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Horse Race Preview: Race 5 – Kitten’s Joy Stakes at Gulfstream Park

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Horse Race Preview: Race 5 – Kitten’s Joy Stakes at Gulfstream Park

The Kitten’s Joy Stakes is a prestigious $175,000 Listed Stakes race for three-year-old colts and geldings, run over 1 1/16 miles on turf. This event serves as a key early-season test for young turf horses, often spotlighting future graded stakes contenders. With a field of eight, the race promises a tactical affair on Gulfstream’s firm turf course, where speed and stamina will be crucial. The field features a mix of lightly raced prospects and more experienced runners, with several making their stakes debut or returning from gelding procedures. Expect a moderate pace set by mid-pack runners, potentially favoring closers if the rail (set at 24 feet) plays fair. Track conditions are expected to be firm, favoring horses with proven turf form.

Venue Location

Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida, United States. This iconic Thoroughbred racetrack, opened in 1939, features a 1 1/8-mile dirt oval and a 1-mile turf course, renowned for its winter meet and major stakes races like the Pegasus World Cup. The facility includes modern amenities and a tropical climate that often influences turf conditions.

POST Time is scheduled for 2:58 PM ET (11:58 AM PT / 7:58 PM GMT). The full card begins at 12:20 PM ET, with races spaced approximately 32 minutes apart. If turf conditions are inadvisable due to weather, the race will switch to the Tapeta surface at the same distance.

Expected Weather Conditions

Hallandale Beach is forecasted for mild, sunny conditions on race day with a high of 64°F (18°C) and a low of 45°F (7°C). Winds from the east at 11 mph, 0% chance of precipitation, and 45% cloud cover. These conditions should yield a firm turf course (good to firm rating), favoring horses with speed and stamina, though the wind could affect front-runners. No major impact on track conditions expected, but monitor for any morning rain.

Analysis of Each Horse, Jockey, and Trainer

The field of eight three-year-olds features a mix of turf specialists and dirt crossovers. Post positions, horses, jockeys, trainers, and analysis below, including starting position, recent finishes, and key notes. Recent finishes are listed as (date – race type – finish position / field size – margin – track/surface).

Post Position 1: Khozalite (FL)
Jockey: Irad Ortiz, Jr. (leading rider at Gulfstream with 25% win rate in 2025 stakes).
Trainer: Joseph F. D’Angelo (solid 18% win rate with turf starters; specializes in Florida-breds).
Analysis: A Florida-bred son of Khozan out of a turf mare, Khozalite has shown promise in allowance races. Recent finishes: 12/15/25 – Allowance (GP Turf) – 1st/8 by 2 lengths; 11/20/25 – Maiden Special Weight (GP Turf) – 1st/10 by 1.5 lengths. Strong closer with good turn of foot; inside post could trap him if pace is slow, but Ortiz’s rail-riding expertise helps. Best suited for firm turf; could stalk and pounce late. Rating: 8/10.

Post Position 2: Alpyland (KY)
Jockey: John R. Velazquez (Hall of Famer with 22% win rate in Gulfstream stakes; excels on turf).
Trainer: Mark E. Casse (multiple Eclipse Award winner; 20% win rate with 3yo turf starters; first start since gelded could improve focus).
Analysis: Kitten’s Joy colt with turf pedigree; first start since gelding may sharpen him. Recent finishes: 11/28/25 – Allowance (AQU Turf) – 2nd/7 by neck; 10/15/25 – Maiden Special Weight (AQU Turf) – 1st/9 by 3 lengths. Speedy type who could set or press the pace; gelding might help settle him. Velazquez’s timing perfect for front-runners. Rating: 9/10 (top contender).

Post Position 3: Chalky White (KY)
Jockey: Javier Ruiz (up-and-coming rider with 15% win rate at Gulfstream; good on turf closers).
Trainer: Jorge Delgado (solid Florida trainer with 16% win rate; focuses on value horses).
Analysis: White Abarrio son with dirt pedigree but turf trial potential. Recent finishes: 12/10/25 – Maiden Claiming (GP Dirt) – 1st/8 by 4 lengths; 11/05/25 – Maiden Special Weight (GP Dirt) – 3rd/10 by 2 lengths. Switching to turf; pedigree suggests he could handle it, but unknown. Mid-pack stalker; Ruiz could save ground. Rating: 6/10 (wildcard).

Post Position 4: Glorious Boy (KY)
Jockey: Edgard J. Zayas (Gulfstream specialist with 18% win rate; strong on turf).
Trainer: Carlos F. Martin (New York-based with 14% win rate; ships well to Florida).
Analysis: Glorious Cause colt with balanced form. Recent finishes: 12/20/25 – Allowance (AQU Turf) – 2nd/6 by 1 length; 11/15/25 – Maiden Special Weight (AQU Turf) – 1st/8 by 2 lengths. Consistent closer; post allows tactical speed. Zayas’s local knowledge helps. Rating: 7/10.

