Deadspin | Tiger Woods on players’ minds as Masters week begins Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC tees off during match against Los Angeles Golf Club during the TGL finals at SoFi Center on March 24, 2026, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. AUGUSTA, Ga. — Tiger Woods is not at Augusta National this week, but the five-time Masters champion is still very much on the minds of many of those in the 91-player field. Woods, 50, has reportedly checked into a treatment program outside of the United States following a car accident that led to his DUI arrest in Florida on March 27. He later announced that he would not be on hand for the 90th edition of the Masters this week and removed himself for consideration to be the United States Ryder Cup team captain for 2027 as he steps away from golf for an undetermined amount of time. Woods’ plane reportedly landed in Switzerland last week, days after his attorney told a Martin County Judge that his superstar client needed an “intensive, highly individualized and medically integrated program” away from media and public scrutiny. “It just shows the human element and the human side of someone that is struggling with some sort of an addiction,” Jason Day said after finishing his practice round at the Masters on Monday. “He’s not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well. He’s had 25 to 30 something surgeries, and when you’re going through that many procedures, it’s painful coming out of those procedures. I’ve had procedures done and I typically try and stay away from all that stuff because I just know that — painkillers, there can potentially be a downfall to it. “Granted, when I look at that, I look at it and go, he’s just a human being like everyone else and we have struggles. It’s unfortunate.” Woods pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of DUI after his SUV struck the back of a trailer being hauled by a truck near his home in Jupiter, Fla. Woods’ car flipped on its side, and he was charged with a moving violation of distracted driving. Officers found two while pills in the pocket of his pants, which authorities later confirmed to be hydrocodone. “The only thing that I don’t understand is that it’s a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm’s way, as well,” Day said. “But when you’re the player that he was and how strong-willed he is, he thinks he can do almost anything, and that’s probably why he’s probably driving and a little bit under the influence.” Woods had said during the TGL final three days before the accident that he was working toward trying to play in the Masters this week. And now his absence from Augusta National this week is at the forefront of the minds of those who have competed with Woods or grew up trying to emulate the 15-time major champion. “He was my hero — he is my hero,” Day said. “He was my hero growing up. The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger. It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope that — it must be hard to be who he is and have everything, everyone look on, kind of down on him. “Some people want him to fail. Some people obviously want him to succeed. It’s really difficult for me to go through that and watch him, and I know that he’s getting the help now, which is good. I’m just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better.” Patrick Reed won the Masters in 2018, which means he will be at Tuesday night’s champions dinner that will not include Woods. Also missing will be Phil Mickelson, who is not at this year’s Masters while dealing with a personal medical situation. “Let’s be honest, without Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson in the events, in golf, when they both step away, honestly I feel it hurts the game of golf,” Reed said. “But at the same time, we want them to come back and be healthy and ready to go.” It has been 32 years since both Mickelson and Woods missed a Masters. The last time Woods missed the first major of the year was in 2021, when he was recovering from serious injuries suffered in another car accident in California. Woods told officers on March 27 that he has undergone more than 20 surgeries on his right leg, in addition to seven back surgeries and a torn Achilles tendon. Veteran PGA Tour player Harris English said it was “very strange” not to have Woods at Augusta National this week. “He’s such a legend in this game, somebody I looked up to,” English said. “Watching him win around this place in (19)97 is kind of the reason I started getting into golf. I know he’s going to get through this. He has a big fight ahead of him. He’s a fighter. That’s what he does. “He’s going to get through it and come out a better man and a better person. We hope to see him soon.” Jacob Bridgeman turned professional in 2022, so he doesn’t have nearly the personal experience playing alongside Woods that Day, Reed and English do. But he was another whose love for the game spawned in large part from watching Woods growing up. “I think everybody has a very soft heart for Tiger. He’s been the guy for our game that’s changed everything the most,” Bridgeman said. “He’s made these tournaments what they are, and he’s made the purses what they are just by his popularity. Everybody loved watching him. I grew up watching Tiger. He was my golf idol. “I think everybody is thinking about him and hoping he can do what’s best.” Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson was on hand for Woods’ most recent Masters victory in 2019. He said he pushed other previous champions to get to the 18th green to congratulate Woods, but that he “could care less about Tiger’s golf.” “Anybody that’s struggling with anything, I feel for him because I’ve went through a lot of mental stuff. So yeah, I always pull for him. “Nothing but love for him, and hopefully he can come back stronger.” –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Tiger #Woods #players #minds #Masters #week #begins

Deadspin | Tiger Woods on players’ minds as Masters week begins
Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC tees off during match against Los Angeles Golf Club during the TGL finals at SoFi Center on March 24, 2026, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Tiger Woods is not at Augusta National this week, but the five-time Masters champion is still very much on the minds of many of those in the 91-player field.

