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NBA Game Preview: Atlanta Hawks (17-20) vs. Toronto Raptors (21-15)

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NBA Game Preview: Atlanta Hawks (17-20) vs. Toronto Raptors (21-15)

The Atlanta Hawks (17-20, 10th in Eastern Conference) face the Toronto Raptors (21-15, 4th in Eastern Conference) in an Eastern Conference matchup, marking their second meeting in three days after Toronto’s dominant 134-117 victory on January 3. The Hawks, struggling with injuries and inconsistency, seek revenge on the road, while the Raptors aim to extend their home winning streak and solidify their playoff positioning. This game could hinge on Toronto’s perimeter defense against Atlanta’s adjusted lineup without star point guard Trae Young, with rebounding and three-point shooting likely to play key roles.

Venue Location

Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This 19,800-capacity venue has been the Raptors’ home since 1999, known for its vibrant atmosphere and modern facilities.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE) for Hawks fans, TSN for Raptors viewers, and available on NBA League Pass.

Injury Report

Injuries continue to plague the Hawks, while the Raptors enter relatively healthy, giving them a potential edge in depth and physicality.

Atlanta Hawks: Point guard Trae Young is out with a right quadriceps contusion, missing his fifth straight game and severely impacting Atlanta’s offense and playmaking. Forward N’Faly Dante is out with a right knee injury (torn meniscus or similar, potentially season-ending). Shooting guard Luke Kennard is questionable with back soreness, which could limit bench shooting if he sits. These absences force reliance on Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson for ball-handling and scoring.

Toronto Raptors: The Raptors have just one player on the injury report, with no major absences listed as of January 4. Center Jakob Poeltl was mentioned in prior previews but appears available, providing a boost in the paint. Overall, Toronto’s lineup is intact, allowing them to maintain their strong defensive identity.

Player Matchups

With Young sidelined, the matchups shift toward Atlanta’s wings and bigs against Toronto’s versatile core, emphasizing physicality in the paint and perimeter defense.

Dyson Daniels (Atlanta) vs. Immanuel Quickley (Toronto): Daniels steps into the starting point guard role, bringing defensive tenacity but limited scoring; he’ll face Quickley’s quickness and three-point shooting (averaging 6.3 assists). Quickley’s ability to exploit screens could create open looks if Daniels overcommits.

Jalen Johnson (Atlanta) vs. Scottie Barnes (Toronto): Johnson’s athleticism (24 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 8.5 APG recently) matches up against Barnes’ all-around game. This forward battle could decide rebounding, with both players excelling in transition.

Zaccharie Risacher (Atlanta) vs. RJ Barrett (Toronto): Risacher, Atlanta’s rookie wing, brings defensive potential against Barrett’s scoring volume (29 PPG season-high recently). Barrett’s drives will test Risacher’s footwork.

Clint Capela (Atlanta) vs. Jakob Poeltl (Toronto): Capela’s rim protection and rebounding clash with Poeltl’s interior presence. If Poeltl dominates the glass, Toronto could control second-chance points.

These matchups favor Toronto’s depth, but Atlanta’s youth could spark fast breaks if they force turnovers.

Atlanta is 11-9 on the road, while Toronto boasts a strong 12-7 home record.

Recent Team Forms

Toronto enters with momentum, while Atlanta has been inconsistent but competitive on the road.

Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks are 4-6 in their last 10 games, showing flashes but struggling offensively without Young. They lost 117-134 to Toronto on January 3 and fell 114-121 to Orlando on January 2, highlighting defensive issues (allowing 120+ PPG in losses). Atlanta’s three-point shooting has been middling, but their road form (11-9) includes recent gritty wins; however, they’ve hit the under in 6 of their last 8 away games.

Toronto Raptors: The Raptors are 6-4 in their last 10, riding a hot streak with wins like 134-117 over Atlanta on January 3 (RJ Barrett’s 29 points) and 112-101 at Cleveland earlier. Their offense averages 110.8 PPG recently, bolstered by strong home play (12-7), but defense ranks mid-pack. Toronto’s games have gone over in 7 of their last 10, especially at home.

Series History
The Raptors hold a slight all-time edge at 57-54 over 111 regular-season games. In the last 10 meetings, Toronto is 6-4, including a 134-117 win on January 3 and victories in the first two games of the 2025-26 season (e.g., 139-121 on October 22). Recent games trend high-scoring, with overs hitting in 6 of the last 10 and an average total of 230+ points; seven were decided by double digits, favoring the home team.

Betting Trends

Atlanta Hawks Trends: 19-18 ATS overall, with a 20-17 O/U record. They’ve covered in 4 of their last 6 road games but are 2-8 ATS without Young this season. Hawks games trend under on the road (55% under the total), but overs have hit in 5 of their last 7 vs. Toronto.

Toronto Raptors Trends: 20-16 ATS, with overs in 18 of 36 games. They’re 3-2 ATS in their last 5 and 14-5 SU at home, but 4-6 ATS as favorites of -3 or less. Raptors have covered in 7 of their last 10 vs. Atlanta, with home overs in 8 of 19 (42.1%).

Game Odds

Atlanta Hawks                   233.5

Toronto Raptors               – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, January 4, 2026

NBA Game Preview: Chicago Bulls (12-18) vs. Boston Celtics (22-12)

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NBA Game Preview: Chicago Bulls (12-18) vs. Boston Celtics (22-12)

The Chicago Bulls (17-18) face the Boston Celtics (22-12) in an Eastern Conference matchup as the Bulls look to extend their four-game road winning streak against a Celtics team riding a three-game win streak. Chicago, sitting 11th in the East, has shown resilience on the road despite inconsistencies, while Boston, second in the East, remains a title contender even without key players. Injuries loom large, particularly for the Celtics, potentially opening the door for Chicago’s balanced attack to exploit mismatches in transition and rebounding.

Venue Location

TD Garden, Boston, MA. This 19,163-capacity arena has been the Celtics’ home since 1995, renowned for its passionate fans and historic banners.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on NBA TV, NBA League Pass, and local networks including NBC Sports Boston for Celtics fans and NBC Sports Chicago for Bulls viewers.

Injury Report

Injuries could significantly impact both teams, with Boston dealing with a major absence and Chicago missing depth pieces.

