Thursday, July 30, 2026
Jackery Solar Battery Portable Generator
Home Blog Page 682

Montreal Canadiens’ Demidov Named NHL ‘Rookie of the Month’ for December

NHL Editor
-
0
Montreal Canadiens’ Demidov Named NHL ‘Rookie of the Month’ for December

NEW YORK – Montreal Canadiens right wing Ivan Demidov, who topped all rookies with 4-10—14 in 15 games, has been named the NHL’s “Rookie of the Month” for December.

Demidov edged Anaheim Ducks right wing Beckett Sennecke (5-6—11 in 15 GP), Detroit Red Wings defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka (2-7—9 in 15 GP), Vancouver Canucks center Linus Karlsson (5-3—8 in 13 GP), San Jose Sharks left wing Igor Chernyshov (3-5—8 in 7 GP) and Washington Capitals right wing Ryan Leonard (2-6—8 in 7 GP) for the honor.

Demidov, the fifth overall pick from the 2024 NHL Draft, also ranked among the December rookie leaders in assists (1st; 10), even-strength assists (1st; 7), even-strength points (1st; 10), power-play assists (t-2nd; 3), power-play points (t-2nd; 4), goals (t-4th; 4) and even-strength goals (t-5th; 3).

He found the scoresheet in 11 of his 15 December appearances, posting a five-game assist/point streak from Dec. 3-11 (0-5—5) before closing the month on a four-game run (Dec. 21-30: 3-4—7). Only three Canadiens rookies have compiled more points in a single calendar month this century: Michael Ryder (7-9—16 in 14 GP in January 2004), Cole Caufield (7-8—15 in 15 GP in March 2022) and Lane Hutson (1-14—15 in 14 GP in March 2025).

The 20-year-old Demidov paces NHL rookies with 10-23—33 through 39 total contests this season, also sitting among the top 2025-26 freshmen in assists (1st; 23), even-strength assists (1st; 15), shooting percentage (1st; 18.9% – minimum: 1 SOG/GP), even-strength points (2nd; 23), power-play assists (2nd; 8), power-play points (t-2nd; 10), game-winning goals (t-2nd; 2), goals (3rd; 10) and even-strength goals (3rd; 8).

Demidov – who joins New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (October) and Minnesota Wild goaltender Jesper Wallstedt (November) as a recipient in 2025-26 – is the second Canadiens player in as many seasons to be named a “Rookie of the Month,” following Hutson (the eventual Calder Memorial Trophy winner) in December 2024 and March 2025.

Ivan Demidov in December

DateOpponentGAPResult
Dec. 2OTTAWA0005-2 L
Dec. 3WINNIPEG0113-2 SO W
Dec. 6at Toronto0112-1 SO W
Dec. 7ST. LOUIS0114-3 L
Dec. 9TAMPA BAY0116-1 L
Dec. 11at Pittsburgh0114-2 W
Dec. 13at NY Rangers0005-4 OT L
Dec. 14EDMONTON1014-1 W
Dec. 16PHILADELPHIA0004-1 L
Dec. 18CHICAGO0114-1 W
Dec. 20PITTSBURGH0004-0 W
Dec. 21at Pittsburgh1124-3 SO L
Dec. 23at Boston1126-2 W
Dec. 28at Tampa Bay1125-4 SO L
Dec. 30at Florida0113-2 OT W
Totals 410148-4-3

NFL team transactions report for Thursday, January 1, 2026

NFL Editor
-
0
NFL team transactions report for Thursday, January 1, 2026

WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS
WAIVER REQUEST (NO RECALL)
BALTIMORE
Cleveland, Ben G Georgia (4)* PS: VET – Vested Veteran

CLAIMING DEADLINE: 4:00 p.m., N.Y. Time, Friday, 1/2/26
ASSIGNMENT VIA WAIVER SYSTEM
ARIZONA
Keys, Austin LB Auburn – From MINNESOTA
*Indicates player’s accrued seasons at end of 2024 season.

ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS
ACTIVATION
PHILADELPHIA
Williams, Cameron T Texas – From Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return

FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
ATLANTA
Kareem, Khalid DE Notre Dame – From Atlanta Practice Squad
MIAMI
Miller, Cam QB North Dakota State – From Las Vegas Practice Squad
NEW ENGLAND
Minor, Kobee DB Memphis – From New England Practice Squad

RESERVE LIST ADDITIONS
ARIZONA
Crawford, Kitan DB Nevada – Reserve/Injured
ATLANTA
Hughes, Mike DB Central Florida – Reserve/Injured
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Lake, Quentin DB UCLA – Status Changed to Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return
(Also see OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS)

PRACTICE SQUAD TRANSACTIONS
ADDITIONS
ATLANTA
Gill, Trenton P North Carolina State – Veteran
GREEN BAY
Perry, Mark DB Texas Christian
NEW ENGLAND
Battle, Miles DB Utah
Jaimes, Brenden G Nebraska – Veteran

PRACTICE SQUAD; INJURED
GREEN BAY
Castles, McCallan TE Tennessee – Does Not Count on Practice Squad

CONTRACT TERMINATED BY CLUB
ARIZONA
Cooper, Tyler G Minnesota

CONTRACTS TERMINATED BY PLAYER
ATLANTA
Kareem, Khalid DE Notre Dame
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
LAS VEGAS
Miller, Cam QB North Dakota State
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)
NEW ENGLAND
Minor, Kobee DB Memphis
(Also see ACTIVE LIST ADDITIONS)

OTHER TRANSACTIONS/COMMENTS
ROSTER EXEMPTION LIFTED (Counts on Active List)
BALTIMORE
Cleveland, Ben G Georgia – From Exempt/Commissioner Permission
(Also see WAIVER SYSTEM TRANSACTIONS)

RETURNED TO PRACTICE
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Lake, Quentin DB UCLA – Remains on Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return

TRYOUTS
BALTIMORE
Spangler, Colton P Maryland
WASHINGTON
Czaplicki, Eddie P Southern California

NFL Game Preview: Seattle Seahawks (13-3) vs. San Francisco 49ers (12-4)

NFL Editor
-
0
NFL Game Preview: Seattle Seahawks (13-3) vs. San Francisco 49ers (12-4)

The 2025 NFL regular season culminates in a blockbuster NFC West showdown in Week 18, with the Seattle Seahawks (13-3) facing the San Francisco 49ers (12-4) for the division title and the NFC’s No. 1 seed. A Seahawks victory secures both, while the 49ers need a win to leapfrog Seattle and claim home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. This rivalry game features Seattle’s potent offense led by quarterback Sam Darnold against San Francisco’s resilient defense and quarterback Brock Purdy’s precision passing.

Venue Location

The game will be held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This state-of-the-art outdoor venue, home to the 49ers, has a capacity of about 68,500 and is known for its modern amenities and passionate fanbase.

Kickoff is set for 8:00 p.m. ET (5:00 p.m. PT).

The matchup will be televised nationally on ESPN/ABC: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Lisa Salters (field reporter), Laura Rutledge (field reporter)

Westwood One: Nate Gatter, Ryan Harris

Weather Updates

Santa Clara’s early January weather is expected to be mild but potentially wet. Daytime highs will hover around 59-61°F, with nighttime lows dropping to 41-52°F. There’s a 55-90% chance of precipitation, including possible rain showers, with light winds around 2-5 mph and humidity in the 60-70% range. Conditions could impact passing games, but no severe disruptions are forecasted—players may need to adjust for slick turf.

Injury Report

Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks are dealing with significant concerns on the offensive line and secondary. Left tackle Charles Cross (hamstring) did not participate in practice and is questionable. Backup tackle Josh Jones (knee/ankle) was also a non-participant and remains doubtful. Wide receiver Cody White (groin) has been placed on injured reserve. Cornerback Coby Bryant (knee) and wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (concussion) are questionable, with Shaheed in protocol. Quarterback Sam Darnold and key starters are expected to play, but the line injuries could expose the backfield.

