WESTERN CONFERENCE

Two teams that were at the top of their game last season meet Saturday evening battling for a playoff spot in the Western Conference, as the Seattle Sounders prepare to play host to Sporting Kansas City. Home field has been key to the Sounders’ .500 record so far, as they are 4-2-1 at Lumen Field in 2022. They come into Saturday four points back of the Sounders and Whitecaps, and 14 back of LAFC. What: MLS SoccerWho: Seattle Sounders FC (6-6-2) vs. ETWhere: Lumen Field (Seattle, Wa.)

The Colorado Avalanche got a key player back with the return of Nazem Kadri for Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Watch the MLS on FuboTV (Try Now)The Galaxy came out of the gates on the right foot in their 2022 campaign, winning four of their first six matches. Their attack has been paced by star striker Chicharito, who is tied for 13th in the league with six goals. The Timbers limp into Saturday after a rough end to the month of May. What: MLS SoccerWho: L.A. Galaxy (7-5-2) vs. Portland Timbers (3-6-6)When: Saturday, June 18Time: 5:00 p.m. ETWhere: Dignity Health Sports Park (Carson, Calif.)Channel: ESPN, ESPN DeportesStream: FuboTV, Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the MLS standings and results here

The Colorado Avalanche didn't need to be fully healthy to sweep the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference final.

After two huge wins, the Colorado Avalanche look to take a stranglehold in the Western Conference Finals, while the Edmonton Oilers the home ice helps them get back into the series on Saturday night. Watch the NHL Playoffs on DirecTV StreamCOLORADO AVALANCE vs. EDMONTON OILERSGAME 3 (Avalanche lead 2-0)When: Saturday, June 4Time: 8 p.m. The Avs outshot the Oilers 40-24 in the contest, with backup goaltender Pavel Francouz pitching his second career playoff shutout. Nazem Kadri was a key catalyst in that second period for Colorado, assisting on all three goals in the frame. They gave Colorado seven power plays in the game, with Nathan MacKinnon’s 10th goal of the playoffs coming in the third.

Nazem Kadri had three assists in a 2:04 span in the second period, backup Pavel Francouz stopped 24 shots for his second career playoff shutout and the Colorado Avalanche beat the Edmonton Oilers 4-0 on Thursday night to take a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference finals.

If Tuesday night meant anything, the Western Conference Finals is certainly going to see no shortage of drama, as the Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche will run it back on Thursday in the Western Conference Finals. Watch the NHL Playoffs on DirecTV StreamEDMONTON OILERS vs. COLORADO AVALANCEGAME 2 (Avalanche lead 1-0)When: Thursday, June 2Time: 8 p.m. The Oilers and Avalanche combined for five goals in the opening 20 minutes., before Colorado opened up a 7-3 lead in the second period. Watch the NHL Playoffs on FuboTV (7-day free trial)The Avalanche played exactly how we expected them to in a series opener on home ice. The Avs are also looking for answers after Darcy Kuemper had to leave in the second period due to an apparent upper-body injury.

FLINT – The greatest season in Flint Firebirds history came to an end Wednesday night at Windsor’s WFCU Centre. The Windsor Spitfires beat the Firebirds 4-0 in Game 7 of the OHL Western Conference Finals to capture the Wayne Gretzky Trophy and earn a date in the championship series against the Hamilton Bulldogs. After scoring two goals in Tuesday’s 3-2 overtime victory in Game 6, Daniel D’Amico bagged a hat trick in the decisive game to lead Windsor. Matthew Maggio scored Windsor’s other goal. Windsor goaltender Xavier Medina stopped all 38 shots the Firebirds sent his way while counterpart Luke Cavallin, who was brilliant in Flint’s Game 6 loss, finished with 32 saves.

A former Detroit Red Wing delivered the biggest goal in the playoffs for the Colorado Avalanche on Friday. The Avalanche, seeking their first Cup since 2001, face the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference finals in a series that begins on Tuesday. The Red Wings drafted Helm in the fifth round in 2005 (132nd overall). He played 744 games in parts of 14 seasons with the Red Wings before signing a one-year, $1 million contract with the Avalanche last offseason. He delivered the overtime goal in Game 5 against the Chicago Blackhawks that sent the Red Wings to the 2009 Cup Final.

FLINT – The OHL Western Conference Finals has been reduced to a best-of-3 series. The Windsor Spitfires evened the series with the Flint Firebirds at two games apiece Friday after posting a 4-2 victory before a sellout crowd of 4,078 at the Dort Financial Center. The Spitfires scored all the goals they needed in the first period, taking a 3-0 lead before adding an insurance goal into an empty net with 16 seconds left in the third. Game 5 is Sunday in Windsor before the series returns to Flint Tuesday for Game 6. MORE:Firebirds fight back to win Game 3Flint Firebirds drubbed in Game 2 of Western FinalsFirebirds strike first in OHL Western Conference FinalsFirebirds say regular season meaningless in playoffsFirebirds-Spitfires playoff schedule

“I just can’t pick the Warriors because I hate their fans,” Barkley said earlier this week. Warriors fans threw shirts and liquids at Barkley while he was on the “NBA on TNT” set. Chuck, sit down man,” Ernie Johnson said. Chuck, sit down man!" Andrew Wiggins added 18 points and 10 rebounds, Draymond Green scored 17 points and Curry had 15 points and nine assists for Golden State.

