Mark Giordano, former captain of the Calgary Flames, has been appointed as an assistant coach for the Toronto Marlies for the 2026-27 American Hockey League season. This new role follows his previous advisory position within the organization.

Giordano will join the coaching staff led by newly appointed head coach Steve Sullivan. The coaching team also includes goaltending coach Hannu Toivonen and video coach Nick Biamonte.

Giordano’s Transition to Coaching

Giordano’s move to an assistant coaching role comes after a distinguished playing career. He captained the Flames from 2013 to 2021, taking over from Jarome Iginla. During his 15 seasons in Calgary, Giordano played in 949 regular-season games, placing him third in franchise history for appearances. He established himself as one of the organization’s most accomplished defencemen.

His time with the Flames concluded when he was selected by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft. He was named the inaugural captain for the Kraken before eventually joining the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he played for three seasons prior to announcing his retirement in 2024.

One of the highlights of Giordano’s playing career was the 2018-19 season, where he achieved his best offensive numbers with 17 goals and 57 assists, totalling 74 points, along with a plus-39 rating. This performance earned him the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL‘s top defenceman.

In the 2019-20 season, Giordano was also recognized with the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award. This award is presented annually to a player who demonstrates leadership on and off the ice, making a positive community impact and contributing to the growth of hockey.

Steve Sullivan, the new head coach, spoke about Giordano’s addition, describing him as an “elite hockey mind” who will have a significant opportunity to manage the defence and penalty kill units. Sullivan emphasized that he plans to work collaboratively with Giordano to find someone to oversee the power play.

Sullivan’s Return and Vision for the Marlies

Sullivan’s appointment as head coach marks his return to the Marlies, having previously served as an assistant coach with the team before being elevated to the Maple Leafs on December 26, 2025. He initially joined the organization prior to the 2024-25 season.

Before his tenure in Toronto, Sullivan held the position of assistant general manager for the Arizona Coyotes from 2017 to 2021, where he oversaw their AHL affiliate, the Tucson Roadrunners. His experience with the Coyotes also included roles in hockey operations as a development coach and later as director of player development.

As a player, Sullivan participated in 1,011 regular-season games over 16 seasons in the NHL, playing for teams such as New Jersey, Toronto, Chicago, Nashville, Pittsburgh, and Arizona. He also played 143 games in the American Hockey League, where he won a Calder Cup with the Albany River Rats in 1995 and appeared in two AHL All-Star Classics.

Sullivan discussed the process of his appointment, noting that changes were anticipated within the organization. He had interviewed for the head coaching position with the Maple Leafs, which provided him with a broader perspective on team management. Although he did not secure that role, it solidified his interest in coaching at a higher level.

He highlighted the importance of organizational alignment, stating that every organization aims for vertical integration from top to bottom. Sullivan emphasized that the AHL‘s purpose is to support the main NHL team in its pursuit of a Stanley Cup, acknowledging that player development paths can vary.

Sullivan’s vision for the Marlies includes fostering both on-ice and off-ice development for players, preparing them to become difference-makers in the NHL. He plans to manage the staff by empowering them in their respective departments, allowing them to grow and contribute effectively to player development.

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced Sullivan’s appointment as head coach of the Toronto Marlies on July 9, 2026.

Source: ca.sports.yahoo.com

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Okamoto’s Historic Home Run

Kazuma Okamoto of the Toronto Blue Jays has achieved a significant milestone in his rookie season, hitting his 22nd home run of the year. This powerful three-run blast tied the record for the most home runs hit by a Japanese-born rookie in Major League Baseball, a record previously held by Shohei Ohtani.

The historic home run occurred on Friday night in San Diego against the Padres. Okamoto connected with a 95-m.p.h. sinker from reliever Jhony Brito in the fifth inning, sending the ball 377 feet over the left-field wall. This hit provided the Blue Jays with an immediate offensive boost, contributing to their 5-3 victory over the Padres.

Okamoto’s performance helped the Blue Jays snap a three-game losing streak. The Padres, conversely, recorded their 11th loss in 14 games. Mason Fluharty (4-0) earned the win for Toronto, while Louis Varland secured his 19th save of the season, allowing one run on three hits in the ninth inning.

