I am a professional SEO Content Writer. I see content writing as a way to express myself. Aside from following sports update and staying abreast of all the buzz in the sport world, I am SEO Savvy... I spend time researching topics that you will likely enjoy reading about next. Hit me up anytime!
FA overturns Lewis-Skelly’s red card but charges Arsenal for player reactions (Arsenal)
Following Saturday’s Premier League victory over Wolves at Molineux, Arsenal’s players confronted match referee Michael Oliver, leading to charges from the FA. This incident occurred after defender Myles Lewis-Skelly received a red card just before halftime.
Earlier this week, the red card issued by Oliver, who was not prompted to review his decision on the pitchside monitor by VAR assistants at Stockley Park, was overturned.
Lewis-Skelly’s dismissal overturned, but Arsenal still in hot water with FA (Arsenal)
An FA statement noted, “The club allegedly failed to ensure that its players did not behave in an improper manner around the 43rd minute. Arsenal FC has until Monday, 3 February, to provide a response.”
Should the FA find Arsenal guilty, the club faces a fine due to the incident, which involved several players approaching Oliver to voice their complaints after Lewis-Skelly’s dismissal.
Fortunately for manager Mikel Arteta, his team secured a 1-0 win, courtesy of a late goal from Riccardo Calafiori, despite Wolves also experiencing a red card.
Red Card Controversy and Appeal Success
The decision made by Oliver to issue a straight red to Lewis-Skelly, coupled with the lack of intervention from VAR officials Darren England and Adrian Holmes, frustrated many, including Arteta and his squad. Initially, it was stated that Lewis-Skelly had engaged in violent conduct.
However, following Arsenal’s appeal, the panel overturned Lewis-Skelly’s three-match suspension. The panel’s written reasoning indicated that Oliver had made a clear error and that there was agreement among its members.
The explanation detailed that Lewis-Skelly “had stepped across his opponent and tripped him up, possibly deliberately, but in doing so he had obviously not endangered the safety of his opponent or used excessive force or brutality, nor had he ‘lunged’ in at his opponent.”
Join the football.london Arsenal WhatsApp channel During a group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, along with players Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Jesus, posed with the Arsenal Therapy Dog, Win.
Stay updated with the latest breaking news, opinions, podcasts, and in-depth stories from football.london’s dedicated Arsenal writers by joining our Arsenal WhatsApp channel.
By subscribing to this free service, you will be among the first to receive news from the Emirates Stadium as it happens.
To become part of our exclusive Arsenal channel, simply click this link to join thousands of others following our Gunners coverage!
Pressure mounts on Spurs manager after four consecutive Premier League losses (Tottenham)
The current favorite for dismissal is Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou. According to bookmakers talkSPORT BET, their managerial betting markets have shifted following Spurs’ recent defeat to struggling Leicester City on Sunday.
Do you believe you know who will be the seventh Premier League manager to depart this season? New customers who sign up and place a bet in this market can receive up to £40 in free bets for football!
This season has seen a wave of managerial changes across the Premier League (Tottenham Hotspur)
Managerial Changes This Season
This season has seen six Premier League managers lose their jobs. Erik ten Hag of Manchester United was the first to go in October, quickly followed by Leicester’s Steve Cooper less than a month later. On December 15th, both Gary O’Neil of Wolves and Russell Martin of Southampton were also relieved of their duties.
Julen Lopetegui was dismissed at the London Stadium after just six months in charge. The most recent managerial casualty is Sean Dyche, who faced challenges during his tenure with Everton.
Comparison to Last Season
This season’s managerial changes have already doubled the total from the entire 2023/24 campaign, where only three managers were sacked: Paul Heckingbottom (Sheffield United), Steve Cooper (Nottingham Forest), and Roy Hodgson (Crystal Palace).
Given the competitiveness of the current season, more managerial changes may be on the horizon, with talkSPORT BET indicating that Postecoglou is the frontrunner to be dismissed at odds-on 2/5.
Postecoglou’s Position at Risk
After Sunday’s disappointing loss to Leicester, Postecoglou’s job security is tenuous. The Foxes, previously on a seven-match losing streak, mounted a remarkable comeback to secure three points and escape the relegation zone.
For Tottenham, this defeat marked their fourth consecutive loss in the Premier League, leaving them with just one win in their last 11 league matches and a mere five points from a possible 33.
Tottenham’s Current Standing
Sitting at 15th place in the table, Tottenham has accumulated 24 points, remaining eight points above the relegation zone while trailing 17 points behind the Champions League qualification spots.
Fans expressed their dissatisfaction with boos and jeers at the final whistle, accompanied by chants directed at chairman Daniel Levy throughout the match.
Pressure Mounting on Postecoglou
This latest loss has heightened the pressure on Postecoglou, who hopes to see the return of key players such as Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
When asked about his future in the wake of these struggles, the Australian coach responded, “Who knows. I reckon there is probably a fair chunk that will say no.
When you are the manager of a football club you can be very vulnerable and isolated. I don’t feel that. I feel like this group of players are giving everything for the club. I have a group of staff that is really committed. I focus on that.”
Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card overturned after FA review (Arsenal)
Referee Michael Oliver issued a red card to Myles Lewis-Skelly during the first half at Molineux. This decision was made after the Arsenal player fouled the Wolves full-back by catching him on the ankle as he attempted to initiate a counter-attack.
While the VAR did not overturn the controversial call, it has since been rescinded by the Football Association (FA).
Riccardo Calafiori’s second-half goal seals victory for Arsenal (Arsenal)
The FA confirmed, “An independent Regulatory Commission has upheld a claim of wrongful dismissal in relation to Myles Lewis-Skelly and removed his three-match suspension.
The Arsenal player was sent off for serious foul play during their Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, January 25, 2025.”
Consequently, Lewis-Skelly is now eligible to participate in Arsenal’s next Premier League match at home against Manchester City on Sunday.
Initially, he had been set to serve a three-match suspension due to the red card, which would have excluded him from matches against City and Leicester, as well as the Gunners’ semi-final second leg at Newcastle.
This marked the first red card in Lewis-Skelly’s career, with the young player having received only three yellow cards in his 17 senior appearances.
Despite the dismissal, Mikel Arteta’s team secured a 1-0 victory over Wolves, thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s strike in the second half.
Backlash Against Referee Michael Oliver
Following the incident, referee Oliver faced severe backlash online, including death threats against his family.
This led to what the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) labeled as “abhorrent abuse” directed at Oliver, who is widely regarded as one of the top referees globally.
After the match, Arteta expressed his anger, although he refrained from specifically mentioning Oliver.
Jamie O’Hara expressed his disbelief at Oliver’s decision to send off Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly. In response, the Arsenal manager emphasized the necessity of eliminating abuse directed at referees.
“Every time I talk about this topic, whether it’s about a player, a coach, or a referee, it doesn’t matter,” Arteta stated ahead of his team’s Champions League match against Girona.
“We really have to work harder to eradicate this part of the game that brings nothing but bad stuff, leaves a bad taste, and makes people’s lives more difficult.
Let’s get it out; let’s kick it out. It’s for everyone in football; it should not be permitted. We don’t want it, we don’t need it, and it certainly damages our sport. Let’s get it out.”
Oliver is scheduled to officiate Ipswich’s Premier League match against Southampton on Saturday and has also been assigned to the Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park the following Wednesday.
When asked how online abuse could be eliminated from football, Arteta responded, “First of all, it’s about spending more time making the right decisions, with the right people to get it out.
We have put in laws, measures, and regulations for that kind of thing, but we haven’t done it (on social media).
They’re all talking about it, but no one seems to be moving strongly enough and bringing people in to eradicate that from the game, because it’s just unacceptable.”
Joao Felix's future heats up as Aston Villa emerges as a potential landing spot (Chelsea F.C.)
The chase for Joao Felix has intensified, with Aston Villa emerging as a potential destination for the forgotten star currently at Chelsea.
After making a move from Atletico Madrid for £45 million in the summer, which also involved the transfer of Conor Gallagher, Felix has found himself in a challenging position.
Rasmus Hojlund faces pressure to prove himself after disappointing season (Manchester United)
Reports indicate that the Portuguese international is dissatisfied with his limited playing opportunities, having started only three out of Chelsea’s 23 Premier League matches.
Villa’s head coach, Unai Emery, has long admired Felix, having previously attempted to sign him prior to his Chelsea move.
Meanwhile, Chelsea is reportedly interested in acquiring Villa’s £80 million-rated Jhon Duran to strengthen their attacking options, making it plausible for Felix to be included in a potential player exchange.
Rasmus Hojlund Faces Uncertain Future
Previously regarded as untouchable, Rasmus Hojlund’s status at Manchester United seems to be shifting, with speculation about his potential sale gaining momentum.
The young forward is currently under scrutiny, as he must prove himself before the season concludes. Hojlund has struggled this season, netting just two league goals and failing to score in his last 11 Premier League appearances.
Sources indicate that United’s strict manager, Ruben Amorim, remains unconvinced about the £72 million investment. This development has caught the attention of clubs in Italy, with Napoli and Juventus reportedly monitoring the situation.
If United opts to part ways with the 21-year-old, they may incur a considerable loss compared to the fee paid to Atalanta, a decision made under the guidance of Amorim’s predecessor, Erik ten Hag. Hojlund’s record stands at 23 goals and three assists across 71 matches for the Red Devils.
Graham Potter’s Urgent Striker Search
Graham Potter is actively seeking to enhance West Ham’s attacking options as the transfer window approaches its final hours.
The new head coach has expressed the necessity of bringing in a new striker following the injury to Niclas Fullkrug.
West Ham has compiled a list of up to ten forward options, with Evan Ferguson topping their wishlist.
The club believes they are in a strong position to secure Ferguson on loan from Brighton, although the Irish forward’s ankle injury, which has sidelined him for the last six matches, poses a challenge.
Additionally, reports suggest that West Ham has reached an agreement on personal terms with Brian Brobbey for a £100,000-a-week deal, but negotiations with Ajax have yet to yield a result. Initial discussions have also taken place with RB Leipzig regarding Portugal international Andre Silva, yet Ferguson remains the primary target for Potter, who has previously worked with him at Brighton.
