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Deadspin | Kraken close out disappointing season while Avs prep for playoffs Mar 17, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Kraken forward Bobby McMann (74), second from left, skates off the ice with defenseman Adam Larsson (6), left, forward Matty Beniers (10), and forward Jordan Eberle (7) after scoring a goal during the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images Nothing is on the line for either team when the Seattle Kraken wrap up a disappointing season on Thursday night at the Colorado Avalanche in Denver. Seattle (34-36-11, 79 points) has been eliminated from the playoffs for the fourth time in its five-year existence after cratering late in the season. The Kraken were 27-20-9 coming out of the Olympic break and won two of their next four but have gone 5-14-2 since, including Wednesday night’s 4-1 loss at Vegas. Captain Jordan Eberle said recently it was a number of issues that resulted in Seattle sitting out another postseason. “The power play’s gone dry. The (penalty kill’s) let in some goals,” he said. “It’s not just one thing. We just haven’t played the way that we were playing, the detailed hockey, (knowing) the importance of each shift, the importance of special teams. The most frustrating part is that we have the group capable of doing it, because we’ve literally done it.” The disappointing finish has led to some changes in the organization, most notably the news that Ron Francis, the president of hockey operations, is stepping down at the end of the season. Francis joined the Kraken as general manager in 2019, two years ahead of their first game, and helped build a team that upset Colorado in the first round of the 2023 playoffs. The Avalanche (54-16-11, 119 points) have clinched the Presidents’ Trophy and likely will rest as many players as possible for a window-dressing game. If Colorado earns one point, it will set the franchise record reached in 2021-22 when it won the Stanley Cup. “I’m sure a lot of us will take off the last game and get ready for the real fun here,” star center Nathan MacKinnon said after the 3-1 win at Calgary on Tuesday night. Martin Necas needed one point to reach 100 for the first time in his career, and he got it with an assist on MacKinnon’s empty-net goal with 17 seconds left in the game on Tuesday night. MacKinnon leads the NHL with 53 goals, two more than Montreal’s Cole Caufield and five ahead of Edmonton’s Connor McDavid. Caufield’s regular season is over while the Oilers have one more game, Thursday night against Vancouver. In addition to sitting players, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar may remain sidelined with injuries sustained when he was hit by a puck in Saturday’s loss to Vegas. Bednar missed the two-game road trip to Edmonton with facial fractures and a corneal abrasion. The team has not announced Bednar’s status for Thursday night, and MacKinnon said Wednesday on a local radio show that he thinks his coach should be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs. Assistants Dave Hakstol and Nolan Pratt ran the team for the last two games — both victories — as the team prepares for the postseason. “We’ve solidified our position, obviously, so you’re just trying to stay as sharp as you can,” Pratt said. “Obviously, it’s tough when you’re looking ahead at what’s to come. Really, it’s just about us trying to keep our game where it’s at and preparing for what’s coming forward.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Kraken #close #disappointing #season #Avs #prep #playoffs

