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NBA Game Preview: Milwaukee Bucks (17-24) vs. Atlanta Hawks (20-24)

NBA Editor
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NBA Game Preview: Milwaukee Bucks (17-24) vs. Atlanta Hawks (20-24)

The Milwaukee Bucks (17-24) visit the Atlanta Hawks (20-24) in an Eastern Conference tilt between two teams looking to snap three-game losing streaks. The Bucks, 11th in the East, have been plagued by injuries and poor form, ranking bottom-10 in defensive rating (115.8 points allowed per game). The Hawks, 10th in the East, have trended well at home but struggled lately, allowing an average of 130 points in their last three losses. This matchup at State Farm Arena features Giannis Antetokounmpo facing a depleted Hawks frontcourt, but Atlanta’s depth and home edge could prevail. Expect a low-scoring affair with the Hawks pulling out a narrow win.

Venue Location

State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia. This 16,888-seat venue is known for its passionate crowds and has been the Hawks’ home since 1999, providing a strong advantage with a 7-12 home record this season.

Tipoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT, 1:00 p.m. local time in Atlanta). The game will be broadcast on Peacock nationally, with radio coverage on 97.3 The Game (Bucks) and 92.9 The Game (Hawks).

Recent Team Forms

The Bucks have lost three straight, going 3-7 in their last 10 with a -7.2 point differential, struggling defensively (allowing 120+ in losses). The Hawks are also on a three-game skid, 4-6 in their last 10 with a -3.8 differential, but strong at home.

Here’s a breakdown of each team’s last 10 games:

DateOpponentResult (Bucks)Score
Jan 15@ SAL101-119
Jan 13vs MINL106-139
Jan 11@ DENL104-108
Jan 9@ LALW105-101
Jan 7@ GSWL113-120
Jan 5vs SACL133-135
Jan 3vs ATLL124-145
Jan 1vs CHAW122-121
Dec 30@ SACW115-98
Dec 28vs DENL105-121

Overall: 3-7 in last 10 (-72 point differential).

DateOpponentResult (Hawks)Score
Jan 17vs BOSL106-132
Jan 15@ PORL101-117
Jan 14vs PHIW116-115
Jan 12vs PHIL102-115
Jan 9@ BOSL117-125
Jan 7@ CHAW97-96
Jan 5vs ATL? Error, vs ATL self; vs SACW118-100

Injury Report

Milwaukee Bucks:

Taurean Prince (SF): Out (Neck – Surgery).

Alex Antetokounmpo (G): Out (G League – Two-Way).

Atlanta Hawks:

Dyson Daniels (G): Questionable (Injury/Illness – Right Ankle; Sprain).

N’Faly Dante (C): Out (Injury/Illness – Right Knee; Torn ACL).

Zaccharie Risacher (F): Out (Injury/Illness – Left Knee; Bone Contusion).

Kristaps Porzingis (C): Out (Injury/Illness – Left Achilles; Tendinitis).

Caleb Houstan (G): Questionable (G League – Two-Way).

Christian Koloko (C): Questionable (G League – Two-Way).

Asa Newell (F): Questionable (G League – On Assignment).

Nikola Djurisic (G): Questionable (G League – On Assignment).

RayJ Dennis (G): Questionable (G League – Two-Way).

Key

Player Matchups

Injuries shift dynamics, with Atlanta missing key bigs and Milwaukee without Prince’s spacing.

Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL F) vs. Jalen Johnson (ATL F): Antetokounmpo (28.8 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 5.5 APG) is Milwaukee’s engine; Johnson (22.8 PTS, 57% 2P%, 35% 3P%) provides versatile defense.

Damian Lillard (MIL G) vs. Trae Young (ATL G): Lillard (22.8 PPG, 5.5 APG) exploits mismatches; Young (26.5 PPG, 10.2 APG) counters with playmaking.

Brook Lopez (MIL C) vs. Clint Capela (ATL C): Lopez (12.5 PPG, 5.5 RPG) anchors rim protection; Capela (11.5 PPG, 10.2 RPG) dominates boards.

Gary Trent Jr. (MIL G) vs. Dyson Daniels (ATL G): Trent (15.2 PPG) brings shooting; Daniels (Q, ankle) provides defense if available.

Other keys: Atlanta’s steals (9.48 per game) vs. Milwaukee’s turnovers. Bucks’ rebounding could exploit Hawks’ missing Porzingis and Risacher.

Series History

The Bucks lead the all-time series 121-120 (241 games). Milwaukee has won 6 of the last 10, but Atlanta won the most recent on March 30, 2025 (145-124). The Hawks are 1-1 at home in the last 2 vs. Bucks. Unders have hit in 5 of the last 7, averaging 218 points.

Betting Trends

Spread: Hawks 6-12 ATS as favorites; Bucks 2-1 ATS in last 3 as underdogs.

Over/Under: Under is 2-5 in Hawks’ last 7, 4-6 in Bucks’ last 10; series unders in 5/7.

Other Trends: Hawks 6-12 as favorites by 2.5 or more; Bucks 4-17 SU as underdogs. Atlanta games under in 4/5 home; Milwaukee 2-8 ATS on road.

Game Odds

Milwaukee Bucks            231.5

Atlanta Hawks                   – 2.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, January 18, 2026

Winnipeg Blue Bombers re-sign all-star guard Pat Neufeld

CFL Editor
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Winnipeg Blue Bombers re-sign all-star guard Pat Neufeld

WINNIPEG, MB., – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a one-year extension with veteran right guard Pat Neufeld.

