The Toronto Blue Jays are removing Jeff Hoffman from the club's closer role, general manager Ross...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays are removing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a> from the club's closer role, general manager Ross Atkins said Friday, per <a href="https://x.com/ardenzwelling/status/2047756956392169967?s=46">Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling</a>.</p><p>"In the short term, we are going to share that responsibility," Atkins told reporters.</p><p>Hoffman has blown three saves this season and owns a 7.59 ERA in 10 2/3 innings pitched. He's in the second campaign of a three-year, $33-million contract with the Blue Jays.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In 2025, Hoffman recorded 33 saves along with a 4.37 ERA in 71 appearances, a significant drop-off from his All-Star form with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024.</p><p>Toronto will likely rely heavily on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15396" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15396">Louis Varland</a> in high-leverage situations. He's yet to allow an earned run in 13 innings this season while notching 19 strikeouts.</p><p>On the heels of last year's appearance in the World Series, the Blue Jays are off to a 10-14 start with a minus-25 run differential. They begin a three-game series with the Cleveland Guardians on Friday.</p>

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 08: Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Jeff Hoffman (23) delivers a pitch during a MLB game between the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers on April 8, 2026, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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Blue Jays remove Hoffman from closer role

Ottawa Senators star defenseman Jake Sanderson has a concussion and won't play in Saturday's do-o...

<p>Ottawa Senators star defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> has a concussion and won't play in Saturday's do-or-die Game 4 against the Carolina Hurricanes, head coach Travis Green announced Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/SunGarrioch/status/2047722863596118320?s=20">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>.</p><p>Green said Sanderson is "not doing well" after a hit to the head from Hurricanes forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> in the second period of Thursday's Game 3.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hall catches Sanderson high and he responded. Second powerplay for Ottawa... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoSensGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoSensGo</a> <a href="https://t.co/TtZG8msPmH">pic.twitter.com/TtZG8msPmH</a></p>— Everyday Sens (@EverydaySens) <a href="https://twitter.com/EverydaySens/status/2047479333883871284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Hall was given a two-minute minor for the hit and isn't expected to face any supplemental discipline. Green was surprised to learn Hall won't face a hearing, according to <a href="https://x.com/SunGarrioch/status/2047723264403792050">Garrioch</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>After the Game 3 loss, the Senators coach said <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3529165" href="https://thescore.com/news/3529165">he didn't understand</a> why Hall didn't receive a five-minute major.</p><p>Sanderson is Ottawa's top defenseman. He missed 13 games late in the regular season due to an upper-body injury but still managed 54 points in 67 contests. The 23-year-old won an Olympic gold medal with the United States in February. </p><p>Senators defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9911" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9911">Artem Zub</a>, who was hurt in Game 1, also won't be available Saturday. </p><p>Game 4 is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET Saturday in Ottawa. </p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - APRIL 05: Jake Sanderson #85 of the Ottawa Senators steps onto the ice for warmups prior to a game against the Carolina Hurricanes at Canadian Tire Centre on April 05, 2026 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Sanderson out for Game 4 with concussion

The San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals, and Buffalo Bills are fielding trade calls for their ...

<p>The San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals, and Buffalo Bills are fielding trade calls for their picks atop the second round of the NFL draft, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/2047689179161674235?s=20">NFL insider Jordan Schultz</a>.</p><p>The 49ers own the first pick Friday night (No. 33) after dealing the 30th overall selection to the New York Jets for second- and sixth-round picks. Both San Francisco and Buffalo traded back multiple times Thursday and ultimately didn't draft in the first round. The Cardinals currently hold the No. 34 overall selection while the Bills have the No. 35 pick.</p><p>Five of the final seven picks in the first round were traded Thursday night.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cardinals made one of the most surprising selections of Round 1, taking Notre Dame running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/231869" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/231869">Jeremiyah Love</a> third overall. Arizona is coming off a 3-14 season.</p><p>Round 2 of the draft begins at 7 p.m. ET on Friday.</p>

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - APRIL 24: A general view of the video board on stage with the San Francisco 49ers 11th pick during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft on April 24, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Report: 49ers, Cardinals, Bills getting calls about early Round 2 picks

The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Ottawa Senators 2-1 in Game 3 on Thursday to take a commandi...

