The NHL trade deadline is rapidly approaching.

So far, the NHL season had two blockbuster trades before the 4 Nations Face-Off break. Mikko Rantanen was dealt by the Colorado Avalanche to the Carolina Hurricanes and J.T. Miller was traded by the Vancouver Canucks to the New York Rangers.

Also this season, the Avalanche have changed up their goaltending, and the Dallas Stars acquired Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci from the San Jose Sharks.

There was a spurt of trades on March 1. Other moves will be made in the coming days as teams beef up for the playoffs or move veterans for draft picks and prospects.

Here is analysis on the deals that have happened leading up to the NHL trade deadline at 3 p.m. ET on March 7.

March 1: Panthers acquire Seth Jones from Blackhawks

The Florida Panthers send goalie Spencer Knight and a conditional 2026 first-round pick (which could move to 2027) to the Chicago Blackhawks for defenseman Seth Jones and a 2026 fourth-round pick. The Blackhawks retain 25% of his salary. Jones’ recent comments expressing frustration with the team’s play essentially pushed the trade. The Panthers get a right-shot defenseman who plays big minutes after losing right-shot Brandon Montour to free agency last summer. Knight, who won’t be stuck behind Sergei Bobrovsky any more, gets a chance to prove he can become a No. 1 goalie. Knight and the first-rounder are a good return, considering trade demands usually put teams at a disadvantage.

TRADE GRADE: Who won Seth Jones trade?

March 1: Wild acquire Gustav Nyquist from Predators

The Minnesota Wild give up a 2026 second-round pick to the Nashville Predators, who retain 50% of pending unrestricted free agent Gustav Nyquist’s $3.185 million salary. Minnesota is in need of help at forward because of injuries to Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek. Though Nyquist has struggled along with the Predators this season, he had 75 points last season. This is the second time the Wild have made a deadline deal for Nyquist. They previously acquired him in 2023 and he had five points in three regular-season games plus five points in six playoff games. He signed with the Predators as a free agent in July 2023.

March 1: Avalanche acquire Ryan Lindgren from Rangers

The Colorado Avalanche acquired defenseman Ryan Lindgren from the New York Rangers in a five-player deal involving two draft picks. The Rangers retain 50% of Lindgren’s salary. He plays a top-four role, which Colorado has needed after trading Bowen Byram last season, and kills penalties. Lindgren, who had two recent two-assist games but often seems to get hurt, and forward Jimmy Vesey are pending unrestricted free agents, so the Rangers get something in return. Juuso Parssinen, 24, is a pending restricted free agent who played a depth role in Colorado. This is his second trade of the season. Calvin de Haan is a pending UFA with 676 games of regular season experience.

Feb. 24: Red Wings trade Ville Husso to Ducks

The Detroit Red Wings get goaltender Ville Husso’s $4.75 million cap hit off their books. Husso has played only nine games with the Red Wings and had spent much of the season in the American Hockey League. Detroit receives future considerations in the deal. The Anaheim Ducks sent Husso to the AHL’s San Diego Gulls, where goalie Calle Clang is out with an injury.

Feb. 1: Stars acquire Mikael Granlund, Cody Ceci from Sharks

The Dallas Stars give up a 2025 first-round pick and a conditional third-round pick for forward Mikael Granlund and defenseman Cody Ceci. Dallas was short on both positions because forwards Tyler Seguin and Mason Marchment are injured, as are defensemen Miro Heiskanen and Nils Lundqvist.

Granlund led the Sharks with 45 points in 52 games and will add to a solid forward group, especially with Marchment getting closer to returning. Ceci led San Jose in ice time and blocked shots. Both newcomers are pending unrestricted free agents. The conditional third-round pick will be a fourth-rounder if the Stars don’t reach the Stanley Cup Final.

Jan. 31: Rangers acquire J.T. Miller in deal with Canucks

The New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks, two teams in the midst of disappointing seasons, swung a big trade Friday night they hope will shake things up for the better.

Vancouver shipped center J.T. Miller along with Erik Brannstrom and Jackson Dorrington to the Rangers in exchange for Filip Chytil, Victor Mancini and a conditional first-round pick in the 2025 draft, the teams announced. The pick is top-13 protected, according to multiple reports.

The Canucks weren’t done dealing Friday, either, flipping that first-round pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins in a separate deal, along with Danton Heinen, Vincent Desharnais and Melvin Fernstrom. They got back Marcus Pettersson and Drew O’Connor. – Jace Evans

ANALYSIS: Who won the trade?

Jan. 31: Flyers, Flames swap forwards in four-player trade

Joel Farabee and Morgan Frost went to Calgary and Andrei Kuzmenko, Jakob Pelletier, a 2025 second-round pick and a 2028 seventh-rounder went to Philadelphia. The deal was announced early Friday morning following the two teams’ games.

Farabee, a two-time 20-goal scorer, and Frost, who has hit double digits three times, can give the Flames scoring depth as the team tries to hold on to a playoff spot. Farabee is signed through 2027-28 and Frost is a pending restricted free agent.

Kuzmenko, a pending unrestricted free agent, wasn’t going to be re-signed in Calgary after the former 39-goal scorer (with Vancouver) had four goals this season. But it gives the Flyers a chance to see how he fares with Russian rookie Matvei Michkov, a fellow former Kontinental Hockey League player. Pelletier can fit in the Flyers’ bottom six forward group and kills penalties. He’ll be a restricted free agent.

Jan. 31: Golden Knights sign Brandon Saad for rest of the season

Not a trade, but the Vegas Golden Knights made an addition ahead of the deadline. They signed forward Brandon Saad (pro-rated $1.5 million) for the rest of the season after he was cut loose by the St. Louis Blues. The Blues had waived the two-time Stanley Cup winner, but the sides agreed to terminate the rest of his contract so he could become a free agent. Saad’s numbers (seven goals) have dropped off this season, but he scored 26 last season.

