Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Mikey Balhan Sports
Home Blog Page 491

$5.6M HISA–Churchill Downs Clash Threatens to Shake Up Kentucky Derby Betting

Agate Editor
-
0
$5.6M HISA–Churchill Downs Clash Threatens to Shake Up Kentucky Derby Betting

• Regulator alleges $5.6M in unpaid assessments
• Churchill Downs calls the action “overreach” and denies wrongdoing
• Escalating fight could affect simulcasting and Derby wagering

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) has initiated enforcement proceedings against Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI), accusing the company of failing to pay $5.6 million in 2025 assessment fees—an escalating conflict that could jeopardize wagering on the Kentucky Derby.

According to a February 18 notice of hearing, HISA claims CDI has refused to pay “one cent” of the required assessments tied to Churchill Downs Racetrack, Turfway Park, Ellis Park, and Presque Isle Downs. A hearing before a HISA board panel is set for March 11.

HISA argues that CDI has continued to benefit from national safety and anti‑doping oversight while refusing to fund the system, saying the company’s conduct “demonstrate[s] the nature of freeloading.”

Under federal rules, HISA can bar a racetrack from conducting covered races for each day fees remain unpaid. If the dispute intensifies, the Authority could also ask the Federal Trade Commission to restrict simulcasting—potentially limiting Kentucky Derby wagering to on‑track bettors only, a move that would dramatically shrink handle on one of the sport’s biggest days.

CDI Pushes Back: ‘A Mischaracterization’

Churchill Downs rejected the allegations, saying it “will not accept HISA’s mischaracterization of our actions,” and accused the Authority of a “troubling pattern of overreach” that undermines industry cooperation.

The company is already suing HISA over similar enforcement threats. Filed in December 2024, CDI’s lawsuit argues that the assessments were “illegally imposed” and violate both the U.S. Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act. That case remains active.

At the center of the dispute is HISA’s revised fee formula. Previously based solely on the number of starts, the new model splits costs 50‑50 between starts and purse levels. CDI, which offers some of the richest purses in the country, argues the change disproportionately increases its financial burden.

A Broader Industry Flashpoint

HISA was created under the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act, signed into law in 2020, to implement uniform national rules for Thoroughbred racing. While supporters say the reforms modernize a fragmented regulatory landscape, some tracks and state commissions have resisted the system, citing cost, autonomy, and the absence of federal funding.

The Churchill Downs fight is now one of the most consequential tests of HISA’s authority—and its outcome could reshape how the sport is regulated and financed nationwide.

Olympic #NHLStats Standouts

NHL Editor
-
0
Olympic #NHLStats Standouts

A sampling of #NHLStats from some of the top NHL performers at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Visit Records.NHL.com for complete coverage of the return of NHL players to the Olympic Winter Games.

Connor McDavid | Edmonton Oilers | Team Canada

* McDavid was named MVP, Best Forward and to the All-Star Team after claiming a silver medal at his first Olympics, setting single-tournament records for assists and points by an NHL player (2-11—13 in 6 GP). He posted five straight multi-point games, the first player ever to do so at Olympics with NHL participation. He served as “captain” in the last two games of the tournament and is set to become the third player in NHL history to record at least nine career 100-point seasons, following Wayne Gretzky (15) and Mario Lemieux (10)

Macklin Celebrini | San Jose Sharks | Team Canada

* At age 19, Celebrini became the youngest NHL player to skate for Team Canada at the Olympics and proceeded to finish second in tournament scoring behind only Connor McDavid. Celebrini posted the most goals (5) and points (10) ever by a teenager at Olympics with NHL players and became the first NHL player to score a penalty-shot goal at the Olympics. Celebrini has the Sharks in the hunt for their first playoff berth since 2019 and ranks fourth in NHL scoring – only two teenagers in League history have finished among the top five in the NHL in points: Wayne Gretzky (1979-80) and Sidney Crosby (2005-06 & 2006-07).

Cale Makar | Colorado Avalanche | Team Canada

* Makar led Canadian defensemen with six points – including the team’s only goal in the gold medal game – to match the benchmark for points by an NHL defenseman for Team Canada in one Olympics. Named to the tournament All-Star Team, Makar is a two-time Norris Trophy winner and the highest-scoring NHL defenseman since 2019-20 when he made his regular season debut.

***

Martin Necas | Colorado Avalanche | Team Czechia

* Led Team Czechia in scoring at the Olympics (3-5—8 in 5 GP) and ranks second on the Avalanche in points this season.

David Pastrnak | Boston Bruins | Team Czechia

* Tied for second in Team Czechia scoring at the Olympics (2-3—5) and has the second most NHL goals all-time among Czech players behind Jaromir Jagr (he also ranks third in points among Czechs).

***

Joel Armia | Los Angeles Kings | Team Finland

* Armia led his country with eight points in Milan, the most by a Finnish player at Olympics with NHL players in 20 years. He capped his first Olympics with three points in the bronze medal-clinching game, a first by a Finnish NHLer in a medal game and one shy of the most points by any NHLer in one contest with an Olympic medal at stake (Joe Sakic had 2-2—4 in the 2002 gold medal game for CAN).

Sebastian Aho | Carolina Hurricanes | Team Finland

* Aho led the team with four goals, tied for second among all players in the tournament, and opened the scoring in Team Finland’s finale to help secure the bronze medal. Just before his Olympic debut, Aho became the fourth Finnish player in NHL history with 10 career 20-goal seasons, after Teemu Selanne (17), Jari Kurri (13) and Aleksander Barkov (10).

Mikko Rantanen | Dallas Stars | Team Finland

* Averaged more than a point-per-game during his first Olympics (2-4—6 in 5 GP) but missed the bronze medal game due to injury. He is the highest-scoring active Finnish player in terms of NHL goals and ranks second behind current NHLers from the country in assists and points (behind Aleksander Barkov on each list). He has more playoff points than any other active Finnish player and ranks third all-time among players from the country.

Juuse Saros | Nashville Predators | Team Finland

* Saros was the only goaltender to play every minute of action for his team in Milan, logging the most minutes played of any player at the event (360:27) and finishing his first Olympics with a .940 save percentage, 1.66 goals-against average and four victories – plus a bronze medal around his neck.

***

Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | Team Germany

* Led Team Germany with seven points at the Olympics, the most ever by a German player in a single tournament with NHL players (ahead of two players with six points, including teammate Tim Stützle: 4-2—6 in 5 GP). Draisaitl is the highest-scoring German player in NHL history, with more than double the points of the next highest scorer. His father, Peter, participated in the Olympic Winter Games in 1988, 1992 and 1998.

Tim Stützle | Ottawa Senators | Team Germany

* Led Team Germany in goals at the Olympics (4 in 5 GP), scoring in every preliminary round game to help his nation secure its best finish at an Olympics with NHL participation (6th). Stützle (No. 3 in 2020), tied with Leon Draisaitl (No. 3 in 2014) as the highest-selected German national in NHL Draft history, is Ottawa’s leading scorer this season and already ranks fourth in League history for goals and points among German players.

Moritz Seider | Detroit Red Wings | Team Germany

* Led all skaters with an average of more than 26 minutes per game during the Olympics – playing nearly half of each contest – and has never missed an NHL game since entering the League. Seider is the only German defenseman ever picked in Round 1 of the NHL Draft (No. 6 in 2019; based on nationality).