The Blue Jays had chased starting pitcher JP Sears (2-2) in the fifth inning after singles surrounded the first out, leading to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. greeting Brito with an RBI single before Okamoto’s home run. Earlier in the game, San Diego‘s Xander Bogaerts hit a two-run shot in the first inning, marking his ninth home run and ending a streak of 128 plate appearances without a homer.

Shane Bieber, making his fourth start of the season for Toronto, allowed two runs and six hits over 4 2/3 innings. Bieber’s season debut was delayed until June 23 due to forearm fatigue.

Comparing Rookie Seasons and Franchise Records

Okamoto’s 22nd home run matches the mark set by Shohei Ohtani in 2018 during his rookie season with the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani’s impressive rookie campaign followed five years with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Nippon Professional Baseball, where he transitioned to the majors and eventually earned the AL Rookie of the Year award.

Okamoto’s journey to the Blue Jays involved 11 years with the Yomiuri Giants, where he was consistently among the league’s top home run hitters. His current achievement places him in rare company, particularly as he reached 22 home runs before the All-Star break.

This tally of 22 home runs before the All-Star break is the most by a Blue Jays player since Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit 28 and Marcus Semien hit 22 in 2021. Furthermore, it represents the most home runs by a Toronto rookie in the franchise’s history. Okamoto is now only two home runs shy of tying the overall Blue Jays’ rookie record, which is currently held by Eric Hinske, who hit 24 home runs in 2002.

The all-time rookie home run record in MLB belongs to Pete Alonso, who hit 53 home runs in 2019. Okamoto’s recent performance also includes hitting his first career grand slam on Wednesday in San Francisco.

In other news concerning Japanese rookies, Munetaka Murakami rejoined the Chicago White Sox on Friday night. Murakami had been sidelined for over a month due to a strained right hamstring. He was named to the AL All-Star team and is scheduled to participate in the Home Run Derby in Philadelphia.

Looking ahead, the Blue Jays are scheduled to start right-handed pitcher Trey Yesavage (4-4, 3.31 ERA) on Saturday night, while the Padres are slated to counter with right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler (5-5, 5.07).

Source: sportsnet.ca

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The Toronto Blue Jays are navigating significant pitching decisions as veteran right-hander Max Scherzer progresses through his rehabilitation and fellow right-hander Shane Bieber continues to face challenges on the mound. These developments come as the team looks to improve its standing in the American League East.

Max Scherzer, who will turn 42 in a couple of weeks, began the 2026 MLB season healthy but has since dealt with two separate stints on the injured list. He initially went down on April 25 with a forearm strain and later returned to the injured list on June 14 due to back spasms. In his six starts this year, Scherzer has pitched 22 innings, recording a 1-4 record with a 10.23 ERA, 14 strikeouts, and 11 walks.

Scherzer’s Rehabilitation Progress

Scherzer has been working his way back from the back spasms, making two rehabilitation starts in the minors. These starts took place at High-A Vancouver and Triple-A Buffalo. According to reports, he is nearing the end of his rehab process. He is scheduled to throw a bullpen session in Toronto on Saturday, followed by another rehab start with the Blue Jays’ FCL team in Florida on Tuesday. His next start after the Florida outing could potentially be in the major leagues, suggesting a possible return to the active roster immediately after the upcoming break.

Should Scherzer be activated, the Blue Jays would face a personnel decision regarding their pitching depth, as his return would theoretically create a six-man rotation. This situation could lead to difficult choices for the team, especially given the current performance of other pitchers.

Bieber’s Recent Performance

The potential return of Scherzer puts a spotlight on Shane Bieber, who has experienced a difficult period since returning from elbow issues. In three starts, Bieber has pitched 13 innings, holding an 0-1 record with a 9.00 ERA. During these outings, he has recorded nine strikeouts, walked seven batters, and surrendered six home runs. Batters have achieved a .351/.422/.737 slash line against him. His fastball velocity is reportedly in the 15th percentile, and his average exit velocity is around the 5th percentile.

Both Bieber and Scherzer have not performed at their best during the 2026 season. Despite their struggles, the team appears to remain committed to both pitchers. However, maintaining a six-man rotation might not be a viable long-term solution if their performance issues persist. One of them could potentially be moved to the bullpen, an area of the team that has open slots following the trade of Tommy Nance.

