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Player News
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Daniel Bellinger Could Have Meaningful Role in First Year in Tennessee
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Ron Harper Jr. Re-Signs With Celtics on Four-Year Deal
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Dorian Finney-Smith Unlikely to Suit Up for the Hornets
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Michael Mayer to See an Uptick in Production in New Offense?
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Chris Rodriguez Jr. Could Carve Out an Important Role in Jaguars Backfield
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George Springer Reinstated but Not Starting on Monday
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Daniel Bellinger Could Have Meaningful Role in First Year in Tennessee
The Tennessee Titans targeted tight end Daniel Bellinger in free agency back in March, and he could have a meaningful role in offensive coordinator Brian Daboll's scheme in 2026 in his first year in Nashville, according to Jim Wyatt of the team's official website. "I can't answer exactly what Dabes has planned," said Bellinger, who played under Daboll in New York. "But I know he's going to try and stretch the ball everywhere. He's going to try to be a dynamic play-caller like he's been, and I think we have a lot of talent and a lot of guys." The 6-foot-6, 255-pounder was a fourth-rounder by the Giants in 2022 out of San Diego State. Bellinger had 88 catches for 934 yards and four touchdowns in his first four seasons with New York while playing in 62 games (42 starts). He had just 19 receptions for 286 yards and two TDs last year in the Big Apple, but he's hoping to take his game to another level in 2026 in his first year with the Titans, specifically after the catch. Chig Okonkwo is now gone, but Gunnar Helm is expected to handle most of the receiving work at TE in his second year in the NFL. Bellinger could earn consistent snaps alongside Helm, but he will most likely be a blocking-first TE, making him avoidable in most fantasy leagues. -
Ron Harper Jr. Re-Signs With Celtics on Four-Year Deal
Boston Celtics forward Ron Harper Jr. has signed a four-year, $13.7 million deal to stay in Boston, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reports, with $6.5 million guaranteed and the first two seasons locked in. That's an above-minimum, guaranteed commitment for a former two-way player, a real vote of confidence from Boston's development machine. The 26-year-old flashed his skill set in the G League, averaging 24.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals for Maine, though his NBA role stayed modest at 4.0 points in 11.0 minutes across 29 games. For fantasy, the role picture is more crowded than it looks. Boston moved on from Jaylen Brown, but the same trade brought back veteran wing Paul George, and with Jayson Tatum returning to full strength alongside Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, the perimeter is deep. Harper is buried for now. The guaranteed money still says Boston believes in him, making him an intriguing long-term stash, but his path to 2026-27 minutes is narrow. -
Dorian Finney-Smith Unlikely to Suit Up for the Hornets
Charlotte Hornets forward Dorian Finney-Smith is unlikely to ever suit up for his new team, Rod Boone of the Charlotte Observer reports, now that the salary-dump trade sending him from Houston is official and Charlotte has sent cash considerations to complete it. The Hornets took on his contract purely for draft capital and are expected to waive, buy out, or flip the veteran, making him available to contenders soon. For fantasy, keep expectations low. Finney-Smith is a 33-year-old 3-and-D wing coming off the worst season of his career, as offseason ankle surgery held him to 37 games and a career-worst 27.0 percent from three, far off his 35.9 percent career mark. The only thing to track is where he signs next. Even in a good spot, a healthy Finney-Smith is a back-end 3-and-D wing, not a fantasy piece, and right now he's a long way from healthy and productive. -
Michael Mayer to See an Uptick in Production in New Offense?
Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers should be the focal point of new head coach Klint Kubiak's offense in 2026, but Kubiak's deployment of two tight ends on the field at the same time could help Michael Mayer's production as the top TE backup, according to Sam Warren of The Athletic. Beyond Bowers and Mayer, Ian Thomas and Carter Runyan could battle for the TE3 job in training camp this summer. Mayer, who was taken in the second round (35th overall) in 2023 out of Notre Dame, caught a career-high 35 passes on 50 targets for 328 yards and only one touchdown in 13 games (12 starts) for the Raiders in 2025 in his third year in the league. He was on the TE streaming radar with Bowers missing some time with injuries last year, but in the end, Mayer's numbers left a lot to be desired. His ceiling will obviously be capped because of Bowers' presence, but he could threaten for even more production if Kubiak involves him more as a pass-catcher alongside Bowers. Mayer should go undrafted in standard 12-team leagues, but if Bowers misses more time with an injury in 2026, he'll be a priority waiver-wire pickup at the position. -
Chris Rodriguez Jr. Could Carve Out an Important Role in Jaguars Backfield
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen loved running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. when the pair were together at the University of Kentucky, so The Athletic's Jeff Howe says not to be surprised if the "power ball-carrier carves out an important role" in his first year with the team in 2026. The former sixth-rounder in 2023 had 920 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in three seasons with the Washington Commanders. It was nothing to write home about, but Howe thinks we should be prepared for C-Rod "to be an important piece of the offense in 2026." Last year's RB1 in Jacksonville, Travis Etienne Jr., left in free agency, so Rodriguez and Bhayshul Tuten figure to compete for the majority of backfield touches in Duvall this year. Second-year back LeQuint Allen Jr. figures to see most of the pass-catching work in an increased Year 2 role, but Rodriguez could be used often on early downs and in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Tuten is still the better home run hitter/upside back for fantasy managers, but don't be surprised if Rodriguez is in play as an RB3/flex in the right matchups in his first year in Jacksonville. RotoBaller has him ranked as the No. 42 RB for 2026. -
George Springer Reinstated but Not Starting on Monday
The Toronto Blue Jays announced on Monday that they reinstated designated hitter/outfielder George Springer from the family medical emergency list and placed right-hander Braydon Fisher on the bereavement list in a corresponding move. Springer is active for Monday's series opener in San Francisco against the Giants, but he is not in the starting lineup. Sean Keys is serving as the DH and is batting fifth against Giants right-hander Landen Roupp. Fantasy managers should expect Spring to be back in Toronto's starting lineup for Game 2 of the series at Oracle Park on Tuesday. The 36-year-old four-time All-Star has mostly struggled in 2026 after a resurgent season last year that saw him hit .309/.399/.560 with a .959 OPS, 32 home runs, 84 RBI, and 18 stolen bases in 140 regular-season games before helping the Jays reach the World Series. He comes into Monday's game hitting just .221 (54-for-244) in 2026 with eight homers, 21 RBI, and six steals in 63 games. Fantasy managers will be hoping that Springer can pick up where he left off before leaving the team for personal reasons. Springer went 16-for-57 (.281) with two homers, a double, a triple, five RBI, eight runs, and three steals in his last 14 games, dating back to June 14. -
Kings Waiving DeMar DeRozan After Exploring Trade Talks
The Sacramento Kings are waiving forward DeMar DeRozan, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. The sides reportedly worked together on the move after exploring trade options, leaving the six-time All-Star headed for free agency. DeRozan still has fantasy value as a scoring and free-throw contributor after averaging 18.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists across 77 starts last season. In Sacramento, his exit should free up usage for Zach LaVine and Malik Monk, while Keegan Murray and De'Andre Hunter have a clearer path to forward minutes. -
Rui Hachimura Signs Two-Year Deal With the Clippers
Free-agent forward Rui Hachimura is staying in Los Angeles, just switching sides of town, agreeing to a two-year, $28 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, Shams Charania of ESPN reports. He turned down interest from Minnesota, Golden State, and others to remain in L.A., and he slots in as the Clippers' projected starting power forward after their post-Kawhi Leonard makeover. Hachimura is a plug-and-play floor-spacer, coming off 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds on 51.4 percent shooting and 44.3 percent from three, and then 56.9 percent from deep in the playoffs. The fantasy read is measured, though. A starting role helps, but Hachimura is a low-usage complementary piece next to ball-dominant scorers Darius Garland and Brandon Ingram, which caps his counting stats. He's a late-round forward whose value lives in efficiency, threes, field-goal percentage, and rebounds, not volume. -
Quinten Post Lands Three-Year, $30 Million Offer Sheet From Memphis
Golden State Warriors restricted free-agent center Quinten Post is signing a three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Memphis Grizzlies, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. The Warriors have until 11:59 p.m. ET on Tuesday to match the deal. Post averaged 7.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 17.3 minutes across 67 games last season, while his career 36.4 percent mark from deep gives him a clean stretch-big fantasy hook. Memphis would offer a clearer long-term path, but Zach Edey still caps Post's short-term minutes ceiling if Golden State declines to match. -
Tommy Edman Remains Out on Monday With Ankle/Foot Injury
Los Angeles Dodgers infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman (ankle, foot) will take a seat again for Monday's series opener against the Colorado Rockies, per MLB.com. Edman will miss a second straight game after he was scratched from the lineup for Sunday's series finale against the San Diego Padres with soreness in his right ankle/foot. It's something worth keeping a close eye on, as Edman had surgery on the same ankle/foot in the offseason, which caused him to get a late start in 2026. The good news is that Edman should be fine going forward after just being hit by a pitch in Saturday's win over the Friars. Veteran Miguel Rojas is starting at the keystone and will hit eighth on Monday at home against the visiting Rockies and left-hander Kyle Freeland. In just 16 games played so far this year, Edman has gone 17-for-49 (.347) with a homer, nine RBI, six runs scored, and a stolen base. He typically hasn't been much of a fantasy asset in his career due to limited power/speed upside, but he's played well in a small sample size and offers eligibility at second base, third base, and the outfield. -
Dustin May to be Limited to Around 65 Pitches on Monday
St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Dustin May (ankle) has been cleared to make his start on Monday against the division-rival Milwaukee Brewers, but he will be held to around 65 pitches due to his workload over the last few weeks, according to Jeff Jones of the Belleville News. The 28-year-old has had a couple of injury scares of late, most recently being pulled from his most recent start last Thursday against the Atlanta Braves after just two-thirds of an inning, when he was hit by a comebacker in his right ankle. Thankfully, X-rays came back negative, but he'll be on a short leash after having not thrown more than 44 pitches in a start in three weeks. Not only is May's matchup to begin the week a bad one, but a limited pitch count will take him off the streaming radar. May should have a more regular workload this weekend in a rematch against the Braves, but he won't be very intriguing in that matchup either. May has been up and down in 2026 in his first year in St. Louis, going 5-6 with a 4.80 ERA (3.37 FIP) and 1.27 WHIP with 78 strikeouts and 24 walks in 84 1/3 innings over his 16 starts. -
Jazz Chisholm Jr. Back in Yankees Starting Lineup
New York Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. (toe) was included in the team's starting lineup for Monday's series opener in Tampa against the division-rival Rays, according to MLB.com. Chisholm is starting at second base and is batting sixth versus Rays right-hander Griffin Jax. The Yankees pulled Chisholm from Sunday's loss to the Minnesota Twins early due to discomfort in his right big toe, but X-rays came back negative, and he ended up not missing a start at all. The 28-year-old left-handed slugger has elite power/speed upside for a position player eligible at second base in fantasy, but he's not without his issues. Chisholm has a strikeout rate that sits at 28.9% and a .307 on-base percentage in his 85 games across 336 plate appearances. But he enters Monday's action with 12 home runs, 33 RBI, 26 stolen bases, and 43 runs scored in his second full season with the Yankees. Chisholm has hit .200 (9-for-45) with a homer, a double, two RBI, five stolen bases, four runs, two walks, and 16 strikeouts in his last 14 games since June 20. -
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Remains an Elite Wide Receiver Option Entering 2026
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba was arguably the best pass-catcher in football in 2025, recording 119 catches for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns on 163 targets across 17 games. The 24-year-old was remarkably efficient, averaging 3.61 yards per route run while seeing 35.8% of the Seahawks' total targets. Entering 2026, Smith-Njigba once again profiles as the clear number one option in a Seattle passing game that lacks another obvious high-volume target-earner. The Seahawks threw the ball at the third-lowest rate in the NFL in 2025 but may be forced to turn to the air more often this season after losing running back Kenneth Walker III to the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. With Smith-Njigba entering the prime of his career, he has a legitimate case to be the number one overall pick in redraft leagues ahead of 2026. -
Should Redraft Managers Avoid Matthew Stafford at His Current ADP?