Woods, 50, has reportedly checked into a treatment program outside of the United States following a car accident that led to his DUI arrest in Florida on March 27. He later announced that he would not be on hand for the 90th edition of the Masters this week and removed himself for consideration to be the United States Ryder Cup team captain for 2027 as he steps away from golf for an undetermined amount of time.

Woods’ plane reportedly landed in Switzerland last week, days after his attorney told a Martin County Judge that his superstar client needed an “intensive, highly individualized and medically integrated program” away from media and public scrutiny.

“It just shows the human element and the human side of someone that is struggling with some sort of an addiction,” Jason Day said after finishing his practice round at the Masters on Monday. “He’s not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well. He’s had 25 to 30 something surgeries, and when you’re going through that many procedures, it’s painful coming out of those procedures. I’ve had procedures done and I typically try and stay away from all that stuff because I just know that — painkillers, there can potentially be a downfall to it.

“Granted, when I look at that, I look at it and go, he’s just a human being like everyone else and we have struggles. It’s unfortunate.”

Woods pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of DUI after his SUV struck the back of a trailer being hauled by a truck near his home in Jupiter, Fla. Woods’ car flipped on its side, and he was charged with a moving violation of distracted driving. Officers found two while pills in the pocket of his pants, which authorities later confirmed to be hydrocodone.

“The only thing that I don’t understand is that it’s a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm’s way, as well,” Day said.

“But when you’re the player that he was and how strong-willed he is, he thinks he can do almost anything, and that’s probably why he’s probably driving and a little bit under the influence.”

Woods had said during the TGL final three days before the accident that he was working toward trying to play in the Masters this week. And now his absence from Augusta National this week is at the forefront of the minds of those who have competed with Woods or grew up trying to emulate the 15-time major champion.

“He was my hero — he is my hero,” Day said. “He was my hero growing up. The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger. It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope that — it must be hard to be who he is and have everything, everyone look on, kind of down on him.

“Some people want him to fail. Some people obviously want him to succeed. It’s really difficult for me to go through that and watch him, and I know that he’s getting the help now, which is good. I’m just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better.”

Patrick Reed won the Masters in 2018, which means he will be at Tuesday night’s champions dinner that will not include Woods. Also missing will be Phil Mickelson, who is not at this year’s Masters while dealing with a personal medical situation.

“Let’s be honest, without Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson in the events, in golf, when they both step away, honestly I feel it hurts the game of golf,” Reed said. “But at the same time, we want them to come back and be healthy and ready to go.”

It has been 32 years since both Mickelson and Woods missed a Masters. The last time Woods missed the first major of the year was in 2021, when he was recovering from serious injuries suffered in another car accident in California. Woods told officers on March 27 that he has undergone more than 20 surgeries on his right leg, in addition to seven back surgeries and a torn Achilles tendon.

Veteran PGA Tour player Harris English said it was “very strange” not to have Woods at Augusta National this week.

“He’s such a legend in this game, somebody I looked up to,” English said. “Watching him win around this place in (19)97 is kind of the reason I started getting into golf. I know he’s going to get through this. He has a big fight ahead of him. He’s a fighter. That’s what he does.

“He’s going to get through it and come out a better man and a better person. We hope to see him soon.”

Jacob Bridgeman turned professional in 2022, so he doesn’t have nearly the personal experience playing alongside Woods that Day, Reed and English do. But he was another whose love for the game spawned in large part from watching Woods growing up.

“I think everybody has a very soft heart for Tiger. He’s been the guy for our game that’s changed everything the most,” Bridgeman said. “He’s made these tournaments what they are, and he’s made the purses what they are just by his popularity. Everybody loved watching him. I grew up watching Tiger. He was my golf idol.

“I think everybody is thinking about him and hoping he can do what’s best.”

Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson was on hand for Woods’ most recent Masters victory in 2019. He said he pushed other previous champions to get to the 18th green to congratulate Woods, but that he “could care less about Tiger’s golf.”

“Anybody that’s struggling with anything, I feel for him because I’ve went through a lot of mental stuff. So yeah, I always pull for him.

“Nothing but love for him, and hopefully he can come back stronger.”

–Derek Harper, Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Tiger #Woods #players #minds #Masters #week #begins

Sports news April 7, 2026

Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links GC tees off during match against Los Angeles Golf Club during the TGL finals at SoFi Center on March 24, 2026, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Tiger Woods is not at Augusta National this week, but the five-time Masters champion is still very much on the minds of many of those in the 91-player field.

Woods, 50, has reportedly checked into a treatment program outside of the United States following a car accident that led to his DUI arrest in Florida on March 27. He later announced that he would not be on hand for the 90th edition of the Masters this week and removed himself for consideration to be the United States Ryder Cup team captain for 2027 as he steps away from golf for an undetermined amount of time.