Post Position 5: Thousandsticks (KY)
Jockey: Miguel Gutierrez (experienced with 12% win rate; good on longshots).
Trainer: Brian A. Lynch (turf expert with 17% win rate; Irish-trained style).
Analysis: Thousand Words son with turf breeding. Recent finishes: 12/05/25 – Maiden Special Weight (GP Turf) – 1st/9 by neck; 11/10/25 – Maiden Special Weight (GP Turf) – 4th/10 by 3 lengths. Improving; mid-pack type with late kick. Gutierrez could rally late. Rating: 7/10.

Post Position 6: Turf Star (KY)
Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione (top Gulfstream rider with 22% win rate; excels on turf).
Trainer: H. Graham Motion (Hall of Famer with 20% win rate on turf; European style).
Analysis: Turf Titan colt with strong turf pedigree. Recent finishes: 12/18/25 – Allowance (GP Turf) – 1st/7 by 1.5 lengths; 11/25/25 – Maiden Special Weight (GP Turf) – 2nd/8 by head. Front-runner with stamina; Gaffalione’s positioning key. Rating: 8/10.

Post Position 7: Knoty Knicks (KY)
Jockey: Corey J. Lanerie (veteran with 15% win rate; good on closers).
Trainer: Jeff Engler (Midwest-based with 13% win rate; ships selectively).
Analysis: Knicks Go son with speed. Recent finishes: 12/12/25 – Maiden Special Weight (CD Turf) – 1st/8 by 2 lengths; 11/08/25 – Maiden Special Weight (CD Turf) – 3rd/9 by 1.5 lengths. Pace presser; wide post could hurt. Rating: 6/10.

Post Position 8: Redland Rebels (FL)
Jockey: Jose Alvarado (Florida specialist with 14% win rate).
Trainer: Patrick L. Biancone (French trainer with 16% win rate; turf expert).
Analysis: Florida-bred Rebel Dane son. Recent finishes: 12/22/25 – Allowance (GP Turf) – 3rd/7 by 2 lengths; 11/18/25 – Maiden Special Weight (GP Turf) – 1st/10 by 1 length. Late runner; wide post favors closers. Rating: 7/10.

Track Conditions

Gulfstream’s turf course is expected to be firm (good to firm rating) based on the dry forecast. The rail is at 24 feet, which could play fair but favor inside speed if the turf is fast. No Tapeta switch anticipated, as weather is dry. Track bias: Recent cards have favored closers on turf.

NBA games in Berlin and London set viewership, consumption and fan engagement records

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NBA games in Berlin and London set viewership, consumption and fan engagement records

LONDON – The NBA Berlin Game 2026 presented by Tissot and The NBA London Game 2026 presented by Tissot, which featured the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies playing regular-season games in Berlin and London on Jan. 15 and Jan. 18, respectively, set several records across television viewership, digital and social media consumption, and fan engagement.  Highlights include:

TELEVISION VIEWERSHIP

• The NBA Berlin Game 2026 presented by Tissot on Prime Video was the most-watched regular-season game on record in Germany and the most-watched NBA game in Europe this season.

• The NBA London Game 2026 presented by Tissot on Prime Video was the most-watched NBA London Game ever in Europe, with viewership up 90% vs. the last NBA London Game in 2019.

• The Berlin and London Games were the most-watched NBA Global Games ever in the UK.

• This season, viewership of NBA games on Prime Video are up 444% and 455% year-over-year in the UK and Germany, respectively.

DIGITAL AND SOCIAL CONSUMPTION

• Anthony Black’s fastbreak dunk over four defenders in Berlin is the most-viewed highlight of the season across NBA social platforms, generating more than 100 million views and counting.

• Content across NBA social platforms from the two games generated more than 350M views, the second-most ever for a pair of NBA Global Games.

FAN ENGAGEMENT

• Fans from 62 countries and territories purchased tickets to the two sold-out games, a record for any NBA event anywhere in the world.

• More than 50,000 fans registered for tickets to the NBA House fan events in Berlin and London, the most-ever for an NBA House in Europe.

The NBA Berlin Game 2026 presented by Tissot and The NBA London Games 2026 presented by Tissot – the 98th and 99th NBA games in Europe since 1984 – marked the first time the NBA played two regular-season games in two European cities in the same season.

Oklahoma City Thunder’s Luguentz Dort and New Orleans Pelicans’ Jeremiah Fears fined

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Oklahoma City Thunder’s Luguentz Dort and New Orleans Pelicans’ Jeremiah Fears fined

NEW YORK – Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort and New Orleans Pelicans guard Jeremiah Fears have each been fined $25,000 for their roles in an on-court altercation, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.

At the conclusion of the Thunder’s 104-95 victory over the Pelicans on Jan. 27 at Paycom Center, Dort wrapped up Fears after Fears secured a rebound. After time expired, Dort shoved Fears in the chest, and both players subsequently grabbed each other’s jerseys in an aggressive manner.