Another pitcher who could be affected by these decisions is right-hander Chad Dallas, who has been moving between the major league club and Triple-A this year. A move of either Bieber or Scherzer to the bullpen would provide the club with an additional long relief arm, joining lefty Patrick Corbin, who was previously moved to the bullpen.

Team Standings and All-Star Selections

The Blue Jays currently hold a 44-49 record, placing them 11 games behind the first-place Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East. The team is scheduled to play a weekend series against the San Diego Padres, which will be their final series before the upcoming All-Star Break.

Regarding the All-Star Game, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Ernie Clement were named as starters for the American League. However, Vlad Guerrero Jr. has reportedly withdrawn from the event. Other Blue Jays players selected include pitcher Dylan Cease and relief pitcher Louis Varland. The team is second last in the league in runs per game, indicating that starting pitching issues are likely to continue to be a primary concern.

The Blue Jays will play their final series before the All-Star Break against the San Diego Padres.

Source: sports.yahoo.com

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A regular-season WNBA game in Montreal on Friday saw a new attendance record set, with the Toronto Tempo playing the Dallas Wings. The event took place in a city that does not currently host a permanent team. The crowd at the Bell Centre demonstrated support for the professional women’s basketball league, despite the Tempo being an expansion team from Toronto.

The attendance figure for the game was reported as 20,996, surpassing the previous WNBA regular-season attendance record of 20,711, which was set in 2024 in Washington, D.C. The Tempo lost to the Wings with a final score of 108-95.

Game Highlights and Player Performances

Dallas Wings player Paige Bueckers scored a game-high 34 points. She also contributed six rebounds and six assists. Jessica Shepard added 20 points for Dallas and secured a game-high 17 rebounds. For the Tempo, Marina Mabrey led the team with 34 points, while Laura Juskaite scored 25 points. The game was a back-and-forth contest, with six lead changes in the third quarter. Dallas ultimately pulled away in the fourth quarter, outscoring Toronto 24-10.

Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello commented on the team’s role, stating, “We say we’re Canada’s team so we’re taking the show on the road.” She also noted the unique opportunity to create firsts for the league in Canada. Jose Fernandez, head coach for Dallas, acknowledged the significance of the event for Canadian basketball fans and the trajectory of the WNBA.

Isabelle Harrison, a forward for the Tempo, expressed pride in representing Canada, saying, “It’s bigger than us, and I hope Canada’s proud of us.” The Tempo is an international squad, with players and coaches from nine different countries.

Canadian Connections and Future Outlook

The game marked the first of the Tempo‘s Cross Canada Series. The Tempo‘s ownership group includes Geoff Molson, owner and president of the Montreal Canadiens, and alternate governor France Margaret Belanger. The team is scheduled to play four home games outside of Toronto in its inaugural season, including upcoming games in Vancouver against the Portland Fire on August 21 and the Las Vegas Aces on August 23.

The Tempo signed Canadian player Kayla Alexander to a seven-day hardship contract, marking her return to the WNBA since 2020. This signing was made to address the team’s need in the frontcourt due to injuries to Nyara Sabally and Temi Fagbenle. Alexander, from Milton, Ontario, was not expecting the call from the Tempo‘s front office. Her Canadian citizenship allowed her to join the team immediately without a delayed visa process.

The Bell Centre in Montreal also holds the record for the highest regular-season game attendance in the Professional Women’s Hockey League, with 21,105 attendees on April 20, 2024, for a game between Toronto and Montreal. The Tempo‘s visit to Montreal has sparked discussions about the possibility of a permanent WNBA team in the city, potentially fostering a rivalry with Toronto in another sport. Tempo guard Laura Juskaite noted the positive atmosphere, suggesting that it would be beneficial to have two teams in Canada.

Following this game, the Tempo are scheduled to host the New York Liberty in Montreal on Sunday.

Source: sportsnet.ca

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The San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama have reportedly reached an agreement on a five-year maximum rookie-scale contract extension. The deal, valued at $252 million, includes a player option for the fifth season. This agreement follows Wembanyama’s decision to accept the 25% maximum rather than a 30% supermax, which could have escalated the contract to $303 million.

