The Miami Heat (25-28) return from the All-Star break looking to build momentum against the Toronto Raptors (17-38). Miami holds a 2-1 record against Toronto this season, averaging 117 PPG in those matchups. However, their one loss came when they allowed 68 points in the paint and let RJ Barrett explode for 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. To secure a third win over the Raptors, the Heat must focus on these three key areas:
1. Bam Adebayo Must Set the Tone in the Paint
When Bam Adebayo is aggressive, the Heat control the game. In Miami’s two wins over Toronto, he dominated inside:
Toronto struggles defensively, ranking 25th in opponent points per game, but they’re tied with Miami for 12th in three-point defense (35.7% allowed). That means Miami can’t simply rely on outside shooting—they must attack the interior.
With Jakob Poeltl questionable, Toronto could be vulnerable in the paint. Adebayo needs to be assertive early, and Miami should look to get downhill with Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, and Andrew Wiggins (if available) attacking mismatches.
2. Win the Turnover & Rebounding Battles
The Heat have been most successful against Toronto when controlling possessions. The Raptors are an inconsistent offensive team and forcing them into mistakes will be key. Miami needs to be disciplined in transition defense while taking care of the ball themselves to avoid giving up easy points.
Rebounding is just as important. The Raptors have length and athleticism, and second-chance points could be a deciding factor. Miami must gang rebound, especially with Toronto being aggressive on the glass. If the Heat secure defensive rebounds and push the pace, they can dictate the tempo instead of letting the Raptors control the game physically.
Miami has seen numerous games get away from them this season and these two areas will be crucial, not only in their first game back from break, but the rest of the season.
RJ Barrett torched Miami in their lone loss, putting up 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Heat cannot let him get comfortable again. This is where Andrew Wiggins and Davion Mitchell—if available—could make an impact.
Wiggins provides length and defensive versatility, making him a strong option to shadow Barrett and disrupt his rhythm.
Mitchell brings elite on-ball defense, which can help slow down Toronto’s backcourt and make it harder for Barrett to get easy looks.
If Miami’s perimeter defense holds up and they don’t allow Barrett to take over, the Raptors will have to look to their secondary options (Scottie Barnes, Gradey Dick), and ultimately struggle to keep up offensively.
Extra Notes
Davion Mitchell’s first game vs former team
Miami is 64-43 all time against Toronto in the regular season
Raptors Injuries: Brandon Ingram: out (ankle), P.J. Tucker: out (personal), Jakob Poeltl: day to day (hip).
Heat Injuries: Dru Smith: out for season (achilles), Terry Rozier: day to day (illness), Kevin Love: day to day (personal), Andrew Wiggins: day to day (illness), Bam Adebayo: day to day (knee).
Final Thoughts
Miami has the blueprint to beat Toronto but must stay disciplined defensively, win the possession battle, and attack the paint to secure a win. If Adebayo is aggressive, the Heat limit turnovers and second-chance points, and Wiggins/Mitchell help slow down Barrett, Miami should come out of Toronto with a much-needed victory.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Davion-Mitchell.jpg234334Austin Dobbinshttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAustin Dobbins2025-02-20 12:11:322025-02-20 14:09:59Miami Heat Keys to Victory vs. Toronto Raptors
Miami Marlins 2025 Spring Training officially opened up last Wednesday, February 12th when pitchers and catchers flock to Jupiter as the team gathered to prepare for their 32nd season. In the year between Spring Training 2024 and Spring Training 2025, quite a bit had changed for the Miami Marlins, franchise stalwarts Luis Arraez and Jazz Chisholm, Jr. were sent away in the middle of the 2024 season as the Marlins failed to build off of their 2023 postseason berth, ace starter Sandy Alcantara missed the 2024 season as he recovered from Tommy John surgery, and rising star left hander Jesus Luzardo was dealt in the offseason to the division rival Philadelphia Phillies. Indeed, the names on the back of the jerseys this year may as well be name tags for fans as they acquaint themselves to the many new faces showing up at Marlins camp, among them new manager Clayton McCollough, who came over from the Dodgers organization in the offseason.
This year offers a new start for the team, with a new leader in the clubhouse and reworked young core, many of whom were acquired in the process of last year’s fire sale by Bendix and company. The Marlins will come into Spring Training this season with more questions than answers, and more possibilities for the vision of what the final 26-man roster may look like by the end of camp, with that said, here are my (mostly wrong) predictions on what the final roster may look like come Opening Day 2025.
