Three days clear of Black Monday, and the NFL’s coaching carousel continues to have plenty of steam.

Thursday morning, the Miami Dolphins fired Mike McDaniel − just three days after he seemed to express some confidence about his future with the organization. “My understanding is that I am the coach of the Miami Dolphins until I’m told otherwise,’ McDaniel said Monday, when he also expressed his belief he’d be involved in helping to identify Miami’s next general manager while also sharing his thoughts about the offense’s outlook for 2026, which would have been his fifth season.

What changed in South Florida? Most notably, perhaps, was the availability of former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh, fired himself Tuesday after 18 seasons and one Super Bowl win in Charm City and now likely to be as coveted as anyone in the upcoming hiring cycle.

McDaniel’s professional demise brings the number of NFL head coaching openings to eight. The Giants and Titans made changes during the season. The Falcons fired head man Raheem Morris (and GM Terry Fontenot) on Sunday night. Black Monday claimed two-time NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski, former Super Bowl-winning coach Pete Carroll and ex-Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon.

And while more vacancies could yet develop in the coming days and maybe even weeks, let’s assess the eight* jobs that are presently open − ranked from most attractive to least. (*Subject to change.)

1. Baltimore Ravens

Quarterback situation

They don’t come much better than two-time league MVP Lamar Jackson, who’s as dynamic as anyone who’s ever played the position. Naturally, he has detractors − not yet able to win the Super Bowl and more pointed recent questions about his work ethic and relationship with Harbaugh. Jackson also tends to get banged up and misses a lot of practice time. Still, most teams would love to have such problems behind center.

However there’s a major financial issue facing Jackson and the team in the aftermath of what was a massively disappointing season for him personally and the team as a whole. Jackson carries a $74.5 million salary cap number in both 2026 and 2027, the final two years of his five-year, $260 million extension. Those are untenable figures for any team looking to maintain or improve a roster, suggesting some kind of renegotiation or new extension is needed − assuming Jackson remains in Baltimore, which seems a virtual given.

Backup Tyler Huntley is about to hit free agency. Cooper Rush, who was signed to be the primary backup a year ago but struggled when Jackson was out and eventually replaced by Huntley, is signed for the 2026 season but could be a cap casualty.

Roster

Heading into the 2025 season, the Ravens were widely viewed as a team with one of the best talent quotients in the league. Yet it’s fair to say that, while acknowledging its injuries, the team added up to much less than the sum of its parts over the course of an 8-9 campaign. Baltimore wound up with six players earning Pro Bowl honors in a season when Jackson and star RB Derrick Henry didn’t. Kyle Hamilton is arguably the game’s best safety, leading a talent-laden secondary. But there’s clearly work to be done on both lines.

Salary cap

GM Eric DeCosta is set to have about $28 million at his disposal this year, per Over The Cap, putting the team in the upper half of the league in terms of spending power. However Jackson’s contract muddies that outlook. Pro Bowl C Tyler Linderbaum, TE Isaiah Likely, Pro Bowl P Jordan Stout, S Alohi Gilman, LB Kyle Van Noy and Pro Bowl FB Patrick Ricard are among the pending free agents.

2026 NFL draft

Baltimore is scheduled to pick 14th in the first round this year, which would match the earliest spot it has selected in the past decade. Given the roster holes free agency is likely to create, DeCosta is likely to have a busy offseason.

Outlook

As currently constructed, the Ravens remain one of the league’s most formidable teams − yet probably one that needed a new voice and philosophy after Harbaugh held sway for nearly two decades. He maintained them as a near-perennial contender and won Super Bowl 47 but has been dogged in recent years by rampant tactical failures and repeated challenges holding onto fourth-quarter leads. The organization should have its pick from plenty of qualified candidates, but the main priority may be finding someone who will jibe with Jackson while getting the rest of the roster to play all the way up to its estimable potential.

2. New York Giants

Quarterback situation

Jaxson Dart’s rookie season was a mixed bag, his swagger a nice fit in the Big Apple even if his typically reckless on-field approach too often undermined his health and availability. After the Giants traded back into last year’s first round to obtain Dart, it will be incumbent on the next coach and his staff to rein in the young slinger enough to reasonably protect himself while also giving him sufficient leeway to leverage his multi-dimensional play-making ability and get this offense truly humming. Russell Wilson’s one-year stay is up, but Jameis Winston remains in 2026 as one of the league’s top backups.

Roster

The team’s enviable young core is damaged but not irreparably so. Incandescent WR Malik Nabers (ACL) and rookie RB Cam Skattebo (ankle) didn’t survive the 2025 season. OLB Abdul Carter, the third overall pick of last year’s draft, could wind up being the best player on the team – but he’s got plenty to work on in terms of his professionalism, on and off the field. Veteran OLB Brian Burns, DL Dexter Lawrence II and LT Andrew Thomas are all Pro Bowl-caliber players. The defense needs extensive work behind its front, and Thomas is the only player whose name should be written in pen on the O-line … when he’s healthy enough to play.

Salary cap

GM Joe Schoen, who’s running the coaching search and will retain his post despite coach Brian Daboll’s firing in November, is currently set to have about $11 million in cap space. It’s a figure that has the Giants middle of the pack league-wide, but the clubs above them have significantly more spending power – especially if they decide to target WR Wan’Dale Robinson, who’s coming off his first 1,000-yard season, or frontline Cor’Dale Flott, who are both headed for free agency.

2026 NFL draft

In contention for the No. 1 overall pick barely a week ago, the Giants will now select fifth in this year’s first round. They still owe the Houston Texans their third-rounder to consummate last year’s draft night deal to get Dart.

Outlook

Despite largely residing in the wilderness since they won Super Bowl 46 to cap the 2011 season, the Giants remain one of the league’s flagship franchises and a plum job – even if the organizational stability they boasted for years seems to have largely evaporated. Schoen has made questionable decisions during the draft and free agency but has also amassed an ample amount of talented players to win – and maybe fairly quickly if the right coach is able to translate potential into production.

3. Cleveland Browns

Quarterback situation

Insert shrug emoji? As much national interest as they generated in 2025, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders − mostly Sanders − were a mixed bag as rookies. They have fairly distinct skill sets, yet both flashed their positive traits while also raising enough questions to suggest neither is likely to be instantly anointed QB1 in 2026 by Stefanski’s successor. Deshaun Watson is under contract for one more season – for a fully guaranteed $46 million – and returned to practice late in the season after undergoing multiple Achilles surgeries after originally being injured during the 2024 season. He could obviously rejoin the mix, yet also (still) seems like a problematic figure – in a football context and otherwise – as the next staff tries to get this club back to the playoffs. Going fishing for another option in the 2026 draft is certainly on the table.

Roster

It’s fair to call DE Myles Garrett legendary at this point, and he might legitimately be the best player in the NFL. He’s also one whose prime is being wasted and only a year removed from requesting a trade after expressing a belief he’d never win a Super Bowl in Cleveland – which tracks given no player ever has. Yet there’s a lot to like around Garrett, particularly a highly promising 2025 draft class that includes DT Mason Graham, LB Carson Schwesinger, TE Harold Fannin Jr., WR Isaiah Bond, RBs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson … and maybe one or both quarterbacks. WR Jerry Jeudy and CB Denzel Ward are generally among the league’s better players at their respective positions, though 2025 wasn’t a banner year for either. With Gs Wyatt Teller and Joel Bitonio out of contract, it’s high time to reconstruct the offensive line – particularly if GM Andrew Berry and the next coach target another young QB.

Salary cap

Currently, Berry will need to trim more than $12 million to simply be cap-compliant once free agency starts, and he and the team won’t get relief from ownership’s Watson gaffe for another year – whether or not he’s on the roster in 2026. TE David Njoku is the most high-profile pending free agent, but Fannin and the cap crunch likely make him expendable.

2026 NFL draft

The Browns own the sixth overall pick this year plus the first-rounder of the Jacksonville Jaguars, wherever that lands. Berry could put together a package to target a specific quarterback, but such a gambit could be quite expensive given what appears like a dearth of high-end prospects at the position this year. And continuing to load up on needed talent elsewhere wouldn’t be a bad fallback as Cleveland resets − while also potentially giving Sanders, Gabriel or someone else the opportunity to run with the reins a little longer.

Outlook

Dismissing Stefanski was a bold (and perhaps misguided) choice given what he’d accomplished despite the drawbacks of this job – especially after he and Berry got saddled with Watson and had to prematurely offload Baker Mayfield. Moving forward, quarterback remains the obvious issue holding back a team that will likely continue to look up at the rest of the AFC North until it’s solved. But, if it gets rectified by Berry and the next coach in short order, this team could emerge as a powerhouse in almost no time.

