frailties exposed (5 conceded in first leg). Form is solid in league with high scoring.
Series History
This is the second meeting between the clubs. Philadelphia Union dominated the first leg on February 18, 2026, winning 5-0 at Hasely Crawford Stadium (goals: Milan Iloski 30′, Ezekiel Alladoh, Olwethu Makhanya, Bruno Damiani x2). Aggregate: Philadelphia leads 5-0. Defence Force needs at least five goals without reply to force extra time—a highly unlikely scenario.
Betting Trends
- Philadelphia has scored 5+ goals in their CCC match, but under 1.5 in MLS (1 goal in 2 games total).
- Defence Force has conceded 5 in their only CCC game, but kept clean sheets in 4 of last 5 league matches.
- Home teams in CCC second legs win 80% when leading by 4+ goals after Leg 1 (historical data).
- Trend: Philadelphia unbeaten at home in season openers; Defence Force winless vs. MLS teams.
MATCH ODDS
Defence Force FC + 1200
Philadelphia Union – 750
Draw + 750
Over 3.5 – 105 Under 3.5 – 115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, February 25, 2026
2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Sporting San Miguelito vs. Los Angeles Galaxy
Venue Location
The match will be held at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, USA. This is the LA Galaxy’s home stadium, with a capacity of 27,000. The pitch is natural grass, and the venue is renowned for its energetic crowd during international fixtures.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8:30 PM PT (11:30 PM ET / 9:30 PM MT / 4:30 AM UTC on February 26). Broadcast details include FS2, TUDN, ConcacafGO, and other regional platforms.
Weather Updates
- High temperature: 73–76°F (23–24°C)
- Evening kickoff temperature: Around 55–57°F (13–14°C)
- Conditions: Partly cloudy with a low chance of light rain (10–20%)
- Wind: 5–10 mph from the southwest
- Humidity: 60–70%
- Other details: Mild evening with no major weather issues anticipated; comfortable for play, though a slight breeze could affect long balls. UV index moderate (around 5 during the day).
Injury Report
- LA Galaxy: OUT: Riqui Puig (ACL tear, season-ending), Isaiah Parente (ankle), Chris Rindov (leg), Erik Thommy (knee), Edwin Cerrillo (suspension). The team will miss key midfield options, with Puig’s long-term absence a major blow. Depth players like Lucas Sanabria and Harbor Miller may see increased roles. No new injuries from the recent MLS draw.
- Sporting San Miguelito: No major injuries or suspensions reported. The squad is expected to be at full strength, with key players like Rodrigo Tello and Ángel Valencia available. Fatigue from a recent league win (1-0 vs. Alianza on Feb 12) could play a minor role.
Key
Player Matchups
With the aggregate tied 1-1 from the first leg (LA holding an away goal edge), expect LA to push for control at home while Sporting SM seeks to exploit counters. Key battles:
- Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy Forward) vs. Sporting SM Defense: Paintsil equalized in the first leg (68′) and brings speed (recent MLS shots on target). His dribbling will challenge defenders like Marlon Ávila and Sergio Ramírez, who limited LA’s shots but conceded late. Paintsil’s form (preseason goals) could open spaces.
- João Klauss (LA Galaxy Forward) vs. Sporting SM Center-Backs: Klauss debuted in the first leg and scored early in the MLS opener (1-1 vs. NYCFC). His physicality tests Omar Alba and Marlon Ávila, who headed in threats but struggled with LA’s 18 shots in Leg 1.
- Gabriel Pec (LA Galaxy Midfielder/Forward) vs. Sporting SM Midfield: Pec led LA preseason scoring (3 goals) and assisted in the MLS draw. His creativity faces Héctor Hurtado and Rodrigo Tello (scorer in Leg 1), who disrupted LA’s midfield but allowed 76% possession.
- Rodrigo Tello (Sporting SM Midfielder) vs. LA Galaxy Defense: Tello’s header (37′) gave SSM the lead in Leg 1. He’ll test LA’s backline, including Maya Yoshida and Jakob Glesnes (debuted strongly), who conceded but limited SSM to 5 shots.
Recent Team Forms
- LA Galaxy: D D (1-1 away draw vs. Sporting SM in CCC Leg 1; 1-1 home draw vs. NYCFC in MLS). They’ve drawn both 2026 games, scoring 2 goals with strong possession (76% in Leg 1) but needing better finishing. New signings like João Klauss (MLS goal) and Joseph Paintsil (CCC goal) are integrating.
