Devils season preview: Why N.J. will win the Eastern Conference this year

The Carolina Hurricanes will be without reserve goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov for their season opener against the New Jersey Devils due to injury. This is significant as Kochetkov's absence could impact the team's performance right from the start of the season, raising concerns among fans and analysts about their goaltending depth.

The Edmonton Oilers faced a disappointing start to their season, losing to the Calgary Flames in a shootout after a costly third-period mistake by goalie Stuart Skinner. Fans had high hopes for a victory, especially with star player Connor McDavid in the spotlight, but the team's performance fell short. This loss highlights the challenges the Oilers may face as they strive for success this season.

The NHL 2025-26 season is heating up, and fans are eager to see which of the 32 teams will clinch their divisions and advance to the playoffs for a shot at the coveted Stanley Cup. With broadcasts available on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2, as well as livestreams on ESPN Unlimited, it's easier than ever for fans to catch the action without needing a cable subscription. This accessibility is great news for hockey enthusiasts who want to stay connected to their favorite teams and the excitement of the playoffs.

The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks are gearing up for a crucial season in the Eastern Conference, with both teams aiming for success. As they are constructed to compete at a high level, the pressure is on to perform. If they don't meet expectations this year, significant roster changes could be on the horizon, making this season pivotal for both franchises.

Despite the Edmonton Oilers' loss to the Calgary Flames, Leon Draisaitl achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 400th NHL goal. This accomplishment makes him the 111th player in league history to reach this mark and the 11th active player to do so. Draisaitl's achievement is significant not only for his career but also highlights his importance to the Oilers as they continue to strive for success in the league.

Cameron Payne, who had a notable season with the New York Knicks in 2024-25, has signed with a rival team in the Eastern Conference. This move is significant as it highlights the competitive nature of the league and the shifting dynamics among teams. Fans will be eager to see how Payne performs in his new environment and how this impacts the Knicks moving forward.

The Minnesota Wild have made headlines by signing Kirill Kaprizov to an impressive eight-year contract worth $136 million, making him the highest-paid player in the NHL for the upcoming season. This significant investment reflects the team's commitment to securing top talent and suggests they believe Kaprizov is crucial for their success. With a cap hit of $17 million, the move has sparked discussions about the financial strategies in professional sports, especially in a competitive league like the NHL.

Martin Necas's future with the Colorado Avalanche is looking uncertain as he may not re-sign after this season. Acquired in a significant trade involving Mikko Rantanen, Necas has become a key player in the upcoming NHL free-agent market for 2026. This situation is important as it could impact team dynamics and player movements in the league.

As the Philadelphia 76ers gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, all eyes are on Joel Embiid and the team's potential in a competitive Eastern Conference. With various scenarios being analyzed, fans are eager to see how the 76ers will navigate the uncertainties ahead. This season preview is crucial as it sets the stage for what could be a pivotal year for the franchise, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Canucks reporter Harman Dayal has stirred the pot in the ongoing debate about who holds the title of the best defenseman in the NHL today. His bold claim adds a fresh perspective to a discussion that often sees fans and analysts divided. This matters because it highlights the competitive nature of the league and the varying opinions on player performance, which can influence fan engagement and team dynamics.

The Edmonton Oilers kicked off their season with an exciting 4-3 overtime loss to the Calgary Flames, marking a significant moment for star player Connor McDavid, who recently signed a lucrative two-year contract extension. Fans at Rogers Place took the opportunity to honor McDavid, showcasing their support and appreciation for his contributions to the team. This heartfelt tribute not only highlights McDavid's importance to the Oilers but also sets a positive tone for the season ahead, as fans rally behind their star player.

The ongoing rivalry in Florida's hockey scene has unveiled troubling aspects of the NHL, reflecting broader societal issues like privilege and bias. This clash of styles and ideologies not only highlights the intense competition on the ice but also raises questions about the league's culture and the influence of its longstanding power dynamics. Understanding this rivalry is crucial as it sheds light on the challenges the NHL faces in evolving beyond its old-boy network.

The NFL is making an exciting change by moving the Pro Bowl to Super Bowl markets, introducing a new format that aims to enhance fan engagement and showcase the league's talent in a more vibrant setting. This shift not only brings the Pro Bowl closer to the Super Bowl festivities but also creates a unique opportunity for fans to experience both events in one location, potentially boosting attendance and viewership. It's a strategic move that could reinvigorate interest in the Pro Bowl, making it a more integral part of the NFL's annual celebration.

In a disappointing turn of events for the Los Angeles Dodgers, former closer Tanner Scott has been sidelined after undergoing an abscess excision. This injury comes at a critical time as the team faces mounting bullpen issues, and Scott's absence could significantly impact their chances if they advance to the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Fans are left concerned about the team's depth and performance as they navigate the playoffs.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt has emerged as a standout player for the Commanders, especially highlighted by his impressive performance in their Week 5 victory over the Chargers. His talent was recognized by the organization even before the draft, showcasing their belief in his potential. This not only boosts the team's morale but also sets high expectations for his future contributions, making him a player to watch as the season progresses.

As the Eagles prepare to face the Giants in Thursday Night Football, our predictions focus on the potential for tight ends to score touchdowns. This matchup is exciting not only for fans but also for bettors looking to capitalize on player performances. With both teams having strong offensive strategies, the anticipation builds around who will find the end zone first.

The Memphis Grizzlies may be one of the youngest franchises in the NBA, but they've made a significant impact with a number of iconic players and teams over the years. This article ranks the ten greatest Grizzlies in franchise history, celebrating their contributions and achievements. Understanding these players not only highlights the team's legacy but also showcases the evolution of the franchise in the competitive landscape of the NBA.

The international football friendly between England and Wales is underway at Wembley, with kick-off at 7.45pm BST. This match is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit between the two neighboring nations, providing fans with an exciting preview of their teams' performances ahead of future tournaments. Stay tuned for live updates and scores as the game progresses.