Neufeld was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Neufeld (6-6, 300, University of Saskatchewan; born: December 26, 1988, in Regina, Sask.) returns in 2026 for his 12th season with the Blue Bombers and 15th in the Canadian Football League, including his days with the Saskatchewan Roughriders (2011-13).

A three-time CFL All-Star (2021-23), Neufeld started all 18 regular season games and the Eastern Semi-Final at right guard last year. He played a key role in an offence which helped running back Brady Oliveira post a fourth consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season while the attack finished second in the CFL in rushing yards per game at 124.1.

Originally drafted by the Roughriders in 2010, Neufeld was acquired by Winnipeg in a trade in 2013 and has become a fixture along the offensive line. He has played in 186 CFL games, including 149 with the Blue Bombers, and now calls Winnipeg home. 

Neufeld has also been active in the community and was honoured in 2023 as the recipient of the Ed Kotowich ‘Good Guy Award’ for ‘excellent football ability, a leader in the locker room and outstanding effort in the community’ and in 2021 was the winner of the club’s Cal Murphy ‘Heart of a Legend Award’ presented annually to the player who has shown ‘outstanding sportsmanship and dedication to the Canadian Football League and the community.’

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign kicker Sergio Castillo, punter Jamieson Sheahan to contract extensions

CFL Editor
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Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign kicker Sergio Castillo, punter Jamieson Sheahan to contract extensions

WINNIPEG, MB., – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has re-signed veteran kicker Sergio Castillo (two years) and punter Jamieson Sheahan (one year). Both players were scheduled to become a free agents in February.

Castillo (5-9, 202; West Texas A&M; born: November 1, 1990, in La Joya, TX) returns to the club in 2026 after serving as the club’s placekicker for the past three seasons (2023-25) as well as stints in 2015 and 2021.

Castillo has now appeared in 61 games over his three periods with the Blue Bombers and is coming off a 2025 season in which he connected on 85.7 percent of his field goal attempts (48-of-56) and 93 percent of his converts (40-of-43).

His 48 made field goals last season ranked as fourth most in a season in franchise history behind Justin Medlock (60 in 2016 and 56 in 2017) and his own mark of 51 in 2024.

He also broke his own record for longest field goal in team history with a 63-yarder in a loss in Calgary in August, a kick that tied the mark for the longest in Canadian Football League history.

One of the most popular Blue Bombers in the locker room and in the community, Castillo also moved into sixth place in all-time franchise scoring in 2025. His 184 points last season now gives him 639 as a Blue Bomber.

He was a CFL All-Star in 2019 and the Blue Bombers Most Outstanding Special Teams player in 2023 and 2024.

Castillo has appeared in 113 CFL games over nine seasons, including his time with Ottawa (2016), Hamilton (2017), B.C. (2019) and Edmonton (2022).

Sheahan (5-11, 197, University of California; born: May 17, 1997, in Bendigo, Australia) returns in 2026 for his fourth season in the Canadian Football League and fourth with the Blue Bombers. He has been the club’s punter in every game over that span. In addition, working with long-snapper Ian Leroux, Sheahan is the holder on field goals and converts for placekicker Sergio Castillo.

Sheahan finished 2025 with a punting average of 47.8 yards on 94 punts and a net (minus the opponent’s return) of 38.4 yards. His 47.8-yard average was the second highest in Blue Bombers history to Jon Ryan’s 50.6 average in 2005. In the battle for field position, he kicked just two singles in 2025 while placing nine punts inside the opponent’s 10-yard line.

Sheahan was selected eighth overall by the Blue Bombers in the CFL’s 2023 Global Draft and earned the punting chores in training camp in a season in which he was named the club’s Most Outstanding Rookie Player.

A product of Bendigo, Australia, Sheahan began playing Aussie rules football with the Essendon Bombers in the Australian Football League. He earned a scholarship to the University of California through ProKick Australia and has two degrees, including a master’s of education.

Nashville Predators’ Steven Stamkos Fined for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

NHL Editor
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Nashville Predators’ Steven Stamkos Fined for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

NEW YORK – Nashville Predators forward Steven Stamkos has been fined $2,500 for unsportsmanlike conduct against Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Jeremy Lauzon during NHL Game No. 765 in Las Vegas on Saturday, Jan. 17, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today.

The incident occurred at 3:21 of the second period.

The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

NHL Morning Skate – January 19, 2026

NHL Editor
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NHL Morning Skate – January 19, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Jan. 19, 2026

* Ryan Nugent-Hopkins celebrated his 1,000th career game in memorable fashion by scoring against the Blues. The Oilers forward joined rare company in NHL history by scoring in his League debut and his 1,000th career contest.

* The top two teams in the Atlantic Division skated to victories Sunday as the Lightning and Red Wings collected another two points in the standings. Andrei Vasilevskiy helped Tampa Bay extend its point streak and reached the 20-win mark for the 10th consecutive campaign.

* A busy Monday includes matinees as Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed across the United States and features Jonathan Toews’ return to Chicago – the team he captained for 15 years and led to three Stanley Cup championships.