- Sporting San Miguelito: W D L W D (1-0 home win vs. Alianza in LPF; 0-2 loss vs. Árabe Unido in LPF; other recent league results mixed). Solid defensively in Leg 1 (limited LA to 16% shot accuracy) but struggled offensively (5 shots).
Series History
This is the second meeting between the clubs. The first leg on February 19, 2026, ended 1-1 at Estadio Universidad Latina (goals: Rodrigo Tello 37′ for SSM; Joseph Paintsil 68′ for LA). Aggregate: Tied 1-1 (LA holds away goals tiebreaker). SSM needs a win or high-scoring draw to advance; a 0-0 or 1-1 forces extra time.
Betting Trends
- LA Galaxy has drawn both 2026 games, with under 2.5 goals in each (2 goals scored total).
- Sporting SM has seen both teams score in 3 of last 5 games, but under 2.5 in recent home outings.
- Home teams in CCC second legs win ~75% when tied after Leg 1 (historical data).
- Trend: LA unbeaten at home in recent openers; Sporting SM has +1.5 handicap cover in 7 of last 8 away games.
MATCH ODDS
Sporting San Miguelito + 700
Los Angeles Galaxy – 300
Draw + 400
Over 2.5 – 120 Under 2.5 + 100
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, February 24, 2026
2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: C. S. Cartagines vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC
Venue Location
The match will take place at BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This multi-purpose stadium has a capacity of approximately 54,000, though configured for soccer it seats around 21,000. The pitch is artificial turf, known for its fast surface and the venue’s electric atmosphere during continental games.
Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET / 2:30 AM UTC on February 26). Broadcast options include OneSoccer, FS2, TUDN, and ConcacafGO in select regions.
Weather Updates
- High temperature: 48°F (9°C)
- Evening kickoff temperature: Around 45°F (7°C)
- Conditions: Cloudy with periods of rain (chance 40–50%)
- Wind: 6–12 mph from the southwest
- Humidity: 80–90%
- Other details: Mild but wet conditions possible; no major disruptions expected, though rain could affect play on the artificial turf. UV index low (around 2 during the day).
Injury Report
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC: OUT: Sam Adekugbe (Achilles), Ryan Gauld (knee), Belal Halbouni (knee). QUESTIONABLE: Bruno Caicedo (visa issues/not due to injury). The team will miss key contributors, particularly Gauld’s creativity in midfield, but depth options like Pedro Vite and Sebastian Berhalter are available. No new injuries from the recent MLS win.
- C.S. Cartaginés: No major injuries or suspensions reported. The squad is at full strength, with key players like Marcel Hernández and goalkeeper Kevin Briceño available. Fatigue from a recent domestic loss (0-2 to Sporting San José on Feb 22) could be a factor.
Key
Player Matchups
With the aggregate tied 0-0 from the first leg, Vancouver holds home advantage but must navigate injuries. Expect a tactical battle, with the ‘Caps controlling possession as in Leg 1 (76% possession). Key matchups:
- Brian White (Vancouver Forward) vs. C.S. Cartaginés Defense: White, who led Vancouver with 15 goals in 2025 MLS, will test Cartaginés’ backline led by William Quirós and José Vargas. White’s movement and aerial ability could exploit gaps, especially with Cartaginés conceding in recent games. In Leg 1, Vancouver had 15 shots but couldn’t break through.
- Pedro Vite (Vancouver Midfielder) vs. C.S. Cartaginés Midfield: With Gauld out, Vite’s vision (key in the MLS opener win) will challenge midfielders like Allen Guevara and Cristopher Núñez. Vite’s ability to dictate tempo could unlock counters if Cartaginés pushes for an away goal.
- Marcel Hernández (Cartaginés Forward) vs. Vancouver Defense: Hernández, Cartaginés’ top scorer with 8 goals in Clausura, has pace to trouble Vancouver’s backline, including Ranko Veselinović (questionable) and Tristan Blackmon. Hernández was quiet in Leg 1 but could spark if given space.
- Yohei Takaoka (Vancouver Goalkeeper) vs. Cartaginés Attack: Takaoka’s clean sheet in Leg 1 (no saves needed due to dominance) faces a test from Cartaginés’ desperate need for goals. Goalkeeper Kevin Briceño’s 5 saves in Leg 1 highlight the reverse matchup.
Recent Team Forms
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC: W D (1-0 home win vs. Real Salt Lake in MLS; 0-0 away draw vs. Cartaginés in CCC Leg 1). They’ve kept clean sheets in both 2026 games, with strong possession but needing better finishing (15 shots in Leg 1). New coach Jesper Sørensen has emphasized structure.
