Player News - GoldenCamel

Alec Pierce "Good Right Now" After Suffering Wrist Injury

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen said on Monday that wide receiver Alec Pierce (wrist), who banged up his wrist in the Week 1 season-opening loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, is "good right now," according to James Boyd of The Athletic. X-rays on Pierce's left hand/wrist came back negative after Indy's 41-23 loss, so Pierce should be in the clear for a Week 2 showdown on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday. The 26-year-old started training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list after having cleanup surgery on his ankle in the spring, but he was active for the season opener and caught four of his six targets for 61 yards in the loss to Baltimore. As long as Pierce does not suffer a setback with his hand/wrist injury in practice this week, he should be active against the Chiefs as the Colts look for their first win in 2026. Pierce should line up as at least a WR3/flex for fantasy managers in that matchup with his big-play abilities deep down the field.

Jalen Coker in a Walking Boot, Not Expected to Miss Time This Week

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker (ankle) rolled his left ankle in the first quarter of the Week 1 season-opening loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday but continued to play through it and had one of the best games of his career, according to Joe Person of The Athletic. Coker is wearing a walking boot on Monday but does not expect to miss time this week as the team prepares to play the division-rival Atlanta Falcons in Week 2 on Sunday. The 24-year-old third-year receiver caught eight of his nine targets for 138 yards and two touchdowns in the 59-37 loss to the Bears on Sunday. Injuries are nothing new for Coker, who played in only 22 games in his first two years in the league due to injury. If Coker can manage to stay healthy for an entire season, though, he has true breakout potential, even as the team's WR2 across from former first-rounder Tetairoa McMillan. If Coker can get through practice this week and suit up on Sunday against Atlanta, he should be locked into starting fantasy lineups for a potential encore after his two-touchdown season opener. Right now, Coker is rostered in 61% of Yahoo leagues, so despite his ankle injury, he is a priority waiver-wire addition going into Week 2 action.

Kenyon Sadiq a Waiver Priority After Scoring First Career Touchdown

New York Jets rookie first-round tight end Kenyon Sadiq missed valuable time during training camp this summer following a setback after hernia surgery, but he was active in the Week 1 season-opening win on Sunday over the Tennessee Titans and had an impact on offense. Sadiq caught all three of his targets in his NFL debut for 21 yards and also scored a three-yard rushing touchdown on his only carry of the game. The Jets acknowledged that they would ease Sadiq into the fold early in his first NFL season, which was the case, as he played 42% of the offensive snaps, which was behind both Mason Taylor and Jeremy Ruckert. However, Taylor had just two catches for minus-two yards, and Ruckert caught his only target for a four-yard gain against Tennessee. The 21-year-old from Oregon is a physical specimen with versatility and should only continue to be more involved in the Jets' downfield passing attack as the season goes, making him a priority waiver-wire pickup, even in single-TE leagues. Sadiq has much more short- and long-term fantasy upside than Taylor.

Tre' Harris on the Waiver Radar After Teammate's Injury in Week 1

The Los Angeles Chargers' offense was not impressive in the surprising 26-14 Week 1 season-opening loss to the visiting Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at SoFi Stadium. Second-year wide receiver Tre' Harris finished the game with three catches on his six targets for 20 yards. Wideout Ladd McConkey (rib) was the only Chargers receiver to find the end zone, finishing his day with five catches for a team-high 82 yards and a touchdown, but he left the game early with a rib injury and did not return. Although Harris' final line was not impressive at all, he did play 75% of the offensive snaps, which was second only to Quentin Johnston, and his six targets were only one off the team lead (seven for McConkey). If McConkey's rib injury causes him to miss time, Harris will undoubtedly have a bigger role in Mike McDaniel's passing attack, which will be looking to bounce back in Week 2 versus the division-rival Las Vegas Raiders. Harris is a speculative waiver-wire pickup this week in deeper leagues for managers who have McConkey rostered or who are already searching for better WR depth. He is rostered in only 4% of Yahoo leagues.

Browns Anticipate Deshaun Watson Starting Again in Week 2

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken told reporters on Monday that he anticipates veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson will start on Sunday at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Monken said that "there were some really good things on film" despite the Browns being blown out 34-10 in the Week 1 season opener on Sunday at the Jacksonville Jaguars. The 31-year-old completed 16 of his 22 pass attempts (72.7%) for 205 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also added 38 rushing yards on six carries. Watson fumbled the ball but ended up recovering it, so he avoided any costly turnovers. His lone touchdown pass was a 46-yard deep strike to rookie receiver Denzel Boston, but it came with under two minutes left in the fourth quarter with the game already well over. Watson has plenty of arm strength and was accurate in his first NFL game since 2024, but he could have his hands full in Week 2 against a blitz-heavy Buccaneers defense, making him merely a low-end, low-upside QB2 in superflex fantasy leagues.

Khalil Shakir a Waiver Target Still Capable of Providing a Usable Floor

In what turned into a surprising shootout, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir caught four of five targets for 50 yards in Sunday's 36-31 win over the Texans, and he appears to have held onto a usable complementary role in what should remain one of the league's highest-scoring offenses. Shakir has led the Bills in targets, receptions, and yards in each of the past two seasons, but he topped 100 receiving yards only three times in that span, something both DJ Moore and tight end Dalton Kincaid were able to accomplish in Week 1. While Shakir's target volume is certain to drop as the potential third receiving option, he could benefit from more room to work with the ball in his hands, and he still belongs on rosters outside of the shallowest leagues.

Brian Thomas Jr. Not Expected to Miss Time

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (shoulder) briefly exited Sunday's blowout win over the Browns, but he was able to return to action, and head coach Liam Coen told reporters on Monday that he expects the third-year player to be active for a Week 2 matchup with the Broncos. Despite the shoulder injury, Thomas caught all three of his targets for 40 yards, and in a potential preview of things to come, quarterback Trevor Lawrence spread the ball around in a game he ended with four touchdowns and only five incompletions. Only Parker Washington earned more than three targets, establishing himself as the clear early-season Jaguars receiver to roster, but Thomas' big-play ability will keep him in the flex conversation as long as he remains healthy. UPDATE: Coen also said that Thomas will be limited in practice this week, per ESPN's Michael DiRocco.

Ladd McConkey to Undergo More Testing for Rib Injury

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey (rib) was knocked out of the Week 1 season-opening loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday with a rib injury, per Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, and he will undergo more testing on Monday. The Chargers initially called it a chest injury on Sunday when McConkey was pulled from the game after taking a hard hit. The good news for fantasy managers is that the 24-year-old former second-rounder from Georgia caught five of seven targets for 82 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's game before getting hurt. We should have a better idea of whether McConkey has a shot to play in Week 2 against the division-rival Las Vegas Raiders once his test results come back on Monday. Fantasy managers will want to keep a close eye on McConkey's practice status from Wednesday through Friday to gain a clearer picture of his availability for Sunday's game. If McConkey cannot play this weekend, Quentin Johnson and Tre' Harris would have bigger roles in the passing attack for a Chargers offense that fell flat in their season opener after a lot of training camp hype.

Jakobi Meyers a Safe Waiver-Target After Week 1 Touchdown

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Jakobi Meyers caught both of his targets for 40 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's win over the Browns, and while the logjam of talent in the team's receiver room will continue to make opportunities more difficult to come by, the eighth-year veteran is still a must-roster player and a receiver to target on waiver wires wherever he's still available. Among Jaguars pass-catchers, only Parker Washington saw more than three targets and appears to have earned the number one role, but Meyers should still provide a usable floor in more competitive games and offers obvious injury insurance with multiple paths to an expanded role. Meyers is RotoBaller's WR47 for Week 2 in a tougher matchup against the Broncos.

Antonio Williams a Waiver-Wire Target After a Strong Debut

Washington Commanders rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams caught all four of his targets for a team-leading 64 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's divisional loss to the Eagles, stepping in to keep things close on a day when the passing offense was not clicking. The 2026 third-round pick is the WR14 on the week with one more game to be played. While Williams is worth a look on waiver wires, managers should expect more involvement from Terry McLaurin moving forward after the veteran opened his eighth season with only two catches for 14 yards. Through one week, Williams appears to have a role in a Commanders offense that could see brighter days as the unit gels under first-year offensive coordinator David Blough. However, his ceiling will likely still be capped, with McLaurin and Stefon Diggs projected as the team's most consistent target earners.

Malik Hooker Consulting With Hand Specialist After Fracturing his Forearm

Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker (forearm) fractured a bone in his forearm in the Week 1 Sunday night loss to the division-rival New York Giants and is consulting with a hand specialist on Monday to learn his recovery time, sources told Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Some breaks can mean a player is out six weeks, but the hope is that, based on the specific bone and break, Hooker can return sooner than that. Either way, Hooker is going to miss extended time for the Cowboys' secondary. The 30-year-old former first-rounder from Ohio State in 2017 also missed five games for Dallas last year due to a toe injury and finished his sixth year with the team with 52 tackles (28 solo) and one pass breakup in 12 starts. With Hooker recovering from his broken forearm for the foreseeable future, the Cowboys will ask P.J. Locke to step up at the safety spot.