Wembanyama confirmed the extension on social media, stating, “Spurs family, I’m here to stay. Whatever it takes.” This commitment comes after discussions between Wembanyama and the Spurs, who presented various extension frameworks, including the full supermax option. The choice for a lesser amount is seen as a strategic move to provide the organization with greater financial flexibility to build a sustained championship contender around him.

Wembanyama’s Impact and Achievements

The 22-year-old Wembanyama became eligible for this extension following the Spurs’ elimination by the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals. His performance during the past season was notable, earning him the 2025-26 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award and leading the league in blocks. He was also named an All-NBA first-teamer and made his second All-Star team appearance, his first as a starter.

Wembanyama is only the sixth player in Spurs franchise history to be an All-Star starter, joining prominent figures like George Gervin, Alvin Robertson, David Robinson, Tim Duncan, and Kawhi Leonard. Last season, he played in 64 games, achieving career highs with 25.0 points and 11.5 rebounds per game, along with 3.1 assists.

His defensive prowess was evident as he tallied a league-high 3.08 blocks per game and 1.03 steals. This made him the seventh player in league history to average at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks in a single season. Wembanyama recorded 42 games with 10 or more rebounds and 42 double-doubles. He also achieved one triple-double, including the fastest double-double in NBA history on March 30, when he secured 10 points and 10 rebounds in 8:31 against the Chicago Bulls.

Building a Contender

The decision to accept a contract that could potentially save the Spurs approximately $50 million over the next five years highlights a shared vision for the team’s future. This flexibility is crucial as the team looks to develop its young core and manage future contracts for other promising players.

The Spurs’ starting lineup, featuring Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, and Julian Champagnie, demonstrated strong performance during the regular season, posting a 21-3 record. This unit finished as the second-best lineup in the NBA, behind Oklahoma City, and is expected to return for the 2026-27 season. The starting unit concluded last season with a plus-18.5 points per 100 possessions.

Wembanyama’s current rookie contract will see him earn approximately $16.8 million this coming season. The newly signed extension will commence in the 2027-28 season with an initial salary of around $43.5 million, with potential increases thereafter. The agreement is considered the richest contract in Spurs history, with a potential $57.5 million option for Wembanyama in the 2031-32 season.

The San Antonio Spurs chairman Peter J. Holt, CEO R.C. Buford, general manager Brian Wright, and coach Mitch Johnson travelled to Paris to meet with Wembanyama and his representatives, underscoring the organization’s commitment to the French player. Wembanyama expressed his reflections on the past season after the Game 5 loss in the NBA Finals, stating, “This has been a hell of a year in terms of experience. I don’t think we could have learned more and gained more experience in one playoff run and in one season, and personally in 18 months. It’s been hard and full of lessons.”

Source: tsn.ca

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Miami Heat captain Bam Adebayo reportedly engaged in a physical altercation with former teammate Tyler Herro. The incident, which allegedly involved Adebayo striking Herro, occurred at a practice court in Las Vegas on Friday, July 10. Las Vegas is currently hosting the NBA Summer League showcase.

According to reports, Adebayo approached Herro regarding a critical social media post Herro had recently made. The alleged strike by Adebayo was near Herro’s face. A spokesperson for the Heat acknowledged awareness of the matter but declined further comment. Herro, when questioned later on Friday, stated, “My only comment is no comment.”

Background to the Altercation

Herro was part of a trade package on June 23 that sent Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Heat. In that deal, Miami also acquired Bobby Portis, while Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kasparas Jakučionis, along with three first-round picks, a second-round selection, and a pick swap, were sent to the Milwaukee Bucks. Bucks coach Taylor Jenkins also declined to comment on the altercation when asked by a radio program, stating he did not know all the specifics.

Adebayo and Herro were teammates for all seven of Herro’s seasons in the NBA, all of which were with Miami. Both players also spent one season playing college basketball at Kentucky, though their tenures in Lexington did not overlap. It is common for current players to gather in Las Vegas during Summer League to support rookies and young players and to conduct additional workouts.

A few days after the trade between Miami and Milwaukee was finalized, screenshots of direct messages between a fan and Herro were leaked. These messages showed Herro discussing the dynamics within the Heat. While Herro did not explicitly name Adebayo, the posts suggested pointed criticism. In one message, Herro wrote, “You should get paid 60 million to be a top tier defender on some night? I’m just wondering, since we talking.” Adebayo’s current contract has an average salary of $53.4 million, making him Miami’s highest-paid player.

