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NHL Game Preview: Colorado Avalanche (35-8-9) vs. Detroit Red Wings (32-17-6)

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NHL Game Preview: Colorado Avalanche (35-8-9) vs. Detroit Red Wings (32-17-6)

The Colorado Avalanche (35-8-9) visit the Detroit Red Wings (32-17-6) in a cross-conference clash with playoff implications. The Avalanche lead the Central Division and sit atop the Western Conference, boasting elite offense but recent defensive lapses. The Red Wings, second in the Atlantic, have been steady at home but face a tough test against Colorado’s star power. This is their only scheduled meeting of the 2025-26 season, reviving echoes of their historic 1990s-2000s rivalry. Expect high-scoring action given both teams’ potent attacks.

Venue: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan

Puck drop is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT, 11:00 a.m. MT)

TV/Streaming: ABC, ESPN+, Hulu, Sportsnet

Recent Team Forms

The Avalanche have cooled off after a hot start, going 4-5-2 in their last 11 with defensive issues. The Red Wings are 6-2-2 in their last 10, riding home strength but dealing with a flu bug.

Avalanche (4-5-1 in last 10): Colorado averages 3.7 goals scored but 3.9 allowed recently. They’ve dropped two straight, including a 7-3 thrashing by Montreal (Jan. 29) where they were outshot in the third. Wins include a 4-1 over Toronto (Jan. 25) and 5-2 over Washington (Jan. 19), but losses to Ottawa (5-2, Jan. 28) and Florida (2-1, Jan. 4) highlight road woes

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29@ MTLL 3-7
Jan 28@ OTTL 2-5
Jan 25@ TORW 4-1
Jan 23@ PHIL 3-7
Jan 21@ LAKL 1-2 (SO)

Red Wings (6-2-2 in last 10): Detroit averages 3.0 goals scored and 2.1 allowed, with strong goaltending. They’ve won four of six at home, including a 5-1 over Vancouver (Jan. 8) and 4-0 shutout over Montreal (Jan. 10). Recent losses include 3-1 to LA (Jan. 27) and 4-3 OT to Carolina (Jan. 12), but a 5-1 over Winnipeg (Jan. 24) shows resilience

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29vs WSHL 3-4
Jan 27vs LAKL 1-3
Jan 24@ WPGW 5-1
Jan 22vs PHIW 3-2
Jan 21@ UTAL 2-3 (OT)

Injury Report

Injuries hit Colorado’s depth, while Detroit manages a key defenseman absence and illness.

Avalanche:

Gabriel Landeskog (LW, upper body/broken ribs): Out, expected back in weeks

Logan O’Connor (RW, hip surgery): Out indefinitely.

Devon Toews (D, upper body): Day-to-day, game-time decision.

Joel Kiviranta (F, lower body): Week-to-week.

Red Wings:

Simon Edvinsson (D, lower body): Out, on IR since Jan. 28

Team-wide flu bug: Potential late scratches, recalls include Justin Holl (D) and Sheldon Dries (F).

Projected starters: Scott Wedgewood (Avs, .905 SV%) vs. John Gibson (Wings, .893 SV%)

Key Player Matchups

This game features star forwards clashing with top defensemen, plus a goaltending battle.

Nathan MacKinnon (Avs C) vs. Dylan Larkin (Wings C): MacKinnon leads the NHL with 38 goals and 85 points, on a tear with multi-point games. He’ll face Larkin (Wings captain, 25G, 50P), a shutdown center who’s key in faceoffs (54% FO%)

Martin Necas (Avs RW) vs. Alex DeBrincat (Wings RW): Necas (acquired mid-season) has 20 goals; his speed tests DeBrincat (23G, 45P), Detroit’s top sniper with 3 points in a recent shutout

Cale Makar (Avs D) vs. Lucas Raymond (Wings LW): Makar (10G, 40A) quarterbacks Colorado’s power play (28% efficiency). Raymond (20G, 42P) is Detroit’s breakout star, challenging Makar’s mobility

Goaltending Duel: Scott Wedgewood (Avs) vs. John Gibson (Wings): Wedgewood (2.61 GAA) steps up with injuries; Gibson (three shutouts) has been lights-out, including a 27-save blanking vs. Montreal

Projected Lineups (per NHL.com

Avalanche: Rantanen-MacKinnon-Nelson; Lehkonen-Necas-Nichushkin; Wood-Colton-Mittelstadt; Kiviranta (if available)-Trent Frederic-Makarov. Defense: Girard-Makar; Johnson-Manson; Malinski-Behrens. Goalie: Wedgewood.

Red Wings: DeBrincat-Larkin-Raymond; Kane-Compher-Tarasenko; Berggren-Copp-Rasmussen; Motte-Kaspar-Veleno. Defense: Chiarot-Seider; Maatta-Petry; Gustafsson-Holl (recall). Goalie: Gibson.

Series History

Detroit holds the all-time edge: 84-74-5-6 overall (including playoffs), with a 67-57-5-6 regular-season record. The rivalry peaked from 1996-2002 with five playoff meetings and five combined Stanley Cups (Detroit 3, Colorado 2) Recently, Colorado has won three straight, including a 5-2 victory in their last matchup (March 2025). At Little Caesars Arena, Detroit is 4-3 in the last seven.