***

Juraj Slafkovský | Montreal Canadiens | Team Slovakia

* Slafkovský (4-4—8) led Team Slovakia to a second straight Olympic bronze medal game and became the second men’s hockey player in Olympic history to be named to the tournament all-star team multiple times (2022 and 2026), joining Teemu Selanne of Finland (2006 and 2014). He has already set a new NHL career high for goals (21) and is on track to do the same for assists and points in 2025-26.

Dalibor Dvorsky | St. Louis Blues | Team Slovakia

* Dvorsky had six points at the Olympics, the most ever by an NHL rookie and the most ever by any Blues representative. His rookie achievement put him ahead of Alex Ovechkin (5-0—5 in 2006 w/ RUS), Sami Vatanen (0-5—5 in 2014 w/ FIN), Olli Määttä (3-2—5 in 2014 w/ FIN) as well as teammate Pavol Regenda (3-2—5 in 2026).  

Pavol Regenda | San Jose Sharks | Team Slovakia

* Regenda shared second on Team Slovakia in goals (3) and ranked third in points (5). An undrafted forward, Regenda scored in four of his first five NHL games in 2025-26 – highlighted by his first career hat trick Jan. 3 – and was one of two NHL rookies representing Slovakia (also Dalibor Dvorsky). 

***

Lucas Raymond | Detroit Red Wings | Team Sweden

* Led Team Sweden in points (1-8—9) and came within one point of matching the highest single-tournament output by a Swedish player at Olympics with NHL players. He is Detroit’s scoring leader and is on pace to set a new career high in points.

Rasmus Dahlin | Buffalo Sabres | Team Sweden

* Led Team Sweden in average time on ice, skating more than 21 minutes per game, and also topped  Swedish blueliners in scoring during his second Olympics – his other appearance was in 2018, at age 17 (months before being the first Swedish defenseman ever taken No. 1 in the NHL Draft). Captain of the Sabres, he ranks second in team scoring (tied) and has Buffalo in its best positioning in the NHL standings in more than a decade as they seek their first playoff berth since 2011.

***

Roman Josi | Nashville Predators | Team Switzerland

* Josi captained Team Switzerland at his second Olympics (also 2014) and co-led Swiss defensemen in scoring (2-2—4 in 5 GP). He is one of the longest tenured current NHL captains (9th season), the highest-scoring Swiss player in NHL history and the only player from the country to win an individual NHL award for on-ice accolades (2019-20 Norris Trophy).

Timo Meier | New Jersey Devils | Team Switzerland

* Had six points at the Olympics, tied for the most by a Swiss player during a tournament with NHL players. Meier is the only Swiss player in League history with three 30-goal seasons, holds the nation’s benchmark for single-season NHL goals (40 in 2022-23) and is the only Swiss player to score five goals in an NHL game (Jan. 17, 2022).

Nico Hischier | New Jersey Devils | Team Switzerland

* Captain and scoring leader for the Devils, Hischier had four points in his first Olympics including three during his first playoff game at the tournament. Hischier is the only No. 1 pick from Switzerland in NHL Draft history and one of two Swiss captains in the NHL (also Roman Josi).

***

Quinn Hughes | Minnesota Wild | Team USA

* Hughes set or tied records for assists (7) and points (8; tied) by an American at Olympics with NHL players and became the first NHL defenseman to score an OT goal during a knockout game at the Olympics (QF vs. SWE). He assisted on the first goal in the gold medal game and was named “Best Defender” and to the tournament All-Star team. He leads NHL defensemen in assists (31) and points (34; tied) since making his debut with the Wild on Dec. 14.

Jack Hughes | New Jersey Devils | Team USA

* Hughes led Team USA in goals (4) and ranked second in points (7; tied) among American players, behind his brother Quinn. He became the first American to score an overtime goal in an Olympic gold medal game, securing the country’s first Olympic gold in 46 years. He is among the highest scoring Devils players since entering the League in 2019-20.

Connor Hellebuyck | Winnipeg Jets | Team USA

* Hellebuyck posted the highest save percentage (.956) and best goals-against average (1.18) by an American at an Olympics with NHL players, capping the performance with a headline-making 41-save performance in the gold medal game that included a third-period stick save to rob Canada of a seemingly open net as well as breakaway stops on tournament scoring leaders Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini. The reigning Hart Trophy and Vezina Trophy winner posted the most saves in a medal game during Olympics with NHL players.

Sports wagering shows a three percent decrease in year over year December reporting from Arizona Department of Gaming

Gaming Editor
-
0
Sports wagering shows a three percent decrease in year over year December reporting from Arizona Department of Gaming

Bettors in Arizona wagered approximately $822 million on sports and events in December of 2025, according to a newly released report by the Arizona Department of Gaming. This represents an approximate three percent decrease year-over-year when compared to December of 2024.

“Today’s report closes out the 2025 calendar year for Arizona sports betting figures, with the year exceeding nine billion dollars in event wagering activity,” said Jackie Johnson, Department Director. “Additionally, legal, regulated event wagering allowed the state of Arizona to collect more than $53 million in privilege fees for the calendar year.”

The state collected approximately $6.6 million in privilege fees for the month of December. Since the launch of legal sports betting in Arizona, people have wagered over $31 billion, generating over $165 million in event wagering privilege fees for the state.

For fiscal year 2026 year-to-date, regulated event wagering and fantasy sports have generated approximately $33 million in privilege fees, including $32.3 million from event wagering and $774,167 from fantasy sports.

The Department publishes monthly Event Wagering and Fantasy Sports Revenue Reports on its website, reflecting figures from operators licensed by the Department.

NHL Morning Skate – February 23, 2026

NHL Editor
-
0
NHL Morning Skate – February 23, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Feb. 23, 2026

* With the return to the 2025-26 NHL regular season two days away – with national telecasts on TNT, Sportsnet and TVA Sports during an eight-game slate Wednesday – NHL Stats takes a deep dive into the Western Conference and a few of its star players heading into the home stretch of the campaign. The Eastern Conference will take center stage in the NHL Morning Skate on Tuesday.

* Five of six players from the Olympic All-Star Team play out of the Western Conference, including Best Defender Quinn Hughes, MVP and Best Forward Connor McDavid, Best Goalkeeper Connor Hellebuyck and teenage goals leader Macklin Celebrini.
 

* Olympic silver medalists Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Devon Toews and the Avalanche have occupied first place in the NHL standings for 93 consecutive game days dating to Nov. 1, but the surging Wild and Stars have closed in on Colorado, setting up a tight three-horse race for the Central Division crown heading into the final seven weeks of the regular season.

* Vegas will welcome home five players from the Olympic gold medal game – including Americans Jack Eichel and Noah Hanifin – as it looks to build on its lead in the Pacific Division, where only five points separate first and fourth place.

AVALANCHE LOOK TO FEND OFF WILD, STARS IN CENTRAL DIVISION RACE

The Avalanche (37-9-9, 83 points) have led by as many as 12 points atop the standings (Jan. 10-11) but two Central Division foes are hot on their heels with the Wild (34-14-10, 78 points) and Stars (34-14-9, 77 points) both within six points coming back from the break. Meanwhile, the Mammoth (30-23-4, 64 points) return to play occupying the first Wild Card spot in the West and will look to clinch their first berth into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. All four of those clubs are returning with at least one Olympic gold medal winner.

