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NHL Game Preview: Los Angeles Kings (23-17-13) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (33-15-6)

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The Los Angeles Kings (23-17-13) face a tough road test against the Carolina Hurricanes (33-15-6) in an interconference matchup. The Kings enter on a three-game win streak but have struggled away from home, while the Hurricanes boast one of the league’s top defenses and aim to extend their seven-game point streak. This contest could hinge on special teams and goaltending, with Carolina’s Frederik Andersen likely starting after a strong January. Broadcast on ESPN+, FDSSO, and FDSNW.

Venue Location

Lenovo Center
Raleigh, NC

Puck drop is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET

Recent Team Forms

Both teams played on January 31, with mixed results. Carolina’s point streak stands at seven, but they’ve shown vulnerability in close games.

Los Angeles Kings (5-3-2 in last 10 games, on 3-game win streak):
The Kings average 3.1 goals per game (GPG) in their last 10, allowing 3.0 GPG (positive margin of +0.1). They’ve shot 10.2% with solid penalty killing. Recent results:

Jan 31: W 3-2 OT @ PHI (1 G, strong PK)

Jan 29: L 1-4 @ BUF (0 G, poor offense)

Jan 27: W 3-1 @ DET

Jan 25: PPD @ CBJ

Jan 23: W 5-4 @ STL
Overall, L.A. ranks 18th in GPG (3.0) and 20th in goals against per game (GA/G, 3.1), with a power play at 19.2% (22nd).

Carolina Hurricanes (7-1-2 in last 10 games, on 1-game win streak):
The Hurricanes average 3.7 GPG in their last 10, allowing 2.9 GPG (positive margin of +0.8). They’ve shot 11.5% with elite shot suppression. Recent results:

Jan 31: L 3-4 OT @ WSH (3 G, PK issues)

Jan 29: W 5-4 vs UTA

Jan 24: W 4-1 @ OTT

Jan 22: L 3-4 SO vs CHI

Jan 19: W 5-3 vs DAL
Overall, Carolina ranks 4th in GPG (3.41) and 9th in GA/G (2.87), with a power play at 21.6% (13th) and penalty kill at 81.2% (10th).

Injury Report

Los Angeles Kings:

Alex Turcotte (C): Out – Upper Body (IR)

Carolina Hurricanes:

Eric Robinson (LW): Out – Upper Body (extended period)

Pyotr Kochetkov (G): Out For Season – Lower Body/Hip Surgery

Charles-Alexis Legault (D): Out – Hand (IR)

Key

Player Matchups

With injuries impacting depth, focus shifts to top lines and special teams. Carolina’s shot volume (31.9 shots per game, 9th) could overwhelm L.A.’s goaltending.

Sebastian Aho (CAR) vs. Anze Kopitar (LAK): Aho (0.95 PPG, strong two-way) drives Carolina’s offense; Kopitar (veteran center, faceoff specialist) must neutralize him in the dot (55% faceoff win rate).

Andrei Svechnikov (CAR) vs. Quinton Byfield (LAK): Svechnikov (power forward, 0.82 PPG) thrives on physicality; Byfield (emerging scorer, recent OT winner) needs to match his speed.

Frederik Andersen (CAR) vs. David Rittich (LAK): Andersen (2.61 GAA, .912 SV%) anchors Carolina; Rittich (backup role) may start if Kuemper rests, facing Carolina’s high shots.

Brent Burns (CAR) vs. Adrian Kempe (LAK): Burns (blue-line offense, 0.68 PPG) quarterbacks the PP; Kempe (speedy winger) must exploit transitions.

Carolina’s bench depth gives them an advantage over L.A.’s road-weary rotation.

Series History

The Hurricanes hold a 41-38-11 all-time edge over the Kings (including Hartford Whalers era). In recent matchups, Carolina averages 3.8 GPG while L.A. scores 3.2 GPG. Recent games:

Oct 14, 2025: Hurricanes 4-3 OT Kings (CAR won at LA)

Mar 25, 2025: Kings 3-2 Hurricanes (LAK won at CAR)

Jan 15, 2024: Hurricanes 5-2 Kings (CAR won at home)

Oct 14, 2023: Hurricanes 6-3 Kings (CAR won at LA)

Mar 4, 2023: Kings 4-3 Hurricanes (LAK won OT at home)
Carolina has won 3 of the last 5.

Betting Trends

Carolina is 29-24 ATS this season (19-10 ATS at home), while L.A. is 24-29 ATS (10-17 ATS on road). The Hurricanes’ games hit the over 45.3% of the time (24/53), and combined, these teams average 6.4 GPG (exceeding the total by 0.9). However, with injuries, recent unders trend—Kings 6-4 O/U last 10; Hurricanes 5-5 O/U last 10. Carolina is 7-3 ATS in last 10; L.A. is 5-5 ATS in last 10. The Hurricanes are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Pacific teams.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Kings            5.5

Carolina Hurricanes        – 192

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, January 31, 2026

NHL Morning Skate – February 1, 2026

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NHL Morning Skate – Feb. 1, 2026

* Approximately 63,000 fans are expected at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa for the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series, a clash between the NHL’s two hottest teams since Jan. 1 – Tampa Bay (.855) and Boston (.821) have the League’s top two points percentages in that span – with the puck-drop temperature expected to be cooler than originally anticipated (45°F/7°C).

* The last day of January was eventful: a new mark was set for most goals in a calendar month by defensemen, Nathan MacKinnon emerged as the first 40-goal scorer of the season and Erik Karlsson became the second Swedish blueliner in League history to record 700 career assists.

* Only 37 NHL games remain before players head to Milan, including two of three today as part of an ESPN doubleheader – as the Golden Knights and Ducks follow the outdoor game in Tampa.