Rams Have Not Decided if Aaron Donald Will Play in Week 2

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said on Monday that the team has not decided yet whether defensive tackle Aaron Donald will make his 2026 debut on Monday Night Football against the New York Giants in Week 2, according to Stu Jackson of the team's official website. "He's going to continue to work his process, and we'll see what that looks like," McVay said. The Rams would love to have Donald back in the fold after he unretired to rejoin the organization in 2026, but they are not going to rush him back after placing star pass-rusher Myles Garrett (knee) on Injured Reserve last Friday. The 35-year-old Donald continues to work his way back into football shape after not having played in the NFL since 2023. The 10-time Pro Bowler will be a welcome addition to the Rams' defensive line when he is ready, but that might not be until Week 3 or later. For fantasy purposes, Donald, who has 111 career sacks in his 10 seasons, will be more of a boom/bust defensive lineman because of the fact that he will be more of a rotational player in his return to the league.

Zay Flowers Looking at Missing Time?

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (hamstring) got his 2026 season off to a good start in Sunday's 41-23 Week 1 season-opening win over the Indianapolis Colts, catching five of six targets for 150 yards and a touchdown. However, Flowers also suffered a hamstring injury that caused him to miss the rest of the game. A report surfaced on Sunday night that the 26-year-old is not dealing with a very serious hamstring injury, but ESPN's Adam Schefter said on The Pat McAfee Show on Monday that "with a hamstring injury you miss a little bit of time." Even though it does not seem like Flowers' injury is overly serious, Schefter says that to think he will be out there in Week 2 against the Saints is "probably unrealistic." In addition to Flowers' injury, rookie receiver Ja'Kobi Lane fractured his wrist and will miss time going forward. So with Flowers questionable for Week 2 and Lane out, veteran Rashod Bateman, who had zero catches in Week 1, could become Baltimore's top wideout this weekend. Fantasy managers will want to check on Flowers' practice participation from Wednesday through Friday for a better idea of whether he can play on Sunday.

Chris Brooks on the Waiver Radar After Week 1 Usage

Even though Green Bay Packers running back Chris Brooks did not stand out in the team's 39-22 Week 1 season-opening loss to the division-rival Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, he is in the waiver-wire conversation going into Week 2 based on his usage in a Packers backfield that has started the 2026 season without Josh Jacobs (personal). Brooks saw seven carries for 29 yards (4.1 yards per carry) and failed to bring in his only target through the air. However, it was notable that Kaleb Johnson did not see a single touch, while Brooks had six fewer carries than MarShawn Lloyd, who ran for only 37 yards (2.8 YPC). Perhaps most notable on the day, though, was that Brooks played 56% of the offensive snaps, with Lloyd checking in at 44%. If Brooks continues to be efficient with plenty of opportunities as he did in the season opener, he could quickly become the Packers' preferred option in the backfield until Jacobs returns from the commissioner's exempt list. The 26-year-old is widely available on the waiver wire, as he is currently rostered in only 2% of Yahoo leagues.

Rams Don't Have a Timeline for Myles Garrett's Return

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said on Monday that he does not have a timeline for how many games All-Pro edge rusher Myles Garrett (knee) will miss after he undergoes arthroscopic knee surgery, according to Sarah Barshop of ESPN. Garrett will miss at least the next four games after the Rams surprisingly placed him on Injured Reserve after last Thursday's season-opening loss to the division-rival San Francisco 49ers in Australia. The earliest Garrett could rejoin the Rams' defensive line would be on Oct. 18 against the division-rival Arizona Cardinals. The 30-year-old seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time first-team All-Pro missed most of training camp this summer and did not look like himself in the Week 1 opener last Thursday, failing to record a single tackle. The Rams pulled Garrett late in the blowout loss. It is not the start Garrett wanted to have in L.A. after breaking the single-season NFL sack record with 23 sacks in 2025 with the Cleveland Browns. In IDP fantasy formats, Garrett should be stashed until he is healthy enough to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.

TreVeyon Henderson to Return to Practice on Monday

New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) will return to practice on Monday, head coach Mike Vrabel told Mike Reiss of ESPN. Henderson was unable to practice all of last week before being ruled out for the Week 1 season-opening loss last Wednesday to the Seattle Seahawks. The fact that the 23-year-old will return early this week suggests that he will have a legitimate chance to make his 2026 debut in Week 2 this Sunday when the team squares off against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In his absence, Rhamondre Stevenson handled 18 rushing attempts for 51 yards (2.8 yards per carry) while catching five of six targets for 44 yards through the air. Corey Kiner backed him up and had only six carries for 11 yards as the RB2. If Henderson is cleared for Week 2 later this week, he is expected to split backfield work with Stevenson, although the Pats could ease Henderson in after he missed the last few weeks of training camp with his ankle injury. At best, Henderson will be a shaky RB3/flex option for fantasy managers if he plays against Pittsburgh.

Kyler Murray's Week 2 Status is Uncertain

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (concussion) was knocked out of the Week 1 season-opening win over the division-rival Green Bay Packers on Sunday in the first quarter with a concussion and was eventually ruled out. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said that Murray was in good spirits after the game in the locker room, according to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. It is good news, but we just do not know how quickly Murray will progress through the league's concussion protocol or if he will be cleared for the Week 2 game versus the division-rival Chicago Bears. It means that veteran backup Carson Wentz, who came into the game to throw three touchdowns and lead the Vikings to a win, could be the starter in Week 2 versus Chicago. It also means that former first-rounder J.J. McCarthy, who lost the starting competition this summer, could be elevated to the backup role this coming weekend. Murray was entering a potential bounce-back year in 2026 in his new home in Minnesota with better offensive weapons around him, but his Week 1 concussion does not mean that he cannot bounce back as the Vikings' starter once he is cleared from his concussion. UPDATE: O'Connell said that Murray is officially in the league's concussion protocol.

Wan'Dale Robinson Is a Priority PPR Add for Week 2

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson gave fantasy managers a familiar stat line in Sunday's 23-10 loss to the New York Jets, catching five of six targets for 38 yards. It wasn't a big day, but the six targets tied rookie Carnell Tate for the team lead while Cam Ward managed only 140 passing yards. Robinson's value has never depended on piling up deep shots. He caught 92 passes for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns with the Giants last season, then signed with Tennessee and reunited with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. The Titans also list him as a starter, so there is no role question to solve here. What needs to improve is the offense around him. Tennessee produced only 195 total yards in the opener, and Robinson averaged 7.6 yards per catch. That can make him frustrating outside of full-PPR formats. Still, five catches in a poor offensive showing are enough to keep the floor interesting. If Robinson was left on the waiver wire, he should be a priority add in PPR leagues ahead of Week 2 against Philadelphia, with more value as a steady depth option than a high-ceiling play.

Dontayvion Wicks Worth Adding After Explosive Eagles Debut

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks made two catches count in Sunday's 24-22 win over Washington, finishing with 73 yards and a touchdown on four targets. His first reception as an Eagle went 64 yards, and he later got loose from Mike Sainristil for a nine-yard score. That kind of stat line can be easy to dismiss on only four looks, but Wicks wasn't coming from nowhere. He started Week 1, remains listed with the first team on Philadelphia's depth chart, and the Eagles traded a 2026 fifth-round pick and 2027 sixth-rounder for him before extending him through 2027. Philadelphia also threw just 25 times in the opener. Four targets are the part to watch. That is not enough to call Wicks a weekly starter with DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert and first-round rookie Makai Lemon all competing for the ball. There is a real role here, though, plus enough downfield ability to matter without huge volume. Wicks is worth adding in 12-team leagues before Week 2 at Tennessee, especially for managers looking for receiver upside rather than an immediate plug-and-play option.

Mike Washington Jr. Is a Must-Stash After Strong NFL Debut

Las Vegas Raiders running back Mike Washington Jr. made good use of his limited work in Sunday's 27-13 win over the Miami Dolphins, turning seven carries into 41 yards. Ashton Jeanty still owned the backfield with 23 carries and six catches, so Washington is not pushing for a starting fantasy spot in Week 2. He is becoming harder to leave on waiver wires, though. The Raiders traded up to take Washington 122nd overall in April, and the 6-foot-2, 228-pound rookie opened the season second to Jeanty on the depth chart. Washington also handled first-team work when Jeanty left an August practice with an injury, giving Las Vegas a chance to see him with the starting offense before the games counted. Seven carries do not give Washington much standalone value yet, especially with Jeanty healthy. They do reinforce his place as the back fantasy managers want behind him. Washington should be stashed in 12-team leagues before that role becomes more expensive, rather than viewed as a Week 2 play against the Chargers.

Caleb Douglas Is a Week 2 Priority Wide Receiver Add

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Caleb Douglas made his NFL debut count on Sunday, catching five of seven targets for a team-high 94 yards in a 27-13 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. The yardage set a franchise record for a player making his Dolphins debut. Miami used the 75th overall pick on Douglas in April, and head coach Jeff Hafley said before Week 1 that Douglas and fellow rookie Chris Bell deserved to start. Douglas then went out and led the team in receiving despite Malik Willis completing only 15 passes. The encouraging part for fantasy managers is that the production came with a role already in place. Seven targets in his first NFL game is enough to make the usage worth chasing. Bell and Malik Washington are still part of the receiver mix, and Miami's passing game remains a concern. That keeps Douglas from being an automatic Week 2 starter. It should not keep him off waiver claims, though. In 12-team leagues, Douglas belongs near the top of the wide receiver pickup list and makes more sense as an upside stash against San Francisco.