Game Odds

Colorado Avalanche       – 155

Detroit Red Wings           6.5

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

NHL Morning Skate – January 31, 2026

NHL Editor
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NHL Morning Skate – January 31, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Jan. 31, 2026

* The two hottest teams in the NHL will hit the ice for practice in Florida today when the Lightning (11 a.m. ET) and Bruins (1 p.m. ET) practice at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa before clashing in the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series on Sunday (6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, SN, TVAS).

* January will conclude with an ABC Hockey Saturday doubleheader featuring four teams captained by players heading to Milan, plus a jam-packed Hockey Night in Canada slate on Sportsnet which includes a key Atlantic Division battle and two of the League’s two highest scoring defensemen this season.

* Charlie Coyle extended a League record by notching the NHL’s 31st hat trick in January (the most all-time in any calendar month) and Zach Werenski (Team USA) tallied two assists to spur Columbus to a 7-1-0 record under new head coach Rick Bowness. Werenski (19-40—59) now shares the NHL lead in points among defensemen, one shy of the most by a blueliner before an Olympic break (Mike Green: 14-46—60 in 2009-10 w/ WSH).

#NHLSTATS MEMOS TO MILAN: LEADERSHIP, AWARD-WINNING DEFENSE

Four teams who will send their captains to Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 and a bevy of decorated defensemen who will be key to their country’s medal hopes will hit the ice for matinee action this afternoon.

* NHL captains Dylan Larkin (DET; Team USA), Gabriel Landeskog (COL; Team Sweden), J.T. Miller (NYR; Team USA) and Sidney Crosby (PIT; Team Canada) have all been tabbed to represent their country in Milan, with Crosby (gold in 2010 & 2014) and Landeskog (silver in 2014) the two of the group with prior Olympic experience. Landeskog has not played since Jan. 4, however, earlier this week Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said that he could return to the lineup before the Olympic break.

* Crosby and Landeskog went head-to-head in the gold medal game in 2014, with Crosby scoring Team Canada’s second goal in a 3-0 victory. The only two countries to meet in a gold medal game multiple times at Olympics with NHL players are Team Canada and Team USA (2002 & 2010).

* Six Norris Trophy winners (9 total wins) will be representing their country in Milan, with Team Sweden (Erik Karlsson & Victor Hedman) and Team Canada (Cale Makar & Drew Doughty) boasting two on their respective roster. The others participating are Team Switzerland’s Roman Josi (2019-20) and Team USA’s Quinn Hughes (2015-16).

* Red Wings defenseman Moritz Seider (Team Germany) is a Calder Trophy winner (2021-22) and could be in the mix of Norris Trophy contenders in 2025-26. Seider (No. 6 in 2019) is the highest-drafted German-born defenseman in NHL history and will be playing alongside Leon Draisaitl (No. 3 in 2014) and Tim Stützle (No. 3 in 2020) – the two highest selected German born-and-trained players in the history of the NHL Draft.

* Just five seasons (383 GP) into his NHL career, Seider already ranks fourth among German-born defensemen in career points – every player ahead of him on the list skated in over 700 career NHL games.

* Martin Necas will represent Team Czechia in Milan and has actively been working to grow the game in his home country through a hockey camp he started. Necas (22-40—62 in 52 GP) is currently tied for most goals among Czechia players this season with soon-to-be teammate David Pastrnak (22) and sits second in points behind Pastrnak (69) – he is a role model for youth in Czechia and wants to encourage young people to chase their dreams in hockey.

CANADIENS-SABRES SET UP CRITICAL CLASH ON HOCKEY NIGHT IN CANADA
A quartet of contests will make up Sportsnet’s Hockey Night in Canada slate and features a pivotal matchup between the Sabres (31-17-15, 67 points) and Canadiens (30-17-7, 67 points) to determine if Buffalo can hold on to the Atlantic Division’s third seed or if Montreal will leapfrog them in the standings.

* Buffalo and Montreal enter their bout tied in terms of standings points and can both make the postseason in the same year for the first time since 2011. The Canadiens will visit a Sabres team that own the third-highest points percentage at home this season (.712) and have won five straight games thanks in part to hat tricks in their past two. Montreal, meanwhile, carries the fourth-highest (tied) road points percentage in 2025-26 (.654) as their captain Nick Suzuki looks to follow up his multi-goal outing with another and reach the 20-goal mark for the fifth straight season.

* The lone all-Canadian matchup will see Toronto’s Auston Matthews (11) aim to finish the month first in goals when he faces Vancouver. Matthews enters one back of Brock Nelson (12) for the most goals this January and can become the second American in NHL history to lead a calendar month in goals (tied or outright) at least nine times, following Brett Hull (12x). The only other active players to do so as many times are Alex Ovechkin (14x) and Steven Stamkos (10x).
 

* Calgary will also be featured on Sportsnet ahead of Hockey Night in Canada with a 4 p.m. ET matinee that will see the team celebrate women in sports. Susan Darrington, the Flames’ Chief Venues & Entertainment Officer and Head of Scotia Place, will be featured today as part of the Women in Hockey series presented by Canadian Tire. Darrington has over a decade of experience in hockey and is playing an integral role in bringing a new arena to the city.

NHL’S HOTTEST TEAMS TO PRACTICE AT RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM SATURDAY

The Lightning (11-1-1, 23 points; .855 P%) and Bruins (11-2-1, 23 points; .821 P%) are the NHL’s top teams since Jan. 1 – and would meet in the First Round if the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs started today – as they head toward a clash outdoors at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa for the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series on Sunday (6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, SN, TVAS).

