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NBA Game Preview: Dallas Mavericks (14-24) vs. Chicago Bulls (17-20)

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NBA Game Preview: Dallas Mavericks (14-24) vs. Chicago Bulls (17-20)

The Dallas Mavericks hit the road to face the Chicago Bulls in an interconference clash, with the Mavericks looking to overcome a rash of injuries and poor form while the Bulls aim to snap a three-game losing streak on home court. Dallas, struggling in the Western Conference basement, faces a Bulls team that’s been competitive but inconsistent in the East. This matchup could turn on frontcourt battles and perimeter defense, especially with key Mavericks sidelined.

Venue Location

United Center, Chicago, Illinois.

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

Recent Team Forms

The Mavericks are in a tailspin, posting a 2-8 record in their last 10 games with a -6.4 point differential.

They recently fell 116-114 to the Utah Jazz on January 8 and 110-104 to the Houston Rockets on January 6, averaging 110.2 points scored and 116.6 allowed in that span.

On the road, Dallas is 6-14, with turnovers plaguing them (16.5 per game in losses) amid injuries to key players.

The Bulls have dropped three straight, going 4-6 in their last 10 with a -3.2 point differential.

They suffered a 108-93 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on January 8, but earlier notched wins like 135-125 over the Knicks on December 15.

At home, Chicago is 9-9, but defensive lapses have allowed 121.2 points per game overall, though they’ve shown rebounding strength in close contests.

Injury Report

Dallas Mavericks:

Anthony Davis (PF): Out (Left hand ligament damage; MRI confirmed, consulting for surgery, expected to miss extended time).

Kyrie Irving (PG): Out (Undisclosed; out since December 13).

Dereck Lively II (C): Out (Undisclosed; out since December 10).

Brandon Williams (PG): Out (Undisclosed; out since December 27).

These absences cripple Dallas’ interior defense and playmaking, forcing reliance on rookies and bench depth.

Chicago Bulls:

Josh Giddey (PG): Out (Right hamstring strain).

Zach Collins (PF): Out (Right toe sprain).

Jalen Smith (PF): Out (Concussion).

Kevin Huerter (SG): Questionable (Back).

Yuki Kawamura (PG): Out (Lower leg).

Noa Essengue (F): Out (Left shoulder).

Chicago’s backcourt and frontcourt depth is tested, but core players remain available.

Player Matchups to Watch

With Dallas missing Davis and Irving, the game shifts to emerging talents and veteran anchors, potentially leading to a rebounding and transition battle.

Cooper Flagg (Mavs SF) vs. Matas Buzelis (Bulls SF): Rookie Flagg leads Dallas recently with 19.1 PPG and 6.6 RPG, scoring 26 in a recent loss. He’ll clash with Buzelis (17.7 PPG over last 10), whose athleticism could exploit Mavs’ thinned frontcourt.

Anthony Davis (Mavs PF) vs. Nikola Vucevic (Bulls C): Davis is out, but if he were playing, his 20.4 PPG would test Vucevic (16.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.6 APG).

With Davis sidelined, Vucevic dominates the paint against backups like Lively (out) or others.

PJ Washington (Mavs PF) vs. Patrick Williams (Bulls PF): Washington steps up in Davis’ absence, facing Williams (18.6 PPG in recent starts).

This matchup could decide rebounding, with Bulls holding a slight edge.

Series History

The Mavericks lead the all-time series 46-42 in 88 regular-season games.

In the last 10 meetings, Dallas holds a 6-4 edge, including a 120-119 win on March 29, 2025, and 119-99 on November 6, 2024.

The Mavs have won three of the last four in Chicago, but games often stay under the total, hitting in 6 of 10.

Betting Trends

Mavericks are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 as underdogs of 0.5-4.5.

Bulls are 2-3 ATS in their last 5, but 4-6 as home favorites.

The over has hit in 5 of Dallas’ last 5 as favorites, but under in 6 of Chicago’s last 10 home games.

Game Odds

Dallas Mavericks              231.45

Chicago Bulls                     – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 9, 2026

NBA Game Preview: Miami Heat (20-17) vs. Indiana Pacers (7-31)

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NBA Game Preview: Miami Heat (20-17) vs. Indiana Pacers (7-31)

The Miami Heat travel to face the Indiana Pacers in an Eastern Conference matchup, with the Heat looking to capitalize on Indiana’s dismal season and extend their dominance in recent head-to-heads. Miami’s balanced attack meets a Pacers team that’s just snapped a lengthy losing streak but remains plagued by injuries and defensive woes. This game could see high scoring if Indiana’s offense clicks, but the Heat’s experience should prevail.