HOTTEST TEAMS IN 2026 SET FOR COOLER-THAN-EXPECTED OUTDOOR GAME IN TAMPA

Lined up as first-round playoff opponents based on the standings entering Sunday before the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium SeriesNikita Kucherov and the Lightning (34-14-4, 72 points) will clash with David Pastrnak and the Bruins (32-20-3, 67 points) for the 45th outdoor game in League history and first hosted by Tampa Bay (6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, SN, TVAS;  NHL in ASL on ESPN+, Sportsnet+).

* Kucherov (27-55—82; 3rd) and Pastrnak (22-47—69; 6th) both rank among the top 10 in NHL scoring this season, while their clubs both rank among the top 10 in the overall NHL standings ahead of their clash outdoors today (TBL: 4th; BOS: 10th).

* Kucherov leads all players in scoring since the calendar flipped to Jan. 1 (9-22—31 in 13 GP), including 1-1—2 in his last outing when he overtook Vincent Lecavalier for second place on the all-time franchise goals list. Despite having the best record in the NHL in January (.855 P%), Tampa Bay maintains only a two-point advantage atop the Atlantic Division as five of the top 10 teams since the calendar turned to 2026 are from that cohort.

* Pastrnak ranked second in assists and points (tied) in January (5-20—25 in 14 GP) – behind only Kucherov in each category – and recently became the third Czech player in League history with 900 points (and sixth from any country to accumulate as many with the Bruins). Boston has a 12-2-2 record since Dec. 29, rebounding from a six-game winless stretch before that to maintain a playoff position for 19 straight days (since Jan. 13).

* More information is available in the #NHLStats Pack and Feb. 1 edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates.

STRUCTURED FOR SUCCESS AT SECOND OUTDOOR GAME IN FLORIDA

Sunday will mark the second NHL outdoor game contested in the state of Florida in under a month, after the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic at loanDepot park in Miami on Jan. 2. In Miami, the League was able to utilize the stadium’s retractable roof to control the climate during the rink build process prior to opening it up at game time. At Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, the NHL built a regulation-size rink inside a steel-framed, air-conditioned structure to protect it from the elements.
 

* Spanning 34 feet high, 125 feet wide and 240 feet long, the state-of-the-art tent structure – developed by Texas-based GNB Global – will be dismantled before the teams face off outdoors and should be completed at approximately 10 a.m. ET on game day. The entire, unique process of putting on an outdoor game in Tampa is available in the multi-episode docuseries “Road to the NHL Stadium Series presented by Fastenal” on the NHL’s YouTube channel.


* The temperature at puck drop is projected to be in the low 40s on Sunday evening – which would be colder than the last outdoor game hosted in Boston (51°F at 2023 WC). Click here to see the temperature for every outdoor game in League history.

* The teams took turns practicing on the ice at Raymond James Stadium on Saturday under the temperature-controlled structure with the home team receiving some welcome news, as NHL.com reports that captain Victor Hedman is expected to return for the first time since Dec. 9.

#NHLSTATS MEMOS TO MILAN: STADIUM SERIES STACKED WITH OLYMPIC TALENT

A total of 17 players on rosters for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 are in Tampa for the outdoor game – Tampa Bay tops all clubs with 10 (plus head coach Jon Cooper, Team Canada), while Boston has seven. Both teams are also managed by GMs who helped construct the Team Canada roster – Tampa Bay’s Julien BriseBois and Boston’s Don Sweeney are assistant general managers.

* Team USA will be represented at all three positions at Stadium Series: goaltender Jeremy Swayman will tend the Bruins’ net while defenseman Charlie McAvoy battles with Lightning forward Jake Guentzel. Swayman will be the third Bruins goaltender to head to the Olympic Winter Games, while McAvoy will be the first Bruins defenseman to skate for Team USA. Guentzel (24) is one of seven players on Team USA with 20-plus goals this season – second to only Team Canada (10).

* Three Team Canada players will be at Raymond James Stadium, forwards Anthony CirelliBrandon Hagel and Brayden Point (injured) ahead of their opener in Milan against Team Czechia and Bruins teammates David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha (injured). Team Canada has had three NHL teammates many times, including one other Lightning trio.


* Team Sweden has two players on each roster: Elias Lindholm (injured) and Hampus Lindholm of the Bruins, as well as Lightning teammates Pontus Holmberg and Victor Hedman. The Lindholm duo and Hedman are three of 11 top-10 NHL Draft picks on the country’s roster – the most of any nation competing in Milan (USA: 10; CAN: 9).

* Bruins head coach Marco Sturm will become the first individual to appear in an outdoor NHL game both as a player and a head coach. He scored the overtime winner for the Bruins in the 2010 Winter Classic at Fenway Park, the fourth outdoor game in League history (and first for Boston). He also has Olympic ties, representing Team Germany as a teenager the first time NHL players competed in 1998 – the youngest to represent that country at Olympic Winter Games with NHL participation.

AROUND THE RINKS ON A BUSY 14-GAME SATURDAY

The latest edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates covered all the major stats and storylines from the last day of January, including an all-time NHL mark by defensemen, the League’s first 40-goal scorer of the season and milestones among many others.


* Quinn Hughes (1-1—2) and Brock Faber (1-1—2) both posted multi-point outings, with the former setting the franchise record for longest point streak by a defenseman (8 GP), as the Wild (32-14-10, 74 points) defeated the Oilers (28-20-8, 64 points) to maintain second place in the Central Division. Hughes, who also tied for the second-longest streak in Wild history overall, was one of 14 blueliners to find the back of the net Saturday, helping to set an NHL mark for a calendar month.