Chicago Bulls: Forward Zach Collins is out with a right first toe sprain. Forward Noa Essengue is out for the season following left shoulder surgery. Guard Emanuel Miller is out with a hamstring injury, and center Leo Olbrich is out with an ankle injury. Guard Coby White was recently sidelined but appears available after playing in recent games. These absences strain Chicago’s frontcourt depth, forcing reliance on Nikola Vucevic and younger players like Matas Buzelis.

Boston Celtics: Forward Jayson Tatum is out with a right Achilles repair, a significant blow to their scoring and leadership; he’s not ruled out for the season but will miss this game. Guards Ron Harper Jr. and Max Shulga are out on G League assignments. The Celtics are otherwise healthy, but Tatum’s absence shifts more responsibility to Jaylen Brown and the supporting cast.

Player Matchups

Without Tatum, this game shifts focus to perimeter battles and interior control, with Boston’s depth tested against Chicago’s youth and athleticism.

Josh Giddey (Chicago) vs. Derrick White (Boston): Giddey’s playmaking (averaging 7+ assists) and rebounding will challenge White’s defensive versatility and three-point shooting. White’s ability to disrupt passing lanes could limit Giddey’s vision.

Nikola Vucevic (Chicago) vs. Al Horford/Kristaps Porzingis (Boston): Vucevic’s double-double potential (20+ PPG, 10+ RPG) tests Boston’s big-man rotation. Porzingis’ rim protection and spacing could pull Vucevic out of the paint.

Matas Buzelis (Chicago) vs. Jaylen Brown (Boston): Buzelis, fresh off a 21-point game, brings athleticism against Brown’s scoring prowess (career-high 50 points recently). Brown’s explosiveness could exploit mismatches.

Ayo Dosunmu (Chicago) vs. Jrue Holiday (Boston): Dosunmu’s speed in transition meets Holiday’s elite defense, potentially deciding turnover battles and fast-break points.

These matchups highlight Chicago’s rebounding edge versus Boston’s perimeter efficiency, with special teams (three-point shooting) likely pivotal.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams have shown flashes, but Boston enters with hotter momentum.

Chicago Bulls: The Bulls are 5-5 in their last 10 games, splitting recent home contests with a 121-114 win over the Orlando Magic on January 2 (led by Matas Buzelis’ 21 points) and a 99-112 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on January 3. They’re on a four-game road win streak, averaging 115 PPG offensively but struggling defensively (allowing 118+ in losses). Chicago’s three-point shooting has improved, but turnovers remain an issue.

Boston Celtics: The Celtics are 7-3 in their last 10, on a three-game win streak including a 146-115 blowout over the LA Clippers on January 3 (Jaylen Brown scored 50) and a 120-106 victory against the Sacramento Kings on January 1. Their offense has exploded (130+ PPG in wins), but defense has been inconsistent without Tatum. Boston’s home games trend high-scoring lately.

Series History

The Celtics hold a 137-110 all-time regular-season edge over the Bulls, with a 155-115 overall record including playoffs. In the last 10 meetings, Boston is 6-4, winning the most recent two in December 2025: 123-98 on December 21 and 117-108 on December 19. Games have been competitive lately, with six of the last 10 decided by single digits and overs hitting in 60% of contests.

Betting Trends

Chicago Bulls Trends: 18-17 ATS overall, with a 20-15 O/U record. They’ve covered in four straight road games and are 6-4 ATS as underdogs of +10 or more. Bulls games trend under on the road (55% under the total), but overs hit in five of their last seven vs. Boston.

Boston Celtics Trends: 19-15 ATS, with overs in 18 of 34 games. They’re 4-1 SU in their last five but 2-3 ATS without Tatum this season. Celtics home games hit the over in six of their last eight, and they’ve covered in seven of their last 10 vs. Chicago.

Game Odds

Chicago Bulls                     235.5

Boston Celtics                   – 11.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, January 4, 2026

NBA Game Preview: New York Knicks (23-12) vs. Detroit Pistons (26-9)

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NBA Game Preview: New York Knicks (23-12) vs. Detroit Pistons (26-9)

The New York Knicks (23-12, 2nd in Atlantic Division) visit the Detroit Pistons (26-9, 1st in Central Division) in an Eastern Conference matchup featuring two playoff contenders. The Knicks, coming off back-to-back losses, aim to regain momentum on the road against a surging Pistons squad that has emerged as one of the league’s top teams this season. With key injuries impacting Detroit’s frontcourt, this game could be decided by guard play and three-point shooting, pitting New York’s balanced attack against Detroit’s defensive prowess at home.

Venue Location

Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI. This 20,332-capacity venue has been the Pistons’ home since 2017, known for its modern design and energetic crowds during high-profile games.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on Peacock, NBA League Pass, and local networks including MSG for Knicks fans and Bally Sports Detroit for Pistons viewers.

Injury Report

Injuries could play a significant role, particularly for the Pistons, who are missing key frontcourt pieces.

New York Knicks: Josh Hart is out with a right ankle sprain, sidelining a key contributor to rebounding and defense. Landry Shamet is out with a right shoulder sprain, affecting bench scoring depth. The Knicks are otherwise healthy, with no other major absences reported as of January 4.

Detroit Pistons: Jalen Duren is out with a right ankle sprain and will be re-evaluated in at least a week, a major blow to their interior defense and rebounding. Tobias Harris is out with a left hip sprain, expected to be re-evaluated in two weeks, further depleting frontcourt options. The Pistons may rely on Isaiah Stewart and backups to fill the void.

Player Matchups

This matchup highlights battles between elite guards and adjusted frontcourts due to injuries, with perimeter shooting and transition play likely to decide the outcome.

Jalen Brunson (New York) vs. Cade Cunningham (Detroit): Brunson, averaging around 25 PPG with efficient scoring, will test Cunningham’s defensive length. Cunningham, the Pistons’ leader in points (26.7 PPG), assists (9.6), and rebounds (6.3), could exploit mismatches in pick-and-rolls.

Karl-Anthony Towns (New York) vs. Isaiah Stewart (Detroit): With Duren out, Stewart steps up against Towns’ outside shooting and post game. Towns’ versatility could pull Stewart away from the rim, opening driving lanes for the Knicks.

Mikal Bridges (New York) vs. Ausar Thompson (Detroit): Bridges’ two-way wing play matches up against Thompson’s athleticism and defense. This could be a low-scoring duel, with both players key to containing slashers.