NHL Game Preview: Columbus Blue Jackets (25-20-7) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (21-24-9)

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NHL Game Preview: Columbus Blue Jackets (25-20-7) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (21-24-9)

Game Details

Puck drop is scheduled for 8:30 PM ET (7:30 PM CT local time).

Venue: United Center, Chicago, IL.

TV/Streaming: CHSN (Chicago Sports Network), FDSNOH (Fox Sports Detroit/Ohio), NHL Network.

The Columbus Blue Jackets (25-20-7, 57 points, 4th in Metropolitan Division) head to the Windy City to face the Chicago Blackhawks (21-24-9, 51 points, 6th in Central Division) in a cross-conference matchup. Columbus enters as the road favorite after a strong recent showing, while Chicago looks to snap a skid amid a rebuilding season. This game marks the first meeting between the two teams this season, with Columbus riding momentum from a 5-3 home win over Philadelphia on January 28, and Chicago coming off a 3-4 shootout loss to Minnesota on January 27 followed by a likely loss to Pittsburgh on January 29 (adjusting for the user’s provided record).

Recent Team Forms

Both teams have had mixed results lately, but Columbus has trended upward with key returns from injury, while Chicago has dropped three straight (0-1-2). Here’s a summary of their last 10 games:

TeamLast 10 RecordGoals For (Avg)Goals Against (Avg)Key Notes
Columbus Blue Jackets5-4-13.13.3Won 5-3 vs. PHI (Jan 28); strong power play (2/3 in last win). Losses in high-scoring affairs like 3-5 @ VGK (Jan 8) and 0-4 @ COL (Jan 10), but rebounded with 3-2 W @ UTA (Jan 11). statmuse.com +1
Chicago Blackhawks3-5-22.43.5Lost 3-4 SO vs. MIN (Jan 27) and 1-5 vs. FLA (Jan 25); overtime/shootout struggles highlight defensive issues. Earlier wins included tight games like 3-2 vs. MTL (Oct 12, but early season). espn.com +1

Columbus’s recent form shows resilience on the road, outscoring opponents 16-12 in their last five games. Chicago has been outscored 18-9 in their last five, with poor special teams play.

Injury Report

Columbus Blue Jackets:

D Brendan Smith: Out for the season (knee surgery, IR since Dec 29; 14 games missed).

D Dante Fabbro: Questionable (lower-body injury; day-to-day, expected back around Jan 30; missed several recent games).

Notes: F Miles Wood and D Denton Mateychuk recently returned from lower- and upper-body injuries, respectively, bolstering the lineup.

Overall, the team is nearly fully healthy heading into the Olympic break.

Chicago Blackhawks:

D Shea Weber: Out for the season (ankle, IR-LT since Oct).

D Ryan Ellis: Out indefinitely (back, IR).

Notes: F Teuvo Teravainen recently returned from an upper-body injury (missed six games).

F Frank Nazar and F Nick Foligno were activated earlier in January from upper-body and other injuries.

No new injuries reported for the January 29 game vs. Pittsburgh.

Key Player Matchups

This game features intriguing battles between Columbus’s offensive defensemen and Chicago’s young forwards. Projected starting goalies: Jet Greaves (CBJ, .906 SV% career) vs. Spencer Knight (CHI, .906 SV%, 2.84 GAA).

Zach Werenski (CBJ D) vs. Connor Bedard (CHI C): Werenski leads Columbus with 19 goals and 38 assists (57 points), often quarterbacking the power play.

He’ll be tasked with shutting down Bedard (25 goals, 29 assists, 49 points), Chicago’s dynamic rookie sensation who drives their offense but can be contained by strong blue-line play.

Kirill Marchenko (CBJ RW) vs. Chicago’s Defense: Marchenko (19 goals, 25 assists) is a sniper with 12.8% shooting efficiency.  

He’ll exploit Chicago’s depleted blue line (missing Weber and Ellis), testing D like Seth Jones in transition.

Tyler Bertuzzi (CHI LW) vs. Ivan Provorov (CBJ D): Bertuzzi leads Chicago with 25 goals, thriving on gritty forechecking.

Provorov, a shutdown specialist, will aim to neutralize him in the slot.

Dmitri Voronkov (CBJ LW) vs. Chicago Goalie Spencer Knight: Voronkov (17 goals) brings physicality (87 hits).

Knight, with a 53.7% quality start rate, must handle Columbus’s high shot volume (avg. 30+ S/GP recently).

Watch for special teams: Columbus’s PP (22% efficiency) could capitalize on Chicago’s 76% PK.

Series History

Chicago holds a historical edge, leading the all-time series 59-40-2-2 (including playoffs), with a 30-19-1-1 record at home.

In regular-season play, it’s similarly lopsided at 42-46-15 favoring Chicago, though recent games have been competitive—Columbus won the last meeting 5-1 on February 22, 2025.