First things first, let’s take a look at the 65 men the Marlins are bringing into camp this year:
So, without further adieu, let’s get into the work of parsing that 65-man roster into a 26-man roster, starting with the starting rotation:
Now, this rotation looks much different than even would have been predicted a month and a half ago, as the Marlins dealt Jesus Luzardo in late December, and shortly after, it was revealed that fellow lefty Braxton Garrett had elbow surgery in December that would end up sidelining him for the 2025 season. The rotation coming into the season will still largely be a story of long awaited returns, as ace Sandy Alcantara should be all systems go following a 2024 season that wasn’t for him due to an elbow surgery of his own in October of 2023. Additionally, left hander Ryan Weathers will be back to start the 2025 season as the team’s likely number two starter, at least until 21-year-old phenom Eury Perez makes his return mid-season this year. The remainder of the rotation would consist of Edward Cabrera, Max Meyer and veteran signing Cal Quantrill, two pitchers who have each been hailed prospects, but have yet to find consistent success at the MLB level, and a third who has had legitimate success, but after a couple of down seasons, is looking to regain form. Cabrera, who projects to enter the 2025 season as the team’s third starter, will look to return to his 2022 form (14 GS, 6-4, 3.01 ERA) after a couple of disappointing seasons in 2023 and 2024. Meyer and Quantrill will round out the rotation, with Meyer looking to find his footing at the Major League level. The Marlins young righty had a rocky season in 2024 as he struggled to the tune of a 5.68 ERA in 11 starts coming off Tommy John surgery. Quantrill, meanwhile, was signed on the first day of camp and will look to bring a veteran presence to the back end of the rotation, it’s been an up and down stretch for Quantrill throughout his MLB career to this point, as from 2020-22, Mazur posted a 25-8 record with a 3.08 ERA over 90 appearances, 57 of which being starts. In 2023-24, however, Quantrill posted a 12-18 record with a 5.08 ERA, he will look to regain form in 2025 as he helps hold down the fort for Eury Perez and other names such as Noble Meyer and Thomas White.
Other Names to watch: Adam Mazur, Bellozo, Robby Snelling, Patrick Monteverde, Dax Fulton
Bullpen: Valente Bellozo, Anthony Bender, Andrew Nardi, Declan Cronin, Jesus Tinoco, Anthony Veneziano, Calvin Faucher, Luarbert Arias
The Bullpen for the Marlins headed into 2025 is as big a question mark as there is on the roster (of which there are plenty). Righty Declan Cronin survived a trade deadline in which his services were reportedly in high demand, Calvin Faucher looks to take on the closer role headed into 2025 as he locked down 6 saves down the stretch in 2024 following the trade of Tanner Scott, many of the others projected into the bullpen like Jesus Tinoco and Anthony Veneziano were both claimed off of waivers after the deadline and pitched well enough to get a regular spot in the ‘pen headed into 2025. Veterans Andrew Nardi and Anthony Bender hope to bounce back strong following a pair of underwhelming seasons for pitchers who have had success in a middle relief role for the fish, meanwhile the bullpen will be rounded out by Valente Bellozo and Laurbert Arias, the former of which was a starter down the stretch for the Marlins and represented himself well, however his lack of prospect pedigree and elite stuff will likely force him into a long relief role. The latter, Luarbert Arias could be considered somewhat of the surprise of this group, as he will likely make his MLB debut in 2025 following an impressive stretch in the minors that saw him post a 3.12 ERA and 10.9 K/9 over six minor league seasons.
Other names to watch: Max Meyer, Edward Cabrera, Xzavion Curry, Connor Gillespie, George Soriano, Adam Mazur
Catchers: Nick Fortes, Liam Hicks
At Catcher, the Miami Marlins will go into the 2025 season with veteran catcher Nick Fortes taking the bulk of work for the team. Fortes is one of the longest tenured players on this very young team, having been with the team since 2021. While he doesn’t bring a big bat to the table, what Fortes does bring, is a steady hand to a young rotation that will need that veteran calm that Fortes can provide. Enter Liam Hicks, the Marlins rule 5 draft pick from the Brewers organization, Hicks brings the Marlins not only a younger option, but one with a different kind of skill set, one that is much more offensively oriented. The 25-year-old catcher has eye-popping discipline skills at the plate, having posted a .405 on base percentage over four minor league seasons, and a .482 on base clip in two seasons at Arkansas St. While Agustin Ramirez will look to push Hicks for the backup catcher job, the Marlins are likely to be patient with the 22-year-old prospect, making it likely that Hicks wins the battle out of camp.
Other Players to watch: Joe Mack, Agustin Ramirez
First Base: Jonah Bride, Matt Mervis
Jonah Bride has been one of the crown jewel signings of the Bendix era, as odd as that may sound, it’s unequivocally true. Bride was signed in the offseason prior to 2024 as a bargain bin FA and ended up posting an .818 OPS over 71 games for the Marlins last season. Matt Mervis will look to be another Bendix bargain boom, as he was traded in the offseason for utility man Vidal Brujan, who worked out a…little less well. Prior to the 2023 season, Mervis was universally ranked as a top 10 prospect in the Cubs system, and it’s easy to see why, as Mervis has a career .268/.361/.508 slash line with 82 homers across 391 minor league games. As a left handed batter, Mervis will likely start the season in a platoon with the right handed Bride, who should start the season as the primary starter at the corner on the right side of the infield.