Woods’ plane reportedly landed in Switzerland last week, days after his attorney told a Martin County Judge that his superstar client needed an “intensive, highly individualized and medically integrated program” away from media and public scrutiny.

“It just shows the human element and the human side of someone that is struggling with some sort of an addiction,” Jason Day said after finishing his practice round at the Masters on Monday. “He’s not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well. He’s had 25 to 30 something surgeries, and when you’re going through that many procedures, it’s painful coming out of those procedures. I’ve had procedures done and I typically try and stay away from all that stuff because I just know that — painkillers, there can potentially be a downfall to it.

“Granted, when I look at that, I look at it and go, he’s just a human being like everyone else and we have struggles. It’s unfortunate.”

Woods pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of DUI after his SUV struck the back of a trailer being hauled by a truck near his home in Jupiter, Fla. Woods’ car flipped on its side, and he was charged with a moving violation of distracted driving. Officers found two while pills in the pocket of his pants, which authorities later confirmed to be hydrocodone.

“The only thing that I don’t understand is that it’s a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm’s way, as well,” Day said.

“But when you’re the player that he was and how strong-willed he is, he thinks he can do almost anything, and that’s probably why he’s probably driving and a little bit under the influence.”

Woods had said during the TGL final three days before the accident that he was working toward trying to play in the Masters this week. And now his absence from Augusta National this week is at the forefront of the minds of those who have competed with Woods or grew up trying to emulate the 15-time major champion.

“He was my hero — he is my hero,” Day said. “He was my hero growing up. The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger. It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope that — it must be hard to be who he is and have everything, everyone look on, kind of down on him.

“Some people want him to fail. Some people obviously want him to succeed. It’s really difficult for me to go through that and watch him, and I know that he’s getting the help now, which is good. I’m just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better.”

Patrick Reed won the Masters in 2018, which means he will be at Tuesday night’s champions dinner that will not include Woods. Also missing will be Phil Mickelson, who is not at this year’s Masters while dealing with a personal medical situation.

“Let’s be honest, without Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson in the events, in golf, when they both step away, honestly I feel it hurts the game of golf,” Reed said. “But at the same time, we want them to come back and be healthy and ready to go.”

It has been 32 years since both Mickelson and Woods missed a Masters. The last time Woods missed the first major of the year was in 2021, when he was recovering from serious injuries suffered in another car accident in California. Woods told officers on March 27 that he has undergone more than 20 surgeries on his right leg, in addition to seven back surgeries and a torn Achilles tendon.

Veteran PGA Tour player Harris English said it was “very strange” not to have Woods at Augusta National this week.

“He’s such a legend in this game, somebody I looked up to,” English said. “Watching him win around this place in (19)97 is kind of the reason I started getting into golf. I know he’s going to get through this. He has a big fight ahead of him. He’s a fighter. That’s what he does.

“He’s going to get through it and come out a better man and a better person. We hope to see him soon.”

Jacob Bridgeman turned professional in 2022, so he doesn’t have nearly the personal experience playing alongside Woods that Day, Reed and English do. But he was another whose love for the game spawned in large part from watching Woods growing up.

“I think everybody has a very soft heart for Tiger. He’s been the guy for our game that’s changed everything the most,” Bridgeman said. “He’s made these tournaments what they are, and he’s made the purses what they are just by his popularity. Everybody loved watching him. I grew up watching Tiger. He was my golf idol.

“I think everybody is thinking about him and hoping he can do what’s best.”

Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson was on hand for Woods’ most recent Masters victory in 2019. He said he pushed other previous champions to get to the 18th green to congratulate Woods, but that he “could care less about Tiger’s golf.”

“Anybody that’s struggling with anything, I feel for him because I’ve went through a lot of mental stuff. So yeah, I always pull for him.

“Nothing but love for him, and hopefully he can come back stronger.”

–Derek Harper, Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Tiger #Woods #players #minds #Masters #week #begins