Jan. 27: Islanders acquire Scott Perunovich from Blues

The New York Islanders give up a conditional 2026 fifth-round pick for Scott Perunovich to address another injury on their blue line. The trade was announced after Ryan Pulock (upper body) was placed on the injured list. Perunovich had six points in 24 games with the St. Louis Blues this season. Last week, the Islanders signed free agent defenseman Tony DeAngelo for the remainder of the season because Noah Dobson is out with a lower-body injury.

Jan. 24: Mikko Rantanen traded in blockbuster deal

The Colorado Avalanche no longer have to worry whether they can fit pending free agent Mikko Rantanen in their salary structure. The two-time 100-point scorer was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes for Martin Necas, Jack Drury, a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-rounder. The Hurricanes also get Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks, who retained 50% of Rantanen’s salary.

The Avalanche pay MVP Nathan MacKinnon $12.6 million a year, and that was likely their top limit for Rantanen. Though Colorado loses a prolific scorer, Necas is the Hurricanes’ top scorer and is signed through next season. Drury is also signed through 2025-26 and will be a restricted free agent.

Last year, the Hurricanes were also aggressive before the deadline, but they lost in the second round and weren’t able to re-sign Jake Guentzel.

Dec. 28: Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche make trade

The Nashville Predators called up forward Vinnie Hinostroza, the American Hockey League’s leading scorer, then traded forward Juuso Parssinen to the Colorado Avalanche. The Avalanche also get a 2026 seventh-round pick and the Predators get back forward Ondrej Pavel and a 2027 third-round pick.

Hinostroza, a 374-game NHL veteran, signed a two-year deal with the Predators in the offseason but had spent the entire season in the AHL. So has Pavel. Parssinen had five points in 15 games with Nashville this season. The Predators and Avalanche swapped backup goaltenders earlier in the season.

Dec. 18: Rangers trade Kaapo Kakko to Kraken

The New York Rangers get back defenseman Will Borgen and 2025 third- and sixth-round picks in exchange for Kaapo Kakko, the No. 2 overall pick of 2019. The trade happened less than a day after Kakko complained about being a healthy scratch. ‘It’s just easy to take the young guy and put him out,’ he said Tuesday. ‘That’s how I feel.’

Kakko, 23, has never matched the expectation of being that high a pick, getting 40 points in his top season in 2022-23. He has 14 points this season and was named by Finland to the 4 Nations Face-Off.

The trade is the second recent shake-up move by the sliding Rangers, who dealt captain Jacob Trouba, a defenseman, to the Anaheim Ducks on Dec. 6. Borgen, who was taken by the Seattle Kraken in the expansion draft, had 20 or more points and averaged nearly 200 hits the past two seasons but has just two points and a minus-13 rating this season.

In other Dec. 18 trades:

The Montreal Canadiens and Nashville Predators swapped defensemen with Justin Barron, 23, heading to Nashville in exchange for Alexandre Carrier, 28. Carrier signed a three-year deal this offseason and gives the Canadiens a veteran right-shot defenseman. The Predators save $2.6 million in cap space.

The Pittsburgh Penguins acquired defenseman P.O. Joseph from the St. Louis Blues for future considerations. Joseph will help the Penguins with defenseman Marcus Pettersson out with an injury. Joseph played his first four NHL seasons with Pittsburgh.

Dec. 14: Blues acquire Ducks’ Cam Fowler in trade

The St. Louis Blues give up minor league defenseman Jeremie Biakabutuka and a 2027 second-round pick to land defenseman Cam Fowler, 33, who spent his entire NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks. St. Louis also gets a 2027 fourth-round pick and the Ducks retain about 38.5% of Fowler’s remaining salary.

The Blues, who will be without Torey Krug (ankle) this season, get a veteran defenseman who averages more than 21 minutes a game in ice time. Fowler was moved eight days after the Ducks acquired defenseman Jacob Trouba in a trade.

Dec. 9: Avalanche land Mackenzie Blackwood in goalie trade with Sharks

The Colorado Avalanche’s season-opening goaltending tandem of Alexandar Georgiev and Justus Annunen is out after a subpar start. Now they’re running with Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood after separate trades with the San Jose Sharks and Nashville Predators, respectively.

The Blackwood trade is the latest one and includes forward Givani Smith and a draft pick going to Colorado, while forward Nikolai Kovalenko and two picks go to San Jose. Blackwood has a .904 save percentage to Georgiev’s .874, and he made 49 saves in his last game. Georgiev was pulled in his second-to-last start.

Dec. 6: Rangers trade Jacob Trouba, extend Igor Shesterkin

The sliding New York Rangers dominated the news Friday by trading captain Jacob Trouba and giving Igor Shesterkin an eight-year extension that makes him the highest-paid NHL goalie.

The Rangers officially announced the extension on Saturday.

The Trouba trade happened first Friday with the Rangers getting back defenseman Urho Vaakanainen and a 2025 fourth-round pick. But the biggest part is the Anaheim Ducks took on Trouba’s $8 million cap hit, giving the Rangers flexibility. Trouba, who has struggled this season and didn’t waive his no-trade clause this summer, adds a veteran presence to the young Ducks. He and new teammate Radko Gudas are two of the hardest hitters in the league.

Shesterkin will average $11.5 million in his new deal, according to reports, moving him past Carey Price ($10.5 million) as the top-paid goaltender. The Rangers rely heavily on Shesterkin, who faces a lot of high-danger shots.

Also: The Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens pulled off a minor trade. Forward Jacob Perreault, son of former NHL player Yanic Perreault, heads to Edmonton for defenseman Noel Hoefenmayer.