* Prior to Sunday’s showdown, the Lightning (11 a.m. ET) and Bruins (1 p.m. ET) will skate on the stadium ice for the first time Saturday. The practices are scheduled to take place under the climate-controlled structure to keep the ice in optimal condition for game day.
 

* The NHL announced Friday that based on current weather forecasts, the dismantling of the climate-controlled structure at Raymond James Stadium, originally scheduled to begin at 6 a.m. on Sunday, will now begin at 12 a.m. on Sunday. This could allow the process to be complete around 10 a.m. on game day.

STADIUM SERIES QUICK CLICKS

* Lightning ‘can’t wait’ for Stadium Series amid red-hot stretch

* NHL EDGE stats to watch for ahead of Stadium Series

* Hardworking Nikita Kucherov leads Lightning into Stadium Series

* Bruins looking to gain ground on Lightning at Stadium Series

* #NHLStats Pack: 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series

QUICK CLICKS

* Patrick Kane reflects on ‘special, special moment’ in passing Mike Modano
* Lucas Raymond emerging as star for Red Wings, hopes to do same for Team Sweden

* Mika Zibanejad dreams of Olympic glory with Sweden during rebound season with Rangers

* NHL EDGE stats behind record 30 hat tricks in January

* Zach Werenski shines in #NHLStats: Live Updates

ICYMI: PODCAST ROUND UP


* 100% Hockey (Jan. 30): Jim Nill on Dallas, the Olympics & What Matters
* NHL Fantasy on Ice (Jan. 29): Possible Panarin trade destinations; Week 17 mailbag
* NHL Unscripted with Virk and Demers (Jan. 29): Nate Thompson returns
* 100% Hockey (Jan. 28): Ray Ferraro on the NHL heading into the Olympic Break
* La Tasse de Café LNH (Jan. 28): Entretien avec Vincent Desharnais
* NHL @TheRink (Jan. 27): Tom Gulitti joins; Capitals & Panarin
* NHL Schlagschuss (Jan. 27): Peterka: „Das wird ein richtig geiles Erlebnis!“
* Never Offside with Julie and Cat (Jan. 27): Alex Nedeljkovic joins
* NHL Fantasy on Ice (Jan. 26): Surging Ducks, Penguins, Mammoth; Week 17 pickups
* 100% Hockey (Jan. 26): Doug MacLean on Nylander, Playoff Races

NHL Game Preview: Los Angeles Kings (22-17-13) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (24-20-9)

NHL Editor
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NHL Game Preview: Los Angeles Kings (22-17-13) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (24-20-9)

The Los Angeles Kings (22-17-13) head to Philadelphia to face the Flyers (24-20-9) in an interconference matchup. Both teams are mid-pack in their respective conferences—the Kings sit 10th in the West, while the Flyers are 14th in the East. This is their first meeting of the 2025-26 season, with the Kings looking to build on a recent point streak and the Flyers aiming to snap a prolonged slump. The game features intriguing contrasts: LA’s balanced offense against Philly’s resilient but leaky defense.

Venue: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Puck drop is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET (9:30 a.m. PT)

TV/Streaming: ESPN+, NBCSP, FDSNW, SN1

Recent Team Forms

Both squads have struggled for consistency, but the Flyers are in a deeper rut.

Kings (4-3-3 in last 10): LA has earned points in six straight before a 4-1 loss to Buffalo on Jan. 29. They’ve averaged 2.2 goals scored and 2.8 allowed per game recently, showing solid defense but offensive inconsistency. Key wins include a 3-1 victory over Detroit (Jan. 27) and a 4-3 shootout over Edmonton (Jan. 10). Losses have come against stronger teams like Dallas (3-1) and Winnipeg (5-1).

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29@ BUFL 1-4
Jan 27vs DETW 3-1
Jan 26vs STLW 5-4 (SO)
Jan 24@ CHIPostponed
Jan 22vs ANAW 2-1

Flyers (2-7-1 in last 10): Philly is on a three-game losing streak and has dropped seven of their last eight, averaging 2.8 goals scored but a porous 4.2 allowed. They’ve been outscored 42-28 in this stretch. A bright spot was a 7-3 win over Colorado (Jan. 23), but recent blowouts include 6-3 to Boston (Jan. 29) and 5-3 to Columbus (Jan. 28).

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResult
Jan 29@ BOSL 3-6
Jan 28@ CBJL 3-5
Jan 26vs NYIL 0-4
Jan 23@ COLW 7-3
Jan 21@ UTAL 4-5 (OT)

Injury Report

Injuries could play a big role, especially in goal for Philly.

Kings:

Anze Kopitar (C, lower body): On IR, expected out until Feb. 28

Alex Turcotte (C, upper body): Out until at least Feb. 4.

Joel Armia (F, upper body): Day-to-day but expected to play.

Flyers:

Tyson Foerster (RW, arm): Out

Rodrigo Abols (C, fractured ankle): On IR, out indefinitely.

Samuel Ersson (G, lower body): Day-to-day, status uncertain after leaving Jan. 29 game.

Rasmus Ristolainen (D, lower body): Day-to-day, exited Jan. 28 game early.

If Ersson is out, Dan Vladar starts for Philly. Darcy Kuemper is projected for LA.

Key Player Matchups

This game hinges on top forwards exploiting defensive weaknesses and goaltending stability.

Adrian Kempe (Kings RW) vs. Travis Sanheim (Flyers D): Kempe leads LA with 18 goals and 41 points, on a five-game point streak. He’ll test Sanheim, Philly’s top-pair defenseman (averaging 22+ minutes), who has been part of a unit allowing 4+ goals in recent losses.