Mike Gesicki Back on the Fantasy Radar After Big Week 1

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki gave fantasy managers a reason to notice him again Sunday, catching five of seven targets for 78 yards and a touchdown against Tampa Bay. He led Cincinnati in targets, receptions and receiving yards. The catch is how little he actually played. Gesicki was on the field for only 21 offensive snaps while Drew Sample played 42, with Erick All Jr. also part of the rotation. Still, 17 of Gesicki's snaps came on passing routes. When Cincinnati wanted him on the field, it was usually to catch the ball. That is enough to make his 1% Yahoo roster rate interesting after one week. RotoBaller has Gesicki 34th among its Week 2 waiver options and recommends him in 14-team leagues. Houston is a tougher matchup, so managers do not need to force him into lineups yet. In deeper formats, though, Gesicki is worth adding to see if Week 1 was the start of something.

Romeo Doubs Will Need to Bounce Back in Week 2

The New England Patriots will need better results from wide receiver Romeo Doubs, who steps into the de facto No. 1 receiver role for the next few weeks. He is replacing A.J. Brown (ankle), who has been placed on injured reserve and will miss at least a month. Doubs signed with the Patriots this past offseason, but his debut with the team went about as poor as you could imagine. He was unable to haul in any of his three targets, and a mix of physical and mental mistakes negatively impacted him and the Patriots down the stretch. The good news for Doubs is that the Seahawks' defense is fantastic, and he's not the first receiver to produce a dud against them. The test will get a little easier in Week 2 against the Steelers, especially if Joey Porter Jr. (back) remains sidelined. We'd recommend giving Doubs a second chance after Week 1, because there's real value in being Drake Maye's No. 1 target.

Mason McTavish Eager to Prove Himself After Anaheim Exit

St. Louis Blues forward Mason McTavish feels he has a point to prove in 2026-27. "Yeah, I think I have a chip on my shoulder, for sure," McTavish told Jeremy Rutherford of The Athletic. "I'm not happy with the way things went in Anaheim. I enjoyed my time there; it was awesome, guys were great, but at the same time, they traded me. That's something I'm passionate about and want to get better. I'm looking forward to doing that here." McTavish arrived in St. Louis in exchange for a pair of first-round picks in June. The Ducks traded him less than 12 months after signing him to a six-year, $42 million contract extension. McTavish is expected to play an important role on his new team as the second-line center and a power-play contributor.

Bijan Robinson Accounts for 173 Total Yards and a Score in Week 1

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson picked up where he left off last season, getting heavily involved in both the run and the pass game in Sunday's 20-13 loss to the Steelers. The 5-foot-11 superstar gained 83 yards on 21 carries (4.0 YPC) while adding another 90 receiving yards on a team-high 10 targets and eight receptions; no other receiver had more than four targets or more than two catches. The former first-rounder recorded the team's only score of the day as well, which came on a quick swing pass behind the line of scrimmage that he was able to take 23 yards to the end zone. The Falcons will take on the Panthers in Week 2, a team that was trampled by the Bears in Week 1, so expect more of the same from the 24-year-old, who will again be at or near the top of the running back ranks next week regardless of who is under center for Atlanta.

Teammate Backs Elias Pettersson to Return to Elite Form

Vancouver Canucks center Elias Pettersson has gone through a couple of tough campaigns, but teammate Brock Boeser is confident he'll regain his superstar level in 2026-27. "Seems like he's in a great headspace," Canucks winger Boeser said about Pettersson at the NHL/NHLPA player media tour. "Way better than the last few years." Pettersson had a 102-point campaign in 2022-23 before signing an eight-year, $92.8 million extension in 2024, the largest contract in Canucks history. Since then, his performance level has dropped significantly, as Pettersson has averaged only 0.70 points per game. After posting three consecutive 30-goal years, he has scored 30 goals combined over the last two campaigns. A resurgence from Pettersson would greatly benefit the Canucks and help many fantasy teams.

Isaiah Likely Shines With Two Touchdowns Against Cowboys

New York Giants tight end Isaiah Likely hauled in all eight targets for 78 yards and two touchdowns in the 28-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Likely was the team's leading receiver throughout training camp, and he lived up to the hype in Week 1. Of his eight catches, four came on third down. Despite playing only 49% of the snaps in Week 1, he looks primed for a key role in the passing game this season. With quarterback Jaxson Dart and the Giants offense looking sharp in Week 1, Likely should continue to see valuable opportunities in the passing game. He faces the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2, where Likely should be considered a mid-TE1 despite the limited snap share.

Seth Jarvis Progressing as Planned in Shoulder Surgery Recovery

Carolina Hurricanes winger Seth Jarvis (shoulder) is on track in his recovery from offseason surgery, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer reports. The 24-year-old underwent shoulder surgery in late June and was ruled out for 4-6 months. He's hoping to return to action in late October or early November. Jarvis has posted three consecutive 30-goal and 60-point campaigns despite dealing with a shoulder injury over the past couple of years. With the issue behind him, the versatile forward could take his game to a new level.

Maple Leafs Invite Nick Blankenburg to Camp

Defenseman Nick Blankenburg has agreed to a professional tryout contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun reports. Blankenburg has been without a standard contract late in the offseason despite playing 60-plus regular-season games in back-to-back campaigns. He split the 2025-26 season between the Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche, registering 24 points (eight goals, 16 assists), 72 SOG, 59 blocks, and 55 hits. The 28-year-old will compete for a bottom-pairing role during training camp.

Zachary Bolduc Signs Contract Extension With Canadiens

Montreal Canadiens winger Zachary Bolduc has re-signed with the team on a four-year contract. He landed a $16.8 million deal as a restricted free agent. The Canadiens acquired Bolduc from the St. Louis Blues last offseason. In 2025-26, he recorded 30 points (12 goals, 18 assists) in 78 outings and led all Canadiens forwards with 170 hits. Coming off back-to-back 30-point campaigns, Bolduc will look to find the next gear in 2026-27. However, fantasy managers shouldn't expect a big leap, as Bolduc will likely be limited to a bottom-six role.

Haywood Highsmith Faces Roster Battle in Phoenix

Phoenix Suns forward Haywood Highsmith (knee) enters training camp without a guaranteed roster spot after the team waived and re-signed him in August, according to Holden Sherman of Bright Side of the Sun. Highsmith is on a one-year, $3 million deal that does not become fully guaranteed until Jan. 10, 2027, and he cannot be traded until Dec. 15. The 29-year-old currently projects behind Miles Bridges and Rasheer Fleming, leaving him closer to blowout or injury-dependent minutes than a steady rotation role. Highsmith averaged 5.4 points and 1.9 rebounds in 13.0 minutes across seven games last season, so even Jordan Ott's three-point-heavy offense is unlikely to make him fantasy-relevant unless Phoenix's forward depth thins out.

Fred VanVleet Ramps Up Contact Work

Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (knee) has taken another step in his ramp-up before training camp, according to Brian Barefield of Big Sarge Media. Head coach Ime Udoka said VanVleet has "really ramped it up" while rehabbing in San Diego and has progressed to back-to-back work and contact activity. That builds on VanVleet's earlier expectation that he would be ready for the preseason opener, but Houston still has camp and exhibition games to gauge his workload. If he avoids a setback, VanVleet's return would tighten Reed Sheppard's path to usage after the young guard averaged 13.5 points on 43.0 percent shooting across 82 games last season.

Aaron Gordon Feels Ready for Camp

Denver Nuggets forward/center Aaron Gordon (hamstring, calf) told Harrison Wind of DNVR Sports that his offseason helped reset him physically and mentally. Speaking at his youth camp, Gordon said he did a lot of "soul-searching" and training before adding, "I'm ready to go." The 30-year-old was limited to 36 regular-season games by hamstring issues, then played only three games in Denver's first-round loss to Minnesota while dealing with left calf tightness. He still produced when available, averaging 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.7 threes in 27.9 minutes while opening the season with a 50-point night. Peyton Watson's move to Cleveland helps secure Gordon's frontcourt role next to Nikola Jokic, though DeMar DeRozan's arrival adds another scorer to the mix. The injury discount is the appeal, but another missed stretch would quickly cap the upside.

Gage Jump Likely to Go on Injured List

Athletics rookie left-hander Gage Jump (shoulder) is likely heading to the 15-day injured list, which would end his first year in the majors a bit early, according to Jason Burke of Inside the A's. The determination will be made on Tuesday. Jump dealt with shoulder tightness in his last start on Saturday against the division-rival Seattle Mariners, when he allowed five earned runs on five hits (two homers) while walking one and striking out only two in two innings for his 11th loss of the season. The 23-year-old southpaw, a former second-rounder in 2024 from LSU, definitely had his ups and downs in the first 20 starts of his major-league career with a bad team. In his 98 2/3 innings pitched, Jump has gone 6-11 with a 5.47 ERA (4.02 FIP) and a 1.52 WHIP with 108 strikeouts and 46 walks. He had an especially tough time at home at Sutter Health Park, posting a 6.27 ERA with 56 strikeouts and 27 walks in 51 2/3 frames. Jump has some intriguing skills but will need to show better command of his arsenal to take the next step with the A's in 2027.