Nov. 30: Wild acquire defenseman David Jiricek from Blue Jackets

The Minnesota Wild acquired former first-round pick David Jiricek, 21, from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a package that includes 22-year-old defenseman Daemon Hunt and a package of draft picks including a top-five protected 2025 first-round pick. Jiricek, a 2022 sixth-overall pick who had been sent to American Hockey League, will report to the Wild’s AHL team. The other picks heading to Columbus: 2026 third- and fourth-rounders and a 2027 second-rounder. The Wild get a 2025 fifth-round pick.

Nov. 30: Predators, Avalanche swap goaltenders

The Colorado Avalanche acquired backup goalie Scott Wedgewood from the Nashville Predators for backup goalie Justus Annunen and a sixth-round pick. The Avalanche, who have the league’s third-worst team goals-against average, were expected to make some sort of goaltending move but not necessarily this one. Annunen, 24, has slightly better stats this season, but he’s a restricted free agent at the end of the season. Wedgewood, 32, who was signed in the offseason and played five games for the Predators, has another year left on his contract.

Nov. 25: Penguins acquire Philip Tomasino from Predators

Philip Tomasino (one point in 11 games) is the final year of his contract so the struggling Nashville Predators get something in return, a 2027 fourth-round pick. The equally struggling Pittsburgh Penguins get another person for their bottom six. The former first-round pick’s best season was 32 points as a rookie in 2021-22.

Nov. 12: Capitals reacquire Lars Eller in trade with Penguins

Center Lars Eller, 35, is a familiar face for the Washington Capitals after playing in Washington from 2016-23 and winning a Stanley Cup there in 2018. He kills penalties and is strong in the faceoff circle. The Pittsburgh Penguins’ side of the trade might be more interesting. They get a 2027 third-round pick and a 2025 fifth-rounder, and this also could be an indication that the Penguins are shaking up the roster after a disappointing start. Eller’s trade will allow the team to give more ice time to younger players. He’s a pending unrestricted free agent.

Oct. 30: Sharks acquire Timothy Liljegren from Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs get defenseman Matt Benning, a 2025 third-round pick and a 2026 sixth-rounder. Liljegren, 25, had been limited to one game in Toronto this season, and the Maple Leafs recently committed to blue-liner Jake McCabe with a five-year extension. But Liljegren should fit in well in San Jose, which is building around younger players. Benning, 30, and Liljegren are signed through 2025-26.

This is the second day with an NHL trade after none previously since the season opened in North America.

Oct. 29: Utah acquires defenseman Olli Maatta from Red Wings

The Utah Hockey Club gives up a third-round pick as it addresses a desperate need for a veteran defenseman. Sean Durzi and John Marino are out long-term after surgery. Utah has been leaking goals during a four-game losing streak, including blowing a 4-1 lead late in the third period against the previously winless San Jose Sharks. Maatta is solid defensively and has nearly 700 games of NHL experience.

Alabama made a mistake late, and Tennessee basketball capitalized.

With the top-10 matchup tied at 76 with under four seconds left, the Vols held the Crimson Tide to a five-second violation on Alabama’s inbounds play on what could have been a go-ahead score for Alabama. Instead, it opened the door for one final Tennessee possession before a potential overtime period.

And, as it turns out, overtime wasn’t needed.

Jahmai Mashack called game, taking the ball from across court before heaving a deep 3-pointer for the 79-76 win as time expired. Mashack was essential down the stretch, also tying the game at 76 after nailing a pair of free throws with 30 seconds left.

The Vols were led by guard Chaz Lanier, who scored 18 points and pulled Tennessee within two points on a tough and-one layup with 30 seconds left, although he missed the free throw. An Alabama foul on the ensuing play led to Mashack’s pair of free throw makes.

Alabama guard Mark Sears led all scorers with 24 points, shooting 7 of 16 from the field and 4 of 9 from 3-point range.

The win marks Tennessee’s fourth in a row, as the Vols handed the Crimson Tide their third of their last five games. Alabama’s loss also opens the door for Florida to potentially move to a tie for second in the SEC standings, should the Gators defeat Texas A&M on Saturday night.

The world will not stop if Lamont Roach Jr. beats Gervonta “Tank’’ Davis Saturday night and wins the WBA lightweight world title. After all, Roach is the WBA super featherweight world champion.

But with Davis, it’s less a question who will win the bout than in what round it will end. He is 30-0 with 28 knockouts and has stopped 20 of his past 21 opponents before the final bell.

“It actually feels like a home run,’ Davis, 30, said of the knockouts. “Like someone hits the bat on the target and it goes far. That’s how it feel when you hit someone on the button.’’

His victims include Ryan Garcia, Leo Santa Cruz, Jose Pedraza and, quite likely on Saturday night, Roach (25-1-1, 10 KOs).

But over his last eight fights, Davis either is letting opponents tire themselves out or having to work harder. He won seven of those fights by KO but none came sooner than the sixth round. During that stretch, Isaac Cruz took Davis the distance in a 12-round bout.

Davis said Roach, 29, will be the most skillful boxer he’s faced yet. But chances are Roach will finish where most of the others have – on the canvas.

USA TODAY Sports will have coverage of the main event and all the preliminary bouts. Follow along for the latest updates, results and highlights.

Watch Davis vs. Roach with Amazon Prime PPV

Yoenis Tellez vs. Julian Williams, super welterweight

Round 1: Julian Williams out quick behind the jab. Yoenis Tellez’s pink gloves waiting for action. There flies a jab from Tellez. More lefts follow as Tellez becomes and aggressor. But Williams scores with two hard rights and a left hook. Williams 10, Tellez 9.

Round 2: Williams opens with a couple of jabs and Tellez responds with heavy fire. Tellez stalking as Williams fires the jab, then combinations. Williams landing with more power. Tellez finishes strong, but too late. Williams 20, Tellez 18.