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Ottawa Senators 2-1 in Game 3 on Thursday to take a commanding 3-0 lead in their first-round series.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10630" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10630">Jackson Blake</a>'s second-period tally stood as the winner. It came just over a minute after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9905" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9905">Drake Batherson</a> tied the contest at 1-1. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">IT'S JACKSON BLAKE!! 🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StanleyCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StanleyCup</a><br><br>This line can't stop scoring! <br><br>🇺🇸: TBS<br>🇨🇦: <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sportsnet</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/TVASports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TVASports</a> <a href="https://t.co/CKCvFKWcM9">pic.twitter.com/CKCvFKWcM9</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2047484962752885057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Carolina's second line of Blake, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10707" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10707">Logan Stankoven</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> has been its most productive in the playoffs. Stankoven scored the opening goal of the contest for the third straight game, and Hall assisted on both Hurricanes tallies.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2583" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2583">Frederik Andersen</a> made 21 saves in the victory. He's allowed only three goals in the series.</p><p>Ottawa went 0-for-5 with the man advantage, including a lengthy 5-on-3 during the second period in which fans began booing the disjointed effort.</p><p>"The power play lost us the game," captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> said, per <a href="https://x.com/jkamckenzie/status/2047500926294880655?s=20">The Athletic's Julian McKenzie</a>. </p><p>The Senators haven't been swept in the playoffs since 2007-08, while the Hurricanes haven't swept an opponent since 2018-19. </p><p>Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday at 3 p.m. ET. </p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - APRIL 23: Jackson Blake #53 of the Carolina Hurricanes scores a goal against Linus Ullmark #35 of the Ottawa Senators during the second period in Game Three of the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Canadian Tire Centre on April 23, 2026 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Hurricanes take Game 3 to push Senators to brink

Ottawa Senators defenseman Jake Sanderson exited Thursday's Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricane...

<p>Ottawa Senators defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> exited Thursday's Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes in the second period and didn't return for the final frame.</p><p>Sanderson was hit in the head by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1690" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1690">Taylor Hall</a> before leaving the ice. The hit was labeled a two-minute minor.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hall catches Sanderson high and he responded. Second powerplay for Ottawa... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoSensGo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoSensGo</a> <a href="https://t.co/TtZG8msPmH">pic.twitter.com/TtZG8msPmH</a></p>— Everyday Sens (@EverydaySens) <a href="https://twitter.com/EverydaySens/status/2047479333883871284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It's pretty obvious why (Sanderson) left the game," Senators head coach Travis Green said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/Michael_Traikos/status/2047506318429245779?s=20">The Hockey News' Michael Traikos</a>. "I just don't understand how there's not a five-minute major called on a hit to a head. ... It's ridiculous that there's not a review."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The reason for Sanderson's departure was initially unclear, as he also blocked a shot with his hand minutes after being hit in the head. He went down the tunnel as Ottawa failed to convert on a 5-on-3 advantage.</p><p>Earlier in April, Sanderson returned from a 13-game absence caused by an upper-body injury. He registered 54 points in 67 games during the regular season and averaged nearly 25 minutes per contest.</p><p>Ottawa ultimately lost the contest 2-1 and is now one defeat away from elimination.</p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - APRIL 5: Jake Sanderson #85 of the Ottawa Senators skates against the Carolina Hurricanes on April 5, 2026 at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Sanderson exits Game 3 after hit to head by Hall

Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman suggested the club needs new blood on the roster ...