OG Anunoby (New York) vs. Tim Hardaway Jr. (Detroit): Anunoby’s elite defense will aim to limit Hardaway’s three-point shooting, especially with Harris sidelined.

Goaltending isn’t applicable here, but bench units will be crucial given the injuries.

New York is 10-7 on the road, while Detroit boasts a 14-3 home record.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams have been competitive, but Detroit enters with stronger momentum.

New York Knicks: The Knicks are 5-5 in their last 10 games, struggling recently with back-to-back losses: 119-130 to the Philadelphia 76ers on January 3 and 99-111 to the Atlanta Hawks on January 2. Their offense has averaged 119.1 PPG in the last 10, but defense has slipped, allowing high scores. New York’s power forward depth has been key, but road games have seen unders in 6 of their last 8.

Detroit Pistons: The Pistons are 8-2 in their last 10 games, including a 114-110 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 4 and a loss to the Miami Heat (112-118) on January 1. They’ve been dominant at home, with strong perimeter defense and efficient scoring led by Cunningham. Detroit’s games have trended over in 7 of their last 10, but injuries could slow their pace.

Series History

The Knicks hold a commanding all-time edge at 222-179 over 401 regular-season games. In the last 20 meetings, New York is 15-5 against Detroit, including wins in 7 of the last 10. The most recent game (date not specified in recent history, but trends favor Knicks) saw close contests, with 6 of the last 10 decided by single digits and overs hitting in 55% of matchups.

Betting Trends

New York Knicks Trends: 20-15 ATS overall, with a 18-17 O/U record. They’ve failed to cover in 3 of their last 5 road games but are 6-4 SU in their last 10 against Central Division teams. Knicks games trend under on the road (60% under the total).

Detroit Pistons Trends: 22-13 ATS, with overs in 20 of 35 games. They’re 2-3 SU in their last 5 but 14-3 SU at home this season. Pistons have covered in only 1 of their last 5 as underdogs, and home games hit the over in 7 of 10.

Game Odds

New York Knicks               – 2.5

Detroit Pistons                 232.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, January 4, 2026

Calgary Flames’ Beecher Suspended One Game for Roughing

NHL Editor
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Calgary Flames’ Beecher Suspended One Game for Roughing

NEW YORK – Calgary Flames forward John Beecher has been suspended for one game, without pay, for roughing Nashville Predators forward Michael McCarron during NHL Game No. 654 in Calgary on Saturday, Jan. 3, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today.

The incident occurred at 13:15 of the first period. Beecher was assessed a minor penalty for roughing and a 10-minute misconduct.

Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and, based on his average annual salary, Beecher will forfeit $4,687.50. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

Winnipeg Jets’ Stanley Suspended One Game for Roughing

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Winnipeg Jets’ Stanley Suspended One Game for Roughing

NEW YORK – Winnipeg Jets defenseman Logan Stanley has been suspended for one game, without pay, for roughing Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk during NHL Game No. 650 in Ottawa on Saturday, Jan. 3, the National Hockey League’s Department of Player Safety announced today.

The incident occurred at 12:06 of the second period. Stanley was assessed a minor penalty for roughing.

Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement and, based on his average annual salary, Stanley will forfeit $6,510.42. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

NHL Morning Skate – January 5, 2026

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NHL Morning Skate – January 5, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Jan. 5, 2026

* Sidney Crosby factored on the game-tying goal in the final seconds of regulation and scored the winner in overtime to help the Penguins rally past the Blue Jackets. He joined rare company in NHL history in the process with his 20th career three-goal comeback win.


* Tyler Bertuzzi lifted the Blackhawks to victory in overtime with his second hat trick of the season. He is one of five players with multiple three-goal performances this season, including teammate Connor Bedard (2x).


* The Red Wings and Senators headline the latest edition of Prime Monday Night Hockey as Patrick Kane closes in on the 500-goal milestone and the most points by a U.S.-born skater in NHL history.
 

CROSBY, PENGUINS EXTEND WIN STREAK WITH THREE-GOAL RALLY IN COLUMBUS

Zach Werenski (1-1—2) helped the Blue Jackets build a 4-1 lead, but Sidney Crosby (1-1—2) assisted on the game-tying goal with 14 seconds remaining in regulation and later scored the winning tally in overtime to lift the Penguins (20-12-9, 49 points) to their fifth straight victory – tied for the most among all teams since the NHL returned from the holiday break. Crosby, who captured his 20th career three-goal comeback win, propelled his club to the NHL’s 13th such win in 2025-26.

* Crosby, whose 508 career multi-point games sit three back of tying Gordie Howe (511) for the fifth most in NHL history, factored on a game-tying goal in the third period for the 107th time and tied Jaromir Jagr for the third most in League history, behind Wayne Gretzky (135) and Mark Messier (112). 

* The Penguins captain, also the first player in NHL history to reach 50 career overtime points (25-25—50), netted his 112th career game-winning goal (including playoffs) and tied Guy Lafleur for 10th place on the NHL’s all-time list. Gretzky (115) sits in ninth.

BERTUZZI’S SECOND HAT TRICK OF 2025-26 LIFTS BLACKHAWKS PAST GOLDEN KNIGHTS

Tyler Bertuzzi scored both of Chicago’s goals in regulation and then completed his second hat trick of the season in overtime as the Blackhawks (17-18-7, 41 points) captured their third straight win. Chicago’s four hat tricks this season (also Connor Bedard: 2) are tied with Utah for the most among all teams.

* Bertuzzibecame the sixth Blackhawks player to complete a hat trick with an overtime goal and first since Jonathan Toews (Oct. 6, 2018). The others: Jeff Hamilton (Dec. 2, 2006), Tyler Arnason (March 19, 2004), Eric Daze (Dec. 31, 2001) and Curt Fraser (Feb. 13, 1986).

* Bertuzzi leads the Blackhawks with 22 goals this season and is one shy of matching his total from 2024-25 (23-23—46). Did you know? Chicago is one of three Original Six franchises Bertuzzi has registered a 20-goal campaign with, alongside Detroit (3x) and Toronto (21 in 2023-24). He is one of three players in NHL history with at least one 20-goal season with three Original Six franchises, alongside Roy Conacher and Frank Mahovlich.