Round 3: Tellez comes out the aggressor. Williams still firing jabs to keep his opponent at bay. Tellez breaks through with effective body punches and a big uppercut. Williams urgently moves forward out of the corner and Tellez retreats. Tellez delivers with solid combination and Williams backpedals. He’s bleeding over the left eye as the round ends. Williams 29, Tellez 28.

Round 4: Tellez stalks again. Williams showing some effectiveness with the jab as Tellez needs time to find an opening.  Action has slowed. Now Tellez is using his jab to close the distance, and Williams responds with expert use of his jab and a couple of hard body shots. Tellez counters with an uppercut. Williams 38, Tellez 38. 

Round 5: Williams lands combinations, but it’s not enough to stop Tellez. The young Cuban keeps marching forward and the swelling on Williams’ face is evident. Tellez continues to pepper Williams’ face with jabs while unloading heavier punches when the opportunity presents itself. Tellez 48, Williams 47.

Round 6: Tellez pushing forward behind that jab and uncorks an overhand right. Lands two body shots and Williams looks non-threatening. Williams stands his ground, but his face is taking a beating. Another strong finish for Tellez. Tellez 58, Williams 56.

Round 7: Williams looks wary. Or is it weary? Maybe both. Tellez is 10 years younger and looks fresh. Williams lands a combination, but Tellez counters with a nasty left hook. The action is turning increasingly lopsided in favor of the pink-gloved Tellez. Tellez 68, Williams 65.

Round 8: Williams opens fast with a couple of jabs. He lands a good right, but Tellez looks unconcerned. They trade solid body shots. Tellez stalks again and drives a left into Williams’ midsection. Catches up to Williams and lands two flurries of punches. Tellez 78, Williams 74.  

Round 9: Williams fires a couple of hard jabs. Tellez responds with heavier punches. Williams looks content to stick-and-move-and-get-stuck-with-punches. Williams bleeding profusely under both eyes. He absorbs some big body punches before countering with solid punches. They’re trading jabs. Williams can use an ice facial. Tellez 88, Williams 83. 

Johan Gonzalez def. Jarrett Hurd by split decision

Hurd, the former unified super welterweight champion, announced his retirement moments after losing to Gonzalez in the 10-round middleweight bout.

Hurd held the IBO and IBF super welterweight titles in 2019, but did not turn back the clock against Gonzalez. He found himself under attack from the outset and looked mostly lackluster until the final rounds.

The judges scored it 96-94, 94-96, 98-92 in favor of Gonzalez, the 33-year-old from Venezuela who improved to 36-3.

Hurd, 34, started out his career 23-0. But it ends after he went 2-4-1 in his final seven fights.

David Whitmire def. Angel Munoz by unanimous decision

Whitmire, also known as “The Body Snatcher,’’ lived up to his nickname during the six-round welterweight bout.

Whitmire punished Munoz with body shots and did some meaningful headhunting, too.

Munoz managed to stay on his feet and connected with hooks, but he lacked the power to hurt Whitmire.

All three judges scored it 60-54 for Whitmire, 19, who improved to 9-0. Munoz, 22, dropped to 7-1. 

Deric Davis def. Jamal Johnson by TKO

Davis knocked Johnson down twice in the first round of their super lightweight bout for a TKO victory.

The first knockdown came on a body shot. Johnson’s mouthpiece went flying as he went tumbling to the canvas. The second knockdown came on a left hook that dropped Johnson and prompted the referee to call the fight with 1:04 left the first round.

Davis, 22, improved to 6-0 while recording his fifth first-round stoppage.

Johnson, who entered the ring wearing a black mask, fell to 2-1.

Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach time 

Prelimary fights begin at 6 p.m. ET with the main event card beginning at 8 p.m. ET. The Davis-Roach fight has an approximate ring walk of 11 p.m. ET.

Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight card

Main Card

WBA lightweight title fight: Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach
Super lightweight: Jose Valenzuela vs. Gary Antuanne Russell
WBC super lightweight title fight: Alberto Puello vs. Sandor Martin
Super welterweight: Yoenis Tellez vs. Julian Williams

Prelims

Middleweight: Jarrett Hurd vs. Johan Gonzalez
Super featherweight: Geo Lopez vs. Grimardi Machuca
Super welterweight: Cristian Cangelosi vs. Jarrod Tennant
Super welterweight: Dwyke Flemmings Jr. vs. Florent Dervis
Welterweight: David Whitmire vs. Angel Munoz
Super bantamweight: Alexis De la Cerda Landin vs. Sharone Carter
Super middleweight: Nasheed H. Smith vs. Tariq Green
Lightweight: Deric Davis vs. Oscar Eduardo Gonzalez Jr.

Where is the Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight? 

This WBA lightweight championship fight will get underway on Saturday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Davis vs. Roach card start time

Main card: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT (Amazon Prime PPV)
Prelims: 6 p.m. ET/ 3 p.m. ET (Prime Video)

How to watch Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight 

Coverage starts at 8 p.m. ET for the main event card and will be available on Amazon Prime PPV. Preliminary bouts starting at 6 p.m. ET available on Prime video.

Watch Davis vs. Roach with Amazon Prime PPV

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach fight odds

All available odds are for moneyline bets as of Friday, according to BetMGM. (Check for new odds before adding to file)

Main Card

WBA lightweight title fight: Gervonta Davis (-2000) vs. Lamont Roach (+750)
Super lightweight: Jose Valenzuela (-110) vs. Gary Antuanne Russell (-120)
WBC super lightweight title fight: Alberto Puello (-135) vs. Sandor Martin (+100)
Super welterweight: Yoenis Tellez (-1600) vs. Julian Williams (+650)

Prelims

Middleweight: Jarrett Hurd (-120) vs. Johan Gonzalez (-110)
Super featherweight: Geo Lopez vs. Grimardi Machuca
Super welterweight: Cristian Cangelosi vs. Jarrod Tennant
Super welterweight: Dwyke Flemmings Jr. vs. Florent Dervis
Welterweight: David Whitmire vs. Angel Munoz
Super bantamweight: Alexis De la Cerda Landin vs. Sharone Carter
Super middleweight: Nasheed H. Smith vs. Tariq Green
Lightweight: Deric Davis vs. Oscar Eduardo Gonzalez Jr.