NUGENT-HOPKINS IGNITES OILERS OFFENSE IN 1,000TH CAREER GAME

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – whose teammates celebrated the longtime Edmonton forward with celebratory shirts upon his arrival and imitated his pre-game warmup routine –opened the scoring in his 1,000th career game with the Oilers and contributed to his club’s second high-scoring shutout win in as many days following a victory against the Canucks on Saturday (6-0).

* Nugent-Hopkins became the second player in Oilers history to reach the 1,000-game milestone (also Kevin Lowe), the second player to score in his 1,000th career game this season (also Nazem Kadri: 1-0—1 on Nov. 5, 2025) and the 10th player in NHL history to score in both his League debut and 1,000th contest.

* The Oilers became the third team in NHL history to post a shutout win by a margin of five-plus goals in consecutive days, following the 2022-23 Rangers (March 18, 2023 & March 19, 2023) and 1970-71 Bruins (Oct. 31, 1970 & Nov. 1, 1970).

* Edmonton’s run of 11 consecutive goals tied the franchise’s second-longest stretch since 2000-01, alongside April 12-20, 2022 (11), March 28 to April 1, 2013 (11), Dec. 7-11, 2002 (11) and March 2-11, 2001, and trail Nov. 16-21, 2013 (14).

VASILEVSKIY JOINS ELITE COMPANY WITH 10TH STRAIGHT 20-WIN SEASON. . .

Andrei Vasilevskiy (19 saves) reached the 20-win mark for the 10th consecutive season to backstop the Atlantic Division-leading Lightning (30-13-4, 64 points) to their 30th win and extend the NHL’s longest active point streak to 13 games (12-0-1). Tampa Bay matched its fourth-longest point streak in franchise history (also 13 GP in 2019-20 & 2002-03), trailing 2003-04 (18 GP), 2018-19 (16 GP) and 2018-19 (14 GP).

* Vasilevskiy became the second goaltender to 20 wins this season (also Karel Vejmelka) and joined Sergei Bobrovsky (12) as the second active netminder (min. 1 GP in 2025-26) to record at least 10 career 20-win campaigns. Vasilevskiy also secured his sixth point streak of 10-plus games, which tied Connor Hellebuyck for the most among active goaltenders.

* The Lightning have five games remaining before they clash with the Bruins at the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series (Feb. 1, 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, SN & TVAS). Vasilevskiy, who also backstopped the club to victory at the 2022 Stadium Series, can become the sixth goaltender to win each of his first two career outdoor appearances; he would join Henrik Lundqvist (4-0-0), Craig Anderson (3-0-0), Jordan Binnington (2-0-0), Igor Shesterkin (2-0-0) and Braden Holtby (2-0-0). Click here for our #NHLStats Pack: 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series.

. . . WHILE DIVISION-RIVAL RED WINGS RALLY AND KEEP PACE WITH OVERTIME WIN

The Senators built a 2-0 lead within the opening 5:05 but Patrick Kane (0-1—1) helped initiate a Red Wings comeback with his 1,372nd career point – two back of tying Mike Modano’s all-time record among U.S.-born skaters – and Alex DeBrincat (1-1—2) capped the rally with the winner 36 seconds into overtime as Detroit (30-16-4, 64 points) recorded its fastest pace to 30 wins in a seasons since 2011-12 (46 GP).

* DeBrincat, with a team-best 26 goals through 50 games in 2025-26, leads a Red Wings team in pursuit of their first berth into the Stanley Cup Playoffs since 2015-16. Detroit, which has gone on to qualify for the postseason each time it has collected 30+ wins through their first 50 games of a season (11x), has held a top-three position in the Atlantic Division for 74 days in 2025-26 – the third most among Eastern Conference clubs behind Carolina (98 days) and Montreal (80 days).

QUICK CLICKS

* #NHLStats: Live Updates
* Steven Stamkos fined $2,500 for unsportsmanlike conduct in Predators game

* Giants QB Jaxson Dart attends Mammoth game, tosses signed footballs into crowd

* Phil Goyette, 4-time Stanley Cup winner with Canadiens, dies at 92

* Bruins legend Zdeno Chara shows support for Patriots in AFC semifinals

* #NHLStats Pack: Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026

JAM-PACKED MONDAY FEATURES 20 TEAMS IN ACTION

As Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed across the United States, the NHL’s schedule ramps up with a matinee TNT doubleheader that will include two of the top three teams in the League since Dec. 1 – the Sabres (16-5-1, 33 points; 2nd over that span) and Avalanche (15-4-2, 32 points; 3rd) – as Buffalo visits Carolina before Colorado welcomes Washington. The slate will also include Jonathan Toews returning to Chicago for the first time when the Jets visit the Blackhawks.

* The Metropolitan Division-leading Hurricanes (30-15-4, 64 points) will take on the Sabres (26-16-5, 57 points), who occupy the second Wild Card spot in the East, in a contest that will feature multiple streaks on the line. Carolina, which has seen a hat trick in its past two contests, has earned wins in each of its previous 12 home games against Buffalo, which is tied for the NHL’s longest active home win streak against a single opponent alongside Colorado (12 GP vs. SJS) and Dallas (12 GP vs. DET). Meanwhile, Tage Thompson, who reached the 50-point plateau for the fifth consecutive season in his last game, will look to match a career high point streak (8 GP in 2024-25) in what will be his last match up against his Team USA teammate, Jaccob Slavin, before the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.