DEFENSEMEN DELIVER IN #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES

Lane Hutson (1-1—2) and Zach Werenski (1-1—2) found the score sheet multiple times as part of the NHL’s five-game Sunday. More storylines from all five closely contested outings can be found in the latest edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates.

* Hutson collected his 97th career assist and later scored his first career overtime goal to help the Canadiens (23-13-6, 52 points) leapfrog the idle Red Wings (24-15-4, 52 points) for second in the Atlantic Division. Hutson (21 years, 324 days) became the third-youngest defenseman in Canadiens history to score an overtime goal, behind only P.K. Subban (21 years, 249 days on Jan. 17, 2011) and Kaiden Guhle (21 years, 297 days on Nov. 11, 2023).


* Werenski (1-1—2), who became the first player in franchise history to reach 300 career assists, recorded multiple points in his fifth consecutive game and matched Artemi Panarin (5 GP in 2017-18) for the longest run in Blue Jackets history; Cale Makar (5 GP in 2023-24) is the last defenseman to achieve this feat while Mike Green (6 GP in 2008-09) was the last with a longer stretch.

QUICK CLICKS


* NHL EDGE stats behind Darren Raddysh’s breakout season for Lightning

* John Beecher suspended one game for actions in Flames game

* Logan Stanley suspended one game for actions in Jets game

* NFL legend Tom Brady shouts out Matthew Schaefer as future star in NHL
* Matthew Tkachuk could return from injury to Panthers on upcoming road trip

SENATORS HOST RED WINGS ON PRIME MONDAY NIGHT HOCKEY

An #NHLStats primer before tonight’s Red Wings-Senators game on Prime Monday Night Hockey:

* Patrick Kane (498-869—1,367) enters two goals shy of the 500-goal milestone and would join Mike Modano (561), Keith Tkachuk (538), Jeremy Roenick (513) and Joe Mullen (502) as the only U.S.-born players in NHL history to reach the mark. Kane can also inch closer to passing Modano (1,374) for the all-time points record by a U.S.-born skater – more on that can be read in this #NHLStats Pack.

* Tim Stützle can extend his point streak to 13 games and match the fourth-longest run in Senators history – he also recorded Ottawa’s third-longest point streak (14 GP) last season. Stützle is also one goal back from his fourth career 20-goal campaign, which would match the seventh most in franchise history.

* Lucas Raymond (109-189—298 in 361 GP), Detroit’s leading scorer this season, needs two points to reach the 300-point mark. He can become the third Red Wings player in the past 30 years to record 300 NHL points before his 400th career game and would join Henrik Zetterberg (324 GP) and Pavel Datsyuk (341 GP).

NATIONAL GAMES ON THE RADAR THIS WEEK

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

1. Panthers at Maple Leafs on TNT and HBO MAX (Tuesday): Toronto’s new all-time goals leader Auston Matthews will face off against Sam Bennett and the Panthers in a rematch of the 2025 Second Round. Matthews earned the distinction after a hat trick on New Year’s Day and a two-goal game on Jan. 3 – he can become the seventh player in League history to begin a calendar year with three consecutive multi-goal games. Meanwhile, Bennett is riding a nine-game point streak and can become the second Panthers player with a double-digit run in 2025-26 – a feat the franchise has seen in a single season twice before (2022-23 & 2018-19).

2. Calgary at Montreal on Sportsnet (Wednesday): A battle between newly named Olympic-bound players Rasmus Andersson (Team Sweden) and Nick Suzuki (Team Canada) will take place at Bell Centre when the Flames visit the Canadiens. The contest will also feature Lane Hutson (13-97—110 in 126 GP) who is now three shy of his 100th career assist. Hutson can become the fastest player in Canadiens history (currently Buddy O’Connor: 129 GP) and can tie Sergei Zubov (127 GP) as the fastest defenseman in NHL history to reach the mark.


3. NHL on TNT Doubleheader (Wednesday): A matchup between 20-goal scorers headlines the first half of an NHL on TNT doubleheader when Jason Robertson (24-25—49 in 42 GP) and Dallastake on Tom Wilson (22-20-42 in 41 GP) and Washington. Both players are currently on pace to set career highs for goals in a season, with Robertson also nearing his 200th career goal – a mark Wilson recently hit on Dec. 31, 2025. The doubleheader culminates with a Central Division duel between the Blues and Blackhawks.

4: NY Rangers at Boston on ABC and Sportsnet (Saturday): The Rangers triumphed at the 2026 Winter Classic and will take on their Original Six rival, the Bruins, who will also be playing in the NHL’s next outdoor event at the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union Stadium Series on Feb. 1. New York is led in scoring by Artemi Panarin (202-392—594 in 472 GP), who can surpass Mark Messier (531 GP) as the fastest player in franchise history to hit 600 points. Pacing the way this season for Boston is David Pastrnak (130 PPG), who could overtake his former teammate Patrice Bergeron (131 PPG) for the fourth-most power-play goals in Bruins history.

5. Hockey Night in Canada on Sportsnet (Saturday): A five-pack of Hockey Night in Canada games will be headlined by the Canucks visiting the Maple Leafs, as star forwards on both sides can climb all-time lists by the end of the week. Auston Matthews (83) will have a chance to tie or pass Joe Mullen (85) for the third-most multi-goal games in NHL history by a U.S.-born player, while Elias Pettersson (195) can enter the top 10 in Vancouver’s all-time goals list and also become the franchise’s 10th player to reach the 200-goal mark.

NFL Seven from Sunday – Week 18

NFL Editor
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NFL Seven from Sunday – Week 18

NEW YORK – A look at seven statistical highlights from games played during the 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. ET windows on Sunday, January 4, the 18th week of the 2025 season.

  • Carolina (NFC South), Chicago (NFC North) and New England (AFC East) won division titles this season after finishing last or tied for last in their divisions in 2024. In 20 of the past 23 seasons (2003-25), at least one team finished in first place in its division the season after finishing in last or tied for last place.

    Six teams – Carolina, Chicago, Jacksonville, New England, San Francisco and Seattle – qualified for the playoffs after missing the postseason last year. Since 1990 – a streak of 36 consecutive seasons (1990-2025) – at least four teams every season have qualified for the playoffs after failing to make the postseason the year before.