Deadspin | Devils, GM Tom Fitzgerald to part ways <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/17261772.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/17261772.jpg" alt="NHL: San Jose Sharks at New Jersey Devils" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Nov 30, 2021; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils executive vice president/general managerTom Fitzgerald, addresses the media about the contract extension of New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86) before the start of the game against the San Jose Sharks at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Tom Horak-Imagn Images  </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>The New Jersey Devils announced they will part ways with president of hockey operations and general manager Tom Fitzgerald in a mutual decision Monday.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Fitzgerald, 57, was elevated from assistant general manager to interim GM in January 2020, then named New Jersey’s full-time GM that July. He was given the president of hockey operations title in January 2024.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>The Devils (40-34-3, 83 points) are on the outside of the Eastern Conference playoff picture with seven games to go. They’re likely to miss the postseason for the second time in three years since a franchise-best 112-point season in 2022-23.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-4"> <p>“Tom and I had a thoughtful conversation today and agreed it was time to move in a new direction,” Devils managing partner David Blitzer said in a statement. “Tom changed the trajectory of our team here, including setting a franchise record for points in a season and helping make New Jersey a hockey destination. He is a well-respected leader across the Devils’ organization and NHL, and I am grateful for our friendship. I wish Tom and his family all the best.”</p> </section> <section id="section-5"> <p>“After talking with David Blitzer, it was apparent to everyone that the best course of action is to move on for the benefit of the team,” Fitzgerald said in a statement. “… The Devils are fortunate to have a core of great players, vocal and passionate fans, but most importantly, tremendous people who worked with me toward a common goal. I’ve always said that New Jersey is a hidden gem and I’m proud of the effort that we put in to raise the standard and make it a destination. I look forward to the next step in my hockey career and will always look back fondly on my time with the Devils.”</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>It was not clear whether the Devils would name an interim general manager, or whether Fitzgerald would depart immediately or at season’s end.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>“As we prepare to move forward, it is important I acknowledge our fans,” Blitzer’s statement concluded. “I recognize we have not delivered in the way you expect and deserve and I understand and share in your frustration. This is a critical offseason for our franchise, and we will explore all avenues that best position the Devils to compete for a Stanley Cup once again.”</p> </section><br/><section id="section-8"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section> </div> #Deadspin #Devils #Tom #Fitzgerald #part #ways

Deadspin | Canadiens, Cole Caufield shooting for goals against Panthers Jan 8, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad (5) defends the puck against Montreal Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield (13) during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images The playoff-bound Montreal Canadiens host the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night and Cole Caufield has history to chase down. The Canadiens (45-22-10, 100 points) clinched their second consecutive Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance on Sunday, despite having their eight-game winning streak snapped by a 3-0 loss to the visiting New Jersey Devils. Montreal’s ticket to the postseason was punched by virtue of the Detroit Red Wings’ 5-4 loss to the Minnesota Wild on Sunday afternoon. “You wake up from your nap and you’ve clinched your spot,” Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis said. “We didn’t have our fastball tonight, but it’s not like we didn’t play well. Our execution was off, but we had good structure.” While the playoffs have been secured, three Montreal players still have individual milestones hanging in the balance. The most immediate of which is Caufield, who has 49 goals. His next tally would make him the seventh player in franchise history to reach the half-century mark in goals and the first in 36 years. The last was Stephane Richer in 1989-90. Caufield’s next goal would also place him alongside Hall of Famers Maurice “Rocket” Richard, Bernie “Boom Boom” Geoffrion, Guy Lafleur and Steve Shutt, along with Pierre Larouche as Montreal Canadiens’ 50-goal scorers. Caufield had two golden opportunities on one-timers from the left circle for No. 50 in the third period on Sunday night within seconds of each other. But Devils’ goalie Jacob Markstrom quickly moved across the crease to stop both shots. “Coming to the rink, everyone was in a pretty good mood,” Canadiens’ captain Nick Suzuki said. “Our goal ever since we started camp was to get back in the playoffs, and we’ve secured that. But we’ve got big games ahead to try to get home ice and possibly first in the division.” Suzuki has 95 points (27 goals, 68 assists) and a chance to be the fifth different player in team history with 100 points in a season. He would join Lafleur (six times), Shutt (two), Peter Mahovlich (one) and Mats Naslund (one), who was the last to reach the mark in 1985-86. Defenseman Lane Hutson has 74 points (12 goals, 62 assists), six away from joining Hall of Fame member Larry Robinson (twice) as Montreal defensemen to reach 80 points in a season. The Panthers (37-37-3, 77 points) are coming off back-to-back weekend thrashings at the hands of the host Pittsburgh Penguins. Florida, which has also dropped five of seven, was outscored by a combined 14-6 in the two games. The score was 5-2 on Sunday. The two-time defending Stanley Cup champs were also officially eliminated from playoff contention over the weekend. “Better than it was yesterday,” Panthers coach Paul Maurice said after the Sunday loss. “Got behind it a little bit, but I don’t think we’d given a whole lot to get behind in that manner. Had some good penalty kills, some good action on the power play. Scored a goal. That’d be about it.” Carter Verhaeghe and Cole Schwindt scored Florida’s goals Sunday. “They were better than us,” Verhaeghe said. “They were just better than us through the whole game. I mean, last two nights, they’re a really good team. Tough playing them. But we obviously have to play better.” Panthers’ defenseman Dmitri Kulikov returned after missing two games with a broken nose. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Canadiens #Cole #Caufield #shooting #goals #Panthers

#Deadspin #Canadiens #Cole #Caufield #shooting #goals #Panthers">

mwasimuddin125 0

Jan 8, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad (5) defends the puck against Montreal Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield (13) during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The playoff-bound Montreal Canadiens host the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night and Cole Caufield has history to chase down.