Nathan MacKinnon (2-1—3) became the NHL’s first 40-goal scorer this season and will be the League’s fifth player with as many goals entering an Olympic break, joining Sidney Crosby (42 in 2010), Alex Ovechkin (42 in 2010 & 40 in 2014), Teemu Selanne (41 in 1998) and Jaromir Jagr (40 in 2006).


Roman Josi (1-1—2) scored a highlight-reel tally with 1:14 remaining in regulation to lift the Predators to victory and reach the 200-goal milestone. Josi became the 24th defenseman in NHL history to reach the mark and just the fifth blueliner born outside of North America on that list, following Nicklas Lidstrom (264), Sergei Gonchar (220), Zdeno Chara (209) and Erik Karlsson (204).

* Karlsson (0-1—1) factored on one of six Pittsburgh goals to reach the 700-assist milestone as the Penguins extended their win streak to six games and improved their point percentage since the holiday break to .824 – the second best among all teams behind only the Lightning (.906). Karlsson, who will represent Sweden at the upcoming Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, became the second Swedish defenseman in NHL history to hit 700 assists, joining Lidstrom (878).

* After the Hurricanes took a 3-0 lead, Jakob Chychrun (1-1—2) scored to pull the Capitals even and set the stage for Justin Sourdif’s overtime winner as Washington earned the NHL’s seventh three-goal comeback win since Jan. 1. Only five other months in NHL history have featured as many: November 1987 (9), March 2024 (8), December 2018 (8), December 2014 (8) and December 1985 (7).

Cole Caufield (2-0—2) scored the tying and go-ahead goals to help Montreal (31-17-7, 69 points) earn their eighth third-period comeback win of the season – tied with Vegas for the most – and overtake Buffalo (31-18-5, 67 points) for third in the Atlantic Division. Caufield finished January with a League-high 13 goals, which is the most in a calendar month by a Canadiens player since Guy Lafleur (13 in Jan. 1979).

* Zach Werenski (19-41—60 in 50 GP) assisted on Columbus’ game-winning goal for his 60th point of the season and became the fifth active defenseman to reach the mark in 50 or fewer games, joining Cale Makar (46 GP in 2023-24), Karlsson(46 GP in 2022-23), Hughes(48 GP in 2024-25 & 49 GP in 2023-24) and John Carlson (49 GP in 2019-20). Werenski also tied Artemi Panarin (50 GP in 2018-19) as the fastest Blue Jackets player to reach 60 points in a single season.
 

* ICYMI: Adam Fox was highlighted for the difference he is making in the community ahead of the Rangers’ taking center stage on ABC. Fox raises money for ALS research and creating memories for families affected. The Rangers defenseman invites them to games and meets with them after. This season, Fox announced that he will donate $1,023 for every goal and $523 for every assist to ALS research.

QUICK CLICKS

Andrei Vasilevskiy hopes to ‘spark a few dreams’ with Lightning at Stadium Series

*Ryan McDonagh aims to keep perfect outdoor mark for Lightning in Stadium Series

Sidney Crosby gets emotional as Penguins honor 2016 Stanley Cup champions

Tanner Jeannot ‘all business’ facing Lightning at Stadium Series with Bruins

Charlie McAvoy eager to soak in ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ Opening Ceremony at Olympics

NHL, Swiss watchmaker NORQAIN unveil limited-edition timepiece

Boxing Match Preview: Jose Valenzuela (14-3-0, 9 KOs) vs. Diego Torres (22-1-0, 19 KOs)

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The Jose Valenzuela vs. Diego Torres bout headlines Zuffa Boxing 2 as a 10-round catchweight fight at 140 pounds (super lightweight/junior welterweight range), featuring two high-power Mexican fighters with contrasting recent trajectories. Valenzuela, the former WBA super lightweight champion, seeks redemption after a 2025 title loss and aims to reclaim contender status, while Torres, a knockout specialist with a near-perfect record, looks to build on his regional dominance and make a statement against a former titleholder. This matchup promises fireworks given both fighters’ aggressive styles and high KO percentages, with potential for a stoppage in a high-stakes co-main or featured bout on the card.

Venue Location

The fight will be held at the Meta Apex (UFC Apex) in Enterprise, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. This intimate 2,500-capacity venue, known for hosting UFC Fight Night events, provides a controlled, high-production environment with close-up action and excellent broadcast quality for Zuffa Boxing’s second card.

Ringwalks are scheduled for 6:00 PM ET (3:00 PM PT / 12:00 AM GMT on February 2). Ring walks for Valenzuela vs. Torres are expected as the main event around 9:00-10:00 PM ET (6:00-7:00 PM PT / 3:00-4:00 AM GMT on February 2), broadcast live on Paramount+ in the US and available internationally via streaming platforms.

Injury Report

No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into the bout. Both completed full training camps without disruptions. Valenzuela has been active and healthy despite his 2025 title loss, while Torres’ recent activity in Mexico shows no setbacks.

Jose Valenzuela:

No reported issues; fully cleared after his March 2025 title defense loss.

Diego Torres:

No injuries noted; durable with no recent concerns.

Fighter Matchups

This catchweight bout pits Valenzuela’s technical boxing and counterpunching against Torres’ raw power and aggressive pressure.

Jose Valenzuela (age 26, 5’9″, orthodox): A skilled boxer-puncher with sharp counters, good footwork, and solid defense. His 64% KO rate comes from precision and accumulation, excelling in mid-range exchanges. Weaknesses include vulnerability to heavy hitters if backed up, as seen in his 2025 loss to Gary Antuanne Russell.

Diego Torres (age 28, 5’10”, orthodox): A compact knockout artist with devastating power (86% KO rate in wins), Torres relies on forward pressure, hooks, and body work to overwhelm opponents. His style suits come-forward brawls, but he can be outboxed by quicker, more technical fighters.

