Many thought Celtics would tank without Jayson Tatum. Are they actually East contenders?

Mauricio Pochettino expressed optimism regarding the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) following their draw in Group D for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Paraguay, Australia, and a UEFA playoff team. This marks the U.S.'s second time hosting the tournament, with high expectations from fans and analysts alike.

The Colorado Rockies, having finished last in Major League Baseball last season with a record of 119 losses, are undergoing a significant transformation under new general manager Josh Byrnes, previously of the Los Angeles Dodgers. This change comes after seven consecutive losing seasons and a desperate need for improvement.

Billy Donovan, head coach of the Chicago Bulls, stated he has no knowledge of any trade discussions involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, despite ongoing rumors linking the star player to various teams, including the Knicks and the Bulls. Reports suggest the Bulls were offered a chance to acquire Antetokounmpo but declined the opportunity.

MLB free agency is currently active, with teams negotiating to sign various players, including veteran pitcher Ranger Suarez, who is reportedly being pursued by the New York Mets among other teams outside the Philadelphia Phillies.

The Washington Nationals are considering trading pitcher MacKenzie Gore as part of their roster evaluation under new leadership from Paul Toboni and Blake Butera. This speculation has intensified, with reports indicating that a trade could occur ahead of the MLB winter meetings.

Luka Doncic, the star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, is set to miss his second consecutive game against the Boston Celtics due to personal reasons, as he is currently in Slovenia for the birth of his second child with fiancée Anamaria Goltes. The Lakers are now focused on determining a potential timeline for Doncic's return to the court.

The Los Angeles Clippers have officially parted ways with veteran guard Chris Paul, a decision stemming from reported conflicts with the coaching staff and management. Paul expressed feeling 'scarred' by his experiences in Los Angeles and is open to joining a new team this season.

Ken Holland, the general manager of the Los Angeles Kings, has dismissed speculation regarding a coaching change amid a fluctuating season for the team, which has seen them struggle early on but show improvement in November. The Kings' performance has been inconsistent, with a rough start followed by a better showing recently.