Quinton Byfield (Kings C) vs. Sean Couturier (Flyers C): Byfield (9G, 19A) is LA’s playmaker, facing Couturier’s shutdown style. Couturier has 10 points in his last 10 but Philly’s center depth is thin with injuries.

Travis Konecny (Flyers RW) vs. Drew Doughty (Kings D): Konecny tops Philly with 21 goals and 50 points, including a hat trick on Jan. 28. Doughty (LA’s veteran blueliner, 20+ minutes per game) must contain him to limit Philly’s counterattacks.

Goaltending Duel: Darcy Kuemper (Kings) vs. Dan Vladar (Flyers): Kuemper (solid .896 SV% career) faces a Flyers team that’s aggressive but turnover-prone. Vladar (.896 SV%) returned from injury but allowed 4 goals on Jan. 28; he’ll need support against LA’s shot volume (30+ per game recently).

Projected Lineups (per NHL.com

Kings: Perry-Laferriere-Kempe; Moore-Byfield-Foegele; Fiala-Armia-Kuzmenko; Connors-Helenius-Ward. Defense: Anderson-Doughty; Dumoulin-Ceci; Edmundson-Clarke. Goalie: Kuemper.

Flyers: Grebenkin-Dvorak-Konecny; Tippett-Couturier-Zegras; Michkov-Brink-Cates; Pederson-Grundstrom-Barkey. Defense: York-Sanheim; Seeler-Ristolainen (if available); Drysdale-Juulsen. Goalie: Vladar (or Ersson).

Series History

The Flyers hold a commanding all-time edge: 91-46-22 overall against the Kings.

However, LA has dominated recently, going 6-3-1 in the last 10 meetings (including a 5-3 win on Dec. 31, 2019, in their most recent matchup). The Kings are 4-0 in their last four visits to Philly, outscoring the Flyers 16-9.

Betting Trends

Over/Under: The Over has hit in 24 of LA’s 52 games and 28 of Philly’s 53. Kings are 8-15 SU in last 23 road games; Flyers are 3-9 ATS in last 12 overall. LA is 1-5 ATS in last 6; Philly is 4-1 ATS in last 5 home games vs. West teams.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Kings            – 112

Philadelphia Flyers         5.5

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

NBA Game Preview: Dallas Mavericks (19-29) vs. Houston Rockets (29-17)

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NBA Game Preview: Dallas Mavericks (19-29) vs. Houston Rockets (29-17)

The Dallas Mavericks (19-29) face the Houston Rockets (29-17) in a Southwest Division rivalry game. The Mavericks, 12th in the Western Conference, are on a three-game losing streak and dealing with significant injuries, including star big man Anthony Davis, as they try to snap a skid against a surging Rockets team. Houston, fourth in the West, has won seven of their last 10 and boasts a strong home record (16-4), aiming to extend their dominance in the series this season. This is the fourth meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Dallas winning two of the first three, including a 110-104 victory on Jan. 3. Expect Houston’s balanced attack to overwhelm Dallas’ depleted lineup, but the Mavericks’ rookie sensation Cooper Flagg could keep it competitive if he replicates his recent 49-point outburst.

Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas

Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT)

TV/Streaming: ABC, SCHN, KFAA, NBA League Pass

Recent Team Forms

The Mavericks are in a slump, losing three straight with poor shooting (43.2% FG in losses). The Rockets have won seven of 10, with strong home performances averaging 118 points.

Mavericks (4-6 in last 10): Dallas averages 110.2 points scored and 116.4 allowed. They’ve dropped three in a row, including a 121-123 loss to Charlotte (Jan. 29) despite Cooper Flagg’s 49 points. Wins include 110-104 over Houston (Jan. 3) and 118-105 over Minnesota (Jan. 23), but road offense has dipped (102 PPG in last five away)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29vs CHAL121-123
Jan 28vs MINL105-118
Jan 26vs GSWL111-123
Jan 25vs GSWW111-85
Jan 23@ MINW118-105

Rockets (7-3 in last 10): Houston averages 115.6 points scored and 110.8 allowed. They’ve won their last game over Atlanta (Jan. 29), with wins like 132-116 over Indiana (Jan. 26) and 104-95 over San Antonio (Jan. 25). Losses include 104-110 to Dallas (Jan. 3), but home defense shines (102 GA/G in last five home)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29@ ATLW123-121
Jan 28vs CHAW112-97
Jan 26vs INDW132-116
Jan 25vs SASW104-95
Jan 23@ TORW106-103

Injury Report

Injuries severely impact Dallas, thinning their frontcourt and backcourt.

Mavericks:

Anthony Davis (PF, left finger sprain): Out

Kyrie Irving (SG, left knee surgery): Out indefinitely

Dereck Lively II (C, right foot surgery): Out

Dante Exum (PG, right knee surgery): Out

Naji Marshall (SF, rest): Day-to-day

Moussa Cisse (C, G League – Two-Way): Probable

Rockets:

Steven Adams (C, left ankle surgery): Out for season

Fred VanVleet (PG, right knee ACL repair): Out for season

Tristen Newton (G, G League – Two-Way): Out

Projected starters: Cooper Flagg (DAL rookie) steps up with injuries; Alperen Sengun leads Houston.

Key Player Matchups

Dallas’ youth movement faces Houston’s veteran core, with injuries shifting the balance.