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach predictions

CBS Sports: Pick Gervonta Davis

Brent Brookhouse writes: ‘While Roach is right that the amateur fights between the two do provide some direct knowledge of being in the ring with the champ, it also overlooks that, even as teenagers, Davis was the better fighter. That hasn’t changed as the years have ticked by. Davis is too smart, too disciplined and too powerful for Roach. The challenger may win an early round or two given Davis’ tendency to start slowly while he scouts out his opponent and figures out where the openings are to hurt them. But once Davis gets rolling, it will likely be a matter of time before he lands some big shots to end things.’

Yahoo Sports: Davis KO

Darshan Desai writes: ‘I expect Roach to have success in the early rounds at long range and occasionally catch Davis in exchanges due to his reach advantage, similar to the success Rolando Romero had against Davis. But Roach leaves himself open to counters, and I expect Davis to capitalize devastatingly in the second half of the fight.’

Boxing Scene: Jim Lampley picks Davis

David Greisman writes, according to Lampley: ‘Even if Tank did not possess his shocking punching power, he would be an elite lightweight on the basis of his crafty boxing, southpaw style advantage, clever footwork and visible killer instinct,” Lampley said. “But it is pure power that really sets him apart. He doesn’t just beat his opponents. He annihilates them in breathtaking, often scary fashion.’

Boxing News: Oscar De La Hoya picks Davis

The site reported that Oscar De La Hoya said: ‘I think Lamont Roach is a terrific fighter, he might be a little over his head with Gervonta Davis. Gervonta Davis is, I mean, to say the least. He’s a beast. He really is. He’s (Gervonta Davis) a tremendous fighter. He’s a dedicated fighter when it comes to training and fighting and making sure that he’s in optimal conditions when he steps inside that squared circle. It’s gonna be a tough night for Roach, but you can never count him out.”

Has Tank Davis ever been knocked down?

Officially, Davis never has been knocked down. But that’s a matter of debate. In 2020, during the first round of his fight against Leo Santa Cruz, Davis ended up on the canvas. The referee did not rule it a knockdown – but judge for yourself.

What is not in dispute is the Davis’ highlight-reel KO that ended the fight in the sixth round.

Who is Tank Davis’ girlfriend Vanessa Posso?

Vanessa Posso, Davis’ girlfriend, is the mother of two of the boxer’s three children. She is a model with her own jewelry line called “Rich Girlz.’

Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach live stream

Coverage starts at 8 p.m. ET and will be available on Amazon Prime PPV with prelim fights available on Prime Video.

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LOS ANGELES — The regular season in women’s college basketball is coming to a close, and the Big Ten regular season title will be decided Saturday in the crosstown showdown between No. 2 UCLA and No. 3 Southern California.

It will be the second meeting of the season between the two California schools that have been among the best in the country. In the first matchup on Feb. 13, USC star JuJu Watkins had an incredible performance to lead the Trojans past the Bruins and hand their rival the first loss of the season. Now, the second meeting takes place on UCLA’s home court and in the regular season finale for both sides. The winner of the contest will get the No. 1 seed in the Big Ten tournament next week as they each remain in the hunt for a top seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Follow USA TODAY Sports for updates and highlights from Pauley Pavilion:

When is UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball game?

The game is scheduled for Saturday, March 1 at 9 p.m. ET.

How to watch UCLA vs. USC

Date: Saturday, March 1
Time: 9 p.m. ET
TV: Fox
Streaming options: Fox Sports Go app | Fubo (free trial)

Fox will nationally broadcast Saturday’s game between UCLA and USC. It can be streamed on the Fox Sports Go app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which carries Fox and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

What channel is UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball game on?

USC and UCLA’s matchup on Thursday will be broadcasted on Fox.

UCLA starting lineup

Kiki Rice, G
Londynn Jones, G
Gabriela Jaquez, F
Angela Dugalic, F
Lauren Betts, C

USC starting lineup

Kennedy Smith, G
JuJu Watkins, G
Talia von Oelhoffen, G
Rayah Marshall, F
Kiki Iriafen, F

UCLA vs. USC women’s basketball odds

Odds according to BetMGM.

Spread: UCLA (-4.5)
Moneyline: UCLA (-250); USC (+200)
Over/under: 140.5

UCLA resume

Record: 27-1
NET ranking: No. 5
Quad 1 record: 10-1
Quality wins: No. 6 South Carolina, No. 18 Baylor, No. 17 Maryland, No. 12 Ohio State, No. 22 Michigan State
Losses: No. 3 USC

USC resume

Record: 25-2
NET ranking: No. 6
Quad 1 record: 9-2
Quality wins: Mississippi, No. 5 Connecticut, No. 17 Maryland, No. 12 Ohio State, No. 2 UCLA, No. 22 Michigan State
Losses: No. 4 Notre Dame, Iowa

UCLA last five results

Thursday, Feb. 13: USC 71, UCLA 60
Sunday, Feb. 16: UCLA 75, Michigan State 69
Thursday, Feb. 20: UCLA 70, Illinois 55
Sunday, Feb. 23: UCLA 67, Iowa 65
Wednesday, Feb. 26: UCLA 91, Wisconsin 61

USC last five results

Saturday, Feb. 8: USC 84, Ohio State 63
Thursday, Feb. 13: USC 71, UCLA 60
Sunday, Feb. 16: USC 69, Washington 64
Wednesday, Feb. 19: USC 83, Michigan State 75
Sunday, Feb. 23: USC 76, Illinois 66

Keys to UCLA vs. USC

There’s more than just city bragging rights at stake when UCLA and Southern California meet again on Saturday.