The Canadiens (45-22-10, 100 points) clinched their second consecutive Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance on Sunday, despite having their eight-game winning streak snapped by a 3-0 loss to the visiting New Jersey Devils.

Montreal’s ticket to the postseason was punched by virtue of the Detroit Red Wings’ 5-4 loss to the Minnesota Wild on Sunday afternoon.

“You wake up from your nap and you’ve clinched your spot,” Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis said. “We didn’t have our fastball tonight, but it’s not like we didn’t play well. Our execution was off, but we had good structure.”

While the playoffs have been secured, three Montreal players still have individual milestones hanging in the balance.

The most immediate of which is Caufield, who has 49 goals.

His next tally would make him the seventh player in franchise history to reach the half-century mark in goals and the first in 36 years. The last was Stephane Richer in 1989-90.

Caufield’s next goal would also place him alongside Hall of Famers Maurice “Rocket” Richard, Bernie “Boom Boom” Geoffrion, Guy Lafleur and Steve Shutt, along with Pierre Larouche as Montreal Canadiens’ 50-goal scorers.

Caufield had two golden opportunities on one-timers from the left circle for No. 50 in the third period on Sunday night within seconds of each other. But Devils’ goalie Jacob Markstrom quickly moved across the crease to stop both shots.

“Coming to the rink, everyone was in a pretty good mood,” Canadiens’ captain Nick Suzuki said. “Our goal ever since we started camp was to get back in the playoffs, and we’ve secured that. But we’ve got big games ahead to try to get home ice and possibly first in the division.”

Suzuki has 95 points (27 goals, 68 assists) and a chance to be the fifth different player in team history with 100 points in a season. He would join Lafleur (six times), Shutt (two), Peter Mahovlich (one) and Mats Naslund (one), who was the last to reach the mark in 1985-86.

Defenseman Lane Hutson has 74 points (12 goals, 62 assists), six away from joining Hall of Fame member Larry Robinson (twice) as Montreal defensemen to reach 80 points in a season.

The Panthers (37-37-3, 77 points) are coming off back-to-back weekend thrashings at the hands of the host Pittsburgh Penguins. Florida, which has also dropped five of seven, was outscored by a combined 14-6 in the two games.

The score was 5-2 on Sunday.

The two-time defending Stanley Cup champs were also officially eliminated from playoff contention over the weekend.

“Better than it was yesterday,” Panthers coach Paul Maurice said after the Sunday loss. “Got behind it a little bit, but I don’t think we’d given a whole lot to get behind in that manner. Had some good penalty kills, some good action on the power play. Scored a goal. That’d be about it.”

Carter Verhaeghe and Cole Schwindt scored Florida’s goals Sunday.

“They were better than us,” Verhaeghe said. “They were just better than us through the whole game. I mean, last two nights, they’re a really good team. Tough playing them. But we obviously have to play better.”

Panthers’ defenseman Dmitri Kulikov returned after missing two games with a broken nose.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Canadiens #Cole #Caufield #shooting #goals #Panthers">Deadspin | Canadiens, Cole Caufield shooting for goals against Panthers

Jan 8, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad (5) defends the puck against Montreal Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield (13) during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The playoff-bound Montreal Canadiens host the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night and Cole Caufield has history to chase down.

The Canadiens (45-22-10, 100 points) clinched their second consecutive Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance on Sunday, despite having their eight-game winning streak snapped by a 3-0 loss to the visiting New Jersey Devils.

Montreal’s ticket to the postseason was punched by virtue of the Detroit Red Wings’ 5-4 loss to the Minnesota Wild on Sunday afternoon.

“You wake up from your nap and you’ve clinched your spot,” Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis said. “We didn’t have our fastball tonight, but it’s not like we didn’t play well. Our execution was off, but we had good structure.”

While the playoffs have been secured, three Montreal players still have individual milestones hanging in the balance.

The most immediate of which is Caufield, who has 49 goals.

His next tally would make him the seventh player in franchise history to reach the half-century mark in goals and the first in 36 years. The last was Stephane Richer in 1989-90.

Caufield’s next goal would also place him alongside Hall of Famers Maurice “Rocket” Richard, Bernie “Boom Boom” Geoffrion, Guy Lafleur and Steve Shutt, along with Pierre Larouche as Montreal Canadiens’ 50-goal scorers.

Caufield had two golden opportunities on one-timers from the left circle for No. 50 in the third period on Sunday night within seconds of each other. But Devils’ goalie Jacob Markstrom quickly moved across the crease to stop both shots.