Cooper Flagg (Mavericks SF) vs. Jabari Smith Jr. (Rockets PF): Flagg (rookie phenom, 19.5 PPG, recent 49-point game) brings athleticism; Smith (15.5 PPG, 8 RPG) must contain him inside

P.J. Washington (Mavericks PF) vs. Dillon Brooks (Rockets SF): Washington (15 PPG) provides spacing; Brooks (defensive specialist, 12 PPG) exploits mismatches.

Klay Thompson (Mavericks SG, if available) vs. Cam Whitmore (Rockets SG): Thompson (knee soreness, sat recent) vs. Whitmore (emerging scorer).

Matchup to Watch: Mavericks’ perimeter shooting (37% 3PT) vs. Rockets’ defense (top-10 in opponent 3PT%).

Series History

The Rockets hold a slight all-time regular-season edge: 106-98 over the Mavericks. In playoffs, Dallas leads 2-1 series. Recently, Mavericks are 5-5 in the last 10, including a 110-104 win on Jan. 3. At Toyota Center, Rockets are 58-43 all-time vs. Dallas. Games average 207.8 points in the last 10, with the under hitting in six

Betting Trends

Rockets 5-8 ATS as 10.5+ favorites; Mavericks 3-2 ATS as 11+ underdogs. Over has hit in 6 of Houston’s last 9; Under in 4 of Dallas’ last 5 road games. Houston 6-3 ATS in last 9 home; Dallas 1-10 ATS in last 11 road. Rockets 4-1 ATS vs. Southwest opponents

Game Odds

Dallas Mavericks              222.5

Houston Rockets              – 10.5

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

NBA Game Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (30-19) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (18-28)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (30-19) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (18-28)

The Minnesota Timberwolves (30-19) face the Memphis Grizzlies (18-28) in a Western Conference interdivision matchup. The Timberwolves, fifth in the West, are on a three-game win streak and looking to extend it against a struggling Grizzlies team that’s lost five straight and sits 12th in the conference. Memphis is dealing with significant injuries, including star Ja Morant, which has hampered their season. This is their second meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Minnesota winning 119-97 on Nov. 26. Expect the Timberwolves’ defense to stifle Memphis’ depleted offense, though the Grizzlies’ home crowd could provide a boost in a potential low-scoring affair.

Venue: FedExForum, Memphis,

Tipoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET (5:00 p.m.

TV/Streaming: FDSN, FDSSE, WMC-TV, NBA League

Recent Team Forms

The Timberwolves are surging with three straight wins, averaging 116.3 points in that stretch. The Grizzlies are in a tailspin, losing five in a row and averaging just 102.8 points.

Timberwolves (6-4 in last 10): Minnesota averages 113.4 points scored and 107.2 allowed recently. They’ve won three straight, showcasing balanced scoring and elite defense. Key wins include 123-111 over Oklahoma City (Jan. 29) with 22 threes and 118-105 at Dallas (Jan. 28). Losses like 85-111 to Golden State (Jan. 25) highlight occasional offensive droughts, but rebounding (45.0 per game in last 10) has been strong

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29vs OKCW123-111web:35web:36
Jan 28@ DALW118-105web:35web:37
Jan 26vs GSWW108-83web:35web:37
Jan 25vs GSWL85-111web:35web:37web:38
Jan 23@ DALL105-118web:35web:37

Grizzlies (3-7 in last 10): Memphis averages 106.2 points scored and 118.4 allowed, with poor shooting (44.2 FG%). They’ve lost five straight, including 114-106 at New Orleans (Jan. 30) and 97-112 vs. Charlotte (Jan. 28). A win over Denver (Jan. 6) shows potential, but injuries have led to defensive collapses (opponents 50% FG in losses)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 30@ NOPL106-114web:41web:42web:43
Jan 28vs CHAL97-112web:40web:42
Jan 26@ ATLL116-132web:40web:42
Jan 25vs DENL100-105web:42web:44
Jan 23vs NOPL121-133web:40web:42web:44

Injury Report

Injuries heavily favor Minnesota, with Memphis missing multiple starters.

Timberwolves:

Terrence Shannon Jr. (G, foot): Out, expected back Feb 2.

Mike Conley (PG, back): Available, not listed

Grizzlies:

Ja Morant (PG, elbow sprain): Out, expected to miss two weeks

Brandon Clarke (PF, calf strain): Out

Zach Edey (C, ankle stress reaction): Out

Scotty Pippen Jr. (G, toe): GTD

Santi Aldama (F, knee injury management): Out

Ty Jerome (G, calf strain): Doubtful

Projected starters: Anthony Edwards (MIN) vs. whoever for MEM (likely Cam Spencer at PG with Morant out).

Key Player Matchups

This game pits Minnesota’s defensive anchors against Memphis’ remaining offensive threats, with injuries shifting dynamics.

Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves SG) vs. Jaren Jackson Jr. (Grizzlies PF): Edwards (29.3 PPG, 5.2 APG) is Minnesota’s scoring machine, on a tear with 26+ points in three straight; Jackson (22.5 PPG, 2.8 BPG) must anchor Memphis’ defense without key support.

Julius Randle (Timberwolves PF) vs. Jaylen Wells (Grizzlies SF): Randle (22.2 PPG, 9.8 RPG) provides physicality; Wells (rookie standout) needs to step up scoring with absences.

Rudy Gobert (Timberwolves C) vs. Jock Landale (Grizzlies C): Gobert (12.5 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 2.2 BPG) dominates the paint; Landale fills in for Edey, facing a tough matchup.