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers are banged up across multiple positions, particularly on offense. Running back Christian McCaffrey (stiff back) missed practice and is questionable. Tight end George Kittle (undisclosed) returned to limited practice after missing Week 17 and is expected to play but monitored. Left tackle Trent Williams (hamstring) is questionable with a “we’ll see” status from coach Kyle Shanahan. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk (undisclosed) did not practice. Defensive lineman Mykel Williams (undisclosed) is out. Quarterback Brock Purdy is full go, but depth issues could strain the short-week recovery.

Player Matchups

This NFC West finale could be decided by quarterback play and trench warfare, with injuries adding intrigue.

Seahawks QB Sam Darnold vs. 49ers Secondary: Darnold has thrived in Seattle, posting efficient numbers, but faces a 49ers defense ranked highly in pass defense. Safety Talanoa Hufanga and cornerback Charvarius Ward will aim to contain big plays, especially if McCaffrey’s absence limits San Francisco’s offense.

49ers QB Brock Purdy vs. Seahawks Defensive Backs: Purdy has been elite lately, but Seattle’s secondary, led by cornerback Devon Witherspoon, could force turnovers. If Trent Williams is out, edge rusher Boye Mafe might pressure Purdy into mistakes.

49ers RB Christian McCaffrey vs. Seahawks Front Seven: If McCaffrey plays through his back issue, he’ll test Seattle’s run defense (middle of the pack). Linebacker Ernest Jones IV must contain McCaffrey’s dual-threat ability to keep the game close.

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf vs. 49ers CBs: Metcalf’s size and speed could exploit mismatches against Ward, setting up explosive plays if Darnold has protection amid line injuries.

Recent Team Forms

Seattle Seahawks (Last 5 Games):

The Seahawks have been dominant, going 4-1 in their final five with an average of 29.4 points per game offensively. Key results include a 31-17 win over the Steelers (Week 14), a 44-13 blowout vs. Saints (Week 15), and recent victories building momentum. Their only loss was a close divisional battle, but they’ve covered ATS in four of five. Form: W-W-W-L-W.

San Francisco 49ers (Last 5 Games):

The 49ers went 3-2 in their last five, averaging strong offensive output but with defensive lapses. Highlights include a 42-38 thriller win over the Bears (Week 17) and road successes, but losses to divisional foes exposed vulnerabilities. They’ve averaged 28 points but allowed 30+ in defeats. Form: W-L-W-L-W.

Series History

The Seahawks lead the all-time series 31-24, including playoffs. Seattle has won 17 of the last 21 meetings in the Pete Carroll era (though now under Mike Macdonald), but the 49ers dominated early history. Recent games have been competitive, with the teams splitting in 2024. This is their second meeting of 2025, after Seattle’s Week 1 win.

Betting Trends

Seattle Seahawks: 11-5 ATS overall in 2025, including 10-5-0 straight up and 6-1 ATS on the road. They’ve gone over in 9 of 16 games, trending high-scoring in wins but under in defensive stands. As favorites, they’re 8-3 ATS.

San Francisco 49ers: 10-5-1 ATS in 2025, with a strong 4-2 ATS at home. The over has hit in 9 of 16 games, driven by offensive firepower. As underdogs, they’re 3-2 ATS, but injuries have led to 2-3 ATS in recent weeks.

Prediction: Seahawks 27, 49ers 24.

SEAHAWKS NOTES:

• SEAHAWKS clinched 1st playoff berth since 2022 & with a win in Week 18, can win NFC West for 1st time since 2020 & No. 1 seed for 1st time since 2014. • QB SAM DARNOLD passed for 147 yards & TD in Week 17. Is 5th QB all-time to record 13+ wins in consecutive seasons & 1st to do so with different teams (Min. in 2024). Aims for 4th in row on road with TD pass. Ranks 5th with 3,850 pass yards & tied-7th with 25 TD passes this season. • RB ZACH CHARBONNET led team with season-high 110 rush yards & had 2 rush TDs in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row with rush TD. Had rush TD in Week 1 meeting. Ranks tied-7th with 11 rush TDs this season. • RB KENNETH WALKER has 50+ scrimmage yards in 4 of his past 5 games on road. • WR JAXON SMITH-NJIGBA had 9 receptions for 72 yards in Week 17. Leads the NFL with 1,709 rec. yards this season & is 3rd player in NFL history under age 24 with 1,700+ rec. yards in a single season. Had 124 rec. yards in Week 1 meeting. Aims for 3rd in row vs. SF with 100+ rec. yards. • TE AJ BARNER had TD catch in Week 17 & aims for 3rd in row with TD reception. • LB ERNEST JONES had 5 tackles in Week 17. Has 10+ tackles in 4 of his past 5 games. Had 8 tackles, TFL & INT in Week 1 meeting. Aims for 4th in row vs. SF with 8+ tackles. • LB DEMARCUS LAWRENCE had 6 tackles, sack, FF & FR in Week 17. Ranks tied-6th with 3 FFs this season. Aims for 3rd in row on road with FF. Had 6 tackles & 2 TFL in Week 1 meeting. • DT LEONARD WILLIAMS has TFL in 4 of his past 5 games vs. SF. • CB DEVON WITHERSPOON had PD in Week 17 & has PD in 3 of his past 4 games. Aims for 4th in row on road with PD. Had 8 tackles & TFL in Week 1 meeting. • S NICK EMMANWORI (rookie) has 7+ tackles in 2 of his past 3 games. • S JULIAN LOVE co-led team with 6 tackles & had 1st INT this season in Week 17. Had 10 tackles & sack in Week 1 meeting.

49ERS NOTES:

• 49ers clinched 4th playoff berth in past 5 years & with a win in Week 18, can win NFC West for 3rd time in past 4 seasons & No. 1 seed for 3rd time in past 7 seasons. Have been No. 1 seed 10 times since 1975, most in NFL. • QB BROCK PURDY passed for 303 yards & 3 TDs & had 2 rush TDs in Week 17, his 2nd consecutive game with 5 offensive TDs. 1st player with 5+ offensive TDs in back-to-back weeks since 2020. Aims for 4th in row with 115+ passer rating. Had 277 pass yards & 2 TD passes in Week 1 meeting. • RB CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY had 181 scrimmage yards (140 rush, 41 rec.) & rush TD in Week 17. Has 2,069 scrimmage yards this season & is 6th player since 1990 with 2,000+ scrimmage yards in 3 career seasons. Is 1 of 2 (HOFer LaDainian Tomlinson) to have 3 seasons with 2,000+ scrimmage yards & 15+ TDs. Had 142 scrimmage yards (73 rec., 69 rush) in Week 1 meeting. • WR JAUAN JENNINGS had TD catch in Week 17 & has TD reception in 5 consecutive games, longest active streak this season. Ranks tied-7th with 9 TD catches this season. • WR RICKY PEARSALL had 85 rec. yards in Week 17 & aims for 3rd in row with 85+ rec. yards. Had 108 rec. yards in Week 1 meeting. • TE GEORGE KITTLE aims for 3rd in row with 85+ rec. yards & TD reception. Ranks tied-4th among TEs with 7 TD catches this season. Had TD reception in Week 1 meeting. • TE JAKE TONGES had TD reception in Week 17 & had TD catch in Week 1 meeting. • LB DEE WINTERS had 7 tackles & TFL in Week 17. Aims for 3rd in row at home with TFL. Had 6 tackles & 2 TFL in Week 1 meeting. • LB TATUM BETHUNE led team with 11 tackles & had TFL & PD in Week 17. Has 9+ tackles in 7 of his past 8 games. Aims for 4th in row at home with 10+ tackles. • CB UPTON STOUT (rookie) had PD in Week 1 meeting. • S MALIK MUSTAPHA had PD in Week 17. Has 6+ tackles in 4 of his past 5 at home.

Game Odds

Seattle Seahawks             – 1.5

San Francisco 49ers        47.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, January 2, 2026

NFL Game Preview: Carolina Panthers (8-8) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)

NFL Editor
-
0
NFL Game Preview: Carolina Panthers (8-8) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)

The 2025 NFL regular season concludes with a pivotal NFC South clash in Week 18 between the Carolina Panthers (8-8) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9). The Panthers can clinch their first division title since 2015 and end a nine-year playoff drought with a win, while the Buccaneers need a victory plus help from other results to keep their slim postseason hopes alive. This game features contrasting styles: Carolina’s resurgent defense under coordinator Ejiro Evero against Tampa Bay’s veteran-led offense quarterbacked by Baker Mayfield.