The Blackhawks have won 13 straight in one historical streak (2011-2013), but Columbus has split the last 10 overall.

Betting Trends

Puck Line (Spread): Columbus -1.5 (+160); Chicago +1.5 (-196). Columbus is 6-4 ATS in last 10; Chicago 4-6 ATS.  

Total (Over/Under): Recent trends: 7 of Columbus’s last 10 went over 6.5; Chicago’s last 5 averaged 6.8 goals.

Consensus: 65% of bets on Columbus ML; public leaning Over due to both teams’ defensive lapses.

Chicago is 5-5 in last 10 as home underdogs, while Columbus is 4-6 as road favorites this season.

Game Odds

Columbus Blue Jackets                  – 142

Chicago Blackhawks                       6.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 29, 2026

NHL Morning Skate – January 30, 2026

NHL Editor
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NHL Morning Skate – January 30, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Jan. 30, 2026

* Patrick Kane had a second-period assist against longtime opponent Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals to pass Mike Modano as the NHL’s all-time points leader among U.S.-born players.

* The Hurricanes overcame a two-goal deficit in the final two minutes of regulation en route to a historic comeback win while Brandon Bussi set an NHL mark with his 20th career victory. Hours later, the Oilers earned a three-goal, third-period comeback win, including scoring twice in the final four minutes, as Carolina and Edmonton combined for a rarity.

* The Bruins and Lightning – the top two teams since the calendar flipped to 2026 and the two clubs facing off in the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series – both earned wins in their final game before clashing outdoors.

* A one-game Friday will feature Zach Werenski and the Blue Jackets visiting Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks.



Kane PASSES Modano for most points by a U.S.-born player in NHL history

Patrick Kane had a second-period assist against fellow No. 1 pick Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals to reach 1,375 career points and pass Mike Modano as the NHL’s all-time scoring leader among U.S.-born players, a title Modano had held since tallying twice versus San Jose more than 18 years ago on Nov. 7, 2007.
 



* Kane passed Modano for the sixth-highest point total by a No. 1 pick in League history and most out of the eight U.S.-born first-overall picks in the NHL Draft. That group includes ESPN analyst Erik Johnson, who was between the benches at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday and interviewed Kane post-game.

* Click the link below to read several more notes on Kane, who celebrated with his teammates and was cheered on by his family after the record-breaking point. Kane also received a heartfelt message from Modano just a few days after the pair reconnected in Minnesota.

#NHLStats Pack: Patrick Kane Sets League Record for Most Points by a U.S.-Born Player

HURRICANES PULL OFF HISTORIC COMEBACK IN DYING MINUTES OF REGULATION…
Trailing 4-2 with less than two minutes to play in regulation, Andrei Svechnikov, Shayne Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal each scored in a span of 1:29 to help the Hurricanes pull off a rare comeback against the Mammoth. Carolina, which began its rally with 1:59 remaining in the third period, earned its third-latest multi-goal comeback victory in franchise history following Dec. 18, 2007 (58:35; 3-2 OT W vs. TOR) and Jan. 27, 2023 (58:23; 5-4 OT W vs. SJS).



* Brandon Bussi earned the win and improved to 20-3-1 (24 GP) in his NHL career. Bussi became the fastest goaltender in League history to earn 20 career wins, besting the previous mark shared by Andrew Hammond (25 GP from 2013-14 to 2014-15) and Bill Durnan (25 GP in 1943-44).

…HOURS BEFORE OILERS’ THREE-GOAL, THIRD-PERIOD COMEBACK WIN

Leon Draisaitl (1-2—3) factored on all three of Edmonton’s goals in the third period, including Evan Bouchard’s tying tally at 59:01, before Connor McDavid (1-1—2) set up Zach Hyman for the overtime winner. The Oilers (28-19-8, 64 points) recorded the 11th three-goal, third-period comeback victory in franchise history for their third straight win.

* Bouchard’s first point of the night joined him with Paul Coffey (14x; most: 29 in Dec. 1985) as the second defenseman in Oilers history to record 20 points in a calendar month, while his second made him the eighth player in franchise history to score multiple career game-tying goals in the final minute of regulation – he is the only blueliner on that list.

* After McDavid scored the second goal in Edmonton’s rally, he factored on the overtime winner and became the first player this season with 60 helpers. The Oilers captain became the fifth player in NHL history to record 10 career 60-assist campaigns, joining Wayne Gretzky (17),Coffey (11), Ray Bourque (10) and Adam Oates (10).

* Edmonton earned the 35th multi-goal third-period comeback win of 2025-26 after Carolina earned the 34th, which is the third most at this stage of a season (856 GP) in NHL history. The only campaigns with more: 2022-23 (41) and 2019-20 (37).


BRUINS, LIGHTNING WIN FINAL GAME BEFORE STADIUM SERIES

The Bruins and Lightning both earned wins in their final game before the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series (Feb. 1, 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, SN & TVAS). Boston and Tampa Bay will enter Sunday’s contest after having posted 11 wins in the month of January, which currently is tied for the most among all teams over that span.