Venue Location

Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. CT).

Recent Team Forms

The Heat have gone 6-4 in their last 10 games, with a +2.0 point differential, showing solid but inconsistent play. They are coming off a 122-94 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 6, but prior wins include a 142-116 blowout over the Pacers on December 27. On the road, Miami is 10-9, averaging 118.2 points scored and 116.5 allowed in recent away games.

The Pacers snapped a 13-game losing streak with a 114-112 win over the Charlotte Hornets on January 8, but are 1-9 in their last 10 with a -8.8 point differential. They remain in a deep slump, with seven straight home losses, averaging 110.8 points scored and 119.5 allowed. At home, Indiana is 4-16, struggling with turnovers and perimeter defense.

Injury Report

Miami Heat:

Bam Adebayo (C): Available (Lower back soreness).

Tyler Herro (SG): Available (Recently returned from right toe injury, played January 6).
No other major injuries reported, though the team rested key players recently.

Indiana Pacers:

Tyrese Haliburton (PG): Out (Right Achilles tendon tear; season-ending).

Isaiah Jackson (PF): Out (Concussion).

Andrew Nembhard (PG): Game-time decision (Back).
These absences severely hamper Indiana’s playmaking and interior presence.

Player Matchups to Watch

Without Haliburton, the Pacers lean on secondary creators, setting up lopsided battles favoring Miami’s veterans.

Jimmy Butler (Heat SF) vs. Pascal Siakam (Pacers PF): Butler averages 22.5 PPG with elite defense (1.8 SPG), exploiting Indiana’s weak perimeter. Siakam, Indiana’s top scorer (20.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG), must carry the load but struggles against Butler’s physicality.

Tyler Herro (Heat SG) vs. Bennedict Mathurin (Pacers SG): Herro’s return boosts Miami’s shooting (24.3 PPG, 38% from three), targeting Pacers’ backcourt gaps. Mathurin (18.6 PPG) provides athleticism but lacks consistency.

Bam Adebayo (Heat C) vs. Myles Turner (Pacers C): Adebayo dominates inside (19.8 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 1.4 BPG), especially with Jackson out. Turner (15.4 PPG, 2.1 BPG) offers rim protection but may be overmatched in rebounding.

Series History

The Pacers lead the all-time series 76-59 in 135 regular-season games. In the last 10 meetings, Miami holds a 6-4 edge, including a 142-116 win on December 27, 2025, and 125-120 on February 28, 2025. The Heat have won four of the last five, outscoring Indiana by an average of 8.2 points. Games trend over, hitting in 7 of 10.

Betting Trends

Heat are 15-3 ATS when scoring 120+ points, and 12-10 vs. Eastern foes. Pacers are 5-28 as underdogs, covering 11-9 at home but 3-17 in games decided by 10+ points. The over has hit in 6 of Miami’s last 10 road games and 7 of Indiana’s last 10 overall.

Game Odds

Miami Heat                        – 7.5

Indiana Pacers                  236.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 9, 2026

NBA Game Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (25-13) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (21-18)

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NBA Game Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (25-13) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (21-18)

The Minnesota Timberwolves take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in an Eastern Conference road game for the Wolves, marking the second matchup between these teams in three days following their January 8 clash in Minneapolis. The Timberwolves, atop the Western Conference standings, aim to extend their winning streak against a Cavaliers squad looking to bounce back from recent inconsistencies and climb the Eastern ladder. This contest could hinge on perimeter shooting and frontcourt battles, with both teams dealing with minor injury concerns.

Venue Location

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, Ohio.

Tipoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. CT).

Recent Team Forms

The Timberwolves are surging, riding a four-game winning streak and going 7-3 in their last 10 games, with a +8.2 point differential.

They recently dominated the Miami Heat 122-94 on January 8 and edged the Cavaliers 131-122 in their prior matchup on January 8, averaging 118.5 points scored and 110.3 allowed in that span.

On the road, Minnesota is 10-8, winning three of their last five away contests despite occasional turnover issues.

The Cavaliers have been up-and-down, posting a 4-6 record in their last 10 games with a -2.4 point differential.

They fell 131-122 to the Timberwolves on January 8 and lost 110-114 to the Detroit Pistons on January 6, but secured wins like a 139-132 thriller over Charlotte on December 22.

At home, Cleveland is 12-6, but they’ve dropped two of their last three at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, allowing 114.5 points per game in recent losses.

Injury Report

Minnesota Timberwolves:

Mike Conley (PG): Out (Rest).

Anthony Edwards (SG): Questionable (Right Foot; soreness from January 8 game).