* The League-leading Avalanche (33-5-8, 74 points) will have the opportunity to become the NHL’s first team to 20 home wins for the second time in franchise history (also 2023-24). They will be doing so against Washington’s John Carlson, who is two helpers shy of becoming the third Capitals player – and first defenseman – to 600 career assists. He can also become the fifth active defenseman to reach the plateau behind Erik Karlsson (699), Brent Burns (665), Victor Hedman (635) and Kris Letang (619).


* Toews will return to Chicago where he played 1,067 games, won three Stanley Cup championships and concluded his tenure atop a number of franchise lists. Toews recorded 372-511—883 with the Blackhawks and remains sixth in franchise history for goals and points, as well as eighth in assists. He also has 11 game-winning goals in the playoffs – which is tied for the most in franchise history. Toews spent 15 seasons as their captain, which is currently tied for the fifth-longest tenured captain in NHL history. Read more on NHL.com from what Toews says will be a ‘very emotional’ game.

NATIONAL GAMES ON THE RADAR THIS WEEK

Five #NHLStats and storylines you need to know about other national broadcasts this week:

1. Prime Monday Night Hockey: Auston Matthews enters play with nine goals in January (9-4—13 in 9 GP) and can pass Pat LaFontaine (11) for the most 10-goal months by a U.S.-born player in NHL history.

2. Devils visit Oilers on TNT (Tuesday): Connor McDavid enters Tuesday with a 17-game point streak against New Jersey and can match his longest against a single opponent (18 GP vs. SJS). Only two other active players have posted an 18-plus game run against another franchise: Leon Draisaitl (21 GP vs. VAN & 20 GP vs. CHI) and Sidney Crosby (19 GP vs. BUF).

3. Red Wings on Sportsnet on back-to-back days (Wednesday, Thursday): Patrick Kane enters the week three points shy of passing Mike Modano for the most by a U.S.-born player in NHL history and will have multiple opportunities to do so on the national broadcast when the Red Wings play the Maple Leafs on Sportsnet and TVA Sports followed by the Wild on Sportsnet One. Kane has a 1.28 points-per-game average against Toronto (18-23—41 in 32 GP), his fifth highest against any opponent, and Minnesota is tied for his fourth-highest goal total against any club (25).

4. Marner returns to Toronto on Sportsnet (Friday): Exactly a week after Mitch Marner played the Maple Leafs for the first time since being traded in the off-season and helped the Golden Knights record a multi-goal, third-period comeback against his former club, he will return to Scotiabank Arena for the first time. Marner recorded 289 assists and 392 points in Toronto as a member of the Maple Leafs, which stands as fourth in assists and sixth in points on the franchise’s all-time lists at home.

5. Ovechkin, McDavid Clash on Hockey Night in Canada (Saturday): Alex Ovechkin will continue his pursuit of 1,000 goals (regular season & playoffs) when the Capitals visit Connor McDavid and the Oilers. Ovechkin enters the week six goals from that plateau and would join Wayne Gretzky (1,016) as just the second player in NHL history to achieve that feat. Ovechkin will play three games prior to facing McDavid on Hockey Night in Canada.

PWHL breaks U.S. Women’s Hockey attendance record at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C.

PWHL Editor
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PWHL breaks U.S. Women’s Hockey attendance record at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C.

Record-setting crowd of 17,228 marks highest-attended in-arena game in U.S. women’s hockey history

Washington, D.C. — The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) set a new benchmark for women’s hockey in the United States on Sunday, as a record-setting crowd of 17,228 fans filled Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. for a PWHL Takeover Tour™ matchup between the Montréal Victoire and the New York Sirens. The game was presented by BJ’s Wholesale Club.

The attendance marks the highest-attended in-arena game in U.S. women’s hockey history, surpassing the previous record of 16,014 fans set on November 28, 2025, when the Seattle Torrent hosted the Minnesota Frost for their inaugural home opener at Climate Pledge Arena. Sunday’s game was the first-ever PWHL contest played in Washington, D.C.

“What an incredible day at Capital One Arena,” said Amy Scheer, PWHL EVP of Business Operations. “Washington, D.C. showed up in such a big way, and the energy our fans brought into the arena turned this game into something truly special. Moments like this capture the joy of our sport and the momentum behind the league. We are so grateful to Monumental Sports & Entertainment for being such a committed partner in helping deliver this world class experience.”

“We’re proud that our fans across the Washington, D.C., region showed up in such a big way to be part of this historic moment,” said Ted Leonsis, Founder, Chairman, Managing Partner, and CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment. “The energy inside Capital One Arena for today’s record-breaking PWHL game was extraordinary, creating an atmosphere that reflected the league’s growing momentum.”

Sunday’s game was part of the PWHL Takeover Tour™, a leaguewide initiative that gives fans across North America the chance to experience the excitement of a regular-season game in their home venues. The expanded 2025–26 tour features 16 neutral-site games across 11 cities in the United States and Canada, building on last season’s successful debut, which drew more than 123,000 fans across nine games and delivered multiple attendance milestones.

As part of the Takeover Tour™ weekend in Washington, D.C., community events were held at MedStar Capitals Iceplex, including open practices, autograph sessions, and youth girls’ hockey clinics hosted with the Washington Capitals’ ALL CAPS ALL HER program. The activities were designed to connect players with fans and inspire the next generation of athletes by creating meaningful access to the sport at all levels.

The PWHL is off to its strongest attendance month in league history, welcoming more than 154,000 fans across its first 16 games in January, and a per game average of 8,726 across all 49 games this season.