4. Tennessee Titans

Quarterback situation

Cam Ward, the No. 1 pick of the 2025 draft, was basically treated to a learning experience as a rookie. He was hamstrung by the lack of talent around him, to say nothing of the consequential chaos that firing coach Brian Callahan at midseason created. Ward made his fair share of mistakes, too, taking way too many sacks – which certainly isn’t to suggest all of the league-high 55 he absorbed were his fault – while also regularly reverting to his college habit of trying to extend plays that probably wouldn’t have good outcomes under most circumstances. But given the challenges he faced, it’s hard to give Ward a fair evaluation for 2025 – and, to his credit, he remained accountable and didn’t back away from the leadership chops that helped make him such a coveted prospect to begin with.

Will Levis, the 33rd overall pick of the 2023 draft, presents an interesting dilemma. This team obviously belongs to Ward, which would theoretically make Levis, who’s under contract for 2026, somewhat intriguing trade bait entering an offseason when quarterback-needy teams may not have a lot of alternatives. But he’s also coming off surgery to his throwing shoulder, which kept him on injured reserve for all of 2025. It might be worth trying to showcase Levis in the preseason in hopes of getting something in return for him.

Roster

Ward needs to be a foundational piece and should get at least another two years to prove as much. Otherwise, there’s not much to hang your hat on here aside from Pro Bowl DT Jeffery Simmons, whom the team refused to trade at last year’s deadline, and maybe OL Peter Skoronski. Much of the damage here was done via misguided forays into free agency by the front office that preceded first-year GM Mike Borgonzi.

Salary cap

Borgonzi is projected to have upwards of $105 million to spend in free agency this year, more fiscal resourcing than any other team has. However he’d probably be wise to be far more measured than his predecessors given this team seems at least a year away from being a year away. Borgonzi’s time in Kansas City would suggest he’ll spend intentionally in the short term while establishing a new culture as he focuses on drafting the players who will need to get the Titans off the mat.

2026 NFL draft

Tennessee’s 3-14 record once again tied for the league’s worst. But this year, the tiebreakers didn’t pan out in Borgonzi’s favor, the Titans slotted with the No. 4 pick. They’ll certainly get an excellent prospect, just no opportunity to leverage the value of a first or second overall selection.

Outlook

Borgonzi should have plenty of discretion to chart a path as he now gets to pick his own guy to run the team. But it will be interesting to see how things play out given the disconnect in the recent past between former coach Mike Vrabel, the front office and ownership. And there probably will be some pressure to try and microwave a winner here as the franchise plans to move into its new stadium in 2027 − preferably with a bang.

5. Las Vegas Raiders

Quarterback situation

It’s bad. Right now. The decision to trade for and extend Geno Smith last year smacked of an organization unwilling to embrace an obviously needed rebuild. Aidan O’Connell and Kenny Pickett seem like quality backups at best – and there’s probably not much reason for Pickett to re-sign here. All that aside, a team that holds the No. 1 pick of the 2026 draft seems almost certain to invest anew at the position, whether it’s for Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza or someone else.

Roster

It’s bad. Right now. Pro Bowl DE Maxx Crosby has long been a loyal warrior, but even he was disillusioned by the end of the 2025 campaign given how his injury situation was handled. Kolton Miller is a solid left tackle. He’s also 30 and missed 13 games this season. Recent first-rounders Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty should be cornerstones – but good luck finding a winner that was built around a tight end and running back, respectively … and the decision to select Jeanty sixth overall last year deserves even more scrutiny now than it did at the time.

Salary cap

It’s great. Right now. The Raiders also have upwards of $100 million in their free agency coffers. But whether it’s minority owner Tom Brady or GM John Spytek who earmarks those funds, they’d be wise to not throw more good money after bad at a talent deficit that obviously requires longer-term thinking and an infusion of young players from the draft.

2026 NFL draft

Vegas won’t pick atop every round but pretty close to it. The Raiders also picked up a fourth-rounder for dealing WR Jakobi Meyers, who was unabashedly eager to leave Sin City, at the trade deadline. The big question is whether they actually pull the trigger for a quarterback off the top … or try to flip the pick and address their numerous needs elsewhere before replacing Smith in earnest further down the road.

Outlook

This operation is nicely set up to rise from the ashes … provided it recognizes it’s covered in ashes and shouldn’t be pursuing coaches in their seventies. But it’s also worth monitoring how things proceed. It’s widely assumed Brady is calling a lot of the shots behind the scenes even as Spytek and Carroll were the ones front and center answering questions about the franchise’s direction and philosophy − and still hard to say what those are exactly after a categorically disastrous and wasted year.

6. Atlanta Falcons

Quarterback situation

Uh, yeah. What seemed like a powder keg two years ago when Fontenot signed Kirk Cousins to a massive free agent contract before taking oft-injured Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall in the 2024 draft – without revealing that strategy to Cousins from the jump – has indeed blown up in this franchise’s face. Penix hardly set the league on fire in his second season and is now dealing with his latest ACL injury, one that seems likely to keep him off the field at the start of next season. Meanwhile, Cousins now knows he’s a placeholder but may very well be needed in that role given the unknowns with Penix. However Cousins does only have $10 million guaranteed remaining on the final two years of his contract, which should theoretically make him far easier to trade or release if the next regime so chooses.

Roster

There are certainly some studs in house. RB Bijan Robinson, WR Drake London and G Chris Lindstrom all rank among the best players at their respective positions – Robinson seemingly on the cusp of being one of the league’s faces. Rookie pass rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. and S Xavier Watts gave the defense a much-needed boost and should form its nucleus for years to come. The cupboard’s hardly bare beyond that, though much will depend on how the existing depth chart aligns with the preferences of the next decision makers.

Salary cap

Fontenot’s replacement will have to trim about $4 million off the books before free agency begins in March, a pretty easy lift. The issue is that Atlanta has little bandwidth to retain pending free agents like TE Kyle Pitts, OLB Arnold Ebiketie or RB Tyler Allgeier – a valuable sidekick who spares Robinson a lot of the harder miles. London is already somewhat overdue for a contract extension, and Robinson is newly eligible for one – and his price tag could get astronomical, relative to his position, the longer the team waits to reward him. Unloading Cousins in some fashion would cause a lot of money to flow back into the budget – but such a decision obviously comes with its own ramifications.

2026 NFL draft

A year after the shocking selection of Penix, Fontenot dealt back into the bottom of the 2025 draft’s first round for Pearce – and he unequivocally has the makings of a good player, leading the Falcons with 10½ sacks. But the opportunity cost of what seemed like something of a desperate reach at the time is the loss of this year’s Round 1 choice – No. 13 overall – which now belongs to the Los Angeles Rams. Fontenot also spent this year’s fifth-rounder in a separate trade in 2025 – but that’s aging well so far given it put Atlanta in position to choose Watts.

Outlook

The quarterbacking morass is a major issue – and that probably would have been the case even if Penix was fully healthy. There are some enticing components of this roster, though another of Fontenot’s unorthodox strategies – which hasn’t borne the desired results – was pouring so much first-round capital into offensive skill players. The good news is that winning the NFC South should remain a bar that’s not all that difficult to clear – and Atlanta was only one win shy of doing it this season. But whether or not the Falcons are sensibly constructed for the long haul is another question entirely, as desperate as 83-year-old owner Arthur Blank is to win the franchise’s first Super Bowl.

7. Arizona Cardinals

Quarterback situation

Unclear as it was whether deposed Gannon would move forward with Kyler Murray, it’s equally unclear if another coaching staff would embrace a player who tends to freelance and hasn’t done much to craft a rep as the locker room CEO most successful NFL quarterbacks are. Murray is guaranteed $36.8 million in 2026, and cutting him would incur a cap hit of nearly $55 million – though that’s hardly prohibitive in this era of the ballooning salary scale. A decision on his future could be further accelerated given nearly $20 million more will be guaranteed to Murray in 2027 if he remains on the roster on March 15. The two-time Pro Bowler and top pick of the 2019 draft is also only 28 and might yet fetch something on the trade market – especially if the Cards are willing to eat some money to facilitate a transaction.

But moving on from him – if that winds up being the eventual course of action – isn’t as daunting a prospect on the field given career backup and occasional bridge QB Jacoby Brissett remains under contract after operating the offense at a much higher efficiency level than Murray did in 2025.

Roster

The makings of a really good passing game are in place (though a more balanced offense would likely benefit the greater good). Trey McBride has emerged as the league’s best receiving tight end, WR Michael Wilson was a revelation late in the season, and Paris Johnson is a top-shelf left tackle. WR Marvin Harrison Jr. continues to be something of a disappointment – especially relative to draft mates like Nabers, Brian Thomas Jr. and even Ladd McConkey. First-round DL Walter Nolen III only appeared in six games before suffering a season-ending knee injury. Elsewhere, OLBs Josh Sweat and Zaven Collins had solid seasons. Otherwise, there’s a lot of work to be done here on both sides of the ball.

Salary cap

Similar to the Giants, GM Monti Ossenfort has some spending power with a projected $21 million budget. While that’s much more than some teams have, it’s a lot less than those that are shaping up as the significant free agent power brokers in 2026. Murray’s situation also seems bound to have further impact here.