Klay Thompson shimmied his way to 32 points and the Golden State Warriors advanced to their sixth NBA Finals in the past eight seasons by beating the Dallas Mavericks 120-110 in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals.

FLINT – Riley Piercey had just one of the 14 points Flint Firebirds players recorded Wednesday during Game 3 of the OHL Western Conference Finals against the Windsor Spitfires. Flint scored its first goal less than two minutes after the fight and added five more – all unanswered – for a 6-3 victory that gave the Firebirds a 2-1 lead in the best-of-7 series with Game 4 scheduled for Friday in Flint. “That’s part of hockey and I think that fight Piercey had definitely gave us momentum. The Firebirds killed all four Windsor power-play chances while Flint was 1-for-3 with a manpower advantage. MORE:Flint Firebirds drubbed in Game 2 of Western FinalsFirebirds strike first in OHL Western Conference FinalsFirebirds say regular season meaningless in playoffsFirebirds-Spitfires playoff schedule

The start of the second half of Game 4 of the Western Conference finals was delayed 16 minutes because of rain leaking through the roof at the American Airlines Center.

When the NBA playoffs take the TV court even the most popular shows find the competition tough.

FLINT – The Flint Firebirds are coming home dead even in their playoff series with the Windsor Spitfires. The Spitfires won Game 2 of the OHL’s Western Conference Finals 7-2 Monday night, evening the series at one game apiece before 3,860 at the WFCU Centre. Windsor outshot the Firebirds 45-39 and went 1-for-5 on the power play compared to Flint’s 0-for-4. Game 4 is Friday in Flint before the series returns to Windsor for Game 5 Sunday night. MORE:Firebirds strike first in OHL Western Conference FinalsFirebirds say regular season meaningless in playoffsFirebirds-Spitfires playoff scheduleFirebirds advance to Western Conference FinalsFirebirds on verge of making team history

The emergence of Jordan Poole has the Golden State Warriors one game away from the NBA Finals after defeating Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks 109-103 on Sunday.

Stephen Curry scored 31 points, Andrew Wiggins added 27 while posterizing Luka Doncic on a dunk and the Golden State Warriors beat the Dallas Mavericks 109-100 for a 3-0 lead in the Western Conference finals.

As the Western Conference Final moves to the Lone Star State, the Golden State Warriors have placed the Dallas Mavericks in a huge two-game hole with a pair of convincing wins earlier in the series. WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL(3) Golden State Warriors vs. (4) Dallas Mavericks (Warriors lead 2-0)Time: 9 p.m. ETWhere: American Airlines Center (Dallas, Texas)Channel: TNTStream: Sling, DirecTV StreamUnlike the opening game of the series, the Mavericks looked like the better team in the early going. Steph Curry shot over 50% from the floor in game two, once again leading the Warriors with 32 points. However, that was all Dallas had in the game, as Dallas’ depth is not quite as prevalent as Golden State’s.

The NBA has fined the Dallas Mavericks a third time in the playoffs because of violations of rules regarding their bench.

FLINT – So much for the way the Windsor Spitfires dominated the Flint Firebirds during the OHL regular season. The Spitfires won 7 of 8 games vs. Flint, outscored the Firebirds by a total of 20 goals and scored at least six goals six times. But the Firebirds answered with three straight goals – two by Bertuzzi, who has four in the playoffs, and one by James Mayotte (1) – to put Flint back in front 4-2. Windsor outshot the Firebirds 38-31 and finished 2-for-5 on the play to Flint’s 0-for-4. MORE:Firebirds say regular season meaningless in playoffsFirebirds-Spitfires playoff scheduleFirebirds advance to Western Conference FinalsFirebirds on verge of making team history

As the series between the best team in the Western Conference and one of their divisional rivals shifts venues on Saturday, the Colorado Avalanche and St. Louis Blues meet in key game three in the Gateway to the West. WESTERN CONFERENCECentral Division(1) Colorado Avalanche vs. (3) St. Louis Blues (Series tied 1-1)Despite being seemingly outmatched coming into the series, the Blues refuse to be pushed around by the Avalanche. St. Louis came out fast and furious in the opening period on Thursday, and were rewarded in the second period with goals for Jordan Kyrou and David Perron. However, Blues’ goaltender Jordan Binnington came up big when needed two, earning the win with a 30-save performance. Colorado is trying to play a tougher game to match St. Louis’ grit, but that has only allowed the Blues to come back home with the series even at one.

The NBA has two big media rights deals expiring after the 2024 season. The question is: Will the league strike agreements with streaming services?