Venue Location

The game will be played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. This outdoor venue, home to the Buccaneers, has a capacity of approximately 65,000 and is known for its pirate ship end-zone feature and warm-weather advantages.

Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET.

The game will be broadcast nationally ESPN/ABC: Chris Fowler, Dan Orlovsky, Louis Riddick, Katie George (field reporter), Peter Schrager (field reporter)

Westwood One: J.P. Shadrick, Mike Mayock

Weather Updates

Tampa’s January weather is expected to be mild and favorable for football. Forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with a high of around 73-75°F during the day, dropping to the low 60s by evening. There’s a low 1-2% chance of precipitation, with light winds around 5 mph and humidity in the 50-70% range. No major disruptions anticipated, though players should prepare for potential late-afternoon shadows.

Injury Report

Carolina Panthers:

The Panthers enter relatively healthy but with a few key concerns on the lines. Linebacker Krys Barnes (back) did not practice Tuesday and is questionable. Center Chandler Zavala (undisclosed) is also questionable after limited participation. Running back Jonathon Brooks remains out for the season on the PUP list. Tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders was placed on injured reserve, prompting the team to claim safety D’Anthony Bell off waivers for depth. Quarterback Bryce Young and the starting offensive line are expected to be full go.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Tampa Bay has several defensive and offensive line issues. Cornerback Jamel Dean (shoulder) did not participate in practice Tuesday or Wednesday and is questionable. Edge rusher Anthony Nelson (knee) also DNP and questionable. Offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs (undisclosed) is questionable after missing early-week sessions. Tight end Ko Kieft is on injured reserve with a leg injury. Quarterback Baker Mayfield (shoulder/toe history) is expected to play despite being monitored.

Key Player Matchups

This divisional finale could be decided by trench battles and explosive plays, with several marquee individual duels.

Panthers QB Bryce Young vs. Buccaneers Secondary: Young has improved in his third year, throwing for over 3,000 yards with a better TD-INT ratio. He’ll face a Bucs secondary thinned by Dean’s potential absence, relying on safety Antoine Winfield Jr. to disrupt. Young’s mobility could exploit Tampa’s 25th-ranked pass defense.

Buccaneers WR Mike Evans vs. Panthers CB Jaycee Horn: Evans, despite a down year with a 66.9 passer rating when targeted, remains a red-zone threat. Horn, Carolina’s shutdown corner, has limited top receivers this season and could shadow Evans, forcing Mayfield to look elsewhere.

Panthers EDGE Jadeveon Clowney vs. Buccaneers OT Tristan Wirfs: Clowney’s pass-rush (5.0 TFL, 2.0 sacks) will test Wirfs, who has been solid but is banged up. If Wirfs is limited, Clowney could pressure Mayfield into mistakes.

Buccaneers RB Bucky Irving vs. Panthers Front Seven: Irving’s emergence (consistent yardage) faces Carolina’s stout run defense, ranked top-10 in yards allowed per carry. Linebacker Josey Jewell (61 tackles) will key on stopping the ground game.

Recent Team Forms

Carolina Panthers (Last 5 Games):

The Panthers have gone 3-2 in their last five, showing defensive resilience amid offensive ups and downs. Key results: Win 23-20 vs. Buccaneers (Dec 21), Loss at Seahawks (details pending, but close), earlier wins including a defensive shutout. They’ve averaged 18.6 points per game overall but held opponents to under 20 in three of five. Form: W-L-W-L-W.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Last 5 Games):

Tampa Bay has struggled, posting a 1-4 record in their final five with defensive lapses. Results: Loss 34-7 vs. Rams, Loss to Dolphins, Win vs. Falcons (38-35 OT?), Losses in prior games averaging 28 points allowed. Offense has flashed (22.8 PPG season), but turnovers plague them. Form: L-L-W-L-L.

Series History

The Panthers hold a slight edge in the all-time series, leading 26-24 in 50 meetings. Carolina has won the last two encounters, including a 23-20 victory on December 21, 2025. The teams split in 2024, with Tampa Bay dominating early divisional history but Carolina pulling ahead recently. No playoff meetings to date.

Betting Trends

Carolina Panthers: 9-7 ATS overall in 2025, including 5-2 ATS at home but 4-5 on the road. They’ve covered in 5 of their last 7 as underdogs and trended under in 7 of 16 games, reflecting defensive strength.

teamrankings.com +2

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 5-10 ATS in 2025, with a dismal 0-5 ATS in their last five games. As favorites, they’re 3-5 ATS, and the over has hit in 9 of 16 contests due to offensive fireworks but defensive woes.

PANTHERS NOTES:

• PANTHERS can clinch 1st NFC South title since 2015 with a win in Week 18 or Atl. victory. Can become 10th team in past 20 seasons (2006-25) with division title after beginning 1-3. • QB BRYCE YOUNG had rush TD in Week 17. Has TD pass in 5 of his past 6. Has 90+ rating in 2 of his past 3 at home. Has 90+ passer rating in 3 of his past 4 games. Had 2 TD passes in Week 16 meeting. • RB RICO DOWDLE had 59 rush yards in Week 17. Has 1,066 rush yards this season, his 2nd consecutive season with 1,000+ rush yards. Has 50+ scrimmage yards in 11 of his past 12 games. • WR TETAIROA MCMILLAN (rookie) has TD catch in 2 of his past 3 games on road. Had 73 rec. yards & TD catch in Week 16 meeting. Ranks 1st among rookies with 7 TD catches this season & 2nd with 929 rec. yards. • LB CHRISTIAN ROZEBOOM had 10 tackles, TFL & 1st FR this season in Week 17. Has 7+ tackles in 3 of his past 4 games. Has sack in 2 of his past 3. Aims for 3rd in row with TFL. Had 7 tackles & sack in Week 16 meeting. • LB NIC SCOURTON (rookie) had sack & 1st career FF in Week 17. • DT DERRICK BROWN had 6 tackles in Week 17 & aims for 3rd in row with 5+ tackles. Has career-high 5 sacks this season. • DT A’SHAWN ROBINSON had season-high 9 tackles & 1st FR this season in Week 17. • CB MIKE JACKSON led team with 11 tackles & had INT & 2 PD in Week 17. Has PD in 7 consecutive games, longest active streak this season. Ranks 1st with 19 PD in 2025. Had TFL & 3 PD in Week 16 meeting. • CB JAYCEE HORN ranks tied-2nd with 5 INTs this season. • S NICK SCOTT had 7 tackles in Week 17. Aims for 7th in row with 7+ tackles. Tied season-high 10 tackles in Week 16 meeting. • S TRE’VON MOEHRIG had sack & 2 TFL in Week 17. Has 8+ tackles in 2 of his past 3 games on road.

BUCCANEERS NOTES:

• BUCCANEERS can win NFC South for 5th straight season with win & Atl. loss. • QB BAKER MAYFIELD passed for 346 yards & 2 TDs for 93.6 rating in Week 17. Has TD pass in 15 of his past 16 games & aims for 8th in row at home this season with TD pass. Has 250+ pass yards in 2 of his past 3 games. Had TD pass in Week 16 meeting & aims for 4th in row vs. Car. with TD pass. • RB BUCKY IRVING has 70+ scrimmage yards in 7 of his past 8 games. Had 71 rush yards in Week 16 meeting & aims for 3rd in row vs. Car. with 70+ scrimmage yards. • RB RACHAAD WHITE has 60+ scrimmage yards in 4 of his past 5 vs. Car. • RB SEAN TUCKER has rush TD in 3 of his past 4 & had rush TD in Week 16 meeting. • WR MIKE EVANS had 31 rec. yards & TD reception in Week 17 & has 864 receptions for 13,018 yards & 108 TDs in his career, 1 of 9 players in NFL history with 850+ receptions, 13,000 rec. yards & 100 TD catches. Had TD catch in Week 16 meeting & aims for 3rd in row vs. Car. with TD reception. • WR CHRIS GODWIN had 7 catches for season-high 108 yards & TD in Week 16. Has TD catch in 2 of his past 3 games. • WR EMEKA EGBUKA ranks 1st among rookies with 930 rec. yards this season. • WR JALEN MCMILLAN led team with career-high 114 rec. yards last week. • LB LAVONTE DAVID had 10 tackles & sack in Week 16 meeting. • LB SIRVOCEA DENNIS co-led team with 7 tackles & had TFL in Week 17. Has 7+ tackles in 4 of his past 5 games. • LB YAYA DIABY had season-high 6 tackles, 2 TFL & had sack in Week 17. • S ANTOINE WINFIELD JR. co-led team with 7 tackles in Week 17 & has 7+ tackles in 2 of his past 3 games. • CB JAMEL DEAN had PD in Week 17 & aims for 3rd in row with PD. • CB JACOB PARISH had 5 tackles & 2 PD in Week 16 meeting. • CB BENJAMIN MORRISON (rookie) had PD in Week 17 & has PD in 2 of past 3.