2026 NFL draft

Ossenfort has a full complement of picks, including No. 3 overall – though that would likely force him to reach for a quarterback this year if that’s the way the franchise wants to go. Like the three other 3-14 teams from the 2025 season, the Cards will rotate near the top of every round.

Outlook

It appeared like they were building toward a positive crescendo under Gannon. But Murray’s health – and whatever else is going on there – a torrent of other injuries and simple bad luck (in the form of eight losses by one score) caused the bottom to fall out over the past few months. Arizona’s issues are further amplified by its membership in the NFC West, which currently serves as the home of three of the league’s very best teams. The road back to relevance here seems to remain long and winding.

8. Miami Dolphins

Quarterback situation

McDaniel’s departure, which comes two months after former GM Chris Grier and the team divorced, does seemingly pave the way for what seems like the inevitable exit of QB Tua Tagovailoa as well. The 2020 first-rounder not only had his worst season on the field since his rookie year, benched after Week 15, he also made a habit of airing the locker room’s dirty laundry. Tagovailoa signed a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension ($167.2 million of it guaranteed) before the 2024 season. Compensated at $53.1 million annually on average, he currently ranks sixth on the league’s QB compensation scale … but was nowhere near No. 6 from a performance perspective.

Cutting him this year triggers close to $100 million in dead cap money whether it’s eaten entirely in 2026 – the requisite $99.2 million hit would establish a new record among cap financial mistakes – or spread over two years. There is a $15 million option due in March that the Fins could trigger to mildly assuage the financial fallout for Tagovailoa, whose contract has $54 million guaranteed in 2026. His pact, combined with a troublesome concussion history, make him virtually untradeable. But with a complete leadership turnover at the top of the organization, swallowing the bitter financial pill that would come with cutting Tua, who’s expressed a desire for a fresh start, now seems far more palatable. And logical.

Coming off their rookie seasons, Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller are the only quarterbacks on the roster currently under contract for 2026. Ewers did a solid enough job in his three-game audition following Tagovailoa’s benching.

Roster

There’s some talent in place, but it’s worth wondering how much of it might be going out the door in the coming weeks and months. WR Jaylen Waddle and, especially, RB De’Von Achane are dangerous playmakers − though it’s worth wondering if they might have more value as trade commodities given the new direction the Dolphins have signaled. Selloffs are probably less feasible for DT Zach Sieler, S Minkah Fitzpatrick and OLB Bradley Chubb, who will also be at least 30 this year and come with hefty contracts. WR Tyreek Hill, who dislocated his knee in September, is owed $36 million (none of it guaranteed) in the final year of his contract − circumstances almost certain to lead to his release. OLB Chop Robinson and C Aaron Brewer could be players to build around.

Salary cap

Miami is currently more than $23 million over budget on its 2026 cap. Dumping Hill would balance the books, however parting with Tagovailoa would add $11 million to the deficit − if he’s designated as a post-June 1 cut. Otherwise, his release would accelerate another $42.8 million alone onto this year’s expenditures. Not pretty. But at least this won’t be a team that should be looking to make a free agency splash in 2026 anyway.

2026 NFL draft

A 7-10 season confers the 11th overall pick this year − certainly a range that should bring a very good player if not one likely to step in immediately at quarterback, assuming Tagovailoa isn’t long for Miami. Grier acquired an additional third-rounder from Houston during last year’s draft, and interim GM Champ Kelly picked up another one for dealing OLB Jaelan Phillips at the trade deadline. Helpful assets, if not to Grier or Kelly.

Outlook

Miami hasn’t won a playoff game in more than 25 years, the longest dry spell in the league. Tagovailoa briefly seemed like the guy to stop the revolving door behind center that’s spun almost perpetually since Dan Marino retired after the 1999 season. Those will remain clear and present challenges for the next administration, which likely faces a very daunting 2026 − when the successful establishment of an improved culture is probably the most important win this team can hope for. But after that? It’s certainly not difficult to recruit NFL players to Miami, it’s just going to remain a matter of getting the right ones.

ST. LOUIS — The ‘Quad God’ has entered the chat at the 2026 U.S. figure skating championships. And punctuated his entry with a fist pump.

Malinin completed two quadruple jumps, including a quad Lutz, and a back flip en route to posting a first-place 115.10. Second-place Tomoki Hiwatashi earned a 89.26 and third-place Jason Brown posted an 88.49.

“I just came into this competition just to see what happens out there and I impressed myself, I didn’t know I could skate that good,’ Malinin said after.

Milan Magic: Listen on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The three-time defending U.S. champion will almost certainly make it four in a row after his free skate Saturday, setting him up for a mega 2026 Winter Olympics, which’ll be his first.

To start the day’s action, the dominant ice dance duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates put on a spectacular rhythm dance to capture first place with a whopping 91.70. They are aiming to capture their fifth straight U.S. crown.

On Friday, Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu and Isabeau Levito take the ice to settle the women’s championship while Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov vie to close out the pairs championship.

Here are all the highlights, scores, reactions and standings from Day 2 of nationals.

Ilia Malinin’s short program

Malinin gave a fist pump when he wrapped, and the crowd started tossing stuffies of Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon onto the ice.

Maxim Naumov’s emotional short program

It was one of the most anticipated programs of the night. The championships were going to be emotional for Maxim Naumov, who lost his parents in the January 2025 plane crash that devasted the skating community.

It wasn’t the cleanest performance, but that didn’t matter. The crowd rallied behind him and he closed out strong, receiving a standing ovation as he sat on the ice.As he awaited his score, he held up a photo of him as a kid with his parents, holding their hands, all three on an ice rink.

Naumov received a score of 85.72, putting him in first place. He looked stunned and cried, holding the picture and kissing it for one of the most emotional moments of the week.

U.S. figure skating championships results, men’s short program scores

Here are the standings after the men’s short program.

Ilia Malinin: 115.10 total segment score, 67.15 technical elements score, 47.95 program components score.
Tomoki Hiwatashi: 89.26 total segment score, 47.62 technical elements score, 41.64 program components score.
Jason Brown: 88.49 total segment score, 42.82 technical elements score, 45.67 program components score.
Maxim Naumov: 85.72 total segment score, 44.57 technical elements score, 41.15 program components score.
Andrew Torgashev: 84.99 total segment score, 44.48 technical elements score, 41.51 program components score.
Daniel Martynov: 81.63 total segment score, 43.15 technical elements score, 38.48 program components score.
Jacob Sanchez: 81.27 total segment score, 41.79 technical elements score, 39.48 program components score.
Liam Kapeikis: 78.87 total segment score, 40.38 technical elements score, 38.48 program components score.
Kai Kovar: 76.91 total segment score, 40.16 technical elements score, 36.75 program components score.
Lucius Kazanecki: 75.72 total segment score, 40.71 technical elements score, 35.01 program components score.
Jimmy Ma: 75.56 total segment score, 37.50 technical elements score, 38.06 program components score.
Goku Endo: 72.68 total segment score, 35.10 technical elements score, 37.58 program components score.
Lorenzo Elano: 71.65 total segment score, 35.36 technical elements score, 37.29 program components score.
Samuel Mindra: 65.02 total segment score, 29.70 technical elements score, 36.32 program components score.
Emmanuel Savary: 60.21 total segment score, 25.19 technical elements score, 35.02 program components score.
Michael Xie: 59.95 total segment score, 26.13 technical elements score, 33.82 program components score.
Will Annis: 54.95 total segment score, 24.16 technical elements score, 31.79 program components score. He had a one-point deduction for a fall.
Ken Mikawa: 51.69 total segment score, 23.93 technical elements score, 28.76 program components score. He had a one-point deduction for a fall.

Ilia Malinin on his short program

Malinin on how his short program makes him feel: ‘This short program is really emotional for me, and I get this feeling of I go through these different battles, these different fights or emotions of just feelings or processes of life, and it’s really just an emotional piece. Both this and the long program are really just spiritually and the feeling of it is so deep, and I really want the audience to feel that.’

‘Quad God’ of figure skating: Ilia Malinin’s nickname

Simply put, Ilia Malinin has the greatest array of jumps any figure skater in history has ever possessed. He’s launched himself into the air for seven quadruple jumps in a single long program at last month’s Grand Prix Final and was the first skater to land a quad Axel.

Malinin’s username used to be Lutz God, but he changed it to Quad God after landing his first quad jump. 

“i didn’t think much about it … Days go by and people started asking, ‘Why’d you name yourself Quad God, you only landed one jump,’’ he said on Milan Magic, USA TODAY’s new Olympics podcast that drops its first episode Saturday. ‘And then I was like, ‘Oh, OK maybe I should be come a Quad God.’ From there I found my rhythm of landing quad after quad after quad and then of course landing the first quad axel.”

“In the most humble way possible, I think it’s definitely helped my confidence in not only to skating in general but just feeling like I deserve to be recognized as who I am.”

Madison Chock and Evan Bates put up season-best performance

Another rhythm dance, another night starting off with a bang.