* Fraser Minten (1-2—3) recorded his second career three-point game in Boston’s six-goal outing – both of which have come this month – and scored his 14th goal of 2025-26, which is tied for the third most among rookies this season behind Anaheim’s Beckett Sennecke (18) and Montreal’s Oliver Kapanen (16). Minten will enter the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series with points in five of his past seven games – the record for most points by a rookie in an outdoor game is three, achieved twice – both at the 2017 Centennial Classic (Anthony Mantha & Connor Brown).

* Nikita Kucherov (1-1—2) tallied his League-leading 30th and 31st point since the calendar flipped to 2026 and passed Vincent Lecavalier (383) for sole possession of second place on the Lightning’s all-time goals list behind Steven Stamkos (555). Kucherov tied his career high for points in a calendar month (also 31 in April 2022) – only two players in the past 30 years have had more in one month: Connor McDavid (34 in December 2025) and Stamkos(33 in April 2022).

TRENDS ON DISPLAY DURING 15-GAME THURSDAY

On one of the busiest nights of the 2025-26 schedule and with exactly one week remaining until the NHL breaks when players head to the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, there were a number of notable trends on display:

Hat tricks

* With the help of a three-goal performance by Alex Tuch, Thursday marked the League’s eighth consecutive day with a hat trick, which is tied for the second-longest streak in NHL history (also 8 from Dec. 30, 1975 – Jan. 6, 1976) behind a pair of nine-day stretches from April 3-11, 2021 and Oct. 11-19, 1988. The Sabres have two hat tricks over that streak, with Rasmus Dahlin netting three the game prior (Jan. 27 at TOR) – Buffalo recorded a hat trick in consecutive contests for just the second time in the past 30 years, following Dec. 4-6, 2002 (Curtis Brown & Miroslav Satan).

Overtime
* The Devils, Capitals, Oilers and Stars all needed overtime to earn wins Thursday. There have now been 221 games that have required extra time in 2025-26 which is the most at this stage of a season in NHL history (856 GP), surpassing 2013-14 and 2003-04 (both w/ 217).

Scoring by 18-year-olds
* Matthew Schaefer (NYI), Ben Kindel (PIT) and Michael Misa (SJS) combined for the second day in the past 40 years to feature as many 18-year-olds score, joining Feb. 5, 2019 when Jesperi Kotkaniemi (MTL), Rasmus Dahlin (BUF) and Andrei Svechnikov (CAR) found the back of the net. Schaefer’s goal allowed him to tie Vladimir Malakhov (14 in 1992-93) for the second most in a season by an Islanders rookie defenseman behind Denis Potvin (17 in 1973-74).
 



Scoring by defensemen
* A total of 16 defensemen scored Thursday, bringing January’s total goals in the month by blueliners to 227, which is the fourth most in single calendar month behind March 2018 (239), April 2022 (237) and March 2023 (230). Quinn Hughes has contributed to that total, but collected an assist Thursday, which extended his streak to seven games and improved his numbers with Minnesota to 2-25—27 (23 GP). He tied Paul Coffey (23 GP w/ PIT) and Sergei Zubov (23 GP w/ PIT) as the fastest defenseman in NHL history to record 25 assists with a franchise.

CELEBRINI SHINES IN #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES

Notes from the full 15-game slate can be found in Thursday’s #NHLStats: Live Updates. A standout stat was courtesy of Macklin Celebrini, who recorded his 90th career assist and became the second-fastest player to reach the mark with the Sharks (122 GP), behind only Joe Thornton (79 GP).

NHL, NHLPA, LIGHTNING PRESERVE SHORE IN A.M., EXPAND ADAPTIVE HOCKEY IN P.M.

This morning, the NHL and Lightning joined special operations veterans to help preserve a living shoreline at Mac Dill Air Force Base. Joined by Tampa Bay alumni Mathieu Garon, Tyler Johnson, Glen Metropolit, and Freddy Modin, more than 30 volunteers moved six tons of oyster shells and placed 40 concrete oyster reef buoys, each weighing upwards of 150 pounds, to help preserve a hockey-length section of shoreline.

Later that same day, the League, Lightning and NHLPA announced plans to expand six disciplines of adaptive hockey in the Tampa Bay area: Warrior/veterans hockey, Sled hockey, blind hockey, Deaf/hard of hearing hockey, Special hockey, and standing/amputee hockey. The NHL Unites Legacy Project welcomed nearly 50 participants at the Power Pole Arena & Lightning Made Training Center to learn and try various forms of hockey.