Julius Randle (PF): Questionable (Thumb).

Terrence Shannon Jr. (SG): Out (Foot; extended absence due to abductor hallucis strain).

Rocco Zikarsky (C): GTD (Undisclosed).

These issues could strain Minnesota’s backcourt depth, especially if Edwards sits, forcing more reliance on bench guards.

Cleveland Cavaliers:

Dean Wade (PF): Out (Knee; expected out until at least January 10).

Donovan Mitchell (SG): Probable (Recently rested, but available).

No other major injuries reported as of the latest update, though the team submitted reports late; monitor for rest decisions post-January 8 loss.

Player Matchups to Watch

This rematch features explosive guards and versatile bigs, with the January 8 game highlighting perimeter duels where Minnesota outshot Cleveland 52% to 48%.

Anthony Edwards (Wolves SG) vs. Donovan Mitchell (Cavs SG): Edwards dropped 30+ points in the January 8 win and averages 28.5 PPG, testing Cleveland’s defense with his athleticism (0.72 goals/game projected).

Mitchell, fresh off rest, counters with 27.2 PPG and quickness, aiming to exploit Edwards’ potential foot issue in transition.

Julius Randle (Wolves PF) vs. Evan Mobley (Cavs PF): Randle dominated January 8 with 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists, using his physicality (11.4 RPG).

Mobley, a defensive anchor (9.8 RPG, 2.1 BPG), must contain Randle’s post play without Wade’s help.

Jaden McDaniels (Wolves SF) vs. Darius Garland (Cavs PG): McDaniels’ length disrupted Cleveland’s offense in the last meeting, holding opponents to low shooting.

Garland, with 8.2 APG, will probe for mismatches in pick-and-rolls.

Goaltending: Naz Reid (Wolves) vs. Jarrett Allen (Cavs) – Reid’s spacing vs. Allen’s rim protection could decide paint control.

Series History

The Cavaliers lead the all-time series 42-27 in 69 regular-season meetings.

In the last 10 games, Cleveland holds a 6-4 edge, but Minnesota snapped a two-game Cavaliers win streak with a 131-122 victory on January 8, 2026.

Prior wins for Cleveland include 128-107 on February 10, 2025, and 117-124 on January 19, 2025.

Games often feature high scoring, with the over hitting in 7 of the last 10.

Betting Trends

Timberwolves are 17-21 ATS overall but 8-10 on the road; they’ve covered in 4 of their last 5 as underdogs.

Cavaliers are 19-20 ATS, going 10-8 at home, but 2-3 ATS in their last 5.

The over has hit in 6 of Minnesota’s last 10 road games and 7 of Cleveland’s last 10 overall.

Game Odds

Minnesota Timberwolves            238.5

Cleveland Cavaliers                        – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 9, 2026

NFL Wild Card Injury Report – Friday, January 9, 2026

NFL Editor
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NFL Wild Card Injury Report – Friday, January 9, 2026

GREEN BAY PACKERS at CHICAGO BEARS on Saturday night
Green Bay Packers
Aaron Banks G Not injury related – resting player – Limited Participation —
Warren Brinson DT Foot Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Javon Bullard S Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Edgerrin Cooper LB Shoulder Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Matthew Golden WR Achilles Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Bo Melton CB Knee Did Not Participate —
Nick Niemann LB Pectoral Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Zach Tom T Back, Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Did Not Participate Questionable
Lukas Van Ness DE Foot Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Dontayvion Wicks WR Concussion Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Out*
John Williams G Back Limited Participation —
Malik Willis QB Right Shoulder, Hamstring – Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.
Chicago Bears
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson CB Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Kyler Gordon CB Groin Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation Questionable
Grady Jarrett DT Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Full Participation —
Braxton Jones T Knee Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation Questionable
Jaylon Jones CB Ankle Limited Participation Full Participation —
Nick McCloud CB Illness Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
D.J. Moore WR Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Rome Odunze WR Foot Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Amen Ogbongbemiga LB Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Ozzy Trapilo T Quadricep Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Joe Tryon DE Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Jahdae Walker WR Illness Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.


LOS ANGELES RAMS at CAROLINA PANTHERS on Saturday night
Los Angeles Rams
Davante Adams WR Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Kevin Dotson G Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Terrance Ferguson TE Hamstring Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Braden Fiske DE Ankle Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Tyler Higbee TE Ankle Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Quentin Lake S Elbow Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Josh Wallace CB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Jordan Whittington WR Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Darious Williams CB Not injury related – personal matter – Did Not Participate Full Participation —
Byron Young LB Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate —
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.
Carolina Panthers
Bobby Brown DT Concussion Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Derrick Brown DE Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Full Participation —
Claudin Cherelus LB Calf, Ankle Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Robert Hunt G Biceps Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation Questionable
A’Shawn Robinson DE Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate —
Robert Rochell CB Concussion Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Tershawn Wharton DT Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Chandler Zavala G Calf Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation Questionable
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.