<p>Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman suggested the club needs new blood on the roster to snap a 10-year playoff drought next season.</p><p>"Well, the most obvious would be we need better players," Yzerman said at his end-of-season availability on Thursday, per <a href="https://x.com/TSN_Sports/status/2047432200891601263">TSN</a>. "We need to improve, specifically, in certain areas. We can talk about goal-scoring; we need to improve in that area, particularly at five-on-five."</p><p>Yzerman added, "Collectively, if you're watching the playoffs, and I'm assuming and hoping our players are, to play with the intensity and determination needed to be successful to make the playoffs. But ultimately, it's incumbent upon me and my staff to improve the team."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Red Wings held a playoff position for most of the season but crumbled down the stretch to miss the cut. Detroit hasn't made the postseason since 2015-16 and hired Yzerman as general manager in 2019 to oversee a rebuild that hasn't yet led to success.</p><p>Following an 8-1 loss to the Florida Panthers in the regular season's final game, head coach Todd McLellan <a href="https://x.com/HeleneStJames/status/2044592866454819133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2044592866454819133%7Ctwgr%5Ef0dfe929374c9482f96a73ec7df335d112e607b3%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sportsnet.ca%2Fnhl%2Farticle%2Fred-wings-mclellan-says-hes-embarrassed-after-blowout-loss-in-finale%2F">said</a> the whole team should be embarrassed about how the campaign ended.</p><p>The Red Wings have most of their roster under contract for next season and have over $11 million in projected cap space this summer, according to <a href="https://puckpedia.com/team/detroit-red-wings">PuckPedia</a>. However, Detroit doesn't have a first-round pick this year after trading it to the St. Louis Blues for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1971" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1971">Justin Faulk</a>.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 28: General manager Steve Yzerman of the Detroit Red Wings looks on from the stage during the first round of the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft at Sphere on June 28, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Yzerman: Red Wings 'need better players' to make playoffs

The Vancouver Canucks requested permission from the Toronto Maple Leafs to speak with executive S...

<p>The Vancouver Canucks requested permission from the Toronto Maple Leafs to speak with executive Shane Doan, sources told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/sources-canucks-seek-permission-from-leafs-to-speak-to-shane-doan/">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.</p><p>Doan's potential role in Vancouver's front office is unclear, Friedman adds. He's been a special adviser to the general manager in Toronto since 2023, but the team fired Brad Treliving as GM in March.</p><p>The Canucks recently dismissed GM Patrik Allvin and are reportedly interviewing former Buffalo Sabres architect Kevyn Adams for the position. Vancouver is coming off a last-place finish.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Doan worked as the Arizona Coyotes' chief hockey development officer before being hired by the Maple Leafs. He joined the Coyotes' front office after a 21-year playing career with the organization.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 24: Shane Doan walks out onto the ice during a pregame ceremony in his honor and to retire his jersey at Gila River Arena on February 24, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Report: Canucks ask Leafs' permission to speak to Doan

Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl returned from long-term injured reserve in Game 1 agains...

<p>Edmonton Oilers superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3948" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3948">Leon Draisaitl</a> returned from long-term injured reserve in Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks on Monday.</p><p>He missed the final 14 contests of the regular season with a lower-body injury.</p><p>Draisaitl, who's been out since March 15, had been coy on his playoff status. Edmonton head coach Kris Knoblauch said in early April that he expected Draisaitl to be ready "sometime" in Round 1.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Oilers went 8-4-2 with Draisaitl sidelined, earning second place in the Pacific Division and home-ice advantage for the first round.</p><p>Draisaitl finished the season with 97 points in 65 games. He leads all players with 41 playoff goals since 2022, and has been instrumental in helping the Oilers reach back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals in 2024 and 2025.</p><p>"He has an ability to raise his game to a whole other level," captain Connor McDavid said Sunday, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/oilers-notebook-leon-draisaitl-appears-ready-for-game-1-return/">Sportsnet's Mark Spector</a>. "We see that time and time again in the playoffs, a guy who battles through anything."</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 23: Oilers center Leon Draisaitl (29) celebrates after his first period goal during the Edmonton Oilers versus Washington Capitals National Hockey League game on February 23, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C..