Key Stylistic Clash: Valenzuela’s movement and counters vs. Torres’ relentless pressure and power. Valenzuela must use his jab and angles to avoid being smothered; Torres needs to close distance for inside fighting and body shots.

Strengths/Weaknesses: Valenzuela’s experience against top competition (former WBA champ) gives him an edge in skill; Torres’ power and four-fight win streak offer upset potential if he lands early.

X-Factor: Torres’ knockout streak—if he connects cleanly, it could end quickly; Valenzuela’s chin and boxing IQ could force a decision.

Recent Form

Valenzuela has faced setbacks in title fights, while Torres has dominated regionally.

Jose Valenzuela (Last 5: L-W-L-W-W):

March 1, 2025: UD 12 loss vs. Gary Antuanne Russell (lost WBA title).

Prior: Split decision win over Isaac Cruz (won title), followed by mixed results.

Form Notes: 2-3 in last 5, but competitive against elite; high volume and skill remain.

Diego Torres (Last 5: W-W-W-W-L):

Recent: Four straight wins post-2023 loss to Raymond Muratalla (8th-round stoppage).

Form Notes: Dominant regionally with high KO rate; strong rebound form.

FighterLast 5 RecordKO % (Career)Avg. Rounds Last 5Key Stat
Jose ValenzuelaL-W-L-W-W64%9-10Former WBA champ
Diego TorresW-W-W-W-L86%7-9Knockout specialist

Fight History

This is the first meeting between Valenzuela and Torres, with no prior head-to-head or shared opponents. Valenzuela’s world-level path meets Torres’ regional dominance in a fresh matchup at a catchweight.

FIGHT ODDS

Jose Valenzuela                – 225

Diego Torres                       + 150

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025

Boxing Match Preview: Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-3-0, 21 KOs) vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk (21-2-0, 17 KOs)

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Oleksandr Gvozdyk (21-2-0, 17 KOs), the former WBC light heavyweight champion and 2012 Olympic bronze medalist from Ukraine, faces Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic (29-3-0, 21 KOs), the Bosnian-American contender and former title challenger, in a 12-round light heavyweight bout. This co-feature on Zuffa Boxing 2 serves as a pivotal step for both fighters: Gvozdyk, returning from a long layoff and comeback trail, seeks to reclaim elite status after his 2019 stoppage loss to Artur Beterbiev, while Kalajdzic aims to bounce back from a 2024 unanimous decision defeat to David Morrell Jr. and prove his worth against a former world champion. Expect a tactical, high-level light heavyweight clash where Gvozdyk’s sharp southpaw jab and timing meet Kalajdzic’s aggressive pressure and power in a fight that could produce a late stoppage or competitive decision.

Venue Location

The fight will be held at the Meta Apex (UFC Apex) in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. This intimate 2,500-capacity venue, primarily known for UFC events, provides a controlled, high-production setting for Zuffa Boxing’s second card, with excellent broadcast quality and close-up action.

Ring walks are scheduled for 6:00 PM ET (3:00 PM PT / 12:00 AM GMT on February 2). Ring walks for Gvozdyk vs. Kalajdzic are expected around 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT / 3:00 AM GMT on February 2), broadcast live on Paramount+ in the US and available internationally via streaming platforms.

Injury Report

No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into the bout. Both completed full training camps without disruptions. Gvozdyk has been positioned carefully since his comeback from retirement and prior inactivity, while Kalajdzic’s 2024 loss to Morrell was non-injury related, and he enters cleared and focused.

Oleksandr Gvozdyk:

No reported issues; fully healthy and sharp in camp.

Radivoje Kalajdzic:

No injuries noted; durable throughout his career.

Fighter Matchups

This light heavyweight bout contrasts Gvozdyk’s technical southpaw mastery with Kalajdzic’s aggressive orthodox pressure.

Oleksandr Gvozdyk (age 38-39, 6’3″, 78″ reach, southpaw): A disciplined boxer-puncher with excellent jab, timing, and ring generalship. His 81% KO rate reflects power and accuracy, excelling in controlling space and countering. Weaknesses include age-related decline in speed and potential vulnerability to sustained pressure after long layoffs.

Radivoje Kalajdzic (age 34-35, 6’3″, 78″ reach, orthodox): A powerful pressure fighter with heavy hands (72% KO rate) and forward aggression. He breaks opponents down with volume and body work. Weaknesses include struggles against elite speed and distance control, as seen in losses to Morrell and Beterbiev.

Key Stylistic Clash: Gvozdyk’s southpaw jab and counters vs. Kalajdzic’s orthodox pressure. Gvozdyk must maintain range and avoid being backed up; Kalajdzic needs to close distance and force exchanges.

Strengths/Weaknesses: Gvozdyk’s technique and experience favor him in a tactical fight; Kalajdzic’s power and aggression offer upset potential if he lands early.

X-Factor: Gvozdyk’s age and layoff—rust could hinder him against Kalajdzic’s pace, but if sharp, his jab dominates.

Recent Form

Gvozdyk has been selective since his comeback, while Kalajdzic has faced top competition with mixed results.

Oleksandr Gvozdyk (Last 5: W-W-W-W-L prior to layoff):

Recent: Strong comeback wins in 2025, including decisions and stoppages.

Form Notes: Durable and technical; high win rate post-retirement, with 81% KO rate overall.

Radivoje Kalajdzic (Last 5: L-W-W-W-W):

August 3, 2024: UD 12 loss vs. David Morrell Jr. (WBA title fight).

Prior: Wins over solid opposition.

Form Notes: 1 loss in recent years; powerful but vulnerable to skilled boxers.