However, interest in Ferguson also comes from Bournemouth, Tottenham, Everton, and various clubs across Europe.
Fikayo Tomori’s Commitment to AC Milan
Fikayo Tomori appears set to remain with AC Milan this month, contrary to earlier expectations of a return to England.
The English centre-back has attracted interest from several Premier League teams, including Tottenham and West Ham.
It was initially believed that Tomori sought a departure from the San Siro after losing favor under former Milan coach Paulo Fonseca
However, under the management of Sergio Conceicao, who succeeded Fonseca,
Tomori has reclaimed his spot as a regular starter. Sources close to the 27-year-old indicate he is now content to continue his career in Italy, putting to rest earlier speculation about a move back to the Premier League.
Financial challenges mount for Ineos across multiple sports ventures (INEOS)
After Manchester United suffered a 3-1 defeat against Brighton last weekend, manager Ruben Amorim described the team as “the worst” in its history.
Currently, United is positioned 13th in the Premier League, closer to relegation than qualifying for the Champions League.
A good moment in Ratcliffe’s tenure occurred with Amorim’s hiring. Since acquiring a minority stake last year, the UK chemicals magnate has orchestrated an overhaul of the club’s upper management, resulting in a reduction of 250 positions.
Real Madrid becomes the first club to surpass €1 billion in annual revenue (Real Madrid)
This is now fully Ratcliffe’s operation, but it is clear that things are not revealing as intended. Ratcliffe’s sailing venture is also facing challenges.
Recently, Ineos announced its America’s Cup team would part ways with renowned British sailor Sir Ben Ainslie due to a lack of agreement on future terms. Ainslie expressed his shock, even hinting at potential legal action.
With a diverse sports portfolio that includes Formula One, cycling, and rugby, it seems that Ineos and Ratcliffe will encounter multiple challenges in the upcoming weeks and months.
This week, a financial analysis of European football’s elite clubs will be conducted, including a look at DAZN’s numbers after another year of substantial losses. Continue reading for insights — Josh Noble, sports editor.
Share your tips and feedback with us. If you’re not already receiving the email newsletter, sign up for updates. For all our readers, let’s get started.
VIPs and Sponsors Power Growth for Football Elite
Deloitte’s annual report on the elite football sector has just been released, revealing some encouraging figures.
The primary highlights from the 2023/24 season are clear: matchday revenue is where the growth is happening, while commercial income has become more crucial for several leading teams than broadcasting revenue.
Total income for the top 30 clubs in football increased by 6 percent, reaching a new high. So far, the outlook appears positive.
Once again leading the wealth rankings, Real Madrid became the first club to exceed €1 billion in annual revenue.
Their matchday income soared to €248 million last season, thanks largely to the €1.3 billion renovation of the Santiago Bernabéu.
This upgrade not only expanded seating capacity but also enhanced premium hospitality services and opened opportunities for hosting various non-football events, including NFL games and concerts by artists like Taylor Swift. Many clubs are now attempting to replicate this success.
Real Madrid’s commercial revenue jumped to €482 million, compared to €316 million from broadcasting, contributing to a 26 percent increase in the club’s entire income.
Other clubs also reported revenue increases, with Arsenal, Newcastle, and Aston Villa enjoying obvious gains. However, as with previous Deloitte reports, there is a key piece of information missing from this data: profits.
Despite surpassing the €1 billion threshold, Real Madrid managed to achieve a mere €15.6 million profit, excluding any stadium-related expenses. Manchester City, ranked second in the Money League, also reported operational losses.
Manchester United recorded unprecedented losses of £113 million, with several other clubs expected to report similarly poor financial results in the coming weeks. Football excels at generating income, but it is even more proficient at spending it.
The financial dynamics of football could be shifting. Regulations are moving away from punishing losses and instead emphasizing revenue growth.
As a result, generating income has taken precedence. Investors see football as a chance to capitalize on valuations, with asking prices still driven by revenue rather than profitability.
Nonetheless, it raises the question of when prospective owners will begin to demand more detailed insights into what constitutes a successful business model.
More Growth, More Losses for DAZN
DAZN, a streaming service known for its sports coverage, is expected to release its annual results at Companies House next week, but a preview has been provided.
The UK-based streamer reported a strong revenue increase, reaching $2.9 billion in 2023, compared to $2.2 billion the previous year.
CEO Shay Segev indicated that most of its top ten markets are now profitable. Following a deal to acquire Foxtel for $2.1 billion, Rupert Murdoch has become the company’s second-largest shareholder, with a valuation nearing $10 billion.
However, the positive news is limited. The company’s losses widened to $1.4 billion, up from $1.2 billion in the previous year.
Insiders report that DAZN currently has approximately 300 million monthly users, but only 20 million are paying subscribers.
Sir Leonard Blavatnik, the controlling shareholder, invested an additional $800 million into the business in 2023, bringing his total investment to $6.7 billion.
DAZN has been on an aggressive expansion path for some time, with no signs of slowing down. In addition to the Foxtel acquisition, it has agreed to pay $1 billion for global rights to FIFA’s new Club World Cup, with future rights commitments exceeding $9 billion.