The No. 2 Bruins and No. 3 Trojans had an epic first clash on Feb. 13, with JuJu Watkins delivering a signature performance as USC beat its rival in front of its home fans. The second game will take place at UCLA. Just like the first matchup at the Galen Center, an electric environment is expected; it will be a sell-out crowd at Pauley Pavilion.

UCLA and USC have had little trouble in their first season in the Big Ten. Saturday’s winner can cap off an incredible regular season with a championship and generate momentum as March Madness approaches. Each team has national championship aspirations and is in prime position to get a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament based on Thursday’s selection committee rankings.

‘It’s for all the marbles here,’ said USC forward Rayah Marshall.

– Read the keys and things to watch for the matchup here.

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After almost two days of defenders working out in Indianapolis, the offense finally had their time to shine.

Quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs made their case on Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium, all hoping to etch their name onto someone’s draft card in late April. The running backs stole the show, putting their speed on display, while quarterbacks struggled without the top of the class participating.

As for the receivers, Isaiah Bond put all eyes on him heading into the day after promising to break the 40-yard dash record.

He fell short of that goal by a sizable margin, but his teammate, Matthew Golden, made himself a household name with a blazing 4.29. That mark was the position’s best and the top time of the day, checking in just behind Friday’s winner, Maxwell Hairston.

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There was plenty of talent on display, but perhaps the biggest takeaway was the talent that didn’t take part on Saturday. Top NFL draft prospects Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, Ashton Jeanty and Tet McMillan all remained on the sidelines after opting to skip drills.

Where today’s participants stack up with those holdouts will be left to mystery, but the door was open for the remaining players to make some noise.

Here’s a look at the results and how everything unfolded on Saturday during Day 3 of the NFL combine.

Day 3 of the NFL combine comes to a close

The last group of receivers and quarterbacks have finished up in Indianapolis, putting a bow on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL combine. Just the offensive lineman remain for this year’s event and they will take the field on Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Quarterbacks official 40-yard dash times

Only three quarterbacks participated in the 40-yard dash this year. Here’s how they performed:

Brady Cook, Missouri: 4.59
Tyler Shough, Louisville: 4.63
Seth Henigan, Memphis: 4.76

Wide receivers official 40-yard dash times

The NFL has posted its official times for all wide receivers that participated in this year’s 40-yard dash. Here’s how the top 10 looks after both groups of wideouts finished running:

Matthew Golden, Texas: 4.29
Dont’e Thornton Jr., Tennessee: 4.30
Chimere Dike, Florida: 4.34
Jaylin Lane, Virginia Tech: 4.34
Arian Smith, Georgia: 4.36
Tai Felton, Maryland: 4.37
KeAndre Lambert-Smith, Auburn: 4.37
Jordan Watkins, Mississippi: 4.37
Isaiah Bond, Texas: 4.39
Jaylin Noel, Iowa State: 4.39

Tennessee WR Dont’e Thornton Jr. sets fastest 40 mark in his group

Thornton, who measured in at 6-foot-5, 205 pounds, ran an unofficial 4.30-second 40-yard dash, which led every wide receiver in the second group to run the drill.

His 4.30 mark, if official, would also rank second of all wideouts, behind only Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden and his 4.29-second time with the first group of receivers.

Iowa State’s Jaylin Noel sets top mark for WRs in vertical, broad jumps

Noel tied Miami (FL) receiver Sam Brown Jr. for the top spot among receivers with a 41.5-inch vertical leap. Noel’s 11-foot-2-inch broad jump surpassed Brown to set the high mark for wideouts.

The Iowa State product’s numbers showcase his impressive explosiveness at the position. He’ll run the 40-yard dash with the second group of wide receivers shortly.

Alabama QB Jalen Milroe hand measurement increase

Milroe’s hands were measured at 8 3/4 inches at the Senior Bowl a few weeks ago. At the NFL combine, Milroe’s hands measured in at 9 3/8 inches, half an inch bigger than they were in Mobile, Alabama.

Official 40-yard dash times for first wide receivers group

The NFL has confirmed official times for the first batch of wide receivers’ 40-yard dashes. Here’s how the top 10 shook out:

Matthew Golden, Texas: 4.29
Chimere Dike, Florida: 4.34
Tai Felton, Maryland: 4.37
Isaiah Bond, Texas: 4.39
Luther Burden III, Missouri: 4.41
Tory Horton, Colorado State: 4.41
Elijhah Badger, Florida: 4.43
Elic Ayomanor, Stanford: 4.44
Sam Brown Jr., Miami (FL): 4.44
Jimmy Horn Jr., Colorado: 4.46

Quarterbacks begin on-field throwing to receivers

The first group of receivers finished running their 40-yard dash attempts and going through the gauntlet drill. A few moments later, they started running routes for the quarterback prospects to start throwing on the field.

Mississippi’s Jaxson Dart, Texas’ Quinn Ewers, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel and Ohio State’s Will Howard are among the first group of throwers.

Texas wideout Isaiah Bond runs 4.40-second 40-yard dash

According to his second unofficial time, Bond was unable to break the 4.4-second mark in the 40-yard dash. He had told reporters Friday that he expected to break former teammate Xavier Worthy’s 4.21-second record at this year’s combine.

Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond runs a 4.41 in the 40-yard dash

Bond, who was expected to be one of the fastest prospects at the NFL combine, clocked an unofficial 4.41-second time in his first try at the 40-yard dash.

Only two quarterbacks run the 40-yard dash

Missouri’s Brady Cook and Memphis’ Seth Henigan were the only two signal-callers to run with the first group at the NFL combine. Cook ran an unofficial 4.60, and Henigan reached 4.77.