Following the revelation of these screenshots, Herro also posted an image to his Instagram story. This image displayed players with the lowest field goal percentage on midrange attempts during the past season. Antetokounmpo topped this list with a 26.8% mark, while Adebayo ranked tenth at 35.9%.

Prior Interactions and Team Dynamics

Earlier on Friday, Herro was interviewed during a broadcast and spoke about his relationship with the Heat. He stated, “It’s all love. It’s all love in Miami. I’ve seen a couple of the guys and coaching staff, (assistant) Chris Quinn, (head coach Erik Spoelstra), front office guys — we’re all good in Miami. This is an opportunity for both sides to reset, get a fresh star and we’re both super happy for this.” It remains unclear whether this interview took place before or after the reported altercation.

Adebayo and Herro had maintained a cordial relationship during their time as teammates in Miami. In a past recorded discussion, Herro had asked Adebayo which Heat player would always support him in a fight. Adebayo responded, “I mean I would hope all of y’all, considering I got all y’all back. One person? Man, I’mma say T, just cause we got the longest relationship.” Herro’s reply was, “Yeah, I’m coming.”

Agents representing both Adebayo and Herro did not respond to requests for comment. Spokespersons for the Bucks also did not return requests for comment. The Heat and Bucks competed against each other in Summer League play on Friday, with Miami winning 119-86.

Source: bleacherreport.com

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The Toronto Blue Jays have completed a trade, sending right-handed pitcher Tommy Nance to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for prospect Ryan Sprock. The transaction also included the Blue Jays sending international signing bonus pool space to the Twins.

Nance, a righty reliever, has been with the Blue Jays for the past three seasons. During his tenure with Toronto, he accumulated 86.2 innings over 82 appearances, maintaining a 3.22 ERA. This season, Nance has made 32 appearances, pitching 33 innings with a 3.82 ERA and a 1.273 WHIP, alongside 34 strikeouts.

Details of the Trade

The trade was officially announced on Friday. Nance, who is from Long Beach, California, was acquired by the Blue Jays from the Padres in August 2024. He played a role in Toronto’s bullpen during their 2025 pennant-winning season, recording a 1.99 ERA across 30 appearances. While primarily used in low-leverage situations, his underlying statistics, including a high strikeout rate and groundball generation, were notable. He also demonstrated an ability to induce swings at pitches outside the strike zone, contributing to a low walk rate.

This season, Nance has continued to perform in a low-leverage capacity for Toronto. His chase rate remains high, though his walk rate has increased, and opponents have been making more contact in the air. Through 33 innings, he holds a 3.82 ERA.

For the Twins, Nance’s acquisition is seen as a move to bolster their bullpen, which has faced struggles this season. The Twins currently rank last in MLB with a 5.28 bullpen ERA. Nance, who has pitched 159 MLB innings, brings more experience than most of Minnesota’s current relief pitchers.

To accommodate Nance on their 40-man roster, the Twins transferred right-hander Mick Abel to the 60-day injured list. Abel had been on the 15-day IL since April 17 and recently underwent arthroscopic surgery.

Prospect Ryan Sprock

In return, the Blue Jays receive Ryan Sprock, a prospect selected by the Twins in the eighth round of the 2025 draft. Sprock, a collegiate prospect, has played in the Twins’ minor-league system at the Single-A and High-A levels.

Sprock has demonstrated versatility, playing at third base, catcher, and in the outfield. In 67 games, primarily with the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels in Single-A, he has a .297 batting average with an .855 OPS, five home runs, and 14 stolen bases. He is a native of Morristown, New Jersey, and played three years of collegiate baseball at Elon University.

Sprock is considered a prospect with an upward trajectory. He was recently ranked No. 31 in the Twins’ system by FanGraphs, receiving a 40 Future Value grade. He is relatively new to catching but has adapted well to the position. In 65 games for the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels this season, Sprock hit .306 with a 144 wRC+, earning Florida State League Player of the Month honors for June and a subsequent promotion to High-A.

The Blue Jays’ decision to trade Nance, despite his effectiveness, may be influenced by his position on the bullpen depth chart and his lack of minor league options. His average leverage index when entering games is the lowest among current roster members, suggesting he is rarely used in high-leverage situations by manager John Schneider. The team could have faced a situation where they might have had to part with Nance for a lesser return if they added more relievers before the trade deadline. The acquisition of Sprock provides the Blue Jays with a promising young catcher.