- C.S. Cartaginés: L W L W D (0-2 away loss to Sporting San José; 1-0 away win vs. Pérez Zeledón; 0-1 home loss to Herediano; 2-1 home win vs. Liberia; 0-0 home draw vs. Vancouver in CCC Leg 1). Solid domestically (2nd in Clausura) but defensive in Leg 1 (0 shots on target), relying on counter-attacks.
Series History
This is the second meeting between the clubs, with no prior history. The first leg on February 18, 2026, ended 0-0 at Estadio Fello Meza in Cartago, Costa Rica. Aggregate score: Tied 0-0. Away goals are not in effect; a draw would force extra time, and penalties if needed.
Betting Trends
- Vancouver has kept clean sheets in both 2026 games, with under 2.5 goals in each.
- Cartaginés has seen under 3.5 goals in 12 of their last 13 games, and under 2.5 in recent home outings.
- Home teams in CCC second legs win ~75% when tied after Leg 1 (historical data from similar ties).
- Trend: Vancouver unbeaten at home in openers; Cartaginés has +1.5 handicap cover in 6 of last 7 away games.
MATCH ODDS
C. S. Cartagines + 700
Vancouver Whitecaps FC – 300
Draw + 400
Over 2.5 – 120 Under 2.5 + 100
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, February 24, 2026
2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Universidad O&M FC vs. FC Cincinnati
Venue Location
The match will be held at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. This is FC Cincinnati’s home venue, with a capacity of 26,000. The pitch is natural grass, and the stadium is known for its passionate fanbase during international competitions.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT / 12:00 AM UTC on February 26). Broadcast details include FS2, TUDN, ConcacafGO, and other regional platforms.
Weather Updates
- High temperature: 46–54°F (8–12°C)
- Evening kickoff temperature: Around 32–41°F (0–5°C)
- Conditions: Partly cloudy with a low chance of precipitation (0–3%)
- Wind: 6–12 mph from the southwest
- Humidity: 38–50%
- Other details: Chilly conditions expected; no significant disruptions, but players may need to adjust to cooler temperatures. UV index low (around 4 during the day).
Injury Report
- FC Cincinnati: Evander is out with a hamstring injury sustained in the 10th minute of their MLS opener (2-0 win vs. Atlanta on Feb 21). Kristian Fletcher remains sidelined with a knee injury. Matt Miazga is available after being absent from the injury report. No other major issues reported, though the team will monitor fatigue from a busy start to 2026.
- Universidad O&M: No major injuries reported in available sources. The squad appears at full strength, but potential fatigue from domestic play (including a 2-0 loss to Salcedo on Feb 21) could impact performance. Key players like those involved in recent league wins are expected to feature.
Key
Player Matchups
With FC Cincinnati holding a 4-0 aggregate lead from the first leg, expect rotation to manage injuries while Universidad O&M pushes for a miracle comeback. Key battles:
- Kévin Denkey (FC Cincinnati Forward) vs. Universidad O&M Defense: Denkey scored in the first leg (33′) and netted the opener in the MLS win vs. Atlanta. His physicality and finishing (2 goals in 2026) will challenge O&M’s backline, which conceded four times previously. Defenders like those who struggled in the first leg will need to tighten up.
- Ayoub Jabbari (FC Cincinnati Forward) vs. Universidad O&M Midfield: Jabbari’s brace in the first leg (86′, 90+2′) showcased his late-game threat. With Evander out, his movement could exploit midfielders, creating counters as O&M attacks.
- Tom Barlow (FC Cincinnati Forward) vs. Universidad O&M Center-Backs: Barlow opened the scoring in the first leg (12′). His positioning will test O&M’s defense, especially if Cincinnati rotates attackers.
- Universidad O&M Forwards vs. FC Cincinnati Defense: O&M needs at least four goals without reply. Their attackers, who failed to score in the first leg, will face a solid backline led by Nick Hagglund (scorer vs. Atlanta) and Matt Miazga. Goalkeeper Roman Celentano’s clean sheets in both 2026 games add pressure.
Recent Team Forms
- FC Cincinnati: WW (4-0 away win vs. O&M in CCC Leg 1; 2-0 home win vs. Atlanta in MLS). They’ve scored 6 goals in two games with clean sheets in both, highlighting strong form led by Denkey (2 goals) and Jabbari (2 goals). Substitutes like Gerardo Valenzuela stepped up after Evander’s injury.