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford had a historic season in 2025, throwing for 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns, and eight interceptions across 17 games and being named the NFL's MVP. Stafford was an elite fantasy QB last season, particularly in leagues that award six points per passing touchdown. Still, there are multiple reasons to expect regression from Stafford in 2026. For one, the veteran quarterback is entering his age-38 season and has a history of back and neck issues. Stafford also posted a 7.7% touchdown rate as a passer in 2025, which is well above his career mark of 4.8%. By measure of per-game scoring, Stafford finished outside the top-24 at the quarterback position in 2024. However, he's currently being valued as a low-end QB1/high-end QB2 by average draft position in redraft formats. Unless his price continues to come down, Stafford may be a player for redraft managers to avoid in 2026. -
Does Calvin Ridley Carry Sneaky Redraft Sleeper Appeal into 2026?
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley (leg) had a season to forget in 2025, as he played in just seven games and suffered a season-ending broken fibula in Week 11. The 31-year-old finished the year with just 17 catches for 303 yards and zero touchdowns on 36 targets. Entering 2026, Ridley may now profile as the third option in the Titans' passing game behind slot receiver Wan'Dale Robinson and rookie wideout Carnell Tate. Still, the overall offensive environment in Tennessee should be improved with Brian Daboll in place as the play-caller and quarterback Cam Ward entering his second season. Ridley should be fully healthy for the start of the 2026 season, and he recorded back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 2023 and 2024. Fantasy managers should no longer expect peak production from Ridley, but he may still be a value selection as the 67th wide receiver off the board by average draft position in redraft leagues. -
Dalton Kincaid May Be Overvalued by Current Redraft ADP
Across 12 games in 2025, Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid recorded 39 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns on 49 targets. The 26-year-old has flashed upside since entering the league in 2023, but he's missed nine games due to injury over the past two seasons. The Bills have also limited Kincaid's workload even in games where he's been active, as he failed to reach 50% of Buffalo's offensive snaps in any game after Week 5 in 2025. Entering 2026, Kincaid is reportedly fully healthy. However, the Bills added a high-volume target over the offseason in wide receiver DJ Moore and still have tight ends Dawson Knox and Jackson Hawes on their roster. As the TE12 by average draft position in redraft formats, Kincaid may be overvalued entering 2026. -
Ty Simpson is a Prime Target for Dynasty Rebuilds
The Los Angeles Rams surprised many when they selected quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Simpson was a productive player for the University of Alabama in 2025, completing 64.5% of his pass attempts for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and five interceptions across 15 games. Still, Los Angeles has the reigning NFL MVP ahead of Simpson on their quarterback depth chart in Matthew Stafford. As long as Stafford stays healthy, Simpson is at least one year and possibly longer from taking over under center for the Rams. However, Stafford is entering his age-38 season and has a history of back issues. Simpson is also in an ideal developmental spot in Los Angeles under Rams head coach Sean McVay. For dynasty managers engaged in a rebuild, targeting Simpson is a logical move. -
Is Fernando Mendoza Undervalued in Redraft Leagues?
The No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza, profiles as his new team's long-term answer under center. Mendoza had a dominant junior season at the University of Indiana in 2025, completing 72% of his pass attempts for 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions across 16 games. The 22-year-old also showed some ability to produce with his legs, recording 276 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Currently, Mendoza appears to be entering his rookie training camp behind both Kirk Cousins and Aidan O'Connell on the Raiders' quarterback depth chart. However, Cousins is entering his age-38 season, and O'Connell has not shown anything more than quality backup quarterback production to this point in his career. Mendoza could easily emerge as the starter in Las Vegas early on in 2026. With a current average draft position of QB27, Mendoza may be undervalued in redraft formats. -
Walbert Urena a Rookie Strikeout Arm to Add Now?
Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Walbert Urena has worked his way into the 12-team waiver mix with a 3.03 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, and 75 strikeouts through 77 1/3 innings. The 22-year-old held Seattle to one run and one hit over 5 2/3 innings on July 2, bouncing back after Oakland tagged him for seven runs in his previous start. The walks are the part that can still make this frustrating. Urena has issued 41 free passes, and his 12.2% walk rate shows up in the WHIP even with the strong ERA. Still, a 3.26 xERA and 33.2% hard-hit rate support most of what he has done so far. RotoBaller lists Urena at 34% rostered in Yahoo formats and recommends him in 12-team leagues. He is worth adding for managers who need innings and steady strikeout help. -
Charlie Condon Firmly in "Must-Stash" Territory Ahead of All-Star Break
Colorado Rockies outfield prospect Charlie Condon is mashing at Triple-A Albuquerque this season, and with his prospect pedigree, it could be a matter of time before he forces his way to Coors Field. Condon, who can play first base or the outfield, is hitting .294 this season with Albuquerque, with 20 homers and 60 RBI to go with five stolen bases. The former No. 3 overall pick is on the verge of his first big league look, and fantasy managers should act accordingly. Now is the time to roster Condon as a stash, and despite a deep outfield at the big-league level, with TJ Rumfield manning first base, he looks ready to force his way into a roster spot with Colorado. Condon could prove to be a second-half difference-maker in fantasy leagues, and the race to roster him could be on. -
Curtis Mead a Must-Add for Power Help?
Washington Nationals third baseman Curtis Mead is not going to help every roster the same way, but the power is getting harder to ignore. Mead is batting just .232 through 237 at-bats, so there is some batting-average risk here. He has still supplied 14 home runs, 39 RBI, 38 runs, and five steals, which is a useful return for a player available in most leagues. The appeal gets better because Mead qualifies at first base, second base, and third base in RotoBaller's rankings. His 10.9% barrel rate and 41.9% hard-hit rate also suggest the power is not just empty box-score noise. Fantasy managers should not treat him like a safe average play, and the profile can be streaky. Still, Mead is only 18% rostered on Yahoo, and RotoBaller recommends him in 12-team leagues. That makes him a reasonable power add for corner or middle-infield spots. -
Luke Adams Worth a Look in Deep Leagues Amid Clear Path to MLB At-Bats
Milwaukee Brewers third base prospect Luke Adams is producing in the minor leagues in the midst of an injury-plagued season. Adams is hitting .252 with 13 homers and 32 RBI in 131 at-bats this season, to go with five stolen bases between two levels, including Triple-A Nashville. The Brewers' No. 12 overall prospect, Adams suffered a wrist injury early this season but returned to post strong numbers in Nashville and offer a glimpse of his upside at third base. David Hamilton mans the hot corner at the big league level for the Brewers at the moment, but Adams, a right-handed bat, is providing some evidence that he could be ready for a look at the major leagues and could be a platoon partner for the left-handed-hitting Hamilton. Savvy fantasy managers in deep leagues may want to look into Adams and give him a chance at a roster spot ahead of the All-Star break. -
Willi Castro a Useful Waiver Add Despite Playing-Time Risk?