Other names to watch: Deyvison De Los Santos, Agustin Ramirez, Troy Johnston, Nathan Martorella
Second Base: Otto Lopez, Javier Sanoja
The Marlins at second base will trot out another reclamation project in the mold of Jonah Bride, as Otto Lopez looks to fill up the right half of the Marlins’ middle infield. Lopez was another bright spot in an otherwise bleak season for the fish, posting a WAR of 2.8 over 117 games, playing upper tier defense at second, while providing a decent bat at the position. Javier Sanoja, meanwhile, will likely be backing up Lopez, and Xavier Edwards, for that matter. The Marlins middle infield prospect received his first cup of coffee in the bigs at the end of 2024, as he hit .229 in 15 games for the Marlins. Sanoja brings a much better hit tool than that average may belie, as he hit .286 and .292 in 2023 and ‘24 as he shot up the system starting ‘23 at single A Jupiter, and finished last season at triple A Jacksonville. Sanoja also brings a solid eye at the dish, having 88 walks to 78 strikeouts in those seasons as well. He also looks to provide the Marlins solid defense up the middle and another speed threat on the base paths.
Other names to watch: Max Acosta, Jared Serna
Shortstop: Xavier Edwards, Javier Sanoja
At short, the Marlins will line up a player who looks to be one of the foundational pieces of this rebuild in Xavier Edwards. Edwards burst onto the scene last season for the Marlins following a start to the season that was set back due to a bacterial infection in his foot, Edwards took the opportunity when he did finally get it and did not look back as he slashed .328/.397/.423 and swiped 31 bags in 70 MLB games last season. Though there are questions about his ability to field his position due to below average arm strength, Edwards enters 2025 as the unquestioned starter at shortstop. Backing up Edwards once again looks to be the aforementioned Sanoja.
Other names to watch: Jared Serna, Max Acosta
Third Base: Connor Norby, Dane Myers
If Jonah Bride is the crown jewel diamond in the rough for Bendix in his time as Marlins Prez, then third baseman Connor Norby is certainly the crown jewel trade acquisition of his tenure. Acquired at the trade deadline along with Kyle Stowers from Baltimore for embattled starter Trevor Rogers, Norby started his Marlins stint at triple A Jacksonville. It wasn’t long, however, until Norby was up in the bigs and making an impact. Though he had cooled down at the end of the season, Norby still managed to put together pretty impressive production in 36 games, as he posted a .760 OPS and clubbed seven homers across 36 games for the Marlins post-deadline, all while learning a new position. Norby joins Edwards to form a left side of the infield that Marlins brass hopes to anchor the Marlins core for years to come. Behind Norby, the Marlins could use players such as Dane Myers, more on him to come shortly.
Other names to watch: Eric Wagaman, Jacob Berry
Outfielders: Jesus Sanchez, Dane Myers, Kyle Stowers, Griffin Conine, Derek Hill
In the outfield, Jesus Sanchez will be the veteran (starter) in the clubhouse, the corner outfielder will enter his age-27 season looking to finally put all of his tantalizing tools together and realize his potential following a couple of up and down campaigns in 2023 and ‘24. Center field looks to be manned by a two man platoon of Dane Myers and Kyle Stowers, a couple of players who have showed flashes of potential, but have ultimately failed to string together significant stretches of consistency, with Stowers possessing impressive power tempered by a 35.5% K rate, and Myers showing intriguing five tool potential across 44 games tempered by…well, his temper, as his season was cut short in 2024 when he kicked a clubhouse door in Cincinnati, breaking his ankle. In left field, Griffin Conine will seemingly have the inside track to the lion’s share of the starts, as the 27-year-old impressed in his brief stint at the major league level. Derek Hill rounds out the group as a journeyman who has the versatility to play all three outfield spots, as he played well enough to garner another look in a reserve role after being claimed off waivers from the Rangers last August.
Other players to watch: Victor Mesa, Jr. , Troy Johnston, Alberto Almora, Jr., Jacob Berry
*****
For more Miami Dolphins and Miami Marlins coverage, follow @EricWiedeke on Twitter.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot_17-2-2025_9502_docs.google.com_.jpeg422760Eric Wiedekehttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgEric Wiedeke2025-02-17 09:59:332025-02-17 10:00:12Predicting the Marlins Final 26-Man Roster as the Team Opens Camp
We knew Canada-USA would be nothing short of cinema. But this game, it was Oscar worthy.
Before the game started, the Star-Spangled Banner was booed in its entirety by a large portion of a majority Canadian crowd at the Bell Centre. That display wasn’t much a surprise as the U.S. anthem was booed Thursday night when the Americans played Finland in Montreal.
Now it’s time to play hockey… right?
On the opening face-off, Canada’s Brandon Hagel and American Matthew Tkachuk dropped the gloves, firing up the benches and the 20,000-plus in the stands.
Ok so now we can play… Sam Bennett (CANADA) and Brady Tkachuk (USA) decide to dance on the very next drop of the puck.
“I had a feeling after Matthew went,” Bennett said when asked if he was expecting to fight. “The Brady came over to me. Yeah, I just feel like it was waiting to happen.”
Two fights out of the way, the crowd is juiced, the boys are finally ready to get the game going.
The Americans got a shot on Jordan Binnington’s goal, and crashed the net a little too hard for Canada’s liking. A scrum ensued and all of a sudden, you guessed it, Colton Parayko (CANADA) and J.T. Miller (USA) started to dance.
Within nine seconds of game-time there were three fights.
Brady said post game that himself, Matthew and Miller had a group chat where the three decided they would liven things up during the game.