Segev anticipates revenue will reach around $6 billion this year, more than doubling 2023’s figure. The ambition is to transform DAZN into the “Spotify of sport” and build a $200 billion enterprise.
He refrained from commenting on a widely expected investment in the company by the Saudi state, stating, “We will need to see what happens.”
Many sports executives are hopeful that his optimistic projections will materialize and that the company will stop its cash burn.
Ratcliffe’s leadership overhaul brings changes but not immediate results (Real Madrid)
While DAZN’s presence in the UK and US is primarily tied to boxing, its fortunes are increasingly pivotal to the health of European football.
The streamer has become the main broadcaster for the struggling French football league and plays a nice role in Spain, Italy, and Germany.
Football has a long and rather disappointing history of aggressive new media companies attempting to disrupt the status quo, only to exhaust their finances and leave the sport grappling with the consequences. There is a prevailing hope that Blavatnik will remain committed.
Next month, the FT’s Business of Football Summit will return for its seventh edition, aiming to explore innovative growth models with top executives from Chelsea FC, La Liga, FC Barcelona, Juventus, and many others.
As a Scoreboard subscriber, you can register for your complimentary digital pass to watch the event online on February 26-27, or join us in person at The Peninsula Hotel in London on February 27.
Amorim challenges Rashford to adapt for a bigger role at Manchester United (Manchester United)
The verdict from the Manchester United boss indicates that Marcus Rashford, when at his best, could greatly enhance the team’s performance, although that potential has yet to be realized.
Amorim stated, “Look at our team and match the profile of the players.” He emphasized that Rashford’s exceptional talent should translate to improved team dynamics, but he must undergo a personal transformation for that to happen.
Manchester United boss maintains firm stance on Rashford’s future (Manchester United)
“If he changes, we will utilize a talent like Rashford, but for now, we need to establish some standards.” Amorim is waiting to see if Rashford is genuinely committed to making this change. “I have nothing against Marcus.
It is nothing personal against Marcus,” he clarified. However, he remains firm in his stance, asserting, “We are a better team with Marcus Rashford, but until the right moment, I won’t change my mind.”
Warning for Rashford
Ruben Amorim has issued a clear message to Marcus Rashford: he must adapt or risk remaining stagnant at Old Trafford.
The situation between Amorim and the discontented striker is “not personal,” yet Amorim has shown unwavering determination, having excluded the 27-year-old from the squad six weeks ago.
Rashford’s aspirations for a transfer to Barcelona, expressing a desire for “a new challenge,” have not materialized, leading to his absence from the last 11 matches, including the Europa League clash against FCSB in Bucharest.
Amorim even suggested that he would prefer to select his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach, Jorge Vital, over any player who is not fully committed, specifically targeting Rashford.
The Portuguese manager has noted that Rashford’s training performance has not met the required standards for squad inclusion, and he insists that this will remain the case until the forward demonstrates his commitment to improvement.
Nonetheless, Amorim has also hinted that there is still an opportunity for Rashford to revive his United career if he shows genuine desire and aligns with the team’s expectations.
Jhon Duran’s Transfer News
Aston Villa’s striker Jhon Duran is poised for a medical examination with Al Nassr, the team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, later today.
Reports indicate that the Colombian forward has come to an agreement regarding personal terms in connection with a £65 million transfer.
This move seems to put an end to Arsenal’s interest in acquiring the English striker. The Gunners reportedly made an attempt to secure Duran on Wednesday afternoon.
The 21-year-old, who previously signed from Chicago Fire in 2023, had renewed his contract just last October. Current information suggests that Duran has traveled to London for his medical appointment.
Pogba’s Future with Manchester United
The Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, has received recommendations to pursue a remarkable re-signing of Paul Pogba once his drug suspension concludes in two months.
Currently 31 years old, Pogba has returned to Juventus after two separate tenures with United. His career has faced challenges since a doping test failure resulted in a four-year suspension, which was later reduced to 18 months upon appeal.
While Pogba is currently without a club, he has generated buzz among fans by sharing a cartoon depiction of himself in a Manchester United jersey alongside Ivory Coast star Amad Diallo.
Additionally, he posted an image from a Miami skyscraper with the caption, “Let’s see what’s coming.”
Former Premier League champion with United, Louis Saha, commented on Pogba’s potential return, stating, “When he is fit and firing, he could enter the Manchester United squad and become one of the best players quite quickly.” He noted, “There are only a select few players who truly excite me.
Amad excites me. Neymar excites me. Pogba excites me. Only a handful of players in this world can do what Paul Pogba can do. It’s as simple as that.”
Interest in Tyler Dibling
Tyler Dibling, the 18-year-old Southampton prodigy, is attracting attention from several major German clubs and Tottenham, according to recent reports.
He has emerged as one of the brightest young talents this season and is expected to leave St. Mary’s during the summer transfer window.
German media have reported that the owners of RB Leipzig are keen to finalize a deal for Dibling, who has become their top target for the summer.
However, Leipzig is not his only admirer, as other prominent clubs, including Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, are also pursuing the talented midfielder.
Bayern is convinced that the opportunity to play alongside their top stars could entice Dibling to join their ranks.