Colorado Rockies second baseman Willi Castro still offers enough category help and roster flexibility to stay in the waiver mix, but this is not a clean must-add. Castro is batting .269 with six home runs, 38 runs, 35 RBI, and six steals through 268 at-bats. He has also gone 33-for-116 (.284) with four homers, 16 runs, 17 RBI, and three steals over his last 30 games, even with a colder stretch mixed in. The concern is playing time. Castro has gone just 4-for-27 over his last seven games, and Colorado has started sitting him more often against right-handed pitching. His eligibility at first base, second base, third base, shortstop, and outfield still gives fantasy managers several ways to use him. With his Yahoo roster rate down to 40%, Castro fits as a 12-team bench option for managers who need flexibility, not as a priority pickup. -
Kade Anderson's Elite Double-A Production Makes him a Priority Stash
Seattle Mariners pitching prospect Kade Anderson suffered his first loss at Double-A Arkansas following his July 3 start. He only allowed two earned runs to pick up his first loss of the season in his 8-1 overall record. His numbers look video game worthy with a 1.36 ERA and 0.69 WHIP with 108 strikeouts in 72 2/3 innings pitched. The No. 3 overall draft pick out of LSU has dominated the minors in his first season of professional baseball. Before a stop in Seattle and a spot in the Mariners rotation, Anderson would likely need some seasoning at Triple-A. So while his numbers call out for a stash for fantasy managers, some patience is required. Managers in mid-size leagues would be smart to use a roster spot now on Anderson and wait to see if it pays off. The prospect pedigree looks elite for Anderson, and it's worth using an early roster spot to acquire his services. -
Dylan Crews Showing Signs of a Post-Hype Breakout?
Washington Nationals right fielder Dylan Crews still has not fully broken through, but the fantasy case is getting easier to see. He is batting .232 with six home runs, 18 RBI, 23 runs, and five steals through 155 at-bats. That line is still uneven, but Crews has gone 18-for-58 with two homers, 12 runs, four RBI, three steals, and six walks over his last 15 games. This is more upside bet than finished product. Crews is hitting the ball hard, with a 90.9 mph average exit velocity, 44.2% hard-hit rate, and 9.2% barrel rate, and his speed gives him another path to fantasy value. The .232 average and low walk rate are real concerns, so this should not be framed as a safe five-category breakout yet. Crews is rostered in 35% of Yahoo leagues and belongs in 12-team formats. -
Rockies Outfield Prospect Zac Veen on the Verge of a Promotion?
Colorado Rockies outfield prospect Zac Veen continues to impress at the Triple-A level this season, and his latest demonstration is a two-homer game for Albuquerque on July 5. Veen is about as solid as it comes as a minor league hitter for the Rockies. The 24-year-old is hitting .323 with 16 homers and 58 RBI in Albuquerque this season, along with 14 stolen bases. The five-tool product is worth a speculative roster spot on most fantasy rosters, as he could enjoy a great deal of success if promoted to the Rockies and able to play his home games at Coors Field. Veen is the No. 13 prospect on the Rockies' top prospects list, but he is putting up some of the best numbers in the system at the moment. Stashing him now might be the right move for managers to make in preparation for his call-up, as he could provide immense upside once he returns to the majors. Jake McCarthy, Cole Carrigg, and Mickey Moniak are performing well in the outfield now for Colorado, but the prospects of Veen are nonetheless very enticing for the big league club. -
Tatsuya Imai Worth a Waiver Claim for Strikeouts?
Houston Astros starting pitcher Tatsuya Imai is a tough player to trust, but the strikeouts keep him on the waiver-wire radar. The 28-year-old is 5-4 with a 6.14 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 60 strikeouts through 48 1/3 innings. He struck out 11 over six innings against Cleveland on June 19 and followed with 10 strikeouts over six scoreless innings at Detroit on June 25. Then came the reminder of why he is still available. Imai lasted only 1 1/3 innings against Minnesota on July 1, allowing five runs and walking five. His 27.9% strikeout rate is useful, but a 14.0% walk rate and 46.3% hard-hit rate explain the ugly ratios. Imai is rostered in 40% of Yahoo leagues, and RotoBaller lists him as an add in 12-team formats. He fits teams chasing strikeouts, not managers protecting ERA and WHIP. -
Nick Gonzales a Must-Add While the Bat Is This Hot?
Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Nick Gonzales is making it harder to explain why he is still available in so many leagues. He is batting .312 with four home runs, 49 runs, 40 RBI, and four steals through 317 at-bats, and the bat has stayed hot into July. Gonzales is 13-for-27 over his last seven games and 22-for-54 with two homers, 11 runs, and seven RBI over his last 15. The appeal is not just one hot week. Gonzales qualifies at second base, third base, and shortstop in RotoBaller's rankings, which makes the production easier to fit into fantasy lineups. The power is still more useful than exciting, with a 2.8% barrel rate, so managers should not add him expecting a home-run surge. But a .300-plus bat with runs, RBI, a few steals, and that much eligibility should be rostered. Gonzales is at 30% on Yahoo and belongs in 12-team leagues. -
Top Boston Prospect Franklin Arias Not Quite Worth a Roster Stash
Boston Red Sox shortstop prospect Franklin Arias is impressing at Double-A this season, but he could be a long way away from making an impact in fantasy leagues. Double-A Portland has been good to the 20-year-old, as he has amassed 17 homers and 47 RBI while hitting .332 with five stolen bases. The numbers are mighty impressive for Boston's top overall prospect, but at just 20 years old, he would likely need a lengthy look at Triple-A before he would make his major league debut. Arias ranks as the No. 4 prospect in the minors at shortstop, but the Venezuelan is most likely to make his debut in Boston next year. He continues to impress in the minors but is likely not worth using a roster spot this season. His name is one to definitely file away as he continues to progress, but next year might be his time to shine on fantasy teams. -
Do Joshua Baez's Elite Power Numbers Make Him the Top Stash Target?
St. Louis Cardinals outfield prospect Joshua Baez continues to show off his power with another multi-home run game in the bag already in July. Baez gained notoriety when he hit four home runs in a June game for Triple-A Memphis and has yet to slow down. His overall power numbers at Memphis are elite and some of the best power numbers across all levels of the minor leagues. In all, he is hitting .263 with 28 homers and 69 RBI and has added 14 stolen bases. The numbers seem to scream promotion, but the Cardinals are being extremely patient with the 23-year-old. With the likes of Jordan Walker, Nathan Church, and Lars Nootbaar manning the outfield positions, St. Louis is in good hands at the major league level. They can afford to be patient, but there is not much more to see from Baez before believing he is ready for the next level. Fantasy managers in mid-to-deep leagues would be wise to use a roster spot on Baez now and could potentially reap the rewards later. -
Braves Promote Top Pitching Prospect Owen Murphy, a Top Add in All Leagues?
The Atlanta Braves announced on Monday that they selected the contract of right-handed pitching prospect Owen Murphy from Triple-A Gwinnett and placed left-hander Martin Perez (forearm) on the 15-day injured list in a corresponding move with a left-forearm contusion. Murphy, the team's No. 6 prospect per MLB Pipeline, gets his first major-league call-up after going 5-7 with a 4.44 ERA and 1.26 WHIP with 92 strikeouts and 38 walks in 81 innings in 16 starts this year with Double-A Columbus and Gwinnett. The 6-foot-1, 190-pounder is reportedly set to be a long man out of Atlanta's bullpen to close out the first half of the season, so fantasy managers in redraft leagues can hold off on spending money to pick him up off the waiver wire. In addition, pitching prospect JR Ritchie is back in the big leagues and will continue to feature in a relief role. Murphy's control has been impressive after returning from Tommy John surgery, and he has all the ingredients to be a long-term starting asset for the Braves, but that might not happen full-time until 2027. -
Carlos Rodon Expected to be Out Until Mid-August
New York Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodon (elbow) is expected to be out until mid-August with a left-elbow injury, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Rodon doesn't have any structural damage to his UCL, but he's dealing with significant inflammation in his elbow and will be out for at least four to six weeks. It's bad news for the Yankees and Rodon's fantasy managers, obviously, and it's especially concerning after he missed the start of the 2026 season while recovering from surgery last October to remove loose bodies and to shave down a bone spur in the same elbow. The 33-year-old three-time All-Star had his best year in the Bronx in 2025, going 18-9 with a 3.09 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, and 203:73 K:BB in 195 1/3 innings pitched. Rodon has gone 4-2 this year with a 3.30 ERA (3.46 FIP) and 1.25 WHIP with 52 K's and 26 walks in 46 1/3 innings across his nine starts. His strikeout rate sits at 26.8%, which is his highest mark since 2022, his lone season with the San Francisco Giants. Rodon should be held in the majority of fantasy leagues where he's rostered. -
Spencer Horwitz Could Return Shortly After All-Star Break
Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington said that first baseman Spencer Horwitz (hamstring) is progressing well in Florida, but he will be sidelined until after the All-Star break next week, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Colin Beazley. However, Horwitz is still expected to come off the 10-day injured list in July, with the hope that it's not too long after the break. The 28-year-old left-handed hitter was placed on the IL on June 25 with a strained left hamstring, but it appears he should be ready to go on a minor-league rehab assignment sooner rather than later. Before landing on the shelf, the former 24th-round pick by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2019 out of Radford University was hitting a strong .280/.386/.455 with an .842 OPS, 10 homers, 33 RBI, 36 runs scored, and a stolen base in his 246 at-bats in his second year in the Steel City. Horwitz needs just three more home runs to set a new career high in the category. He's rostered in 15% of Yahoo leagues while he rehabs. -
Oneil Cruz Still Expected to Return in July
Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington said that outfielder Oneil Cruz (hand) is progressing well in Florida and is expected to return in July, according to Colin Beazley of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Cruz won't make it back from the 10-day injured list before the All-Star break next week, but the Pirates are hoping he'll be back early in the second half later this month. The 27-year-old ditched his cast and resumed baseball activities at the team's complex in Florida last week. Cruz is nearing a minor-league rehab assignment and could be back for fantasy managers near the start of the second half of the season on July 17. The Dominican outfielder and former shortstop is a five-category contributor when healthy, so he should be stashed in all fantasy leagues while he recovers. He will be returning to a .264/.350/.472 slash line, .822 OPS, 14 home runs, 44 RBI, 45 runs scored, and 21 stolen bases when he's reinstated from the IL. -
Jonah Heim Drives in Six, Worth a Short-Term Pickup at Catcher?