Deadspin | Kraken close out disappointing season while Avs prep for playoffs
Deadspin | Kraken close out disappointing season while Avs prep for playoffs Mar 17, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Kraken forward Bobby McMann (74), second from left, skates off the ice with defenseman Adam Larsson (6), left, forward Matty Beniers (10), and forward Jordan Eberle (7) after scoring a goal during the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images Nothing is on the line for either team when the Seattle Kraken wrap up a disappointing season on Thursday night at the Colorado Avalanche in Denver. Seattle (34-36-11, 79 points) has been eliminated from the playoffs for the fourth time in its five-year existence after cratering late in the season. The Kraken were 27-20-9 coming out of the Olympic break and won two of their next four but have gone 5-14-2 since, including Wednesday night’s 4-1 loss at Vegas. Captain Jordan Eberle said recently it was a number of issues that resulted in Seattle sitting out another postseason. “The power play’s gone dry. The (penalty kill’s) let in some goals,” he said. “It’s not just one thing. We just haven’t played the way that we were playing, the detailed hockey, (knowing) the importance of each shift, the importance of special teams. The most frustrating part is that we have the group capable of doing it, because we’ve literally done it.” The disappointing finish has led to some changes in the organization, most notably the news that Ron Francis, the president of hockey operations, is stepping down at the end of the season. Francis joined the Kraken as general manager in 2019, two years ahead of their first game, and helped build a team that upset Colorado in the first round of the 2023 playoffs. The Avalanche (54-16-11, 119 points) have clinched the Presidents’ Trophy and likely will rest as many players as possible for a window-dressing game. If Colorado earns one point, it will set the franchise record reached in 2021-22 when it won the Stanley Cup. “I’m sure a lot of us will take off the last game and get ready for the real fun here,” star center Nathan MacKinnon said after the 3-1 win at Calgary on Tuesday night. Martin Necas needed one point to reach 100 for the first time in his career, and he got it with an assist on MacKinnon’s empty-net goal with 17 seconds left in the game on Tuesday night. MacKinnon leads the NHL with 53 goals, two more than Montreal’s Cole Caufield and five ahead of Edmonton’s Connor McDavid. Caufield’s regular season is over while the Oilers have one more game, Thursday night against Vancouver. In addition to sitting players, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar may remain sidelined with injuries sustained when he was hit by a puck in Saturday’s loss to Vegas. Bednar missed the two-game road trip to Edmonton with facial fractures and a corneal abrasion. The team has not announced Bednar’s status for Thursday night, and MacKinnon said Wednesday on a local radio show that he thinks his coach should be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs. Assistants Dave Hakstol and Nolan Pratt ran the team for the last two games — both victories — as the team prepares for the postseason. “We’ve solidified our position, obviously, so you’re just trying to stay as sharp as you can,” Pratt said. “Obviously, it’s tough when you’re looking ahead at what’s to come. Really, it’s just about us trying to keep our game where it’s at and preparing for what’s coming forward.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Kraken #close #disappointing #season #Avs #prep #playoffsMar 17, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Kraken forward Bobby McMann (74), second from left, skates off the ice with defenseman Adam Larsson (6), left, forward Matty Beniers (10), and forward Jordan Eberle (7) after scoring a goal during the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Nothing is on the line for either team when the Seattle Kraken wrap up a disappointing season on Thursday night at the Colorado Avalanche in Denver.

Seattle (34-36-11, 79 points) has been eliminated from the playoffs for the fourth time in its five-year existence after cratering late in the season. The Kraken were 27-20-9 coming out of the Olympic break and won two of their next four but have gone 5-14-2 since, including Wednesday night’s 4-1 loss at Vegas.

Captain Jordan Eberle said recently it was a number of issues that resulted in Seattle sitting out another postseason.

“The power play’s gone dry. The (penalty kill’s) let in some goals,” he said. “It’s not just one thing. We just haven’t played the way that we were playing, the detailed hockey, (knowing) the importance of each shift, the importance of special teams. The most frustrating part is that we have the group capable of doing it, because we’ve literally done it.”

The disappointing finish has led to some changes in the organization, most notably the news that Ron Francis, the president of hockey operations, is stepping down at the end of the season. Francis joined the Kraken as general manager in 2019, two years ahead of their first game, and helped build a team that upset Colorado in the first round of the 2023 playoffs.

The Avalanche (54-16-11, 119 points) have clinched the Presidents’ Trophy and likely will rest as many players as possible for a window-dressing game. If Colorado earns one point, it will set the franchise record reached in 2021-22 when it won the Stanley Cup.


“I’m sure a lot of us will take off the last game and get ready for the real fun here,” star center Nathan MacKinnon said after the 3-1 win at Calgary on Tuesday night.

Martin Necas needed one point to reach 100 for the first time in his career, and he got it with an assist on MacKinnon’s empty-net goal with 17 seconds left in the game on Tuesday night. MacKinnon leads the NHL with 53 goals, two more than Montreal’s Cole Caufield and five ahead of Edmonton’s Connor McDavid.

Caufield’s regular season is over while the Oilers have one more game, Thursday night against Vancouver.

In addition to sitting players, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar may remain sidelined with injuries sustained when he was hit by a puck in Saturday’s loss to Vegas. Bednar missed the two-game road trip to Edmonton with facial fractures and a corneal abrasion.