BUFFALO BILLS at JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen QB Foot Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Terrel Bernard LB Calf Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Cole Bishop S Ribs Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Joey Bosa DE Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation Limited Participation —
Maxwell Hairston CB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Damar Hamlin S Pectoral Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Out
Ty Johnson RB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
DaQuan Jones DT Calf Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Dalton Kincaid TE Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Cameron Lewis S Toe Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Matt Milano LB Illness Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Josh Palmer WR Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Questionable
Jordan Poyer S Hamstring Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Matt Prater K Right Quadricep Did Not Participate Full Participation Did Not Participate Questionable
T.J. Sanders DT Shoulder Full Participation Full Participation —
Shaq Thompson LB Neck Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Walkthrough on Wednesday, the practice report is an estimation.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Montaric Brown CB Neck Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Jarrian Jones CB Illness Did Not Participate Limited Participation Full Participation —
Patrick Mekari G Back Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Greg Newsome CB Shoulder Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Danny Striggow DE Elbow, Ankle Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Cole Van Lanen T Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Walkthrough on Wednesday, the practice report is an estimation.

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Los Angeles Chargers
Keenan Allen WR Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Austin Deculus T Oblique Did Not Participate Limited Participation Full Participation Questionable
Bud Dupree DE Hamstring Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Tucker Fisk TE Ankle Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation Questionable
Omarion Hampton RB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Justin Herbert QB Left Hand Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Donte Jackson CB Ankle Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
KeAndre Lambert-Smith – WR Hamstring – Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Khalil Mack DE Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Elijah Molden S Hamstring Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Del’Shawn Phillips LB Hamstring Did Not Participate Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Jamaree Salyer G Hamstring Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Kendall Williamson S Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
New England Patriots
Alex Austin CB Wrist Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Kayshon Boutte WR Hamstring Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Garrett Bradbury C Illness Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Full Participation —
Jack Gibbens LB Elbow Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
TreVeyon Henderson RB Not injury related – personal matter – Did Not Participate —
Hunter Henry TE Not injury related – resting player – Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Anfernee Jennings LB Illness Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Harold Landry LB Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Vederian Lowe T Illness Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Full Participation —
Morgan Moses T Illness Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Thayer Munford T Knee Limited Participation Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Robert Spillane LB Ankle Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Khyiris Tonga DT Foot Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Out
Jared Wilson G Concussion Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
San Francisco 49ers
Ji’Ayir Brown S Rib Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Jacob Cowing WR Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation Questionable
Kalia Davis DT Knee Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Jordan Elliott DT Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Luke Gifford LB Quadricep Limited Participation Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Questionable
Renardo Green CB Ankle Limited Participation Questionable
Yetur Gross-Matos DE Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Did Not Participate —
George Kittle TE Ankle Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Christian McCaffrey RB Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Full Participation Full Participation —
Ricky Pearsall WR Knee, Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Questionable
Keion White DE Groin, Hamstring Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable
Trent Williams T Hamstring Did Not Participate Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Dee Winters LB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Questionable
Philadelphia Eagles
Grant Calcaterra TE Ankle Did Not Participate Limited Participation Full Participation —
Jalen Carter DT Hip Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Nakobe Dean LB Hamstring Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Landon Dickerson G Not injury related – resting player – Did Not Participate Full Participation —
Marcus Epps S Concussion Limited Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Dallas Goedert TE Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation Full Participation —
Lane Johnson T Foot Limited Participation Limited Participation Limited Participation Questionable
Azeez Ojulari LB Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation Questionable
Jaelan Phillips LB Ankle Full Participation Full Participation Full Participation —
Brett Toth G Concussion Did Not Participate Did Not Participate Limited Participation Questionable

HOUSTON TEXANS at PITTSBURGH STEELERS on Monday night
Houston Texans
Denico Autry DE Knee Did Not Participate Limited Participation —
Austin Brinkman LS Knee Full Participation Full Participation —
Trenton Brown T Ankle, Knee Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Ajani Carter CB Hamstring Full Participation Full Participation —
Aireontae Ersery T Thumb Full Participation Full Participation —
Jamal Hill LB Calf Limited Participation Full Participation —
Tytus Howard T Ankle Did Not Participate Limited Participation —
Jawhar Jordan RB Ankle Did Not Participate Did Not Participate —
Kamari Lassiter CB Ankle, Knee Did Not Participate Limited Participation —
Sheldon Rankins DT Elbow Limited Participation Full Participation —
Jaylen Reed S Forearm Limited Participation Full Participation —
Derek Stingley CB Oblique Limited Participation Full Participation —
Pittsburgh Steelers
Cameron Heyward DT Not injury related – resting player – Limited Participation Limited Participation —
Christian Kuntz LS Knee Full Participation Full Participation —
Isaiahh Loudermilk DT Ankle Limited Participation —
Aaron Rodgers QB Left Wrist Full Participation Full Participation —
Ben Skowronek WR Hand Full Participation Full Participation —
Jonnu Smith TE Glute Limited Participation —
Jaylen Warren RB Illness Did Not Participate Full Participation —
T.J. Watt LB Lung Full Participation Full Participation