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Draisaitl returns from LTIR in Game 1 vs. Ducks

Draymond Green revealed Monday that he believes Steve Kerr's time as head coach with the Golden S...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2982" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2982">Draymond Green</a> revealed Monday that he believes Steve Kerr's time as head coach with the Golden State Warriors is coming to a close.</p><p>"I've never been so uncertain, since early in my career, on what happens next," the veteran forward shared on "<a href="https://x.com/DraymondShow/status/2046262708228526298?s=20">The Draymond Green Show</a>." "But I'm truly at a loss now, because you just don't know what direction will be what. Steph, myself, and Steve shared a moment in what could be our last time playing with Steve as our coach. I'm happy we got to share that moment, and he didn't miss the moment. It was a big deal. I hope he's our coach next year."</p><p>Green added, "If you want my opinion, I think not. Just because it just feels like that. It felt that was it. I also hope I'm on this team next year - we also don't know that. And man, if it was, what a run it's been. So lucky for 12 years to have Steve as my coach. We shall see."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Warriors were eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the play-in tournament last week, marking the end of Kerr's contract with the club. Kerr <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3525500" href="https://thescore.com/news/3525500">said</a> after the loss that he would take time to evaluate his future and that all coaching jobs have an "expiration date."</p><p>Kerr has coached the Warriors for 12 seasons, leading them to four NBA titles. He owns a 604-353 record with the club and won Coach of the Year in 2016 after Golden State set a league record with 73 wins.</p><p>Green could also potentially become a free agent this offseason. The 36-year-old holds a $27.7-million player option for the 2026-27 campaign.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 17: Draymond Green #23 (R) of the Golden State Warriors stands with head coach Steve Kerr during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament game at Mortgage Matchup Center on April 17, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Warriors 111-96.

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Draymond: 'Feels like' the end of Kerr's run with Warriors

Juraj Slafkovsky's hat-trick performance in Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning was predictabl...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12706" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12706">Juraj </a><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left"><a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12706" target="_blank">Slafkovsky</a>'s</span> hat-trick performance in Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning was predictably the talk of the Montreal Canadiens' dressing room on Sunday, and no one was surprised to see the 22-year-old deliver on the biggest stage.</p><p>"We know what he's capable of bringing, and he brought it tonight," head coach Martin St. Louis said, per <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/canadiens-slafkovsky-lives-up-to-reputation-as-big-game-player-in-game-1-win/">Sportsnet's Eric Engels</a>. "Not just his goals; he was physical, he won his battles, he was annoying. It was a big game for him."</p><p>Slafkovsky scored three power-play goals, including the overtime winner, fired seven shots on goal, and threw two hits in 21:10 of ice time in Sunday's contest. His impressive playoff showing aligned with a breakout regular season, during which he set career highs with 30 goals and 73 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's evolved into a pivotal contributor on Montreal's top line with captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6457" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6457">Nick Suzuki</a> and 50-goal scorer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10510" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10510">Cole Caufield</a>, but teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3044" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3044">Josh Anderson</a> said he believes Slafkovsky's role flies under the radar.</p><p>"He's a power forward. Big guy that's hard to stop," said Anderson. "And you'd think that Nick and Cole make him better, but he makes them better, too. Obviously, he's a huge-time player for us. He's got a lot of confidence, a lot of swagger, and I just love his game."</p><p>Drafted first overall by the Canadiens in 2022, Slafkovsky is in the first season of an eight-year contract worth $7.6-million annually.</p>

RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 01: Left Wing Juraj Slafkovsky (20) of the Montreal Canadiens fist bumps teammates to celebrate scoring during the NHL game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Carolina Hurricanes on January 1, 2026 at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Habs laud Slafkovsky's playoff breakout: 'We know what he's capable of'

Connor McDavid wrapped up his pursuit of a sixth Art Ross Trophy with a four-point performance in...