A team looking to get back to the top of the basketball mountain made a statement in game one of the Western Conference Finals, and will look to take a sizable lead in the best-of-seven, as the Golden State Warriors take on the Dallas Mavericks in game two on Friday night. WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL(4) Dallas Mavericks vs. (3) Golden State Warriors (Warriors lead 1-0)Time: 9 p.m. It was certainly a team victory for the Warriors, as all but two players that hit the floor scored points in game one, with seven reaching double-digits. Watch the NBA Playoffs on FuboTV (7-day free trial)On the other side, Luka Doncic was isolated by the Warriors throughout the game. Check out the full NBA Playoffs bracket here

FLINT – Forget about the regular season. “The regular season is the regular season but now it’s the playoffs. Flint, which finished third in the Western Conference with a 42-21-1-4 record, beat the Soo Greyhounds. Were in the final four with them and we want this Western Conference title.”Windsor outscored the Firebirds 46-25 during their eight regular season meetings. MORE:Firebirds-Spitfires playoff scheduleFirebirds advance to Western Conference FinalsFirebirds on verge of making team history

The Golden State Warriors took Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals 112-87 against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night. NBA bettors will cash a $200 bonus if either team hits a three-pointer. Bet $10 on the Warriors and Mavs game on Friday night and win $200 if either team hits a three. Western Conference Finals: Warriors vs. Mavericks BetMGM bonusFor all new users that have not signed up at BetMGM Sportsbook, the time is now! How to claim your BetMGM bonus code for Warriors vs. MavsIt is extremely easy to jump in on the Warriors vs. Mavs bonus for Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals.

EASTERN CONFERENCEAtlantic Division(3) Tampa Bay Lightning vs. (1) Florida Panthers (Lightning lead 1-0)Time: 7 p.m. Despite Anthony Duclair scoring first for the Panthers, that is all Florida would get in game one. Watch the NHL Playoffs on FuboTV (7-day free trial)WESTERN CONFERENCECentral Division(3) St. Louis Blues vs. (1) Colorado Avalanche (Avalanche lead 1-0)Time: 9:30 p.m. ETWhere: Ball Arena (Denver, Colo.)Channel: TNTStream: Sling, DirecTV StreamThe Avs and Blues went at it in game one, well maybe the Avs went more at the Blues. The Blues showed that they can stay in games with the overpowering Avs, albeit if their goaltender plays out his mind.

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL(4) Dallas Mavericks vs. (3) Golden State Warriors (Game 1)Time: 9 p.m. After finishing third in the conference, the Warriors tore down the Denver Nuggets, isolating back-to-back league MVP Nikola Jokic, before defeating the No. Their appearance in the conference finals marks the sixth time in eight years Golden State has made it the NBA’s final four. During this past regular season, the Mavs actually had the Warriors number, winning three of the four meetings. Check out the full NBA Playoffs bracket here

FLINT – The Flint Firebirds will have a full week to prepare for Game 1 of the OHL’s Western Conference championship series. The Firebirds and Windsor Spitfires will square off at 7:05 p.m. Saturday, May 21 at the WFCU Centre. Game will be Monday May 23 in Windsor before the series moves to Flint for Game 3 May 25 at the Dort Financial Center. Flint, which had never won a playoff series before this year, advanced to the Western Conference Finals by beating the Soo Greyhounds 7-1 Saturday in Game 5 of their series. Here is a look at the Flint-Windsor schedule:Game 1, May 21 – at Windsor, 7:05 p.m.Game 2, May 23 – at Windsor, 7:05 p.m.Game 3, May 25 – at Flint, 7 p.m.Game 4, May 27 – at Flint, 7 p.m.x-Game 5, May 29 – at Windsor, 7:05 p.m.x-Game 6, May 31 – at Flint, 7 p.m.x-Game 7, June 1 – at Windsor, 7:05 p.m.x-if necessaryMORE:Firebirds advance to Western Conference Finals

The Memphis Grizzlies are willing to spend whatever necessary to keep its core together.

FLINT – For the first time in a dozen years, a Flint hockey team will be playing in a championship series. The Flint Firebirds advanced to the Ontario Hockey League’s Western Conference Finals Saturday by beating the Soo Greyhounds 7-1 before 3,342 in Game 5 at the Dort Financial Center. Zacharie Giroux had a hat trick to lead the Firebirds while goaltender Luke Cavallin stopped 27 of 28 shots. The last time a Flint team played for a championship was in 2010, when the Flint Generals lost to the Fort Wayne Komets in the International Hockey League finals. Flint took control when Giroux scored twice in the second period as the Firebirds erupted for four unanswered goals to take a 4-0 lead to the third period.

The league announced Thursday that it will now award MVP awards for both the Western Conference Finals and the Eastern Conference Finals. The trophies, revealed as part of the announcement, are named after Johnson (Western Conference) and Celtics legend Larry Bird (Eastern Conference). “I need to have a Larry Bird MVP trophy in my championship room to take it to the next level,” Johnson tweeted. “It’s an honor to share this MVP award platform with the great Larry Bird.”I need to have a Larry Bird MVP trophy in my championship room to take it to the next level! The 2022 conference finals are set to begin as soon as Sunday.

Thanks to some overtime magic from Brennan Othmann, the Flint Firebirds are one win away from reaching the Western Conference finals. Othman scored his fourth goal of the series 8:37 into overtime, giving the Firebirds a 3-2 win Thursday over Sault Ste. The teams return to Flint where the Firebirds hope to finish out the best-of-7 series in a 7 p.m. game Saturday. In the other bracket of the OHL Western Conference playoffs, Windsor also took a 3-1 lead in its semifinal series against Kitchener with a 6-3 win Thursday. Luke Cavallin earned the win in goal for Flint, stopping 39 of 41 saves and shutting the Greyounds out in the final 60 minutes of the game.