Madison Chock and Evan Bates continued their U.S. championship dominance with an elite performance to their Lenny Kravitz medley, catapulting themselves to the top of the leaderboard with a score of 91.70, a season-best mark.

It gives them a healthy margin after the first night of skating in the ice dance, nearly six points ahead of the second place team of Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko. It’s common for Chock and Bates to take a big, early lead, this time putting them in great position for a fifth-straight U.S. title.

Ilia Malinin’s parents

Malinin was born into figure skating. His mother, Tatiana Malinina, is from the Soviet Union, Siberia specifically, and competed at 10 consecutive world figure skating championships for Uzbekistan. She finished eighth at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, the competition in which Tara Lipinski won the gold medal and Michelle Kwan the silver. Malinina finished fourth at the 1999 world championships as well, and she also competed at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, but withdrew after the short program with the flu.

Malinin’s father, Roman Skorniakov, represented Uzbekistan at the same two Olympics, 1998 and 2002, finishing 19th both times. He and Malinina were married in 2000 and became skating coaches in the United States, moving to the Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C., where, in December 2004, Ilia was born. He took the Russian masculine form of his mother’s last name because his parents were concerned that Skorniakov was too difficult to pronounce. 

US figure skating rhythm dance scores, standings

Here are the running standings for rhythm dance.

Madison Chock and Evan Bates: 91.70 total segment score, 53.13 technical elements score, 38.57 program components score.
Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik: 85.98 total segment score, 49.88 technical elements score, 36.10 program components score.
Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko: 83.29 total segment score, 47.86 technical elements score, 35.43 program components score.
Caroline Green and Michael Parsons: 80.55 total segment score, 45.94 technical elements score, 34.61 program components score.
Emily Bratti and Ian Somerville: 79.43 total segment score, 45.88 technical elements score, 33.55 program components score.
Oona Brown and Gage Brown: 75.72 total segment score, 43.07 technical elements score, 32.65 program components score.
Katarina Wolfkostin and Dimitry Tsarevski: 74.99 total segment score, 42.30 technical elements score, 32.69 program components score.
Eva Pate and Logan Bye: 73.54 total segment score, 41.29 technical elements score, 32.25 program components score.
Leah Neset and Artem Markelov: 71.28 total segment score, 40.84 technical elements score, 30.44 program components score.
Maia Shibutani and Alex Shibutani: 71.25 total segment score, 39.66 technical elements score, 31.58 program components score.
Elliana Peal and Ethan Peal: 69.90 total segment score, 39.44 technical elements score, 30.16 program components score.
Amy Cui and Jonathan Rogers: 67.60 total segment score, 38.00 technical elements score, 29.60 program components score.
Isabella Flores and Linus Colmor Jepsen: 66.37 total segment score, 37.82 technical elements score, 28.55 program components score.
Raffaella Koncius and Alexey Shchepetov: 65.15 total segment score, 36.12 technical elements score, 29.03 program components score. The pair had their program interrupted by a music issue at the arena, stopping their program for a few minutes. They went to the referee’s table to discuss where in the program and song they should pick back up.
Vanessa Pham and Anton Spiridonov: 61.41 total segment score, 33.49 technical elements score, 27.92 program components score.

Team USA figure skating roster

The Olympic team will be named on Sunday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. Three men and three women singles skaters will be chosen, as will three ice dance teams and two pairs, 16 athletes in all. The USFS selection process includes past performances, focusing on the athlete’s body of work over the past two seasons.

Ice dancing vs. figure skating

Ice dancing is a type of figure skating that does not feature jumps or lifts. Ice dancing is made up of two segments, the rhythm dance and the free dance.

What Chock and Bates said before tonight’s rhythm dance

Here’s how Evan Bates said they are feeling going into nationals: ‘I think at this point we understand how special and unique the opportunity is to skate at an Olympic Games and this is the last competition before Milan, so we’re using it as a building block, and we’re excited to go out on the ice today.’

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How does Ilia Malinin train for his quad jumps?

Malinin shared with Christine Brennan and Brian Boitano on Milan Magic, USA TODAY’s new Olympics podcast that drops its first episode Saturday, that he likes to skate a full program at least once a day, but that doesn’t mean every jump in that practice session must be a quad. It depends on how his body feels.

“For me, at least the standard base can be all triple jumps, just to keep that stamina, just to keep that stamina in there. But then, of course, depending on how I feel or how the training is going, then I can say, ‘Maybe tomorrow I can go for a full quad layout or maybe do a full quad and the rest can be triples.’ 

“I think the main focus for me is just running the whole program in itself with all the jumps, all the spins and really just getting that muscle memory in your head because I think a lot of the times, especially with me, if I do a certain amount of triple jumps and I feel comfortable with it, then I can go and the quad jumps will get a little easier for me because I’ve been practicing that muscle memory for a while.”

Milan Magic: Listen on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Types of figure skating jumps

Toe jump: A skater drives the toe pick of their non-takeoff foot into the ice to launch themselves into the air and generate momentum into the jump.

Toe loop: A skater takes off backward and lands on the same back edge of their blade.
Lutz: A skater moving backward jumps off the back outside edge of their skate and uses the toe-pick of their other skate to catapult into the air in the opposite direction and lands on the back outside edge of the picking leg.
Flip: A skater launches off the back inside edge of one skate and lands on the back outside edge of the other skate.

Edge jump: A skater takes off not with their toe pick but off the edge of their skate.

Salchow: A skater launches off the back inside edge of one skate and lands on the back outside edge of their other skate.
Axel: The only forward-facing jump, a skater lands on the back outside edge of their non-takeoff foot while traveling backward. The axel is the hardest jump because of the extra half-revolution that comes with a forward takeoff and a backward landing.
Loop: The skater jumps off a back outside edge of their skate and lands on the same edge.

How Jason Brown feels going for third Winter Olympics

In a time where the young stars headline U.S. figure skating, Jason Brown is out to prove he still has it.

The 31-year-old burst onto the scene in 2014, when he went viral and earned a spot on the 2014 Winter Olympics team, eventually winning a bronze medal. Afterward, he thought he would call it quits, but he still had more to give and made it back to the Winter Games in 2022. Again, he thought he was done after that.

But in 2026, Brown is back at it for what could be the last dance. He heads into the 2026 U.S. figure skating championships with a chance to make Team USA for a third time, and he’ll try to do it with something that helped him reach stardom. That something is a blast from the past, and making it to the 2026 Winter Olympics would remain just as special.

ST. LOUIS — Ilia Malinin, the 21-year-old ‘Quad God’ of figure skating, had just finished another typically superlative performance in Thursday night’s men’s short program at the U.S. championships when dozens of black stuffed animals began raining down onto the ice. 

These weren’t the typical teddy bears or the flowers of days past showered upon a skater finishing his or her program. These were — well, what were they exactly? What did it all mean? It looked strange, and oddly menacing. They were all being thrown onto the ice from one side of the arena. Someone along press row wondered aloud if it was a protest of some sort.  

It turns out that NBC and U.S. Figure Skating made the bizarre and cringe-worthy decision to link Malinin’s short program costume to the network’s cross-promotional efforts of the Winter Olympics and the 2025 movie ‘How To Train Your Dragon.’ It turned the moments after Malinin’s program into an NBC promotion on the arena’s big screen. 

Listen to ‘Milan Magic’ on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch full episodes on YouTube or on USA TODAY. The first episode drops Jan. 10.

The black stuffed animals were actually Toothless, the dragon from the movie, in honor of Malinin dressing like the main character. The movie is part of NBC’s Olympic promotion and is available on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service.

Although this was a collaboration between USFS and NBC, according to USFS — including the planting of all the stuffed dragons in the crowd with instructions to throw them when Malinin finished his program — Malinin said he knew nothing about it.

“I was definitely surprised with that,” he said. “I did not expect that. That was definitely not my plan at all. So I was just as surprised as you are for that.”

But he smiled as he stepped off the ice and looked up as the NBC promotion was playing above him on the big screen. “That just made me feel so warm. The Toothless Dragon is like my spiritual animal, so that was just so incredible.” 

Meanwhile, in actual sports news, Malinin performed a sublime short program and landed two quadruple jumps that rocketed him to his highest score ever of 115.10 points, so far ahead of his competitors that he would need to be kidnapped by aliens — hey, it happens in the movies — to not capture his fourth consecutive national title and his first Olympic berth Saturday night. 

He was thrilled with how he skated and where he stands with less than a month to go until he will be competing in the Olympic figure skating team competition in Milan. He talked about the fun, acrobatic moves he puts into his performances, such as his signature “raspberry twist” and back flip. 

“I feel like it’s very useful for the sport to bring in something new, so everyone has something unique to watch,” Malinin said.

That they certainly did Thursday evening, both during his program, and immediately afterward.

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As we enter a new year, we shine a spotlight on the 2026 NBA Draft, which features a loaded class with multiple potential stars set to enter the league.

We are still a couple months away from March Madness and even further from the pre-draft process. But the draft just became more intriguing after the Trae Young trade considering the Atlanta Hawks, currently projected with a top pick, are potentially in the market for a new point guard and might find themselves in a position to select one.