Athletics catcher Jonah Heim could be playing regularly in the final week before the All-Star break if Shea Langeliers (thumb) lands on the injured list. Serving as the designated hitter in Sunday's series finale against the visiting Miami Marlins, the 31-year-old veteran had a day to remember at the dish, going 2-for-4 with a grand slam, six RBI, and a strikeout in the team's 9-8 loss at Sutter Health Park. The former All-Star is now hitting .241/.300/.490 with a .790 OPS, nine home runs, 29 RBI, and 20 runs scored in 46 total games this year with the A's and Atlanta Braves. Since joining the A's, he's gone 26-for-106 (.245) with eight home runs, 21 RBI, and 16 runs scored in 34 games across 115 plate appearances. Heim's fantasy value in two-catcher leagues has seen a boost with the move to Sacramento, and he'll be worth a look off the waiver wire if Langeliers is forced to miss additional time due to a thumb injury. As an All-Star in 2023 with the Texas Rangers, Heim hit a career-high 18 homers and drove in 95 in 131 regular-season games. -
Heriberto Hernandez Records Second Multi-Homer Game Against A's
Miami Marlins outfielder Heriberto Hernandez has come on strong since the start of June and recorded his second multi-homer performance in Sunday's 9-8 win over the Athletics at hitter-friendly Sutter Health Park in Sacramento. Hernandez went 3-for-4 at the plate with two solo home runs, a double, two walks, and a strikeout to boost his season average to .234 and his OPS to .771. The 26-year-old second-year outfielder has been a platoon player in the corner outfield spots for Miami in 2026, but he could start to earn regular playing time if he continues to crush baseballs into the second half of the season. Since June 1, Hernandez has gone 24-for-89 (.270) with nine of his 11 home runs on the year, six doubles, 16 RBI, and 16 runs scored in 26 games and 99 plate appearances. Overall, the Dominican outfielder has slashed .234/.314/.457 with 34 RBI, 22 runs scored, and five stolen bases in 184 at-bats. He has slightly lowered his strikeout rate to 22.7% in his second MLB season, and he could start to attract interest in deeper fantasy leagues for his power. Hernandez is rostered in only 2% of Yahoo leagues. -
Rafael Devers Extends Hitting Streak With Two Homers on Sunday
San Francisco Giants first baseman Rafael Devers went 2-for-5 at the plate with two solo home runs and two RBI on Sunday in the 7-6 loss to the division-rival Colorado Rockies at Coors Field to extend his current hitting streak to nine games. Both of his homers came off starter Tanner Gordon. Devers is locked in at the dish right now, going 12-for-33 (.364) with six home runs, a double, nine RBI, and seven runs scored during his nine-game hitting streak, which began on June 26. The strong recent run from the 29-year-old left-handed-hitting Dominican infielder has boosted his season slash line to .248/.310/.481 with a .791 OPS, 18 home runs, 47 RBI, and 43 runs scored across his 343 at-bats in his first full season with the Giants. Devers has been mentioned as a possible trade target for contending teams this summer, but his big contract could be a deterrent. The three-time All-Star is no longer a lock to give you a high batting average, but he still has enough power from the left side of the plate to be a must-start in all fantasy leagues, even at pitcher-friendly Oracle Park. -
Aaron Ashby Still Worth Rostering After Rough June?
Milwaukee Brewers left-handed reliever Aaron Ashby still leads the league with 12 wins in his 42 appearances (one start) over 52 2/3 innings pitched, which has made him rosterable in fantasy despite not having a path to saves in Milwaukee's bullpen. However, the hard-throwing southpaw struggled in his 13 appearances in June, allowing 12 runs (10 earned) on 14 hits (three homers) while walking eight and striking out 17 in 14 innings pitched. He had two wins, a loss, three blown saves, and three holds during that span. Ashby picked up his 12th victory of the year in his first outing in July, but he allowed another earned run in one-third of an inning in his most recent outing on Sunday against the Arizona Diamondbacks for his fifth hold of 2026. The former fourth-rounder in 2018 out of Crowder College has a career-high 30.6% strikeout rate and has obviously been great in the win department for fantasy managers, but his career-high 12.2% walk rate makes him a bit volatile as well. Ashby might pick up a save here or there, but fantasy managers can't necessarily count on the wins continuing to flow. He's rostered in 36% of Yahoo leagues. -
Christian Scott a Top Pitching Target Despite Homer Allowance
New York Mets right-hander Christian Scott has looked good for the most part in 11 starts (49 innings) for the Mets this year in his first season back from Tommy John surgery. The 27-year-old has gone 2-1 with a 3.49 ERA (4.35 FIP) and 1.35 WHIP with 60 strikeouts and 25 walks in just his second season in the majors. Scott has only allowed more than three earned runs in one of his 11 starts so far this year and has a nice 28% strikeout rate. The problems have been with his control (11.7% walk rate) and his inability to keep the ball in the yard so far (seven homers allowed). In his most recent start against the division-rival Atlanta Braves on Friday, the former fifth-rounder in 2021 out of the University of Florida gave up three earned runs on two home runs while walking four and striking out seven in four innings for his first loss of the season. Scott is still working his way into form after missing the entire 2025 season, so fantasy managers must be patient. But so far, Scott has shown more positive than negative and is worth a look on the waiver wire in deeper leagues for pitching depth. He's currently rostered in just 14% of Yahoo leagues, and he's lined up for a plus matchup this week versus the Kansas City Royals. -
Daemon Hunt Agrees to One-Year Deal With Wild
Minnesota Wild defenseman Daemon Hunt has signed a one-year, $900,000 contract with the club. The 24-year-old was a restricted free agent after appearing in a career-high 32 games last season. Hunt finished the campaign with six assists, 19 SOG, 43 blocks, and 21 hits. He will fill a depth role on the blue line and is unlikely to see regular action in 2026-27. Quinn Hughes and Brock Faber will be the main men on defense for Minnesota, though Hughes has not yet signed a contract extension with the franchise. -
David Gustafsson Inks One-Year Contract With Penguins
Pittsburgh Penguins center David Gustafsson signed a one-year, $850,000 contract with the team on Sunday. He became a restricted free agent on July 1, a few days after the Penguins acquired him from the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for defenseman Jack St. Ivany. Gustafsson will hope to make an NHL comeback with the Penguins. He has played in 149 career NHL games but was limited to AHL action last season. With the Manitoba Moose, Gustafsson recorded 32 points (10 goals, 22 assists) in 48 outings. He added four points (one goal, three assists) in seven games during the Calder Cup Playoffs. -
Arturs Silovs Re-Ups With Penguins for One Year
Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Arturs Silovs has signed a new one-year contract with the team. As a restricted free agent, he landed a deal worth $2.8 million. Silovs had his first season with the Penguins in 2025-26, posting a 19-12-8 record across 38 regular-season starts. He gave up 3.07 goals with a .887 save percentage. With Stuart Skinner now in Winnipeg, Silovs could be Pittsburgh's No. 1 next season. He already finished the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs as a starter, impressing with his steady play. Silovs registered a 2-1 record, a 1.52 goals-against average, and a .939 save percentage during the postseason. -
Lachlan Olbrich Impresses in Warriors Rout of the Spurs
Free-agent forward/center Lachlan Olbrich is making the most of his Warriors audition, posting 13 points on six of eight shooting with four rebounds and four assists in Golden State's 98-69 California Classic rout of the Spurs. The all-around line is the story. Olbrich is a skilled, high-feel passing big, rare for the position, who capped his Bulls rookie year with a triple-double against Dallas and put up 17.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in a short G League stint. A front-office change in Chicago pushed him out, and Golden State scooped him up, where he's now competing with lottery pick Yaxel Lendeborg for frontcourt minutes. That playmaking feel is what makes him worth watching more than most audition bigs. But he needs an NBA job first; the fantasy conversation only starts if he wins one in a crowded Warriors frontcourt. -
Can James Cook III Crack the Top Five in 2026?
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III tied for the league lead with 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024, and while those calling for regression ahead of the 2025 season were technically right, Cook was able to pair his 12 touchdown runs with 1,621 yards on the ground and the first rushing crown of his career. Cook has finished as the RB8 and RB6 in the past two seasons, and with Buffalo's offense remaining largely intact for 2026, there is no reason to expect any significant falloff. The largest change comes at the top, where Joe Brady will take over as head coach, though his previous promotion to offensive coordinator coincided with Cook's breakout, and no team has scored more offensive touchdowns across his two full seasons as playcaller. While the offseason trade for veteran receiver DJ Moore could allow for perennial MVP-contender Josh Allen to again throw for more than 4,000 yards, something he has not done in either of Cook's RB1 seasons, a more balanced offense could also lead to more scoring opportunities on the ground. Despite Allen scoring rushing touchdowns at a historic rate in recent years, Cook has still been one of the league's most active backs from within the five-yard line over the past two seasons, and he is RotoBaller's RB5 for 2026. -
Ducks Re-Sign Pavel Mintyukov on Five-Year, $38 Million Contract
Anaheim Ducks defenseman Pavel Mintyukov signed a five-year, $36 million contract on Sunday. He secured a lucrative deal as a restricted free agent just days after Ducks center Leo Carlsson signed an offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers. Mintyukov played a career-high 73 games last season, recording 22 points (eight goals, 14 assists), 79 SOG, and 112 blocks. He must offer significantly more going forward to live up to his new contract. Since he won't turn 23 until November, Mintyukov still has plenty of time to develop as a player. -
AK Okereke Lands a Two-Way Deal With the Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers have made official their two-way signing of undrafted forward AK Okereke, Ryan Ward of Lakers Nation reports, filling the last of their three two-way slots. Okereke is a 6-7 floor-spacer who spent his final college season as a graduate transfer at Vanderbilt, averaging 9.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists while shooting 40.0 percent from three. The stroke is real, but the fantasy path isn't. Okereke is an undrafted rookie on a two-way contract, which caps his active games, and he's buried on a win-now roster built around Luka Doncic. Expect most of his season to come with the South Bay Lakers. -
Is Tyreek Hill Worthy of a Late-Round Stash in 2026 Drafts?