“I think Matthew’s fight to start off was such an energy boost,” Brady said of his brother’s tilt. “I think I was more excited — more nervous than my own, and then Milsy (Miller) to cap it off… It was a pretty awesome experience.”
I thought the players weren’t going to take this “glorified All-Star” game seriously… ya right.
Canadian forward Connor McDavid blew the roof off the Bell Centre, beating Connor Hellebuyck with a backhand shot 5:31 into the game after he bursted through the neutral zone to get in alone on the American goalie.
The crowd was rocking after the home nation got on the board first, but that would be the final time the Canadian crowd would see their team score.
Jake Guenztel tied the game 10:15 into the first after slipping a shot from the circle five-hole on Binnington.
Dylan Larkin got the Americans ahead 13:33 into the second after scoring the eventual game winning goal. Canadian captain Sidney Crosby’s pass was picked off in the U.S. zone by Matt Boldy, who hit Larkin in transition. The play resulted in Larkin burying a shot blocker side to put the Americans up 2-1.
Canada didn’t have many answers for the American’s defensive pressure. Team USA clogged the neutral zone, making it hard for Canada’s speedy forwards to generate any momentum.
Even when the Canadians had good looks at goal, they were shut down by the two-time Vezina winner, Hellebuyck, who finished the game with 25 saves.
“For the most part I thought we did a good job of getting pucks in there and trying to get tips,” said Crosby when asked if the Canadians were making too many passess. “We’ll have to look at it and see if there were opportunities to shoot more. It didn’t feel like that a whole lot — if there were maybe a couple times.
“We got a lot of skill here and guys that are capable of making those kinds of plays. Obviously we want to get pucks to the net but guys have to trust their instincts too.”
With the win, Team USA can take its Monday meeting vs the Swedes easy as they’ve already punched their ticket to the championship game in Boston. That means there’s no risk in keeping Matthew Tkachuk, who sustained a lower-body injury in the win, out of the line up.
The U.S. star downplayed the injury which kept him on the American bench for the final 12:36 of Saturday’s game.
“I feel good,” he said postgame. “Much better after a win.”
USA head coach Mike Sullivan wasn’t as laid back as Tkachuk when asked about the forward’s status going forward.
“He’s being evaluated by our doctors, that’s all I can offer you,” said Sullivan after confirming Tkachuk sustained the lower-body injury. “We’ll make decisions that we think is best for Matthew and is best for our team. Right now I don’t have a lot of information to go on so it’s hard for me to give you more.”
Unlike the Americans, Monday is a must-win game for Canada, otherwise their tournament is done. A regulation win against Finland set up what will be a highly anticipated rematch against the Americans in the championship game.
“In this tournament, all we’ve got to do is win another game and we get them again,” Bennett spoke of a potential rematch with the Americans.
“We just got to play our game,” he added when asked about Monday’s matchup vs. the Finns. “It’s a do or die game. There’s not going to be any lack of intensity in that one.”
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/canada-usa.png15062164Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-16 10:59:092025-02-16 20:10:48Canada-USA 4 Nations Showdown Lived up to the Hype
MONTREAL — Get excited, its rivalry day at the Bell Centre.
No, the Habs aren’t playing the Bruins or Leafs. We have a 4 Nations doubleheader on the slate.
Before the hockey world gives its undivided attention to Saturday night’s much anticipated meeting between Canada and the Americans, the day begins with a Northern European showdown.
Finland.
Sweden.
Two nations whose love for the game rivals even that of the United States and Canada. As does their desire to beat each other.
“It’s a brotherly kind of love and hate relationship that goes back a long time,” Sweden head coach Sam Hallam said of the rivalry.
“I don’t think either team, either country, wants to lose,” said Finnish forward Anton Lundell. “If you want to win [against] one opponent, you want to win [against] Sweden for sure. There’s always been that little spark between us.”
Lundell and his Finnish Florida Panthers teammates: Aleksander Barkov, Eetu Luostarinen and Niko Mikkola, will face fellow Panther, Swedish defenseman Gustav Forsling, when the teams take the ice Saturday afternoon.
“It’s huge,” Forsling said ahead of Saturday’s game. “We’ve got a lot of history with the Finns. Growing up we were playing against Finland a lot in the junior teams. It’s going to be a big game.”
Lundell added: “It’s always good games against Sweden. It’s going to be a pretty physical game, (a) hard game, with a lot of pace and a lot of skill. It means a lot to us and every game in this tournament is big for us.”
As for his favorite Sweden-Finland moment, Lundell said there are too many to single out one.
Both sides lost their opening match of the tournament. The Swedes fell just short in overtime to the Canadians, while Finland could only contain an explosive American offense for so long, falling 6-1.
The best hockey players in the world representing their countries — this tournament has provided excitement not only hockey fans have yearned for, but the players themselves.
“I think this tournament is great for the game of hockey,” Sweden captain Victor Hedman said. “[We’re] super excited to be a part of it and playing against our arch rival.
Canada and the United States have garnered the majority of attention for this tournament — with on-ice star power and off-ice politics leading the way — but there’s plenty to be desired from the Swedes and Finns contest.