The Twins, despite their bullpen challenges, have been performing well recently, sitting two games behind the White Sox and Guardians in the AL Central and one game back of the third Wild Card spot. This early trade suggests an effort to position themselves for further acquisitions later in the season, while the international bonus pool space offers flexibility. The trade was announced on Friday.

Source: sportsnet.ca

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The Vancouver Canucks have announced updates to their coaching staff, finalizing the group under new head coach Manny Malhotra. Ryan Mougenel, Jordan Smith, and Jason Krog have been named Assistant Coaches, while Andrew Shaw will serve as Assistant to the Video Coach.

General Manager Ryan Johnson emphasized the importance of assembling a quality coaching staff. He stated that the goal was to find individuals who are good teachers with intelligent hockey minds, capable of building a solid foundation, connecting with both veteran and younger players, and implementing Malhotra’s desired system and style of play. Johnson expressed excitement about welcoming Mougenel, Smith, and Shaw to Vancouver, and satisfaction with Krog’s promotion.

New Assistant Coaches Bring Diverse Experience

Ryan Mougenel joins the Canucks after eight seasons with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League (AHL), including the last five as head coach. He was recently recognized with the Louis A.R. Pieri Memorial Award as the AHL Coach of the Year. During his tenure as head coach in Providence, Mougenel guided the Bruins to the Macgregor Kilpatrick Trophy with a record of 54-16-2-0 (110 points) in the most recent season, which was the fourth-highest points percentage in AHL history at .764. He was promoted to head coach on August 13, 2021, and compiled a record of 217-103-26-14 (.658) over the last five years, which was the best mark in the AHL during that period. Mougenel has coached a total of 13 seasons in the AHL, having previously served as an assistant in Hershey (2013-14), Worcester (2014-15), San Jose (2015-18), and Providence (2018-21).

Before his time in Providence, Mougenel spent four seasons within the San Jose Sharks organization, working as an Assistant Coach for the San Jose Barracuda (three seasons) and Worcester Sharks (one season). He also had one season with the Hershey Bears. His coaching career also includes eight seasons in the ECHL, initially as an Assistant Coach with the Fresno Falcons, followed by a dual role as Head Coach and General Manager for the Las Vegas Wranglers.

Prior to coaching, Mougenel played professional hockey for six seasons across the ECHL, AHL, and International Hockey League (IHL). He recorded 105 points (46-59-105) and 271 penalty minutes in 180 career ECHL games, winning the Kelly Cup with the Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies in 2002-03. He also played in 20 AHL games, scoring one goal and accumulating two penalty minutes, and in 95 IHL games, where he registered 25 points (9-16-25) and 106 penalty minutes.

Jordan Smith spent the past two seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Abbotsford Canucks (AHL), where he contributed to the team’s Calder Cup victory in 2024-25. Before joining Abbotsford, he spent two seasons with the Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL). Smith’s coaching background also includes five seasons as an Associate Coach in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), split between the Soo Greyhounds and Sudbury Wolves. He was also the Head Coach of the Soo Thunderbirds of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL) from 2013-14 to 2016-17, where he was named the NOJHL Coach of the Year for two consecutive seasons (2013-14 and 2014-15) and led the Thunderbirds to an NOJHL Championship in 2015-16.

As a player, Smith played 60 career AHL games over two seasons with the Cincinnati Mighty Ducks and Portland Pirates, accumulating 15 points (6-9-15) and 164 penalty minutes. He also played parts of four seasons in the OHL with the Soo Greyhounds, recording 68 points (13-55-68) and 398 penalty minutes in 211 games. He was selected by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in the second round, 39th overall, in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

Jason Krog has served as a Skills & Skating Coach for both the Vancouver Canucks and Abbotsford Canucks for the last two seasons. Before his current role, Krog spent time with the Burnaby Winter Club as both a Head Coach and Assistant Coach from 2021 to 2024, and as a Hockey Advisor to Simon Fraser University during the 2023-24 season.