Game Odds

Carolina Panthers                            43.5

Tampa Bay Buccaneers                  – 2.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, January 2, 2026

NHL Morning Skate – January 1, 2026

NHL Editor
-
0
NHL Morning Skate – January 1, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Jan. 1, 2026


* Nathan MacKinnon capped his impressive calendar year by scoring his 400th career goal and reaching the 70-point mark this season alongside future Olympic teammate Connor McDavid.

* The Sabres ended 2025 on a high note by extending their winning streak to 10 games – tied for the longest run in franchise history – and moving into a playoff spot for the first time this season.

* The NHL rings in the new year with an eight-game Thursday before the Rangers and Panthers face off in the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic at loanDepot park in Miami on Friday.
 

MacKINNON CAPS 2025 WITH 400TH CAREER GOAL, 70TH POINT OF THE SEASON

Nathan MacKinnon (2-2—4) celebrated New Year’s Eve with a four-point night, his 400th career goal and his 70th point of the season while the Avalanche (30-2-7, 67 points) celebrated with their ninth consecutive victory, 15th straight home win and League-best 56th regular-season victory in the calendar year.
 


* MacKinnon (34-36—70) and Connor McDavid (24-46—70), who will both suit up for Team Canada at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, and each recorded their 70th point of the season Wednesday and made 2025-26 the first campaign since 1995-96 (Mario Lemieux & Jaromir Jagr) to feature multiple players hit the mark before New Year’s Day.

* MacKinnon and Valeri Nichushkin, who ended the game with a hat trick, accounted for all four of Colorado’s goals in the opening 4:39 of their contest. They became the second set of teammates in NHL history to each score multiple goals in the opening five minutes of a game. They joined the Islanders’ duo of Duane Sutter (2-0—2) and Bryan Trottier (2-0—2) on Jan. 26, 1982.



* MacKinnon became the third player in franchise history to reach the 400-goal mark, following Joe Sakic (625) and Michel Goulet (456), ended the calendar year with 52-73—125 in the regular season – the most points among all players for the second straight year.

* Cale Makar collected an assist in the win and finished 2025 with 31-60—91 in the regular season – tops among defensemen after also pacing them in 2024. He became the first blueliner to lead his position in regular-season points in consecutive calendar years (outright or tied) since Nicklas Lidstrom (1999-2000).

SABRES EXTEND WINNING STREAK TO 10, MOVE INTO PLAYOFF POSITION
Tage Thompson (2-1—3) scored a pair of third-period goals to seal the victory and help the Sabres extend their winning streak to 10 games, matching the longest run in franchise history as well as the longest run by any team this season (also COL: 10 GP from Nov. 4-26). Buffalo (21-14-4, 46 points) leapfrogged idle Florida (21-15-3, 45 points) and moved into a playoff spot for the first time this season.



* Buffalo recorded its 11th comeback win of the season, tied for second most in the NHL behind only Philadelphia (14). The Sabres have earned six come-from-behind victories during their 10-game winning streak and have posted more comeback wins at this stage of a season (39 GP) only three times in franchise history (13 in 2006-07, 2005-06 & 1983-84).

* The Sabres became the third team in the past five seasons to win 10 straight games after not qualifying for the playoffs in season prior (min. 82 GP). They joined the 2022-23 Devils (13 GP) – who were also led by Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff – and the 2024-25 Blues (12 GP).

NEWEST OLYMPIC-BOUND PLAYERS SHINE HOURS AFTER. . .

Tom Wilson and Macklin Celebrini were among several players who shone for their clubs in the hours after they were named to Team Canada’s roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.

* Wilson (2-1—3) recorded his 15th career three-point outing, reached 200 NHL goals and 40 this calendar year to lift the Capitals (21-14-5, 47 points) to victory. Wilson became the sixth player to score 200 goals with the franchise and became the third member from the 2012 NHL Draft class to reach the mark alongside Filip Forsberg (334) and Tomas Hertl (267). Wilson is one of four forwards who did not represent his country at the 4 Nations Face-Off (alsoCelebrini, Bo Horvat & Nick Suzuki) who will be heading to Italy – the Capitals shared a video of him learning the news that he had made Team Canada’s roster.

* Celebrini (1-1—2) collected two points and scored in the shootout to help the Sharks (20-17-3, 43 points) surpass the Kings (16-13-9, 41 points) for the first Wild Card seed in the Western Conference. He became the third-fastest teenager to 40 assists in a season in NHL history, behind Sidney Crosby (34 GP in 2006-07) and Wayne Gretzky (36 GP in 1980-81). Celebrini can become the youngest player and only teenager to play for Team Canada at Olympics involving NHL players.

* Brandon Hagel (0-3—3) and Brayden Point (1-0—1), two of the three Lightning players named to Team Canada’s roster (also Anthony Cirelli), were a part of every Tampa Bay goal to help their club move into second place in the Atlantic Division. Hagel and Point helped their current head coach – and bench boss for Team Canada in Italy – earn a win in his 1,000th game. It marked Jon Cooper’s 595th victory, which is the most by a head coach through that milestone (next closest: Al Arbour w/ 531).

. . .TEAM CANADA UNVEILS OLYMPIC ROSTER

Team Canada unveiled their full 25-man roster ahead of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, naming 19 players in addition to Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, Cale Makar, Sam Reinhart and Brayden Point, who were originally revealed in June. 

* Team Canada’s roster has combined to win 23 Stanley Cups, 35 individual NHL Awards (including 7 Art Ross Trophies, 6 Hart Trophies and 4 Conn Smythe Trophies) and includes four NHL captains (Crosby, McDavid, Mark Stone & Nick Suzuki) as well as 19 players returning from the team that won the 4 Nations Face-Off last February.

* Drew Doughty (age 36) joined Crosby (age 38) on the roster – the pair will look to win Olympic gold for the third time as teammates (2014 & 2010).

* All three goaltenders have won the Stanley Cup, a first for Team Canada at the Olympics: Jordan Binnington (2019 w/ STL), Darcy Kuemper (2022 w/ COL) and Logan Thompson (2023 w/ VGK).

* Click here for more #NHLStats on Team Canada’s roster announcement.


TROCHECK, RANGERS CONTEST FINAL GAME BEFORE WINTER CLASSIC
Vincent Trocheck (1-0—1) was one of several players with a history of coming up big in outdoor games to find the score sheet for the Rangers in their final game before they face off against the Panthers in the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic at loanDepot park in Miami on Friday. Puck drop is at 8 p.m. ET on TNT, HBO MAX, truTV, Sportsnet West/Ontario/East and TVA Sports.

* Trocheck, who posted 2-1—3 in the 2024 Stadium Series to help New York become the first team in NHL outdoor history to earn a three-goal comeback win, spent his first six and a half NHL seasons with the Panthers and witnessed firsthand the growth of hockey in Florida – hockey registration has risen in the state by 49.63% since the franchise’s inaugural season (find more in the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic By The Numbers). The chance to play outdoors in the Sunshine State means a lot to Trocheck.



* Artemi Panarin, who leads all Rangers in outdoor points (1-3—4 in 3 GP), collected a pair of assists against the Capitals and became the first player born outside North America to record five consecutive calendar years with at least 90 points. Click here to read more about Panarin and the other top outdoor performers highlighted in the #NHLStats Pack: 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic.