Jhon Duran’s Medical with Al Nassr
The Colombian forward, Jhon Duran, currently with Aston Villa, is preparing for a medical examination with Al Nassr, the team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 21-year-old has reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms concerning a £65 million transfer, leading to speculation that Arsenal’s interest in him may have been quashed.
The Gunners had made their intentions clear on Wednesday afternoon regarding the Villa striker. Duran, who joined Aston Villa from Chicago Fire in 2023, had only recently signed a new contract in October. Reports suggest that he will head to London for a medical appointment soon.
Manor Solomon’s Status with Tottenham
Despite facing an injury crisis, Tottenham is not anticipated to recall Manor Solomon from his loan at Leeds.
The Israeli winger, 25, was sent to the Championship team following a series of injuries during his first season at Spurs.
Solomon has shown his quality and fitness at Leeds, scoring five goals in 22 appearances in the first half of the season. Some Spurs fans have questioned whether the club might terminate his loan early due to their injury problems and struggles in the transfer market.
Ange Postecoglou recently dealt with 14 player absences during Thursday’s 3-2 victory against Hoffenheim in the Europa League, with attackers Dominic Solanke, Wilson Odobert, and Timo Werner all currently sidelined.
In January, Tottenham has only signed one player, 21-year-old goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, and Postecoglou has acknowledged that this could be their sole signing this month.
Despite the speculation, sources indicate that Solomon, who joined Spurs on a free transfer in summer 2023, will remain at Leeds for the remainder of the season.
Manchester United’s Re-signing Plans for Pogba
Ruben Amorim has received advice to pursue a bold re-signing of Paul Pogba when his drug suspension concludes in two months. The 31-year-old is currently in his second stint with Juventus after two previous spells at Manchester United.
Rashford’s Barcelona transfer hopes fade as he misses 11 consecutive matches (Manchester United)
Pogba’s career has been in a precarious position following a failed doping test that resulted in a four-year ban, later reduced to 18 months on appeal.
Currently without a club, Pogba has stirred interest by sharing a cartoon of himself in a Manchester United kit alongside Amad Diallo and another image overlooking Miami with the caption, “Let’s see what’s coming.”
Louis Saha, a two-time Premier League champion with United, remarked, “When he is fit and firing, he could join the Manchester United squad and quickly become one of the best players.”
He added, “Only a few players truly excite me. Amad excites me. Neymar excites me. Pogba excites me. Only a few players in the world possess the skills Paul Pogba has. It’s that straightforward.”
Potential Signing of Bayern Starlet by Spurs
Tottenham is considering a late loan move for Mathys Tel, the Bayern Munich rising star. However, they are facing competition from several clubs, including Manchester United.
Canadiens face daunting schedule with key matchups ahead (Montreal Canadiens)
As the NHL regular season nears its end, the Montreal Canadiens find themselves entrenched in a highly competitive race for one of the Eastern Conference’s two wild card playoff spots.
With 90 points, the Canadiens trail the Carolina Hurricanes by a single point for the first wild card position and are tied with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Head coach Julien believes in team’s character as playoffs approach (Montreal Canadiens)
However, Montreal is at a disadvantage in the critical tiebreaker of regulation and overtime wins, adding to the challenges they face in the season’s closing stretch.
Daunting Schedule Adds Pressure
The Canadiens’ path to the playoffs is far from easy, with a demanding schedule that includes matchups against the Winnipeg Jets, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
The team is also looking to bounce back from a crushing 6-2 loss to the Blue Jackets earlier in the week.
Despite these problems, head coach Claude Julien remains optimistic, praising the mix of veteran leadership and young talent in the locker room. “We’ve got character players in that dressing room,” Julien stated, expressing confidence in his team’s ability to regroup and compete.
Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets enter Saturday’s game in a similar state of frustration. After surrendering two late goals in a 5-4 loss to the New York Islanders, the Jets are looking to solidify their position atop the Central Division.
With both teams eager to end their respective slumps, Saturday’s matchup promises to be a pivotal clash in their pursuit of postseason success.
Coach Hynes challenges Wild to reignite their competitive fire (Minnesota Wild)
Following a disappointing stretch, the Minnesota Wild are eager to turn their fortunes around as they prepare for their upcoming match against the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday. Having lost five out of their last six games, the team is in need of a spark.
After a narrow 5-4 defeat to the Calgary Flames on Saturday, Wild coach John Hynes issued a strong challenge to his players.
Marco Rossi shines with three assists despite Wild’s struggles (Minnesota Wild)
“Now we’re choosing to lose,” Hynes stated. “That’s hard. Losing’s not easy. Winning’s not easy. We’ve got to get back to the commitment level that it takes to win. The mentality, the fire, the competitiveness, the depth in the lineup. Right now, it’s not enough. It’s not enough.”
In the third period, Marco Rossi contributed assists on all three of Minnesota’s goals, bringing his season total to 43 points, which exceeds the 40 he achieved during the 2023-24 season.
However, persistent issues plagued the Wild, allowing the Flames to take early control of the game. Minnesota conceded two power-play goals, marking a total of seven allowed while shorthanded in the last six games.