“Coming to the rink, everyone was in a pretty good mood,” Canadiens’ captain Nick Suzuki said. “Our goal ever since we started camp was to get back in the playoffs, and we’ve secured that. But we’ve got big games ahead to try to get home ice and possibly first in the division.”

Suzuki has 95 points (27 goals, 68 assists) and a chance to be the fifth different player in team history with 100 points in a season. He would join Lafleur (six times), Shutt (two), Peter Mahovlich (one) and Mats Naslund (one), who was the last to reach the mark in 1985-86.

Defenseman Lane Hutson has 74 points (12 goals, 62 assists), six away from joining Hall of Fame member Larry Robinson (twice) as Montreal defensemen to reach 80 points in a season.

The Panthers (37-37-3, 77 points) are coming off back-to-back weekend thrashings at the hands of the host Pittsburgh Penguins. Florida, which has also dropped five of seven, was outscored by a combined 14-6 in the two games.

The score was 5-2 on Sunday.

The two-time defending Stanley Cup champs were also officially eliminated from playoff contention over the weekend.

“Better than it was yesterday,” Panthers coach Paul Maurice said after the Sunday loss. “Got behind it a little bit, but I don’t think we’d given a whole lot to get behind in that manner. Had some good penalty kills, some good action on the power play. Scored a goal. That’d be about it.”

Carter Verhaeghe and Cole Schwindt scored Florida’s goals Sunday.

“They were better than us,” Verhaeghe said. “They were just better than us through the whole game. I mean, last two nights, they’re a really good team. Tough playing them. But we obviously have to play better.”

Panthers’ defenseman Dmitri Kulikov returned after missing two games with a broken nose.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Canadiens #Cole #Caufield #shooting #goals #Panthers

A union representing about 2,000 food service workers at SoFi Stadium said on Monday it was demanding that FIFA keep U.S. Immigration ‌and Customs Enforcement away from World Cup operations in Los Angeles and warned workers could ⁠strike if their concerns are not addressed.

Unite Here Local 11, which represents cooks, servers and bartenders at the Inglewood venue, said ‌the workers remain without a labour contract as the World Cup approaches.

The union laid out three ‌main demands to FIFA and stadium owner Kroenke ‌Sports & ⁠Entertainment: a public commitment that ICE and ⁠Border Patrol will play no role in the tournament, protections for union jobs and working conditions, and support for affordable housing for hospitality workers.

Acting Department of Homeland ‌Security Director Todd Lyons has said that ICE would play a “key part” in the World Cup, a prospect the union said threatened worker and guest safety in ‌Los Angeles.

FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Representatives from SoFi Stadium declined to comment.

Local 11 said it also wanted ⁠assurances that artificial intelligence and automation would not be used during the tournament to eliminate union jobs.

The union linked ‌its labour demands to broader concerns over housing costs in the Los Angeles area, particularly in Inglewood, and called for support for a workforce housing fund, restrictions on short-term rentals and tax measures aimed at funding affordable housing and immigrant family protections.

“FIFA and its corporate sponsors ‌will pocket billions from Los Angeles while refusing to even acknowledge the cooks, servers, and stand attendants who make this event possible,” Kurt Petersen, co-president of ⁠Local 11, said in a statement.

The union said it had ⁠repeatedly sought meetings with FIFA since Los Angeles was chosen as a host city, but had ‌been ignored. Los Angeles is set to host eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, the first being the U.S. against Paraguay on June 12.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #SoFi #Stadium #workers #request #ban #ICE #tournament #threaten #strike">

FIFA World Cup 2026 — SoFi Stadium workers request ban of ICE from tournament, threaten strike otherwise A union representing about 2,000 food service workers at SoFi Stadium said on Monday it was demanding that FIFA keep U.S. Immigration ‌and Customs Enforcement away from World Cup operations in Los Angeles and warned workers could ⁠strike if their concerns are not addressed.Unite Here Local 11, which represents cooks, servers and bartenders at the Inglewood venue, said ‌the workers remain without a labour contract as the World Cup approaches.The union laid out three ‌main demands to FIFA and stadium owner Kroenke ‌Sports & ⁠Entertainment: a public commitment that ICE and ⁠Border Patrol will play no role in the tournament, protections for union jobs and working conditions, and support for affordable housing for hospitality workers.Acting Department of Homeland ‌Security Director Todd Lyons has said that ICE would play a “key part” in the World Cup, a prospect the union said threatened worker and guest safety in ‌Los Angeles.FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Representatives from SoFi Stadium declined to comment.Local 11 said it also wanted ⁠assurances that artificial intelligence and automation would not be used during the tournament to eliminate union jobs.The union linked ‌its labour demands to broader concerns over housing costs in the Los Angeles area, particularly in Inglewood, and called for support for a workforce housing fund, restrictions on short-term rentals and tax measures aimed at funding affordable housing and immigrant family protections.“FIFA and its corporate sponsors ‌will pocket billions from Los Angeles while refusing to even acknowledge the cooks, servers, and stand attendants who make this event possible,” Kurt Petersen, co-president of ⁠Local 11, said in a statement.The union said it had ⁠repeatedly sought meetings with FIFA since Los Angeles was chosen as a host city, but had ‌been ignored. Los Angeles is set to host eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, the first being the U.S. against Paraguay on June 12.Published on Apr 07, 2026 #FIFA #World #Cup #SoFi #Stadium #workers #request #ban #ICE #tournament #threaten #strike