Still eyeing a return for 2026, free agent wide receiver Tyreek Hill (knee) continues to work his way back from the gruesome knee injury that ended his 2025 season after only four games. In a clip he posted to his YouTube channel in late June, he appears to receive positive news from a doctor who is impressed by his recovery. As rumors continue to swirl about potential 2026 landing spots for the five-time All-Pro, teams are set to reconvene for training camps at the end of the month, where a single injury could create a need for his services. While there are no guarantees that he will ever take another NFL snap, and even fewer assurances that he can return to pre-injury form, Hill has been one of the most explosive players to ever play the game, with his 28 career touchdowns of at least 50 yards ranking as the fourth most in NFL history. An afterthought in most 2026 drafts, Hill is a player who can and should be scooped up in the final rounds of any leagues with the use of injured reserve slots, and even without, the 11th-year receiver is worthy of an end-of-bench early-season stash, allowing fantasy managers extra time to make a decision before bye weeks and injuries arrive. -
Mavrik Bourque Lands Six-Year, $33 Million Contract From Predators
Nashville Predators forward Mavrik Bourque has signed a six-year, $33 million contract. The 24-year-old was a restricted free agent after completing his entry-level contract with the Dallas Stars. Nashville acquired Bourque from Dallas on July 1. Bourque had a fine year in 2025-26, producing 20 goals and 21 assists in 82 contests. He could have a larger role on his new squad, which would help Bourque make a bigger impact in fantasy hockey. His addition to the team is part of a retooling plan under new general manager Chris MacFarland. -
Yaxel Lendeborg Keeps Showing Multi-Category Summer League Appeal
Golden State Warriors Gold forward Yaxel Lendeborg posted 11 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and one steal across 24 minutes in Sunday's 98-69 California Classic win over the San Antonio Spurs. The No. 11 overall pick followed up Friday's 19-point Summer League debut with another useful all-around line, though he was less efficient at 4-for-11 from the field. Lendeborg's fantasy appeal comes from the category mix, as he can rebound, pass, block shots, and stretch the floor. His regular-season value will depend on how quickly Golden State trusts him with rotation minutes. -
Is Kendre Miller Already at the End of His Fantasy Career?
New Orleans Saints running back Kendre Miller was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. At the time, Alvin Kamara had seen his efficiency drop as he flirted with 300 opportunities in each of the previous three seasons, and the prevailing belief was that Miller could help to keep him fresh before potentially assuming the starting role himself. However, injuries have limited the fourth-year back to appearances in only 21 of a possible 51 games, and when he has seen the field, he has not looked the part of an NFL starter, averaging fewer than four yards per attempt on his 127 career carries. With New Orleans committing $28 million in guarantees to free agent Travis Etienne Jr., and Kamara still on the team along with Devin Neal and Audric Estime, Miller could be viewed as a long shot to even make the Saints' 53-man roster. Ranked outside of RotoBaller's top 300 players for 2026, Miller is not a player that should factor into draft plans in any redraft leagues, and his dynasty value has sunk to a place that makes him an easy drop candidate. -
Emanuel Sharp Scores 18 Points in Kings California Classic Win
Sacramento Kings guard Emanuel Sharp let it fly in the California Classic, scoring 18 points but needing 12 three-point attempts to get there, while adding seven rebounds, three assists, and two steals in the Kings' 91-85 win over Warriors Blue. The cold shooting is easy to forgive. Sharp is a genuine sharpshooter, a First-Team All-Big 12 pick who drilled 37.2 percent from deep on high volume at Houston and profiles as the 3-and-D floor spacer Sacramento needed after finishing last in threes made. Notably, he landed a standard three-year deal rather than the two-way most late-second-rounders get. Still, the fantasy path is narrow and role-gated: threes and steals if he wins the floor-spacer minutes behind Zach LaVine and Malik Monk, little if he's shuttling to the G League. -
Jerry Jeudy Falling Off Draft Boards in Shallower 2026 Leagues
While playing in all 17 games in 2025, Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy saw his receiving yards cut by more than half from his previous season, a 90-catch, 1,229-yard campaign that earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. His first season with the team saw him hyper-targeted to end the year by a combination of Jameis Winston, Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and Bailey Zappe, earning double-digit opportunities in six of the final nine weeks. While the team's quarterback rotation continued into 2025, the players changed, and with Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders all starting games, Jeudy only topped 10 targets twice all season, and an inability to form a connection with any of his signal callers led to one of the lowest reception percentages in the league. Heading into 2026, the Browns' quarterback situation is as unsettled as ever, with Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson projected to battle throughout training camp for the starting job in new head coach Todd Monken's offense, and with the team spending two top 40 picks on the receiver position, Jeudy could face the most significant target competition since being traded from Denver. With all these factors at play, expectations are low heading into the 2026 season, and Jeudy is RotoBaller's WR64. -
Nick Boyd Hands Out 10 Assists in Warriors Blue Loss
Golden State Warriors Blue guard Nick Boyd recorded 11 points, 10 assists, seven rebounds, and one steal across 27 minutes in Sunday's 91-85 California Classic Summer League loss to the Sacramento Kings. Boyd was one of the few bright spots as Golden State let a 10-point halftime lead slip away. The undrafted Wisconsin product is on an Exhibit 10 deal, so his path to regular-season fantasy value remains narrow. Still, back-to-back useful Summer League showings and a double-digit assist game give him a case to keep getting extended on-ball reps. -
Adou Thiero Stuffs the Box Score in Sunday's California Classic Victory
Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero delivered a strong all-around performance Sunday in the California Classic Summer League. He finished with 13 points, three rebounds, three steals, and two assists across 28 minutes during a 93-91 double-overtime win over the Miami Heat. The second-year forward made an impact with his activity on both ends, but his shooting remains a concern after he went 3-for-9 from the field, 0-for-2 from three-point range, and 4-for-7 at the line. Thiero's defense and downhill scoring are useful, but he needs a more reliable jumper to carve out steady fantasy value on a veteran-heavy Lakers roster. -
How Will Patrick Mahomes Bounce Back From Significant Injury?
Beginning with one of the most dominant fantasy seasons ever in his first year as a starter, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes went on a five-year run that saw him finish as the QB4 or better four different times with bookending QB1 finishes. Since then, some of his most dangerous weapons have either moved on or slowed with age, and major philosophical changes in Kansas City have led to a statistical decline and the three worst fantasy seasons of his career. After leading one of the league's most aggressive offenses in his early seasons, Mahomes has seen his air yards drop from 8.6 yards per attempt to only 6.9 over his past three seasons. The more conservative approach has not necessarily led to more efficiency, as his touchdown-to-interception ratio also dropped by nearly half over that span. A saving grace for fantasy has been an increased scramble rate, which saw Mahomes rush for career highs of 422 yards and five touchdowns in 2025 despite playing in only 14 games before his season was ended by a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee. How much of his mobility returns when he gets back on the field could be the most crucial element in determining his fantasy value in 2026, as his pass catchers remain largely unchanged from previous seasons. Expected to return to 11-on-11 work as early as training camp, Mahomes' movement will be watched closely, but for now he is RotoBaller's QB13 for 2026. -
Brandon Boston Jr. Scores 18 Points in Bucks Summer League Loss
Milwaukee Bucks guard/forward Brandon Boston Jr. led the team in scoring for the second straight game Sunday, finishing with 18 points, three rebounds, one assist, and one steal across 28 minutes in an 89-69 California Classic loss to Brooklyn. Boston also paced Milwaukee with 17 points in Saturday's win over Warriors Blue, so he is making the most of an early audition. The fantasy angle is still thin until he earns a regular-season roster spot, but his shot creation and minutes load are worth tracking in Las Vegas. -
Cameron Carr Impresses with 26-Point Outing
Los Angeles Lakers guard Cameron Carr came ready to play during Sunday's Summer League matchup against the Miami Heat. Carr was all over the place as he finished with 26 points, eight rebounds, and connected on four three-pointers during the overtime victory. The Lakers selected Carr in the first-round out of Baylor this year. The 21-year-old has looked impressive early in camp, but there's still a lot of time between now and the beginning of the regular season. Clearly, the Lakers believe in Carr, which is why they selected him in the first round. He might struggle to get consistent minutes right away, but he could force his way into the conversation if he keeps playing like this. -
Ryan Conwell Notches 16 Points in Loss
Miami Heat guard Ryan Conwell is getting a fair shot to prove himself during the Summer League. During his Summer League debut, Conwell knocked down only 4-of-12 shots from the floor. He was hopeful for better results on Sunday, but he didn't have much more success. He finished with 16 points (6-of-18 FGs), seven rebounds, and three assists in the double-overtime loss. The 16-point outing is nice, but his overall effectiveness has not been great. The Heat selected Conwell with a second-round pick during this year's draft. This team is in a win-now mode after trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Conwell will need to clean it up if he wants to crack this rotation. -
Should Dynasty Managers Be Looking to Buy Low on Matthew Golden?