Matchup to Watch: Timberwolves’ 3-point shooting (top-10 at 38.5%) vs. Grizzlies’ perimeter defense (opponents 37% from three without Morant).

Series History

The Grizzlies hold a slight all-time edge: 55-58 against the Timberwolves in regular-season games. In playoffs, Memphis leads 1-0 series (2022 first round). Recently, Minnesota is 6-4 in the last 10, including a 119-97 win on Nov. 26 where they held Memphis to 40% shooting. At FedExForum, Grizzlies are 1-4 in the last five vs. Minnesota. Games average 224.5 points in the last 10, with the under hitting in six.

Betting Trends

Trends: Timberwolves 22-27 ATS overall, 10-14 ATS on road; Grizzlies 20-26 ATS, 9-14 ATS at home. Minnesota 13-11 SU as favorites; Memphis 8-20 SU as underdogs. Over has hit in 25 of Grizzlies’ 46 games; Under in 4 of Timberwolves’ last 5 road games. Timberwolves 3-2 ATS in last 5 vs. Grizzlies; series over in 6 of last 10

Game Odds

Minnesota Timberwolves            – 7.5

Memphis Grizzlies                          229.5

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

NBA Game Preview: Chicago Bulls (23-25) vs. Miami Heat (26-23)

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NBA Game Preview: Chicago Bulls (23-25) vs. Miami Heat (26-23)

The Chicago Bulls (23-25) visit the Miami Heat (26-23) in an Eastern Conference matchup with playoff implications. The Bulls, 12th in the East, are in a three-game skid and fighting for a play-in spot, while the Heat, eighth in the East, aim to build on a recent win over Chicago and solidify their position. This is the second of three straight meetings between the teams, with Miami winning the first 116-113 on Jan. 29 in Chicago. The Bulls’ road woes (5-18 away) clash with Miami’s home strength (11-15 at home, but 3-2 in last five), setting up a potential defensive battle despite recent high-scoring trends.

Venue: Kaseya Center, Miami, Florida

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

TV/Streaming: FDSSUN, CHSN, NBA League Pass

Recent Team Forms

The Bulls have struggled with consistency, going 4-6 in their last 10 amid injuries. The Heat are 5-5, with defensive lapses in losses but strong rebounding in wins.

Bulls (4-6 in last 10): Chicago averages 110.8 points scored and 115.2 allowed recently. They’ve lost three straight, including 113-116 to Miami (Jan. 29), 110-113 at Indiana (Jan. 28), and 118-129 vs. Lakers (Jan. 26). Wins include 114-111 vs. Celtics (Jan. 25) and 120-115 at Minnesota (Jan. 23), showing offensive potential but defensive breakdowns (opponents shooting 48% in losses)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29vs MIAL113-116
Jan 28@ INDL110-113
Jan 26vs LALL118-129
Jan 25vs BOSW114-111
Jan 23@ MINW120-115

Heat (5-5 in last 10): Miami averages 113.4 points scored and 112.6 allowed. They’ve won their last game 116-113 at Chicago (Jan. 29) after losses like 122-139 vs. Orlando (Jan. 27) and 116-132 at Atlanta (Jan. 26). Wins include 111-102 at Phoenix (Jan. 25) and 147-116 at Utah (Jan. 24), highlighting 3-point shooting (38% in wins)

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29@ CHIW116-113
Jan 27vs ORLL122-139
Jan 26@ ATLL116-132
Jan 25@ PHXW111-102
Jan 24@ UTAW147-116

Injury Report

Injuries loom large for both teams, with Chicago potentially missing key bigs and Miami without guards.

Bulls:

Nikola Vucevic (C, rest): Doubtful

Jalen Smith (PF, calf): Questionable

Coby White (G, calf): Questionable

Emanuel Miller (F, head): Questionable

Tre Jones (G, hamstring): Out

Zach Collins (PF, toe): Out

Noa Essengue (PF, shoulder): Out

Heat:

Tyler Herro (SG, ribs/toe): Out

Terry Rozier (PG, not with team): Out

Norman Powell (SG, personal): Out

Davion Mitchell (PG, shoulder): Doubtful

Key Player Matchups

This divisional rivalry features veteran stars and emerging talents, with defense likely deciding the outcome.

Zach LaVine (Bulls SG) vs. Jimmy Butler (Heat SF): LaVine (22.5 PPG, 38% 3PT) brings scoring volume; Butler (20.8 PPG, 6.2 APG) exploits mismatches with mid-range and playmaking.

Nikola Vucevic (Bulls C, if available) vs. Bam Adebayo (Heat C): Vucevic (18.5 PPG, 10.8 RPG) provides spacing; Adebayo (20 PPG, 12 RPG, 4 BPG) dominates inside with versatility.

Coby White (Bulls PG, if available) vs. Tyler Herro (Heat SG, out): White (19 PPG) steps up; with Herro out, White could exploit Miami’s backcourt depth.

Matchup to Watch: Bulls’ pace (top-5) vs. Heat’s transition defense (top-10 in points off turnovers allowed)—Chicago’s turnovers (15 per game) could fuel Miami counters.

Series History

The Bulls hold a slight all-time edge: 68-66 in regular-season games against the Heat. In the last 20 meetings, Chicago is 9-11. Recently, Miami has won the last game (116-113 on Jan. 29), but Chicago won four of the previous five. At Kaseya Center, Bulls are 5-2 in their last seven visits, averaging 112 points. Games average 229 points in the last 10, with the over hitting in six.