Across the board, meanwhile, several names are already emerging as future game changers in the pros. Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, and AJ Dybantsa have all but locked up three of the top spots. However, some other one-and-done candidates such as Kingston Flemings and Caleb Wilson are knocking on that door as names to know for teams preparing to draft early.

We also have some fun collegiate returners who successfully used the transfer portal to maximize their potential, such as Cameron Carr, Yaxel Lendeborg, Henri Veesaar, and Aday Mara.

What’s also notable about this class: Many of the prospects who previously would have played overseas, such as Hannes Steinbach or Neoklis Avdalas, are centralized to the NCAA. That makes evaluations even easier one-to-one comparisons against similar competition.

Some of the players not on the list that you might have expected to see (Chris Cenac Jr., Isaiah Evans, Meleek Thomas, Dame Sarr, Brayden Burries, and Flory Bidunga) are excluded only because we currently project they will return to college for another season. With NIL money now so massive, there is less urgency than ever for players to declare for the pros.

Expect them to appear on future mock drafts, though, if they do declare for the draft. For now, we are only focusing on the first round.

Our draft order is based on ESPN’s projected records and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.

1. Indiana Pacers: AJ Dybantsa

TEAM: BYU
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Massachusetts
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 19

AJ Dybantsa is not the consensus No. 1 pick right now but that might not last long. He recently became the youngest player in NCAA history with a 30-point triple-double, per FOX Sports. Dybantsa has notched at least 20 points eight games in a row, capable of throwing down windmill dunks in a half-court offense. The freshman is nearly as impactful and active on defense, too. Just one year removed from an appearance in the NBA Finals, the Pacers are now in a position to add one of the top prospects to their rotation once Tyrese Haliburton returns from his Achilles tendon injury. If he keeps playing at this level, given his versatility as a 6-foot-9 scorer and playmaker, he can become a superstar.

2. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Darryn Peterson

TEAM: Kansas
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Ohio
HEIGHT: 6-5
DRAFT AGE: 19

With an unprotected pick acquired from the New Orleans Pelicans in the Derik Queen trade during the 2025 NBA Draft, the Hawks will have a chance to find a great young player to replace Trae Young if Darryn Peterson does not go No. 1 overall. Even though a nagging hamstring injury has limited his minutes for Kansas this season, his ceiling as a floor general projects him as one of the best guards in the league for years to come. Peterson is already advanced well beyond his years and he would change the trajectory of this organization no matter where he is selected.

3. Sacramento Kings: Cameron Boozer

TEAM:Duke
POSITION: Big
BORN: Florida
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 18

The Kings have struggled to find an identity and look destined for one of the top picks in the draft. Duke’s Cameron Boozer should immediately jump off the page for them, and he can potentially contribute right away. Their front office could add a ready-to-win player who has made the game look shockingly easy since he was in high school. That has already translated beyond the wildest expectations to the NCAA. It is worth noting that Boozer makes more sense as a four than as a five, but wherever he plays, he could return tremendous value.

4. Washington Wizards: Caleb Wilson

TEAM: North Carolina
POSITION: Big
BORN: Georgia
HEIGHT: 6-10
DRAFT AGE: 19

When the Wizards evaluate the young talent potentially available to them, like any team drafting early regardless of need, they should have the name Caleb Wilson highlighted and underlined on their big board. As a freshman, he currently leads the nation in dunks, per Bart Torvik. He is also a rebounding machine and Washington should want a reliable double-double in the frontcourt who can make a ridiculously strong defensive impact. He is the type of player who can potentially tie everything together on the court no matter where he is selected.

5. Utah Jazz: Kingston Flemings

TEAM: Houston
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Texas
HEIGHT: 6-4
DRAFT AGE: 19

It is incredibly rare to find a freshman guard capable of putting up eight steals in a game against a high-major opponent, but that is exactly what Houston freshman Kingston Flemings did early in his NCAA tenure against Florida State. But when you add in the fact that he is also scoring and distributing so comfortably and confidently on the other side of the floor, Flemings has certainly made a strong case for himself as a top-tier guard prospect. Now that Keyonte George has emerged as such a valuable player for the Jazz, they could add some more young talent next to him for an exciting backcourt duo of the future. Utah could seriously use his help, too. They currently have the worst defensive rating in the league, per NBA.com.

6. Brooklyn Nets: Mikel Brown Jr.

TEAM: Louisville
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Florida
HEIGHT: 6-5
DRAFT AGE: 20

After the Nets took five bites at the apple in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, they will likely have yet another opportunity to add another difference-maker in the lottery. Brooklyn could have a complicated decision about whether or not it makes sense to add another young guard. But they will seriously consider Louisville freshman Mikel Brown Jr. He still needs to improve his efficiency from the field but has some moments where he looks like a potential NBA All-Star. Brown is excellent at driving and slashing to the rim from the perimeter and he was a serious standout for Team USA during the FIBA U19 World Cup.

7. Charlotte Hornets: Jayden Quaintance

TEAM: Kentucky
POSITION: Big
BORN: Ohio
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 18

Despite getting a late start to the season after transferring from Arizona State, sophomore big man Jayden Quaintance showed immediate flashes once making his debut for Kentucky. He is arguably the most talented defender in this draft class and has an unmistakable presence whenever he is on the court. Quaintance might continue to have a slow start to the season as he recovers from a torn ACL, meniscus injury, and fractured knee. But he is worth every second of that patience for a team that has struggled on defense like the Hornets considering what he can bring to an NBA court.

8. Chicago Bulls: Patrick Ngongba II

TEAM: Duke
POSITION: Big
BORN: Virginia
HEIGHT: 6-11
DRAFT AGE: 20

The Bulls do not have a projected starting center of the future and it might be worth a shot to throw a dart on Patrick Ngongba II, who is a bit underrated at this point in the year but should continue his ascension as the season continues. Ngongba is an above-average passer for his position who is at the top of his game when passing to a cutting perimeter player. He is also a solid rim protector with a strong future as a likely starter and is already on a very encouraging development track, displaying impressive year-over-year improvement from his freshman to sophomore campaign.

9. Dallas Mavericks: Labaron Philon

TEAM: Alabama
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Alabama
HEIGHT: 6-4
DRAFT AGE: 20

The ability to select an NBA-ready guard like Labaron Philon would feel like a dream for the Mavericks, especially as Kyrie Irving gets older, with D’Angelo Russell potentially coming off the books. Philon ranks as one of the NCAA’s leaders in points created either from a basket or an assist. He is a phenomenal pick-and-roll passer who has taken a massive year-over-year leap from his freshman campaign to his sophomore season now that he is shooting much more efficiently on 3-pointers.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Bennett Stirtz

TEAM: Iowa
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Missouri
HEIGHT: 6-4
DRAFT AGE: 22

The Bucks are potentially drafting from a difficult place considering how much uncertainty seems to surround the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo. But while he is a part of the organization, Milwaukee ought to find someone who fits his timeline, and that player is Bennett Stirtz. Despite transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class creating his own shot off the dribble. The Bucks play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who is doing the same at Iowa.

11. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Hannes Steinbach

TEAM: Washington
POSITION: Big
BORN: Germany
HEIGHT: 6-11
DRAFT AGE: 20

It’s remarkable that after winning the 2025 NBA Finals, the Thunder are projected to somehow add even more lottery talent in the 2026 NBA Draft. Yet they are still owed a pick from the Los Angeles Clippers and they could use it to replace Isaiah Hartenstein by drafting a younger German big man: Hannes Steinbach. He is an unbelievable rebounder, especially on the offensive glass, who shined during the FIBA U19 World Cup. This is potentially a bit higher than most others will have him projected at this point in the season, but Oklahoma City’s front office isn’t typically afraid to go against the grain in its draft room. If they like a guy, they’ll call his name, and this is the type of player they typically like.

12. Portland Trail Blazers: Koa Peat

TEAM: Arizona
POSITION: Big
BORN: Arizona
HEIGHT: 6-8
DRAFT AGE: 19

The Blazers have drafted several prospects known for their off-the-charts athleticism, which means players like Koa Peat will probably have some appeal. Add in that Portland assistant general manager Mike Schmitz went to college at Arizona, where Peat is currently thriving, and this seems like an ideal match given his versatility as a playmaking forward. He needs a jumper to carve out minutes as a pro, but if and when that comes along, we’re looking at a long-term rotation player.

13. Memphis Grizzlies: Yaxel Lendeborg

TEAM: Michigan
POSITION: Big
BORN: New Jersey
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 23

Some scouts will have doubts about Yaxel Lendeborg because of his age, but at the end of the day, it is impossible to deny his productivity. He feels like the type of player who fans will look back on and wonder why he was not picked earlier, considering how productive he was, and the Grizzlies tend to wind up with those kinds of players. Lendeborg found the game later in life, only playing 11 total high school basketball games. Now, after transferring from UAB to Michigan, he has become arguably the best player in the NCAA.

14. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Nate Ament

TEAM: Tennessee
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Virginia
HEIGHT: 6-10
DRAFT AGE: 19

Scouts might feel divided about Tennessee freshman Nate Ament, who has struggled with his shooting efficiency in college so far and is not showing much athleticism with very few dunks for someone his height. But with his 6-foot-10 frame and some raw skills that just can’t be taught, it is unlikely he would fall out of the lottery conversation. It only takes one team to fall in love with what he brings to the table and maybe the Spurs could use this pick from the Atlanta Hawks to swing for the fences on someone with his unique upside.

15. Golden State Warriors: Christian Anderson

TEAM: Texas Tech
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Georgia
HEIGHT: 6-3
DRAFT AGE: 20

Perhaps the biggest breakout player on mock drafts and big boards right now is Texas Tech sophomore Christian Anderson. Now playing point guard, Anderson is recording more than twice as many assists per 100 possessions as a sophomore compared to last year’s freshman season. Anderson has turned himself into one of the best scorers and most prolific 3-point shooters in the NCAA, and his game should scale well to the next level – especially playing for a coach known to maximize that, such as Steve Kerr.

16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Suns): Cameron Carr

TEAM: Baylor
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Minnesota
HEIGHT: 6-5
DRAFT AGE: 21

One of the players who has improved his draft stock the most since the season began is Baylor junior Cameron Carr. He checks multiple boxes as someone who is able to dunk and shoot from beyond the arc at a high clip, while also providing high-end value as a defender by using his 7-foot-2 wingspan. Carr is athletic, versatile, efficient and impactful enough to find a role on a team smart enough to select him. The Grizzlies have typically done a great job of finding players exactly like that.

17. Toronto Raptors: Darius Acuff Jr.

TEAM: Arkansas
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Michigan
HEIGHT: 6-3
DRAFT AGE: 19

Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. is sensational at creating a bucket – for himself or his teammates. He looks like one of the most promising lead guards in the draft, already thriving as a ball handler when operating the pick-and-roll for the Razorbacks. While he is a bit undersized, there is not much else to dislike about his game. He is fast, can throw lobs to teammates, and is shooting well. This is one of the most perfect team-player fits in this mock draft.

18. Charlotte Hornets (via Magic): Keaton Wagler

TEAM: Illinois
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Kansas
HEIGHT: 6-6
DRAFT AGE: 19

While he was not considered a projected one-and-done prospect or even a five-star recruit coming out of high school, Keaton Wagler has burst onto the scene with authority as a superb freshman. He has had a few games with at least 20 points, shooting accurately both off the catch and the dribble. Wagler has also checked other boxes in his stat sheet, rebounding and passing fairly well for his position and rarely turning the ball over.

19. Miami Heat: Neoklis Avdalas

TEAM: Virginia Tech
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Greece
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 20

With his first dozen games playing collegiate basketball, Neoklis Avdalas recorded multiple 30-point performances, while tallying at least six assists in half of those 12 games. Teams tend to fall in love with tall playmakers such as Avdalas, so expect the two-time Greek League Best Young Player to continue to rise on draft boards as the season moves forward and he ends up getting selected by a smart scouting department like the Heat.

20. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Karim López

TEAM: International (Australia)
POSITION: Forward
BORN: Mexico
HEIGHT: 6-8
DRAFT AGE: 19

The Thunder have drafted several players from Australia’s NBL, including Terrance Ferguson, Josh Giddey and Ousmane Dieng. They could return to that well again by selecting Karim Lopez with their pick from the Philadelphia 76ers. While the Mexican-born forward still needs some development, he is widely seen as the top prospect from this class who is currently playing overseas. Even if he is a draft-and-stash player, that is ideal for a team with a rotation as crowded as the Thunder.

21. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Thomas Haugh

TEAM: Florida
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Pennsylvania
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 22

After winning a national championship with the Gators last season, Thomas Haugh was instantly regarded as one of the most interesting players who elected to return to college. He is an incredibly skilled basketball player who does not need the ball in his hands very often to make a difference on the floor for his team and he can serve as a glue guy for an emerging team such as the Hawks.

22. Los Angeles Lakers: Joshua Jefferson

TEAM: Iowa State
POSITION: Big
BORN: Nevada
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 22

For a team that already has Luka Doncic and LeBron James, the freshly revamped scouting department for the Lakers will look for players who can help them win immediately. Do-it-all Iowa State senior Joshua Jefferson perfectly fits that bill. Nothing that he does is particularly flashy, but he can almost certainly contribute for a contender as a truly ready-to-win dribble-pass-shoot forward.

23. Minnesota Timberwolves: Tounde Yessoufou

TEAM: Baylor
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Benin
HEIGHT: 6-5
DRAFT AGE: 20

Baylor freshman Tounde Yessoufou is a force of nature in transition and does not have the same polish in a half-court offense. Still raw, there are a lot of traits to admire about what he might blossom into as he continues his development. Already, however, his athleticism and his defensive playmaking will at least intrigue teams looking to improve their wing depth like the Timberwolves.

25. New York Knicks: Henri Veesaar

TEAM: North Carolina
POSITION: Big
BORN: Estonia
HEIGHT: 7-0
DRAFT AGE: 22

After transferring from Arizona to North Carolina, we have seen a remarkable improvement from Henri Veesaar. The 7-foot big man from Estonia has the archetypal dunks-and-3s shot profile on offense. He is shooting efficiently on both, while also holding his own as a rebounder and passer. Any team looking for a big man who can provide NBA minutes on an expedited timeline, like the Knicks, will have him high on their priority list.

26. Boston Celtics: Aday Mara

TEAM: Michigan
POSITION: Big
BORN: Spain
HEIGHT: 7-3
DRAFT AGE: 21

As the Celtics continue to exceed expectations, they do have some holes to fill in their frontcourt after losing Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford. After selecting Hugo González from Spain in the draft last season, they could potentially target his former FIBA U18 European Championship tournament teammate Aday Mara. The giant 7-foot-3 big man is a fantastic rim protector and he can pass effectively, finding some awesome outlet looks in transition.

26. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Braylon Mullins

TEAM: Connecticut
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Indiana
HEIGHT: 6-6
DRAFT AGE: 19

Braylon Mullins, a five-star recruit and former McDonald’s All-American, missed the start of the season due to an ankle injury. But now that he has returned to action for the Huskies, he has shown what makes him such an appealing player. He is a useful off-ball threat, which gives him an immediately practical role at the next level. The freshman had it all on display against Xavier, scoring 17 points while making five 3-pointers. He also added six rebounds, four assists and two steals during the performance.

27. Denver Nuggets: Tyler Tanner

TEAM: Vanderbilt
POSITION: Guard
BORN: Tennessee
HEIGHT: 6-0
DRAFT AGE: 20

It is unusual to find a 6-foot sophomore projected in the first round of a mock draft, but if there were ever a player who has earned that kind of praise it’s Tyler Tanner. Despite his size, he has found meaningful ways to contribute on both sides of the floor. He can score efficiently, dunk, block shots, steal the ball, and he is more than serviceable as a floor general capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Nuggets. His performance on Jan. 7 against Alabama included 29 points, seven assists and four steals.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Sergio de Larrea

TEAM: International (Spain)
POSITION: Forward
BORN: Spain
HEIGHT: 6-5
DRAFT AGE: 20

It is probably safe to assume that Oklahoma City won’t use all three of its projected first-round picks in the 2026 NBA Draft because the Thunder don’t have the roster space. But if they do, expect to see them linked to a few international players who are potential draft-and-stash candidates such as Sergio de Larrea. While he has slowed down since a hot start to the season for Valencia, he has shot the ball well all season.

29. Detroit Pistons: Milan Momcilovic

TEAM: Iowa State
POSITION: Wing
BORN: Wisconsin
HEIGHT: 6-8
DRAFT AGE: 21

While they are surprisingly one of the best teams in the league this season, the Pistons are still struggling from the perimeter and could use more talented 3-point shooters on their roster. A simple fix would be drafting Iowa State’s Milan Momcilovic, who is having one of the most statistically dominant shooting seasons, both from beyond the arc and from midrange, among any prospect in the nation.

30. Washington Wizards (via Thunder): Morez Johnson Jr.

TEAM: Michigan
POSITION: Big
BORN: Illinois
HEIGHT: 6-9
DRAFT AGE: 20

Morez Johnson Jr. is one of the best, most underrated two-way players in the NCAA. He is a crucial part of the Michigan identity this season and has thrived since transferring to the Wolverines from Illinois. Johnson’s shooting form at the free throw line looks good, and he scores well near the basket even without dunking very often. The former FIBA U-19 Team USA standout is a trustworthy defensive playmaker, too, and should find minutes at the next level.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is the frontrunner to win the NFL MVP award.
Stafford led the NFL with a career-high 46 touchdown passes and 4,707 passing yards this season.
The 37-year-old quarterback overcame an offseason back injury and potential trade talks.

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. – Los Angeles Rams guard Steve Avila still finds it surreal that he’s teammates with Matthew Stafford.