The team has not announced Bednar’s status for Thursday night, and MacKinnon said Wednesday on a local radio show that he thinks his coach should be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs.

Assistants Dave Hakstol and Nolan Pratt ran the team for the last two games — both victories — as the team prepares for the postseason.

“We’ve solidified our position, obviously, so you’re just trying to stay as sharp as you can,” Pratt said. “Obviously, it’s tough when you’re looking ahead at what’s to come. Really, it’s just about us trying to keep our game where it’s at and preparing for what’s coming forward.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Kraken #close #disappointing #season #Avs #prep #playoffs

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Mar 17, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Kraken forward Bobby McMann (74), second from left, skates off the ice with defenseman Adam Larsson (6), left, forward Matty Beniers (10), and forward Jordan Eberle (7) after scoring a goal during the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Nothing is on the line for either team when the Seattle Kraken wrap up a disappointing season on Thursday night at the Colorado Avalanche in Denver.

Seattle (34-36-11, 79 points) has been eliminated from the playoffs for the fourth time in its five-year existence after cratering late in the season. The Kraken were 27-20-9 coming out of the Olympic break and won two of their next four but have gone 5-14-2 since, including Wednesday night’s 4-1 loss at Vegas.

Captain Jordan Eberle said recently it was a number of issues that resulted in Seattle sitting out another postseason.

“The power play’s gone dry. The (penalty kill’s) let in some goals,” he said. “It’s not just one thing. We just haven’t played the way that we were playing, the detailed hockey, (knowing) the importance of each shift, the importance of special teams. The most frustrating part is that we have the group capable of doing it, because we’ve literally done it.”

The disappointing finish has led to some changes in the organization, most notably the news that Ron Francis, the president of hockey operations, is stepping down at the end of the season. Francis joined the Kraken as general manager in 2019, two years ahead of their first game, and helped build a team that upset Colorado in the first round of the 2023 playoffs.

The Avalanche (54-16-11, 119 points) have clinched the Presidents’ Trophy and likely will rest as many players as possible for a window-dressing game. If Colorado earns one point, it will set the franchise record reached in 2021-22 when it won the Stanley Cup.

“I’m sure a lot of us will take off the last game and get ready for the real fun here,” star center Nathan MacKinnon said after the 3-1 win at Calgary on Tuesday night.

Martin Necas needed one point to reach 100 for the first time in his career, and he got it with an assist on MacKinnon’s empty-net goal with 17 seconds left in the game on Tuesday night. MacKinnon leads the NHL with 53 goals, two more than Montreal’s Cole Caufield and five ahead of Edmonton’s Connor McDavid.

Caufield’s regular season is over while the Oilers have one more game, Thursday night against Vancouver.

In addition to sitting players, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar may remain sidelined with injuries sustained when he was hit by a puck in Saturday’s loss to Vegas. Bednar missed the two-game road trip to Edmonton with facial fractures and a corneal abrasion.

The team has not announced Bednar’s status for Thursday night, and MacKinnon said Wednesday on a local radio show that he thinks his coach should be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs.

Assistants Dave Hakstol and Nolan Pratt ran the team for the last two games — both victories — as the team prepares for the postseason.

“We’ve solidified our position, obviously, so you’re just trying to stay as sharp as you can,” Pratt said. “Obviously, it’s tough when you’re looking ahead at what’s to come. Really, it’s just about us trying to keep our game where it’s at and preparing for what’s coming forward.”