NFL team transactions report for Friday, January 9, 2026

NFL Editor
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NFL team transactions report for Friday, January 9, 2026

ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS
ACTIVATIONS
CAROLINA
Hunt, Robert G Louisiana-Lafayette – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Hampton, Nick LB Appalachian State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Ingle, Tanner DB North Carolina State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)

RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS
CINCINNATI
Meyers, Dohnte WR Delta State – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
CLEVELAND
Constantinou, Nik P Texas A&M – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Wooden, Isaiah WR Southern Utah – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
MIAMI
Cooper, Keith DT Houston – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Daniels, Braeden G Utah – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Turner, Cole TE Nevada – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
Warren, Carter T Pittsburgh – Free Agent Signing – Reserve/Future
PITTSBURGH
Loudermilk, Isaiahh DT Wisconsin – Status Changed to Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
(Also see OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS)

PRACTICE SQUAD TRANSACTIONS
CONTRACTS TERMINATED BY CLUB
MIAMI
Barrow, Simeon DT Miami
Henderson, Jack DB Minnesota
Myarick, Chris TE Temple
Telfort, Kadeem T Alabama-Birmingham

OTHER TRANSACTION/COMMENTS
RETURNED TO PRACTICE
PITTSBURGH
Loudermilk, Isaiahh DT Wisconsin – Remains on Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return

Texas Rangers Acquire RHP Zak Kent via Waiver Claim from St. Louis

MLB Editor
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Texas Rangers Acquire RHP Zak Kent via Waiver Claim from St. Louis

Former Texas 2019 draft selection made Major League debut with Cleveland in 2025

Arlington, Texas — The Texas Rangers today announced that the club has acquired right-handed pitcher Zak Kent from the St. Louis Cardinals via waiver claim.

Kent, 27, was acquired by St. Louis via waiver claim from the Cleveland Guardians on December 5 before being designated for assignment by the Cardinals on January 6. He made his Major League debut with Cleveland over 12 relief appearances in 2025, going 1-0 with a 4.58 ERA (9 ER/17.2 IP), 16 strikeouts, and 8 walks. Kent also appeared in 34 games with the Guardians’ Triple-A Columbus affiliate last season, posting a 2.84 ERA (12 ER/38.0 IP) that paced the Clippers’ staff (min. 15.0 IP).

The right-hander embarks on his second stint in the Rangers organization after spending the first four seasons of his professional career (2019, 2021-23) with Texas minor league affiliates. During his time in the Rangers chain, Kent logged a 9-12 record, 4.07 ERA (117 ER/258.2 IP), 288 strikeouts, and a .243 opponent batting average in 68 games/59 starts, ranking among Rangers farmhands in that span (min. 200.0 IP) in strikeout to walk ratio (5th, 3.31), innings (6th), and ground ball rate (6th, 45.4%). A native of Henrico, Va., Kent was originally selected by Texas in the 9th round of the 2019 MLB Draft from the Virginia Military Institute.

With today’s transaction, the Rangers have 40 players on the club’s Major League roster.

Free agent outfielder Max Kepler disciplined

MLB Editor
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Free agent outfielder Max Kepler disciplined

The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball announced today that free agent outfielder Max Kepler has received an 80-game suspension after testing positive for Epitrenbolone, a performance enhancing substance, in violation of Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

New York Yankees complete single roster transaction

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New York Yankees complete single roster transaction

Earlier today, the Yankees claimed RHP Kaleb Ort off waivers from the Houston Astros.

Ort, 33, made 49 relief appearances with the Astros in 2025, going 2-2 with one save and a 4.89 ERA (46.0IP, 35H, 26R/25ER, 27BB, 49K, 8HR). He posted career highs in appearances, innings pitched and strikeouts. Ort allowed only three of his 19 inherited runners to score, posting a 15.8% inherited runners scored percentage. He also limited right-handed batters to a .188/.311/.317 (19-for-101) slash line. Ort was designated for assignment by Houston on January 2, 2026.