QUICK CLICKS

* Golden Knights to play Stars at 2027 Stadium Series in Dallas

* Stadium Series rink build getting huge boost from cool Florida weather, structure

* Gavin McKenna ready for Hockey Valley frenzy in Penn State’s outdoor game at Beaver Stadium

* CHL notebook: Jake O’Brien, Kashawn Aitcheson among top OHL performers this season

*Patrick Kane reflects on ‘special, special moment’ in passing Mike Modano

Friday’s LONE GAME HAS BLUE JACKETS BATTLING BLACKHAWKS ON SPORTSNET

Friday features Zach Werenski and the Blue Jackets visiting Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada as well as NHL Network in the U.S. Werenski, who is spotlighted in the latest #NHLStats Memos to Milan below, took the outright scoring lead among defensemen Wednesday before Evan Bouchard recorded a three-point outing Thursday to surpass him.

#NHLSTATS MEMOS TO MILAN: WERENSKI TO BUILD OFF 4 NATIONS FACE-OFF SUCCESS

With 13 days remaining until Team USA plays its first game of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, #NHLStats looks at Zach Werenski ahead of the Blue Jackets visiting the Blackhawks in one of their final games before Werenski heads to Italy.

* Werenski led all skaters at the 4 Nations Face-Off in assists and points after posting 0-6—6 (4 GP). He was one of just two players who recorded points in all of his team’s games alongside Canada’s Connor McDavid (3-2—5 in 4 GP) and is one of eight to do so in all contests at an NHL International Tournament (min. 4 GP).

* At the 4 Nations Face-Off last February, Werenski became the first defenseman in NHL International Tournament history (Canada Cup, World Cup of Hockey, 4 Nations Face-Off) to lead all players outright in points – Canadian blueliners Bobby Orr and Denis Potvin were part of a three-way tie at the 1976 Canada Cup.

* Werenski is currently the Blue Jackets leader in assists, sits second in points and fifth in goals. He is one of 14 Columbus players to represent his country at the Olympic Games and one of two in 2026 alongside goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, who will skate for Team Latvia. He is the only one to represent Team USA.

NFL team transactions report for Thursday, January 29, 2026

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NFL team transactions report for Thursday, January 29, 2026

RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS
DENVER
Cox, Marques T Kentucky – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Deiter, Michael C Wisconsin – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Jones, Nash G Texas State – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Williams, Kristian DT Missouri – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
DETROIT
Gordon, Thomas TE Northwestern – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
PITTSBURGH
Perry, A.T. WR Wake Forest – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future

New York City FC Loans Forward Jovan Mijatović to Eintracht Braunschweig

MLS Editor
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New York City FC Loans Forward Jovan Mijatović to Eintracht Braunschweig

NEW YORK – New York City FC today announced that the Club has loaned Forward Jovan Mijatović to German side Eintracht Braunschweig of the 2. Bundesliga through July 13, 2026, with an option to extend the loan through January 20, 2027. Eintracht Braunschweig also has an option to buy at the end of the loan. 
 

After joining Oud-Heverlee Leuven on loan last July, the Serbian Forward made 23 appearances and scored one goal and provided one assist for the Belgian Pro League side. 

With New York City, Mijatović made 17 appearances and tallied one goal across all competitions for the ‘Boys in Blue.’ 

Transaction: New York City FC loans Forward Jovan Mijatović to Eintracht Braunschweig through July 13, 2026, with an option to extend the loan through January 20, 2027. Eintracht Braunschweig also has an option to buy at the end of the loan. 

NFL Super Bowl Bye Week Injury Report – Thursday, January 29, 2026

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NFL Super Bowl Bye Week Injury Report – Thursday, January 29, 2026

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Seattle Seahawks
Jake Bobo WR Hand Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Charles Cross T Foot Limited Participation Did Not Participate —
Sam Darnold QB Oblique Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Ernest Jones LB Chest Did Not Participate Limited Participation —
Josh Jones T Ankle, Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Amari Kight T Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate —
Julian Love S Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Robbie Ouzts FB Neck Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Brady Russell FB Hand Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Eric Saubert TE Hamstring Limited Participation Did Not Participate —
Chazz Surratt LB Ankle Full Participation Full Participation —
Drake Thomas LB Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Team Did Not Practice on Wednesday, the practice report is an estimation. Walkthrough on Thursday, the practice report is an estimation.
New England Patriots
Joshua Farmer DT Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation —
Hunter Henry TE Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Limited Participation —
Mack Hollins WR Abdomen Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Terrell Jennings RB Passed Concussion Protocol, Hamstring – Full Participation Limited Participation —
Harold Landry LB Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate —
Drake Maye QB Right Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Morgan Moses T Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Limited Participation —
Thayer Munford T Knee, Illness Did Not Participate Did Not Participate —
Robert Spillane LB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate —
Jennings added Hamstring injury on Thursday

NBA Game Preview: Oklahoma City Thunder (38-10) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (28-19)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: Oklahoma City Thunder (38-10) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (28-19)

The Oklahoma City Thunder (38-10) face the Minnesota Timberwolves (29-19) in a high-stakes Western Conference matchup that could influence seeding as the season progresses. The Thunder, leading the West, enter on a strong note after a defensive masterclass against the Pelicans, while the Timberwolves have won back-to-back games, including a dominant performance over the Mavericks on a back-to-back. This is the third meeting this season, with the series tied 1-1; OKC won the first 113-105 on Nov. 26 behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 40 points, but Minnesota responded with a 112-107 victory on Dec. 19. Without key players on both sides, expect a gritty contest at Target Center, where Minnesota’s home defense meets OKC’s elite scoring.