Cal Quantrill Dealing With Back Tightness, Rangers Not Too Worried

Texas Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said that right-hander Cal Quantrill (back) was having back tightness towards the end of his start on Sunday in the 7-6 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to Kennedi Landry of MLB.com. The Rangers were going batter-to-batter and inning-to-inning with him for a bit, but the Rangers' concern level "seems low." For what it is worth, Quantrill says he is planning on taking his next turn in the starting rotation "no matter what." He still managed to get a quality start for his fantasy managers, allowing just two earned runs on five hits while walking none and striking out four in six innings of work to pick up his ninth win of the year. We will consider him day-to-day for now, but fantasy managers will want to keep a close eye on Quantrill's progress over the next couple of days. The matchup at home against Toronto for Quantrill's next start (if he makes it) is a solid one, with the Blue Jays ranking fourth-worst in OPS in 2026. On June 27, Quantrill took a no-decision in Toronto, throwing four shutout innings with a walk and five strikeouts.

Giants Considering Shutting Logan Webb Down for the Year

San Francisco Giants manager Tony Vitello said that the team will have a conversation about whether or not to shut right-handed veteran Logan Webb down for the year, according to Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports. It has been a rough season for Webb in 2026, with his season starting early while playing for the United States in the World Baseball Classic. The 29-year-old three-time All-Star came into his start in Sunday's series finale against the division-rival San Diego Padres with a 4.10 ERA (3.46 FIP), 1.15 WHIP, and 127:40 K:BB in 155 2/3 innings over his 26 starts, and he allowed six runs on eight hits in five innings in a loss to drop his record on the year to 8-8. It might be time for Webb to call it a season, as he nearly has a 10.00 ERA in his last five starts down the stretch. It might not make sense to throw Webb out there again with the Giants eliminated from the playoffs already. Fantasy managers still playing for a championship might have already jumped ship. In addition to the long year in 2026, Webb went over the 200-inning mark in his previous three seasons in San Francisco.

Trey Yesavage Scheduled to Make Rehab Appearance on Tuesday

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Trey Yesavage (knee) is set to make a rehab appearance with Triple-A Buffalo on Tuesday, per Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet. Nicholson-Smith reports that Yesavage could be on track to return to the Blue Jays on Monday, September 21, if all continues to go well with his progression. The 23-year-old has been sidelined by a knee injury since early August. Given the speed at which Yesavage looks to be moving through his rehab, it appears as though Toronto may be looking to deploy him in a relief role in the final week of the regular season. Yesavage has been effective when on the mound this season, recording a 5-5 record with a 3.65 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 91 strikeouts across 93 2/3 innings (18 starts). If Yesavage does get a chance to make a start or work in a scheduled bulk relief appearance before the end of the year, he could be a worthy starting pitcher streamer for fantasy managers.

Michael Soroka Set to Rejoin Diamondbacks Rotation on Tuesday

Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Michael Soroka will rejoin the team's rotation on Tuesday against the Miami Marlins, per Jack Sommers of Sports Illustrated. After suffering a shoulder injury that forced him onto the injured list in mid-August, Soroka worked out of the bullpen in his return from the IL on Wednesday. However, Sommers reports that Arizona is moving veteran right-hander Zac Gallen to the bullpen to accommodate Soroka's return to the rotation. Soroka has been effective when healthy this season, recording an 8-5 record with a 3.53 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts across 99 1/3 innings (18 starts). The 29-year-old has posted a respectable 23.1% strikeout rate with an excellent 6.1% walk rate. Now that he's back to working as a starting pitcher, Soroka profiles as a quality innings-eater for deep-league fantasy managers.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Enters Miami with Huge Expectations

Miami Heat forward/center Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf, knee) enters his first season in Miami with immediate pressure, as Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel used Sunday's Ask Ira column to weigh whether his Heat debut can top Shaquille O'Neal's 2004-05 arrival. The framing says plenty about Miami's expectations. Antetokounmpo should operate as the offensive hub next to Bam Adebayo, with Erik Spoelstra able to build inside-out looks around that frontcourt while Klay Thompson, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Davion Mitchell help the spacing. The fantasy ceiling remains elite if the usage stays near career levels, but availability is the swing point after he averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists across a career-low 36 games last season. His decision to skip Greece's World Cup qualifying window for season prep helps, but the calf and knee history keeps some risk attached to the first-round profile.

Willson Contreras Activated from Injured List on Sunday

Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (hamstring) was activated from the 10-day injured list ahead of his team's matchup against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday. The 34-year-old batted fourth and went two-for-three with a walk and a run scored in his return. Contreras was placed on the 10-day injured list in late August with a hamstring strain, but he was able to return almost immediately after he was first eligible. Across 521 plate appearances this season, Contreras is hitting .277/.387/.517 with 26 home runs, 79 RBI, 67 runs scored, and three stolen bases. He's posted a stellar 13.4% barrel rate and has taken advantage of the hitter-friendly Fenway Park, posting a 1.003 OPS with 14 home runs across 255 plate appearances at home. Now that he's back with the Red Sox, Contreras is a must-start fantasy first baseman across all league formats.

Xavier Edwards Makes Return to Marlins Lineup on Sunday

Miami Marlins second baseman Xavier Edwards (thumb) was activated off the 10-day injured list ahead of his team's matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday. The 27-year-old batted fifth in his return and went one-for-three with a walk and a run scored. Edwards had been sidelined since late August by a sprained thumb. Across 578 plate appearances this season, Edwards has hit .282/.362/.376 with six home runs, 51 RBI, 60 runs scored, and 20 stolen bases. The speedy switch-hitter brings almost no power to the table, as he's logged a 3.2% barrel rate and 28.7% hard-hit rate in 2026. However, he's struck out in just 13.3% of his plate appearances while posting an 11.4% walk rate. Now that he's back in action, Edwards profiles as a speed and batting average asset for fantasy managers.

Koby Brea Faces Crowded Suns Rotation

Phoenix Suns guard Koby Brea is back on a one-year two-way contract after signing his qualifying offer in July, but Kevin Humpherys of Bright Side of the Sun does not see a clean path to NBA minutes. The 23-year-old is trying to stick in a crowded backcourt and wing mix, with shooting serving as his clearest route to the floor if Luke Kennard or Collin Gillespie misses time. Brea hit 13-for-30 from deep in just 85 NBA minutes last season, yet shot only 34.9 percent from three on 10.0 attempts per game with the Valley Suns. Pat Spencer's two-way addition squeezes him further because Phoenix has a greater need for on-ball creation and toughness. Brea is worth filing away, but he is not a fantasy target unless the shot translates and injuries open a role.

Kyle Bradish Placed on 15-Day Injured List with Abdominal Issue

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Kyle Bradish (abdomen) has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to lower abdominal discomfort, per an announcement from the team. With only 14 days remaining in the Orioles' regular season, Bradish's year is likely done. Across 155 innings (29 starts) in 2026, the 30-year-old recorded a 7-15 record with a 4.12 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, and 142 strikeouts. Bradish has struggled mightily in the second half of the season, recording a 5.29 ERA with just a 16.7% strikeout rate across 47 2/3 innings after the All-Star break. Still, it's a positive sign for Bradish's long-term outlook that he was able to reach 150 innings after failing to reach the 40-inning mark in either 2024 or 2025 due to arm issues. With Bradish sidelined, Orioles left-hander Cade Povich could be in line for a promotion from Triple-A to the Baltimore rotation.

Dean Wade Slots Into Sixers' Second Unit

Philadelphia 76ers forward Dean Wade is expected to open the season with the second unit behind LeBron James, according to Adam Aaronson of PhillyVoice. Wade originally signed a four-year, nearly $40 million deal with the expectation of starting at power forward, but Philadelphia's summer shakeup pushed him into a bench role. That does not mean his workload will be light, as Aaronson notes Wade could still top last season's career-high 22.3 minutes per game. The 29-year-old averaged 5.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists with Cleveland while shooting 36.2 percent from three. Nick Nurse can use him as a low-usage defensive matchup piece across several lineup types, but Wade's limited scoring and shaky availability make him more useful to the Sixers than to fantasy managers.

Rafael Devers Placed on 60-Day Injured List with Core-Muscle Injury

San Francisco Giants first baseman/designated hitter Rafael Devers (abdomen) has been placed on the 60-day injured list due to a core muscle injury, per Justice delos Santos of The Mercury News. delos Santos reports that Devers has played through the issue for much of the season. Following his placement on the 60-day injured list, Devers' 2026 campaign is over. Across 633 plate appearances this year, the 29-year-old hit .258/.340/.525 with 37 home runs, 98 RBI, and 88 runs scored. Despite apparently playing through an injury, Devers dominated in the second half of the season. Across 226 plate appearances after the All-Star break, the lefty slugger hit .275 with 18 home runs and a .987 OPS. With Devers sidelined, Giants outfielder Scott Bandura could be in line for more playing time at designated hitter.

Pelicans Sign Christian Shumate to a Training Camp Contract

The New Orleans Pelicans have signed forward Christian Shumate to a training camp contract, according to Paul Garcia of The Spot Up Shot. Shumate went undrafted in 2025 after four seasons at McNeese State, where he earned All-Southland honors each year and won Southland Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 and 2025. He also signed an Exhibit 10 deal with New Orleans last fall, was waived before opening night, and spent the season with the organization's G-League affiliate, averaging 11.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 26.8 minutes across 40 appearances on .516/.340/.405 shooting. The rebounding and defensive activity give him a path to camp interest, but the free-throw number and limited offensive polish keep him well off the fantasy radar unless New Orleans converts him to its open two-way slot.

Max Domi to Miss Start of Training Camp

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Max Domi (back) will sit out the start of training camp next week. According to Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka, Domi remains "out indefinitely" due to complications from offseason surgery. Domi played through injury last season but missed only two games. He recorded 12 goals and 36 points. Because he is still recovering from surgery, Domi may also miss some time at the start of the regular season. Toronto will open its season on Sept. 29 at home against the Montreal Canadiens.