The first batch of wide receivers started running their 40s a few minutes after Henigan’s second run.

Quarterbacks warming up ahead of on-field workouts

The running backs’ portion of on-field drills is over, and the quarterbacks have started to warm up ahead of their session.

Notably absent are Miami (FL)’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, both of whom opted out of working out at the combine this week. Both players will work at their respective pro days instead: Ward in Coral Gables on March 24, and Sanders on a March date to be announced.

Running backs 40-yard dash results

The 40-yard dash times for running backs are now official. History will show that Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten turned in the fastest time for the position in 2025, clocking in at 4.32, while Texas’ Jaydon Blue finished with a 4.38. SMU’s Brashard Smith was the only other running back to finish with a sub-4.40 40-yard dash, posting a 4.39. Here’s a look at the top-10:

Bhayshul Tuten, Virginia Tech: 4.32
Jaydon Blue, Texas: 4.38
Brashard Smith, SMU: 4.39
RJ Harvey, UCF: 4.40
Montrell Johnson Jr., Florida: 4.41
Trevor Etienne, Georgia: 4.42
DJ Giddens, Kansas State: 4.43
TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State: 4.43
Donovan Edwards, Michigan: 4.44
Jarquez Hunter, Auburn: 4.44

Cam Skattebo injury: RB prospect doesn’t run 40-yard dash

Skattebo made headlines for his decision to skip most of the drills at the NFL combine. His most notable absence came in the 40-yard dash, something many evaluators and fans wanted to see from the Arizona State running back. NFL Network’s Stacy Dales reported on the broadcast that Skattebo is dealing with a left hamstring injury that is considered to be a ‘low-grade’ issue.

He put on a show in front of a national audience at the Peach Bowl against Texas and now looks primed to be a name to watch at the NFL draft. Skattebo turned in 143 rushing yards, 99 receiving yards, 42 passing yards, scored two touchdowns and threw for another in a losing effort. While the Sun Devils didn’t advance, football fans were looking forward to his performance at the NFL combine. The focus now shifts to Arizona State’s pro day, where Skattebo is expected to run.

Bhayshul Tuten runs 4.32 in second attempt

Turns out, this Hokie was just getting warmed up. Tuten turns on the jets and posts a 4.32 in his second attempt, separating himself from the pack with that run.

Jaydon Blue doesn’t break 40-yard dash record

Blue said earlier in the week that he would break the record set by the Kansas City Chiefs’ Xavier Worthy last year. He suggested he would run around 4.10 or 4.20, but the results said otherwise. After two runs in the 40-yard dash, Blue didn’t beat Worthy’s 4.21 time. The Texas running back instead posted a 4.39 in his second attempt after running a 4.40 the first time around.

Bhayshul Tuten runs first sub-4.40 40-yard dash for RBs

The Virginia Tech running back posted an unofficial 4.38 in his first attempt. That is the best of any running back thus far, beating out Texas’ Jaydon Blue in what’s been a fairly speedy class thus far.

Day 3 of the NFL combine begins

We are off and running, literally, on Day 3 at the NFL combine. The running backs are up first as Ole Miss’ Ulysses Bentley IV gets us going with a unofficial 4.62.

How to watch the NFL combine today

Date: Friday, Feb. 28
TV channel: NFL Network
Live stream: Fubo

NFL Network will carry the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine from Thursday through Sunday.

For those who want to live stream the event, Fubo carries NFL Network. Fubo also comes with a free trial.

Watch the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine with Fubo (free trial)

What time does the NFL combine start today?

Start time: 1 p.m. ET

The quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers all will take the field at 1 p.m. ET. That makes for a full day of workouts and drills, potentially the longest of the combine.

NFL combine schedule

Here is how the schedule of events looks for combine week in Indianapolis:

Placekickers, defensive linemen, linebackers:

Media availability session, kicking workout: Wednesday, Feb. 26
Measurements and on-field workout: Thursday, Feb. 27
Bench press, departure: Friday, Feb. 28

Defensive backs, tight ends:

Media availability session: Thursday, Feb. 27
Measurements and on-field workout: Friday, Feb. 28
Bench press, departure: Saturday, March 1

Running backs, quarterbacks, wide receivers:

Media availability session: Friday, Feb. 28
Measurements and on-field workout: Saturday, March 1
Bench press, departure: Sunday, March 2

Offensive linemen:

Media availability session: Saturday, March 1
Measurements and on-field workout: Sunday, March 2
Bench press, departure: Monday, March 3

Fastest NFL combine 40-yard dash time

Through two days at the combine, the fastest time belongs to Kentucky DB Maxwell Hairston. Hairston posted a 4.28 official time during Friday’s DB workouts and drills.

USA TODAY Sport’s Nick Brinkerhoff contributed to this article.

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said at the NFL combine they would honor Deebo Samuel’s trade request. Lynch made good of his word.

The 49ers have agreed to trade Samuel to the Washington Commanders, a person familiar with the situation confirmed to USA TODAY Sports. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the trade isn’t official yet. San Francisco will receive a fifth-round pick in exchange.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter was the first to report the trade.

The trade won’t be official until the new league year on March 12. The trade is also pending a physical.

“There’s a lot of love there,’ Lynch said of Samuel at the NFL combine. ‘There’s a lot of respect there. There’s a lot of shared experiences. So, to let that go, that’s difficult.’

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

The Commanders official X page had some fun with the trade, posting an image of Deebo, a character from the movie ‘Friday.’

San Francisco originally drafted Samuel in the second round of the 2019 NFL draft.

The versatile wideout is known for his ability to make plays with the football, whether it’s catching passes or running with the football out of the backfield.

Samuel has 334 receptions, 4,792 receiving yards, 22 touchdown catches, 1,143 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns in six seasons.