The Memphis Grizzlies say All-Star guard Ja Morant is doubtful for the remainder of the postseason after an MRI and further evaluation revealed a bone bruise in his injured right knee.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant is out for Game 5 with a bone bruise in his right knee.

Stephen Curry converted eight free throws over the final 45.7 seconds on the way to 32 points, leading the Golden State Warriors’ fourth-quarter comeback for a 101-98 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies and a 3-1 lead in the Western Conference semifinals.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant is out for Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Warriors with a right knee injury.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr tested positive for COVID-19 and will be replaced by associate head coach Mike Brown on the bench for Golden State in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Memphis Grizzlies.

FLINT – The Flint Firebirds are halfway to advancing to the Western Conference finals in the Ontario Hockey League playoffs. The Firebirds lead the best-of-7 series 2-0 with Game 3 set for Tuesday in Sault Ste. Game 4 is Thursday in the Soo and Game 5, if necessary, would be next Saturday in Flint. The Greyhounds outshot Flint 56-35. MORE:Firebirds strike first in series with Soo GreyhoundsFirebirds make history in first-round playoff seriesFirebirds hoping for long playoff runFirebirds force Game 7 vs. Owen SoundFirebirds even playoff series with Owen Sound

Las Vegas started the season on the right foot, hammering the Mercury on Friday night, 106-88, led by Dearica Hamby’s 24 points. Though the core is another year older, the Storm have the potential to be a favorite in the conference, and the entire WNBA. In their three regular season meetings, the Aces beat the Storm twice. What: WNBA BasketballWho: Seattle Storm (1-0) vs. Las Vegas Aces (1-0)When: Sunday, May 8Time: 10:00 p.m. ETWhere: Michelob ULTRA Arena (Las Vegas, Nev.)Channel: ESPN2Stream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the WNBA standings and results here

Grizzlies guard Ja Morant is unlikely to play in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against Golden State on Monday night after injuring his right knee on a play with Jordan Poole that the teams are debating from Memphis’ 142-112 defeat Saturday night.

WESTERN CONFERENCE(1) Phoenix Suns vs. (4) Dallas Mavericks (Suns lead 2-1)The work of Luka Doncic finally paid off on Friday night, as the Mavericks’ forward led his team to a key win on Friday night. Dallas opened up game three with a first quarter lead over the Suns, going up by seven at the end of the first half. Watch the NBA Playoffs on FuboTV (7-day free trial)EASTERN CONFERENCE(1) Miami Heat vs. (4) Philadelphia 76ers (Heat leads 2-1)Time: 8 p.m. Only two Heat players hit double-digits in the loss. To no one’s surprise, Jimmy Butler was the offensive catalyst for Miami, leading all players with 33 points.

FLINT – The Flint Firebirds scored the only two goals of the first period and added three more in the third period of 5-3 victory over the Soo Greyhounds in Game 1 of their best-of-7 Western Conference semifinal series at the Dort Financial Center. Coulson Pietre scored twice for the Firebirds and captain Brennan Othmann added a goal and three assists for Flint. Dmitry Kuzmin also had three assists for Flint, which will host Game 2 Sunday. Jack Thompson scored twice for Soo and Kalvyn Watson tallied once. Soo outshot the Firebirds 58-31 and Flint was 2-for-3 on the power play.

Follow Josh VanDyke on TwitterThe Muskegon Community College softball team poses for a photo. (Photo courtesy of Muskegon Community College Athletics). MUSKEGON – The Muskegon Community College softball team secured the Western Conference Championship on Monday with a doubleheader sweep of Jackson Community College. The Jayhawks edged past the Jets in Game 1 by a score of 4-3 and rolled to an 8-0 victory in Game 2 to clinch the conference championship. NOTEWORTHY: Muskegon Community College freshman utility player Kennadi Dykstra (Fruitport) was named the MCCAA Western Conference Softball Player of the Week on Tuesday.

(4) Dallas Mavericks vs. (5) Utah Jazz (Series tied 1-1)After the Jazz pulled out an important game one victory last Saturday, the Mavericks knew a split on home court was vital if they want to have a chance going into Salt Lake City. After a tight start in game two on Monday, the Jazz were able to take a lead heading into halftime. Watch the NBA Playoffs on FuboTV (7-day free trial)(3) Golden State Warriors vs. (6) Denver Nuggets (Warriors lead 2-0)Time: 10 p.m ETWhere: Ball Arena (Denver, Colo.)Channel: TNTStream: Sling, DirecTV StreamAs the series shifts to Colorado, the Nuggets finds themselves looking for answers against the Warriors. After winning by less than 20 points in game one, Golden State bettered their performance on Monday night in the series’ second game. Five Nuggets put up double-digits in the loss, including Nikola Jokic, who grabbed another double-double by scoring 26 points, and grabbing 11 rebounds.