The Wild did showcase improvement with a season-high 11 takeaways against the Flames.
Chicago Blackhawks Face Overtime Struggles
On a positive note, the Chicago Blackhawks began their four-game homestand on January 18 by defeating the playoff-contending Vegas Golden Knights 5-3.
However, they followed that victory with two consecutive 4-3 overtime losses to the Carolina Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Lightning, both of which are in contention for playoff positions in the Eastern Conference.
During Friday’s game, Chicago jumped to a 3-1 lead against the Lightning early in the second period but was unable to maintain that lead. Tampa Bay outshot the Blackhawks 40-14 in all, including a staggering 18-1 in the third period and overtime.
“That’s the part of the season we’re struggling with: the ‘could’ves, should’ves,’ instead of just getting it done,” expressed Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno.
Roster Changes and Emerging Talent
As the game comes to play, Chicago made a major move by trading forward Taylor Hall to Carolina as part of a three-team deal. This decision led to considerable reflection among players in the locker room.
“We have no one else to blame but ourselves, really, in putting ourselves in the situation where they have to start thinking about the future and selling off,” Foligno remarked. “It’s not a fun feeling for anybody in here.”
Despite another challenging season, Chicago aims to continue nurturing its young talent. With only 35 points so far, they have the second-fewest in the NHL.
Connor Bedard, last season’s NHL Rookie of the Year, registered an assist on Friday and has accumulated at least one point in 13 of his last 15 games. He leads the team in both assists and points.
Rookie Colton Dach made headlines by scoring his first career goal, while fellow newcomers Louis Crevier and Frank Nazar each contributed a goal and an assist.
Historically, Minnesota has had the upper hand in their previous three meetings this season against the Blackhawks, winning two of those games, all decided by just one goal.
The last encounter ended with a 4-3 victory for the Wild at home on December 23, featuring contributions from ten different players, including two assists from Yakov Trenin.
For the Blackhawks, Teuvo Teravainen has been a thorn in Minnesota’s side with 13 points in his last 12 games against them, though he has yet to score against the Wild this season.
Stay updated with the latest headlines and developments regarding Indian athletes competing for glory in Paris.
Catch all the action from Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favorite teams and players with the most recent match results, and keep an eye on international hockey tournaments and series.
Julien’s pregame focus pays off as Bruins dominate Buffalo 4-0 (Boston Bruins)
The Bruins expressed disappointment regarding their power play during Saturday night’s matchup against the New York Rangers, where they suffered a 5-2 defeat, which included two shorthanded goals allowed.
Coupled with a disappointing 7.9 percent success rate on power plays—the second-lowest in the league—after the first 11 games, the Black & Gold left TD Garden feeling discontented.
Julien earns 400th win as Bruins excel in special teams against Sabres (Boston Bruins)
Following a day off to regroup, the Bruins returned to the ice on Monday morning for a pregame skate, where coach Claude Julien emphasized the importance of improving special teams.
This additional practice evidently paid off, as Boston dominated the Buffalo Sabres with a 4-0 victory on Monday night, scoring three power-play goals during the game.
“Just worked on it this morning and gave them the due responsibility as some of the best players on our team that they had to step up.
They did that tonight,” noted Julien, who achieved his 400th win with the Bruins. He emphasized the importance of taking pride in their performance and being difference-makers instead of suffering another loss.
Power-play goals came from Brad Marchand, David Krejci, and Jake DeBrusk in the second and third periods, with Krejci netting his first goal of the season.
Goaltender Tuukka Rask recorded 32 saves for his second shutout, leading the Bruins to their fourth victory in five games.
Krejci attributed the power play’s improvement to reviewing past successful plays. “We looked at some clips when we were doing fine, when we were moving the puck well and moving our feet.
I thought that’s what we did today. We didn’t really just stand in one spot. We were moving all over the ice and creating some good scoring chances and got three goals,” he remarked. He expressed hope for continued success in future games.
Doubling their season output on the power play, the Bruins improved from just 3 for 38 entering the game, alleviating some pressure that had built throughout the early part of the season.
“You know, it’s always about time, but it can’t work every night,” commented David Pastrnak, who led the team with eight goals. “Last game it didn’t go well and today it went well.
Just going to try to keep doing the same thing like we did today on the next power play and hopefully it’s going to be good for us.”
Beleskey Breaks Out
Returning to the lineup on Saturday after being scratched during the Bruins’ previous win over Tampa Bay, Matt Beleskey made a famous impact. Coach Julien praised the winger’s energy and effort despite the team’s loss.
On Monday night, he stepped up even further, assisting Marchand’s opening goal for his first point of the season and engaging in a fight with Derek Grant in the third period. Although he was initially credited with a goal, it was later awarded to Nash after a review.
“He was definitely in the right place tonight,” Julien stated. “He seemed like a more determined player, and sometimes, you know, you need to sit out and miss the game a little bit or whatever to really spark things.
And that’s why we do those things. I said it right from the get-go, I’m not punishing him; I’m trying to get him going. And whether it’s that or something else, at the end of the day, he’s a better player lately.”