“There are times like I’m like, ‘Wow, that’s Matthew Stafford.’ Like, I was 9 years old when he got drafted,” Avila told USA TODAY Sports. “It is awesome. I mean, especially just with the season that he’s had, and just being able to be a part of that is just amazing.”

Avila’s elementary school recollection of Stafford might make the 37-year-old feel old, but the quarterback’s performed this year like an aging fine red wine.  

Stafford led the NFL and broke a franchise record with a career-high 46 touchdown passes to just eight interceptions. Those 46 touchdowns are the second-most thrown in a single season by an NFL quarterback age 37 or older. Additionally, he became the third player in NFL history with at least 45 touchdown passes and fewer than 10 interceptions in a season, according to NFL Research. His 4,707 passing yards also topped the league.

Stafford threw four touchdown passes in Week 18 alone and became third player in NFL history with multiple touchdown passes in 15 games in a season. He earned his fourth career player of the week honor for his performance in the team’s season finale.

‘He is the MVP’

The Rams quarterback’s statistics indicate he’s defying Father Time, and he might’ve just capped off the best regular season of his career.

Stafford is the frontrunner to win MVP, courtesy of BetMGM as of Jan. 4. For all his plaudits, the Super Bowl 56 champion and three-time Pro Bowler has never won the award.

Rams players believe the award should be added this year to Stafford’s already impressive resume.

“He is the MVP. There’s no ifs ands or buts about it,” Rams running back Blake Corum told USA TODAY Sports. “The season he’s had is ridiculous. The career he’s had is just tremendous.”

MVP voting for the regular season concluded on Monday. The recipient of the award won’t be revealed until the NFL Honors ceremony on Feb. 5.

“I hope everybody has their head screwed on right and knows exactly that he’s the most valuable person in the league,” Avila said.

Stafford had a humble response when asked by USA TODAY Sports about his MVP candidacy and diverted the credit to the team.

“As far as being a candidate, I just wanted to play as good as I possibly can this year like I do every season,” Stafford said. “Obviously, I have great football players around me and coaches around me that give myself and our offense a chance and opportunity to succeed. We were able to do that.”

Stafford: ‘I didn’t know if I would get there’

What makes Stafford’s stellar year even more impressive is what he’s overcome this season – a campaign that almost didn’t happen.

The Rams granted Stafford’s agent permission to speak to other teams about a trade last February, before the sides agreed to a contract restructure later that month. But a subsequent aggravated disk in his back would cause Stafford to miss most of training camp.

“There were some lean moments. It was touch and go there for a little bit,” Stafford recalled. “A lot of treatments and things that I did to try and help myself get to this point. I didn’t know if I would get there but I went out there and it was wait and see, let’s see what happens. Luckily it turned out pretty good.”

Pretty good is an understatement. Stafford started all 17 regular-season games, led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns and is an odds-on favorite to win MVP.

Stafford’s now about to embark on another playoff journey in his fifth season as the Rams QB. Following a 2021 blockbuster trade with the Detroit Lions, Stafford led the Rams to a Super Bowl title his first season in Los Angeles. Stafford and the Rams have their sights set on another Lombardi Trophy, and maybe some additional hardware for the trophy case along the way.

“What a guy that you just watch that is totally present. He’s enjoying the moment and I think that’s when we’re at our best. I think this team has taken on a lot of the great traits, the toughness mentally and physically, and just the overall enjoyment for the chance to go compete, but also the ability to celebrate your teammates. He’s elevated everybody that he’s around, but it’s been really impressive,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. “I wouldn’t say I’m surprised though. This has been consistent for him over the five years that we’ve been together. I’m just grateful to be able to have the opportunity to be partnered up with him.”

Ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates are competing for a record-breaking seventh U.S. championship title.
The pair achieved a season-best score in their rhythm dance at the 2026 U.S. figure skating championships.
Chock and Bates are expected to compete in their fourth Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.
The duo has hinted that this current competitive season, culminating in the Olympics, could be their last.

ST. LOUIS — Pretty soon, U.S. Figure Skating may have to name its national championship ice dance event the “Madison Chock and Evan Bates Invitational.”

It’s mostly a joke, but it just captures the dominance the pair has achieved on home ice. 

Chock and Bates have been on the podium every year since 2013. They have won four straight U.S. ice dance championships, and their six titles overall is tied for the most alongside the great Meryl Davis and Charlie White.

Come Saturday, they could become the sole record holder. Their rhythm dance performance on Thursday at the 2026 U.S. figure skating championships was a sesaon-best.

“It really felt like we were very present and grounded and able to enjoy the energy of the arena and the energy between the two of us,” Chock said. “We felt like this was a great skate and a good stepping stone towards Milan.”

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It’s just the latest feat in what’s been a dominant season for the married couple. Since the start of 2025, they have won all but one of the seven competitions they entered, including winning the Grand Prix final in December for the third straight year. 

But their penchant for consistent approvement from showing to showing has powered this stretch of dominance. Their short program is a Lenny Kravitz medley that is a hard-hitting rock performance that captures the essence of the genre. At Skate America in November, they earned an 84.77, a season-best. Then, at the Grand Prix final in Japan, they bested themselves with an 88.74. 

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Coming into the national championships, Chock said they continued to tweak the performance after Japan. The result? A new season-best score of 91.70 at nationals.

“We made a lot of enhancements to our program and put a lot of focus on our technical turns and technical elements, and when we stepped out on the ice today, it was just about delivering what we had practiced,” Chock said. “We’ve been honing in on all the details and refining all our movements. So when we step on the ice at competition, there’s not a lot to think about, and you can just be very present when you step on the ice and enjoy the moment.”

Chock and Bates are nearly six points ahead of Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik in second place, a comfortable margin to be heading into the free dance on Saturday. And the quality of Chock and Bates’ free dance program could ultimately yield a double-digit victory.

The couple’s return to the Winter Olympics is all but official, making Milano Cortina their fourth Games. The only thing that’s eludes them in their decorated careers is that ice dance Olympic medal after finishing just short of the podium in 2022.

“It’s an Olympic year,” Bates said. “It needs no extra sort of hype or motivation. It’s what we’ve all dreamt of.”

As Chock and Bates inch closer toward achieving a U.S. championship record, it could be the perfect bow on their time as the faces of American ice dance. They have hinted – but not confirmed – this could be their final competitive season, with the Winter Olympics possibly being the final event for them.

It’s given this year’s championship some extra meaning. Bates said “we’ve tried to not get too emotional,” but they are appreciating it.

“We also want to just enjoy that moment, because it’s fleeting and it could very well be the last,” Bates said.

NHL players are returning to the Olympics for the first time since the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.

Countries’ hockey federations had until Dec. 31 to submit their final rosters for the February tournament in Milan, Italy.

Canada announced its roster that day, and the United States, Sweden and Finland made their announcements on Jan. 2. Other countries made announcements afterward.

Finland is the defending champion after winning in 2022 in Beijing. Canada won the last two Olympics involving NHL players in 2010 or 2014.

Here are the Olympic rosters that have been announced so far:

United States

First six named

F Jack Eichel, Vegas Golden Knights
F Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple Leafs
F Brady Tkachuk, Ottawa Senators
F Matthew Tkachuk, Florida Panthers
D Quinn Hughes, Minnesota Wild
D Charlie McAvoy, Boston Bruins

Rest of the team

F Matt Boldy, Minnesota Wild
F Kyle Connor, Winnipeg Jets
F Jake Guentzel, Tampa Bay Lightning
F Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils
F Clayton Keller, Utah Mammoth
F Dylan Larkin, Detroit Red Wings
F J.T. Miller, New York Rangers
F Brock Nelson, Colorado Avalanche
F Tage Thompson, Buffalo Sabres
F Vincent Trocheck, New York Rangers
D Brock Faber, Minnesota Wild
D Noah Hanifin, Vegas Golden Knights
D Seth Jones, Florida Panthers
D Jake Sanderson, Ottawa Senators
D Jaccob Slavin, Carolina Hurricanes
D Zach Werenski, Columbus Blue Jackets
G Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets
G Jake Oettinger, Dallas Stars
G Jeremy Swayman, Boston Bruins

Analysis: If this roster looks familiar, it’s because it’s the USA’s 4 Nations Face-Off one with a few changes. Tage Thompson, Clayton Keller and Seth Jones are the newcomers. There’s plenty of offense (even with Jason Robertson and Cole Caufield not named), and the defense is solid. Quinn Hughes, who was injured and couldn’t play in the 4 Nations, will be a difference-maker. The goaltending should be among the best in the tournament.