–Field Level Media

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MI vs PBKS, IPL 2026: Why is Rohit Sharma not playing for Mumbai Indians? <div id="content-body-70869595" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Rohit Sharma will miss Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday, April 16.</p><p>Rohit misses the match with a hamstring injury that forced him to retire hurt in Mumbai Indians’ last outing against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday.</p><p>“The medical staff is assessing him… An official update will be given when available,” said MI batter Naman Dhir in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.</p><p>Rohit reportedly underwent scans after the game and had skipped training on Monday.</p><p>His place at the top of the order is expected to be taken by Quinton de Kock.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 16, 2026</p></div> #PBKS #IPL #Rohit #Sharma #playing #Mumbai #Indians

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Deadspin | Fire transfer high-scoring Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey Apr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fire FC forward Hugo Cuypers (9) (center) dribbles forward during the second half of an MLS match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday. Cuypers, 29, departed for a .5 million transfer fee plus 0,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot. “My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family. “I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.” Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played. Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024. Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fire debut on Wednesday. “We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter. “While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Fire #transfer #highscoring #Hugo #Cuypers #MonterreyApr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fire FC forward Hugo Cuypers (9) (center) dribbles forward during the second half of an MLS match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images

The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday.

Cuypers, 29, departed for a $7.5 million transfer fee plus $500,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot.

“My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family.

“I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.”


Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played.

Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported $12 million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024.

Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fire debut on Wednesday.

“We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter.

“While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Fire #transfer #highscoring #Hugo #Cuypers #Monterrey">Deadspin | Fire transfer high-scoring Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey Apr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fire FC forward Hugo Cuypers (9) (center) dribbles forward during the second half of an MLS match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday. Cuypers, 29, departed for a .5 million transfer fee plus 0,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot. “My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family. “I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.” Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played. Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024. Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fire debut on Wednesday. “We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter. “While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Fire #transfer #highscoring #Hugo #Cuypers #Monterrey

Kayla McBride is a top 10 scorer in the WNBA, averaging 18.2 points and shooting 39.8% from beyond the arc. She’s the second-leading scorer on the best team in the league — the Minnesota Lynx — and she’s a strong defender, too.

So, it comes as a surprise that she wasn’t selected as an All-Star reserve this season, especially when the league had the chance to appoint her as an injury reserve on Wednesday.

McBride has been named an All-Star five times in her career, including the last two seasons with the Lynx. But this year, the Lynx are represented by Natasha Howard, Olivia Miles, and Courtney Williams in the All-Star game, and McBride is the odd one out. All three players have deserving cases — and Howard and Miles were selected as starters — but it seems wrong that the 34-year-old was snubbed.

Part of why McBride was named an All-Star is because her scoring rampage is more recent — she was the Lynx’s leading scorer for eight straight games between July 3rd and July 20th, and was named Western Conference Player of the Week last week. So, her best stretch of basketball came after All-Star fan and media voting had closed, and even before coaches selected All-Star reserves.

The full list of All-Star starters includes Caitlin Clark (IND), Paige Bueckers (DAL), A’ja Wilson (LVA), Breanna Stewart (NYL), Olivia Miles (MIN), Kelsey Mitchell (IND), Aliyah Boston (IND), Natasha Howard (MIN), Jessica Shepard (DAL), and Gabby Williams (GSV).

The full list of All-Star reserves includes Rhyne Howard (ATL), Angel Reese (ATL), Allisha Gray (ATL), Marina Mabrey (TOR), Jonquel Jones (NYL), Dominique Malonga (SEA), Courtney Williams (MIN), Kelsey Plum (LAS), Kiki Iriafen (WAS), Jackie Young (LVA), Nneka Ogwumike (LAS), and Sonia Citron (WAS).

But the league had another chance to reward McBride with an All-Star selection, and they whiffed.

Kayla McBride probably should have been picked over Kahleah Copper for the All-Star replacement

Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum is sidelined with a leg injury, and the WNBA announced Wednesday night that Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper is the injury replacement.

Copper has had a good season; she’s the 7th-leading scorer in the WNBA, averaging 20.5 points per game, and her efficiency has increased after a sluggish start to the year. But she’s still shooting 42.8% from the field and 27.5% from three, marks that are far lower than McBride’s (who is shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.8% from three).

Most importantly, Copper headlines a Mercury squad that is 10-18 and out of the playoff race. (In comparison, the Lynx are 22-6 with a league-best +8.7 point differential). Therefore, it’s hard to make the case that Copper earned the selection over McBride, both when you look at the two players’ counting stats and their impact on winning.

McBride isn’t the only player who has an All-Star case but wasn’t ultimately selected: Carla Leite, Natisha Hiedeman, Shakira Austin, and Alyssa Thomas have all had strong seasons too, among others.