After being selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Green Bay Packers wide receiver Matthew Golden had a rookie season to forget. Across 14 games (five starts), the 22-year-old recorded 29 catches for 361 yards and zero touchdowns on 44 targets. Golden should have a more prominent role in the Packers' offense in his second season, as the team moved on from wide receivers Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks over the offseason. However, Golden may still be behind wide receivers Christian Watson and Jayden Reed, as well as tight end Tucker Kraft, on the team's target pecking order. Green Bay has been a difficult place for wide receivers to post high-end fantasy production in recent seasons, as the team has frequently opted for an equal-opportunity passing offense and a run-heavy approach overall under current head coach and play-caller Matt LaFleur. Even with a discount in his value baked in, dynasty managers may want to avoid Golden ahead of 2026. -
Lakers Could Target Jonas Valanciunas
The Los Angeles Lakers are in the market for a backup center after trading Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards. The Lakers are reportedly interested Kevon Looney or Jonas Valanciunas. They've secured their starting center spot after making a trade for center Walker Kessler. Between the two, Valanciunas is the better option because he's a viable option on both sides of the ball. Valanciunas is still under contract with the Denver Nuggets, but they've reportedly made him available in trade talks. During his first year in Denver, Valanciunas averaged 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in 13.4 minutes per game in 65 contests. His value would likely increase elsewhere where he's not stuck behind Nikola Jokic. It remains to be seen if the Nuggets are truly interested in moving the big man, but the Lakers will need to make a move for another center at some point. -
Ace Bailey Dealing with Back Spasms
Utah Jazz forward Ace Bailey (back) was forced to make an early exit from Saturday's Summer League contest against the Atlanta Hawks. Bailey exited the contest after 20 minutes due to back spasms. It was an exhibition contest, so the Jazz elected to hold out Bailey for the rest of the game. He finished with 10 points, six rebounds, and a steal during his 20 minutes of action. The young forward is considered day-to-day, but he should be fine going forward. He's expected to remain a significant part of the rotation after averaging 13.8 points across 27.6 minutes per game in 72 contests with the Jazz last season. -
Jalen Coker Carries Sleeper Appeal for Redraft Leagues Entering 2026
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker missed the first six games of the 2025 season due to a quad injury. The 24-year-old posted modest numbers upon his return, recording 33 receptions for 394 yards and three touchdowns on 43 targets across 11 games. Still, Carolina saw enough from Coker to sign him to a three-year contract extension over the offseason, and he enters 2026 as the projected WR2 for the Panthers. Coker has missed 12 games across his first two NFL seasons, so injury concerns are unquestionably present in his profile. Still, the young wideout could be in line for a breakout season if he can finally put together a fully healthy campaign. As the WR56 by current average draft position in redraft leagues, Coker may be a sneaky sleeper for fantasy managers to target ahead of 2026. -
Nuggets Plan to Match Offer Sheet on Peyton Watson
The Denver Nuggets are reportedly committed to matching any offer sheets that forward Peyton Watson receives in free agency. Watson is currently a restricted free agent who is rumored to be looking for a deal that is over $20 million per season. The Nuggets will match any offer that Watson gets, but they are also open to sign-and-trade scenarios. Watson is coming off a career-year with the Nuggets and is hopeful to cash in during free agency. This past season, Watson averaged a career-high 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists across 29.6 minutes per game in 54 contests. The 23-year-old should be able to lock up a long-term deal after his performance this past season. -
Has Jaylen Waddle's Redraft Stock Outpaced His True Value?
After spending the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle is entering his first year with the Denver Broncos in 2026. Denver sent significant draft capital to Miami to acquire Waddle, who now projects as the team's WR1. The move from Miami to Denver should provide Waddle with a significantly improved offensive environment. However, the Broncos have several wide receivers who are capable of earning targets, including Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin, and Pat Bryant. Waddle spent most of 2025 as the clear WR1 in Miami, but he still finished the year as the WR29 in per-game PPR scoring. As the 23rd wide receiver off the board by average draft position in redraft leagues, Waddle may currently be slightly overvalued. -
Dynasty Managers May Have a Buy-Low Window on Daniel Jones
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) is currently working his way back from the torn Achilles that ended his 2025 campaign in Week 14. While Jones has not yet been fully cleared, he still appears to be tracking towards being ready to go for Week 1 of the 2026 season. Jones was having arguably his best NFL season before the injury in 2025, completing 68% of his pass attempts for 3,101 yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions across 13 games. The 29-year-old also rushed for 164 yards and five scores on 45 attempts. Jones may be less aggressive as a rusher in his first year back from injury, which could limit his fantasy upside for 2026. Still, the veteran quarterback appears to have found a home in Indianapolis and was the QB12 in per-game fantasy scoring before getting hurt last season. For rebuilding dynasty managers, buying low on Jones ahead of 2026 could pay dividends. -
Is Quinshon Judkins Undervalued by Current Redraft ADP?
A second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (ankle) recorded 998 scrimmage yards and seven touchdowns on 256 touches across 14 games as a rookie. The 22-year-old's season came to an unfortunate end in Week 16 when he suffered a dislocated right ankle and a fractured fibula. Still, Judkins is expected to be ready to go for the start of 2026 and profiles as Cleveland's early-down and short-yardage workhorse. Judkins struggled to be efficient in his first NFL season, averaging 3.6 yards per carry. However, the Browns overhauled their offensive line this offseason and should create a healthier offensive environment for Judkins in 2026. Judkins' workload projection gives him a safe production floor, and his current redraft ADP of RB21 may undervalue his upside. -
Cam Skattebo Drawing High Praise From New Head Coach
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh described running back Cam Skattebo (ankle) as a "top-tier back," per Jordan Raanan of ESPN. A fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Skattebo collected 617 scrimmage yards and seven touchdowns on 125 touches across eight games as a rookie before suffering a season-ending ankle injury. Despite the injury, the 24-year-old is expected to be fully healthy and ready to go for the start of 2026. The Giants have solid depth at the running back position in the form of Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary. However, it appears as though Harbaugh and the rest of the new coaching staff in New York view Skattebo as the team's lead back. RotoBaller currently ranks Skattebo as the 19th-best running back for redraft leagues heading into 2026. -
Can Bucky Irving Return to his Rookie-Season Form?
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving has become one of the most divisive players in 2026 drafts. After a breakout rookie season in 2024 saw him rack up almost 1,600 yards on his way to an RB14 finish, foot and shoulder injuries, as well as reported off-field struggles, limited him to only 10 games in 2025. Returning to action in Week 13 after an eight-week absence, Irving looked like a shell of himself, unable to top four yards per carry in any of his final six games. On the season, his 3.4-yard-per-carry average was down a full two yards from his rookie season, and while he was able to provide 6.1 half-PPR points per game strictly through the passing game, more than 67% of that production came in the first four weeks of the season. Following offseason shoulder surgery, the bull case for Irving is that he can return to the efficiency of his rookie season and the start of 2025, when he was the RB10 through the first four weeks. His detractors will point to the two-year, $14 million deal given to Kenneth Gainwell as evidence that Irving's fantasy-friendly usage in the passing game is set to take a meaningful hit. Those conflicting opinions have him coming off the board around RB24 by current ADP, providing his believers the opportunity to snag him at a discount in hopes of what could be a league-winning bounceback season. -
Jake Ferguson on the Fringe of Fantasy Relevance in 2026
Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson finished as the fantasy TE8 in 2025, but his season truly was a tale of two halves. With five-time Pro Bowl receiver CeeDee Lamb missing time early in the year, Ferguson began his fourth season at a break-neck pace, finishing as the TE5 or better in each game from Weeks 2 through 5, and his 51 catches and six touchdowns had him sitting as the TE1 through the first seven weeks of the season. From that point on, with Lamb back to full health and first-year Cowboy George Pickens proving to be a driving force of Dallas' passing offense, Ferguson caught only two more touchdowns and was barely usable for fantasy, averaging 5.4 half-PPR points over his final 10 games and ranking as the TE22 over that stretch. With Lamb and Pickens back for another season together and capable of fully boxing Ferguson out of the offense, the 27-year-old tight end comes in right on the fringe of fantasy relevance as RotoBaller's TE13. Though clearly capable of stepping into a larger role and delivering week-winning performances should either receiver succumb to injury, Ferguson projects best as a solid second tight end in deeper leagues and is an obvious player to target in best ball drafts. -
Mike Gesicki's 2026 Value Again Tied to the Health of Those Around Him
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki is coming off a down year in which a pectoral injury limited him to only 13 games and 28 receptions, the lowest totals since his rookie season. Returning for the final seven games following a five-week stint on the Reserve/Injured list, he was notably more effective to close the year, playing on a 17-game pace of 49 receptions for 597 yards, but in finding the end zone only twice, Gesicki was still just the TE14 in that span. Following an early-career stretch with the Dolphins in which he finished as a low-end TE1 in three straight seasons, he has not returned to the top 12 across his last four campaigns with Miami, New England, and Cincinnati, only once cracking the top 22, and his most productive stretches with the Bengals have come as an injury fill-in for either Ja'Marr Chase or Tee Higgins. With the offense operating at full health, Gesicki's involvement has been sporadic, with head coach and playcaller Zac Taylor leaning heavily into 11-personnel usage. Gesicki could again see fantasy managers race to the waiver wires should either Chase or Higgins miss time in the coming year, but at RotoBaller's TE28, he is unlikely to factor into 2026 drafts. -