Oneil Cruz Involved in Crash Six Years Ago That Killed Three People

Pro Publica's Gus Garcia-Roberts reports that Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz rear-ended a motorcycle six years ago, killing all three of its passengers and jeopardizing his major-league baseball career. Cruz's parents brought in a fixer to pay off the victims' families so they would not sue and would not demand that prosecutors pursue the case. The fixer, Santo Caraballo, essentially saved Cruz's career and launched his own as one of the most powerful figures in Dominican baseball. Caraballo had also become business partners with Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz. A judge released Cruz on a bond of $34,000 after the incident. In court, a lawyer emphasized that Cruz was one of baseball's "five highest-ranked prospects internationally" and that the accident "hurts the whole town, Oneil above all, who for this will have to go to professional therapy so that he can cope with the trauma." Caraballo ultimately negotiated payments to the three victims' families that totaled nearly $70,000 in exchange for getting them to withdraw their claims against Cruz. The document filed in court states that the families sought to "withdraw" all legal claims against Cruz and that they had not received any "pecuniary interest" for withdrawing the claims. A Pro Publica review of the documents signed shows key differences between paperwork filed with the court and the document NOT filed with the court. It is unclear if Major League Baseball will look further into the matter or if Cruz will be subject to any kind of discipline.

Sean Monahan Fully Healthy Ahead of New Season

Columbus Blue Jackets center Sean Monahan is fully healthy for the start of the season, Mark Scheig of The Hockey Writers reports. Monahan was banged up all year last season and struggled to perform. After being a point-per-game guy in 2024-25, the 31-year-old tallied only 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists) in 78 games. Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said Monahan is feeling "great" ahead of the new campaign. He didn't require any surgeries to get healthy. With no injuries, Monahan could comfortably reach 50-60 points in 2026-27.

Dylan Larkin Will Join Red Wings for Camp Despite Trade Request

Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin will report to training camp despite requesting a trade this offseason, ESPN's Emily Kaplan reports. Larkin hasn't gotten his desired move away from Motown, but he could very well start the season with the Red Wings. However, the 2026 Olympic champion won't be the team captain anymore after the Red Wings announced that they will begin the campaign without a captain. In 2026-27, Larkin will aim to post his sixth consecutive 30-goal season. He has notched at least 67 points in each of the past five seasons.

Mark Stone Signs Two-Year Contract Extension

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Mark Stone inked a two-year, $18 million contract extension on Saturday. The Golden Knights locked up their captain for a pair of more years, with Stone's current contract ending in 2027. Stone will take a small pay cut with his new deal, as the average annual value of his contract will drop from $9.5 million to $9 million. Although having Stone rostered often frustrates fantasy managers because of his health issues, the veteran forward is extremely productive when on the ice — he averaged 1.22 points per game last season.

Payton Pritchard Viewed as a $22 Million Extension Candidate

Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard should be worth about $22 million per year on his next contract, Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe said on the Big 3 NBA podcast. Washburn called Pritchard one of the league's biggest bargains, and the 2024-25 Sixth Man of the Year has a three-year extension window worth roughly $67 million opening in October. Pritchard is making $7.8 million this season and $8.3 million in 2027-28, so a raise is coming if Boston wants to lock him in early. He earned it with career highs of 17.0 points, 5.2 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 32.4 minutes last season. The fantasy concern is usage. Jayson Tatum is back, and Paul George arrived in the Jaylen Brown trade, so Pritchard may not match last year's scoring volume. The threes and assists should still travel, but 17.0 points reads more like a ceiling than a baseline.

Ziaire Williams Eyes Starting Role with Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers guard/forward Ziaire Williams believes he has a real chance to win the team's open starting spot, according to Ron Gutterman of LakersNation.com, who cited Williams' comments to Ryan Ward of Lakers On SI. Asked whether Jonathan Kuminga's move to Minnesota created a real opportunity in Los Angeles, Williams said, "Yeah, I do," though he added that the failed pursuit of Kuminga did not change his mindset. Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler are expected to start when healthy, while Quentin Grimes appears likely to claim another spot, leaving Williams in a battle with Jake LaRavia, Jarred Vanderbilt, Matisse Thybulle, and Sandro Mamukelashvili. Williams averaged 10.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in 22.9 minutes with Brooklyn last season, so the defensive role and steals upside are the clear fantasy hooks. He still needs JJ Redick to choose him before the watch-list case turns into draft-day value.

Joel Embiid's Usage Could Slip Below a Career Low in 2026-27

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (knee) could see his offensive role shrink in 2026-27, according to PhillyVoice's Adam Aaronson. Embiid's usage rate has dropped from 39.6 percent in 2023-24 to 34.2 percent and 33.5 percent over the last two seasons, and Aaronson sees a real chance it falls below his career-low 32.9 percent with LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe alongside him. The former MVP may spend more possessions as a facilitator, decoy, or occasional spot-up option, and the shooting is worth watching after he hit 32.2 percent from deep over the last two seasons. Embiid still averaged 26.9 points in 38 games last season, but that number is harder to bank on in this lineup. A slimmer offseason frame could help his mobility, though availability remains the bigger fantasy concern than usage.

Labaron Philon Jr. Blocked by Sixers' Backcourt Depth

Philadelphia 76ers guard Labaron Philon Jr. has a tougher path to rookie-year minutes than he appeared to have on draft night, according to PhillyVoice's Adam Aaronson. The No. 22 overall pick's best current NBA skill is creating with the ball, but Tyrese Maxey, LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, VJ Edgecombe, and Joel Embiid (knee) all sit ahead of him in the touch hierarchy, while Anfernee Simons and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope give Nick Nurse veteran backcourt options. Philon's quickest route to the floor may be catch-and-shoot threes, movement shooting, and attacking closeouts. Strength is another hurdle, as the 20-year-old is listed at 177 pounds and still needs to add weight. He averaged 22.0 points and 5.0 assists at Alabama, then scored 24 points in a Summer League overtime win over Indiana, so the scoring feel is real. He is a player to monitor, not draft, unless injuries open guard minutes.

Julius Randle Confident Nets Can Exceed Low Expectations

Brooklyn Nets forward Julius Randle is not treating his first season in Brooklyn like another rebuilding year, according to Andrew Crane of the New York Post. Speaking Saturday at the Brooklyn Basketball Training Center, Randle leaned into the team's "shock the world" framing and said, "Whatever your expectations are, whatever expectations that are put upon us, we're gonna exceed them." The three-time All-Star averaged 21.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.0 assists for Minnesota last season before being traded to a Nets team that went 20-62. Brooklyn still has Michael Porter Jr., Egor Demin, and Mikel Brown Jr. in the offensive mix, but Randle should have a larger creation role than he did with the Timberwolves. With Nicolas Claxton now in Chicago, Randle also has a path to frontcourt minutes, giving him a strong counting-stat base if Brooklyn stays competitive.

Jesus Luzardo Hopes to Pitch Next Week

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jesus Luzardo (shoulder) was scratched ahead of his scheduled start against the Atlanta Braves on Saturday. An MRI came back negative for any structural damage, and Luzardo is hopeful to get back on the mound next week, according to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com. The southpaw is dealing with some shoulder stiffness after throwing a complete game during Monday's outing. The Phillies will give him rest and hope that Luzardo can return to the mound at some point next week. The expectation is that Luzardo will return at some point during the four-game series against the New York Mets next weekend. Fantasy managers will need to continue checking back for updates throughout the week.

Nathan Eovaldi is Activated from Injured List

Texas Rangers starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi (elbow) was activated off the 10-day Injured List on Saturday. Eovaldi is back in the mix after going down on August 10 due to right elbow inflammation. The Rangers will have Eovaldi return to the pitching staff as a reliever. There's a chance that he'll build up towards a starter workload again, but for now, Eovaldi will be used out of the bullpen. The 36-year-old figures to be used in a multi-inning role, which likely won't result in a ton of fantasy value. The right-hander could become a cut candidate, with him unlikely to return to the starting rotation in time to help fantasy managers in the playoffs.

Yordan Alvarez is Hopeful to Play on Sunday

According to Chandler Rome, Houston Astros manager Joe Espada said the team is hopeful that outfielder Yordan Alvarez (ankle) will be back in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Alvarez missed his second straight game on Saturday after sustaining an ankle injury during Thursday's contest. It sounds like a minor issue that isn't going to require Alvarez to land on the Injured List. Fantasy managers will need to check back ahead of the first pitch for another update on Alvarez. Yainer Diaz served as the designated hitter during Saturday's loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. The expectation is that Diaz would remain there if Alvarez is unable to play.

Kaelen Culpepper is Dealing with Shoulder Injury

Minnesota Twins shortstop Kaelen Culpepper (shoulder) was removed from Saturday's game against the Cleveland Guardians. He was pulled from the contest after getting hit by a pitch in the upper back. The X-rays came back negative, so the team is considering Culpepper day-to-day with a shoulder contusion, according to Aaron Gleeman. Ryan Kreidler took over for Culpepper at shortstop for the rest of Saturday's game. The expectation is that Kreidler will see the bulk of the playing time there until the rookie shortstop is back in the mix. Fantasy managers should check back ahead of Sunday's contest for another update on his status.