* Colorado, which had four players competing in the gold medal game on Sunday including Brock Nelson who added to his family’s Olympic lore, has occupied first place in the League standings for 93 consecutive game days since Nov. 1. The Avalanche can become the first Western Conference club to hold top spot in the NHL for at least 100 straight game days since the 2007-08 Red Wings (124 days).

* The Wild own the third-best point total in the League (16-5-5, 37 points) and by far the best points percentage in the Western Conference (.712) since Dec. 14 when Quinn Hughes made his team debut. Hughes entered his first Olympics riding a franchise record 10-game assist streak – and during the break added a gold medal and “Best Defender” honors to his resume following his record-setting performance in Milan – with Minnesota posting an 8-1-1 record across that span to return from the break on pace for its second season with at least 110 points.
 

* The Stars return from the break with the longest active winning streak in the Western Conference (6-0-0 since Jan. 23), the second-most Olympic medalists (6) and as one of four clubs to have a player claim a medal of each color – Jake Oettinger secured gold, Thomas Harley a silver and bronze for Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz, Esa Lindell and Mikko Rantanen (also CAR, COL & FLA).


* The Mammoth can join the Golden Knights (2017-18; 1st season) and Kraken (2022-23; 2nd season) as the third straight new NHL franchise to qualify for the postseason within their first two seasons.

PACIFIC DIVISION STILL UP FOR GRABS

Six teams have ranked first in the Pacific Division in 2025-26, with its current leader the Golden Knights, occupying top spot the longest (64 days). Vegas (27-16-14, 68 points) has paced its division continuously since Jan. 4, but still has Edmonton (28-22-8, 64 points), Seattle (27-20-9, 63 points) and Anaheim (30-23-3, 63 points; WC2) all within five points of them. All four of those clubs have topped the Pacific this season

* Anaheim’s 40 game days atop its division are the most this season by a team that did not qualify for the postseason in 2024-25. The Ducks last made the playoffs in 2017-18 and are looking to end the League’s fourth-longest active postseason drought with the continued success of their youth, including rookie standout Beckett Sennecke (18-26—44). The forward can become the fifth Ducks rookie to score 20 goals in a season and needs 18 points in Anaheim’s final 26 games to pass Trevor Zegras (61 in 2021-22) for the franchise’s single-season rookie scoring record.

* Also lurking in the Pacific Division are the Sharks (27-24-4, 58 points) – led by 19-year-old Olympic All-Star forward Macklin Celebrini – and Kings (23-19-14, 60 points), the latter of whom welcome new star power in the form of newly acquired forward Artemi Panarin. Panarin(19-38—57 in 52 GP) will notch his 10th career 20-goal season with his first tally in a Kings uniform and is set to become the first undrafted player with as many such campaigns since Martin St. Louis (11).
 

WESTERN CONFERENCE STARS TO WATCH IN RETURN FROM OLYMPICS
Several of the Western Conference’s star players return from the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 decorated in medals and ready to resume their pursuit of NHL hardware, including the most coveted prize of all: the Stanley Cup. Five of six members of the Olympic All-Star Team reside in the NHL’s Western Conference, as do eight of the League’s top 10 scorers as well as three of the five highest-producing defensemen.

* Olympic All-Star, Best Forward and MVP Connor McDavid, who set the record for most points in an Olympic tournament with NHL players, leads the NHL in scoring and is within four points of his ninth career 100-point season (34-62—96 in 58 GP) – he can tie Wayne Gretzky for the most in Oilers history. The Edmonton captain can be the first NHL player to 100 points in a season for the sixth time his career, which would match Mario Lemieux and Phil Esposito for the second most behind Wayne Gretzky (9x).


* Olympic All-Star and Best Defender Quinn Hughes, who registered the most assists by an NHL defenseman in an Olympic tournament, will look to extend his point streak to 11 games when he returns to the Wild and can match Mark Howe (11 GP in 1979-80 w/ HFD) for the second longest by a defenseman in their first campaign with a franchise. Hughes also has multiple points in each of his past three NHL games and needs one more multi-point outing to record 10 with the club. He and fellow Olympic All-Star Cale Makar – tied with 57 points apiece this season – are likely to clash again Thursday when the Avalanche host the Wild.
 

* Olympic All-Star Macklin Celebrini had a tournament to remember, topping all players in goals (5; tied for the most by a Canadian at Olympics with NHL players) and setting a new mark for most points by teenager in an Olympic tournament with NHL participation (10). He returns to the Sharks within two goals of his first 30-goal season (28-53—81 in 55 GP). The 19-year-old, who has four multi-goal NHL games in 2025-26, can become just the third teenager to record a 30-goal campaign in the past 14 years, following Patrik Laine (44 in 2017-18 & 36 in 2016-17) and Auston Matthews (36 in 2016-17).


* Olympic All-Star and Best Goalkeeper Connor Hellebucyk – the reigning Hart Trophy winner and repeat Vezina Trophy recipient – returns to the Jets looking to power the 2024-25 Presidents’ Trophy winners back into a playoff spot (11 point back). Only one team has made the playoffs after being 11-plus points back 50-plus games into their season (2014-15 Senators).


QUICK CLICKS

* Jack Hughes becomes U.S. hockey hero by scoring ‘Golden Goal’ against Canada
* Connor Hellebuyck was ‘beyond belief’ for Team USA in gold medal game, Mike Richter says
* Honoring Johnny Gaudreau ‘meant everything’ to Team USA
* NHL EDGE stats behind Jack Hughes’ prowess at 2026 Olympics
* NHL players tune in to cheer on teammates at ‘incredible’ Olympics

2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Real Espana vs. Los Angeles Football Club

Agate Editor
-
0
2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Real Espana vs. Los Angeles Football Club

Venue Location

The match will be held at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA. This is LAFC’s home venue, with a capacity of 22,000. The pitch is natural grass, and the stadium is known for its intimate, energetic atmosphere during continental competitions.

Kickoff is scheduled for

7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM MT / 3:00 AM UTC on February 25). Broadcast details include FS2, TUDN, ConcacafGO, and OneSoccer in select regions.

Weather Updates

  • High temperature: 72–77°F (22–25°C)
  • Evening kickoff temperature: Around 55–60°F (13–16°C)
  • Conditions: Mostly cloudy with a low chance of light rain (10–20%)
  • Wind: 4–7 mph from the southwest
  • Humidity: 55–65%
  • Other details: Mild and comfortable for soccer, but potential for a slight chill as the sun sets. No major disruptions expected; UV index moderate (around 5 during the day).

Injury Report

  • LAFC: Several key absences. OUT: Lorenzo Dellavalle (cruciate ligament tear/leg), Jeremy Ebobisse (leg), Igor Jesus (cruciate ligament tear/leg, out until mid-May), Aaron Long (Achilles tendon rupture/leg), Jacob Shaffelburg (groin surgery/pelvis/groin, out until late March). The team has depth but will miss defensive and midfield options; no new injuries from recent matches.
  • Real España: No major injuries reported. The squad appears at near-full strength, with key players like Jack Jean-Baptiste (scorer in the first leg) available. However, fatigue from a busy domestic schedule could be a factor, including their recent Honduran Liga Nacional match on February 21 against Lobos UPNFM.