On Monday, the First Round of the NBA Playoffs continues with a pair of Western Conference series, along with an Eastern Conference series that is highly anticipated. Philly jumped flew out of the gate to a big lead in the first quarter, and led by 18 heading into halftime. Watch the NBA Playoffs on FuboTV (7-day free trial)WESTERN CONFERENCE(5) Utah Jazz vs. (4) Dallas Mavericks (Jazz lead 1-0)The Jazz started the series on the right foot, despite being the presumed underdog coming into the series. Despite Dallas trying to comeback in the fourth, the Jazz held on to take the early series lead. (6) Denver Nuggets vs. (3) Golden State Warriors (Warriors lead 1-0)Time: 10:00 p.m.

Even though they have finally suffered defeat, that has not taken away from the impressive opening six matches for Los Angeles. They lead the Western Conference coming into the weekend (13), good for first in the West, and second in the entire MLS. The club that finished atop of the Western Conference at the end of the 2021 regular season has shown a different color so far this season. What: MLS SoccerWho: Los Angeles FC (4-1-1) vs. ETWhere: Banc of California Stadium (Los Angeles, Calif.)Channel: ESPN, ESPN DeportesStream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the MLS standings and results here

The second year of the NBA's play-in playoff tournament begins on Tuesday. With no clear-cut favorites, the title is up for grabs.

Watch the MLS on FuboTV (7-day free trial)L.A. comes into Sunday after having the week off, as this will be their first match in 15 days. Despite being the defending Western Conference champs, the Timbers have only been okay through their first five matches. Outside of their victory three weeks ago against Austin FC, Portland has failed to impress in the first month of the 2022 season. What: MLS SoccerWho: Portland Timbers (1-1-3) vs. L.A. Galaxy (2-2-0)When: Sunday, April 3Time: 4:30 p.m. ETWhere: Providence Park (Portland, Ore.)Channel: FOX Sports 1, FOX DeportesStream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the MLS standings and results here

Detroit ended the month of March on a high note, and went 6-11 over the month. Watch the Detroit Pistons on DirecTV StreamSaddiq Bey was a huge catalyst in the Pistons’ comeback win over the Sixers. The Thunder come into April Fool’s Day with a 22-54 record after going 3-12 last month. Check out more stories about the Detroit Pistons here on MLiveWhat: NBA BasketballWho: Detroit Pistons (21-56) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (22-54)When: Friday, April 1Time: 8:00 p.m. ETWhere: Paycom Center (Oklahoma City, Okla.)Channel: Bally Sports DetroitStream: DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

CJ McCollum received a 90-second standing ovation in his first visit to Portland since a February trade to New Orleans, then scored 25 points to lead the Pelicans over the Trail Blazers 117-107.

Coming down to the end of the month, the Avs have gone 7-4-2 so far in March. Watch the NHL on ESPN+Calgary has surged to the top of the Pacific Division after a so-so start to their 2021-22 campaign. The Flames’ 88 points are 10 back of the Avalanche, but are looking to end the month of March strong, as they are 9-4-1 so far this month. What: NHL HockeyWho: Colorado Avalanche (46-14-6) vs. Calgary Flames (40-17-8)When: Tuesday, March 29Time: 9:00 p.m. ETWhere: Scotiabank Saddledome (Calgary, Alberta)Stream: DirecTV StreamCheck out the NHL standings and results on NHL.com

On Monday, two of the top teams in the Western Conference do battle, with the Golden State Warriors trying to shrink the gap on the Memphis Grizzlies. The Grizzlies have been strong over the last few games, coming in on a three-game win streak, having won seven of their last eight games. The Grizzlies have won two of the first three encounters, including a 116-108 win at home in the last matchup back on Jan. 11. What: NBA BasketballWho: Golden State Warriors (48-26) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (51-23)When: Monday, March 28Time: 8:00 p.m. ETWhere: FedEx Forum (Memphis, Tenn.)Channel: NBA TVStream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

Watch the NBA on FuboTV (7-day free trial)At one point, the Nets were towards the top of the Eastern Conference. Brooklyn is 37-34 on the season, sitting eighth in the conference, which is the second Play-In spot. The Nets are 6.5 games ahead of the Washington Wizards, who are the 11th-place team in the East. What: NBA BasketballWho: Utah Jazz (45-26) vs. Brooklyn Nets (37-34)When: Monday, March 21Time: 7:30 p.m. ETWhere: Barclays Center (Brooklyn, N.Y.)Channel: NBA TVStream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

The former Flint Firedbird goaltender helped the Red Wings snap their six-game losing streak with a 1-0 win on Thursday night. Watch the Detroit Red Wings on DirecTV StreamThe lone goal in the contest came when Pius Suter netted his 12th goal of the season just before the halfway mark of the second period. Detroit gets their first crack at playing at the renovated Climate Pledge Arena, meeting the Kraken for the second time this season. The Red Wings prevailed in their matchup in Motown back on Thanksgiving Weekend, pulling out a 4-3 shootout victory. Check out more stories about the Detroit Red Wings here on MLiveWhat: NHL HockeyWho: Detroit Red Wings (25-29-7) vs. Seattle Kraken (18-38-6)When: Saturday, March 19Time: 10:00 p.m.