Over parts of five Major League seasons with the Boston Red Sox (2021-23) and Houston (2024-25), Ort has gone 5-7 with two saves and a 5.00 ERA (122.1IP, 114H, 75R/68ER, 56BB, 126K, 25HR) in 118 games (two starts). The Grand Rapids, Mich., native was originally signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks as a non-drafted free agent on September 23, 2016. He was released by Arizona on March 21, 2017, and was signed by the Yankees to a minor league contract on May 16, 2017. Ort was selected by Boston in Round 2 of the Triple-A Phase of the 2020 Rule 5 Draft. He was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Mariners on October 13, 2023, the Miami Marlins on December 1, 2023 and the Philadelphia Phillies on February 13, 2024. Ort was acquired by the Baltimore Orioles from Philadelphia in exchange for cash considerations on February 19, 2024. He was then claimed off waivers by the Houston Astros on May 28, 2024.

New York City FC Signs Goalkeeper Mac Learned to a First Team Contract

MLS Editor
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New York City FC Signs Goalkeeper Mac Learned to a First Team Contract

NEW YORK – New York City FC today announced that it has signed Goalkeeper Mac Learned to a First Team contract for the 2026 season, with options for June 2027 and the 2027–2028 and 2028–2029 seasons. 

Learned becomes the sixth player to sign a First Team contract from MLS NEXT Pro affiliate New York City FC II, as well as the 227th player league-wide to sign a First Team contract from MLS NEXT Pro. The Goalkeeper made his MLS NEXT Pro debut in March 2025, making two saves in a clean sheet victory over Columbus Crew 2. 

After taking part in preseason with the First Team last January, Learned signed with New York City FC II ahead of the 2025 season. That year, the Goalkeeper started 14 matches for the Pigeons, accumulating 1,260 minutes, recording one clean sheet, and registering a 65% save percentage. 

“Mac signing a contract with the First Team speaks volumes about New York City’s player pathway through MLS NEXT Pro and our commitment to developing players at all stages of their careers,” said Sporting Director Todd Dunivant. “Under the direction of Assistant Coach Rob Vartughian, the Club has fostered a healthy and competitive environment for our goalkeepers. We’re excited for Mac to join Matt Freese, Tomás Romero, and Greg Ranjitsingh as we continue to strengthen the goalkeeper position.” 

Prior to joining New York City FC II, Learned competed for the Men’s Soccer team at Sacramento State University. As a Hornet, the California native started 44 of 47 appearances, logging 3,869 minutes over four seasons and concluding his collegiate career with a 73.4% save percentage. 

“It means the world to me to sign a First Team contract with New York City FC,” said Goalkeeper Mac Learned. “For me, it was about grinding and proving myself in a professional environment. Competing in MLS NEXT Pro with New York City FC II helped prepare me for this opportunity, and I’m incredibly grateful for the role everyone played in helping me reach this point in my career. I look forward to continuing to learn and develop as a player and helping the Club achieve its goals.” 

Transaction: New York City FC Signs Goalkeeper Mac Learned to a First-Team Contract for the 2026 season, with options for June 2027 and for the 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 seasons.

Name: Mac Learned 

Position: Goalkeeper 

Height: 6’4”  

Weight: 190  

Date of Birth: 8/5/2002  

Age: 23 

Hometown: Lincoln, California

NFL Game Preview: Los Angeles Rams (12-5) vs. Carolina Panthers (8-9)

NFL Editor
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NFL Game Preview: Los Angeles Rams (12-5) vs. Carolina Panthers (8-9)

The NFC Wild Card round opens with a surprising matchup between the No. 5 seed Los Angeles Rams and the No. 4 seed Carolina Panthers, who clinched the NFC South despite a losing record in a weak division. The Rams, boasting one of the league’s top offenses, seek revenge after a regular-season upset loss to Carolina, while the Panthers aim to pull off another shocker in their first playoff appearance since 2017. This game could hinge on Los Angeles’ high-powered attack against Carolina’s resilient defense in what might be a rainy affair. Below is a detailed breakdown.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. This outdoor venue, home to the Panthers since 1996, has a capacity of approximately 74,867 and features a natural grass surface, known for its energetic crowd that could boost the underdog hosts.

Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 PM ET (1:30 PM PT).

Broadcast: The game will be broadcast on FOX: Joe Davis, Greg Olsen, Pam Oliver (field reporter), Kristina Pink (field reporter)

Westwood One: Jason Benetti, Ryan Leaf

Streaming available on Fubo. Note: While the query referenced January 11, confirmed NFL scheduling places this matchup on January 10 as part of Wild Card Saturday.