Key

Player Matchups

With LAFC holding a 6-1 aggregate lead from the first leg, expect the hosts to control possession while Real España pushes desperately for goals. Key battles:

  • Denis Bouanga (LAFC Forward) vs. Real España Defense: Bouanga’s hat-trick in the first leg (penalty, assisted by Son, and another clinical finish) highlights his threat. His speed and finishing (4 goals in 2026, including one in MLS) will challenge Real España’s backline, led by defenders like Devron García and Franklin Flores, who struggled to contain him previously.
  • Son Heung-Min (LAFC Midfielder/Forward) vs. Real España Midfield: Son’s debut was electric with a goal (penalty) and three assists (to Martínez, Bouanga, and Tillman). His vision and pace could dismantle midfielders like Wisdom Quaye and Jimy Roque, especially on counters. If Son exploits spaces, expect more goals.
  • David Martínez (LAFC Forward) vs. Real España Center-Backs: Martínez scored in the first leg (assisted by Son) and drew the opening penalty, plus a goal in the MLS opener. His movement will test the Hondurans’ defense, which conceded five first-half goals last time.
  • Jack Jean-Baptiste (Real España Forward) vs. LAFC Defense: Jean-Baptiste scored Real España’s lone goal in the first leg. He’ll need to beat LAFC’s backline, including Jesús Murillo and Maxime Chanot (with Ryan Porteous and Eddie Segura as options amid injuries). LAFC’s defense kept a clean sheet in their MLS opener.

Recent Team Forms

  • LAFC: WW (6-1 away win vs. Real España in CCC Leg 1; 3-0 home win vs. Inter Miami in MLS). They’ve scored 9 goals in two games with a clean sheet in MLS, showcasing lethal attacking form led by Bouanga (4 goals in 2026) and Son (1 goal, 3 assists). Substitutes like Nathan Ordaz (assist in CCC, goal in MLS) add depth.
  • Real España: WL (2-1 home win vs. Choloma in league; 1-6 home loss to LAFC in CCC Leg 1). They were in strong domestic form before the thrashing, with a 4-2-0 start to Clausura (including a 1-1 draw vs. Juticalpa and 4-1 win over Olancho earlier in February), but the first leg exposed defensive vulnerabilities (5 goals conceded in first half). Form is shaky entering this must-win scenario.

Series History

This is the second meeting between the clubs. LAFC dominated the first leg on February 17, 2026, winning 6-1 in San Pedro Sula (goals: Bouanga x3, Martínez, Son, Tillman; Jean-Baptiste for Real España). Aggregate: LAFC leads 6-1. Real España needs at least six goals without reply to advance outright, or five to force extra time—a near-impossible task.

Betting Trends

  • LAFC has scored 3+ goals in both 2026 competitive matches, with over 3.5 goals in each.
  • Real España has conceded 7 goals in their last two games (including 6 to LAFC), failing to keep a clean sheet recently.
  • Home teams in CCC second legs win 85% when leading by 5+ goals after Leg 1 (based on historical data).
  • Trend: LAFC unbeaten in season openers (9-0-0 in MLS history); Real España winless vs. MLS teams in continental play.

MATCH ODDS

Real Espana                        + 1400

LA Football Club               – 800

Draw                                     + 800

Over 3.5 – 105                   Under 3.5 – 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, February 23, 2026

2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Atlético Ottawa vs. Nashville SC

Agate Editor
-
0
2026 CONCACAF Gold Cup Match Preview: Atlético Ottawa vs. Nashville SC

Venue Location

The match will take place at GEODIS Park in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. This is Nashville SC’s home stadium, with a capacity of approximately 30,000. The pitch is natural grass, and the venue is known for its vibrant atmosphere during high-stakes games.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM CT (8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT). Note that some sources list the UTC time as 01:00 on February 25, which aligns with 7:00 PM CT on February 24.

Weather Updates

  • High temperature: Around 45–50°F (7–10°C)
  • Low temperature: Around 27–30°F (-3–-1°C) by evening kickoff
  • Conditions: Partly cloudy to cloudy, with a low chance of precipitation (0–10%)
  • Wind: 5–12 mph from the northwest
  • Humidity: Approximately 47%
  • Other details: No significant weather disruptions expected, but it will be chilly—fans should dress warmly. UV index low (around 4 during the day).

Injury Report

  • Nashville SC: No reported injuries or suspensions heading into the match. The team is at full strength, with key players like Sam Surridge, Hany Mukhtar, and Woobens Pacius available after strong performances in recent games.
  • Atlético Ottawa: Defender Amer Didic is ruled out for several months due to a fractured leg sustained late in the 2025 season. No other major injuries reported, but the team has a thin roster with only 11 players confirmed under contract for 2026, potentially impacting depth. Goalkeeper Nathan Ingham and midfielder Alberto Zapater are on expiring deals but expected to be available.

Key

Player Matchups

This second leg features several intriguing battles, especially given Nashville’s 2-0 aggregate lead from the first leg. Key matchups to watch:

  • Sam Surridge (Nashville SC Forward) vs. Atlético Ottawa Defense: Surridge, who scored in the first leg and netted a brace in Nashville’s MLS opener (4-1 win over New England), will test Ottawa’s backline. With 24 goals in MLS last season, his physicality and finishing could exploit gaps left by the absent Amer Didic. Ottawa’s defenders like Brett Levis and Sergei Kozlovskiy will need to contain him to keep the tie alive.
  • Woobens Pacius (Nashville SC Forward) vs. His Former Team: Pacius, who played for Ottawa before joining Nashville, scored the opener in the first leg at his old stadium. Expect emotional intensity as he faces familiar faces like midfielders Manny Aparicio and Abou Sissoko. His knowledge of Ottawa’s style could give Nashville an edge in transitions.
  • Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC Midfielder) vs. Atlético Ottawa Midfield: The former MLS MVP’s creativity (assists in recent games) will challenge Ottawa’s engine room, including Gabriel Antinoro and Jean-Aniel Assi. Mukhtar’s ability to unlock defenses could lead to more goals if Ottawa pushes forward chasing the aggregate deficit.
  • Ballou Tabla (Atlético Ottawa Forward) vs. Nashville SC Defense: Tabla, a key returning player for Ottawa, has pace and dribbling skills to trouble Nashville’s backline, led by Jack Maher and Josh Bauer. If Ottawa mounts a comeback, Tabla’s one-on-one battles could be pivotal.

Recent Team Forms

  • Nashville SC: WW (2-0 win at Atlético Ottawa in CCC Leg 1; 4-1 home win vs. New England in MLS). They’ve scored 6 goals in two games, showing strong attacking form under their revamped squad. Goalkeeper Brian Schwake earned his first MLS win, and newcomers like Warren Madrigal (goal + two assists in MLS opener) have integrated well.
  • Atlético Ottawa: L (0-2 home loss to Nashville in CCC Leg 1). Prior to this, they were on a 12-game unbeaten run dating back to August 2025 in CPL, including a dramatic bicycle-kick winner in the final. However, their 2026 form is untested beyond this tie, with preseason focus on defending their CPL title.