Both teams are filled with stars in their own right. Cup champions, future Hall of Famers, NHL captains. There’s undoubtedly been a buzz within the Bell centre’s media room leading up to the game.
“I think the rivalry comes from obviously the borders being close, and just the history between Sweden and Finland in different kinds of sports,” Sweden captain Victor Hedman said. “It’s exciting for us.”
Finland sits at the bottom of the standings after its regulation loss to the Americans on Thursday. Sweden is third, gaining a point after forcing the Canadians to Wednesday in the tournament opener.
Puck drop for Sweden-Finland is set for 1 ET at the Bell Centre in Montreal.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/BarkovSuomi.jpg8941206Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-15 11:35:522025-02-15 11:39:51‘I Don’t Think either Team, either Country, Wants to Lose’: Sweden and Finland Lead off 4 Nations Rivalry Day Doubleheader
Canada appears to be making a tactical change ahead of their Saturday night matchup against the United States.
There’s sure to be some bite when the two North American rivals meet for the first time in a best-on-best format since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey — where Canada won 4-2.
In anticipation of a heavy game, it looks like forward Sam Bennett will draw into the lineup for the Canadians after being a healthy scratch in Canada’s 4-3 overtime win over Sweden on Wednesday night.
Bennett was slotted alongside Seth Jarvis and Brad Marchand — who he is well acquainted with after the past two Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins playoff series — during Canada’s Friday practice. Travis Konecny, who played just 10:20 in Canada’s first game, was the odd-forward out.
“We both like to play a physical, intense game’,” Bennett spoke about being on a line with Marchand. “I’m sure we’re going to be bringing it tomorrow night. [I’m] excited to get to play with him finally.”
In his 4 Nations debut, Bennett will face off against his usual Panthers linemate and close friend, team USA’s Matthew Tkachuk.
Don’t expect either player to ease up if they match up against each other.
“We’re great friends but [we’re also] both such hard competitors,” Bennett told me last week when asked about playing against Tkachuk at the 4 Nations. I think we can go at it pretty good on the ice and it’s not going to affect our friendship”
“I don’t expect him to go easy on me and I’m definitely not going to go easy on him.It’s going to be fun.
This will be just the second game of the tournament for both teams, but there’s championship implications already at stake.
After picking up three points in a 6-1 win over Finland on Thursday, the Americans can punch their ticket to the final in Boston with a regulation win over the Canadians.
Canada failed to get three points against the Swedes as their victory came in overtime, so they can’t clinch a spot in the championship yet regardless of what happens against the Americans.
Puck drop will be 8 P.M. ET on Saturday at the Bell Centre in Montreal.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Bennett-1.jpg8491206Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-14 13:58:022025-02-14 14:02:31Bennett Expected to Play for Canada vs. United States
MONTREAL — Day two of the 4 Nations Face-Off was another entertaining night of hockey, at least if you were rooting for the United States.
Following a four-goal third period, the Americans made its mark on the tournament, defeating Finland 6-1.
The Tkachuk brothers, Matthew and Brady, put on a show, scoring two goals a piece to lead the Americans to victory. Matthew’s three point night (2G, 1A) earned him player of the game honors.
The final score was not indicative of the entire game. After 40 minutes, the Finns were on par with the Americans, trailing just one goal heading into the third.
Unfortunately for Finland, team USA didn’t look back, scoring twice 26 seconds into the final period.
“We felt good going into the third,” Finland’s captain Aleksander Barkov said. “They got the power-play goal there and then the next goal, next shift. We kind of didn’t push back anymore after that.”
Matthew Boldy and Jake Guentzel also scored for the Americans, who sit one point ahead of Canada for first-place in the tournament standings.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck stopped 20 of 21 shots faced, only conceding once after Finland’s Henri Jokiharju opened the scoring 7:31 into the game.
With a chance to clinch its spot, early, in the championship game, the Americans enter Saturday’s rivalry game against Canada high on confidence.
“I think it’s going to be the biggest game that I’ve ever played in my career,” Brady Tkachuk said of the USA’s matchup against Canada. “I’m really looking forward to that. There’s a big buildup to it. US vs Canada, it’s bigger than just the guys on the ice, it’s so many people past, present and future down the road.”
Need a guy? Call a Panther
Whether it’s the power-play or penalty kill, Aleksander Barkov, Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen and Niko Mikkola are regulars for the Florida Panthers special teams.
Knowing those four are trusted by the defending Stanley Cup champions in special teams situations, Finland head coach Antti Pennanen didn’t try to break what works.
Barkov manned the point on Finland’s top power-play unit — a group that featured five forwards and no defenseman.
Lundell centered the other Finnish power-play group, playing in the bumper position.
As for the penalty kill, all four of the Panthers’ Finns were involved when the “The Lions” were down a man.
Finland’s PK had a busy night trying to kill off four American power-plays.
They were successful on the first two attempts, but 15 seconds into third — after the Americans called a Panther — Matthew Tkachuk roofed a point shot past Juuse Saros to put the United States up 3-1.
Matthew rubbed salt in the wound, scoring one more power-play goal 11:13 into the third to put the United States up 6-1.