Beleskey’s aggressive forecheck enabled Nash to retrieve the puck in the corner, leading to a shot that deflected off a Sabres defenseman. “Skey had an awesome game tonight.
He was one of our best players, so if he got it or I got it, it didn’t really matter,” Nash said. “I think he’s just been back to his old self.
He’s a hard-nosed player who shoots the puck, and when he’s in on the forecheck, he creates a lot of turnovers. He’s easy to play with, and I really enjoy playing in the middle with him; it makes my game a lot easier.”
While Beleskey refrained from claiming that being scratched was beneficial, he acknowledged that it offered him an opportunity to reflect on his game. “I don’t want to say it helped me; I don’t want to get scratched again,” he chuckled.
“That’s not what you want, but like I said [in Tampa], it’s a reset—a time to think about the game, look at it, and come back with an open mind.
I think the coaches have been helping me work through it, and that’s all you can do: work hard and hopefully get some bounces like I did tonight.”
Krejci on the Board
Krejci found the back of the net with a powerful one-timer from the left point during a power play, giving the Bruins a 2-0 lead in the second period.
He felt relieved to finally score after a few games without finding the net. “After a few games when you don’t score, you start squeezing your stick, and every time you have a good scoring chance and you don’t put it in the net, you get a little frustrated,” Krejci explained.
“It was nice to get the first one, and hopefully I can build a little more confidence and help the team with offense.”
Rask Gets the Shutout
Achieving his 32nd career shutout, Rask moved into third place on the Bruins’ all-time list. With this victory, he improved his season record to 7-1-0.
“Obviously, it’s a very long history with this organization, so it’s good to have your name in the record books,” Rask stated.
Hurricanes' home streak tested by Rangers in season debut meeting (Carolina Hurricanes)
On November 17, 2024, in Raleigh, North Carolina, the Carolina Hurricanes are solidifying their chances for home-ice advantage as they face the New York Rangers.
This matchup marks a difference to last season when the Rangers eliminated the Hurricanes in the second round of the playoffs in six games.
Hurricanes and Rangers collide in a rematch of last year’s playoff battle (Hurricanes/Rangers)
Hurricanes Riding High at Home
Seeking to extend their home winning streak to nine games, the Hurricanes are set to host the Rangers, who are desperate to break a streak of three consecutive losses. This will be their first meeting of the season.
Last year, Carolina narrowly missed claiming the division title by three points, finishing with 111, while the Rangers topped the league with 114 points, securing both the division and the Presidents’ Trophy.
Entering this season, the Hurricanes boast the third-most points in the NHL with 31, having outscored opponents 41-16 at home since suffering a 4-1 defeat to the Tampa Bay Lightning in their opener on October 11.
During their current home winning streak, Carolina has scored at least four goals in each game, achieving this feat 16 times in 21 games throughout the season.
The streak continued with a thrilling 6-4 win against the Dallas Stars, where Carolina netted five goals in the third period. Martin Necas contributed a pivotal power-play goal with less than three minutes remaining, overcoming a 3-1 deficit.
Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour expressed confidence in his team’s potential, saying, “I already know what we have. It’s just, can they grasp how we have to play every switch? Sometimes we get a little off and try to do things differently, but in a game like that, you’re hoping to get the result.”
Sebastian Aho ignited the scoring spree in the third period, contributing three assists, while Seth Jarvis, playing for the first time since November 9, tallied a goal and two assists, including the setup for Necas’s goal.
Despite challenges in net, including Frederik Andersen’s recovery from knee surgery and Pyotr Kochetkov’s concussion protocol following a collision with Sean Walker, the Hurricanes have managed to maintain their winning ways. Spencer Martin took the start in goal on Monday.
Rangers Struggling to Find Momentum
Meanwhile, the Rangers began the season strong with a record of 5-0-1 but have since faltered, posting a 7-7-0 record and enduring three straight losses.
Their recent four-game road trip concluded with a disappointing 6-2 defeat against the Edmonton Oilers, followed by a 5-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues at home.
In the latest loss, Will Cuylle scored twice, but star players Vincent Trocheck, Artemi Panarin, and Mika Zibanejad combined for only six shots on goal and a collective minus-7 rating as the Rangers were outshot 44-29.
New York coach Peter Laviolette voiced his frustration, stating, “We need to be better. Everybody needs to be better. It’s not good enough what we’re doing.”
Adding to the tension, reports surfaced on Monday that general manager Chris Drury might be open to trading forward Chris Kreider and defenseman Jacob Trouba, the latter holding a no-move clause to 15 teams.
Kreider missed the game with an upper-body injury, marking his first absence since January 16, 2023.
He has scored nine goals in 19 games this season, while Trouba has been on the ice for two goals against and has managed just two points after starting the season with four assists in the first three games.
Avalanche eye rebound win to break division slump (Colorado Avalanche)
Following a tough 4-3 defeat to the Winnipeg Jets, the New York Islanders are set to embark on a five-game road trip, commencing with tonight’s matchup against the struggling Colorado Avalanche.
This game marks the final one of the month, preceding what has traditionally been a challenging period for Islanders fans in November.
Last year, the team entered November with a middling 4-5-3 record, only to emerge with a dismal 8-15-4 tally.