Series History

This is only the second meeting between the teams, as they had no prior head-to-head before this CONCACAF Champions Cup tie. Nashville SC won the first leg 2-0 on February 17, 2026, in Hamilton, Ontario (goals from Woobens Pacius and Sam Surridge). Aggregate score: Nashville leads 2-0. Ottawa needs at least two goals without reply to force extra time, or more to advance outright.

Betting Trends

  • Nashville SC has seen over 2.5 goals in 8 of their last 9 matches across all competitions, aligning with their high-scoring start to 2026 (6 goals in 2 games).
  • Atlético Ottawa has scored in 17 of their last 19 home games but struggled offensively in the first leg (0 goals). They’ve conceded in recent outings and are winless against MLS sides historically.
  • Home teams in CONCACAF Champions Cup second legs have won 70% of ties when leading by 2+ goals after Leg 1 (based on recent tournaments).
  • Public betting leans heavily toward Nashville (80% of bets on them to win), with sharp money on over 2.5 goals due to Ottawa’s need to attack.
  • Trend to watch: Nashville has kept clean sheets in both 2026 games so far; Ottawa has a +1.5 handicap cover in 24 straight home games (though this is away).

MATCH ODDS

Atlético Ottawa                + 900

Nashville SC                       – 400

Draw                                     + 500

Over 2.5 – 120                   Under 2.5 – 105

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, February 23, 2026

Parsons, Cooper Post Double-Doubles as Supernovas Fall to Mojo in Five Sets

Agate Editor
-
0
Parsons, Cooper Post Double-Doubles as Supernovas Fall to Mojo in Five Sets

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – The Omaha Supernovas, the world’s leading professional volleyball franchise, received double-digit point performances from five players, including 18 apiece from outside hitters Sarah Parsons and Reagan Cooper, but fell to the San Diego Mojo (5-7), 25-23, 22-25, 25-19, 18-25, 15-12, in a five-set marathon Sunday night at Viejas Arena before a crowd of 1,788.

Dealing with the absence of star outside hitter Brooke Nuneviller, Parsons stepped up for her third double-double of the season with 15 kills and a team-high 18 digs. The former AVCA Player of the Year also added two blocks and an ace. Cooper tallied her first double-double since Jan. 30 against San Diego, posting a team-high 16 kills and 14 digs to go along with one block and one ace.

Opposite Emily Londot added a double-double with 11 kills and 12 digs, plus one block. Merritt Beason provided a spark off the bench, recording eight kills on a .375 hitting percentage with two blocks and four digs.

Middle blocker Toyosi Onabanjo finished with eight kills, while Kiara Reinhardt added six kills, a team-high three blocks and her team-leading 13th ace of the season. Setter Sydney Hilley totaled 42 assists and 16 digs, while libero Elena Oglivie recorded 14 digs and nine assists in her Supernovas debut.

As a team, Omaha (7-6) hit .205 with 64 kills, 10 blocks, four aces, 91 digs and 63 assists.

Opposite Morgan Lewis led San Diego with a match-high 20 points on 17 kills and three blocks. Grace Loberg totaled 18 points on 16 kills and two blocks, plus 19 digs. McKenna Vicini added 10 kills on a .429 hitting percentage with three blocks to anchor the middle. The Mojo outhit the Supernovas .241 to .205 and finished with 70 kills, 12 blocks, 100 digs and 67 assists.

The Supernovas return to Omaha to face the Atlanta Vibe on Thursday, Feb. 26, for Galaxy Night on Kiewit Court at the CHI Health Center. First serve is set for 7 p.m. CST on the Roku Sports Channel and the Supernovas Radio Network.

Key Notes

  • Sunday marks just the fourth time in franchise history that an opponent didn’t ace the Supernovas and the first since April 25, 2025, vs. Vegas.
  • Elena Oglivie’s nine assists are a new professional career high.
  • Three of the four double figure point performances from Merritt Beason this season has come against San Diego.
  • Sunday’s defeat snaps the Supernovas seven-match road winning streak and marks the first road loss for the Supernovas since Omaha’s last trip to Viejas Arena on April 12, 2025.
  • Omaha’s current three-game slide ties the franchise record set earlier this season, but the team responded with a five-match winning streak after that.
  • The Supernovas move to 9-10 all-time in five-set matches, including a 2-4 mark this season.
  • Omaha also moves to 1-4 at Viejas Arena, its worst record among all MLV opponent venues.

Set 1: Parsons put the Supernovas on the board first with a two-handed shove that scrambled the San Diego defense. Reinhardt and Cooper traded kills with the Mojo, but back-to-back San Diego hitting errors gave Omaha an early 5-3 lead. After Monserez won a joust against Onabanjo, Onabanjo answered with a slide kill, and a Reinhardt block extended the lead to 7-4. Parsons hammered home a point to give the Supernovas an 8-5 advantage at the first media timeout. San Diego mounted a 4-1 run out of the timeout, including a Vicini block to tie it at 9-all. Cooper and Parsons responded with back-to-back kills. Onabanjo scored again from the slide, and Parsons rejected a Mojo attack for a 14-11 Omaha lead. Grote used the slide for a pair of kills, and terminations from Loberg and Lewis capped a 4-0 run to tie the set at 14. Lewis gave San Diego a 15-14 edge, but Londot tooled the block to even the score. Lewis answered with a tool off the Supernovas block to give the Mojo a 16-15 lead at the second media timeout. Parsons sided out on the next point before the teams exchanged errors. Tied at 17, Reinhardt converted off a good pass with a kill from the middle. Parsons found a seam for an ace, and Cooper terminated down the line to force a San Diego timeout at 20-17. Cooper and Londot extended the lead to five with consecutive kills to build a 22-17 Omaha advantage. Vicini squeezed a middle attack through the block to halt the momentum, and Lewis found the floor from the right side to force a Supernovas timeout at 22-19. Reinhardt put down an overdig on the next point, but a Londot error and a Lewis kill cut the lead to one, prompting another Supernovas timeout at 23-22. Cooper timed a tip perfectly to give Omaha set point at 24-22. Lewis ended a long rally with a kill but followed with a service error to give Omaha the 25-23 set win.

The Supernovas hit .357 as a team with two blocks and one ace. Cooper led the attack with six kills, while Reinhardt and Parsons added four each. San Diego responded with a .333 hitting percentage and two blocks, as Lewis posted eight kills on a .583 clip.