The players are taking the game seriously
Leading up to the tournament there was plenty of chatter that the players wouldn’t take the games seriously. Unsurprisingly, none of these comments came from the players.
2016 was the last time we’ve seen ‘best-on-best’ international hockey. It’s been over eight years since Canada won the most recent edition of the World Cup of Hockey.
To put the timeline into perspective, Finnish forward Anton Lundell was 14 years old the last time we’ve seen the best NHL players in the world play in an international competition. There wasn’t going to be anyone taking a shift off for this. Like the Canadians, and Swedes showed in the tournament opener, the Finns and Americans didn’t pull their punches.
The game was chippy from the jump, even more so than the Canada – Sweden contest.
Both sides were mucking it up after the whistle. If you were too close to the goalie, you were leaving with a glover in your face. If you had the puck on your stick too long, you were getting blown up.
The physicality was more similar to a playoff game than an NHL regular season game.
Why?
Because players take pride in playing for their country.
Feed the Tkachuks
If Team USA’s game plan was to “let the Tkachuk brothers run wild”, it was the correct decision.
Brady and Matthew scored two goals each and combined for five points on the night.
The United States did run away with the game in the third, but if it was not for the Tkachuk’s first contributions, Thursday could’ve been a different story.
Brady scored the USA’s first of the night, quickly tying the game after Finland jumped out to a one-goal lead. Matthew’s first tally came 15 seconds into the third, doubling the American’s lead after Finland kept it close for the first 40 minutes of the game.
“He was a beast,” Matthew said of Brady’s performance. “He made his presence known, especially from the start. That’s the way we play, that’s one of the reasons why we’re on the team.”
“You don’t come to these and change your game. You play to your identity — there’s a reason why you’re here… I thought he was a beast all night.
The brothers have dreamed of playing together for their country and in their first opportunity doing so, they delivered.
“I don’t really think it’s hit yet to be honest with you,” Brady said of playing with Matthew. “I just can only imagine how proud my parents, family and friends that have helped us along the way [are]. I know from my experience I was really excited for the tournament.”
“After a couple days this has been the best experience of my hockey life. I can’t really describe the excitement and joy to be able to play with him and be together every day. It’s been amazing.”
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Tkachuk-brothers-USA.jpg8711206Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-14 00:27:322025-02-14 08:49:21Tkachuk Brothers Lead Team USA to Victory Over Finland
MONTREAL –– Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov will have to temporarily put their friendship aside.
The superstar duo, who were instrumental in leading the Panthers to its first Stanley Cup in franchise history last year, find themselves on opposite sides of the ice in what has already proved to be an exciting 4 Nations tournament.
Tkachuk and team USA take on a Barkov captained Finnish squad at the Bell Centre on Thursday.
“Obviously I know him really well now,” Barkov said of Tkachuk. “But when the puck drops, it’s Finland against USA.
Tkachuk is the lone Panthers player representing the United States, but the same can’t be said for the Finns.
Including Barkov, Finland has four Panthers on its roster: defenseman Nikko Mikkola, and forwards Anton Lundell and Eetu Luostarinen.
Some friendly chirps have already been laid out before puck drop, but only time will tell if that carries over to the ice.
“We were joking just overall with all the [Panthers] guys in the tournament,” Lundell said when asked if there’s been any banter between the Panthers 4 Nations representatives. “I could see Barky going back and forth with [Tkachuk] a few times with some chirps.
On paper, Finland is an underdog in 4 Nations, largely because of its blueline that lost three players to injury before the teams arrived in Montreal. But as the Swedes showed on Wednesday — overcoming a two-goal deficit in the third to force overtime against Canada — this tournament is up for grabs.
Lundell and Luostarinen will look to lean on their chemistry from Florida when they take on the Americans. Finnish head coach Antti Pennanen opted to keep the two Stanley Cup champions together on a line.
Barkov leads the way on the top forward unit — next to Mikko Rantanen and Artturi Lehkonen — and will man the blueline on power play 1.
In addition to playing alongside Luostarinen, Lundell is expected too be on Finland’s second power play unit.
Unlike Finland, the Americans don’t have many doubters. It shouldn’t surprise anyone if they return home champions, top to bottom, they have the deepest team in the tournament.
However it’s easier said than done. The USA has long been searching for best-on-best international glory.
Despite the United States’ success at the junior level — winning the past two World Junior Championships and four of the past nine — victory at the senior level hasn’t been there.
Team USA hasn’t won an Olympic gold since 1980, and have failed to make the final in the past two NHL international tournaments, with their last win coming at the1996 World Cup of Hockey, with Keith Tkachuk — Matthew and Brady’s dad — a member of the squad.
Matthew Tkachuk will have a big role in trying to change that for the Americans.
The Panthers star is expected to play alongside Jack Eichel and Kyle Connor. Tkachuk will also feature on the Americans’ top power play unit.
Puck drop is 8 p.m. ET from the Bell Centre in Montreal.