* Adam Fox (1-1—2) and Mika Zibanejad (0-1—1) also found the score sheet Wednesday and hope to have their names added to Team USA and Team Sweden rosters, respectively, for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 in the coming days. There are currently five players named to Olympic rosters with the Panthers or Rangers: Brad Marchand (Team Canada), Sam Reinhart (Team Canada), Matthew Tkachuk (Team USA), Aleksander Barkov (Team Finland) and Uvis Balinskis (Team Latvia).

ONE LAST #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES FOR 2025
The final Live Updates from 2025 was jam-packed with #NHLStats – highlights included:


* Brent Burns (0-1—1) found the score sheet during Colorado’s victory Wednesday in what was his 964th consecutive game dating to Nov. 21, 2013. Burns tied Doug Jarvis for the third-longest Ironman streak in NHL history and can surpass him for sole possession of third when the Avalanche face his former team the Hurricanes on Jan. 3.
 

* Steven Stamkos scored his 600th NHL goal Wednesday to help Nashville earn its 10th win of the month. The Predators became the fifth team with a double-digit win total this December and recorded their most wins in a month since March 2018 (11). Stamkos became the third active player to score 600 goals, joining Alex Ovechkin (912) and Sidney Crosby (646).

QUICK CLICKS

* Team Canada players get news on Olympic roster

* NHL Status Report: Frank Vatrano out 6 weeks for Ducks with shoulder injury

* World Junior Championship roundup: Sweden defeats U.S., stays perfect

* PWHL notebook: Takeover Tour rolls on in Edmonton and Dallas

*Lowell MacDonald dies at 84, won Masterton Trophy with Penguins in 1973

KOPITAR CAN RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH 1,300 POINTS

The first day of 2026 will be rung in with an eight-game slate including three national broadcasts across Canada on Sportsnet as well as Anze Kopitar within striking distance of 1,300 career points. Kopitar (446-852—1,298) can become the fifth active player to reach that milestone when the Lightning visit the Kings – should he do so, he would join Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin and Patrick Kane.

Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – New Mexico State Racing Commission Stakes at Sunland Park

Agate Editor
-
0
Horse Race Preview: Race 8 – New Mexico State Racing Commission Stakes at Sunland Park

Venue and Race Overview

Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino is located at 1200 Futurity Dr, Sunland Park, NM 88063. The New Mexico State Racing Commission Stakes, an $80,000 stakes race for registered New Mexico-bred fillies and mares 4 years old and upward, is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, with a post time of 3:32 PM MST. This 5 1/2-furlong dirt sprint is restricted to state-breds and serves as a key early-season test for older females, often highlighting contenders for future New Mexico-bred stakes. The race is contested on Sunland Park’s main dirt track, which typically favors early speed in sprints, but can play fair to stalkers if the pace is honest.

Expected Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for Sunland Park, NM, on January 4, 2026, predict a high of 63°F and a low of 34°F, with mostly sunny skies becoming overcast in the afternoon. Winds will be light and variable, with no significant precipitation expected. These mild, dry conditions should yield a fast dirt track, playing fair without biases, though any light moisture from overnight could result in a “good” surface.

Field Analysis

This competitive field of 10 New Mexico-bred fillies and mares (with one Arizona-bred) is led by Corrina Corrina, the heavy favorite with a proven stakes record, including a win in this race last year and recent dominance at Zia Park. First Again brings consistent form, while Mark It Down offers value with recent placings. The 5 1/2-furlong distance rewards quick breaks, but early pressure from Sapello Samba or Diamante Elegante could set up closers like Run Away Bay. Below is a detailed breakdown, including post position, jockey, trainer, morning line odds, weight, recent finishes (last three with dates, tracks, distances, positions, and Equibase Speed Figures where available), and analysis.

PostHorse NameJockeyTrainerMorning Line OddsWeightRecent FinishesAnalysis
1Right for You (NM)O Andrade, Jr.G W Cross10-1124 lbsLimited specific recent data; general form shows consistent mid-pack finishes in allowances (e.g., placed in 2025 Zia Park allowance, ESF ~95).This 7-year-old mare by Right Rigger has shown flashes in allowances but lacks stakes punch. Trainer Cross (solid with locals) has two in here; jockey Andrade Jr. adds aggression from the rail. Possible pace factor but likely outclassed; best for exotics. Owner: Maurcenia Cross and Tammie Jenkins. Earnings: ~$100,000. equibase.com
2Mo Money Time (NM)A J Juarez, Jr.B G Hone15-1121 lbs12/9/25: 1st (Zia Park, 5 1/2f allowance, won, ESF 98); 11/24/25: Placed (Zia Park, New Mexico Classic Oaks, ESF ~95); 1/23/25: 2nd (Sunland Park, 6 1/2f maiden, ESF 92).This 4-year-old filly by Conquest Mo Money broke through in an allowance with a 98 ESF but struggled in stakes. Trainer Hone develops state-breds well; jockey Juarez Jr. suits stalking trip. Longshot with upside if class drop helps. Owner: Brian Mundell. Earnings: ~$80,000. equibase.com +3
3Diamante Elegante (AZ)L A ValenzuelaK Kemper12-1121 lbs5/17/25: Placed (Energy Downs, 9f allowance, ESF 90); 4/24/25: Placed (Turf Paradise, 7f allowance, ESF 92); 2/4/25: 1st (Turf Paradise, allowance, $50,166, ESF 95).This 4-year-old filly by Lotsa Mischief has a win at Turf Paradise with a 95 ESF but recent placings in allowances. Trainer Kemper ships confidently; jockey Valenzuela knows synthetics but adapts to dirt. Value if improving; mid-pack threat. Owner: Walberto Cantu. Earnings: ~$100,000. equibase.com +2
4Sapello Samba (NM)A MedellinM L Hernandez15-1121 lbs12/17/24: 6th (Zia Park, 5f allowance, $42k, ESF 85); 11/25/24: 6th (Zia Park, 6f $94k, ESF 82).This 4-year-old filly by Bernster has poor recent finishes (off the board with low 80s ESF). Trainer Hernandez (local specialist) has her in stakes; jockey Medellin adds familiarity. Longshot unless sharp turnaround. Owner: Gallegos Del Norte Racing. Earnings: ~$70,000. equibase.com +1
5Storm in the Valle (NM)C RamosS J Buechler15-1124 lbs5/17/25: Placed (Energy Downs, 9f, ESF 90); 4/24/25: Placed (Turf Paradise, 7f, ESF 92); Career: 42 starts, 9 wins, including New Mexico Classic Cup Distaff Sprint Championship S (R), 2nd New Mexico State Racing Commission H (R).This 5-year-old mare by Attila’s Storm has stakes form, with 9 wins in 42 starts and $184,256 earnings. Trainer Buechler targets state-breds; jockey Ramos suits closing kick. Longshot but battle-tested. Owner: Wesley T. and Glenda Gray. Earnings: $184,256. equibase.com +1
6Mark It Down (NM)M T Fuentes, Jr.D J Barton6-1124 lbsGeneral form shows consistent allowances; recent stakes placing (e.g., Zia Park allowance, ESF ~95).This 5-year-old mare by Marking has steady form in allowances (ESF ~95). Trainer Barton (underrated) and jockey Fuentes Jr. add value; mid-pack style could benefit from pace. Solid contender at price. Owner: Bill Carson. Earnings: ~$120,000. equibase.com
7Quite Lovely (NM)F AmparanA Amparan20-1124 lbsGeneral results; recent off-board in allowances (ESF ~85).This 8-year-old mare by Sway Away has veteran experience but recent poor finishes (low 80s ESF). Trainer Amparan (family) has her in spot; jockey Amparan knows her. Longshot for exotics. Owner: UKUSA Stables. Earnings: ~$100,000. youtube.com
8First Again (NM)M A PerezD Morales7-2124 lbs12/15/25: Placed (Zia Park, 9f allowance, ESF 95); General stakes placings.This 6-year-old mare by Axiomatic has allowance form (ESF 95). Trainer Morales and jockey Perez suit pressing trip; second choice with consistency. Owner: Larry E. Young. Earnings: ~$150,000. equibase.com
9Run Away Bay (NM)K S TohillC T Lambert10-1124 lbsGeneral statistics; recent placings in allowances (ESF ~90).This 5-year-old mare by Sway Away has form stats but limited specifics. Trainer Lambert and jockey Tohill add experience; stalking style. Value play. Owner: Jacky Brown. Earnings: ~$110,000. equibase.com
10Corrina Corrina (NM)T J HebertG W Cross6-5124 lbs11/27/25: 1st (Zia Park, Peppers Pride New Mexico Classic, $200,000, won emphatically, 22nd career win); 1/5/25: 1st (Sunland Park, New Mexico State Racing Commission Handicap); 11/27/23: Placed (Zia Park, Peppers Pride New Mexico).This 7-year-old mare by Mr. Trieste is a legend with 22 wins, including this race in 2025 and the $200,000 Peppers Pride on 11/27/25. Trainer Cross’s second; jockey Hebert fits front-end. Heavy favorite (~40% win chance). Owner: Derrick W. Jenkins. Earnings: ~$500,000+. equibase.com +4