FighterLast 5 RecordKO % (Career)Avg. Rounds Last 5Key Stat
Oleksandr GvozdykW-W-W-W-L81%9-10Former WBC champ
Radivoje KalajdzicL-W-W-W-W72%10Aggressive contender

Fight History

This is the first meeting between Gvozdyk and Kalajdzic, with no prior head-to-head or shared opponents. Gvozdyk’s championship path meets Kalajdzic’s contender journey in a fresh light heavyweight matchup.

FIGHT ODDS

Radivoje Kalajdzic           + 160

Oleksandr Gvozdyk         – 195

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025

Boxing Match Preview: Serhii Bohachuk (26-3-0, 24 KOs) vs. Radzhab Butaev (16-1-0, 12 KOs)

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Serhii “El Flaco” Bohachuk (26-3-0, 24 KOs), the Ukrainian knockout artist and former WBC interim super welterweight champion, clashes with Radzhab “No Mercy” Butaev (16-1-0, 12 KOs), the Russian former WBA welterweight titleholder, in a 10-round non-title middleweight contest. This matchup serves as the co-main event on Zuffa Boxing 2, headlined by Oleksandr Gvozdyk vs. Radivoje Kalajdzic. Bohachuk, riding a mix of highs and lows from 2025, seeks to rebound and position himself for another title run, while Butaev ends a nearly four-year layoff with a step up in weight and aims to reassert his elite status. Expect a power-punching battle where Bohachuk’s volume and finishing instinct test Butaev’s durability and ring IQ, potentially leading to a mid-round stoppage if Bohachuk lands clean or a gritty decision if Butaev weathers the storm in this intriguing comeback fight.

Venue Location

The fight will be held at the Meta Apex (UFC Apex) in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. This 2,500-capacity facility, primarily known for UFC events, offers an intimate, state-of-the-art setting for Zuffa Boxing’s second promotional card, with modern amenities and a focus on high-production broadcasts.

Ring walks are scheduled for 5:00 PM local time (PST) / 8:00 PM ET / 1:00 AM GMT (February 2). Ring walks for Bohachuk vs. Butaev are expected around 7:00 PM PST / 10:00 PM ET / 3:00 AM GMT (February 2), broadcast live on Paramount+ in the US and available internationally via streaming platforms.

Injury Report

No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into the bout. Both completed full training camps without disruptions. Bohachuk has emphasized his conditioning after a busy but inconsistent 2025, while Butaev’s long layoff was due to inactivity rather than health issues, and he enters cleared and motivated.

Fighter Matchups

This middleweight non-title fight contrasts Bohachuk’s aggressive knockout style with Butaev’s technical boxing and counterpunching.

Serhii Bohachuk (age 30, 6’0″, 72.8″ reach, orthodox): A volume puncher with elite power (92% KO rate), Bohachuk excels in mid-range exchanges, using his jab to set up heavy hooks and body shots. His relentless pressure breaks opponents down, but he can be vulnerable to precise counters if overextended.

Radzhab Butaev (age 32, 5’10”, 72″ reach, orthodox): A tactical fighter with strong fundamentals and durability, Butaev relies on footwork, jabs, and counters to outpoint aggressive foes. His 75% KO rate (in wins) shows finishing ability, but his layoff raises questions about ring rust and adapting to middleweight.

Key Stylistic Clash: Bohachuk’s forward pressure and power vs. Butaev’s distance control and counters. Bohachuk must close the gap without eating shots; Butaev needs to frustrate and capitalize on openings.

Strengths/Weaknesses: Bohachuk’s activity and KO threat give him an edge in firepower; Butaev’s experience (former WBA champ) and chin offer rebound potential if he shakes off rust.

X-Factor: Butaev’s layoff (nearly 4 years)—rust could hinder him against Bohachuk’s pace, but if sharp, his technique shines.

Recent Form

Bohachuk has mixed results with power wins and tough losses, while Butaev returns after a long absence.

Serhii Bohachuk (Last 5: W-L-W-L-W):

May 17, 2025: UD 10 win vs. Mykal Fox.

September 13, 2025: UD 10 loss vs. Brandon Adams (rematch setback).

December 21, 2024: UD 6 win vs. Ishmael Davis.

August 10, 2024: MD 12 loss vs. Vergil Ortiz Jr.

March 30, 2024: UD 12 win vs. Brian Mendoza.

Form Notes: Active with 3 wins in last 5, but 2 losses to top contenders; high volume and power persist.

Radzhab Butaev (Last 5: L-W-UD-W-TKO):

April 16, 2022: SD 12 loss vs. Eimantas Stanionis (last fight, long layoff).

October 30, 2021: TKO 9 win vs. Jamal James.

November 30, 2019: UD 12 loss vs. Alexander Besputin (disputed).

May 3, 2019: UD 6 win vs. Silverio Ortiz.

March 8, 2019: TKO 3 win vs. Lanardo Tyner.

Form Notes: Inactive since 2022; 3 wins in last 5 with 2 stoppages, but losses to elite boxers.

FighterLast 5 RecordKO % (Career)Avg. Rounds Last 5Key Stat
Serhii BohachukW-L-W-L-W92%10High-volume KO artist
Radzhab ButaevL-W-UD-W-TKO75%8.4Technical veteran

Fight History

This is the first meeting between Bohachuk and Butaev, with no prior head-to-head encounters or shared opponents. Bohachuk’s aggressive path meets Butaev’s technical journey in a fresh matchup designed to test both post-setbacks.

FIGHT ODDS

Serhii Bohachuk               – 200

Radzhab Butaev               + 170

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025

Philadelphia Sixers Paul George suspended 25 games

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NEW YORK – Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been suspended without pay for 25 games for violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program, it was announced today by the NBA.