Set 2: Londot opened the scoring with a kill, but San Diego took a 2-1 lead after an Omaha service error and a Lewis block. Londot tied the set with another kill, but Vicini sparked a 4-0 run with a kill, a Lewis block and a Grote termination for a 6-2 advantage. Londot stopped the run, and Reinhardt delivered an ace to cut the deficit to two. A Parsons back-row attack sailed wide, and a Loberg kill pushed the lead to 9-5. Cooper sided out with a kill. The Mojo committed a four-hit violation, and Parsons added a block on a slide to bring Omaha within one. The Supernovas could not sustain the momentum, surrendering a 5-0 run fueled by two errors and three Mojo kills. Trailing 14-8, Omaha turned to the bench for Beason and Mosher. Beason immediately sparked the team with a kill and block on consecutive points. A Lewis hitting error set up another Beason kill. Parsons handled an out-of-system ball to trim the deficit to 14-13. San Diego answered with a block and kill to lead 16-13 at the second media timeout. Lewis extended the run with a kill but followed with a hitting error. Omaha capitalized on another San Diego error and a Parsons kill, but back-to-back Supernovas errors made it 19-15. Shannon Scully finished a running attack before the teams traded errors. Cooper found high hands for a kill and added a block on the next point. Leao dropped in an ace to cut the margin, but Grote halted the 3-0 run to make it 22-19. San Diego committed two errors to bring Omaha within one, but after a timeout, the Mojo earned set point on kills from Scully and Loberg. Onabanjo scored from the slide, but Loberg closed the set with a kill for a 25-22 win.

Omaha hit .082 with three blocks and two aces. Londot led with three kills, while Beason, Parsons and Cooper had two each. San Diego hit .120 with three blocks, as Loberg led with four kills.

Set 3: Cooper opened with a kill, and Loberg answered. Londot stuffed a Mojo attack and added a kill for a 3-1 lead. After a stretch of service and hitting errors, Onabanjo converted from the slide. Cooper followed an error with a kill on the next rally. Loberg sided out, but Cooper delivered again for an 8-6 lead at the media timeout. Out of the break, Londot found high hands and Reinhardt scored from the middle for a 10-6 advantage, forcing a San Diego timeout. Loberg sided out, and Vicini finished an overpass. A San Diego error made it 11-8, but a Vicini kill and Scully block cut the lead to one. Onabanjo scored again from the slide, but back-to-back Grote points tied it at 12. A service error and Onabanjo kill gave Omaha a 14-12 lead. Cooper traded kills with Monserez, and Londot added a back-row attack for a 16-14 edge. Cooper extended the lead with a high-line kill. After a net violation, Cooper struck down the line again, and Parsons found the back corner. A Mojo attack missed, and a Cooper ace forced a timeout at 21-15. Parsons capped the 5-0 run with a roll shot. A Cooper service error ended the streak, but a double contact and a Tabron kill trimmed it to 22-18. Londot answered with a sharp-angle kill, and Onabanjo set up set point. Vicini scored once more, but Parsons tooled the block for the 25-19 win.

Omaha hit .366 with one block and one ace. Cooper had six kills. San Diego hit .200 with two blocks, as Loberg and Vicini led with three kills each.

Set 4: After consecutive hitting errors, Reinhardt and Parsons recorded back-to-back kills for a 3-1 lead. Parsons added another point, and an Onabanjo middle kill made it 6-3. San Diego responded with a 5-0 run, fueled by three Loberg points and two Tabron kills, to take an 8-6 lead at the media timeout. Two more Omaha errors extended the run to 7-0 before Parsons ended the drought. Lewis and Loberg added kills to push the margin to five. Cooper scored, and Beason added a kill after a substitution. Tabron clipped the back line, and Lewis tooled the block for a 16-10 lead at the second media timeout. Beason added another back-row kill, but Grote sided out from the middle. After several errors by both teams, Brakocevic tooled the block to make it 19-13. Beason added two more kills, but a 4-1 run set up Lewis’ set-ending kill for a 25-18 win to force a fifth set.

Omaha hit .136. Beason led with four kills on five swings. San Diego hit .357, as Tabron recorded six kills on a .357 clip.

Set 5: Reinhardt opened with a block, but Loberg sided out. Tabron blocked Beason, and Vicini gave San Diego a 3-1 lead. TeBrake added a block, but Vicini answered again. Parsons tied it at 4-all with back-to-back kills. Grote and Beason traded points before Parsons gave Omaha a 6-5 lead. Loberg tied it again, and a TeBrake attack sailed long for an 8-7 San Diego lead at the media timeout. Onabanjo scored from the slide, but a Brakocevic kill and TeBrake error forced a Supernovas timeout at 10-8. Lewis delivered back-to-back blocks to extend the lead to 12-8. Loberg added a kill and a block to reach match point. Cooper tooled the block, and Beason scored twice to force a San Diego timeout. Reinhardt recorded another block out of the timeout, but Loberg ended the match with a kill for a 15-12 win.

Omaha hit .042 with four blocks. Parsons led with three kills on five swings. San Diego hit .200 with four blocks, as Loberg had four kills.

NBA Game Preview: Utah Jazz (18-39) vs. Houston Rockets (34-21)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Game Preview: Utah Jazz (18-39) vs. Houston Rockets (34-21)

The Utah Jazz (18-39) face the Houston Rockets (34-21) in an interconference matchup on Monday, February 23, 2026. The Jazz, struggling with a 2-3 record in their last five and dealing with key injuries, visit a Rockets team that’s 3-2 in its last five and boasts a strong home record. Houston enters as heavy favorites, leveraging its offensive efficiency (top-10 FG% at 47.2%) against Utah’s leaky defense (last in points allowed at 121.1 PPG). Despite Utah’s historical edge in the series, Houston’s current form and home advantage make this a lopsided affair on paper, though the Jazz’s recent ATS success (6-2 in last 8) could keep it competitive. Below is a detailed breakdown, including key factors and betting insights.

Venue Location

Toyota Center, Houston, Texas.

This 18,500-capacity arena, home to the Rockets since 2003, has been a solid venue for Houston (18-10 home record this season), though recent defensive lapses have allowed opponents to score 136+ in losses. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT, 8:30 p.m. CT).  

The game will be broadcast on Peacock and SCHN, with radio coverage on SiriusXM, KSL (Utah), and Sports Radio 790 (Houston).

Injury Report

Injuries heavily favor Houston, with Utah’s key players questionable or out, impacting their frontcourt and playmaking.

  • Utah Jazz:
    • GTD: Jusuf Nurkic (Nose).
    • GTD: Lauri Markkanen (Illness).
    • Out: Keyonte George (Rest).
    • Out: Georges Niang (Undisclosed).
    • Out For Season: Walker Kessler (Shoulder).
  • The absences remove rim protection and spacing, forcing reliance on John Collins and Collin Sexton.
  • Houston Rockets:
    • Out: Steven Adams (Ankle).
    • Out: Fred VanVleet (Knee).
  • VanVleet’s absence removes 15+ PPG and playmaking, but Amen Thompson and Tari Eason have filled in.

Key

Player Matchups

Utah’s injuries weaken their interior, creating mismatches for Houston’s athletic frontcourt.

  • Lauri Markkanen (UTA, if plays) vs. Jabari Smith Jr. (HOU): Markkanen (spacing forward) stretches the floor; Smith Jr. (efficient shooter) must contest, deciding rebounding edge.
  • Collin Sexton (UTA) vs. Amen Thompson (HOU): Sexton (scoring guard) pushes pace; Thompson (two-way threat) disrupts with defense.
  • John Collins (UTA) vs. Alperen Sengun (HOU): Collins (athletic big) vs. Sengun (playmaking center, 20 PPG); Sengun’s vision exploits Utah’s weak paint D.
  • Other Notes: Taylor Hendricks (UTA) adds defense vs. Houston’s wings; Dillon Brooks (HOU) locks up Utah’s perimeter without George.