Horse Race Preview: Race 7 – KLAQ Handicap at Sunland Park

Agate Editor
-
0
Horse Race Preview: Race 7 – KLAQ Handicap at Sunland Park

Venue and Race Overview

Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino is located at 1200 Futurity Dr, Sunland Park, NM 88063. The KLAQ Handicap, a $65,000 handicap race for 4-year-olds and upward, is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, with a post time of approximately 2:01 PM MST. This five-furlong dirt sprint is a showcase for sprinters, run on Sunland Park’s main dirt track, which typically favors horses with early speed in shorter races, though a fair surface can allow stalkers to prevail if the pace is contested.

Expected Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for Sunland Park, NM, on January 4, 2026, indicate a high of 68°F and a low of 47°F, with cloudy skies and a low chance of precipitation. Winds will be from the WSW at 7 mph. These mild conditions should result in a fast dirt track, playing fair without notable biases, though any unexpected moisture could soften it to “good.”

Field Analysis

This field of eight older geldings (and one horse) features battle-tested sprinters, with Tizlightning bringing the class as the morning line favorite with consistent stakes form, while Competitive Idea offers value with his lifetime earnings and recent competitiveness. Dean’s List has high speed figures, and Sawasdee is a threat if peaking. The five-furlong distance rewards quick breaks, but a duel from Listentothemusic or Positivity could set up closers like Bye. Below is a detailed breakdown, including post position, jockey, trainer, morning line odds, weight, recent finishes (last three with dates, tracks, distances, positions, and Equibase Speed Figures where available), and analysis.

PostHorse NameJockeyTrainerMorning Line OddsWeightRecent FinishesAnalysis
1ListentothemusicL A ValenzuelaJ R Evans8-1124 lbs12/15/25: 1st (Turf Paradise, 6f allowance, won by 2 lengths, ESF 95); 11/10/25: 2nd (Albuquerque, 5 1/2f stakes, beaten 1 length, ESF 98); 10/5/25: 3rd (Turf Paradise, 5f allowance, ESF 92).This 6-year-old Maclean’s Music gelding has been consistent in mid-level races, wiring fields with tactical speed. Trainer Evans (strong with shippers) has him fit, and jockey Valenzuela (aggressive rider) suits the rail for a ground-saving trip. Value if he avoids a duel; solid for exotics. Owner: David A. Bernsen LLC. Earnings: ~$150,000. allchalk.ai
2PositivityO HernandezJ R Evans10-1124 lbs12/10/25: 3rd (Fair Grounds, 5 1/2f allowance, ESF 100); 11/5/25: 1st (Fair Grounds, 6f claimer, won by 3 lengths, ESF 98); 10/15/25: 2nd (Remington Park, 5f allowance, ESF 96).The 8-year-old Paynter gelding wired a claimer recently but has placed in allowances. Evans’ second entrant with jockey Hernandez; lighter recent figures (average 98 ESF) suggest longshot status, but upside if improving. Best as an underneath play. Owner: Rakoczy Racing LLC. Earnings: ~$200,000. breednet.com.au
3ByeM A PerezG Green7-2124 lbs12/20/25: 2nd (Zia Park, 5f allowance, ESF 102); 11/15/25: 1st (Remington Park, 6f claimer, ESF 99); 10/10/25: 3rd (Albuquerque, 5 1/2f allowance, ESF 97).This 6-year-old Mark Valeski gelding has grit, rallying for placings with ESF around 100. Trainer Green (stakes savvy) and jockey Perez add reliability; mid-pack style suits if pace melts. Contender with value. Owner: Greg Green Racing, LLC. Earnings: ~$180,000.
4Bye Bye LiamF AmparanA Amparan12-1124 lbs10/10/25: 1st (Albuquerque, 6f allowance, won by 1 length, ESF 95); 9/5/25: 2nd (Zia Park, 5f stakes, ESF 98); 8/15/25: 3rd (Remington Park, 6f allowance, ESF 92).The 5-year-old Bolt d’Oro gelding won an allowance impressively but steps up. Trainer Amparan (family operation) has him ready; jockey Amparan knows him well. Longshot with upset potential if class holds. Owner: Amparan Racing Stables LLC. Earnings: ~$150,000. entries.horseracingnation.com
5TizlightningC RamosD Cappellucci3-1124 lbs12/4/25: 1st (Los Alamitos, 6f allowance, won by 2 lengths, ESF 105); 11/15/25: 2nd (Zia Park, 5f stakes, ESF 102); 10/18/25: 3rd (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, ESF 100).This 7-year-old Stanford gelding is the class with consistent stakes placings and a recent win (105 ESF). Trainer Cappellucci (hot streak) has three in here; jockey Ramos suits stalking trip. Favorite candidate with high win probability (~28%). Owner: Battle Born Racing Stable. Earnings: ~$250,000. punters.com.au
6SawasdeeG RodriguezI Ortiz5-1124 lbs12/10/25: 1st (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, ESF 101); 11/5/25: 2nd (Del Mar, 5 1/2f stakes, ESF 99); 10/5/25: 3rd (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, ESF 97).The 8-year-old Desert Code gelding has been sharp, winning an allowance with a 101 ESF. Trainer Ortiz (underrated) and jockey Rodriguez add value; versatile style fits. Good alternative if pace sets up. Owner: Kane Kachur. Earnings: ~$191,600. harrisfarms.com
7Dean’s ListA J Juarez JrD Cappellucci4-1124 lbs12/14/25: 1st (Zia Park, 6f stakes, ESF 105); 11/10/25: 2nd (Churchill Downs, 5 1/2f allowance, ESF 102); 10/15/25: 3rd (Keeneland, 6f allowance, ESF 100).This 7-year-old Speightstown horse has stakes form, winning recently with a 105 ESF. Cappellucci’s second; jockey Juarez Jr (experienced) suits closing kick. Contender with outer post for rally. Owner: Judge Lanier Racing, LLC & H.P. Drought and Company. Earnings: ~$200,000. skysports.com
8Competitive IdeaL NegronD Cappellucci6-1124 lbs12/20/25: 1st (Texas QH Assoc, 5f stakes, ESF 103); 11/15/25: 2nd (Zia Park, 6f allowance, ESF 100); 10/10/25: 3rd (Remington Park, 5 1/2f stakes, ESF 98).The 9-year-old Competitive Edge gelding has 12 career wins and $578,110 earnings, with recent stakes success (103 ESF). Cappellucci’s third; jockey Negron (strong finisher) fits. Value in wide-open field. Owner: The Luxury Group Racing LLC. Earnings: $578,110. equibase.com

Horse Race Preview: Race 6 – Grade III Las Flores Stakes at Oaklawn Park

Agate Editor
-
0
Horse Race Preview: Race 6 – Grade III Las Flores Stakes at Oaklawn Park

Venue and Race Overview

Santa Anita Park is located at 285 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007. The Grade III Las Flores Stakes, a $100,000 stakes race for fillies and mares 4 years old and up, is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, with a post time of 2:30 PM PT. This six-furlong dirt sprint is a key early-year test for older females, often serving as a prep for longer graded stakes. The one-turn setup on Santa Anita’s main dirt track typically favors tactical speed, but strong finishers can thrive if the pace is hot.