<p>Connor McDavid wrapped up his pursuit of a sixth Art Ross Trophy with a four-point performance in Thursday's season finale against the Vancouver Canucks, ending his campaign with a league-leading 138 points.</p><p>McDavid joins Wayne Gretzky (10), Gordie Howe (6), and Mario Lemieux (6) as the only players in NHL history to win six scoring titles. McDavid joins the illustrious group in his 11th year in the league.</p><p>His 138 points are the second-most of his career, trailing only the 153 points he produced in 2022-23.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's a look at how the scoring race finished: </p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Connor McDavid</td>
<td>Edmonton Oilers</td>
<td>138</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nikita Kucherov</td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
<td>130</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan MacKinnon</td>
<td>Colorado Avalanche</td>
<td>127</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Macklin Celebrini</td>
<td>San Jose Sharks</td>
<td>115</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Scheifele</td>
<td>Winnipeg Jets</td>
<td>103</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>This year's goal-scoring crown belongs to MacKinnon, who adds a "Rocket" Richard to a resume that also includes a Hart, Calder Trophy, and Stanley Cup.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Goals</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Nathan MacKinnon</td>
<td>Colorado Avalanche</td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cole Caufield</td>
<td>Montreal Canadiens</td>
<td>51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Connor McDavid</td>
<td>Edmonton Oilers</td>
<td> 48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Macklin Celebrini</td>
<td>San Jose Sharks</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Robertson</td>
<td>Dallas Stars</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kirill Kaprizov</td>
<td>Minnesota Wild</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wyatt Johnston</td>
<td>Dallas Stars</td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>His 53 tallies are a career high.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 10: Nathan MacKinnon #29 of the Colorado Avalanche skates against Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers at Ball Arena on March 10, 2026 in Denver, Colorado.

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McDavid wins 6th Art Ross, MacKinnon claims 'Rocket' Richard

The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Vancouver Canucks 6-1 on the final day of the regular season to ...

<p>The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Vancouver Canucks 6-1 on the final day of the regular season to lock in a first-round series at home against the Anaheim Ducks.</p><p>By virtue of the Ducks beating the Nashville Predators 5-4, the Los Angeles Kings make the playoffs as the West's second wild-card team and will face the Colorado Avalanche.</p><p>Shortly after the conclusion of Canucks-Oilers, the Kings also lost their season finale 3-1 to the Calgary Flames.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The entire Western Conference bracket is now set.</p><ul>
<li>Colorado Avalanche (C1) vs. Los Angeles Kings (WC2)</li>
<li>Dallas Stars (C2) vs. Minnesota Wild (C3)</li>
<li>Vegas Golden Knights (P1) vs. Utah Mammoth (WC1)</li>
<li>Edmonton Oilers (P2) vs. Anaheim Ducks (P3)</li>
</ul><p>The Oilers and Ducks last met in the playoffs in 2017, the first time <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> made the postseason. Anaheim snapped a seven-year playoff drought this spring in the club's first season under head coach Joel Quenneville.</p><p>The Kings and Avalanche haven't met in the postseason since the 2001 and 2002 campaigns. Both series went seven games with the Avalanche winning both.</p><p>The Eastern Conference bracket had already been settled.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">YOUR 2026 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STANLEYCUP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STANLEYCUP</a> PLAYOFFS BRACKET IS HERE 🔒<br><br>📺: The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StanleyCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StanleyCup</a> Playoffs begin SATURDAY on <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL_On_TNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHL_On_TNT</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sportsnet</a>, &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/TVASports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TVASports</a> <a href="https://t.co/N4wSW1bhSl">pic.twitter.com/N4wSW1bhSl</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2044985824337359302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 2026 postseason begins Saturday. </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - DECEMBER 13: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers celebrates with teammates Ryan Nugent-Hopkins #93, Evan Bouchard #2, Mattias Ekholm #14, and Zach Hyman #18 after scoring against against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena on December 13, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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West playoff series set as Oilers get Ducks, Avs to face Kings

The New Jersey Devils hired Sunny Mehta as their general manager, the team announced Thursday.  M...