Krog had an 18-season professional playing career after being signed as an undrafted free agent by the New York Islanders on May 14, 1999. He played parts of nine seasons in the NHL with the Islanders, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, Atlanta Thrashers, New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks, tallying 59 points (22-37-59) and 46 penalty minutes in 202 career games. He also played parts of nine seasons in the AHL with teams including the Lowell Lock Monsters, Providence Bruins, Springfield Falcons, Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Cincinnati Mighty Ducks, Chicago Wolves, and Manitoba Moose. In 535 career AHL games, Krog recorded 598 points (190-408-598) and 191 penalty minutes, winning the Les Cunningham Award as the AHL’s Most Valuable Player, the Jack A. Butterfield Trophy as AHL Playoff MVP, and the Calder Cup in 2007-08 with Chicago.

Andrew Shaw spent the previous two seasons with the Abbotsford Canucks as the team’s Video Coach, also contributing to their Calder Cup win in 2024-25. Before his time in Abbotsford, Shaw spent parts of five seasons with the Chilliwack Chiefs and Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). He held roles as Video Coach, Assistant Coach, and Associate Coach with Chilliwack, and Associate Coach with Prince George.

Shaw’s playing career included two seasons in junior hockey, appearing in 20 games with the Nipawin Hawks of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) and 71 games with the Castlegar Rebels of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL), where he recorded 55 points (17-38-55). He also played one season at the University of the Fraser Valley (British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League), scoring 22 points (7-15-22) in 20 games.

Coaching Staff for 2026-27 Season

The full coaching staff for the Vancouver Canucks for the 2026-27 season includes:

• Manny Malhotra, Head Coach
• Ryan Mougenel, Assistant Coach
• Jordan Smith, Assistant Coach
• Jason Krog, Assistant Coach
• Marko Torenius, Goaltending Coach
• Ian Beckenstein, Video Coach
• Andrew Shaw, Assistant to the Video Coach

Former Assistant to the Video Coach Evan Mathias is no longer with the organization. The club thanked Mathias for his contributions.

The appointments were announced on July 10, 2026.

Source: nhl.com

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Haaland’s Rise to Global Stardom

Erling Haaland, the Manchester City forward, has seen his global appeal significantly increase during the current World Cup. His performance, including a match-winning brace against Brazil in the last 16, has been a key factor in Norway reaching the quarter-finals. This marks Norway’s first appearance in the tournament since 1998. Haaland’s seven goals place him among the top scorers, trailing only Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.

Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Haaland has also become a prominent personality of the tournament. He is described as a self-deprecating and smiling figure, often orchestrating post-match celebrations. An example of his lighthearted approach was seen after Norway’s victory over Brazil, where he responded to Wayne Rooney’s punditry promise by stating his anticipation to see Rooney fulfil it.

Haaland’s impact extends beyond the pitch, with his commercial strategy also contributing to his rising popularity. He launched a YouTube channel last September, offering a playful look into his life outside of football. This platform, along with his social media presence, provides a glimpse into his idiosyncratic personality, which has resonated with a broad audience, including those new to football.

A Unique Blend of Professionalism and Personality

Psychology professor Geir Jordet from the Norwegian School of Sport Science highlights Haaland’s unique ability to combine professionalism with a relaxed and fun demeanour. Jordet notes Haaland’s single-minded focus on preparation and goal-scoring, alongside his genuine joy when teammates score. This blend of intense dedication and team-oriented happiness is seen as a rare quality among elite athletes.

Hakon Grottland, head of player development for Norway’s national association, recalls a video from Haaland’s youth showing him as a 16-year-old with wayward shots. Grottland suggests that Haaland’s early struggles and dedication to training may have contributed to his development into a top striker. This narrative of overcoming early challenges to achieve greatness is seen as an inspiration for young athletes in Norway.

Haaland’s physical transformation also played a role in his development. His elder brother, Astor, noted that Haaland grew significantly in a single year, gaining 20 centimetres in height and 20 kilograms in weight. Despite his imposing physical presence now, youth coaches remember him as one of the smaller players, which forced him to develop smart movement and spatial awareness on the field.

His confidence, however, appears to have been present from a young age. Brede Hangeland, former Norway captain and current assistant coach, remembers Haaland, then 14, confidently stating his ambition to become the best forward in the world. This early self-belief, combined with his later physical development and continuous training, has shaped him into the player he is today.