Weather Updates

Forecasts for Charlotte on game day indicate mild but potentially wet conditions. Expect highs around 50-66°F during the afternoon, with a 57% chance of precipitation, possibly showers or light rain. Winds will be around 9 mph, with nighttime lows dropping to 48°F. These conditions could lead to a slick field, favoring run-heavy offenses and potentially increasing fumbles, while limiting explosive passing plays.

world-weather.info +2

Check for updates closer to kickoff, as Southeastern weather can change.

Injury Report

Both teams are relatively healthy entering the playoffs, but key absences could impact the lines. Updates from January 8, 2026 practice reports:

Los Angeles Rams:

G Kevin Dotson (Ankle): Ruled out – Significant loss for the interior line.

therams.com +1

WR Jordan Whittington (Knee): Ruled out.

TE Terrance Ferguson: Questionable.

CB Josh Wallace (Ankle): Questionable.

therams.com +1

S Quentin Lake and WR Davante Adams: Expected to return and play.

Overall: The Rams have ruled out two starters but expect reinforcements; focus on OL depth against Carolina’s pass rush.

Carolina Panthers:

G Robert Hunt (Biceps): Questionable – Remains on IR, key for run blocking.

panthers.com +1

WR David Moore (Elbow): Questionable, also on IR.

CB C.J. Gardner-Johnson, LB Amen Ogbongbemiga, DT Joe Tyron: Recently ruled out but cleared concussion protocol for some; team nearly fully healthy.

Overall: Carolina is as healthy as possible for their playoff return, with only two questionable on the final report; good news after clearing protocols.

Player Matchups

This game features several critical battles, particularly in the trenches and secondary, where weather could amplify physical play:

Rams RBs Kyren Williams and Blake Corum vs. Panthers Run Defense: Los Angeles’ duo combined for over 150 yards in their last meeting; Carolina must contain them to force passing in potential rain.

QB Matthew Stafford (Rams) vs. QB Bryce Young (Panthers): Stafford’s experience faces Young’s aggressive approach that worked in their Week 13 upset, where Young went 3-for-3 on fourth downs with two TDs.

CB Emmanuel Forbes Jr. (Panthers) vs. WRs Jalen Coker/Tetairoa McMillan (Rams): Carolina’s secondary will test Los Angeles’ big-play threats, especially after exploiting mismatches in the regular season.

Rams Pass Rush vs. Panthers Offensive Line: Los Angeles must pressure Young to disrupt Carolina’s rhythm, given the Panthers’ success in protecting during their upset win.

Turnover Battle: Both teams emphasize ball security; the Rams’ opportunistic defense could capitalize on Young’s youth in high stakes.

These matchups emphasize revenge and physicality in a potential upset scenario.

Recent Team Forms

Rams: Finished 12-5 under Sean McVay, clinching a third straight winning season with a Week 12 blowout. They went 8-2 in their last 10, boasting the league’s top offense (518 points) but lost their finale; strong road form at 5-4.

Panthers: Ended 8-9, improving from 5-12 with a Week 11 OT win sparking a surge to the playoffs after eight years. They finished 5-5 in their last 10, with a solid home streak (5 straight wins as underdogs) and balanced attack.

Series History

The Panthers lead the all-time series 13-10 in 23 meetings (14-10 including playoffs), with Carolina winning 7 of the last 10. Notable: Panthers upset the Rams in Week 13 this season and hold a 1-0 playoff edge from 2003. Los Angeles seeks to reverse recent trends where Carolina has dominated at home (6-

Betting Trends

Rams: 12-5 ATS overall; 3-0 ATS as 10.5+ favorites this season; 11-6 ATS as underdogs but strong on road.

Panthers: 9-8 ATS; 5 straight home wins as underdogs; unders in 6 of last 9 games.

Overall: Home underdogs in playoffs are 9-4 SU/11-2 ATS since 2016; overs 6-3 in Rams’ last 9, but head-to-head trends low-scoring.