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A union representing about 2,000 food service workers at SoFi Stadium said on Monday it was demanding that FIFA keep U.S. Immigration ‌and Customs Enforcement away from World Cup operations in Los Angeles and warned workers could ⁠strike if their concerns are not addressed.
Unite Here Local 11, which represents cooks, servers and bartenders at the Inglewood venue, said ‌the workers remain without a labour contract as the World Cup approaches.
The union laid out three ‌main demands to FIFA and stadium owner Kroenke ‌Sports & ⁠Entertainment: a public commitment that ICE and ⁠Border Patrol will play no role in the tournament, protections for union jobs and working conditions, and support for affordable housing for hospitality workers.
Acting Department of Homeland ‌Security Director Todd Lyons has said that ICE would play a “key part” in the World Cup, a prospect the union said threatened worker and guest safety in ‌Los Angeles.
FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Representatives from SoFi Stadium declined to comment.
Local 11 said it also wanted ⁠assurances that artificial intelligence and automation would not be used during the tournament to eliminate union jobs.
The union linked ‌its labour demands to broader concerns over housing costs in the Los Angeles area, particularly in Inglewood, and called for support for a workforce housing fund, restrictions on short-term rentals and tax measures aimed at funding affordable housing and immigrant family protections.
“FIFA and its corporate sponsors ‌will pocket billions from Los Angeles while refusing to even acknowledge the cooks, servers, and stand attendants who make this event possible,” Kurt Petersen, co-president of ⁠Local 11, said in a statement.
The union said it had ⁠repeatedly sought meetings with FIFA since Los Angeles was chosen as a host city, but had ‌been ignored. Los Angeles is set to host eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, the first being the U.S. against Paraguay on June 12.
Published on Apr 07, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #SoFi #Stadium #workers #request #ban #ICE #tournament #threaten #strike">FIFA World Cup 2026 — SoFi Stadium workers request ban of ICE from tournament, threaten strike otherwise

Unite Here Local 11, which represents cooks, servers and bartenders at the Inglewood venue, said ‌the workers remain without a labour contract as the World Cup approaches.

FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Representatives from SoFi Stadium declined to comment.

Local 11 said it also wanted ⁠assurances that artificial intelligence and automation would not be used during the tournament to eliminate union jobs.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #SoFi #Stadium #workers #request #ban #ICE #tournament #threaten #strike

#Deadspin #Yankees #hope #Cam #Schlittlers #whitehot #start #continues">

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Apr 1, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) pitches to the Seattle Mariners during the first inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Cam Schlittler emerged as a possible mainstay for the New York Yankees during the final two months of the regular season when he replaced an injured Clarke Schmidt.

His star received a boost when he tossed eight innings and 12 strikeouts in a shutout over the Boston Red Sox in Game 3 of the wild-card series.

Schlittler’s first full season is off to a strong start, and the 25-year-old makes his home debut Tuesday night when the Yankees open a three-game series against the Athletics.

The Yankees are off to a 7-2 start for the second time in three seasons. Schlittler’s contributions were 11 2/3 scoreless innings against the San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners.

Schlittler (2-0, 0.00 ERA) is still being fully built up after missing some time in spring training with a minor back injury and has thrown 68 and 79 pitches, respectively, in his first two outings. In San Francisco, he allowed one hit and struck out eight in a 3-0 win on March 27. On Wednesday in Seattle, the right-hander permitted two hits and struck out seven in 6 1/3 innings of a 5-3 win.

He has yet to issue a walk against 38 batters faced.

“It’s exciting to see how dominant his stuff is, just filling up the strike zone,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “He got some early outs and that allowed him to get pretty deep into the game with a pitch count. He’s throwing the ball incredibly well. He set the tone for us.”

Schlittler is the first Yankee to begin a season by turning in consecutive starts of at least five scoreless innings and seven strikeouts.

Schlittler is facing the A’s for the first time after the Yankees produced their worst pitching performances so far in a pair of games that lasted for a combined seven hours and 13 minutes.