- Universidad O&M: LL (0-4 home loss to FC Cincinnati in CCC Leg 1; 0-2 loss to Salcedo in league on Feb 21). Prior to these, they had wins like 3-0 vs. Atlético San Cristóbal and 3-1 vs. Moca FC, but defensive issues persist (conceded 6 in last two games).
Series History
This is the second meeting between the teams. FC Cincinnati won the first leg 4-0 on February 18, 2026, at Estadio Cibao FC (goals: Tom Barlow 12′, Kévin Denkey 33′, Ayoub Jabbari 86′ and 90+2′). Aggregate score: FC Cincinnati leads 4-0. O&M needs at least four goals without reply to force extra time, a daunting task.
Betting Trends
- FC Cincinnati has scored 3+ goals in both 2026 competitive matches, with over 3.5 goals in the first leg.
- Universidad O&M has conceded 6 goals in their last two games, failing to score in the first leg.
- Home teams in CCC second legs win ~85% when leading by 4+ goals after Leg 1 (historical data).
- Trend: FC Cincinnati has clean sheets in both 2026 games; O&M winless vs. MLS teams.
MATCH ODDS
O&M FC + 1400
FC Cincinnati – 800
Draw + 800
Over 3.5 – 105 Under 3.5 – 115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, February 24, 2026
NBA Game Preview: Orlando Magic (30-26) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (34-22)
Venue Location
The game will be played at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. This is the Los Angeles Lakers’ home venue, with a capacity of approximately 18,997. The arena is known for its high-energy atmosphere and celebrity sightings, providing a significant home-court advantage for the Lakers.
Tipoff is scheduled for 10:30 PM ET (7:30 PM PT / 3:30 AM UTC on February 25). Broadcast details include Spectrum SportsNet and FanDuel Sports Network Florida, with streaming available on NBA League Pass.
Injury Report
- Orlando Magic: Jalen Suggs (G) is questionable with back spasms. Franz Wagner (F) is out with a left ankle high sprain (injury management, sidelined indefinitely). No other major injuries reported, but the team will miss Wagner’s scoring and versatility.
- Los Angeles Lakers: Bronny James (G) is out on G League assignment. Adou Thiero (G) is out on G League two-way. No major injuries to rotation players reported, allowing the Lakers to field a near-full lineup.
Key
Player Matchups
With Wagner out for Orlando and the Lakers at near full strength, expect Los Angeles to exploit mismatches in the frontcourt while the Magic rely on guard play to stay competitive. Key battles include:
- Paolo Banchero (ORL Forward) vs. Anthony Davis (LAL Forward/Center): Banchero, Orlando’s leading scorer (22.8 PPG), brings physicality and playmaking (recent 16 points, 8 assists vs. Clippers). His inside-out game tests Davis’ elite defense (2.5 BPG) and scoring (recent 26 points vs. Celtics), who could dominate the paint.
- Desmond Bane (ORL Guard) vs. LeBron James (LAL Forward): Bane (recent 36 points vs. Clippers) provides shooting and creation, facing James’ all-around dominance (24.5 PPG, 8.2 APG). James’ experience might limit Bane’s efficiency.
- Wendell Carter Jr. (ORL Center) vs. Rui Hachimura (LAL Forward): Carter’s rebounding (9.2 RPG) challenges Hachimura’s versatility. This interior matchup could control second-chance points.
- Jalen Suggs (ORL Guard, questionable) vs. Austin Reaves (LAL Guard): If Suggs plays, his defense (1.8 SPG) tests Reaves’ playmaking. Suggs’ absence would shift pressure to backups.
Recent Team Forms
- Orlando Magic: WLWLW (Last 5: Win 111-109 at Clippers on Feb 22; Loss 110-113 at Suns on Feb 21; Win 131-94 at Kings on Feb 19; Loss 108-116 vs. Bucks on Feb 11; Win 120-117 vs. Jazz on Feb 7). The Magic average 116.0 PPG while allowing 112.0 over the last five, showing strong offense but road inconsistencies.
- Los Angeles Lakers: LWLWL (Last 5: Loss 89-111 vs. Celtics on Feb 22; Win 125-122 vs. Clippers on Feb 20; Win 124-104 vs. Mavericks on Feb 12; Loss 108-136 vs. Spurs on Feb 10; Loss 110-119 vs. Thunder on Feb 9). The Lakers average 115.2 PPG but allow 118.6, highlighting defensive issues amid a 2-3 stretch.