RAMS:

• RAMS qualified for playoffs for the 7th time in 9 seasons under HC Sean McVay, who previously led team to SB LVI win (2021 season) & SB LIII appearance (2018 season). • HC SEAN MCVAY has 100 career wins as HC, 1 of 3 to do so all-time prior to turning 40. • QB MATTHEW STAFFORD led NFL with 4,707 pass yards & career-high 46 TD passes in 2025, his 10th-career season with 4,000+ pass yards & 20+ TD passes, 1 of 7 QBs in NFL history to do so. Has 2,996 pass yards & 22 TDs (19 pass, 3 rush) with 102.3 rating in 10 career postseason starts. Has 2+ TD passes in each of his 7 playoff starts with LAR. Passed for 243 yards & 2 TDs in Week 13 meeting. Made 4th-career Pro Bowl in 2025. • RB KYREN WILLIAMS ranked 10th with career-high 1,533 scrimmage yards in 2025. Had 80+ scrimmage yards in his last 5 reg. season games. Had 72 rush yards & TD in Week 13 meeting. Aims for 3rd in row in playoffs with 90+ scrimmage yards. • RB PUKA NACUA led NFL with 129 receptions, ranked 2nd with career-high 1,715 rec. yards & tied-6th with 10 TD catches this season & was 1 of 3 (Jaxon Smith-Njigba & Ja’Marr Chase) with 90+ rec. yards in 9+ games this season. Has 322 rec. yards (107.3 yards per game) in 3 career postseason starts. Had 72 rec. yards in Week 13 meeting. Made 2nd-career Pro Bowl in 2025. • WR DAVANTE ADAMS led NFL with 14 TD catches in 2025. Has 910 rec. yards & 8 TD catches in 11 career playoff games (w/ GB). • LB NATE LANDMAN had 8 tackles in Week 13 meeting & had 5+ tackles in 3 of his last 4 reg. season games. Aims for 1st career playoff appearance. • LB BYRON YOUNG ranked tied-8th with career-high 12 sacks this season. Had 8 tackles & sack in Week 13 meeting. Has TFL in 2 of his past 3 playoff games. Made 1st-career Pro Bowl in 2025. • DE KOBIE TURNER aims for 4th in row in playoffs with 0.5+ sack. • CB EMMANUEL FORBES ranked tied-3rd with 18 PD this season. Had PD in 11 games in 2025, 1 of 6 players to do so. • S KAM CURL had career-high 122 tackles this season.

PANTHERS NOTES:

• PANTHERS won NFC South division title for 1st time since 2015 & after finishing tied for last in 2024. Became 10th team in past 20 seasons (2006-25) to win division title after beginning 1-3. • QB BRYCE YOUNG had career-high 3,011 pass yards in 2025. Had TD pass in 6 of his last 7 reg. season games & 90+ passer rating in 4 of his last 5. Had 206 pass yards & 3 TDs in Week 13 meeting. Can make 1st career playoff start. • RB RICO DOWDLE had career-high 1,373 scrimmage yards (1,076 rush, 297 rec.) & had 7 TDs in 2025, his 2nd consecutive season with 1,000+ rush yards. Is 1 of 2 (Bijan Robinson) with 225+ scrimmage yards in 2 games this season. Had 79 scrimmage yards in Week 13 meeting. • WR TETAIROA MCMILLAN led all rookies with 1,014 rec. yards & 7 TDs in 2025 & ranked 3rd with 70 receptions. Was 1 of 2 rookies (Emeka Egbuka) with 85+ rec. yards in 4 games this season. Had TD catch in 2 of his last 3 reg. season games at home. Had TD catch in Week 13 meeting. • LB CHRISTIAN ROZEBOOM had 122 tackles in 2025, his 2nd consecutive season with 120+ tackles & had INT & 1st career FF & FR. Aims for 3rd in row in playoffs with 7+ tackles. Had 211 tackles, sack, TFL & 2 INT w/ Lar (2020-24). • DT DERRICK BROWN had career-high 5 sacks in 2025. Had sack & FF in Week 13 meeting. Had 5+ tackles in last 3 reg. season games. • CB MIKE JACKSON led NFL with season-high 19 PD in 2025, his 2nd consecutive season with 15+ PD, 1 of 2 (Derek Stingley) to do so. Ranked tied-8th with 4 INTs this season. Had PD in 7 of his last 8 reg. season games. Had 5 tackles & PD in only career playoff game (1/14/23 vs. SF w/ Sea.) Had INT-TD in Week 13 meeting. • CB JAYCEE HORN ranked tied-2nd with career-high 5 INTs this season. Made 2ndcareer Pro Bowl in 2025. • S NICK SCOTT had 7+ tackles in last 7 reg. season games. Had 9 tackles & INT in Week 13 meeting. Had 140 tackles, 2 FFs, 4 INTs & 9 PD & won SB LVI w/ LAR (2019-22). • S TRE’VON MOEHRIG had 103 tackles & career-high 14 TFL this season, his 2nd straight season with 100+ tackles. Aims for 3rd in row with sack.

Game Odds

Los Angeles Rams            – 10.5

Carolina Panthers            45.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, January 9, 2026

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