<p>The New Jersey Devils hired Sunny Mehta as their general manager, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Mehta spent the past six seasons with the Florida Panthers, including the last three as assistant general manager and head of analytics. The Panthers represented the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Final the past three seasons, winning twice.</p><p>Mehta is a New Jersey native who worked with the Devils as an analyst from 2014-18.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"This is a dream come true for a New Jersey kid, who grew up watching Devils practices just 20 minutes away in Totowa," Mehta said in a statement.</p><p>He added, "New Jersey has a tremendous young core that will be looking to get back to being a contender, a complement of young assets and draft picks, and a passionate fan base hungry for success. I was fortunate enough to watch the New Jersey Devils raise three Stanley Cups and am excited to get to work to return to that level."</p><p>The Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly got permission to interview Mehta for their respective GM vacancies earlier in April. New Jersey, which failed to reach the playoffs, fired former general manager Tom Fitzgerald on April 6.</p><p>After dismissing Fitzgerald, the team told head coach Sheldon Keefe that his status will be evaluated at the conclusion of the regular season.</p><p>The Devils went 42-37-3 this season after making the playoffs as the third seed in the Metropolitan Division last year.</p><p>New Jersey doesn't have any core players on expiring contracts this summer and has over $13 million in projected cap space, according to <a href="http://puckpedia.com/team/new-jersey-devils">PuckPedia</a>. Captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6426" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6426">Nico Hischier</a> is eligible for an extension as of July 1. He's currently under contract through 2027.</p>

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - JUNE 24: Sunny Mehta and Bryan McCabe of the Florida Panthers celebrate their Stanley Cup victory in Game Seven of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 24, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Devils hire Sunny Mehta as GM

LIV Golf's immediate future is uncertain with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund on the verg...

<p>LIV Golf's immediate future is uncertain with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund on the verge of pulling its funding for the league, sources told <a href="https://www.wsj.com/sports/golf/liv-golf-saudi-funding-e7c19130?mod=author_content_page_1_pos_1">Andrew Beaton of the Wall Street Journal</a>.</p><p>The PIF's total investment in LIV reached $5.3 billion earlier this year, per <a href="https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/liv/2026/04/15/liv-golfs-saudi-pif-investment-reached-5-billion-in-2026/89627349007/">Golfweek's Adam Schupak</a>.</p><p>LIV's tournament in Mexico City, scheduled to begin Thursday, is expected to go ahead as planned. It's the sixth of 14 events scheduled this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>LIV Golf is in its fifth year after poaching prominent PGA TOUR stars including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1308" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1308">Phil Mickelson</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1162" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1162">Patrick Reed</a> also joined LIV but separately announced earlier in 2026 that they'd committed to rejoining the PGA TOUR.</p><p>In February, LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil told the Financial Times that it would take the league 5-10 years to begin turning a profit, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7197088/2026/04/15/liv-golf-future-in-question/">The Athletic</a>.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - JUNE 29: A general view of LIV Golf signage is shown near the clubhouse on day three of LIV Golf Dallas at Maridoe Golf Club on June 29, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Report: Saudi PIF on verge of pulling LIV Golf's funding