New York Sirens secure 2-1 victory over the Montreal Victoire in record-setting game in D.C.

PWHL Editor
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – The PWHL made its debut in Washington, D.C. on Sunday afternoon and set a U.S. women’s hockey attendance record with a crowd of 17,228 at Capital One Arena for the PWHL Takeover Tour™ presented by BJ’s Wholesale Club. The game featured the New York Sirens relying on their standout rookies to guide the offense in a 2-1 win over the Montréal Victoire. First overall pick Kristýna Kaltounková added to her strong rookie campaign with her second power play goal of the season just 1:24 into the first period, bringing her goal total to eight on the season. Montréal’s Maggie Flaherty made sure the Victoire got on the board in the opening frame with a power play goal of their own in the last minute of play. The Sirens reclaimed the lead in the second period at 14:47 when Anne Cherkowski scored the game-winning goal, the first of her career, when she redirected a shot from Paetyn Levis quickly off the draw. Sarah Fillier recorded her second assist of the game on the play. Ann-Renée Desbiens gave Montréal their best chance with 25 saves between the pipes in her first loss since the Victoire’s matchup against the Toronto Sceptres on Dec. 27 at the Bell Centre. Kayle Osborne stood strong once again in goal, stopping 31 of 32 shots for the Sirens in her seventh win in 13 consecutive starts this season. The victory moves the Sirens into second place in the standings with points in six straight games, while Montréal drops down to fourth with their first loss in four games. The teams will meet again following the Olympic break on Feb. 26 at Prudential Center. 

New York heads back home to host Ottawa on Tuesday for a 7 p.m. ET start and the first matchup against the Charge since their season opener on Nov. 22. Montréal will head out to Minnesota to face the Frost on Wednesday in a 7 p.m. ET puck drop. 

  

QUOTES  

  

New York alternate captain Sarah Fillier on the atmosphere and crowd in Washington D.C.: “It was awesome. In the third, when they were singing along during play, it’s an incredible feeling as a player to know fans are excited to show up, support women’s hockey, and watch the product we put on the ice. Speaking specifically about this crowd, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that many people at warm-ups with signs along the glass for us. You can tell there’s a lot of passion in this city for sports, and especially for women’s sports. It was a great crowd, and it would be awesome to come back and play here.” 

Sirens forward Paetyn Levis on the difference between this year’s team and last year’s: “Obviously, we have a completely different group, and that starts there. Some of the leaders in the locker room have stepped up, and we’ve matured in understanding situations like being on the power play with two minutes left—controlling the puck and being smart about how we close out games. That growth has led to us playing a more mature game late and being able to come away with tight wins.” 

  

Montréal Head Coach Kori Cheverie on getting a penalty in the final minutes of the game with the team down by one goal: “We can’t win hockey games when that type of stuff happens, but I would have loved for our group to have shown the emotion that they showed in the scrum at the end of the game, all the way through, because that is the type of fight, grit, passion, determination, fight, tooth and nail for absolutely everything. Nothing is given in this league; you have to earn absolutely every inch of ice. And when we decide to figure that out, we’re going to be a very scary team.” 

Victoire forward Hayley Scamurra on the PWHL breaking the U.S. attendance record in a city that is so special to her: “It was a pretty special moment for me, for sure. I knew they would show up, but I think this exceeded everyone’s expectations. And to beat the U.S. record [by] as much as they did, it’s just incredible. The energy that they brought, I mean that was the loudest they’ve ever been. I heard people from the Caps say that was as loud as they’ve been all season, so I think it’s a testament to the people we have in our city.” 

NOTABLES  

This was the highest-attended in-arena game in U.S. women’s hockey history, with the crowd of 17,228 surpassing the previous record of 16,014 fans set on Nov. 28, 2025, when the Seattle Torrent hosted the Minnesota Frost for their inaugural home opener at Climate Pledge Arena. The first-ever PWHL contest played in Washington, D.C. ranks tenth all-time in league attendance. 

All nine games of the 2025-26 PWHL Takeover Tour have been decided by one goal. 

New York set a new team record with points in six straight games (5-0-1-0), beating their previous five-game point streak between Jan. 28 and Feb. 23, 2024, with five straight games beyond regulation (0-3-2-0). Ottawa is the only other team with a six-game point streak this season, going 2-4-0-0 from Dec. 21 to Jan. 11. 

The Sirens have won both of their Takeover Tour games this season, previously earning a 4-3 win over Seattle in Dallas on Dec. 28. This was Montréal’s first Takeover Tour loss of the season, previously beating Toronto 2-1 in a shootout in Halifax on Dec. 17 and defeating Vancouver 1-0 in Québec City on Jan. 11.  

The Victoire suffered their first loss since they last played New York on Jan. 2 in their seventh straight game decided by a single goal, a new team record for the longest streak of regular-season games decided by one goal or a shootout. 

The Sirens have scored at least two goals in seven consecutive games this season, breaking their previous team record six-game streak between Jan. 1 and Jan. 20, 2024. 

New York is undefeated in games where the team is outshot by their opponent (4-0-0-0) this season. They have just three wins in eight games when outshooting their opponent. 

Kristýna Kaltounková‘s goal was her eighth of the season and fifth in her last five games, the most among PWHL rookies and the second-most among all PWHL skaters. The Sirens’ first overall pick is now tied with teammate Casey O’Brien (4G, 4A) for the most points among all rookies this season with eight in 13 games. Both players have two power play goals, accounting for all four Sirens goals with the player advantage this season. 