After losing consecutive games once again, the Detroit Pistons return to Little Caesars Arena on Sunday afternoon, looking to rebound against a Los Angeles Clippers team battling for playoff position in the Western Conference. In their fourth and final meeting of the season with the Boston Celtics on Friday, the Pistons had another solid start against Boston, leading by one at halftime. The Pistons meet the Clippers for the second time this season. Check out more stories about the Detroit Pistons here on MLiveWhat: NBA BasketballWho: Los Angeles Clippers (35-34) vs. Detroit Pistons (18-49)When: Sunday, March 13Time: 3:00 p.m. ETWhere: Little Caesars Arena (Detroit, Mich.)Channel: Bally Sports DetroitStream: DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

Wrapping up the second weekend of Major League Soccer action sees two clubs that are hoping to be one of the top teams in the Western Conference meet up, as Los Angeles FC gets set to host the Portland Timbers. The Timbers had a wild start to their season, when they took on the reigning Supporter’s Shield winners in the New England Revolution. Watch the MLS on FuboTV (7-day free trial)Los Angeles FC started 2022 on the right foot, actually the left foot of Carlos Vela. What: MLS SoccerWho: Los Angeles FC vs. Portland TimbersWhen: Sunday, March 6Time: 10:00 p.m. ETWhere: Banc of California Stadium (Los Angeles, Calif.)Channel: FOX Sports 1Stream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the MLS standings and results here

Former Detroit Red Wings goalie Dominik Hasek took to Twitter over the weekend, calling for the NHL to suspend contracts of all Russian players after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Detroit started to play better in the second, but trailed by 15 at halftime. Watch the Detroit Pistons on DirecTV StreamWith Cade Cunningham still out of the lineup, Jerami Grant tried to carry the load for the Pistons, leading the team with 20 points. The first time these two met down in Charlotte last month saw the Hornets dominate the Pistons, winning 140-111. Check out more stories about the Detroit Pistons here on MLiveWhat: NBA BasketballWho: Charlotte Hornets (28-28) vs. Detroit Pistons (12-43)When: Friday, February 11Time: 7:00 p.m. ETWhere: Little Caesars Arena (Detroit, Mich.)Channel: Bally Sports DetroitStream: DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

Former Chicago Blackhawks forwards Eddie Olczyk, Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp have agreed to help the team in its search for a new general manager.

Two teams towards the top of the Western Conference meet on Monday night in the heat of Arizona, as the league-leading Phoenix Suns look to keep playing like their namesake when they take on the Utah Jazz. Watch the NBA on FuboTV (Free trial)The Jazz have not been nearly as good as the Suns have been. This will be the first game of a home-and-home between the two teams, as the Jazz will be hosting the Suns in Salt Lake City on Wednesday. What: NBA BasketballWho: Utah Jazz (29-16) vs. Phoenix Suns (35-9)When: Monday, January 24Time: 9:00 p.m. ETWhere: Footprint Center (Phoenix, Ariz.)Channel: NBA TVStream: FuboTV (Free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

On Monday night, one of the top teams in the NBA’s Western Conference looks to find their winning ways that they had seen earlier on this season, as the Utah Jazz head to Cali for a clash with the Los Angeles Lakers. Prior to their recent slip-up, Los Angeles had won five-straight to help get them back into the playoff conversation. This of the first of three meetings between the two teams this season, with the next matchup coming in L.A. next month. What: NBA BasketballWho: Utah Jazz (28-14) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (21-21)When: Monday, January 17Time: 10:30 p.m. ETWhere: Crypto.com Arena (Los Angeles, Calif.)Channel: NBA TVStream: FuboTV (Free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the NBA standings and results on NBA.com

New York has played more Christmas Day games than any other franchise, as this will be their 54th appearance on the holiday. They are 22-31 on Christmas Day, with their last appearance in 2018 ending up in a loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Watch the NBA on FuboTV (7-day free trial)GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS vs. PHOENIX SUNSThings move west to see the two best teams in the NBA go head-to-head. The Warriors are 13-17 all-time on Christmas Day, including their loss to the Bucks a year ago. Dallas has only played in four Christmas Day games coming into Saturday, and are 2-2 after falling to the Lakers last season.

Felipe Mora and Santiago Moreno scored and the Portland Timbers advanced to the MLS Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake in the Western Conference final on Saturday.

Larrys Mabiala scored in the 90th minute and the Portland Timbers beat the Colorado Rapids 1-0 on Thursday to advance to the Western Conference final.

The conference Semifinals being on Thanksgiving with a clash between the best team in the Western Conference during the regular season, taking on a team vying for an upset in the heart of Colorado. WESTERN CONFERENCE(1) Colorado Rapids vs. (4) Portland TimbersThe Colorado Rapids began the 2021 season hovering around the top four of the conference, but not quite enough to compete for the top spot in the West. The Timbers continue their impressive surge into the second round after eliminating Minnesota FC with a dominant string late in the first half, and early in the second, this past Sunday. Then, Sebastian Blanco scored twice in the second half to help send Portland out of the first round since making it to the MLS Cup Final in 2018. The two clubs met twice during the regular season, with the first match back in September, while the Rapids grabbed a win on home turf in late-October.