    With one game remaining this season, there have been 72 games decided by three-or-fewer points, the third-most in a season in NFL history, trailing only 2018 (73 games) and 2022 (73).

    There have been 60 games this season with a game winning score coming in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter or in overtime, the second-most in a single season in NFL history, trailing only 2022 (66 games).
  • The Denver Broncos (14-3) defeated the Los Angeles Chargers, 19-3, in Week 18 and secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC, a first-round bye and home-field advantage in the AFC playoffs. The Broncos won the AFC West for the first time since 2015 and have won 14 games in a season for the second time in franchise history (1998).

    The No. 2 seed New England Patriots (14-3), who clinched their first playoff berth since 2021 and their first AFC East title since 2019, will host the No. 7 seed Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) in the Wild Card round.

    The No. 3 seed Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4), who won the AFC South for the first time since 2022 and have 13 wins in a season for the second time in franchise history (14 wins in 1999), will host the No. 6 seed Buffalo Bills (12-5) in the first round of the playoffs.

    The Baltimore Ravens (8-8) visit the Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7) on Sunday Night Football (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC), with the winner securing the AFC North division title. Baltimore or Pittsburgh will be the No. 4 seed and host the No. 5 seed Houston Texans (12-5) on Wild Card weekend.
  • The Seattle Seahawks (14-3) defeated San Francisco, 13-3, in Week 18 and secured the NFC West division title for the first time since 2020, along with the No. 1 seed in the NFC, a first-round bye and home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs. The Seahawks, who set a franchise record with 14 wins this season, are the No. 1 seed for the first time since 2014, when they won Super Bowl XLVIII.

    The No. 2 seed Chicago Bears (11-6), who won the NFC North for the first time since 2018, will host the No. 7 seed Green Bay Packers (9-7-1) on Wild Card weekend.

    The No. 3 seed and reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles (11-6), who won the NFC East for the second consecutive season, will host the No. 6 seed San Francisco 49ers (12-5). 

    The No. 4 seed Carolina Panthers (8-9) clinched the NFC South for the first time since 2015 and will host the No. 5 seed Los Angeles Rams (12-5) on Wild Card weekend. 
  • Cleveland defensive end Myles Garrett recorded his 23rd sack of the season in the Browns’ 20-18 victory over Cincinnati and surpassed Michael Strahan (22.5 in 2001 with the New York Giants) and T.J. Watt (22.5 in 2021 with Pittsburgh) for the most sacks in a single season since 1982, when the individual sack became an official statistic.

    Garrett, who has a sack in 79 career games, tied Pro Football Hall of Famers DeMarcus Ware (79 games) and Reggie White (79) for the most games with a sack by a player in his first nine seasons since 1982, when the individual sack became an official statistic.

    Per Next Gen Stats, on the record-breaking sack, Garrett crossed the line of scrimmage 0.23 seconds after the snap, the fastest on any sack this season. Garrett’s 0.70-second average get-off time ranked as the fastest among all pass rushers with at least 200 pass rushes this season.

    For more information on Next Gen Stats, check out NFL Pro, available within NFL+ Premium. With NFL+ Premium, get access to NFL Pro and track advanced analytics powered by Next Gen Stats and watch All-22 film. Available on desktop and mobile web, visit pro.nfl.com for more information.
  • Cincinnati wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase had eight receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown in Week 18 and finished the 2025 season with 125 receptions for 1,412 yards and eight touchdowns.

    Chase, who had 127 receptions in 2024, is the third player all-time with at least 125 receptions in multiple career seasons, joining Antonio Brown and Michael Thomas.

    Chase is the fourth player all-time with at least 1,400 receiving yards in three of his first five NFL seasons, joining Justin Jefferson (four seasons), Larry Fitzgerald (three) and Demaryius Thomas (three).

    Chase, who has 6,837 career receiving yards, surpassed Torry Holt (6,784 receiving yards) for the second-most receiving yards by a player in his first five seasons in NFL history. Only Justin Jefferson (7,432 receiving yards) had more.

    Chase, who has 54 career touchdowns, tied Pro Football Hall of Famer Lance Alworth (54 touchdown receptions) and Rob Gronkowski (54) for the fourth-most touchdown receptions by a player in his first five seasons in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famers Jerry Rice (66 touchdown receptions) and Randy Moss (60) as well as Dez Bryant (56) had more.
  • Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford passed for 259 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions while wide receiver Puka Nacua had 10 receptions for 76 yards and a touchdown in the team’s 37-20 victory over Arizona.

    Stafford is the third player in NFL history with multiple touchdown passes in 15 games in a season, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Peyton Manning (2013 with Denver) and Dan Marino (1984 with Miami).

    Stafford, who had a career-high 46 touchdown passes with eight interceptions this season, is the third player in NFL history with at least 45 touchdown passes and fewer than 10 interceptions in a season, joining Tom Brady (2007 with New England) and Aaron Rodgers (2011 and 2020 with Green Bay).

    Stafford, who is 37 years old and had a career-high 46 touchdown passes this season, surpassed Tom Brady (43 touchdown passes in 2021 with Tampa Bay) for the second-most touchdown passes in a single season by a quarterback age 37-or-older in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (55 touchdown passes in 2013 with Denver) had more.

    Stafford, who has 423 career touchdown passes, surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino (420 touchdown passes) for the seventh-most regular season touchdown passes in NFL history. Only Tom Brady (649 touchdown passes), Drew Brees (571), Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (539), Aaron Rodgers (526, entering Week 18), Pro Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre (508) and Philip Rivers (425) have more.

    Nacua, who has 4,191 receiving yards since entering the NFL in 2023, surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss (4,163 receiving yards with Minnesota) for the second-most receiving yards by a player in their first three seasons in NFL history, trailing only Justin Jefferson (4,825). 

    Nacua, who has 35 games with at least five receptions, joins Michael Thomas (37 games) and Amon-Ra St. Brown (35) as the only players in NFL history with at least five receptions in 35 games in their first three career seasons.
  • Kansas City tight endTravis Kelcehas 13,002 receiving yards since entering the NFL in 2013 and joined Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez (15,127 receiving yards) and Jason Witten (13,046) as the only tight ends in NFL history with at least 13,000 receiving yards.
  • Additional notes from Sunday include:
    • Denver quarterback Bo Nix passed for 141 yards and had 49 rushing yards in the Broncos’ 19-3 victory over the Chargers.