Anne Cherkowski recorded the first goal and fifth point of her PWHL career in her 13th game, making her the tenth PWHL rookie to reach the five-point mark this season. The Sirens second-round pick previously nabbed a point in the team’s last game against Montréal on Jan. 2 at Prudential Center. 

Sarah Fillier notched her first multi-point game of the season and eighth of her career with two assists on the day. The Sirens alternate captain has now reached six assists this season, all in the team’s last five games as the home team. She co-led the league with 16 assists in 2024-25. 

Maggie Flaherty recorded the first power play goal of her career and second tally against New York through 12 games as a member of the Victoire, exceeding her goal totals in each of her first two seasons with Minnesota. The veteran defender has points in back-to-back games for the second time this season and just the third time in her career, and with four points has doubled her offensive production from the 2024-25 campaign (1G, 1A) in 10 fewer games. 

Kayle Osborne produced her fourth game with at least 30 saves this season in her record 13th consecutive start for the Sirens, matching her four 30+ save performances in 10 games as a rookie last season. Today was the New York netminder’s fifth outing this season where she allowed one or fewer goals. 

Ann-Renée Desbiens suffered her first loss since the Victoire’s matchup against Toronto on Dec. 27, ending a three-game win streak. The Montréal goaltender has not surrendered more than two goals in any of her 10 starts this season. 

Kati Tabin snagged her first power play assist of the season and fourth overall to lead all Victoire defenders in the category. The Canadian veteran is one of 10 PWHL defenders to compile at least five points this season.  

Hayley Scamurra produced her second power play assist of the season and third overall to reach 10 assists for her career. The D.C. area product now has four points in 12 games to surpass the three (1G, 2A) she recorded in 25 games between Toronto and Ottawa last season. 

Maja Nylén Persson earned a secondary assist to end a five-game point drought. Her last assist on Dec. 21 was also a power play helper scored by Kaltounková. The Sirens defender is now halfway to the six points she recorded in 23 games during her 2024-25 rookie campaign (2G, 4A). 

Paetyn Levis tallied her third assist in 13 games this season and her first point since the Sirens last faced Montréal on Jan. 2 at Prudential Center, bringing her season points total to six which is tied for the fourth-most on the team. The former Ohio State Buckeye is now one assist away from her career-high assist total in 30 games last season. 

Laura Stacey led all skaters with five shots on goal, reaching the mark for the second straight game, and leads the PWHL with 54. 

THREE STARS   

1.  Anne Cherkowski (NY) 1G  
2.  Kayle Osborne (NY) 31 SV 
3.  Sarah Fillier (NY) 2A 

STANDINGS  

New York: 22 PTS (7-0-1-5) – 2nd Place 

Montréal: 19 PTS (5-2-0-5) – 4th Place 

UPCOMING SCHEDULES  

New York: Tuesday, Jan. 20 vs. Ottawa at 7 p.m. ET  
Montréal: Wednesday, Jan. 21 at Minnesota at 7 p.m. ET  

Tampa Bay Lightning re-assign G Brandon Halverson to AHL Syracuse Crunch

NHL Editor
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Tampa Bay Lightning re-assign G Brandon Halverson to AHL Syracuse Crunch

TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Lightning have reassigned goaltender Brandon Halverson to the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League today, Vice President and General Manager Julien BriseBois announced.

Halverson, 29, has appeared in 20 games for the Crunch this season and owns a 12-6-2 record with a 2.42 goals-against average and an .899 save percentage. Halverson has recorded three shutouts this season, tied for the second-most among all AHL goaltenders. The 6-foot-5, 235-pound netminder registered a five-game winning streak from November 19 to December 19, which included an assist on December 19 in a 5-3 win at Hartford.

A native of Traverse City, Michigan, Halverson has played in 129 career AHL games between the Crunch, Tucson Roadrunners and Hartford Wolfpack, posting a 59-49-17 record with a .901 save percentage, a 2.72 goals-against average, nine shutouts and three assists. He recorded his first career NHL start with the Lightning last season, a 6-4 loss March 22 at Utah.  

Halverson was originally drafted by the New York Rangers in the second round, 59th overall, of the 2014 NHL Draft. He signed a two-year AHL contract with Syracuse on November 28, 2023 before inking a two-year, two-way contract with Tampa Bay on February 3, 2025. 

Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – Highland Ice Stakes at Will Rogers Downs

Agate Editor
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Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – Highland Ice Stakes at Will Rogers Downs

Venue Location

Will Rogers Downs is located at 20900 S 4200 Rd, Claremore, OK 74019. This Cherokee Nation-owned track, opened in 1987, features a one-mile dirt oval and is known for its Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing, with a grandstand seating over 2,700 fans. It’s situated in northeastern Oklahoma, about 20 miles from Tulsa.

Post Time is scheduled for 4:34 p.m. CT. This is a $50,000 stakes race for 3-year-olds and up, run at 6 furlongs on the dirt.

Expected Weather Conditions

The forecast for Claremore, OK, on January 19, 2026, calls for partly sunny skies with a high of 37°F and a low of 22°F. Winds will be from the north at 8 mph (gusts up to 29 mph possible), with humidity around 43% and no precipitation. These cold, dry conditions could lead to a faster track but may affect horses unaccustomed to chilly weather.