George’s suspension will begin with tonight’s game between the 76ers and New Orleans Pelicans at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

NHL Game Preview: Seattle Kraken (25-19-9) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (25-14-14)

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The Seattle Kraken (25-19-9) travel to face the Vegas Golden Knights (25-14-14) in a Pacific Division rivalry matchup. The Kraken, sitting third in the Pacific, have won three straight but remain inconsistent on the road. The Golden Knights, first in the Pacific despite a recent three-game losing streak, boast a strong home record (12-7-7) and elite special teams. This is their second meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Seattle winning 2-1 in OT on Oct. 11. Vegas looks to rebound at home, while Seattle aims to extend its streak against a depleted Knights lineup.

Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Paradise (Las Vegas), Nevada

Puck drop is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. PT)

espn.com +2

TV/Streaming: ESPN+, Utah 16 (for Utah? Wait, no—likely SN, MSGSN, FDSNSO; confirm local)

Recent Team Forms

Kraken (5-3-2 in last 10): Seattle averages 3.4 goals scored and 2.7 allowed. They’ve won three in a row, including 5-2 over Toronto (Jan. 29), 5-1 over Washington (Jan. 27), and 4-2 over New Jersey (Jan. 25). Earlier losses like 4-2 to Anaheim (Jan. 23) show road issues

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs TORW 5-2
Jan 27vs WSHW 5-1
Jan 25vs NJDW 4-2
Jan 23vs ANAL 2-4
Jan 21@ NYIW 4-1

Golden Knights (5-3-2 in last 10): Vegas averages 3.9 goals scored and 3.0 allowed. They’ve lost three straight, including 5-4 to Dallas (Jan. 29), 3-2 OT to Montreal (Jan. 27), and 7-1 to Ottawa (Jan. 25). Wins like 4-2 over St. Louis (Jan. 10) show potential, but injuries hurt

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs DALL 4-5
Jan 27vs MTLL 2-3 (OT)
Jan 25@ OTTL 1-7
Jan 23@ TORW 6-3
Jan 22vs PITL 2-6

Injury Report

Kraken:

Berkly Catton (C, upper body): Day-to-day, exited Jan. 29 game

Ben Meyers (C, lower body/undisclosed): IR, out until at least Feb. 4

Max McCormick (LW, hip): Out for season post-surgery

Matt Murray (G, lower body): IR, out until at least Feb. 25

Golden Knights:

Colton Sissons (RW/C, upper body): Out until post-Olympics (Feb. 25)

William Karlsson (C, lower body): IR, out until Feb. 25

Brandon Saad (LW, undisclosed): IR, out until Feb. 25

Brett Howden (C, lower body): IR, out until Feb. 25

Carter Hart (G, lower body): Out until Feb. 25

Key Player Matchups

Seattle’s speed vs. Vegas’ physicality, with goaltending crucial.

Jared McCann (Kraken LW) vs. Mark Stone (Knights RW): McCann tops Seattle with 22 goals and 45 points, hot with multi-point games; Stone (20G, 52P) must shut him down

Matty Beniers (Kraken C) vs. Jack Eichel (Knights C): Beniers (15G, 40P) centers Seattle’s top line; Eichel (19G, 61P) brings playmaking

Jordan Eberle (Kraken RW) vs. Mitch Marner (Knights RW): Eberle (recent GWG); Marner (13G, 54P) exploits transitions

Goaltending Duel: Joey Daccord (Kraken) vs. Adin Hill (Knights): Daccord (recent 27 saves); Hill vs. Seattle’s shot volume

Projected Lineups

Kraken: Schwartz-Beniers-Eberle; McCann-Stephenson-Tolvanen; Kartye-Wright-Winterton; Melanson etc. Defense: Dunn-Oleksiak; Evans-Larsson. Goalie: Daccord

Golden Knights: Dorofeyev-Eichel-Marner; Hertl-Karlsson (if avail)-Stone; Saad etc. Defense: Theodore-McNabb. Goalie: Hill

Series History

Vegas dominates with a 12-4 record all-time against Seattle (including 7-1-2 at home). Seattle won the latest 2-1 OT on Oct. 11, but Vegas has won 5 of the last 7 overall. At T-Mobile Arena, Knights are 5-3 vs. Kraken.

Betting Trends

Over/Under: Over has hit in 6 of Vegas’ last 10; Under in 5 of Seattle’s last 8 road games. Golden Knights 3-2 in last 5; Kraken 3-2 ATS in last 5. Vegas 5-2 ATS at home; Seattle 8-3 as road underdogs +201 or greater. Golden Knights 3-0 vs. Central opponents recently

Game Odds

Seattle Kraken                                  6.5

Vegas Golden Knights                    – 205

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026

NHL Game Preview: Minnesota Wild (31-14-10) vs. Edmonton Oilers (28-19-8)

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The Minnesota Wild (31-14-10) face the Edmonton Oilers (28-19-8) in a Western Conference showdown. The Wild, second in the Central Division, have been strong defensively but inconsistent lately, while the Oilers, first in the Pacific, ride a three-game win streak fueled by elite offense. This is their third meeting of the 2025-26 season, with each team winning once: Wild 5-2 on Dec. 20 and Oilers 4-2 on Dec. 2. Expect high-scoring action given recent trends, but Edmonton’s home edge could decide it.