Series History
The Lakers lead the all-time regular-season series 46-26 in 72 games. In recent matchups, the Magic have split, but Los Angeles won the last meeting 118-106 on March 24, 2025. The Lakers are 11-9 in the last 20 games, with the over hitting in 3 of the last 5.
Betting Trends
Lakers are 5-5 ATS in their last 10 but 15-13 ATS at home. Over has hit in 4 of their last 6 vs. Eastern teams. Magic are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 but 12-15 ATS on the road. Under is 3-2 in their last 5 as underdogs. Head-to-head: Lakers are 11-9 in last 20; over has gone 3-2 in last 5.
Game Odds
Orlando Magic 230.5
Los Angeles Lakers – 6.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, February 23, 2026
NBA Game Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (35-23) vs. Portland Trail Blazers (28-30)
Venue Location
The game will be held at Moda Center at the Rose Quarter in Portland, Oregon. This is the Portland Trail Blazers’ home arena, with a capacity of approximately 19,393. The venue is known for its energetic crowd and modern facilities, often providing a strong home-court advantage for the Blazers.
Tipoff is scheduled for 10:00 PM ET (7:00 PM PT / 3:00 AM UTC on February 25). The game will be broadcast on Peacock, with streaming options available on NBA League Pass.
Injury Report
- Minnesota Timberwolves: Rudy Gobert (C) is day-to-day with a suspension (missed previous game). Naz Reid (C) is day-to-day with a right shoulder injury (out for February 22 game). The Timberwolves are managing frontcourt depth issues, potentially relying more on smaller lineups.
- Portland Trail Blazers: Deni Avdija (F) is questionable with a low back injury (left February 22 game early). Shaedon Sharpe (G) is out with a left calf strain. Damian Lillard (G) is out for the season with a right Achilles tendon tear. The Blazers’ backcourt and forward rotations are impacted, increasing reliance on Jerami Grant and Donovan Clingan.
Key
Player Matchups
This Northwest Division matchup pits the Timberwolves’ high-powered offense against the Blazers’ resilient defense, with injuries forcing adjustments on both sides. Key battles could decide the pace and interior control.
- Anthony Edwards (MIN Guard) vs. Jerami Grant (POR Forward): Edwards, fresh off a 28-point performance against Philadelphia (averaging 29.0 PPG, third in NBA), brings explosive scoring and athleticism. His drives test Grant’s defensive versatility (recent 23 points), who must contain Edwards without fouling.
- Julius Randle (MIN Forward) vs. Deandre Ayton (POR Center): Randle (18 points in recent loss) offers playmaking and rebounding, challenging Ayton’s interior presence (solid double-doubles). This frontcourt clash could dominate the boards.
- Jaden McDaniels (MIN Forward) vs. Anfernee Simons (POR Guard): McDaniels’ perimeter defense (19 points recently) faces Simons’ scoring (recent highs). McDaniels’ length might disrupt Portland’s outside shooting.
- Rudy Gobert (MIN Center, day-to-day) vs. Donovan Clingan (POR Center): If Gobert plays, his rim protection (recent 22 points, 17 rebounds) tests Clingan’s rookie potential (23 points, 13 rebounds in win). Clingan’s energy could exploit any Gobert absence.
Recent Team Forms
- Minnesota Timberwolves: L W L W L (Last 5: Loss 108-135 vs. Philadelphia on Feb 22; Win 122-111 vs. Dallas on Feb 20; Loss 105-118 at Phoenix on Feb 18; Win 128-126 at Toronto on Feb 4; Loss 115-119 vs. New Orleans on Feb 6). The Timberwolves average 119.7 PPG (3rd in NBA) but allow 114.7 PPG recently, showing offensive firepower but defensive lapses without key bigs.
- Portland Trail Blazers: W L W W L (Last 5: Win 92-77 at Phoenix on Feb 22; Loss 103-157 vs. Denver on Feb 20; Win 135-119 at Utah on Feb 8; Win 122-115 vs. Memphis on Feb 7; Loss 109-133 vs. Minnesota on Feb 11). The Blazers average 116.1 PPG but allow 119.0 PPG, with strong wins against depleted teams but blowout losses highlighting inconsistencies.
Series History
The Portland Trail Blazers lead the all-time regular-season series 92-49 in 141 games. In recent matchups, the Timberwolves have won three straight: 133-109 on February 11, 2026; 118-114 on October 22, 2025; 114-98 on February 8, 2025. Minnesota is 3-0 straight up this season against Portland, with the over hitting in two of three games.