The Yankees survived a short outing by Ryan Weathers and some struggles by their bullpen when they hung on for a 9-7 victory over the Miami Marlins on Saturday. They allowed four runs in the eighth inning of their 7-6 loss a day later.

The A’s took two of three at home from the Houston Astros and have won three of five after getting off to a 0-4 start.

The A’s scored 23 runs in their two wins and earned a 12-10 win on Sunday when Brent Rooker hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the seventh inning and a game-ending three-run homer in the 10th.

Rooker homered after starting the season 4-for-30 with 14 strikeouts. Nick Kurtz also had his first multi-hit game after starting the season 2-for-24 with 13 strikeouts.

“It was good to finally do something to help us win or do something good in any fashion,” Rooker said after the A’s finished with 16 hits and went 7-for-17 with runners in scoring position. “I’m proud of our guys (Sunday) as a whole. We saw some good arms, and they put together good at-bats and made some unbelievable plays, yet we were able to battle through all that.”

Aaron Civale (1-0, 3.60), who is on his sixth team since spending five seasons with the Cleveland Guardians, starts for the A’s.

Civale made his debut for the A’s last Tuesday when he allowed two runs on four hits in five innings while getting nine groundball outs in a 5-2 win at Atlanta.

The right-hander is 1-5 with a 6.35 ERA in seven career regular-season starts against the Yankees, who hit .299 in those games. He last faced them on March 30, 2025, for Milwaukee when he allowed three homers and five runs in three innings.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Yankees #hope #Cam #Schlittlers #whitehot #start #continues">Deadspin | Yankees hope Cam Schlittler’s white-hot start continues vs. A’s

Apr 1, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) pitches to the Seattle Mariners during the first inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Cam Schlittler emerged as a possible mainstay for the New York Yankees during the final two months of the regular season when he replaced an injured Clarke Schmidt.

His star received a boost when he tossed eight innings and 12 strikeouts in a shutout over the Boston Red Sox in Game 3 of the wild-card series.

Schlittler’s first full season is off to a strong start, and the 25-year-old makes his home debut Tuesday night when the Yankees open a three-game series against the Athletics.

The Yankees are off to a 7-2 start for the second time in three seasons. Schlittler’s contributions were 11 2/3 scoreless innings against the San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners.

Schlittler (2-0, 0.00 ERA) is still being fully built up after missing some time in spring training with a minor back injury and has thrown 68 and 79 pitches, respectively, in his first two outings. In San Francisco, he allowed one hit and struck out eight in a 3-0 win on March 27. On Wednesday in Seattle, the right-hander permitted two hits and struck out seven in 6 1/3 innings of a 5-3 win.

He has yet to issue a walk against 38 batters faced.

“It’s exciting to see how dominant his stuff is, just filling up the strike zone,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “He got some early outs and that allowed him to get pretty deep into the game with a pitch count. He’s throwing the ball incredibly well. He set the tone for us.”

Schlittler is the first Yankee to begin a season by turning in consecutive starts of at least five scoreless innings and seven strikeouts.

Schlittler is facing the A’s for the first time after the Yankees produced their worst pitching performances so far in a pair of games that lasted for a combined seven hours and 13 minutes.

The Yankees survived a short outing by Ryan Weathers and some struggles by their bullpen when they hung on for a 9-7 victory over the Miami Marlins on Saturday. They allowed four runs in the eighth inning of their 7-6 loss a day later.

The A’s took two of three at home from the Houston Astros and have won three of five after getting off to a 0-4 start.

The A’s scored 23 runs in their two wins and earned a 12-10 win on Sunday when Brent Rooker hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the seventh inning and a game-ending three-run homer in the 10th.

Rooker homered after starting the season 4-for-30 with 14 strikeouts. Nick Kurtz also had his first multi-hit game after starting the season 2-for-24 with 13 strikeouts.

“It was good to finally do something to help us win or do something good in any fashion,” Rooker said after the A’s finished with 16 hits and went 7-for-17 with runners in scoring position. “I’m proud of our guys (Sunday) as a whole. We saw some good arms, and they put together good at-bats and made some unbelievable plays, yet we were able to battle through all that.”

Aaron Civale (1-0, 3.60), who is on his sixth team since spending five seasons with the Cleveland Guardians, starts for the A’s.

Civale made his debut for the A’s last Tuesday when he allowed two runs on four hits in five innings while getting nine groundball outs in a 5-2 win at Atlanta.

The right-hander is 1-5 with a 6.35 ERA in seven career regular-season starts against the Yankees, who hit .299 in those games. He last faced them on March 30, 2025, for Milwaukee when he allowed three homers and five runs in three innings.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Yankees #hope #Cam #Schlittlers #whitehot #start #continues

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