Avalanche seek redemption in clash with surging Islanders (Colorado Avalanche)
Presently, the Islanders boast an impressive 6-3-0 record, but a poor road trip could quickly jeopardize their current success.
Last season, the Avalanche had a breakout performance, finishing at the top of the Central Division with 112 points before being eliminated in seven games by the Minnesota Wild.
However, this season has presented challenges, as injuries have taken a toll, resulting in a 2-4-4 record and a last-place position in their division.
With upcoming matches against the Sharks, Ducks, and Kings, securing a win against the Islanders is essential to regain momentum, especially following a recent disappointing loss.
Important Matchups
Tonight’s contest will spotlight two of the top three picks from the 2009 draft, with both teams relying on their franchise cornerstones to deliver in crucial moments.
Currently, one player is tied with Iginla and Barrie for the team lead with seven points, while another leads the team with twelve points despite not performing at his peak. Both players are expected to be significant contributors throughout the game.
The Avalanche’s playoff chances last season were primarily bolstered by goaltender Varlamov, who posted Vezina-quality statistics with a .927 save percentage and a 2.41 goals-against average over 63 games.
Without his exceptional performance, the Avalanche would likely not have remained in playoff contention. This season, he continues to shine, exemplified by a remarkable 49-save effort despite a loss to the San Jose Sharks two days ago.
Recent struggles have led to Johnson getting the start tonight. With a .892 save percentage and a 3.00 goals-against average, his performance has been underwhelming aside from an outstanding game against the Boston Bruins last week.
Following a subpar outing against Dallas, he now has an opportunity to claim a more important role with a strong performance.
Keys to the Game
Special teams play will be crucial, as the Islanders’ power play has fluctuated between effective and nonexistent.
Improvement has been evident when key players are paired together, creating numerous opportunities with the man advantage, but they will be tested against Colorado’s fourth-best penalty kill unit.
Coaching decisions will also play a pivotal role in the game. For the Islanders to succeed, the coach must refrain from over-relying on the fourth line, which has no justified reason for averaging nearly 15 minutes of ice time per game.
While the team’s talent might compensate against weaker opponents like Carolina, prolonged reliance on the fourth line during a challenging road trip could lead to failure.
Lastly, the performance of the top line will be under scrutiny. Last season, the top line thrived while secondary scoring faltered.
This season has seen the opposite trend, with the secondary scoring flourishing, yet the top line has been almost invisible during even-strength play.
Whether this is a result of a key player’s poor performance or other factors, the line must elevate its game for the Islanders to find success.
Prediction
Following a challenging loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Islanders are predicted to rebound with a gritty win on the road, thanks to a breakout performance from the top line, which should see both Tavares and Okposo achieve multi-point games.
Securing two points tonight will not only boost morale for the remainder of the road trip but also demonstrate the team’s resilience, a quality that was notably absent last season.
Stockton Heat's move to Calgary signals strong market confidence in the city (Stockton Heat)
The excitement surrounding hockey in Calgary continues to grow, with the Battle of Alberta in full swing, discussions about a new event center progressing at city hall, and the relocation of the Flames’ AHL affiliate, the Stockton Heat, to the city.
These developments are fueling speculation about whether this momentum could bring Calgary closer to securing a new arena deal.
Mayor Jyoti Gondek calls the Heat’s relocation a major boost for the city (NHL)
Optimism Surrounding the Heat’s Relocation
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek expressed her optimism, highlighting the importance of the Heat’s move. “Having the Stockton Heat relocate to Calgary reflects remarkable market confidence in our city.
We’ve already proven our capacity to host an NHL team, and now, with the addition of another team, this is a big step forward. It’s an exciting time for Calgary,” Gondek shared.
Economist Moshe Lander believes the heightened interest in hockey positions Calgary favorably for negotiations with Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) over a new arena.
“The success of the Flames strengthens the city’s bargaining position,” Lander explained. He also emphasized that the Heat’s relocation adds further justification for CSEC to invest in an upgraded facility, especially with the prospect of both teams sharing the same venue.
“CSEC now has an additional 40 game dates to utilize the building, on top of events hosted by the Hitmen. This could result in as many as 120 hockey-related dates during the winter,” he said.
Timing for a New Arena Deal
Regardless of how the playoffs conclude, Lander considers this an opportune moment to move forward with a new arena project.
“It’s a win-win scenario. If the Flames advance in the series, announcing an arena deal would amplify the celebration. Even if they fall short, the prospect of a new arena would still be a positive takeaway,” he added.
Sportsnet columnist Eric Francis sees no reason Calgary cannot match Edmonton when it comes to arena infrastructure.
He urged the city to take lessons from Edmonton’s Rogers Place, which not only features a state-of-the-art arena but also a vibrant surrounding gathering area.
“Calgary needs a better space for fans to congregate, both inside and outside the arena,” Francis remarked. Currently, the Red Lot in Calgary pales in comparison to Edmonton’s setup, Francis noted.
“Packing 5,000 people into a parking lot might look great on TV, but Edmonton offers a superior experience with their arena complemented by a beautiful gathering space capable of hosting tens of thousands for celebrations,” he said.