Astros Considering Moving Carlos Correa to Second Base

According to Ken Rosenthal, the Houston Astros are considering moving third baseman Carlos Correa (ankle) over to second base. Correa has been sidelined since undergoing left ankle surgery in mid-May. The organization is hopeful that Correa will be able to return for the final week of the regular season. He has been playing third base in Houston, but the Astros would like to shift him over to second base. If Correa plays second base, Jose Altuve can serve as the designated hitter. Most fantasy leagues might end before Correa gets back to the field. If not, Correa could be worth stashing in deep leagues for the final stretch of the season.

Josh Hart Says Knicks Are Not Satisfied with One Title

New York Knicks guard/forward Josh Hart said the defending champions still view themselves as the hunters entering 2026-27, according to Adam Zagoria of NJ.com. "I don't think we have a big target because I don't think anyone's picking us to win again," Hart said. "We're using it as fuel; we're still the hunters. We're not satisfied with one." The 31-year-old averaged 12.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 66 regular-season games, then remained a key connector during New York's title run. The Knicks brought back most of their core under Mike Brown, so Hart's role should stay built around rebounding, passing, defense, and low-usage offense. Mitchell Robinson's move to Boston leaves Andre Drummond as the main backup behind Karl-Anthony Towns, but Hart's fantasy value still comes from boards and across-the-board production rather than scoring volume.

Nick Smith Jr. Agrees to One-Year Deal with Real Madrid

Free-agent guard Nick Smith Jr. has agreed to a one-year deal with Real Madrid, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. The 22-year-old reached the open market in late June when the Lakers declined their team option, and Scotto reports that he will serve as Real Madrid's lead guard. Smith averaged 7.6 points in 17.5 minutes across three NBA seasons with Charlotte and Los Angeles, with his best stretch coming in 2024-25, when he posted 9.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists for the Hornets. His Lakers stint never gained much traction, though he still averaged 6.2 points in 12.5 minutes across 30 games while shooting 39.5 percent from three. A move to Spain takes him off fantasy boards for 2026-27, and Los Angeles already has Jaden Hardy and Bronny James buried behind Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Quentin Grimes, and Collin Sexton.

Warriors Give Stephen Curry His Pick on Extension Terms

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry can choose his own extension path, with Spotrac's Keith Smith outlining a one-year max, a two-year max worth roughly $136.7 million, or a wait until 2027 free agency, when a three-year deal could become possible. Curry has already said there is "no question" he wants to finish his career with Golden State, so this update is more about timeline than destination. The fantasy read is workload. If 2026-27 is not setting up as a farewell season, the Warriors have reason to manage the 38-year-old after knee trouble limited him to 43 games last season. Curry still averaged 26.6 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.4 threes, but rest nights could push more possessions toward Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, and Yaxel Lendeborg while Jimmy Butler III (knee) and Moses Moody (knee) continue rehabbing.

Jalen Duren Weighs $9.6 Million Qualifying Offer

Restricted free-agent center Jalen Duren has turned down a five-year offer in the $190 million range from the Detroit Pistons and is seriously considering his $9.6 million qualifying offer, according to The Athletic's Sam Amick and Hunter Patterson. Taking that route would put the 22-year-old on track for unrestricted free agency in 2027, with Sacramento reportedly among three serious suitors. Duren is still expected to open as Detroit's starting center if he returns, and the fantasy case remains strong after he averaged 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.8 blocks on 65.0 percent shooting in 28.2 minutes last season. He earned All-Star and All-NBA Third Team honors, and Isaiah Stewart's move to Memphis leaves Paul Reed as the main backup center. A qualifying-offer season would add trade-deadline risk, but Duren's boards, efficiency, and expanded-minute upside remain strong.

Josh Jung Back in Lineup After Returning From Injured List

The Texas Rangers announced on Saturday that they activated third baseman Josh Jung (calf) from the 10-day injured list and optioned catcher Logan O'Hoppe to Triple-A Round Rock in a corresponding move. Jung will return to the Rangers' starting lineup immediately on the road against the Arizona Diamondbacks and right-hander Brandon Pfaadt on Saturday, as he is starting at third base and batting third. The power-hitting right-hander is back in Texas after going 3-for-15 with a home run and two RBI in four minor-league rehab games with Round Rock. The 28-year-old should return to starting third base duties in Texas as the team looks to get into the postseason in the final couple of weeks of the regular season. The former first-rounder from Texas Tech was hitting very well earlier this year, but he has missed most of the second half with his strained calf, so it could be difficult for him to get back in a groove with a short turnaround. Jung is returning to a .294/.361/.441 slash line with an .802 OPS, nine home runs, 35 RBI, 46 runs scored, and a stolen base across his 354 at-bats in 2026. After his long layoff, Jung is only rostered in 20% of Yahoo leagues.

Shea Langeliers Activated and Starting on Saturday

The Athletics announced that they activated catcher Shea Langeliers (knee) from the 10-day injured list and optioned infielder Darell Hernaiz to Triple-A Las Vegas in a corresponding move. Langeliers will serve as the team's designated hitter and bat cleanup in his return on Saturday in Sacramento against the division-rival Seattle Mariners and right-hander Bryan Woo. It is a bit of a surprise that Langeliers is back with the A's before the end of the 2026 season after he had surgery on the meniscus in his right knee in late July. But now that he is back, fantasy managers should check to see if he is available on the waiver wire, as he could still make an impact at the plate for those still playing for a championship late in the season. The 28-year-old right-handed slugger returns to an eight-game hitting streak and a .263/.332/.497 slash line with an .829 OPS, 23 home runs, 51 RBI, 55 runs scored, and two stolen bases in his 376 at-bats this year. The first-time All-Star in 2026 is one of the best power-hitting backstops in baseball, and he is only rostered in 69% of Yahoo leagues. Langeliers has hit just .083 with a .166 OPS in 12 career at-bats against Woo.

Yordan Alvarez Out Again With Ankle Injury

Houston Astros outfielder Yordan Alvarez (ankle) is out of the team's starting lineup for Saturday's game on the road against the Tampa Bay Rays, according to MLB.com. Catcher Yandy Diaz will serve as the designated hitter and bat cleanup, with Christian Vazquez doing the catching for right-hander Peter Lambert and hitting ninth against Rays left-hander Ian Seymour. The Astros are labeling Alvarez as day-to-day for now after he was also held out of Friday's series opener in Tampa with a right-ankle injury. Houston cannot afford to be without the MVP front-runner in the American League down the stretch, so they could play it safe with the 29-year-old left-handed slugger and keep him out for the entire series on the turf in Tampa this weekend. Fantasy managers should check back on Sunday to see if he is active. Alvarez, a four-time All-Star and former AL Rookie of the Year, has been arguably the best overall hitter in all of baseball in 2026, leading the league in walks (100), batting average (.310), on-base percentage (.427), slugging percentage (.590), OPS (1.017), and total bases (308) in 145 games played in his eighth year in the majors.

Justin Steele to Throw Bullpen on Sunday

Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele (elbow) is set to throw a bullpen in Chicago in front of the team's pitching coaches on Sunday. This will give the team a chance to get a good, hard look at the 31-year-old as he continues to work hard toward returning to the mound for the Cubs in 2026. From there, it has been decided that he will throw at least one more outing for Triple-A Iowa, at which time a decision will likely be made regarding what lies ahead. Over three rehab appearances thus far, Steele has thrown 5.2 innings while allowing four earned runs on 10 hits. The good news is that he has recorded six strikeouts and has not walked any batters, backing the fact that he is still working through some rust. If and when he does return this year, it will be as a reliever, as there is not enough time for him to build himself back up to a starter's workload. As such, his fantasy value is minimal.

Rays Calling Up Top Pitching Prospect Brody Hopkins

The Tampa Bay Rays are calling up right-handed pitching prospect Brody Hopkins to the big leagues from Triple-A Durham on Saturday, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. Per MLB Pipeline, Hopkins, 24, is ranked as Tampa's No. 7 overall prospect and their top pitching prospect. The former sixth-round selection by the Seattle Mariners in 2023 from Winthrop University has gone 4-8 this year for the Bulls with a 5.17 ERA, 1.71 WHIP, and 122:92 K:BB in 94 innings across 31 appearances (19 starts). The numbers obviously do not look great on the surface, but Hopkins had been pitching great recently for Durham in a relief role, where he will likely continue in his first taste of the major leagues. Hopkins gets the call to Tampa after throwing six straight shutout innings out of the bullpen at Triple-A, and he will look to stay hot with the Rays. For fantasy purposes, Hopkins should be ignored in single-year formats with the regular season wrapping up at the end of September.

Esmerlyn Valdez Placed on Injured List With Hamstring Strain

The Pittsburgh Pirates placed Esmerlyn Valdez (hamstring) on the injured list on Saturday with a strained left hamstring. The 22-year-old outfielder injured himself on Friday while trying to beat out a ground ball in the sixth inning. He came up limping and was helped off the field. A day later, he was placed on the injured list, keeping him out of action for at least 10 days. The severity of the injury is not yet known, but given the timing, there is a chance that this ends his season. If he doesn't return in 2026, he will finish with 17 home runs over 72 games played, which should keep him in consideration as a late-round draft pick heading into the 2027 draft. In his absence, Jake Mangum should once again be considered as an injury replacement for the Pirates and receive additional opportunities. He has some fantasy appeal, as he has posted a .283/.340/.369 slash line this season with 23 stolen bases over 122 games played.