Recent Team Forms

The Jazz are 2-3 in their last five, showing flashes but defensive collapses (allowing 135+ in losses). The Rockets are 3-2, with strong wins but recent close losses.

Here’s a summary of their last five games:

TeamDateOpponentResultKey Notes
UTAFeb 20, 2026@ Memphis GrizzliesL 114-123Defensive issues; Allowed 123 pts.
UTAFeb 12, 2026vs. Portland Trail BlazersL 119-135Blown out; Poor shooting.
UTAFeb 11, 2026vs. Sacramento KingsW 121-93Balanced attack; Held SAC to 93 pts.
UTAFeb 9, 2026@ Miami HeatW 115-111Clutch win; Efficient offense.
UTAFeb 7, 2026@ Orlando MagicL 117-120Close loss; Turnover issues.
HOUFeb 21, 2026@ New York KnicksL 106-108Close defeat; Late execution errors.
HOUFeb 19, 2026@ Charlotte HornetsW 105-101Durant 35 pts; Overcame deficit.
HOUFeb 11, 2026vs. LA ClippersL 102-105Late three-point play loss.
HOUFeb 7, 2026@ Oklahoma City ThunderW 112-106Road win; Balanced scoring.
HOUFeb 5, 2026vs. Charlotte HornetsL 99-109Shooting struggles; Allowed 109 pts.

Utah is 2-3 in last 5, averaging 117.2 PPG but allowing 121.8. Houston is 2-3, averaging 102.8 PPG in losses but 108.5 in wins.

Series History

The Jazz and Rockets have played 223 regular-season games, with Utah holding a 117-106 edge.

Utah is 11-9 in the last 20 meetings.

Recent: Jazz won 133-125 on Dec 1, 2025; Rockets won 129-101 on Nov 30, 2025; Rockets won 140-127 on Oct 8, 2025; Jazz won 143-105 on Apr 2, 2025; Rockets won 110-121 on Mar 27, 2025.

At Toyota Center, Rockets hold a 66-44 home edge.

In playoffs, Rockets 26-23 vs Jazz.

Average points: 105.8 for Rockets, 105.2 for Jazz in last 10.

Betting Trends

Rockets are 3-2 SU in last 5, 2-3 ATS.

  • Jazz are 2-3 SU in last 5, 6-2 ATS in last 8.
  • Under has hit in 6 of Jazz’s last 9 games, 57.9% of Jazz games (33/57).
  • Jazz 5-2 ATS in last 7 vs Houston, 4-14 SU in last 18 overall.
  • Rockets 1-4 ATS in last 5, 15-13 ATS at home, 16-14 ATS on road.
  • Over in 1 of Rockets’ last 5, 38.6% of Rockets games (22/57).

Game Odds

Utah Jazz                             225.5

Houston Rockets              – 14.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, February 22, 2026

NBA Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs (40-16) vs. Detroit Pistons (42-13)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Game Preview: San Antonio Spurs (40-16) vs. Detroit Pistons (42-13)

The San Antonio Spurs (40-16) visit the Detroit Pistons (42-13) in a marquee interconference matchup on Monday, February 23, 2026. The Spurs, second in the Western Conference and riding an eight-game winning streak, face the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons, who have won five straight. This clash features two of the NBA’s hottest teams, with Detroit’s balanced attack clashing against San Antonio’s elite defense and scoring led by Victor Wembanyama. Despite Detroit’s superior record and home advantage, the Spurs enter as slight underdogs in what could be a defensive battle, given both teams’ top-10 defensive ratings. Below is a detailed preview, including key factors and betting insights.

Venue Location

Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan.

This 20,491-capacity arena, home to the Pistons since 2017, is known for its passionate crowd and has been a fortress for Detroit (21-6 home record this season).

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT).

The game will air on Peacock, with radio coverage on SiriusXM, WWJ (Detroit), and WOAI (San Antonio).

Injury Report

Injuries could impact both teams, with San Antonio dealing with multiple absences in the frontcourt and backcourt, potentially weakening their depth. Detroit’s key suspension removes a defensive anchor.

  • San Antonio Spurs:
    • Out: David Jones Garcia (Ankle – Out for Season).
    • Out: Mason Plumlee (Reconditioning – Expected out until at least Feb 23).
    • GTD: Lindy Waters III (Knee).
  • The absences remove rebounding and perimeter depth, forcing reliance on Victor Wembanyama and young guards.
  • Detroit Pistons:
    • Out: Isaiah Stewart (Suspension – Out until at least Mar 3).
    • Out: Isaac Jones (Undisclosed).
  • Stewart’s suspension weakens Detroit’s interior defense, potentially exposing them to Wembanyama’s scoring.

Key

Player Matchups

This game features star-powered clashes, though injuries shift some dynamics.

  • Victor Wembanyama (SAS) vs. Jalen Duren (DET): Wembanyama (24.2 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 2.8 BPG) dominates with versatility; Duren (rebounding specialist) must anchor without Stewart, making this a key paint battle.
  • Cade Cunningham (DET) vs. Chris Paul (SAS): Cunningham (25.7 PPG, 9.7 APG) leads Detroit’s offense; Paul (veteran playmaker) disrupts with defense, potentially limiting Cunningham’s drives.
  • Devin Vassell (SAS) vs. Ausar Thompson (DET): Vassell (scoring wing) exploits mismatches; Thompson (defensive standout) could contain him, deciding perimeter efficiency.
  • Other Notes: Keldon Johnson (SAS) adds scoring vs. Detroit’s wings; Tobias Harris (DET) provides veteran presence inside without Stewart.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams are surging, with San Antonio on an eight-game win streak and Detroit winning five straight.

Here’s a summary of their last five games:

TeamDateOpponentResultKey Notes
SASFeb 21, 2026vs. Sacramento KingsW 139-122Wembanyama double-double; Eighth straight win.
SASFeb 19, 2026@ Utah JazzW (assumed from streak)Efficient offense; Defense limits opponents to 112 PPG in streak.
SASFeb 11, 2026vs. Phoenix SunsWBalanced scoring; 9-1 in last 10 overall.
SASFeb 7, 2026@ Dallas MavericksWStrong road win; 7-3 ATS in last 10.
SASFeb 4, 2026vs. Minnesota TimberwolvesWWon 5 of last 5 at home; Averaging 118.6 PPG.
DETFeb 21, 2026vs. Chicago BullsW 126-110Cunningham triple-double threat; Fifth straight win.
DETFeb 19, 2026vs. Toronto RaptorsW 110-101Solid defense; 8-2 in last 10.
DETFeb 11, 2026@ Washington WizardsWEfficient shooting; Min. replies 10+ in wins.
DETFeb 9, 2026vs. Brooklyn NetsWHome dominance; 21-6 at Little Caesars.
DETFeb 7, 2026@ Indiana PacersWWon 4 of last 5 on road; Averaging 117.6 PPG.

San Antonio is 9-1 in their last 10, averaging 118.6 PPG while allowing 112.0. Detroit is 8-2 in their last 10, with a league-best 109.3 PPG allowed.

Series History

The Spurs lead the all-time regular-season series 65-39 in 104 games.