EASTERN CONFERENCE(3) Nashville SC vs. (6) Orlando City SCNashville SC is in the playoffs for the second time in as many seasons that hte franchise has played in the MLS. After not making the playoffs for their first five seasons in the MLS, Orlando has now made it to back-to-back postseasons. They ended up going 13-9-12 during the regular season, and ended going unbeaten in seven of their final eight matches. To go along with the trend Nashville found themselves on during the regular season, they and Orlando drew in all three of their meetings in 2021. WESTERN CONFERENCE(2) Seattle Sounders vs. (7) Real Salt LakeAt one point, the Sounders were the best team in the West, going undefeated through their first 13 matches.

On Tuesday, two of the most talented lineups in the Western Conference get set for a Mile High showdown, as the Colorado Avalance and Vegas Golden Knights try to move past their early season struggles. The Avalanche were projected by many as the team to beat in the Central Division. After beating the newest franchise in the league, the Seattle Kraken, on opening night, the Golden Knights have also been unable to put games into the win column. What: NHL HockeyWho: Vegas Golden Knights (1-4) vs. Colorado Avalanche (2-3)When: Tuesday, October 26Time: 8:00 p.m. ETWhere: Ball Arena (Denver, Colo.)Channel: ESPNStream: FuboTV (7-day free trial), Sling, DirecTV StreamCheck out the NHL standings and results here

The Phoenix Suns on Friday denied allegations of racism, sexism and harassment against owner Robert Sarver ahead of the release of a possible report.

The B2 object-storage service from Backblaze is growing quickly as it offers a more affordable alternative to top cloud provider Amazon Web Services' S3 tool.

Eighteen former NBA players have been arrested and charged with defrauding the NBA's Health and Welfare Benefit Plan out of $4 million, officials familiar with the matter said.

Jersey advertisements are coming to the NHL.

A person familiar with the situation says the Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to trade center Jonas Valanciunas to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for center Steven Adams, guard Eric Bledsoe and an exchange of first-round choices in this week’s draft.

Kawhi Leonard had surgery Tuesday to repair a partial tear of his right ACL.

This version of the Phoenix Suns will be a case study for future NBA general managers on how to build a championship contending roster in a hurry.

So you think you know your Detroit Red Wings playoff trivia?

Paul George scored 41 points, Reggie Jackson added 23 and the resilient Los Angeles Clippers staved off elimination by beating the Phoenix Suns 116-102 in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals.

Deandre Ayton is rapidly become the player the Phoenix Suns imagined when the ping-pong balls bounced their way for the 2018 NBA draft.

When Phoenix’s Deandre Ayton reached over the rim to dunk Jae Crowder’s pass for what became the winning points of the Suns’ 104-103 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, several players immediately argued that the play was illegal.

This is the sixth time in Vandersloot’s career, including the third in her last two seasons, where she has earned the honor.

Tina Charles of the Washington Mystics and Breanna Stewart of the Seattle Storm have been named WNBA players of the week.

May 31, 2002 is one of the most legendary moments in Detroit Red Wings history.

The Nielsen company's weekly list of popular television and streaming shows had one thing in common, the long-running CBS drama ‘NCIS.

The NHL is preparing to adjust playoff contingency plans if virus restrictions in Canada prevent travel between provinces or back and forth to the U.S. Commissioner Gary Bettman says it’s going to depend on government regulations in terms of where teams will be able to travel.

(Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings set an NHL for the most consecutive wins at home in a single season on Feb. 14, 2012. They won their 21st consecutive game of the season in a 3-1 victory over the Dallas Stars that day, then won a 23rd consecutive home game on Feb. 19, 2012 to break the Boston Bruins’ consecutive home game wins record that spanned two seasons in 1929-30. The Red Wings went on to extend their impressive playoff streak record that season to 21 consecutive. The Nashville Predators, however, defeated the Red Wings in the opening round in five games. Here’s a look a the Red Wings roster for that series:Justin AbdelkaderTodd BertuzziDan ClearyPavel DatsyukCory EmmertonJonathan EricssonValtteri Filppula*Johan FranzenDarren Helm*Tomas HolmstromJimmy HowardJiri HudlerNiklas KronwallNicklas LidstromDrew MillerGustav NyquistKyle QuinceyBrad StuartIan WhiteHenrik Zetterberg* Filppula and Helm are on the Red Wings 2020-21 roster -- this is Filppula’s second stint with the franchise.

The NHL said Friday that six Dallas Stars players and two staff members have tested positive for COVID-19 in a development that will push back the opener for the defending Western Conference champions by nearly a week. The Columbus Blue Jackets also held a number of players off the ice “out of abundance of caution” in another reminder that the pandemic will likely play havoc with the season opening next Wednesday. Dallas had been set to open the season Jan. 14 at Florida. The Dallas players and staff are self-isloating and the team’s training facilities were closed for the next several days amid contact tracing. The NHL has shortened the regular season to 56 games for each of its 31 teams, who will play only division foes and sometimes multiple times in a matter of a few days.