Jay Huff Blocks Four Shots in USA's Qualifier Win
Indiana Pacers center Jay Huff finished with 12 points, four rebounds, and four blocks as USA Basketball edged the Dominican Republic 82-81 in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers. The 7-foot-1 big man is coming off a useful season in Indiana, where he averaged 9.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while giving the Pacers a stretch-center element. The blocks are still the fantasy hook, but his regular-season value depends on minutes. With Ivica Zubac ahead of him and Micah Potter also in the frontcourt mix, Huff profiles more as a specialist than a locked-in fantasy option. -
Kirk Cousins Unlikely to Factor into the Majority of 2026 Drafts
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins has made a 15-year career out of rising to the situation around him. Rarely has he shown an ability to truly elevate an offense, but with the right pieces around him, he's fully capable of managing the game and providing steady production that has frequently translated to fantasy success. With a deep group of pass-catchers in Washington's pass-heavy offense, he was able to turn in multiple top-six fantasy seasons, and while throwing to Justin Jefferson in Minnesota, he rarely fell outside the QB1 range. With the Achilles injury he suffered in 2023 further limiting what was never the most dynamic physical skill set, Cousins' reliance on a clean pocket and early separation from his receivers has only grown more apparent in recent years. Unfortunately, as he attempts to hold off first overall pick Fernando Mendoza for as long as possible in what could be his final starting job with the Raiders, the offense in Vegas features few pieces to get excited about outside of All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers and 2025 first-round pick Ashton Jeanty. Cousins is well-positioned in a Klint Kubiak offense that just saw journeyman Sam Darnold finish as the QB13 a season ago, but without a weapon like Offensive Player of the Year Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the outside, and with the new face of the franchise already breathing down his neck, the soon-to-be 38-year-old does not project as a major fantasy contributor in 2026 and is RotoBaller's QB33. -
Jonathan Mogbo Blocks Five Shots in Kings Summer League Win
Sacramento Kings forward Jonathan Mogbo finished with six points, seven rebounds, two steals, and five blocks across 32 minutes in Saturday's 79-76 California Classic Summer League win over the Brooklyn Nets. Mogbo shot 3-for-5 from the field and made his biggest impact defensively, giving Sacramento a strong first look after he joined the team on a two-way deal. The 24-year-old averaged just 1.5 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.6 assists with Toronto last season, so this does not create redraft buzz yet. Still, the blocks and steals are the fantasy hook if he can earn real NBA minutes. -
Cody Williams Posts 17 Points in Jazz Summer League Victory
Utah Jazz forward Cody Williams recorded 17 points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal, and two blocks across 34 minutes in Saturday's 103-102 Salt Lake City Summer League overtime win over the Atlanta Hawks. Williams shot 8-for-13 from the field and hit his only three-point attempt, giving Utah a strong two-way line next to Darryn Peterson's scoring outburst. The 21-year-old averaged 8.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season, so the defensive stats and efficiency stand out most. His fantasy value still depends on earning a steadier regular-season role. -
Malachi Fields Part of a Crowded Giants Depth Chart
The New York Giants' selection of wide receiver Malachi Fields in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft was sandwiched between the signings of five different veteran wideouts, all of whom received one-year deals in free agency. At 6'4" and 222 pounds, Fields can stand out as a big-bodied outside target for second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart, and his size and willingness as a blocker should endear him to new head coach John Harbaugh, who ran the league's run-heaviest offense in his final season with the Ravens. However, a Day 2 pick more on the strength of his traits than his production, he could take time to develop into a consistent NFL receiver, and the Giants are now well-positioned to spread the ball around, at least until 2024 first-round pick Malik Nabers returns to full health and takes control of the team's target share. As the only Giants receiver other than Nabers whose contract extends beyond the 2027 season, Fields is a worthwhile dynasty stash, but with enough depth in the here and now to require little more than a supporting role from the rookie, RotoBaller's WR95 does not project as a major fantasy contributor in 2026. -
Egor Demin Scores 23 Points in California Classic Loss
Brooklyn Nets guard Egor Demin finished with 23 points, seven rebounds, and one assist in Saturday's 79-76 California Classic Summer League loss to the Sacramento Kings. Demin shot 8-for-15 from the field, though the 2-for-8 mark from three kept the line from being cleaner. The 20-year-old averaged 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists as a rookie while shooting 38.5 percent from deep, so this was a strong restart after his season ended early. His fantasy value still hinges on usage, efficiency, and how much on-ball work Brooklyn gives him. -
Jaden Bradley Lands Two-Way Deal With Raptors
Toronto Raptors guard Jaden Bradley agreed to a two-way deal, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Bradley was the No. 50 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft after winning Big 12 Player of the Year at Arizona, where he averaged 13.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.4 steals while shooting 39.4 percent from three. The 22-year-old has a useful guard profile built on decision-making, defense, and spot-up shooting, but the two-way structure points to a developmental role. With Immanuel Quickley ahead of him, Bradley needs injuries or a roster opening to gain fantasy traction. -
Bennett Stirtz Posts Balanced Line in First Thunder Summer League Game
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Bennett Stirtz finished with 10 points, three rebounds, four assists, and two threes in his Salt Lake City Summer League debut, a 111-74 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. The No. 16 pick did not have a flashy scoring night, but the mix of shooting and playmaking fits his Iowa profile after he averaged 19.8 points, 4.4 assists, and 1.4 steals as a senior. Stirtz's fantasy value is more developmental than immediate, with Oklahoma City's guard rotation leaving him a narrow path to regular-season minutes. -
Aday Mara Fills Box Score in Thunder Summer-League Debut
Oklahoma City Thunder center Aday Mara finished with 10 points, three rebounds, four assists, and two blocks in a 111-74 Salt Lake City Summer League loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. The No. 12 pick did not have a huge scoring night, but the passing and rim protection were encouraging signs from the 7-foot-3 rookie. Mara averaged 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks at Michigan, so the defensive stats fit the profile. His fantasy value is more long-term than immediate, with Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jaylin Williams, and Thomas Sorber crowding Oklahoma City's frontcourt. -
Kingston Flemings Nearly has Double-Double in Hawks Summer-League Debut
Atlanta Hawks guard Kingston Flemings finished with 14 points, nine assists, four steals, and one turnover in a 103-102 overtime loss to the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City Summer League action. The No. 8 pick struggled early as a scorer, but he settled in as a passer and defender, giving Atlanta a useful first look at his lead-guard tools. Flemings averaged 16.1 points, 5.2 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals at Houston, so the playmaking and defensive activity track. His fantasy value will depend on how quickly he earns real on-ball minutes. -
Emil Andrae Agrees to Two-Year Contract With Maple Leafs
Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Emil Andrae inked a two-year, $3.1 million contract on Saturday. He was a restricted free agent. Toronto acquired Andrae from the Philadelphia Flyers two weeks ago. The 24-year-old Swedish blue-liner failed to establish himself in Philadelphia and saw action in only 61 regular-season contests in 2025-26. He finished the campaign with 13 points (two goals, 11 assists), 36 SOG, 58 blocks, and 68 hits. Andrae featured in only four of the team's 10 playoff games. Fantasy managers shouldn't expect a big improvement from Andrae, as he will likely be limited to third-pairing minutes. -
Hendrix Lapierre Signs Two-Year Deal With Penguins
Pittsburgh Penguins center Hendrix Lapierre signed a two-year, $2.6 million contract on Friday. The team acquired Lapierre from the Washington Capitals last week, and he became a restricted free agent on July 1. Lapierre has struggled to live up to his reputation as a first-round pick. In 158 career games, he has posted 47 points (13 goals, 34 assists). During his final year in D.C., the 24-year-old had 16 points (four goals, 12 assists) in 74 outings. Lapierre will get a fresh start with the Penguins, but he won't have fantasy value as a bottom-six forward. -
Leo Carlsson Receives Huge Offer Sheet From Flyers
Anaheim Ducks center Leo Carlsson received a five-year, $90 million offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers on Friday. The Ducks have until July 10 to match the offer. If they do not match it, the team will receive four first-round draft picks as compensation. Based on the contract's average annual value, Carlsson is set to become the NHL's highest-paid player. Edmonton's Leon Draisaitl currently holds the highest cap hit in the league at $14 million. Carlsson became a restricted free agent on July 1 after completing a three-year, entry-level contract. He took a big leap in 2025-26, posting a career-high 67 points (29 goals, 38 assists) in 70 games. In 201 career games, Carlsson has put up 141 points (61 goals, 80 assists). -
Jakub Dobes Earns Three-Year Extension From Canadiens
Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jakub Dobes has signed a three-year contract extension worth just over $16 million. The new deal will start with the 2027-28 season, giving Dobes a $5,357,575 cap hit. Last term, Dobes emerged as Montreal's No. 1, posting a 29-10-4 regular-season record. He allowed 2.78 goals with a .901 save percentage. The 25-year-old also performed admirably during the playoffs, helping his team reach the Eastern Conference Finals. With fewer than 60 career starts under his belt, Dobes is still likely to have some growing pains, but he has shown the potential to become a top-tier fantasy netminder. -
Jacob Middleton Heads to Calgary