“Mac has really put us on her back,” Napheesa Collier said Wednesday. “This tear that she’s on has been so clutch … Also, she’s a huge reason I wanted to get back on the court, too. Like, ‘Mac looks like she’s having so much fun. I want to get out there.’”

If there’s one more injury replacement selection, McBride should be the no-brainer pick. If not, she’ll enjoy a much-deserved break after an elite first half of the season.

#major #WNBA #AllStar #snub #season">There’s 1 major WNBA All-Star snub this season Kayla McBride is a top 10 scorer in the WNBA, averaging 18.2 points and shooting 39.8% from beyond the arc. She’s the second-leading scorer on the best team in the league — the Minnesota Lynx — and she’s a strong defender, too.So, it comes as a surprise that she wasn’t selected as an All-Star reserve this season, especially when the league had the chance to appoint her as an injury reserve on Wednesday.McBride has been named an All-Star five times in her career, including the last two seasons with the Lynx. But this year, the Lynx are represented by Natasha Howard, Olivia Miles, and Courtney Williams in the All-Star game, and McBride is the odd one out. All three players have deserving cases — and Howard and Miles were selected as starters — but it seems wrong that the 34-year-old was snubbed.Part of why McBride was named an All-Star is because her scoring rampage is more recent — she was the Lynx’s leading scorer for eight straight games between July 3rd and July 20th, and was named Western Conference Player of the Week last week. So, her best stretch of basketball came after All-Star fan and media voting had closed, and even before coaches selected All-Star reserves.The full list of All-Star starters includes Caitlin Clark (IND), Paige Bueckers (DAL), A’ja Wilson (LVA), Breanna Stewart (NYL), Olivia Miles (MIN), Kelsey Mitchell (IND), Aliyah Boston (IND), Natasha Howard (MIN), Jessica Shepard (DAL), and Gabby Williams (GSV).The full list of All-Star reserves includes Rhyne Howard (ATL), Angel Reese (ATL), Allisha Gray (ATL), Marina Mabrey (TOR), Jonquel Jones (NYL), Dominique Malonga (SEA), Courtney Williams (MIN), Kelsey Plum (LAS), Kiki Iriafen (WAS), Jackie Young (LVA), Nneka Ogwumike (LAS), and Sonia Citron (WAS).But the league had another chance to reward McBride with an All-Star selection, and they whiffed.Kayla McBride probably should have been picked over Kahleah Copper for the All-Star replacement Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum is sidelined with a leg injury, and the WNBA announced Wednesday night that Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper is the injury replacement.Copper has had a good season; she’s the 7th-leading scorer in the WNBA, averaging 20.5 points per game, and her efficiency has increased after a sluggish start to the year. But she’s still shooting 42.8% from the field and 27.5% from three, marks that are far lower than McBride’s (who is shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.8% from three).Most importantly, Copper headlines a Mercury squad that is 10-18 and out of the playoff race. (In comparison, the Lynx are 22-6 with a league-best +8.7 point differential). Therefore, it’s hard to make the case that Copper earned the selection over McBride, both when you look at the two players’ counting stats and their impact on winning.McBride isn’t the only player who has an All-Star case but wasn’t ultimately selected: Carla Leite, Natisha Hiedeman, Shakira Austin, and Alyssa Thomas have all had strong seasons too, among others.“Mac has really put us on her back,” Napheesa Collier said Wednesday. “This tear that she’s on has been so clutch … Also, she’s a huge reason I wanted to get back on the court, too. Like, ‘Mac looks like she’s having so much fun. I want to get out there.’”If there’s one more injury replacement selection, McBride should be the no-brainer pick. If not, she’ll enjoy a much-deserved break after an elite first half of the season. #major #WNBA #AllStar #snub #season

The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future">CWG 2026 Opening Ceremony: Glasgow glows in celebration of past, present and future The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremonyThe TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.King Charles officially declared the Games open. Published on Jul 24, 2026 #CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future

How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future">CWG 2026 Opening Ceremony: Glasgow glows in celebration of past, present and future

The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future

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