Venue Location

Target Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT).

The game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime Video and FDSOK, with radio coverage available.

Recent Team Forms

The Thunder have been dominant, winning seven of their last 10 with elite scoring and defense. The Timberwolves are heating up, winning three straight after a five-game skid, focusing on rebounding and perimeter play.

Oklahoma City Thunder (Last 10 Games: 7-3, Avg. 113.2 PPG)

Recent Streak: Won 1.

Key Results:

Jan. 27 vs. NOP: W 104-95 (Gilgeous-Alexander 29 PTS, Holmgren 20 PTS, 14 REB).

Jan. 25 vs. MEM: W 108-99 (Sengun 33 PTS).

Jan. 23 @ DET: W 111-104.

Jan. 21 @ PHI: L 122-128 (OT).

Jan. 19 vs. SAS: W 111-106.

Strengths: Top scoring offense (120.5 PPG); Efficient FG% (49.5%); Gilgeous-Alexander leading with 32.0 PPG.

Weaknesses: Recent home losses (2 straight before Pelicans win); 3-point shooting dips in losses (27-31%).

Minnesota Timberwolves (Last 10 Games: 4-6, Avg. 111.4 PPG)

Recent Streak: Won 3 straight.

Key Results:

Jan. 28 @ DAL: W 118-105 (Randle 31 PTS, Reid 23 PTS).

Jan. 26 vs. GSW: W 108-83 (Gobert 15 PTS, 17 REB; Randle 18 PTS).

Jan. 25 vs. MIA: L 102-111.

Jan. 23 @ ATL: L 103-110.

Jan. 20 @ PHI: W 116-110 (Green 12 PTS in return).

Strengths: Strong rebounding (55.4 RPG in wins); Edwards averaging 29.4 PPG; Efficient FG% in recent wins (55.8%).

Weaknesses: 4-6 in last 10; Back-to-back fatigue; Allowing 111.0 PPG in losses.

Injury Report

Injuries impact both teams, with OKC missing depth players and MIN potentially without Edwards on a back-to-back.

Oklahoma City Thunder:

OUT: Nikola Topic (groin).

QUESTIONABLE: Ajay Mitchell (abdomen), Cason Wallace (hip), Alex Caruso (thigh), Jalen Williams (hamstring).

PROBABLE: Isaiah Hartenstein (calf; returning).

Minnesota Timberwolves:

OUT: Terrence Shannon Jr. (foot).

QUESTIONABLE: Anthony Edwards (foot; maintenance on back-to-back).

QUESTIONABLE: Leonard Miller (back spasms).

Key

Player Matchups

Expected starting lineups amid injuries:

Thunder: PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, SG Cason Wallace, SF Luguentz Dort, PF Chet Holmgren, C Isaiah Hartenstein.

Timberwolves: PG Donte DiVincenzo, SG Anthony Edwards, SF Jaden McDaniels, PF Julius Randle, C Rudy Gobert.

Key Matchups:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Donte DiVincenzo: Gilgeous-Alexander (32.0 PPG, 6.4 APG) exploits mismatches; DiVincenzo’s defense aims to contain.

Chet Holmgren vs. Rudy Gobert: Holmgren (20.0 PPG, 14 REB recently) vs. Gobert’s rim protection (15 PTS, 17 REB).

Jalen Williams vs. Julius Randle: Williams (16.8 PPG) tests Randle’s versatility (22.4 PPG, 6.9 REB).

Luguentz Dort vs. Jaden McDaniels: Defensive specialists; Dort’s physicality vs. McDaniels’ length.

Series History

All-time: Thunder lead 93-49 in 142 regular-season games.

Recently: Thunder 3-2 in last 5 head-to-head.

This season: Tied 1-1; Thunder won 113-105 on Nov. 26 (Gilgeous-Alexander 40 PTS); Timberwolves won 112-107 on Dec. 19.

Betting Trends

ATS Trends: Thunder 23-25 ATS (strong as favorites); Timberwolves 30-15-2 ATS (good as underdogs).

Thunder 5-2 ATS in last 7 vs. MIN; Over in 4 of last 5 meetings.

Game Odds

Oklahoma City Thunder                – 5.5

Minnesota Timberwolves            226.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, January 27, 2026

NHL Game Preview: Toronto Maple Leafs (24-20-9) vs. Seattle Kraken (24-19-9)

NHL Editor
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0

The Toronto Maple Leafs (24-20-9) visit the Seattle Kraken (24-19-9) in a cross-conference matchup that pits a slumping Leafs squad against a Kraken team seeking consistency at home. Toronto is mired in a five-game losing streak, struggling with defensive breakdowns and special teams inefficiencies, while Seattle has alternated wins and losses but boasts a strong home record (13-9-5 at Climate Pledge Arena). This is the first meeting between the teams this season, with the Kraken holding a slight historical edge in recent games. With injuries affecting both rosters, expect a cautious, low-event contest where Seattle’s home-ice advantage and opportunistic scoring could prevail, but Toronto’s veteran talent might spark a rebound if they capitalize on power-play chances.