      Nix has 24 wins since 2024, tied with Russell Wilson (24 wins) for the most wins by a quarterback in their first two career seasons in NFL history.
    • Detroit quarterback Jared Goff passed for 331 yards and a touchdown at Chicago, while running back Jahmyr Gibbs had 113 scrimmage yards (80 rushing, 33 receiving) and a touchdown reception.

      Goff, who has 39,622 career passing yards, surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino (39,502 passing yards) for the third-most passing yards by a player in his first 10 seasons. Only Matt Ryan (41,796 passing yards) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (41,626) had more.

      Gibbs has 31 career games with a scrimmage touchdown since entering the NFL in 2023, tied with Pro Football Hall of Famers Randy Moss (31 games) and Barry Sanders (31) for the most games with a touchdown by a player in his first three seasons all-time.
    • Minnesota wide receiver Justin Jefferson had eight receptions for 101 yards in Minnesota’s 16-3 victory over Green Bay.

      Jefferson, who had 1,048 receiving yards this season, joined Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss and Mike Evans as the only players in NFL history with at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of their first six seasons.

PWHL Game Preview: Minnesota Frost (4-1-1-3) vs. Montreal Victoire (3-1-0-4)

PWHL Editor
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PWHL Game Preview: Minnesota Frost (4-1-1-3) vs. Montreal Victoire (3-1-0-4)

Game Details

The Minnesota Frost will face off against the Montreal Victoire in a key PWHL matchup on Sunday, January 4, 2026. The game is set to take place at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec, Canada.

Puck drop is scheduled for 2:00 PM EST (1:00 PM CST for Minnesota viewers).

This contest marks the first meeting between these two teams in the 2025-26 season and will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network and FOX 9+ in Minnesota, with additional streaming options available via the PWHL’s official platforms.

Place Bell, home to the Victoire, is a modern multi-purpose arena with a capacity of around 10,000 for hockey games. It has hosted numerous PWHL events since the league’s inception, providing a vibrant atmosphere for Montreal’s passionate fanbase. The Frost will be playing on the road, where they have historically faced challenges against Eastern Conference opponents like Montreal.

Recent Team Forms

Minnesota comes into this game off a tough 2-5 loss to the Ottawa Charge on January 3, 2026, at TD Place Arena.

Prior to that setback, the Frost had been on a solid run, winning four of their previous six games, including a notable overtime victory against Boston. Their offense has been potent in spurts, averaging 3.2 goals per game, but defensive lapses have cost them in recent outings. Goaltending has been a mixed bag, with Nicole Hensley shouldering much of the load but allowing an average of 2.8 goals against.

Montreal, meanwhile, has hit a rough patch, dropping their last game to the New York Sirens in a New Year’s matchup, marking their second straight regulation loss.

Before that, the Victoire showed resilience with back-to-back overtime wins, but they’ve struggled with consistency, particularly on the power play (converting at just 18% this season). Their defense ranks among the league’s best, allowing only 2.4 goals per game, but offensive production has dipped to 2.6 goals scored per contest in their last five games.

Recent Form (Last 5 Games):

Minnesota Frost: L-W-OTW-L-W (2-1-1-1, 8 points)

Montreal Victoire: L-L-OTW-W-OTL (2-1-1-2, 8 points)

Injury Report

Information on injuries remains limited as of January 3, 2026, with no major updates from official PWHL sources for this specific matchup.

For Minnesota, forward Grace Zumwinkle and defender Dominique Petrie have been sidelined in recent weeks due to upper-body issues, but their status for January 4 is day-to-day.

Defender Sophie Jaques, who returned from an upper-body injury earlier in the season, is expected to play a full role.

For Montreal, forward Laura Stacey suffered a lower-body injury in a December 2025 game but has since returned to the lineup without reported setbacks.

The Victoire appear mostly healthy, with no confirmed absences heading into the weekend. Both teams’ medical staffs are monitoring minor ailments typical of a grueling season, but expect full rosters unless last-minute scratches occur.

Key Player Matchups

This game features several intriguing individual battles that could swing the outcome:

Taylor Heise (MIN) vs. Marie-Philip Poulin (MTL): Heise, Minnesota’s dynamic forward and leading scorer with 8 goals and 12 assists this season, will be tested by Poulin, Montreal’s captain and all-around star (7 goals, 10 assists). Poulin’s defensive prowess could neutralize Heise’s speed in transition, but if Heise breaks free, she could exploit Montreal’s occasional turnovers.

Kendall Coyne Schofield (MIN) vs. Erin Ambrose (MTL): Coyne Schofield’s veteran leadership and quick shot (6 goals) will challenge Ambrose, one of the PWHL’s top defensemen known for her shot-blocking and puck-moving ability. This matchup on the blue line could dictate control of the neutral zone.

Nicole Hensley (MIN) vs. Ann-Renée Desbiens (MTL) in Goal: Expect a goaltending duel, with Hensley posting a .915 save percentage for Minnesota and Desbiens at .922 for Montreal. Desbiens has been particularly strong at home, stopping 94% of shots in Place Bell this season.

Other notables include Minnesota’s Kelly Pannek facing off against Montreal’s Kristin O’Neill in the faceoff circle, where both hover around 55% win rates, and the power-play units: Minnesota’s (22% efficiency) against Montreal’s penalty kill (85% success rate).

Series History

The rivalry between Minnesota and Montreal has been one-sided in Montreal’s favor historically. Across 11 previous meetings since the PWHL’s launch, the Victoire hold a 7-4 edge in wins, including a 4-1 record at home.

Last season, Montreal won the series 4-2, with games often decided by two goals or fewer.

The Frost’s most recent victory came in a high-scoring 4-2 win during the 2025 Takeover Tour in Denver, where they capitalized on Montreal’s defensive breakdowns.

Overall, games average 4.8 total goals, with Montreal outscoring Minnesota 29-25 in the all-time series.

Betting Trends

Minnesota Frost: The Frost are 3-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last five road games but have gone under the total in four of their last six outings. They’ve struggled as underdogs, going 2-3 this season, but cover the puck line 60% of the time in losses.