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https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1626.jpg8161206Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-13 14:53:562025-02-13 15:04:44‘It’s Finland against USA’: Barkov Set For 4 Nations Matchup Against Tkachuk
F1 Esports is nowadays a significant aspect of the Formula 1 ecosystem. The lines between traditional motorsport and digital racing have blurred in the last couple of years. Fans are increasingly drawn to the excitement of competitive sim racing. This surge in popularity is due to several factors, including greater accessibility, technological advancements, and strategic partnerships that improve the overall experience for both players and spectators.
How It All Started in 2020
The 2020 pandemic served as a catalyst for F1 Esports. With traditional races on hold, virtual Grand Prix events filled the void for fans and drivers, including both real-world drivers and sim racing professionals. Stars like Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, and George Russell participated. This boosted viewership to over 30 million on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. The exposure introduced a wider audience to the potential of competitive sim racing.
All ten official Formula 1 teams now have dedicated esports divisions. This commitment attracts talented drivers and substantial investment. The F1 Sim Racing World Championship features a significant prize pool, with the upcoming season offering $750,000.
The F1 Sim Racing World Championship
The F1 Sim Racing World Championship is the premier esports competition for F1. It uses the F1 game franchise developed by Codemasters and published by EA Sports. It combines both real-world Formula 1 and the virtual racing community. This, of course, boosts fan engagement during the F1 offseason. The 2025 season marks the eighth year of this high-stakes competition.
The 2025 F1 Sim Racing World Championship promises intense competition. All ten F1 teams will compete across twelve rounds. The championship is structured around three major events spanning several days. The season begins on January 14 at Melbourne’s Albert Park Street Circuit. Subsequent events will take place in February and March, culminating in the crowning of both a Drivers’ Champion and a World Constructors’ Champion.
The races will be broadcast live on F1’s official YouTube, Twitch, and esports social media platforms.
The Impact of Different Streaming Platforms
Streaming platforms play a crucial role in the growing popularity of F1 Esports. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube provide accessible channels for fans to watch live races, access highlights, and interact with drivers. Many F1 drivers also stream their practice sessions and interact with fans directly. This direct engagement allows fans to connect with their favorite drivers on a personal level.
Despite a drop in viewership after the pandemic peak, F1 Esports remains a key part of Formula 1’s broader media strategy. The series is integrated into mainstream sports, with potential participation in events like the Olympic Esports Series. This integration could further expand its reach, connecting a new generation of fans to motorsport.
Several F1 Sim Racing teams have new drivers in their line-up for the upcoming season. Jarno Opmeer, a two-time champion, has moved to Red Bull. The competition features both seasoned veterans and promising rookies.
The F1 Esports scene has faced challenges, including fluctuating viewership and organizational changes. However, the core appeal of virtual racing remains strong. By focusing on accessibility, content, and strategic partnerships, F1 Esports is set for continued growth and increasing popularity in the years to come.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot_13-2-2025_94414_www.google.com_.jpeg361620Five Reasonshttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgFive Reasons2025-02-13 09:44:422025-02-13 09:44:42The Growing Popularity of F1 Esports
MONTREAL — Over 20,000 were in attendance at the Bell Centre on Wednesday night to watch a nail biting Canada and Sweden game to open the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.
If you only tuned in for the opening 20, you would think Canada ran away with the contest, but that was far from the case.
Sweden overcame a two-goal deficit in the third to force overtime, where Canada ultimately prevailed thanks to Mitch Marner’s game winning goal.
Before a puck was dropped, the energy in the building was through the roof. Boos rained down for team USA, and Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews — who was brought out alongside Finnish captain Aleksander Barkov, Hockey Hall of Famer Teemu Selanee and Stanley Cup champion Mike Richter pregame — while a standing ovation was held for one of the greatest players of all-time, Montreal native Mario Lemieux.
“The ovation for Mario to start, that was pretty cool,” Canadian captain Sidney Crosby said of the atmosphere in the arena.. “Just the crowd — coming out for warmups, the anticipation through the whole overtime… It was a lot of fun to play in a game like that.”
Fans in downtown Montreal were amped up to get this game going and so were the Canadian players.
It took Canada just 56 seconds to score the first goal of the tournament, thanks to a pair of guys from Nova Scotia.
On an early power play, Canadian captain Sidney Crosby fed a behind the back pass to fellow Cole Harbour, N.S. native Nathan MacKinnon, who beat Swedish goalie Filip Gustavsson on the first shot of the game.
As the captain of the Boston Bruins, Brad Marchand is, more often than not, welcomed to Montreal with relentless boo. Now that he’s once again wearing a Canadian jersey, Marchand was no longer public enemy No. 1 at the Bell Centre.
Marchand doubled Canada’s lead 13:15 into the first and it was followed by an enthusiastic cheer from the Montreal crowd.
Canada overwhelmed Sweden in the first; not giving up a shot on goal until 15:15 of the period, while already holding a 2-0 lead.
With the game not completely tilted Canada’s way in the second, Sweden began generating more chances in the offensive zone. Midway through the period, the Swedes finally broke through.
Jonas Brodin fired a shot up and over Jordan Binnington’s shoulder to finally get Sweden on the scoresheet.
With a goal on the board, Sweden began its pushback on the Canadians. Looking more comfortable in the offensive zone, an equalizer appeared to be on the way.
And then Sidney Crosby said no.