Freddie Freeman Back in Saturday's Lineup

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman (knee) is starting at first base and is batting in the two-hole for Saturday's contest on the road against the Miami Marlins and right-hander Tyler Phillips, according to MLB.com. Freeman is back in action after missing the last two games with some minor soreness in his right knee. Although the veteran first baseman's knee injury is not expected to impact him the rest of the season, it is worth watching after he has struggled at the plate in seven games so far in September, going 3-for-22 (.136) with a homer, three RBI, five walks, and nine strikeouts. Fantasy managers will be hoping that Freeman, who turns 37 years old on Saturday, can turn it around in the final few weeks of the season when it matters most. The Dodgers will need the former MVP and 10-time All-Star even more with Shohei Ohtani (knee, biceps) on the injured list. On the year, Freeman has hit a strong .297 (156-for-525) with 16 homers, 66 RBI, 72 runs scored, and seven stolen bases in his 17th major-league season. Get him back into your starting lineup against Phillips, whom Freeman has hit .750 against with three RBI in just four career at-bats.

Jack Flaherty Throws Two Simulated Innings

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Jack Flaherty (forearm) threw a two-inning simulated game on Saturday, embarking on what could be the final hurdle before returning to the mound for the Tigers. The 30-year-old has missed the last six weeks because of right forearm flexor inflammation but has made significant strides as of late. Flaherty himself said that he felt great after this outing and is ready to get back on the mound. Whether or not that happens in the coming days remains to be seen, but the fact of the matter is that he is nearing the end of his time on the sidelines. Fantasy managers should be ready to add him to their rosters where possible, but be cognizant of the fact that he may be working out of the bullpen or on a pitch count.

Jac Caglianone Missing his Sixth Straight Game

Kansas City Royals first baseman/outfielder Jac Caglianone (elbow) will sit out for a sixth straight game on Saturday at Fenway Park against the hosting Boston Red Sox, per MLB.com. John Rave will make yet another start in right field for the Royals while batting seventh against Red Sox left-hander Ranger Suarez. Caglianone has been slow to recover from a flexor strain in his left elbow, but the Royals continue to say that he is day-to-day, so the left-handed slugger could have an opportunity to return for the series finale in Boston on Sunday. It is a terrible time for the 23-year-old former first-rounder to miss time with an injury during the fantasy playoffs in most leagues. Caglianone has developed into a must-start asset in fantasy leagues for his power in what has been a strong first full season in the big leagues in 2026. He came into Saturday's action slashing .283/.331/.494 with an .825 OPS, 23 home runs, 70 RBI, 66 runs scored, and six stolen bases across his 474 at-bats. Cags tore the cover off the ball in 24 games in August, hitting .411 (39-for-95) with six home runs, eight doubles, 26 RBI, 17 runs scored, and three steals.

Justin Verlander Faces Live Batters

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander (hamstring/hip) took a big step forward in his injury progression on Saturday by facing live batters prior to the team's game against the Colorado Rockies. This marks the first time that the 43-year-old has faced live hitters since he went on the Injured List very early in the season. It is worth noting that the batters who stood in the box did not take any swings, but the fact that they were there marks a significant step in the right direction. Verlander is hoping to cap off his career with one final start on the final weekend of the season. With the Tigers almost out of playoff contention and with potentially nothing to play for, that feels like the perfect sendoff to one of the game's greats. From a fantasy perspective, he is only worth consideration if he does, in fact, return, but there's no guarantee that he makes it back in time to pitch again.

Zach Edey Eyeing Full Health for Opening Night

Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey (ankle) appears on track for the start of the season after undergoing left ankle surgery in March, ESPN's Michael Wright reports. It was the second procedure on that ankle in nine months, and the recovery limited the 7-foot-3 big man to 11 games in 2025-26. The production was there when he was upright, as Edey averaged 13.6 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks while improving steadily down the stretch. With Memphis fully into a rebuild, his role is expected to grow alongside third overall pick Cameron Boozer, giving the Grizzlies one of the more physical frontcourts in the league. The offseason addition of Isaiah Stewart is worth monitoring as insurance, but if the ankle holds, Edey has a real path into the Most Improved Player conversation.

Knicks Show Interest in Tony Bradley

Free-agent center Tony Bradley is on the New York Knicks' radar ahead of training camp, according to SNY's Ian Begley. The 28-year-old split last season between Indiana and Atlanta, averaging 4.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.5 assists in 11.0 minutes across 41 games. New York has been without a traditional third center since Mitchell Robinson left for Boston and Ariel Hukporti signed with Philadelphia, leaving Karl-Anthony Towns and Andre Drummond as the main bigs on the depth chart. Bradley would not be a fantasy factor if signed, but he would give Mike Brown another body for camp and foul-trouble insurance behind Towns. The only fantasy ripple would be a slight hit to Drummond's spot-start appeal if New York adds another veteran center.

Hawks Waive Lamont Butler

The Atlanta Hawks waived guard Lamont Butler (knee) on Friday, one day after signing him, and on the same day they cut Devin Carter, Hawks reporter Brad Rowland reports. Butler's brief return always looked procedural, with the likely goal of keeping him in the organization's G-League pipeline. His first pro season never got moving after he tore the ACL and meniscus in his left knee during the College Park Skyhawks' preseason process, costing him all of 2025-26. The former San Diego State and Kentucky guard flashed in his lone preseason outing last October, posting 18 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals in 37 minutes. Atlanta still has a standard-roster crunch to solve, but Butler was not a realistic threat for NBA minutes behind CJ McCollum, Dyson Daniels, Kingston Flemings, and Ryan Nembhard. There is no fantasy impact here.

Sergio De Larrea Pushes for Backup Role

Dallas Mavericks guard Sergio de Larrea has a real path to backup point guard minutes entering camp, though nothing has been declared. The Smoking Cuban's Noah Weber reads Dallas' lack of an established veteran point guard addition as a sign of confidence in the rookie. The 20-year-old, taken No. 25 overall in June, sits behind Kyrie Irving (knee) alongside Marcus Sasser as one of the team's main traditional lead-guard options, while Cooper Flagg is also expected to handle creation. De Larrea's Summer League line showed the split: 8.0 points on poor shooting, but 8.8 assists per game, including a 14-assist night against Oklahoma City. Dusty May could still lean on Sasser, so De Larrea is more camp watch than draft target, but the passing gives him a path if Irving misses time.

Devin Carter Floated as Knicks' Guard Insurance

Guard Devin Carter could make sense as backcourt insurance for the New York Knicks once he clears waivers, Kris Pursiainen of Knicks Film School suggested. This comes after Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported that Boston has shown interest in Carter following his release from Atlanta, so New York should be treated as a logical fit rather than a reported suitor. Carter has a tie to head coach Mike Brown, who coached the Sacramento team that drafted him No. 13 overall in 2024. The 24-year-old averaged 8.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 0.9 steals in 18.4 minutes across 38 games last season. New York already has Jalen Brunson, Jordan Clarkson, Jose Alvarado, Landry Shamet, and Tyler Kolek in the guard mix, but Miles McBride missed 28 games after sports hernia surgery. Carter would still need the right landing spot to become more than a watch-list name.

Devin Carter Could Land in Boston

The Boston Celtics have shown interest in signing guard Devin Carter once he clears waivers, according to The Stein Line's Jake Fischer. Atlanta waived the 24-year-old guard on Friday, a little over two months after acquiring him and a 2033 second-round pick from Sacramento. The former No. 13 pick never found steady footing with the Kings, averaging 8.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.8 three-pointers in 18.4 minutes across 38 games last season. His delayed rookie debut after left shoulder surgery did not help, and left ankle and right calf issues cost him more time in 2025-26. Boston has Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Mike Conley ahead of him, with one two-way slot open, so Carter's path would likely be developmental. His 29-point career night in April showed some scoring pop, but there is no immediate fantasy case here.

Walker Kessler Pegged as Worth the Lakers' Price

Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler (shoulder) cost a steep price, but Yahoo Sports senior NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor said his fit in Los Angeles could make the move worth it. The Lakers sent Utah two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round swaps before signing Kessler to a four-year, $130 million deal. The 7-foot-2 big man is fully cleared after left shoulder surgery limited him to five games in 2025-26, and that short sample drives the fantasy case: 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.8 blocks on 70.3 percent shooting. Playing as Luka Doncic's primary rim-runner should keep the field-goal percentage elite and give Kessler a path to career-best scoring volume. The Lakers have Kevon Looney and other frontcourt depth behind him, but Kessler is the clear starter if the shoulder holds up.

Hawks Waive Devin Carter

The Atlanta Hawks have waived guard Devin Carter, HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reports. Atlanta acquired the 13th overall pick of the 2024 draft from Sacramento at the end of June along with a 2033 second-round pick and declined his fourth-year option, valued at $7,370,897 for 2027-28, as part of the transaction. The move was roster math more than evaluation. The Hawks carried 16 guaranteed contracts into Friday and had to reach the 15-man regular-season limit, and cutting Carter got them there without touching the rotation Quin Snyder plans to use. Ryan Nembhard's arrival in the Luguentz Dort deal had already pushed Carter behind CJ McCollum and rookie Kingston Flemings in the guard room. Carter averaged 8.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 18.4 minutes over 38 games last season, never enough volume to matter in standard leagues. He isn't eligible to re-sign with the Kings, and with two teams having moved on inside a year, his next deal likely comes with G-League time attached.