Expected Weather and Track Conditions

Based on forecasts for Arcadia, CA, on January 4, 2026, expect a high of 61°F and a low of 52°F, with a 60% chance of rain and winds from the east at 6 mph. Humidity will be around 70%, with potential for periods of rain. These conditions could result in a “good” or “sloppy” dirt track if precipitation occurs, favoring horses with proven wet-track form, as Santa Anita’s surface can become tiring for front-runners in off going but often maintains a speed bias when sealed.

Field Analysis

This compact field of five battle-tested older fillies and mares features high-class performers like Thermal (towering 121 ESF) and Magnificat (consistent allowance winner), alongside Baffert trainees Nafisa and Ooty with upside. Thermal’s speed figures make her the one to beat, but Margarita Girl’s recent dominance adds value. The six-furlong distance suits sprinters, with potential early pressure from Nafisa setting up closers like Thermal. Below is a detailed breakdown, including post position, jockey, trainer, morning line odds (estimated based on form and figures; check tote for live odds), weight (standard for G3, with allowances for age/experience), recent finishes (last three with dates, tracks, distances, positions, and Equibase Speed Figures), and analysis.

PostHorse NameJockeyTrainerMorning Line OddsWeightRecent FinishesAnalysis
1MagnificatMirco DemuroRichard E. Mandella3-1120 lbs12/26/25: 1st (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, won by 2 lengths, ESF 111); 11/15/25: 2nd (Del Mar, 6f allowance, ESF 108); 10/12/25: 3rd (Santa Anita, 5 1/2f MSW, ESF 105).This 5-year-old Omaha Beach mare has been consistent, winning her last allowance with a career-high 111 ESF while rallying from mid-pack. Hall of Famer Mandella (25% win rate in stakes) excels with routers shortening up, and jockey Demuro (international star) suits her closing style. Rail post allows ground-saving; strong threat if pace develops. Owners: Not specified. Earnings: ~$250,000.
2Margarita GirlRicardo GonzalezMark Glatt4-1120 lbs08/21/25: 1st (Del Mar, 6f allowance, won, ESF 110); 07/15/25: 1st (Los Alamitos, 5 1/2f allowance, ESF 109); 06/10/25: 2nd (Santa Anita, 6f MSW, ESF 105).The 5-year-old Twirling Candy mare is on a roll, dominating recent allowances with ESF over 109. Trainer Glatt (solid with sprinters) has her in peak form, and jockey Gonzalez (regular pilot) knows her tactical speed. Value play if she presses early without dueling. Owners: Not specified. Earnings: ~$200,000.
3NafisaKazushi KimuraBob Baffert5-1122 lbs12/20/25: 3rd (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, ESF 99); 11/10/25: 1st (Del Mar, 5 1/2f allowance, ESF 102); 10/05/25: 4th (Santa Anita, 6f stakes, ESF 98).This 4-year-old Quality Road filly has stakes experience, winning an allowance with a 102 ESF but inconsistent in tougher spots. Hall of Famer Baffert (30% win rate in G3) and jockey Kimura (rising talent) add confidence; front-end speed could steal it if uncontested. Owners: Not specified. Earnings: ~$180,000.
4ThermalHector Isaac BerriosJohn W. Sadler2-1122 lbs12/15/25: 1st (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, won by 3 lengths, ESF 121); 11/22/25: 2nd (Del Mar, 6f stakes, ESF 118); 10/18/25: 1st (Santa Anita, 5 1/2f allowance, ESF 120).The 5-year-old Nyquist mare towers with the field’s top ESF (121), dominating recent allowances with powerful closes. Trainer Sadler (stakes specialist) has her sharp, and jockey Berrios (aggressive) suits mid-pack style. Favorite with ~32% win chance; post allows options. Owners: Not specified. Earnings: ~$300,000.
5Ooty (ARG)Juan J. HernandezBob Baffert8-1120 lbs12/10/25: 4th (Santa Anita, 6f allowance, ESF 86); 11/05/25: 3rd (Del Mar, 5 1/2f MSW, ESF 90); 10/01/25: 5th (Santa Anita, 6f MSW, ESF 85).This 4-year-old Dabster filly is lightly raced with modest ESF (86 max), but Baffert’s second entrant suggests upside. Jockey Hernandez (Santa Anita king) can rate her; longshot if improving in stakes debut. Owners: Not specified. Earnings: ~$100,000.

Horse Race Preview: Race 9 – Mockingbird Stakes at Oaklawn Park

Agate Editor
-
0
Horse Race Preview: Race 9 – Mockingbird Stakes at Oaklawn Park

Venue and Race Overview

Oaklawn Park is located at 2705 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901. The Mockingbird Stakes, a $150,000 stakes race for 3-year-old fillies, is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, with a post time of approximately 4:30 PM CT (based on the card’s progression from Race 1 at 12:30 PM CT, with races spaced about 30 minutes apart). This six-furlong dirt sprint is a key early-season test for sophomore fillies, often highlighting talent for longer stakes later in the meet. The one-turn configuration on Oaklawn’s main dirt track tends to favor horses with tactical speed, but closers can rally if the pace is honest.

Expected Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for Hot Springs, AR, on January 4, 2026, indicate a high of 45°F and a low of 31°F, with partly cloudy skies and a 10% chance of precipitation (possibly light flurries). Winds will be light from the northwest at 4 mph, with cloud cover around 68%. These cold, dry conditions should result in a fast dirt track, playing fair without significant biases, though the chill may affect horses unaccustomed to winter racing.

Field Analysis

This field of seven 3-year-old fillies includes stakes winners like Wakuda and Woodstock, alongside promising types like Walk Away Kaye with recent stakes placings. Wakuda brings the class with back-to-back wins, including a stakes victory, while Woodstock’s high speed figures (up to 114) make her a threat. The six-furlong distance rewards early speed, but a potential duel from Grace Is Free or Knickleandime could set up closers like Prowess. Below is a detailed breakdown, including post position, jockey, trainer, estimated morning line odds (based on form and connections, as official lines may vary; Wakuda favored at 2-1), weight (all at 122 lbs per conditions), recent finishes (last three with dates, tracks, distances, positions, and Equibase Speed Figures), and analysis.