Redefining Sports Celebrity

Haaland is seen as redefining the landscape of sports celebrity. In an era where many athletic icons maintain a remote public image, Haaland engages directly with his audience through social media. His willingness to answer questions with a sense of bafflement and his uninhibited, almost goofy, online presence contrasts with the more curated personas of other famous athletes.

His approach to celebrity, characterized by a relaxed and fun attitude, has resonated with a wide audience, including those who may not typically follow football. This authenticity, combined with his exceptional talent, has made him a ubiquitous figure on social media. His ability to be himself, even in the high-pressure environment of professional sports, is seen as a refreshing change.

Haaland’s success and public persona challenge the notion that greatness must be accompanied by constant seriousness or suffering. His combination of fierce competitiveness on the field and joyful, lighthearted behaviour off it suggests that these qualities are not mutually exclusive. This approach is exemplified by his post-match celebrations and his online interactions, which often feature humour and self-deprecation.

Norway’s national team, with Haaland as a key player, is set to play England in the quarter-finals on Saturday.

Source: nytimes.com

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The Edmonton Elks returned to winning form on Thursday, defeating the Ottawa Redblacks 40-17. Running back Justin Rankin played a significant role in the victory, scoring three touchdowns for the Elks. This win moves Edmonton ahead in the West Division standings.

Rankin recorded 107 yards on 14 carries, contributing two touchdowns on the ground. He also added three receptions for 43 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Cody Fajardo completed 19 of 24 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns.

Offensive Performance and Adaptations

Fajardo emphasized the team’s return to their preferred style of play, which involves running the ball and quick passes. He noted that the Redblacks’ defence presented challenges, but the Elks adapted effectively. Fajardo expressed pride in the offence’s strong finish.

Elks head coach Mark Kilam highlighted the team’s dedication in practice following their previous loss to the B.C. Lions. He commended the players for their perseverance, especially during a challenging third quarter where the team initially struggled to gain first downs.

The Elks opened the scoring with Rankin’s 19-yard touchdown run. Later in the second quarter, Elks kicker Vincent Blanchard made a field goal. Ottawa managed to score with a one-yard plunge from backup quarterback Bryson Barnes, bringing the score to 10-7. Edmonton then added two more field goals from Blanchard before halftime, establishing a 16-7 lead.

In the third quarter, Ottawa narrowed the deficit when quarterback Jake Maier connected with Ayden Eberhardt for a 21-yard touchdown pass. Fajardo responded in the fourth quarter with a four-yard touchdown pass to Kaion Julien-Grant. Ottawa’s Brett Lauther then kicked a field goal to make the score 23-17.

Rankin continued to make an impact in the fourth quarter, catching a pass from Fajardo and weaving 33 yards for another major. Maier was intercepted for the third time in Edmonton territory by Chelen Garnes, which led to another Rankin touchdown on a 31-yard run. Maier was intercepted a fourth time by Kordell Jackson, setting up an 11-yard field goal by Blanchard.

Maier acknowledged that the Redblacks failed to make enough plays in the fourth quarter, leading to desperate decisions that did not go their way. The Redblacks are still seeking their first win of the season and currently hold an 0-5 record.

Team Standings and Upcoming Games

The Elks, who have not reached the playoffs since 2019, now have a 4-1 record, placing them first in the West Division. This game marked their second home game of the 2026 season at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium. The team has a strong record in their recent home games, winning five of their last six at the stadium since the 2025 season.

The Elks had previously faced the Redblacks in the opening week of the 2026 CFL season, securing a 29-21 victory at TD Place on June 6. Edmonton has won their last three encounters with Ottawa, including two wins in 2025. Kilam noted the quick turnaround between games, with only four days separating this match from their previous one against the Lions. He expressed confidence in his team’s leadership to prepare the players both mentally and physically.

Rookie linebacker Dariel Djabome, drafted third overall in the 2026 CFL Draft, made his second career CFL start in this game. In his first start, he tied for the team lead with seven defensive tackles and intercepted Nathan Rourke. Djabome, from Longueuil, Quebec, emphasized his focus on team performance over personal accolades.

Next, the Elks will host the B.C. Lions next Friday. The Redblacks are scheduled to welcome the Winnipeg Blue Bombers next Sunday.

Source: sportsnet.ca

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