Khaman Maluach in Line for Bigger Role

Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach should see his role expand with Mark Williams (shoulder) sidelined, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks. Williams underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and is expected to miss at least five months, leaving Maluach and Oso Ighodaro as the main internal center options. The 2025 lottery pick barely cracked the rotation as a rookie, averaging 3.0 points and 2.9 rebounds across 46 games, but he raised his profile in Las Vegas by averaging 19.5 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks over four Summer League games while shooting 53.2 percent. Ighodaro is the steadier connector and Marks noted Phoenix was plus-5.1 points per 100 possessions with him at center last season, so Maluach will not be handed the job outright. Still, the size, blocks, and rebounding upside make him a clear camp riser.

Jonathan Huberdeau Will Miss Start of Season

Calgary Flames forward Jonathan Huberdeau (hip) will miss the start of the season. Recently, Flames general manager Craig Conroy revealed that Huberdeau had suffered a setback in his recovery from hip surgery and wouldn't be available at the start of training camp. Unfortunately, Conroy has now delivered an even grimmer update, saying Huberdeau isn't ready to start the season. On the bright side, Huberdeau told reporters on Thursday that he is pain-free. Huberdeau's absence could open the door for a player like Samuel Honzek to get more opportunities early in the season.

Auston Matthews Looking "Amazing" in Pre-Camp Skates

Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (knee) has been turning heads during pre-training camp skates, TSN's Mark Masters reports. Maple Leafs defenseman Christopher Tanev told reporters on Thursday that Matthews has looked "amazing" in the informal skates. Matthews has been hampered by health issues in recent years and underwent MCL surgery in March, which ended his 2025-26 campaign. He posted 53 points (27 goals, 26 assists) in 63 games during a disappointing season. With him now fully healthy, Matthews could bounce back in style in 2026-27.

Kevin Fiala to Miss Start of Training Camp

Los Angeles Kings winger Kevin Fiala (lower leg) won't be available for the start of training camp next week. The Swiss forward has undergone follow-up surgery on the broken leg he sustained during the Olympics in February. Due to the injury, Fiala was limited to 56 NHL outings last season. He posted 18 goals and 40 points. It's uncertain if Fiala will be cleared to join training camp later. Fiala is a year removed from scoring a career-high 35 goals, and he would be sorely missed if the Kings have to start the season without him.

Braeden Bowman Inks Six-Year Extension With Golden Knights

Vegas Golden Knights right wing Braeden Bowman signed a six-year, $20.4 million contract extension on Thursday. He will have a cap hit of $3.4 million starting in the 2027-28 season. Bowman broke into the Golden Knights team last season, appearing in 54 games. He recorded eight goals and 26 points. The 23-year-old was a standout performer in the AHL, with 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists) in 20 games. Bowman will look to cement his place on the team in 2026-27 and is a name fantasy managers should keep an eye on.

Samuel Honzek Ready for Training Camp

Calgary Flames forward Samuel Honzek (upper body) is healthy heading into training camp, Chris Wahl of the Flames' official site reports. The 21-year-old had season-ending upper-body surgery in November. Before his injury, Honzek registered four points (two goals, two assists) and 35 hits in 18 games. He's had a long road to recovery but is back at 100 percent. "I think I'm more than ready to go and fight for a spot again," Honzek told Wahl. With no standout names on Calgary's frontline, Honzek could earn a significant role as the campaign progresses.

Gustav Forsling Participating in Informal Skates

Florida Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling (undisclosed) has been taking part in informal skates ahead of training camp, Jameson Olive of the Panthers' official site reports. Forsling sat out the final two games of the 2025-26 season, but he's good to go for the new campaign. The Swedish rearguard plays a key role in the Panthers' defense. However, his game doesn't translate well to fantasy. Last season, Forsling recorded 28 points (two goals, 26 assists), 112 SOG, 98 blocks, 52 hits, and a minus-five rating in 80 appearances.

Damon Severson "Ready to Roll"

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Damon Severson (shoulder) will be in the lineup at the start of the season, Mark Scheig of The Hockey Writers reports. "He's ready to roll," Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell told Scheig. "We'll probably keep him out of the exhibition games. No real reason for him to play in exhibition games. He's here and he's doing everything right now. We just want to be a little cautious where we keep him out of heavy contact or anything like that. We'll let him get back going. But I expect him to be ready for the start of the season." Severson underwent shoulder surgery late last season. He led all Blue Jackets defensemen with a plus-12 rating and posted 32 points (eight goals, 24 assists) in 71 games.

Ducks Place Chris Kreider on Unconditional Waivers

Anaheim Ducks left wing Chris Kreider was placed on unconditional waivers on Wednesday with the purpose of terminating his contract. He will become an unrestricted free agent if he goes unclaimed. The veteran forward has one season remaining on a seven-year, $45.5 million contract. Anaheim acquired Kreider last offseason from the New York Rangers. He had a decent campaign, with 50 points (22 goals, 28 assists) in 75 outings. However, Kreider wants to return to the East Coast for family reasons. Kreider's departure also benefits the Ducks, giving the team more flexibility to sign restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier.

Blue Jackets "100 Percent" Confident Adam Fantilli Deal Gets Done

Columbus Blue Jackets center Adam Fantilli is expected to sign a new contract before training camp opens next week, Mark Scheig of The Hockey Writers reports. "I'm 100 percent that we'll get this thing done," Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell told Scheig on Wednesday. "It's not imminent, but we're talking on a pretty regular basis now. I talked to his agent over the weekend and going to talk again here today or tomorrow. So, as long as you are talking, I always feel like you're going to find a way to get a solution for everybody and everybody's happy." Fantilli needs a new contract after completing his entry-level deal. He has improved each year and ranked third on his team last season with a career-high 59 points (24 goals, 35 assists) in 82 games.

Ilya Samsonov Joins Sharks on One-Year, Two-Way Deal

Goaltender Ilya Samsonov will attempt an NHL comeback in 2026-27, having signed a one-year, two-way contract with the San Jose Sharks. After six years in the NHL, Samsonov spent the 2025-26 campaign with HC Sochi in the KHL. This could be a smart pickup for the Sharks, given Samsonov's solid play throughout his NHL career. He has posted a 118-48-25 record, a 2.77 goals-against average, and a .902 save percentage. Last season, the Sharks ranked 25th in save percentage, with Yaroslav Askarov and Alex Nedeljkovic sharing starts in the crease.

Senators Expect Artem Zub to Be Ready for Training Camp

Ottawa Senators defenseman Artem Zub (lower body) is expected to be available for training camp, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports. Senators general manager Steve Staios told Garrioch that Zub is still rehabbing from a lower-body injury he suffered during the playoffs, but he expects the Russian rearguard to be fine for training camp. Zub is a versatile defenseman who contributes in all areas. He finished last season with 30 points (five goals, 25 assists), 92 SOG, 120 blocks, and 66 hits in 81 games. The 30-year-old led his team with a plus-22 rating.

Thatcher Demko Remains Without Timeline for Return

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko (hip) doesn't have a timeline for his return, Rick Dhaliwal of CHEK reports. Recent reports indicated that Demko's availability for training camp is in doubt. Since he doesn't have a timeline for a return, the Canucks may also be without Demko at the start of the regular season. Demko had hip surgery in January. His absence leaves Kevin Lankinen as Vancouver's de facto starter. Last season, Lankinen struggled to fill Demko's shoes, posting a 11-27-5 record.

Simon Edvinsson Ready to Participate in Red Wings Camp Without Contract

Detroit Red Wings defenseman Simon Edvinsson plans to attend training camp even if he's still unsigned, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reports. The 23-year-old Swedish blue-liner is a restricted free agent after completing his entry-level contract. Edvinsson has enjoyed back-to-back strong campaigns. In 2025-26, he appeared in 72 regular-season contests, recording 25 points (nine goals, 16 assists), 88 SOG, 148 blocks, 94 hits, and a plus-12 rating. Edvinsson has formed a strong partnership with Moritz Seider in Detroit's defense and is expected to stay in Motown long-term. However, his contract situation remains unresolved as the Red Wings are still looking for a new general manager.

Fraser Minten Signs Seven-Year Extension With Bruins

Boston Bruins center Fraser Minten has committed his long-term future to the franchise, signing a seven-year, $50.4 million contract extension. The contract will kick in with the 2027-28 season after Minten completes his entry-level deal. Minten earned a handsome payday thanks to a promising rookie campaign. The 22-year-old skated in all 82 regular-season games last season, recording 35 points (17 goals, 18 assists), 117 SOG, and 142 hits. Minten led all first-year players with a plus-21 rating. He has a bright future in Boston and will be expected to take another step forward in 2026-27.

Connor Bedard's Recovery on Track

Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard (shoulder) is on track with his recovery from offseason surgery, Scott Powers of The Athletic reports. According to Powers, Bedard's recovery "is going as planned so far." The young Blackhawks star underwent shoulder surgery in early June and was ruled out for four months. Bedard recently began skating in a limited capacity. He still needs one more month to recover, so fantasy managers must take into account that Bedard won't be available at the start of the season.

Filip Gustavsson Still Recovering From Hip Procedure

Minnesota Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson (hip) is still rehabbing from offseason surgery, Michael Russo of The Athletic reports. Gustavsson underwent hip surgery in May and has had the entire summer to recover. However, it's unclear whether he will be able to participate in training camp. His availability for the start of the season is also uncertain. If Gustavsson isn't available for action, Jesper Wallstedt would be a busy man early in the campaign. It would also open opportunities for Calvin Pickard, who was snapped up as a free agent in July.