San Antonio has won 14 of the last 20 meetings.

Recent: Spurs won 125-110 on Feb 21, 2025; Pistons won 96-84 on Jul 19, 2025 (summer league, but regular: Spurs 14-6 last 20).

In playoffs, Spurs 1-0 series wins (2005 Finals, 4-3). At Little Caesars Arena, Spurs hold a 5-3 edge. Average points: Spurs 110.5, Pistons 105.2 in last 10.

Betting Trends

  • Trends: San Antonio is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games and 7-3 ATS in last 10.

The total has gone OVER in 6 of San Antonio’s last 7 games.

Detroit is 29-23-1 ATS overall and 18-7 ATS at home.

Game Odds

San Antonio Spurs           227.5

Detroit Pistons                 – 1.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, February 22, 2026

NBA Game Preview: Sacramento Kings (12-46) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (21-34)

NBA Editor
-
0
NBA Game Preview: Sacramento Kings (12-46) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (21-34)

The Sacramento Kings (12-46) face the Memphis Grizzlies (21-34) in a Western Conference matchup on Monday, February 23, 2026. The Kings, mired in a 10-game losing streak and the league’s worst road record (3-26), visit a Grizzlies team that’s 3-7 in its last 10 but holds a solid home advantage (12-15 at FedExForum). Memphis enters as favorites, leveraging its slightly better form and Sacramento’s depleted roster, but the Kings’ desperation could make this a closer contest than expected. With both teams struggling defensively (Kings last in points allowed at 121.1 PPG; Grizzlies 20th at 116.8 PPG), expect a high-scoring affair despite injuries. Below is a comprehensive breakdown, including key factors and betting insights.

Venue Location

FedExForum, Memphis, Tennessee.

This 18,119-capacity arena, home to the Grizzlies since 2004, is known for its passionate “Grit and Grind” crowd and has been a tough spot for visitors, though Memphis’ 12-15 home record this season tempers the edge.

Tipoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET (5:00 p.m. PT, 7:00 p.m. CT).

The game will air on FDSSE (Memphis) and NBCSCA (Sacramento), with streaming available on NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Injuries heavily favor Memphis, with Sacramento missing multiple stars and dealing with a depleted frontcourt, severely impacting their rebounding and scoring.

  • Sacramento Kings:
    • Out: Dylan Cardwell (Ankle).
    • Out For Season: De’Andre Hunter (Eye Surgery).
    • Out For Season: Domantas Sabonis (Knee – Torn Meniscus).
    • Out For Season: Zach LaVine (Finger Surgery).
    • Questionable: Keegan Murray (Left Ankle Sprain).
  • Absences remove over 60 PPG combined, crippling Sacramento’s interior and perimeter game.
  • Memphis Grizzlies:
    • GTD: Cedric Coward (Knee).
    • GTD: Kyle Anderson (Knee).
    • Out: Brandon Clarke (Right Calf Strain).
    • Out: Ja Morant (Left Elbow UCL Sprain).
    • Out: Santi Aldama (Right Knee).
    • Out: Zach Edey (Ankle).
    • Out For Season: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (Finger).
    • Out: Scotty Pippen Jr. (Left Great Toe Surgery Recovery).
  • Morant’s absence removes 25+ PPG and playmaking, but Memphis’ depth (e.g., Ty Jerome) has stepped up.

Key

Player Matchups

Sacramento’s injuries shift the focus to secondary players, creating mismatches favoring Memphis’ remaining core.

  • De’Aaron Fox (SAC) vs. Ty Jerome (MEM): Fox (if available; 18 PPG in recent loss) brings speed; Jerome (28 PPG in recent win) must contain drives while providing offense without Morant.
  • Keegan Murray (SAC, if plays) vs. GG Jackson (MEM): Murray (15 PPG) stretches the floor; Jackson (20-28 PPG recently) exploits with scoring inside.
  • DeMar DeRozan (SAC) vs. Jaylen Wells (MEM): DeRozan (20 PPG in loss) mid-range game vs. Wells (25 PPG in win); Wells’ defense could limit DeRozan.
  • Other Notes: Olivier-Maxence Prosper (MEM, 23 PPG in win) adds energy vs. Kings’ thin frontcourt; Russell Westbrook (SAC) pushes pace but faces Memphis’ transition D.

Recent Team Forms

The Kings are 0-10 in their last 10, averaging 110.1 PPG while allowing 121.1. The Grizzlies are 3-7 in their last 10, scoring 115.5 PPG but struggling defensively.

Here’s a summary of their last five games:

TeamDateOpponentResultKey Notes
SACFeb 21, 2026@ San Antonio SpursL 122-139DeRozan 20 pts; 10th straight loss, allowed 139 pts.
SACFeb 19, 2026vs. Phoenix SunsL (assumed from skid)Continued woes; 4-6 ATS in last 10.
SACFeb 12, 2026@ Utah JazzL 119-135Defensive collapse; 0-10 SU skid.
SACFeb 11, 2026vs. Minnesota TimberwolvesLLow scoring; Allowed 133 pts.
SACFeb 6, 2026vs. Los Angeles ClippersLShooting struggles; 38.4% FG.
MEMFeb 21, 2026vs. Miami HeatL 120-136Jackson 28 pts; Defensive lapses, allowed 136 pts.
MEMFeb 20, 2026vs. Utah JazzW 123-114Prosper 23 pts, Jackson 20 pts; Rally in second half.
MEMFeb 11, 2026@ Phoenix SunsL 109-136Allowed 136 pts; 6-4 ATS last 10.
MEMFeb 10, 2026vs. San Antonio SpursW 136-108Gillespie 25 pts; Dominant win.
MEMFeb 4, 2026@ Sacramento KingsW 129-125Spencer 20 pts; Close road victory.

Sacramento is 0-10 in last 10, with poor defense (121.1 PPG allowed).

Memphis is 3-7, but 10-5 when scoring 115+ PPG.

Series History

The Kings and Grizzlies have played 112 regular-season games, with Sacramento holding a 59-53 edge.

landofbasketball.com +2

Sacramento is 8-12 in the last 20 meetings.

Recent: Grizzlies won the last three (129-125 on Feb 4, 2026; 115-107 on Nov 30, 2025; earlier wins). At FedExForum, Memphis holds a 35-21 home edge all-time vs. Kings.

Average points: 106.3 for Grizzlies, 102.0 for Kings in last 20.

Betting Trends

  • Trends: Sacramento is 5-11 ATS in last 16, 0-10 SU in last 10, 2-6 ATS vs. Memphis in last 8.

Memphis is 4-1 ATS in last 5, 6-4 ATS in last 10, 5-10 ATS on Monday.

The over has hit in 3 of Grizzlies’ last 5, 46.6% of Kings’ games (27/58).

Grizzlies 10-5 ATS when scoring 115+; Kings 21-35-2 ATS overall.

foxsports.com +1

Suggested Wagering Model

Game Odds

Sacramento Kings            232.5

Memphis Grizzlies          – 4.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, February 22, 2026

1...490491492...4,372Page 491 of 4,372

Contact us: info@sportsgamingjournal.com

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

FOLLOW US

TODAY"S TOP CATEGORIES

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