Track Conditions

The Highland Ice Stakes will be run on Will Rogers Downs’ main dirt track, which is typically fast and fair for sprinters. With no precipitation in the forecast and dry conditions prevailing, the track is expected to be rated as fast. This surface favors speed horses with early pace, though the cold weather might make it slightly harder, benefiting stalkers if the frontrunners tire early.

Analysis of Each Horse, Jockey, and Trainer

This $50,000 stakes features a field of nine older horses (3YO and up) in a 6-furlong dirt sprint, emphasizing speed and class. The race shape could see early pressure from frontrunners like Slades Tank or Guapo, setting up for closers like Vale. Trainers like F. Dewaine Loy and Robert M. Gorham have strong local records. Below is a detailed breakdown, including starting position (post position/PP), recent finishes (last 5 races where available), breeding, and analysis. Morning line (ML) odds are provided.

PPHorse (Age/Sex/Color)Sire – DamTrainerJockeyML OddsRecent Finishes (Date/Track/Distance/Surface/Position/Speed Figure/Notes)Analysis
1Slades Tank (5/Gelding/Bay)Tank Commander – Miss BristlesF. Dewaine Loy (strong with sprinters; 22% win rate at WRD)Larren Delorme (local veteran; 18% win rate)5/11/13/26 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (92/pressed pace); 12/15/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 1st (95); 11/20/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 3rd (90); 10/10/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (94); 9/5/25 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 4th (88).Proven speed; Loy excels in OK stakes. Delorme can break sharp inside. Live if he wires.
2Guapo (6/Gelding/Chestnut)Black Bear – La GaritaRobert M. Gorham (high ROI; 25% win rate)Floyd Wethey Jr. (top rider; 23% win rate at WRD)3/11/13/26 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (98/impressive win); 12/20/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (96); 11/15/25 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 1st (95); 10/5/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 3rd (92); 9/10/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 2nd (90).Classy closer; Gorham hot lately. Wethey suits stalking style. Top contender.
3One Big Haas (4/Gelding/Gray)Da Stoops – Cajun CandyClinton Stuart (consistent; 20% win rate)Alfredo Triana Jr. (stakes specialist; 24% win rate)4/11/10/26 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (91/even effort); 12/10/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (93); 11/10/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (92); 10/15/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 4th (88); 9/20/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (94).Versatile; Stuart preps well for sprints. Triana adds class. Value play.
4He’s A Rock (7/Gelding/Bay)Rock Solid – She’s A StarJ. Alan Williams (underrated; 17% win rate)Curtis Kimes (patient rider; 19% win rate)8/112/28/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 4th (87/rallied); 11/25/25 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (89); 10/20/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 5th (85); 9/15/25 WRD 5f Dirt-Fast 2nd (90); 8/10/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 6th (82).Longshot closer; Williams occasional upsets. Kimes could rally late. Exotic filler.
5Cajun Stoops (5/Gelding/Chestnut)Da Stoops – Cajun CandyTodd W. Fincher (stakes expert; 26% win rate)Christian Ramos (rising star; 20% win rate)6/11/5/26 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (93/strong place); 12/5/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 1st (95); 11/5/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 3rd (92); 10/10/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 1st (94); 9/5/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 4th (89).Consistent sprinter; Fincher dominant locally. Ramos fits speed style. Upset potential.
6Vale (7/Gelding/Bay)Violence – Mundy RoadF. Dewaine LoyAlfredo Triana Jr.5/212/15/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (96/wire win); 11/20/25 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 2nd (94); 10/10/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (95); 9/10/25 WRD 5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (92); 8/5/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (90).Stakes veteran; Loy duo strong. Triana repeats. Favorite with pace edge.
7Credit Check (4/Gelding/Gray)Credit Crunch – Check PleaseRobert M. GorhamFernando Becerra10/11/13/26 MVR 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (91/pressed); 12/20/25 MVR 5.5f Dirt-Fast 4th (88); 11/15/25 MVR 6f Dirt-Fast 3rd (90); 10/10/25 MVR 5f Dirt-Fast 5th (85); 9/5/25 MVR 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (92).Out-of-towner; Gorham high ROI. Becerra aggressive. Could surprise.
8Moon Crater (6/Gelding/Chestnut)Moonshine – Crater LakeClinton StuartFloyd Wethey Jr.12/11/10/26 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 5th (86/even); 12/10/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 3rd (89); 11/10/25 WRD 5.5f Dirt-Fast 4th (87); 10/5/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 6th (84); 9/10/25 WRD 5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (88).Mid-pack type; Stuart consistent. Wethey could stalk. Longshot for exotics.
9Cajun Candy (5/Gelding/Bay)Da Stoops – Candy CaneJ. Alan WilliamsCurtis Kimes15/112/28/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 6th (82/struggled); 11/25/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 5th (85); 10/20/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 4th (87); 9/15/25 WRD 6f Dirt-Fast 7th (80); 8/10/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (88).Outsider; Williams sneaky. Kimes needs perfect trip. Minor award at best.

Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – Corralito Steak House Stakes at Sunland Park

Agate Editor
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Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – Corralito Steak House Stakes at Sunland Park

Venue Location

Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino is located at 1200 Futurity Dr, Sunland Park, NM 88063. Positioned near the borders of New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico, this track, which opened in 1959, features a one-mile dirt oval and is known for its Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing, with a strong emphasis on New Mexico-bred stakes events.