Betting Trends
Minnesota is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 but 4-1 ATS as favorites of 7.5+. Over has hit in 3 of their last 5 road games. Portland is 3-2 ATS in their last 5 but 2-3 ATS at home. Under is 11-5 in their last 16 games. Head-to-head: Timberwolves are 3-0 ATS in the last 3 meetings; over has gone 2-1.
Game Odds
Minnesota Timberwolves – 5.5
Portland Trail Blazers 237.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, February 23, 2026
NBA Game Preview: Boston Celtics (37-19) vs. Phoenix Suns (33-25)
Venue Location
The match will be held at Footprint Center (also known as PHX Arena) in Phoenix, Arizona. This is the Phoenix Suns’ home venue, with a capacity of approximately 17,071. The arena is renowned for its modern design and enthusiastic crowd, which often provides a significant home-court advantage.
Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT / 2:00 AM UTC on February 25). The game will be broadcast on NBCS-BOS, AZFamily, and Suns+.
Injury Report
- Boston Celtics: Jayson Tatum (F) is out due to an Achilles injury (expected to be out until at least March 4). No other major injuries reported, but the team is managing depth without their star forward.
- Phoenix Suns: Devin Booker (G) is out with a hip strain (re-evaluated in one week). Dillon Brooks (F) is out with a fractured left hand (indefinite). Jordan Goodwin (G) is out with a calf strain. Grayson Allen (G) is day-to-day with a right ankle sprain. Jalen Green (G) is questionable with a right hamstring issue. Cole Anthony (G) is out (not injury-related).
Key
Player Matchups
This game features a clash of Eastern and Western Conference contenders, but injuries shift the focus to supporting casts. The Celtics’ balanced attack will test the Suns’ depleted lineup.
- Jaylen Brown (BOS Guard/Forward) vs. Bradley Beal (PHX Guard): With Tatum out, Brown (averaging 23.8 PPG) becomes Boston’s primary scorer. His athleticism and mid-range game challenge Beal (20.5 PPG), who must step up without Booker.
- Derrick White (BOS Guard) vs. Kevin Durant (PHX Forward): White’s defense (1.8 SPG) and playmaking face Durant’s scoring prowess (27.1 PPG). This mismatch could highlight Durant’s ability to exploit switches.
- Kristaps Porziņģis (BOS Center) vs. Jusuf Nurkić (PHX Center): Porziņģis (19.5 PPG, 2.1 BPG) provides spacing and rim protection, testing Nurkić’s rebounding (10.2 RPG). Porziņģis’ three-point shooting could pull Nurkić out of the paint.
- Jrue Holiday (BOS Guard) vs. Jusuf Nurkić (PHX Center): Holiday’s veteran savvy (12.4 APG) will orchestrate Boston’s offense against Phoenix’s interior defense.
Recent Team Forms
- Boston Celtics: WWWLW (Last 5: Win 111-89 at LAL on Feb 22; Win 121-110 at GSW on Feb 19; Win 124-105 vs CHI on Feb 11; Loss 89-111 vs NYK on Feb 8; Win 98-96 vs MIA on Feb 6). The Celtics average 114.6 PPG while allowing 102.4 over the last five, riding a three-game win streak with strong defense.
- Phoenix Suns: LWLWL (Last 5: Loss 77-92 vs POR on Feb 22; Win 113-110 vs ORL on Feb 21; Loss 94-121 at SAS on Feb 19; Loss 109-136 vs OKC on Feb 11; Win 120-111 vs DAL on Feb 10). The Suns average 102.6 PPG while allowing 112.0 over the last five, struggling with consistency amid injuries.
Series History
The Boston Celtics lead the all-time regular-season series 79-60 against the Phoenix Suns in 139 games. In recent matchups, Boston has dominated, winning four straight, including a 132-102 victory on March 26, 2025, and a 123-103 win on April 4, 2025. The Celtics are 2-0 this season against the Suns.
Betting Trends
Boston is 15-9 ATS as a 6.5+ point favorite and 3-2 ATS in their last 5 road games. Over has hit in 4 of their last 6 vs. losing teams. Phoenix is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 and 4-6 ATS at home. Under is 3-2 in their last 5 as underdogs. Head-to-head: Celtics are 2-0 ATS this season; over has gone 2-0 (average 235 PPG).
Game Odds
Boston Celtics – 7.5
Phoenix Suns 210.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, February 23, 2026