Zach Werenski didn't fully agree with Rick Bowness' takedown of the Columbus Blue Jackets' collec...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5520" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5520">Zach Werenski</a> didn't fully agree with Rick Bowness' takedown of the Columbus Blue Jackets' collective pride following Tuesday's season finale, but the defenseman believes the club has a lot to learn after squandering a playoff spot with a miserable stretch run.</p><p>"I think guys do hate to lose," Werenski said Wednesday, per <a href="https://x.com/JacketsInsider/status/2044426418646397318?s=20">team reporter Jeff Svoboda</a>. "I think we need to learn how to win, and I definitely think he can help us with that."</p><p>Werenski <a href="https://x.com/JacketsInsider/status/2044425462047265077?s=20">added</a>, "With how the season ended, everyone has to take a good, hard look in the mirror and see where we can be better."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Blue Jackets lost 2-1 to the Washington Capitals on Tuesday, concluding their season with a 2-8-1 run after holding second place in the Metropolitan Division less than a month ago. The loss prompted a scathing postmortem from their head coach.</p><p>"These guys, they don't care," Bowness <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3523430" href="https://thescore.com/news/3523430">said</a>. "Losing is not important enough to them. It doesn't bother them. How can you go out and play like that? I should have done this about a month ago. But this is why we are where we are. This is why we're out of the playoffs. That kind of effort. You have to hate losing. I don't care if it's a meaningless game. I don't care. Show up and compete." </p><p>Bowness came out of retirement to take over the Blue Jackets midseason and guided the club to a 21-11-5 record after a 19-19-7 start under Dean Evason.</p><p>Bowness' contract only covered the duration of the 2025-26 season, but he vowed Tuesday to change the Blue Jackets' culture if he signs a new deal.</p><p>Columbus has now missed the playoffs six years in a row. Werenski led the Blue Jackets with 81 points in 75 games this season and is expected to be in the race for the Norris Trophy.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - NOVEMBER 8: Zach Werenski #8 of the Columbus Blue Jackets skates during the first period of their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on November 8, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Werenski sees value in Bowness' tirade: 'We need to learn how to win'

The NBA will review LaMelo Ball's apparent trip on Bam Adebayo from Tuesday's play-in meeting bet...

<p>The NBA will review <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93879">LaMelo Ball</a>'s apparent trip on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53731" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53731">Bam Adebayo</a> from Tuesday's play-in meeting between the Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/2044420104922996786?s=20">NBA TV's Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>The incident occurred in the second quarter. Ball pulled Adebayo's planted foot, causing the Heat forward to crash to the court.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bam Adebayo goes down after a collision with LaMelo Ball. <a href="https://t.co/j05gnfsBbK">pic.twitter.com/j05gnfsBbK</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/2044207902651543589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Adebayo was ruled out for the remainder of the contest with a back injury. Charlotte won 127-126 in overtime, advancing to play the loser of Wednesday's game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Afterward, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3523377" href="https://thescore.com/news/3523377">said</a> the play was "dangerous" and Ball should have been thrown out of the game.</p><p>Ball apologized postgame and said he'd just been hit in the head. He was pivotal in Charlotte's victory, recording 30 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in nearly 40 minutes.</p><p>If the Hornets win their next game, they'll take on the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round of the playoffs.</p>

CHARLOTTE, NC - APRIL 14: LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets handles the ball during the game against the Miami Heat during the 2026 SoFi Play-In Tournament on April 14, 2026 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Report: NBA reviewing Ball's trip on Adebayo

Former Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving and Pittsburgh Penguins executive Jason...

<p>Former Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving and Pittsburgh Penguins executive Jason Spezza will lead Canada's management group at the 2026 IIHF World Championship, Hockey Canada announced Monday.</p><p>Penguins president of hockey operations and GM Kyle Dubas will also be on the staff along with Hockey Canada senior vice president Scott Salmond.</p><p>Treliving, who replaced Dubas in Toronto, was fired by the Maple Leafs on March 30 as the club plummeted down the standings in his third season at the helm. He's worked for Canada twice at the tournament and won gold in 2016.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Spezza is making his international management debut. He's been an assistant GM under Dubas in Pittsburgh the past three seasons. </p><p>Dubas has worked with Hockey Canada in past World Championships, the 4 Nations Face-Off, and the Olympics.</p><p>This year's World Championship runs May 15-31 in Switzerland. Canada didn't medal in the last two editions of the event.</p>

TORONTO, ON - May 29 - Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving speaks to media at the teams practice centre in Toronto May 29, 2025. Treliving was fairly mum on Mitch Marner's future with the team, saying "we'll have to see" what transpires in the days and weeks to come. Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star (Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Treliving, Spezza to lead Canada's management group at World Championship

New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick confirmed Monday's start against the Florida Panthers ...