Seattle Sounders forward Will Bruin (17) shoots to score against Minnesota United during the second half of an MLS playoff Western Conference final soccer match, Monday, Dec. 7, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)SEATTLE – Gustav Svensson scored off a corner kick in the final moments of second-half stoppage time, and the Seattle Sounders beat Minnesota United 3-2 on Monday night to advance to the MLS Cup final. Seattle scored three times in the final 15 minutes of regulation and stoppage time to stun Minnesota and claim the Western Conference championship for the fourth time in the past five seasons. Will Bruin scored in the 75th minute to pull Seattle within 2-1 and set the stage for the wild final moments when the Sounders scored twice off corner kicks. But Svensson came through by rising above on the final corner kick and giving the Sounders the victory.

FILE - In this May 30, 2016, file photo, fans cheer as Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry yells after the Warriors beat the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 7 of the NBA basketball Western Conference finals in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Ben Margot, File)SAN FRANCISCO – Stephen Curry wants to play until he's 40, perhaps even beyond. And he wants it to be with the Golden State Warriors the entire way. “That was always the goal,” Curry said Monday on a Zoom call with reporters following the first day of training camp. Any time I say I want to play up to 40 she'll definitely give me a little look,” Curry said.

With Denver's lead down to four, Murray made a 3-pointer with 2:16 remaining. It would grow to 18 and could have been worse if not for Davis, who scored nine straight Lakers points. The Lakers got the first five points of the third to cut the lead in half, but Denver regained control and led 93-75 after three. Nuggets: Denver's last halftime lead had been a 59-57 edge over the Clippers in Game 3 of the West semifinals. THE AIR UP THEREThe Lakers came into the game 4-0 in the playoffs as the designated road team.

Johnson, 38, spent last season in the Big 3 league, winning the MVP and leading his team to a championship. He last played in the NBA for the Houston Rockets and Utah Jazz during the 2017-2018 season. Johnson reportedly worked out for the Pistons on Tuesday. Various reports, including Chris Hayes of ESPN, say the Pistons and Johnson have agreed to a one-year deal. Detroit Pistons are waiving forward Michael Beasley, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.

Johnson, 38, spent last season in the Big 3 league, winning the MVP and leading his team to a championship. He last played in the NBA for the Houston Rockets and Utah Jazz during the 2017-2018 season. Johnson reportedly worked out for the Pistons on Tuesday. Jeff Goodman of Stadium reported Thursday the Pistons are close to a deal with Johnson, reporting the team is likely to release Michael Beasley to make room. Detroit Pistons on the verge of signing Joe Johnson, source told @Stadium.

Johnson, 38, spent last season in the Big 3 league, winning the MVP and leading his team to a championship. He last played in the NBA for the Houston Rockets and Utah Jazz during the 2017-2018 season. ESPN's Dave McMenamin reports Johnson is working out for the Pistons on Tuesday. Frank Isola of The Athletic reports the Pistons are likely the favorite to sign Johnson. From @TheFrankIsola on @SiriusXMNBA: "From what I'm hearing, Detroit is the favorite to land Joe Johnson.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MAY 12: Tim Duncan #21 of the San Antonio Spurs waits for the Oklahoma City Thunder to bring the ball down court during the second half of Game Six of the Western Conference Semifinals during the 2016 NBA Playoffs at theThe San Antonio Spurs on Monday announced that Will Hardy and Tim Duncan will be added to Gregg Popovichs bench as assistant coaches. Hardy first joined the Spurs as a basketball operations intern in 2010 after graduating from Williams College. Will Hardy is a talented, young basketball mind who has earned a great deal of respect from everyone in the organization thanks to his knowledge, spirit and personality, said Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich. Duncan, a 1997 Wake Forest graduate, played 19 seasons with the Spurs before retiring in the summer of 2016. It is only fitting that after I served loyally for 19 years as Tim Duncans assistant, that he returns the favor, said Popovich.

The Croatians were led by Roko Rogic who had 9 points, six rebounds and five assists. Utah Jazz 97, Portland Trail Blazers 93The Utah Jazz got an impressive win over the Portland Trail Blazers with Tony Bradley leading the way. Bradley had 17 points, seven rebounds and three assists while Afernee Simons of the Trail Blazers had 35 points, six rebounds and two assists. The Suns guard James Palmer Jr. led the way for them with 18 points, five rebounds and four assists. The Clippers were led by Terance Mann, who had 15 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists.

In a Western Conference matchup, the Las Vegas Aces took on the Los Angeles Sparks. The game was close in the first quarter, but at the midway point in the second quarter the Sparks started to pull away. Candance Parker lead the way with 18 points and nine rebounds. Chelsea Gray also scored 18 points, and rookie Kalani Brown added 12 to help the Sparks snap a four-game losing streak. Liz Cambage led the way with 18 points, A'ja Wilson added 13 points and Kayla McBride had 10 points.

1 team in the Western Conference, the Las Vegas Aces. Sitting at 4th in the Western conference and a 4-6 record the Sparks will have to pick up the pace to have a winning season. Leading the way for the Sparks is Maria Vadeeva who averages 24 points per game, along with Nneka Ogwumike who averages 14 points per game. Coming off a win against the Seattle Storm, the Las Vegas Aces are in first place place in the Western conference. Led by A'ja Wilson, who averages 15 points and 7 rebounds per game, the Aces have a good chance on continuing to get wins.