Montreal Victoire: Montreal is 4-1 ATS at home this season and has won three of their last five as favorites. The under has hit in five of their eight games, aligning with their low-scoring style. Against Western teams like Minnesota, they’ve covered in 70% of matchups.

Head-to-Head Trends: In the last five meetings, the home team has won four times, and the under has cashed in three. Montreal is 5-0 ATS in their last five home games vs. Minnesota.

Overall league trends show PWHL games trending under this season (55% of games), with home teams winning 58% of contests.

GAME ODDS

Minnesota Frost                               4.5

Montreal Victoire                            – 120

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

NFL team transactions report for Saturday, January 3, 2026

NFL Editor
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0
NFL team transactions report for Saturday, January 3, 2026

WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS
WAIVER REQUESTS (All are NO RECALL)
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Murchison, Larrell DE North Carolina State (5)* PS: VET – Vested Veteran
NEW ENGLAND
Pharms, Jeremiah DT Friends (2)* PS: EXC

CLAIMING DEADLINE: 4:00 p.m., N.Y. Time, Monday, 1/5/26
*Indicates player’s accrued seasons at end of 2024 season.
ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS
ACTIVATIONS
ARIZONA
Davis, Jaden DB Miami – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Sims, Steven WR Kansas – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
ATLANTA
Gill, Trenton P North Carolina State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
BALTIMORE
Kirkwood, Keith WR Temple
From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Oruwariye, Amani DB Penn State
From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
BUFFALO
Jenkins, Keonta LB Virginia Tech
From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Judon, Matt LB Grand Valley State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
CHICAGO
Kalinic, Nikola TE York, Can. – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Summers, Ty LB Texas Christian – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
CINCINNATI
Cross, Howard DT Notre Dame – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Lux, Bralyn DB Texas Tech – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
CLEVELAND
Cannella, Sal TE Auburn – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
DALLAS
Butler, Josh DB Michigan State – From Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform
Leverett, Nick G Rice – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Mafah, Phil RB Clemson – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
DENVER
Bailey, Levelle LB Fresno State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
DETROIT
Horton, Zach TE Indiana – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Hubbard, Christopher T Alabama-Birmingham – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
GREEN BAY
Dabney, Drake TE Texas Christian – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Johnson, Jamon LB Kentucky – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
HOUSTON
Fotu, Leki DT Utah – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Merriweather, Kaevon DB Iowa – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
INDIANAPOLIS
Henigan, Seth QB Memphis – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
McKeon, Sean TE Michigan – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
JACKSONVILLE
Herbert, Patrick TE Oregon – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
KANSAS CITY
Brownlee, Jason WR Southern Mississippi – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Holiday, Jimmy WR Louisiana Tech – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
LAS VEGAS
Davis, Jamin LB Kentucky – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Wagner, Dalton T Arkansas – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Taylor, Branson G Pittsburgh – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Uiagalelei, D.J. QB Florida State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Heflin, Jack DT Iowa – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Higbee, Tyler TE Western Kentucky – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
Ingle, Tanner DB North Carolina State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
MIAMI
McLendon, Derrick DE Colorado – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Wilson, Jeffery RB North Texas – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
MINNESOTA
Jones, Jeshaun WR Maryland – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Takitaki, Sione LB Brigham Young – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
NEW ENGLAND
Campbell, Will T Louisiana State – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
Jaimes, Brenden G Nebraska – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Taylor, Leonard DT Miami – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Williams, Milton DT Louisiana Tech – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
NEW ORLEANS
Haener, Jake QB Fresno State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Miller-Hines, Nyheim RB North Carolina State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
NEW YORK GIANTS
Conner, Tanner TE Idaho State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Rogers, Casey DT Oregon – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
NEW YORK JETS
Blackshear, Raheem RB Virginia Tech – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Womack, Samuel DB Toledo – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
PHILADELPHIA
Hughlett, Charley LS Central Florida – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Johnson, Brandon DB Oregon – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
PITTSBURGH
Jamison, D’Shawn DB Texas – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
SAN FRANCISCO
Kendricks, Eric LB UCLA – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Parker, Brandon T North Carolina A&T – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
SEATTLE
Akers, Cam RB Florida State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Hall, Tyler DB Wyoming – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
TENNESSEE
Gaye, Ali LB Louisiana State – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
Oliver, Bryce WR Youngstown State – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
Turner, Cole TE Nevada – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
WASHINGTON
Barber, Ricky DT Central Florida – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)
Cracraft, River WR Washington State – From Practice Squad (Standard Elevation)

FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
ARIZONA
Palmer, Tejhaun WR Alabama-Birmingham – From Arizona Practice Squad
CLEVELAND
Ulofoshio, Edefuan LB Washington – From Cleveland Practice Squad
DALLAS
Barron, Justin LB Syracuse – From Dallas Practice Squad
GREEN BAY
Keeney-James, Jakobie WR Massachusetts – rom Green Bay Practice Squad
Smith, Lecitus C Virginia Tech – From Green Bay Practice Squad
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Maye, Marcus DB Florida – From Los Angeles Chargers Practice Squad
NEW ORLEANS
Welch, Treyton TE Wyoming – From New Orleans Practice Squad
NEW YORK GIANTS
Bernard-Converse, Jarrick DB Louisiana State – From New York Giants Practice Squad
Gipson, Xavier WR Stephen F. Austin – From New York Giants Practice Squad
Miller, Dante RB South Carolina – From New York Giants Practice Squad
NEW YORK JETS
Hooker, Hendon QB Tennessee – From New York Jets Practice Squad
Jonathan, Kingsley DE Syracuse – From New York Jets Practice Squad
Levao, Kohl G Hawaii – From New York Jets Practice Squad
TENNESSEE
Hall, Kemon DB North Texas – From Tennessee Practice Squad

RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS
CLEVELAND
Schwesinger, Carson LB UCLA – Reserve/Injured
DALLAS
Bass, T.J. G Oregon – Reserve/Injured
Davis, Malik RB Florida – Reserve/Injured
Williams, Javonte RB North Carolina – Reserve/Injured
DETROIT
Colon, Trystan G Missouri – Reserve/Injured
GREEN BAY
Jennings, Donovan G South Florida – Reserve/Injured
Williams, Savion WR Texas Christian – Reserve/Injured
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Reed, Nikko DB Oregon – Reserve/Injured
NEW YORK GIANTS
Flott, Cordale DB Louisiana State – Reserve/Injured
Nunez-Roches, Rakeem NT Southern Mississippi – Reserve/Injured
Robinson, Wan’Dale WR Kentucky – Reserve/Injured
NEW YORK JETS
Davis, Isaiah RB South Dakota State – Reserve/Injured
Newman-Johnson, Xavier G Baylor – Reserve/Injured
Taylor, Mason TE Louisiana State – Reserve/Injured
TENNESSEE
Armour-Davis, Jalyn DB Alabama – Reserve/Injured
Jefferson, Van WR Florida – Reserve/Injured