Already with a primary assist on the first goal of the game, Captain Canada made another great play to set up Mark Stone, who doubled Canada’s lead.
Swedish defenseman Gustav Forsling made a good play to not allow Crosby to cut towards the goal off the rush, however Crosby still found a way, spinning off the pressure before hitting Stone in the slot, who made it a 3-1 game with a five-hole goal.
“He will go down as the greatest player to represent his country,” Canada head coach Jon Cooper said of Crosby.
Everytime Canada looked to have the game in control, Sweden showed they weren’t out of the fight.
Adrian Kempe got the Swedes back to within one, beating Binnington blocker side 1:54 into the third.
Sweden kept up their pursuit for an equalizer and with just over 11 minutes to go in regulation., they found it.
Jesper Bratt found Joel Erikkson Ek sitting unmarked backdoor, and there was just too much time and space for the Minnesota Wild forward not to capitalize. Before the midway point of the third, Sweden had scored two unanswered goals to tie the game at 3-3.
“We knew that they were going to give us a good push,” said Canadian defenseman Cale Makar. “Obviously it’s an unreal team.We need to up our game at the beginning there, I think they surprised us a little bit.
The score remained tied through regulation, giving both teams a much needed point in this round-robin tournament — a regulation win gives you three points, an overtime/shootout win is two points, overtime/shootout loss is one and a regulation loss is zero points.
In the extra frame, Mitch Marner scored the game winner to give Canada the extra point, making it another rare moment where the Bell Centre crowd cheers for a Montreal Canadiens’ rival, this time being a Toronto Maple Leaf.
Crosby picked up his third primary assist of the night on Marner’s winner.
“I was on the bench when he scored,” Crosby said smiling. “He did all the work.”
The Canadians will be back in action at the Bell Centre on Saturday at 8 ET to take on the Americans in what’s sure to be another great game between the two nations. Sweden will face their own rival, Finland, on Saturday at 1 ET.
GAME NOTES
Forward Sam Bennett, defenseman Travis Sanheim and goaltender Samuel Montembeault were healthy scratches for Canada.
Forward Lucas Carlsson, defenseman Rasmus Andersson and goaltender Samuel Ersson were healthy scratches for Sweden.
Canada defenseman Shea Theodore left the game in the second period after being on the receiving end of a hit from Adrian Kempe. Theodore did not return to the game with an apparent shoulder injury. Jon Cooper confirmed postgame that Theodore is out for the tournament.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/CANDA-ANTHEM.jpg6081206Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-13 00:19:392025-02-13 00:19:39Marner Scores Overtime Winner, Canada Defeats Sweden in 4 Nations Opener
MONTREAL — The 4 Nations Face-Off leads off on Wednesday night with Canada taking on Sweden at the Bell Centre.
The two countries have three Florida Panthers between their respective rosters: Sam Reinhart, and Sam Bennett for the Canadians and Gustav Forsling for the Swedes.
Canada held a light optional morning skate ahead of Wednesday night’s contest, while Sweden had full attendance at their skate.
Like he does for the Panthers, Reinhart will be playing on Canada’s top-six, only his center won’t be Aleksander Barkov, rather Connor McDavid. Reinhart will also be on a loaded Canadian top power play unit, alongside Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar and McDavid.
On Monday, Sam Bennett skated on a line with Tampa Bay Lightning forwards Anthony Cirelli and Brandon Hagel, however the Panthers forward appears to be the odd-man out tonight against the Swedes. He will be a healthy scratch, alongside Travis Sanheim, per Sportsnet’s Luke Fox.
On the opposite side of the ice, Forsling, and his blueline partner, Sabres’ captain Rasmus Dahlin, have a big challenge ahead of themselves as they’ll try to stop a Canadian forward corp filled with All-Stars and future Hall of Famers. Forsling is no stranger to being matched up against the NHL’s bests, he was the Panthers’ No. 1 defenseman in the past two Stanley Cup Finals.
“He skates very well, reads the game very well,” Dahlin said of Forsling. “It’s going to be a great mix [playing with him]. I’m a little bit more offensive, he’s a little more defense. I think we can complement each other very well.”
Sweden’s special teams will also feature Forsling. He was on a PK unit with Edmonton Oilers defenseman Mattias Ekholm at Wednesday’s morning’s morning skate.
St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington gets the start for Canada — in front of what will be nearly an entire Canadian home crowd — while Minnesota Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson starts for Sweden.
Both squads are made up of the best players from their countries, however the Canadians — boasting 15 Stanley Cup champions on its roster — enter the game a heavy favorite.
“The players in that room, it’s special to be able to look around and see,” said Canadian forward Brad Marchand. “You’re witnessing hockey history with the guys that are there. It’s special to be a part of.”
Sweden is the designated home team, however the crowd should be almost entirely red as the Canadians take the ice in their country. Puck drop will be at 8 P.M. ET from the Bell Centre in Montreal.
*EDITOR NOTE: The original story has been updated following the news of Sam Bennett being scratch.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Forsling-Sweden.jpg8931206Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2025-02-12 12:43:132025-02-12 18:00:47Forsling and Sweden Take on Reinhart and Canada to Open 4 Nations Face-Off