Samuel’s best year came in 2021 when he tallied career highs in catches (77), receiving yards (1,405), rushing yards (365), rushing touchdowns (8) and yards from scrimmage (1,770). He was named a first-team All-Pro for his 2021 performance.

The Commanders are hoping Samuel can tap into his 2021 form after what was a down final year in San Francisco.

Samuel joins a Commanders team led by NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year quarterback Jayden Daniels. He bolsters a talented offense that includes Terry McLaurin, running back Brian Robinson Jr. and veteran tight end Zach Ertz.

The early aches, pains and twinges have arrived. So, too, have all the veteran signees who didn’t find a job until spring training was well underway.

So just how do the 30 major league teams stack up with one month until Opening Day?

USA TODAY Sports’ first power rankings of this baseball season begin as the last ended – with the Los Angeles Dodgers on top. Yet some big winter movers have wedged their way into the top 10, while a handful of teams who have already experienced some attrition got dinged, ever so slightly.

OFFSEASON GRADES: Big-spending teams ace the test but who got an F?

We’ll be back before first pitch to give these a fine-tuning, but for now, we can offer a semi-scientific look at the landscape as Grapefruit and Cactus League play unfold.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

A look at our inaugural 2025 rankings:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

You know you’re deep when the best a guy with a $182 million contract can do is get the Domestic Opening Day start.

2. Philadelphia Phillies

The deepest group in a three-team NL East chase.

3. New York Yankees

Felt like just enough shakeup after coming so close – though a third baseman would be nice.

4. Arizona Diamondbacks

Kinda scary they won 89 games with Corbin Carroll hitting .213 through the first 94 games.

5. Atlanta Braves

Spencer Schwellenbach may be the glue of this rotation.

6. Baltimore Orioles

How soon will Samuel Basallo bang down the door to Baltimore?

7. New York Mets

Perhaps Juan Soto tucked a few hits in the cab of Brett Baty’s truck.

8. San Diego Padres

Is Tirso Ornelas primed to grab a full-time spot in the lineup?

9. Texas Rangers

Joc Pederson counted on for a lot in the middle of that lineup.

10. Detroit Tigers

Matt Vierling’s rotator cuff strain puts a little more pressure on Jace Jung.

11. Boston Red Sox

Brayan Bello likely won’t be ready for first turn around the rotation.

12. Cincinnati Reds

Anticipating a lot of Matt McLain content in this space going forward.

13. Houston Astros

‘Left fielder Jose Altuve’ will take some getting used to.

14. Chicago Cubs

Nico Hoerner to miss opening series in Tokyo.

15. Seattle Mariners

Reliever Trevor Gott, slugger Rowdy Tellez among the late camp additions.

16. Kansas City Royals

After a year in Japan, Thomas Hatch aiming for spot on pitching staff.

17. Toronto Blue Jays

Daulton Varsho making steady progress in bid to return by Opening Day.

18. Milwaukee Brewers

So far, so good for Brandon Woodruff in live BP sessions on road back from shoulder surgery.

19. Cleveland Guardians

Larry Dolan’s passing puts son Paul – already the control person – firmly in the spotlight.

20. Tampa Bay Rays

Shane McClanahan already named Opening Day starter.

21. San Francisco Giants

Slugging prospect Bryce Eldridge getting first base tips from guest Gold Glove instructor J.T. Snow.

22. St. Louis Cardinals

Thomas Saggese poised to snag bigger role should Nolan Arenado trade go down.

23. Minnesota Twins

One spring-training scare could have been much, much worse.

24. Pittsburgh Pirates

Versatile Jared Triolo getting some looks at first base.

25. Washington Nationals

Kyle Finnegan remains a National, after all.

26. Los Angeles Angels

Zach Neto’s repaired shoulder won’t be ready by Opening Day.

27. Athletics

Union keeping close eye on condition of temporary digs in Sacramento.

28. Colorado Rockies

Top pitching prospect Chase Dollander looking crisp in early exhibition action.

29. Miami Marlins

Sandy Alcantara, your Opening Day starter, already topping 100 mph in Grapefruit League.

30. Chicago White Sox

Broken hand puts Andrew Benintendi out into April.

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Lionel Messi will not play for Inter Miami in Sunday’s match against the Houston Dynamo. He did not travel with his Inter Miami teammates to Houston, a team club spokesman said Saturday. 

The reason: Messi needs to rest — a decision made by Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano. 

Along with ticket-paying fans, Messi’s presence will be missed by MLS and Apple as the match is the featured game in the second edition of ‘Sunday Night Soccer” — a primetime showcase created by Major League Soccer and Apple TV this season. The match is available to watch Sunday at 7 p.m. ET on MLS Season Pass and Apple TV+.

Messi is not injured, Inter Miami says. He is expected to play again Thursday when it hosts Jamaican league champions Cavalier FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup round of 16 matchup. 

However, Inter Miami will play its first eight games of the season in a span of 28 days. The club’s upcoming schedule consists of five matches in 15 days, with three of them coming on the road. 

Messi started the first three matches of the year, and has scored two goals with two assists. 

Messi helped Inter Miami beat Sporting Kansas City 1-0 on Feb. 19, playing the distance in subfreezing temperatures in Kansas City, Kansas to start the year. 

Messi had two assists and played the entire match in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw to open the MLS season Saturday against New York City FC. He was also fined by the league’s disciplinary committee for inappropriately squeezing the back of an opposing coach’s neck as the match concluded. 

Messi scored a goal and played just 68 minutes as Inter Miami beat Sporting KC again 3-1 last Tuesday, to advance 4-1 on aggregate score to the Round of 16 in the Concacaf Champions Cup tournament.

The Houston match is the fourth in a 12-day stretch for Inter Miami. Houston (0-0-1) and Inter Miami (0-1-0) each are looking for their first MLS win of the season Sunday. 

Messi has played in Houston at least four times during his career, most recently with Argentina during the Copa America last summer.