Venue: Rogers Place, Edmonton, Alberta

Puck drop is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET (8:00 p.m. MT)

TV/Streaming: ESPN+, Sportsnet, FDSNWI

Recent Team Forms

Wild (5-3-2 in last 10): Minnesota averages 3.3 goals scored and 2.9 allowed. They’ve won four of seven, including 4-1 over Calgary (Jan. 29) and 4-3 SO over Chicago (Jan. 27). Losses include 7-1 to Ottawa (Jan. 22) and 4-3 OT to Florida (Jan. 24), showing defensive slips

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs CGYW 4-1
Jan 27vs CHIW 4-3 (SO)
Jan 24vs FLAL 3-4 (OT)
Jan 22vs OTTL 1-7
Jan 19vs CHIW 6-3

Oilers (6-3-1 in last 10): Edmonton averages 4.1 goals scored and 3.5 allowed. They’ve won three straight, including 4-3 OT over San Jose (Jan. 29), 7-4 over Anaheim (Jan. 26), and 6-5 OT over Washington (Jan. 24). Losses include 6-2 to Pittsburgh (Jan. 22)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs SJSW 4-3 (OT)
Jan 26vs ANAW 7-4
Jan 24vs WSHW 6-5 (OT)
Jan 22vs PITL 2-6
Jan 20vs BOSW 6-2

Injury Report

Wild:

Jonas Brodin (D, lower body): IR, expected out until Mar. 3

Zach Bogosian (D, undisclosed): IR, expected out until Jan. 31

Oilers:

Adam Henrique (C, undisclosed): LTIR, expected out until Feb. 25

Projected starters: Filip Gustavsson (MIN, .912 SV%) vs. Connor Ingram (EDM, .905 SV%)

Key Player Matchups

Kirill Kaprizov (Wild LW) vs. Connor McDavid (Oilers C): Kaprizov leads Minnesota with 29 goals and 66 points; his speed tests McDavid (34G, 94P), the NHL’s top playmaker

Matt Boldy (Wild RW) vs. Evan Bouchard (Oilers D): Boldy (29G, 55P) is Minnesota’s sniper; Bouchard (15G, 59P) must contain him while contributing offensively

Brock Faber (Wild D) vs. Leon Draisaitl (Oilers C): Faber anchors Minnesota’s blue line; Draisaitl (25G, 50P) exploits mismatches.

Goaltending Duel: Filip Gustavsson (Wild) vs. Connor Ingram (Oilers): Gustavsson (18-9-6, .910 SV%) vs. Ingram (recent strong starts)

Projected Lineups

Wild: Kaprizov-Eriksson Ek-Boldy; Zuccarello-Rossi-Hartman; Foligno-Trentin-Frederic; Duhaime-Sturm-Jones. Defense: Faber-Spurgeon; Middleton-Bogosian (if available); Merrill-Mermis. Goalie: Gustavsson.

Oilers: McDavid-Draisaitl-Hyman; Nugent-Hopkins-Henrique (if available)-Arvidsson; Janmark-Holloway-Skinner; Perry-Brown-Ryan. Defense: Ekholm-Bouchard; Nurse-Stecher; Kulak-Emberson. Goalie: Ingram.

Series History

Edmonton holds the all-time edge: 65-33-10 overall, 39-55-14 in regular season. Recently, Minnesota has won 10 of the last 14 (10-4-0 since Jan. 30, 2021)

At Rogers Place, Oilers are 20-27-3-4 vs. Wild.

Betting Trends

Oilers 6-3-1 in last 10; Wild 5-3-2. Over has hit in 31 of Edmonton’s 55 games; Under in 4 of Minnesota’s last 7 road games. Oilers 3-2 in last 5 home; Wild 8-3 in last 11 as road underdogs of +201 or greater

Game Odds

Minnesota Wild               6.5

Edmonton Oilers              – 135

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026

NHL Game Preview: Dallas Stars (31-14-9) vs. Utah Mammoth (28-22-4)

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The Dallas Stars (31-14-9) head to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Mammoth (28-22-4) in an interconference battle. Dallas sits second in the Central Division, riding a balanced attack and strong goaltending, while Utah, fourth in the Central, has been resilient at home but hampered by injuries. This is their second meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Dallas winning 2-1 in a shootout on Jan. 15. Expect a defensive tilt, with Dallas’ road prowess clashing against Utah’s home-ice urgency before the Olympic break.

Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, Utah

Puck drop is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. MT)

TV/Streaming: ESPN+, Utah 16, Victory+

Recent Team Forms

Stars (6-3-1 in last 10): Dallas averages 3.2 goals scored and 2.8 allowed. They’ve won four of six, including a 4-3 over St. Louis (Jan. 27) and 5-4 over Vegas (Jan. 29). Losses include 5-4 OT to San Jose (Jan. 10) and 6-3 to Carolina (Jan. 6)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs VGKW 5-4
Jan 27vs STLW 4-3
Jan 23@ STLW 3-2
Jan 22vs CBJL 0-1
Jan 20vs BOSW 6-2

Mammoth (5-5-0 in last 10): Utah averages 3.0 goals scored and 3.2 allowed. They’ve alternated wins, including 5-2 over Nashville (Jan. 24) and 7-1 over Vegas (Jan. 25), but losses like 5-4 to Carolina (Jan. 29) and 4-1 to Nashville (Jan. 24)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29@ CARL 4-5
Jan 27vs FLAW 4-3
Jan 25vs VGKW 7-1
Jan 24vs NSHW 5-2
Jan 22vs OTTL 1-7

Injury Report

Stars:

Ilya Lyubushkin (D, lower body): Out until at least Feb. 2

Lian Bichsel (D, lower body): Out until at least Feb. 2

Tyler Seguin (C, ACL/knee): Out indefinitely

Mammoth:

Dylan Guenther (RW, lower body): Day-to-day, out recently

Alexander Kerfoot (C, upper body): IR, out indefinitely

Logan Cooley (C, lower body): Day-to-day, practicing in non-contact

Projected starters: Jake Oettinger (DAL, .905 SV%) vs. Karel Vejmelka (UTA, .892 SV%)

Key Player Matchups

Roope Hintz (Stars C) vs. Clayton Keller (Mammoth RW): Hintz (20G, 40P) leads Dallas’ rush; Keller (18G, 35P) counters with speed.