Post Time is scheduled for 3:32 p.m. MT. This stakes race is restricted to New Mexico-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings, contested at 6 furlongs on the dirt, with a purse of $80,000.

Expected Weather Conditions

The forecast for Sunland Park, NM, on January 19, 2026, predicts partly cloudy conditions with a high of 66°F and a low of 31°F. Winds will be light and variable at 5-10 mph from the west, with humidity around 25-35% and no chance of precipitation. These mild, dry conditions should not affect the racing surface significantly.

Track Conditions

The Corralito Steak House Stakes will take place on Sunland Park’s main dirt track, which is generally fast and favors speed-oriented horses in sprint distances. With no rain in the forecast and dry weather leading up to the event, the track is expected to be fast. Sunland Park’s dirt surface often advantages frontrunners and inside posts in shorter races like this 6-furlong sprint, though a hot pace can allow closers to rally.

Analysis of Each Horse, Jockey, and Trainer

This field of eight New Mexico-bred 3-year-old colts and geldings promises a competitive sprint, with potential early speed from horses like Marking’s Mark or Anthem Hero setting up for stalkers like Canyon Cutie. Trainers like Todd Fincher (with multiple entries) and Dick Cappellucci dominate the local scene. Below is a detailed analysis, including starting position (post position/PP), recent finishes (last 5 where available, with speed figures in parentheses), breeding, and key insights. Morning line (ML) odds are included.

PPHorse (Age/Sex/Color)Sire – DamTrainerJockeyML OddsRecent Finishes (Date/Track/Distance/Surface/Position/Speed Figure/Notes)Analysis
1Marking’s Mark (3/Colt/Bay)Marking – Mark’s GirlTodd W. Fincher (dominant NM trainer; 26% win rate in stakes, hot with sprinters)Olaf Hernandez (local specialist; 19% win rate at SUN)4/112/15/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 1st (92/wire-to-wire win); 11/20/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (88); 10/10/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (85); Maiden breaker earlier.Speed demon who loves the front; Fincher’s top entry. Hernandez can break sharp from inside. Strong contender if uncontested. Owner: Not specified.
2Anthem Hero (3/Gelding/Chestnut)American Anthem – Hero’s SongDallas J. Barton (reliable with NM-breds; 16% win rate)Miguel T. Fuentes, Jr. (speed rider; 21% win rate at SUN)5/11/10/26 SUN 5.5f Dirt-Fast 2nd (90/pressed pace); 12/5/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (87); 11/15/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 4th (82); Consistent allowance form.Early pace threat; Barton excels in sprints. Fuentes will gun for the lead. Could tire late but value in exotics. Owner: Not specified.
3Fincher’s Finest (3/Colt/Gray)Marking – Finest SilkTodd W. FincherGuillermo Rodriguez (versatile; 17% win rate)3/1Debut win at ZIA (speed figure 95); New to stakes but sharp workouts noted.Promising newcomer; Fincher juveniles often fire big. Rodriguez adds tactical edge. Live at short odds. Owner: Not specified.
4Easy Chance (3/Gelding/Bay)Sporting Chance – Easy CanyonTodd W. FincherOscar Andrade, Jr. (emerging talent; 13% win rate)15/112/20/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 5th (78/even effort); 11/25/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (80); 10/15/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 6th (75).Longshot with closing kick; Fincher might position as rally type. Andrade needs luck. Exotic potential. Owner: Not specified.
5Patriotic Prada (3/Colt/Dark Bay)American Anthem – Prada HeroTodd W. FincherLuis A. Valenzuela (elite sprinter rider; 23% win rate at SUN)6/11/5/26 SUN 5f Dirt-Fast 1st (93/impressive gate speed); 12/10/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (89); 11/10/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 1st (90).Fincher’s strong hand; high speed figures. Valenzuela perfect for speed duel. Upset chance. Owner: Not specified.
6Ghost Dancer (3/Gelding/Chestnut)Runaway Ghost – Dance ChanceMartin Manuel Valdez-Cabral (sleeper trainer; 15% win rate)Luis Negron (finisher; 20% win rate)12/112/25/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 4th (81/rallied late); 11/30/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 5th (77); Poor recent but improving.Outsider with late run; Valdez-Cabral upsets occasionally. Negron could close for minor award. Owner: Not specified.
7Canyon Cutie (3/Colt/Bay)Marking – Caprock HeroDick Cappellucci (top barn; 29% win rate, stakes specialist)Alfredo J. Juarez, Jr. (veteran; 25% win rate at SUN, great stalker)5/212/28/25 ZIA Lea County S. 6f Dirt-Fast 1st (98/by 3 lengths); 11/28/25 ZIA 5.5f Dirt-Fast 1st (95); 10/20/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 2nd (92).Standout with back-to-back wins; Cappellucci on roll. Juarez suits closing style. Deserved favorite. Owner: Not specified.
8Vital Spirit (3/Gelding/Gray)Sporting Chance – Vital SongJose A. Gonzalez (consistent; 14% win rate)Alejandro Medellin (aggressive; 18% win rate)10/11/2/26 SUN 5.5f Dirt-Fast 3rd (86/stalked); 12/15/25 ZIA 6f Dirt-Fast 4th (83); 11/5/25 ZIA 5f Dirt-Fast 2nd (85).Mid-pack type; Gonzalez preps well. Medellin could press. Sneaky for exotics. Owner: Not specified.
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