The Calgary Flames have acquired defenseman Jacob Middleton from the Minnesota Wild. He was brought in along with a 2027 third-round pick, a 2028 fourth-round pick, and a 2029 second-round pick in exchange for forward Blake Coleman and defenseman Olli Maatta. Middleton has just finished the first season of a four-year, $17.4 million contract. After back-to-back 20-point campaigns, he finished with 16 points (two goals, 14 assists) in 75 games. His numbers across the board dropped due to reduced playing time. In Calgary, Middleton will have a chance to re-establish himself as a top-four piece. -
Wild Acquire Blake Coleman
Winger Blake Coleman was traded to the Minnesota Wild by the Calgary Flames on Thursday. Defenseman Olli Maatta also moved to Minnesota in exchange for defenseman Jake Middleton, a 2027 third-round pick, a 2028 fourth-round pick, and a 2029 second-round pick. The Flames will retain 50 percent of Coleman's $4.9 million annual salary. Coleman joined Calgary in 2021 after becoming a back-to-back Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He finished the 2025-26 campaign with 35 points (20 goals, 15 assists), 176 SOG, and 152 hits in 69 games. Minnesota has lost several forwards this offseason, and Coleman looks like a great pickup. He'll be in contention for a top-six role and should be fueled by the fact that he's on an expiring contract. -
Connor Bedard Injures Left Shoulder in Practice
Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard suffered an apparent shoulder injury during Thursday's practice. During a three-on-three drill, he lost his balance and crashed into the boards. As he stood up, Bedard clutched his right shoulder and eventually left the ice. Although the offseason has just begun and Bedard has plenty of time to recover before the next campaign, this is still concerning. The 20-year-old star dealt with a right shoulder injury in 2025-26, missing about a month. Now he may be forced to spend part of his offseason nursing an injury to his other shoulder. Before being knocked out of the lineup in December, Bedard was among the NHL's top scorers. He finished his third NHL campaign with a career-high 75 points (30 goals, 45 assists) in 69 games. Bedard became a restricted free agent on July 1. -
Zach Werenski Sticking With Blue Jackets
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski isn't going anywhere despite being heavily linked to a trade this offseason. "I want to win and I want to do that in Columbus," Werenski said in a statement. "As I've thought about things and discussed everything with my wife and family, we want to be in Columbus. It has been my home for the past 10 years and I have always been proud to be a Blue Jacket. We have the best fans in the NHL. I love my teammates and coaches and I'm looking forward to doing everything I can to get us back in the playoffs to compete for a Stanley Cup. Don and I are completely aligned on that and are excited about what's to come with our team." The 2026 Norris Trophy winner has two years left on his contract. Werenski has developed into a fantasy stud in Columbus and could become just the sixth defenseman in NHL history to record three consecutive 80-point campaigns next season. -
Dan Vladar Inks Five-Year Extension With Flyers
Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar has signed a five-year, $27.5 million contract extension. He has one more season remaining on a two-year, $6.7 million contract, but the team has decided to reward Vladar after a very good 2025-26 campaign. "Dan exceeded expectations last year," general manager Daniel Briere said. "Not just on the ice but also off the ice too. Tremendous leader, tremendous human being. The way he interacted in the room with the guys, the way he found a way to get them going and wanted more. … It's more than his play on the ice." Vladar made a career-high 51 starts, going 29-14-7. While he failed to record a shutout, the 28-year-old Czechia netminder allowed only 2.42 goals with a .906 save percentage. Vladar's .937 save percentage at five-on-five was tied for the league lead. He'll be a popular pick in fantasy drafts in the fall. -
Eetu Luostarinen Signs Eight-Year, $40 Million Extension With Panthers
Florida Panthers forward Eetu Luostarinen has received a major pay bump, signing an eight-year, $40 million contract extension with the team. He will finish a three-year, $9 million deal in 2026-27. The 27-year-old Finnish forward has skated six seasons with the Panthers, notching 33 points (11 goals, 22 assists) in 73 appearances last term. He also had 107 SOG and 121 hits. Luostarinen has been used throughout the lineup, fitting in seamlessly and making solid contributions at both ends of the ice, though his fantasy value isn't very high. -
Flyers Sign Tyson Foerster to Eight-Year Extension
Philadelphia Flyers left wing Tyson Foerster has committed his long-term future to the team, signing an eight-year, $56.8 million contract extension. His average salary will nearly double, as Foerster will complete a contract with a $3.75 million cap hit next season. Foerster is an exciting talent, but health issues limited him to 29 appearances in 2025-26. He tallied 13 goals and 17 points. In 10 playoff outings, Foerster managed just one goal and no assists. It was a tough year for the 24-year-old, but the Flyers expect Foerster to bounce back. General manager Daniel Brier noted that the team has "a great deal of confidence" in him. -
Mammoth Acquire Vincent Trocheck From Rangers
Center Vincent Trocheck will start his 14th NHL campaign with the Utah Mammoth. The veteran forward was acquired from the New York Rangers in exchange for defenseman Sean Durzi, forward prospect Cole Beaudoin, and a 2027 third-round pick. Trocheck has just completed the fourth season of a seven-year, $39.375 million contract. He tallied 53 points (16 goals, 37 assists) in 67 games, averaging 2.88 hits per game. At his new club, Trocheck hopes to record his sixth consecutive 50-point campaign, joining an exciting frontline that includes Clayton Keller and Dylan Guenther. -
Darnell Nurse Traded to Sharks
The San Jose Sharks have acquired defenseman Darnell Nurse from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin and unsigned defenseman Zachary Sharp. Nurse, who turned 31 in February, is midway through an eight-year, $74 million contract. He had a down year in 2025-26, finishing with 24 points (seven goals, 17 assists), 164 SOG, 166 blocks, and 137 hits in 82 appearances. The Sharks have been active in the market and are expected to improve next season, which should boost Nurse's prospects for a bounce-back year. -
Ivan Demidov Agrees to Eight-Year Extension With Canadiens
Montreal Canadiens right wing Ivan Demidov has inked an eight-year, $73 million contract extension. The new contract will kick in next offseason when Demidov's entry-level contract has finished. Demidov had an excellent rookie campaign in 2025-26, leading all first-year players with 62 points (19 goals, 43 assists) in 82 games. He added nine points (three goals, six assists) in 19 postseason appearances. While Demidov slowed down late in the season, he's an exciting talent and is bound to become a fantasy stalwart for years to come. -
Nico Hischier Signs Five-Year Extension With Devils
New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier signed a five-year, $58.5 million contract extension on Wednesday, Mike G. Morreale of NHL.com reports. He still has one season remaining on a seven-year, $50.7 million pact, but Hischier had no plans to move and has committed his future to New Jersey with another long-term deal. "I'm part of this team, I'm part of that organization and I want to be part of the solution and not run away," Hischier said. "That was very important for me." The Devils selected Hischier with the No. 1 pick in 2017 and named him captain in 2021. He has recorded 60-plus points in five consecutive seasons. The Swiss star turned only 27 in January and should continue offering high-level fantasy value for the length of his new contract. -
A.J. Greer Lands Four-Year, $17 Million Deal With Ducks
Anaheim Ducks left wing A.J. Greer has signed a four-year, $17 million contract with the team, ESPN's Greg Wyshynski reports. The 29-year-old is getting a significant salary boost after just completing a two-year deal with an $850,000 cap hit. Greer was a pending free agent when the Ducks acquired him from the Florida Panthers in exchange for defenseman Radko Gudas last week. In his final season with the Panthers, Greer enjoyed a career year with 32 points (17 goals, 15 assists) in 78 games. He led the team with 203 hits. In 2025-26, Greer benefited from Florida's injury problems and is unlikely to match his offensive production next season. But he will add grit and experience to the lineup as a bottom-six piece. -
Bobby Brink Re-Signs With Wild for One Year
Minnesota Wild right wing Bobby Brink will stay with the franchise on a one-year, $2.75 million contract. The 24-year-old joined his home-state team in March after a four-year run with the Philadelphia Flyers. Brink struggled to adjust to his new surroundings, posting only four points (two goals, two assists) in 13 games. He even spent time as a healthy scratch during the playoffs. However, the Wild are ready to give Brink another go, and he should be determined to prove his worth in 2026-27. Brink will hold a middle-six spot and could see increased power-play time following the departures of Mats Zuccarello and Marcus Johansson. -
Bowen Byram to Become NHL's Highest-Paid Defenseman
Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Bowen Byram has agreed to a historic six-year, $75 million contract extension. The deal will take effect in 2027-28 and carry a $12.5 million cap hit, the highest ever for a defenseman. Pittsburgh's Erik Karlsson currently has the largest cap hit among defensemen at $11.5 million. Chicago acquired Byram last week in a deal that included the No. 4 pick in the 2026 draft. His current cap hit stands at $6.25 million. In 2025-26, the 25-year-old blue-liner registered a career-high 42 points (11 goals, 31 assists) in 82 appearances. With his eye-popping new contract, Byram will face high expectations, and it will be interesting to see how well he handles the situation. -
Evan Rodrigues Traded to New Jersey
Forward Evan Rodrigues (finger) will skate with his fifth NHL team next season after the Florida Panthers traded him to the New Jersey Devils. He was part of a deal that saw Florida acquire goaltender Jacob Markstrom. The Panthers also picked up minor-league forward Angus Crookshank in exchange for Rodrigues and forwards Jesper Boqvist and Ben Steeves. In 2025-26, Rodrigues posted his fifth straight 30-point season, even after breaking a finger in late March. He tallied 11 goals and 20 assists in 69 outings. The 32-year-old will be part of the middle-six group in New Jersey and should see regular power-play time. -
Jacob Markstrom Returns to Florida
The Florida Panthers have acquired goaltender Jacob Markstrom from the New Jersey Devils. The Swedish shot-stopper rejoins the team that drafted him in 2008. In the transaction, the Devils also parted ways with minor-league forward Angus Crookshank in exchange for three forwards: Evan Rodrigues (finger), Jesper Boqvist, and Ben Steeves. Markstrom had a tough year in 2025-26, but he now finds himself in a good position to bounce back. He has strong career numbers, including a 2.73 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage. Meanwhile, Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to move on after being the No. 1 in Sunrise for seven seasons.