PRACTICE SQUAD TRANSACTIONS
CONTRACTS TERMINATED BY PLAYER
ARIZONA
Palmer, Tejhaun WR Alabama-Birmingham
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
CLEVELAND
Ulofoshio, Edefuan LB Washington
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
DALLAS
Barron, Justin LB Syracuse
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
GREEN BAY
Keeney-James, Jakobie WR Massachusetts
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Smith, Lecitus C Virginia Tech
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Maye, Marcus DB Florida
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
NEW ORLEANS
Welch, Treyton TE Wyoming
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
NEW YORK GIANTS
Bernard-Converse, Jarrick DB Louisiana State
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Gipson, Xavier WR Stephen F. Austin
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Miller, Dante RB South Carolina
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
NEW YORK JETS
Hooker, Hendon QB Tennessee
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Jonathan, Kingsley DE Syracuse
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
Levao, Kohl G Hawaii
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
TENNESSEE
Hall, Kemon DB North Texas
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)

NHL Game Preview: Boston Bruins (21-18-2) vs. Vancouver Canucks (16-20-4)

NHL Editor
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0
NHL Game Preview: Boston Bruins (21-18-2) vs. Vancouver Canucks (16-20-4)

The Boston Bruins travel to the Pacific Northwest for an interconference matchup against the Vancouver Canucks on January 3, 2026. The Bruins, sitting fourth in the Atlantic Division, have been inconsistent lately but boast a strong road record and elite goaltending from Jeremy Swayman. The Canucks, mired in eighth place in the Pacific, are struggling with injuries and defensive lapses, hoping to capitalize on home ice to snap a potential skid. This game could hinge on Boston’s veteran leadership versus Vancouver’s young stars like Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes.

Venue Location

The game will be played at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This 18,910-capacity venue has been the Canucks’ home since 1995 and is known for its passionate fans and modern amenities, providing a challenging atmosphere for visiting teams.

Puckdrop is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. PT). The game will be broadcast on NHL Network nationally, with local coverage on NESN for Bruins fans and SNP for Canucks viewers. Streaming options include ESPN+ and NHL.tv.

Injury Report

Both teams are battling key absences, with the Canucks hit harder in the forward group, potentially forcing lineup adjustments.

Boston Bruins:

Tanner Jeannot (LW): Day-to-day (undisclosed). Jeannot missed practice but could play; if out, it impacts Boston’s physical forecheck.

Henri Jokiharju (D): IR (undisclosed). Expected return around January 6, weakening the blue line.

Jordan Harris (D): LTIR (ankle). Out long-term, further straining defensive depth.

Vancouver Canucks:

Marco Rossi (C): IR (lower-body). Out at least a week, affecting secondary scoring and faceoffs.

Conor Garland (RW): Out (undisclosed). Sidelined for at least a week, thinning the forward lines.

Teddy Blueger (C): Out (lower-body). Impacts penalty kill and depth.

Derek Forbort (D): Out (undisclosed). Long-term absence, expected out until late March, hurting defensive stability.

Monitor game-time decisions, as final lineups will be confirmed closer to puck drop.

Player Matchups

This contest features intriguing battles, especially with injuries forcing role elevations. Boston’s offensive stars will test Vancouver’s depleted roster.

David Pastrnak (BOS RW) vs. Quinn Hughes (VAN D): Pastrnak’s elite scoring (leading Bruins with 25 goals) against Hughes’ playmaking (top defenseman with assists). Hughes must contain Pastrnak’s one-timer on the power play.

Brad Marchand (BOS LW) vs. J.T. Miller (VAN C): Marchand’s agitating style and two-way play versus Miller’s physicality and faceoff prowess (over 55% wins). This center-ice duel could control possession.

Pavel Zacha (BOS C) vs. Elias Pettersson (VAN C): Zacha’s steady production faces Pettersson’s speed and shot (20+ goals). With Rossi out, Pettersson carries more load.

Other Key Battles: Charlie McAvoy (BOS D) vs. Brock Boeser (VAN RW), where McAvoy’s shutdown ability tests Boeser’s sniping. Goaltending: Jeremy Swayman (BOS) vs. Thatcher Demko (VAN), both top-10 in save percentage.

Recent Team Forms

The Bruins have been middling, relying on defense, while the Canucks have faltered with poor home results.

Boston Bruins: 3-5-2 in their last 10 games, averaging 2.8 goals for and 3.2 against. They’ve dropped four straight, including a 1-2 loss to Calgary, but won key road games earlier.

Vancouver Canucks: 4-5-1 in their last 10, allowing 3.5 goals per game. Recent losses include a 3-6 defeat to Philadelphia, with injuries exacerbating defensive issues.

Recent GamesBoston BruinsVancouver Canucks
Last 5 ResultsL vs. CGY (1-2), L vs. BUF (2-3), L at MTL (3-4), L vs. OTT (1-3), SOL at VAN (previous, 4-5)L vs. PHI (3-6), L prior (assumed), W prior, L prior, OT L prior
ATS Record (Last 10)4-65-5
Over/Under (Last 10)5-56-4 Over

Series History

The Bruins lead the all-time series 83-41-15 (including ties). In the last 10 meetings, it’s even at 5-5-0 for Vancouver. Boston won the most recent encounter on December 20, 2025 (details sparse), but Vancouver has won three of the last five at home. The teams met in the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, with Boston winning in seven games.

Betting Trends

Boston is 4-6 ATS in last 10, but 6-4 ATS on the road. Vancouver is 5-5 ATS in last 10, but 1-4 ATS at home recently. The over has hit in 6 of Vancouver’s last 10 and 4 of the last 5 head-to-head.

Game Odds

Boston Bruins                    – 130

Vancouver Canucks         5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, January 3, 2026

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