Betting Trends

Trends: Bulls 5-2 ATS in last 7 road games vs. Miami; Heat 3-2 in last 5 overall. The under has hit in 4 of Chicago’s last 5 games; over in 3 of Miami’s last 5. Bulls 2-6 ATS in last 8 as underdogs; Heat 5-2 ATS in last 7 home games. Total has gone under in 7 of Chicago’s last 8 vs. Eastern Conference opponents

Game Odds

Chicago Bulls                     234.5

Miami Heat                        -4.5

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

NBA Game Preview: New Orleans Pelicans (13-37) vs. Philadelphia Sixers (26-21)

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NBA Game Preview: New Orleans Pelicans (13-37) vs. Philadelphia Sixers (26-21)

The New Orleans Pelicans (13-37) travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers (26-21) in an Eastern vs. Western Conference clash. The Pelicans, mired at the bottom of the West (15th place), have shown flashes in recent wins but are crippled by injuries and inconsistent offense. The Sixers, sixth in the East, are building momentum with a healthy core and strong home play (14-9 at home). This is their second meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Philadelphia winning the first 123-115 on Feb. 7, 2025. Expect a lopsided affair favoring the Sixers’ balanced attack against New Orleans’ depleted lineup, though the Pelicans’ rebounding could keep it competitive early.

Venue: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT)

TV/Streaming: Gulf Coast Sports, Pelicans+, NBCS-PH, NBA League Pass

Recent Team Forms

The Sixers have won six of their last 10, with strong defense in wins. The Pelicans are 4-6 in their last 10, alternating results amid injuries.

Pelicans (4-6 in last 10): New Orleans averages 112.4 points scored and 116.3 allowed. They’ve won two straight, including 114-106 over Memphis (Jan. 30) and 133-127 over Detroit (Jan. 23), but suffered blowouts like 132-116 to Atlanta (Jan. 26). Offensive rebounds (12.5 per game in last 10) have been a bright spot, but turnovers (15.2 per game) plague them

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 30vs MEMW114-106 espn.com
Jan 27@ OKCL95-104 espn.com
Jan 25@ SASW104-95 statmuse.com +1
Jan 23@ MEMW133-127 statmuse.com
Jan 21vs DETL104-112 statmuse.com

Sixers (6-4 in last 10): Philadelphia averages 115.6 points scored and 110.4 allowed. They’ve won two straight, including 113-111 over Sacramento (Jan. 29) and 139-122 over Milwaukee (Jan. 27), but lost 130-93 to Charlotte (Jan. 26). Bench scoring (38.2 PPG in last 10) has been key, though 3-point defense (opponents 38%) is a weakness

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29vs SACW113-111 statmuse.com
Jan 27vs MILW139-122 youtube.com
Jan 26@ CHAL93-130 landofbasketball.com
Jan 25vs NYKL109-112 landofbasketball.com
Jan 23vs INDL109-112 landofbasketball.com

Injury Report

Injuries severely impact the Pelicans, while the Sixers are mostly healthy.

Pelicans:

Dejounte Murray (G, Achilles): Out

Sixers:

Quentin Grimes (G, ankle): Day-to-day, probable

Key Player Matchups

This game hinges on Philadelphia’s star power against New Orleans’ frontcourt.

Zion Williamson (Pelicans PF) vs. Joel Embiid (Sixers C): Williamson (21.0 PPG, 11.0 RPG in last 5) brings athleticism; Embiid (28.5 PPG, 11.2 RPG) dominates inside with post moves

Brandon Ingram (Pelicans SF) vs. Paul George (Sixers SF): Ingram (22.5 PPG) exploits mid-range; George (24.0 PPG, 6.0 APG) counters with defense and scoring

CJ McCollum (Pelicans PG) vs. Tyrese Maxey (Sixers PG): McCollum (18.0 PPG) provides veteran scoring; Maxey (25.5 PPG, 6.5 APG) overwhelms with speed

Matchup to Watch: Sixers’ perimeter shooting (top-10 in 3PT%) vs. Pelicans’ weak perimeter defense (opponents 38% from three).

Series History

The Pelicans hold a slight all-time edge: 24-23 in regular-season games against the 76ers.

In playoffs, they’ve never met. Recently, New Orleans has won four straight, including 112-99 on March 24, 2025, and 115-123 on Jan. 10, 2025. At Wells Fargo Center, Sixers are 12-11 all-time vs. Pelicans. Games average 228.5 points in the last 10, with the over hitting in seven.

Betting Trends

Pelicans 10-2-1 ATS in last 13 vs. Philadelphia; Sixers 4-1 SU in last 5 played on Saturday. Over has hit in 20 of Pelicans’ 50 games; Under in 4 of Sixers’ last 5 home games. Pelicans 5-1 SU in last 6 meetings; Sixers 24-22-1 ATS overall.

Game Odds

New Orleans Pelicans                    230.5

Philadelphia Sixers                         -10.5

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

NBA Game Preview: Atlanta Hawks (24-26) vs. Indiana Pacers (12-36)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: Atlanta Hawks (24-26) vs. Indiana Pacers (12-36)

The Atlanta Hawks (24-26) head to Indianapolis to face the Indiana Pacers (12-36) in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Hawks, 10th in the East, are looking to rebound from a recent loss and build on a strong record against Indiana. The Pacers, last in the Central Division, have shown flashes in close games but are plagued by injuries, including the season-ending loss of star Tyrese Haliburton. This is their second meeting of the 2025-26 season, with Atlanta winning 132-116 on Jan. 26. Expect a fast-paced game, as the over has hit in 17 of the last 20 head-to-heads, but Indiana’s depleted roster could lead to a Hawks blowout.

Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana

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

TV/Streaming: FanDuel SN IN, FDSSE, WTHR-13, NBA League Pass

Recent Team Forms

The Hawks have won six of their last 10, showing improved defense. The Pacers have struggled, going 4-6 with blowout losses.

Hawks (6-4 in last 10): Atlanta averages 114.2 points scored and 112.8 allowed. They’ve won three straight before a 104-86 loss to Houston (Jan. 29), with strong outings like 132-116 over Indiana (Jan. 26) and 117-106 at Boston (Jan. 28). Offensive efficiency has spiked, but road defense remains a concern

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 29vs HOUL86-104
Jan 28@ BOSW117-106
Jan 26vs INDW132-116
Jan 23vs PHXW110-103
Jan 21@ OKCW115-110

Pacers (4-6 in last 10): Indiana averages 110.8 points scored and 116.3 allowed. They’ve alternated results, with a 113-110 win over Chicago (Jan. 28) after a 132-116 loss at Atlanta (Jan. 26). Offensive struggles without Haliburton are evident, but they’ve covered in four of six as underdogs

Last 5 Games:

DateOpponentResultScore
Jan 28vs CHIW113-110
Jan 26@ ATLL116-132
Jan 23@ OKCW117-114
Jan 21@ BOSL104-119
Jan 19vs NOPW127-119

Injury Report

Injuries heavily favor Atlanta, with Indiana missing key starters.

Hawks:

Jalen Johnson (F, calf): Questionable

Zaccharie Risacher (F, knee bone contusion): Questionable/out

Onyeka Okongwu (F/C, dental fracture): Out

Kristaps Porzingis (C, Achilles): Out

N’Faly Dante (C, right knee ACL tear): Out for season

Pacers:

Tyrese Haliburton (G, right Achilles tear): Out for season

Obi Toppin (F, right foot stress fracture): Out

Jarace Walker (F, right foot bruise): Questionable

Key Player Matchups

Without Haliburton, Indiana’s offense runs through Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard, facing Atlanta’s versatile frontcourt.

Trae Young (Hawks PG) vs. Andrew Nembhard (Pacers PG): Young (26 PPG, 11 APG) exploits mismatches; Nembhard must contain his scoring (3.8 APG in last 10).

Jalen Johnson (Hawks F) vs. Pascal Siakam (Pacers F): Johnson (20.6 PPG, 11.2 RPG in last 10) vs. Siakam (leading Pacers scorer), a battle of athletic forwards.

Dyson Daniels (Hawks G) vs. Bennedict Mathurin (Pacers G): Daniels (questionable) provides defense; Mathurin (recently returned from thumb sprain) adds scoring punch.

Matchup to Watch: Hawks’ perimeter shooting (top-5 in attempts) vs. Pacers’ weak perimeter defense (allow 38% from three, 28th).

Series History

The Hawks hold a 113-100 all-time edge over the Pacers in regular season games

landofbasketball.com +1

. In the last 10 meetings, Atlanta is 7-3, including a 132-116 win on Jan. 26 where they shot 50% from the field. At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Hawks are 5-5 in the last 10. Games average 248 points in the last five, with the over hitting in four.

Betting Trends

Hawks 4-1 ATS in last 5; Pacers 2-3 ATS in last 5. Over has hit in 17 of last 20 head-to-heads. Atlanta 4-1 SU in last 5 vs. Indiana; Pacers 8-24 SU in East games. Hawks 16-11 ATS on road; Pacers 9-14 ATS at home

Game Odds

Atlanta Hawks                   – 1.5

Indiana Pacers                  232.5

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

Winnipeg Blue Bombers add linebacker in singler roster transaction

CFL Editor
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Winnipeg Blue Bombers add linebacker in singler roster transaction

WINNIPEG, MB., – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has signed American linebacker Mike Smith Jr.

Smith Jr. (5-11, 244; Baylor; born March 13, 2001, in Flora, MS.) signs with the Bombers after CFL and NFL experience, along with a two-year collegiate career at Baylor (2023) and Liberty (2022).

In 2024, Smith joined the BC Lions’ practice roster following his release from the NFL and later signed a futures contract for the 2025 season. He was released following the Lions’ 2025 training camp.

Smith signed with the Indianapolis Colts in August 2024, attended training camp, and appeared in one preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

In his lone season at Baylor, Smith started all five games he appeared in, recording 24 tackles (17 solo, seven assists) and one sack.

Smith began his NCAA career at Liberty, starting all 12 games. He posted 85 tackles (45 solo, 40 assists), one interception for 22 yards, and a half-sack.

Before the NCAA, Smith played three seasons at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (2019–21).

New York City FC Acquires $50,000 in GAM from St. Louis CITY SC

MLS Editor
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New York City FC Acquires $50,000 in GAM from St. Louis CITY SC

NEW YORK – Today New York City FC announce that it has acquired $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM) from St. Louis CITY SC in exchange for the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) for Dante Polvara. 

The Club will receive $50,000 GAM with up to an additional $100,000 in GAM if certain performance-based incentives are achieved. New York City FC will retain a percentage of a future transfer or trade.

Transaction: New York City FC acquired $50,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money (GAM) from St. Louis CITY SC in exchange for the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) for Dante Polvara.

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