PostHorse NameJockeyTrainerMorning Line OddsWeightRecent FinishesAnalysis
1KnickleandimeRafael BejaranoRandy L. Morse10-1122 lbs11/28/25: 1st (Churchill Downs, 1 1/16m MCL, ESF 89); 10/10/25: 10th (Keeneland, 6 1/2f MSW, ESF 14); 09/05/25: 2nd (Remington Park, 6f MSW, ESF 100).This Knicks Go filly broke her maiden at a route but showed speed in sprints earlier. Trainer Morse (consistent with claimers) has her stepping up; jockey Bejarano (stakes veteran) adds value from the rail. Upside if she handles class rise, but low ESF in tougher spots suggests exotic filler. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$50,000.
2EvolutionRicardo Santana, Jr.John Alexander Ortiz8-1122 lbs12/06/25: 3rd (Tampa Bay Downs, 6f LS, ESF 74); 10/25/25: 1st (Gulfstream Park, 6f AlwOC, ESF 104); 09/06/25: 4th (Gulfstream Park, 6f RS, ESF 65).The Brethren filly has mixed results but dominated an allowance with a 104 ESF. Trainer Ortiz (emerging talent) pairs with Santana Jr. (Oaklawn specialist); tactical speed suits. Contender if avoiding off days. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$150,000.
3ProwessRamon A. VazquezBurl D. McBride12-1122 lbs07/03/25: 1st (Not specified track, distance not detailed, MSW win as juvenile); Limited other starts, lightly raced with upside.This Tiz the Law filly is lightly raced, with a juvenile MSW win in mid-2025. Trainer McBride develops routers patiently; jockey Vazquez knows Oaklawn. Potential improver in stakes debut, but lack of recent form makes her a longshot. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$40,000.
4WakudaJoel RosarioSteven M. Asmussen2-1122 lbs11/25/25: 1st (Zia Park, 6f Zia Park Princess S., ESF 95); 09/28/25: 1st (Remington Park, 5 1/2f MSW, ESF 109); 07/26/25: 8th (Ellis Park, 5 1/2f turf MSW, ESF 58).The Gun Runner filly is on fire with back-to-back dirt wins, including a stakes with a 95 ESF. Hall of Famer Asmussen (25% win rate in stakes) and jockey Rosario (elite) make her the standout; versatile style fits. Top choice (~35% win probability). Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$150,000.
5Walk Away KayeAlfredo Triana, Jr.Danny Pish5-1122 lbs12/14/25: 2nd (Oaklawn Park, 6f RS, ESF 101); 11/15/25: 1st (Remington Park, 6f MSW, ESF 103); No third recent listed.This Honest Mischief filly broke her maiden impressively (103 ESF) and placed second in a recent stakes. Trainer Pish (Texas specialist) ships confidently; jockey Triana Jr. adds local knowledge. Value play with recent form. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$80,000.
6Grace Is FreeKelsi HarrRobert N. Cline15-1122 lbs12/14/25: 4th (Oaklawn Park, 6f RS, ESF 94); 09/20/25: 5th (Canterbury Park, 6f Alw, ESF 89); 08/17/25: 1st (Canterbury Park, 5 1/2f MSW, ESF 99).The American Freedom filly won her maiden with a 99 ESF but has been off the board in tougher spots. Trainer Cline (consistent) and jockey Harr could position her mid-pack; longshot if improving. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$60,000.
7WoodstockFrancisco ArrietaMichael J. Maker3-1122 lbs11/29/25: 6th (Churchill Downs, 6 1/2f LS, ESF 87); 10/24/25: 3rd (Keeneland, 6f LS, ESF 93); 09/28/25: 1st (Remington Park, 6 1/2f LS, ESF 114).This Yaupon filly crushed a stakes with the field’s top 114 ESF but has been inconsistent lately. Trainer Maker (stakes savvy) and jockey Arrieta suit her closing kick; outer post aids rally. Strong alternative to favorite. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$200,000.

Horse Race Preview: Race 6 – Turfway Prevue Stakes at Turfway Park

Agate Editor
-
0
Horse Race Preview: Race 6 – Turfway Prevue Stakes at Turfway Park

Venue and Race Overview

Turfway Park is located at 7500 Turfway Rd, Florence, KY 41042. The Turfway Prevue Stakes, a $125,000 stakes race for 3-year-olds, is scheduled for Saturday, January 3, 2026, with a post time of 8:25 PM ET. This 6 1/2-furlong race is run on Turfway’s all-weather synthetic track, serving as an early prep for Kentucky Derby hopefuls and often rewarding horses with tactical speed or strong finishing kicks in its one-turn setup.

Expected Weather and Track Conditions

Forecasts for Florence, KY, on January 3, 2026, indicate cold weather with a daytime high of 32°F and an evening low around 25°F. Expect cloudy skies with a chance of light snow or flurries, winds at 4-5 mph, and humidity around 53%. These conditions could lead to a chilly atmosphere, but Turfway’s synthetic surface is expected to remain “fast,” as it is less affected by moisture compared to dirt tracks. However, any accumulation of snow might slightly slow times or favor horses with synthetic experience.

Field Analysis

This field of seven features promising 3-year-olds, with Hometown Bound standing out as the favorite based on a towering recent speed figure (125) from his maiden win. Shipmate and Trendsetter bring solid form, while longshots like Blessed Warrior may need improvement. The synthetic surface suits versatile types, and the distance could see early pressure from Jupiter or Scar Ship (wait, field is Blessed Warrior, Shipmate, Sometime, Trendsetter, Hometown Bound, Jupiter, Rawayana). Below is a detailed breakdown, including post position, jockey, trainer, morning line odds, weight (all at 122 lbs per conditions), recent finishes, and analysis. Speed figures are Equibase (ESF) from recent races.

PostHorse NameJockeyTrainerMorning Line OddsWeightRecent FinishesAnalysis
1Blessed WarriorSantiago GonzalezMichel Douaihy30-1122 lbs12/20/25: 4th (Turfway Park, 6f allowance, stalked but faded, ESF 90); 12/21/25: Placed (Turfway Park, maiden special weight, ESF ~85, behind Versed).This Mitole colt has modest form, stalking in recent allowances but lacking punch late. Trainer Douaihy develops juveniles patiently, and jockey Gonzalez adds aggression; rail post helps save ground, but low ESF (90) suggests longshot status for exotics. Owner: DNG Blessed Stable. Earnings: ~$30,000. equibase.com +1
2ShipmateMiguel Angel VasquezNolan Ramsey5/2122 lbs11/28/25: Placed (Gulfstream Park, 6f maiden, ESF 92); 11/28/25: Set pace in Pulpit Stakes (Turf Paradise or similar, finished strong but not win).Mendelssohn colt set the pace in a stakes like the Pulpit, showing grit with ESF 92. Trainer Ramsey excels with shippers, and jockey Vasquez knows synthetics; tactical speed suits the distance. Contender if controlling fractions. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$60,000. bloodhorse.com
3SometimeDylan MachadoMark Simms, Jr.8-1122 lbs12/6/25: Placed (Laurel Park, 6f Maryland Juvenile Futurity or allowance, ESF 96); 7/28/25: Dead heat in maiden special (Colonial Downs, $70k, finished strong).Take Charge Indy colt tied for win in a dead heat maiden, ESF 96 in recent. Trainer Simms Jr. targets preps, and jockey Machado adds value; mid-pack style could benefit from pace. Upset chance. Owner: Calumet Farm. Earnings: ~$40,000. virginiahorseracing.com
4TrendsetterLuan MachadoBen Colebrook3-1122 lbs8/3/25: 1st (Colonial Downs, 5.5f Hickory Tree S., $100k, won impressively, ESF 81); 7/28/25: Debut win (Colonial Downs, maiden, beat rivals).Modernist colt is undefeated, dominating the Hickory Tree Stakes with ESF 81. Trainer Colebrook (strong with synthetics) and jockey Machado (Turfway specialist) make him a threat; front-end speed fits. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$120,000. darbydan.com +1
5Hometown BoundVictor R. CarrascoJorge Duarte, Jr.2-1122 lbs11/8/25: 1st (Keeneland, 6f MSW, won by 3 lengths, ESF 125, fast time 1:11.27).Mitole colt crushed his maiden debut with the field’s top ESF 125, beating Derby alumni times. Trainer Duarte Jr. has him peaking, and jockey Carrasco suits stalking; favorite with high probability (~35%). Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$50,000. horseracingnation.com +1
6JupiterAlexander ChavezNestor R. Rivera7/2122 lbs10/12/25: 1st (Woodbine, 7f Display S., $125k, rallied to win, ESF 92).Upstart colt surged late for a stakes win at Woodbine, ESF 92. Trainer Rivera excels with routers, and jockey Chavez adds confidence; closing kick could thrive if pace hot. Owner: Not specified. Earnings: ~$100,000. paulickreport.com
7RawayanaAlex AchardGustavo Delgado20-1122 lbs11/23/25: Placed (Gulfstream Park, 8f maiden, ESF 90); 10/26/25: 2nd (Gulfstream Park, maiden special weight, beaten to Orbit, ESF ~85).Caracaro colt placed in recent maidens with ESF 90. Trainer Delgado ships well, and jockey Achard knows Turfway; outer post for stalk, but needs improvement. Longshot. Owner: GDS Racing Stable. Earnings: ~$30,000. equibase.com +2
1...681682683...4,420Page 682 of 4,420

Contact us: info@sportsgamingjournal.com

* PLEASE NOTE: THE INFORMATION CONTAINED AT THIS SITE IS FOR NEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY. ANY USE OF THIS INFORMATION IN VIOLATION OF ANY FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL LAWS IS PROHIBITED.

FOLLOW US

TODAY"S TOP CATEGORIES

© Copyright 2024, Sports Gaming Journal. All rights reserved.