<p>New York Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick confirmed Monday's start against the Florida Panthers was his last in the NHL.</p><p>"Obviously, the past few years, very lucky to be part of this organization and wear this jersey, but tonight will be my last game in the league," Quick told reporters before the game, including the <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/2043722129452003594">New York Post's Mollie Walker</a>. "You know, I'm looking forward to it. Very fortunate. Wife flew down with the kids. So they'll be here in attendance tonight. My parents will be here. So looking forward to this last one and try to get one more win here."</p><p>Quick made 14 saves in a 3-2 loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 40-year-old is in his 19th NHL season. He's spent the last three seasons with the Rangers after a brief stop with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2022-23 and 16 illustrious years with the Los Angeles Kings.</p><p>The Connecticut native was one of the league's top netminders in his prime and arguably built a Hall of Fame resume with three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe Trophy, and a second-team All-Star selection. In 2012, Quick authored one of the best playoff runs by a goalie in NHL history, leading the Kings to a title with a 16-4 record, .946 save percentage, and three shutouts.</p><p>Quick's posted a sub-.900 save percentage in the past two seasons but owns a lifetime .910 clip across 828 appearances. His 410 wins are the most ever by an American-born goaltender.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 04: Jonathan Quick #32 of the New York Rangers makes a pad save during the first period of the National Hockey League game between the Detroit Red Wings and the New York Rangers on April 4, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY.

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Quick makes final NHL start vs. Panthers

The Ottawa Senators opted to rest captain Brady Tkachuk for Sunday's clash with the New Jersey De...

<p>The Ottawa Senators opted to rest captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> for Sunday's clash with the New Jersey Devils, but head coach Travis Green expects the forward to return when the playoffs start next week, according to <a href="https://ottawacitizen.com/ottawa-senators/senators-brady-tkachuk-injury">Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch</a>.</p><p>Tkachuk exited Saturday's win over the New York Islanders with an undisclosed issue. After the game, Green said that Tkachuk "wasn't feeling well."</p><p>Ottawa also held out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9189" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9189">Tim Stutzle</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4794">Thomas Chabot</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9188" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9188">Jake Sanderson</a> on Sunday after clinching a playoff spot. The Senators' postseason schedule and Round 1 opponent have yet to be determined, with the playoffs set to begin April 18.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tkachuk has recorded 59 points in 60 games this season. He missed 20 contests early in the campaign after thumb surgery.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - APRIL 07: Brady Tkachuk #7 of the Ottawa Senators takes a break during a stoppage in play against the Tampa Bay Lightning on April 7, 2026, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Senators expect Tkachuk to be ready for playoffs

Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby returned to action for Sunday's contest against the Was...

<p>Pittsburgh Penguins captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> returned to action for Sunday's contest against the Washington Capitals, potentially marking the last meeting between him and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a>.</p><p>The two clubs played Saturday in Pittsburgh, but Crosby, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3872" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3872">Bryan Rust</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1023" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1023">Kris Letang</a> were held out of the Penguins' lineup and given day-to-day designations. All of them suited up Sunday.</p><p>The highly anticipated meeting between the Penguins and Capitals could be the final home game of Ovechkin's 21-year career. The NHL's all-time leading goal scorer is on an expiring contract and recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3517849" href="https://thescore.com/news/3517849">said</a> he'll decide in the summer whether he'll return next season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Washington needs a win to keep its slim playoff hopes alive. The Capitals enter Sunday's contest trailing the Philadelphia Flyers for third spot in the Metropolitan Division and conclude their regular season against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday.</p><p>If Washington climbs into third place, it would take on Pittsburgh in Round 1 for the fifth time of the Crosby-Ovechkin era. The Penguins have won three of those series, and the winner has gone on to claim the Stanley Cup each time the teams have met.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - MAY 01: Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins looks on alongside Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Second Round during the 2018 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG Paints Arena on May 1, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. *** Local Caption ***

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Crosby returns for potential final meeting with Ovechkin

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