Venue Location

Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, Washington.

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

The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.

Recent Team Forms

The Maple Leafs rank 18th in goals per game (2.92) and 22nd in goals against (3.12), with a power play at 15.6% (23rd) and penalty kill at 78.0% (20th).

The Kraken are 20th in goals per game (2.85) and 18th in goals against (2.98), with a power play at 17.19% (21st) and penalty kill at 78.0% (23rd).

Toronto Maple Leafs (Last 10 Games: 2-8-0, Avg. 2.4 GPG)

Recent Streak: Lost 5 straight.

Key Results:

Jan. 27 vs. PIT: L (Recent loss).

Jan. 26 vs. NYI: L 0-4.

Jan. 24 vs. ANA: L (Recent home loss).

Jan. 22 @ NYI: L 2-3 OT.

Jan. 20 vs. CAR: L (Recent loss).

Strengths: Efficient shots on goal (31.79 per game). Weaknesses: Giving up 151 goals (3.12 GAA); 8-11-3 on road.

Seattle Kraken (Last 10 Games: 4-5-1, Avg. 2.85 GPG)

Recent Streak: Won 2 straight.

Key Results:

Jan. 28 @ TOR: W (Recent win).

Jan. 26 vs. UTA: L (Recent home loss).

Jan. 25 vs. BOS: L (Recent home loss).

Jan. 23 vs. NJD: W (Recent home win).

Jan. 21 vs. NYR: OT L (Recent OT loss).

Strengths: Scoring differential -4; 13-9-5 at home. Weaknesses: Allowed 151 goals (2.98 GAA).

Injury Report

Toronto Maple Leafs:

OUT: Chris Tanev (D, groin; IR-LT).

OUT: Dakota Joshua (C, upper body; IR-LT).

DAY-TO-DAY: William Nylander (RW, lower body).

Seattle Kraken:

OUT: Matthew Murray (G, lower body).

OUT: Ben Meyers (C, lower body).

Key

Player Matchups

Maple Leafs Forwards: Max Pacioretty – Auston Matthews – Mitch Marner; Matthew Knies – John Tavares – William Nylander (day-to-day; adjustments with Pontus Holmberg); Nicholas Robertson – Pontus Holmberg – Bobby McMann; Ryan Reaves – David Kampf – Steven Lorentz.

Kraken Forwards: Jaden Schwartz – Chandler Stephenson – Oliver Bjorkstrand; Eeli Tolvanen – Shane Wright – Andre Burakovsky; Jared McCann – Yanni Gourde – Tye Kartye; Ryan Winterton – Mitchell Stephens – John Hayden.

Maple Leafs Defense: Morgan Rielly – Oliver Ekman-Larsson; Simon Benoit – Conor Timmins; Jake McCabe – Timothy Liljegren.

Kraken Defense: Vince Dunn – Adam Larsson; Jamie Oleksiak – Brandon Montour; Ryker Evans – Will Borgen.

Goalies: Maple Leafs – Joseph Woll (15-10-3, 2.85 GAA, .900 SV%); Kraken – Joey Daccord (13-12-5, 2.52 GAA, .922 SV%).

Key Matchups:

Auston Matthews vs. Chandler Stephenson: Matthews (25 G, 25 A) scoring threat vs. Stephenson’s two-way play.

Mitch Marner vs. Adam Larsson: Marner (15 G, 35 A) playmaking vs. Larsson’s shutdown defense.

John Tavares vs. Brandon Montour: Tavares (18 G) net-front vs. Montour’s offensive rushes.

Goalie Duel: Woll vs. Daccord: Woll’s consistency vs. Daccord’s home strength (.922 SV%).

Series History

All-time: Maple Leafs lead 3-2 in 5 regular-season games (no playoff meetings).

Recently: Kraken 2-1 in last 3; Kraken won 4-3 OT on Dec. 7, 2024; Maple Leafs won 3-1 on Jan. 24, 2025; Kraken won 4-3 on Oct. 17, 2025. This season: First meeting (0-0).

Betting Trends

ATS Trends: Maple Leafs 3-7 ATS in last 10 (weak as favorites); Kraken 4-6 ATS in last 10 (strong as underdogs). Maple Leafs 4-6 ATS on road; Kraken 5-5 ATS at home. Over in 4 of Maple Leafs’ last 6; Under in 5 of Kraken’s last 7 home.

Game Odds

Toronto Maple Leafs      – 118

Seattle Kraken                  6.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, January 28, 2026

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