Jason Robertson (Stars LW) vs. Mikhail Sergachev (Mammoth D): Robertson (22G, 45P) exploits edges; Sergachev shuts down top lines.

Matt Duchene (Stars C) vs. Nick Schmaltz (Mammoth C): Duchene (recent multi-goal games); Schmaltz (15G, 30P) in faceoffs.

Goaltending Duel: Jake Oettinger (Stars) vs. Karel Vejmelka (Mammoth): Oettinger (2.65 GAA); Vejmelka exploits Dallas’ occasional turnovers.

Series History

Dallas leads all-time 4-2, including 2-1 on the road.

Recent: Dallas won 2-1 SO on Jan. 15. Utah is 1-2 at home vs. Dallas.

Betting Trends

Stars 6-2 as +201 or greater underdogs; Mammoth 3-2 last 5. Over in 6 of Dallas’ last 9; Under in 4 of Utah’s last 7 home.

Game Odds

Dallas Stars                         5.5

Utah Mammoth               – 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026

NHL Game Preview: Toronto Maple Leafs (24-21-9) vs. Vancouver Canucks (18-31-5)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs (24-21-9) visit the Vancouver Canucks (18-31-5) in an interconference matchup with contrasting fortunes. Toronto, fourth in the Atlantic, is mired in a six-game losing streak and dealing with injuries but boasts offensive depth. Vancouver, last in the Pacific, has struggled all season with a poor home record (6-17-3) and major absences, including their starting goalie for the year. This is their second meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Toronto winning 5-0 on Jan. 10. Expect a game where Toronto’s talent could shine against Vancouver’s depleted lineup, but the Canucks’ desperation at home might keep it close.

Venue: Rogers Arena, Vancouver, British Columbia

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

TV/Streaming: ESPN+, SN, CBC

Recent Team Forms

Toronto is on a six-game slide, struggling defensively. Vancouver has lost eight of their last 10, with poor scoring.

Maple Leafs (2-6-2 in last 10): Toronto averages 2.8 goals scored and 4.3 allowed recently. They’ve been outscored 26-18 in their skid, with defensive breakdowns. Wins include 5-4 over Vancouver (Jan. 23) and 2-1 over Edmonton (Jan. 20), but recent losses like 4-3 to Winnipeg (Jan. 27) and 3-2 OT to Nashville (Jan. 29) show close games slipping away

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs NSHL 2-3 (OT)
Jan 27vs WPGL 3-4
Jan 25@ SEAL 2-4
Jan 23@ VANW 5-4
Jan 20@ EDMW 2-1

Canucks (2-8-0 in last 10): Vancouver averages 2.2 goals scored and 3.8 allowed, with a leaky defense. They’ve been outscored 38-22 in this stretch. Wins include 4-3 over Anaheim (Jan. 25) and 3-1 over Calgary (Jan. 23), but blowouts like 5-1 to Seattle (Jan. 27) and 4-1 to Minnesota (Jan. 29) highlight issues

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29@ MINL 1-4
Jan 27@ SEAL 1-5
Jan 25vs ANAW 4-3
Jan 23vs CGYW 3-1
Jan 21vs VANL 3-4

Injury Report

Maple Leafs:

William Nylander (RW, groin): IR, expected to return Jan. 31 or soon; missed seven games

Christopher Tanev (D, groin): LTIR, expected out until Jan. 31

Dakota Joshua (C, kidney/upper body): LTIR, expected out until Feb. 28

Canucks:

Thatcher Demko (G, hip): IR, out for the season post-surgery

Brock Boeser (RW, concussion): IR, out until at least Feb. 4; in protocol

Zeev Buium (D, face/cheekbone): IR, out until after Olympics (Feb. 25)

Nils Hoglander (LW, lower body): Day-to-day

Marco Rossi (C, lower body): IR, out until after Olympics

Projected starters: Anthony Stolarz (TOR) vs. Kevin Lankinen (VAN)

Key Player Matchups

Auston Matthews (Maple Leafs C) vs. Quinn Hughes (Canucks D): Matthews leads Toronto with 28 goals; his sniping tests Hughes (top defenseman, 40+ points).

Mitch Marner (Maple Leafs RW) vs. J.T. Miller (Canucks C): Marner (50+ points) brings playmaking; Miller (Vancouver’s leader, 20G) must shut him down.

Elias Pettersson (Canucks C) vs. Morgan Rielly (Maple Leafs D): Pettersson (13G, 20A) is Vancouver’s top scorer; Rielly must contain him.

Goaltending Duel: Anthony Stolarz (Maple Leafs) vs. Kevin Lankinen (Canucks): Stolarz steps in; Lankinen faces Toronto’s attack.

Series History

Toronto holds a 75-66-25 all-time edge over Vancouver.

In regular season, it’s 69-71-26 for Vancouver. Recently, Toronto is 4-6 in the last 10, but won the most recent 5-0 on Jan. 10. At Rogers Arena, Canucks are 29-44-11 vs. Toronto

Betting Trends

Over/Under: Over has hit in 32 of Toronto’s 54 games; 28 of Vancouver’s 54. Maple Leafs 2-6 SU in last 8; Canucks 2-8 SU in last 10. Toronto 6-20 as +201 underdogs; Vancouver 3-2 ATS last 5

Game Odds

Toronto Maple Leafs      – 155

Vancouver Canucks         6.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026