Canada

First six named

F Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins
F Connor McDavid, Edmonton Oilers
F Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche
F Brayden Point, Tampa Bay Lightning
F Sam Reinhart, Florida Panthers
D Cale Makar, Colorado Avalanche

Rest of the team

F Macklin Celebrini, San Jose Sharks
F Anthony Cirelli, Tampa Bay Lightning
F Brandon Hagel, Tampa Bay Lightning
F Bo Horvat, New York Islanders
F Brad Marchand, Florida Panthers
F Mitch Marner, Vegas Golden Knights
F Mark Stone, Vegas Golden Knights
F Nick Suzuki, Montreal Canadiens
F Tom Wilson, Washington Capitals
D Drew Doughty, Los Angeles Kings
D Thomas Harley, Dallas Stars
D Josh Morrissey, Winnipeg Jets
D Colton Parayko, St. Louis Blues
D Travis Sanheim, Philadelphia Flyers
D Shea Theodore, Vegas Golden Knights
D Devon Toews, Colorado Avalanche
G Jordan Binnington, St. Louis Blues
G Darcy Kuemper, Los Angeles Kings
G Logan Thompson, Washington Capitals

Analysis: Most of the 4 Nations players return, including the entire defense corps. Second-year standout Macklin Celebrini was named, but Connor Bedard didn’t make the cut. Rugged Tom Wilson and goalie Logan Thompson are among the other newcomers. Jordan Binnington, the 4 Nations-winning goalie who’s struggling this season, could be the No. 1 goalie to start, but Logan Thompson is a solid option if Binnington falters.

Finland

First six named

F Sebastian Aho, Carolina Hurricanes
F Aleksander Barkov, Florida Panthers (injured, won’t play)
F Mikko Rantanen, Dallas Stars
D Miro Heiskanen, Dallas Stars
D Esa Lindell, Dallas Stars
G Juuse Saros, Nashville Predators

Rest of the team

F Joel Armia, Los Angeles Kings
F Mikael Granlund, Anaheim Ducks
F Erik Haula, Nashville Predators
F Roope Hintz, Dallas Stars
F Kaapo Kakko, Seattle Kraken
F Oliver Kapanen, Montreal Canadiens
F Joel Kiviranta, Colorado Avalanche
F Artturi Lehkonen, Colorado Avalanche
F Anton Lundell, Florida Panthers
F Eetu Luostarinen, Florida Panthers
F Teuvo Teravainen, Chicago Blackhawks
F Eeli Toivanen, Seattle Kraken
D Henri Jokiharju, Boston Bruins
D Mikko Lehtonen, Zurich
D Olli Maatta, Utah Mammoth
D Nikolas Matinpalo, Ottawa Senators
D Niko Mikkola, Florida Panthers
D Rasmus Ristolainen, Philadelphia Flyers
G Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Buffalo Sabres
G Kevin Lankinen, Vancouver Canucks

Analysis: Aleksander Barkov’s injury will hurt Finland, but there are plenty of other players. Mikko Rantanen is a big-game player, and Miro Heiskanen is available after missing the 4 Nations. There are a lot of Stars and Panthers players on the roster, which is a good thing considering those teams’ recent playoff runs.

Sweden

First six named

F Gabriel Landeskog, Colorado Avalanche
F Adrian Kempe, Los Angeles Kings
F Lucas Raymond, Detroit Red Wings
F William Nylander, Toronto Maple Leafs
D Rasmus Dahlin, Buffalo Sabres
D Victor Hedman, Tampa Bay Lightning

Rest of the team

F Jepser Bratt, New Jersey Devils
F Leo Carlsson, Anaheim Ducks
F Joel Eriksson Ek, Minnesota Wild
F Filip Forsberg, Nashville Predators
F Pontus Holmberg, Tampa Bay Lightning
F Elias Lindholm, Boston Bruins
F Elias Pettersson, Vancouver Canucks
F Rickard Rakell, Pittsburgh Penguins
F Alexander Wennberg, San Jose Sharks
F Mika Zibanejad, New York Rangers
D Rasmus Andersson, Calgary Flames
D Philip Broberg, St. Louis Blues
D Jonas Brodin, Minnesota Wild
D Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Toronto Maple Leafs
D Gustav Forsling, Florida Panthers
D Erik Karlsson, Pittsburgh Penguins
G Filip Gustavsson, Minnesota Wild
G Jacob Markstrom, New Jersey Devils
G Jesper Wallstedt, Minnesota Wild

Analysis: Plenty of offense, good defense and the impressive Wild goalie tandem are heading to Italy. Joel Eriksson Ek is a shutdown forward, and Gustav Forsling is a shutdown defenseman. Gabriel Landeskog and Victor Hedman are out with injuries.

Czechia

First six named

F Martin Necas, Colorado Avalanche
F Ondrej Palat, New Jersey Devils
F David Pastrnak, Boston Bruins
F Pavel Zacha, Boston Bruins
D Radko Gudas, Anaheim Ducks
G Lukas Dostal, Anaheim Ducks

Rest of the team

F Roman Cervenka, Pardubice
F Radek Faksa, Dallas Stars
F Jakub Flek, Brno
F Tomas Hertl, Vegas Golden Knights
F David Kampf, Vancouver Canucks
F Ondrej Kase, Litvinov
F Dominik Kubalik, Zug
F Lukas Sedlak, Pardubice
F Matej Stransky, Davos
F David Tomasek, Farjestad
D Filip Hronek, Vancouver Canucks
D Michal Kempny, Brynas
D Tomas Kundratek, Trinec
D Jan Rutta, Geneve
D Radim Simek, Liberec
D David Spacek, Iowa (American Hockey League)
D Jiri Tichacek, Karpat
G Karel Vejmelka, Utah Mammoth
G Dan Vladar, Philadelphia Flyers

Analysis: David Pastrnak and Martin Necas are among the league’s top scorers. Dan Vladar is the best of the three goalies, though Lukas Dostal could get the call first. Roman Cervenka will be playing in his fifth Olympics.

Switzerland

First six named

F Kevin Fiala, Los Angeles Kings
F Nico Hischier, New Jersey Devils
F Timo Meier, New Jersey Devils
F Nino Niederreiter, Winnipeg Jets
D Roman Josi, Nashville Predators
D Jonas Siegenthaler, New Jersey Devils

Rest of the team

F Sven Andrighetto, Zurich
F Christoph Bertschy, Fribourg
F Ken Jager, Lausanne
F Simon Knak, Davos
F Philipp Kurashev, San Jose Sharks
F Denis Malgin, Zurich
F Damien Riat, Lausanne
F Sandro Schmid, Fribourg
F Pius Suter, St. Louis Blues
F Calvin Thurkauf, Lugano
D Tim Berni, Geneve
D Michael Fora, Davos
D Andrea Glauser, Fribourg
D Dean Kukan, Zurich
D Christian Marti, Zurich
D J.J. Moser, Tampa Bay Lightning
G Reto Berra, Fribourg
G Leonardo Genoni, Zug
G Akira Schmid, Vegas Golden Knights

Analysis: The first six are a good start, led by two-way center Nico Hischier and Devils teammate Timo Meier. J.J. Moser, named in the second wave, played well enough to earn an eight-year extension.

Slovakia

First six named

F Juraj Slafkovsky, Montreal Canadiens
F Martin Pospisil, Calgary Flames
F Tomas Tatar, Zug
D Erik Cernak, Tampa Bay Lightning
D Martin Fehervary, Washington Capitals
D Simon Nemec, New Jersey Devils

Rest of the team

F Peter Cehlarik, Leksands
F Dalibor Dvorsky, St. Louis Blues
F Marek Hrivik, Vitkovice
F Libor Hudacek, Trinec
F Milos Kelemen, Pardubice
F Adam Liska, Cherepovets
F Oliver Okuliar, Skelleftea
F Pavol Regenda, San Jose Sharks
F Adam Ruzicka, Moscow
F Matus Sukel, Litvinov
F Samuel Takac, Bratislava
D Peter Ceresnak, Pardubice
D Martin Gernat, Yaroslavl
D Michal Ivan, Liberec
D Patrik Koch, Trinec
D Martin Marincin, Trinec
G Adam Gajan, Minnesota Duluth
G Samuel Hlavaj, Iowa (AHL)
G Stanislav Skorvanek, Mountfield

Analysis: Juraj Slafkovsky, the No. 1 overall of the 2022 NHL Draft, was MVP of the non-NHL 2022 Olympics as Slovakia won bronze. Simon Nemec also played on that team, was selected second overall. Tomas Tatar is a former NHL 20-goal scorer.

Germany

First six named

F Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers
F Lukas Reichel, Vancouver Canucks
F Nico Sturm, Minnesota Wild
F Tim Stutzle, Ottawa Senators
D Moritz Seider, Detroit Red Wings
G Philipp Grubauer, Seattle Kraken

Rest of the team

F Alexander Ehl, Mannheim
F Dominik Kahun, Lausanne
F Marc Michaelis, Mannheim
F JJ Peterka, Utah Mammoth
F Tobias Rieder, Munich
F Josh Samanski, Bakersfield (AHL)
F Justin Schutz, Munich
F Wojciech Stachowiak, Syracuse (AHL)
F Frederik Tiffels, Berlin
F Parker Tuomie, Cologne
D Leon Gawanke, Mannheim
D Korbinian Geibel, Berlin
D Lukas Kälble, Mannheim
D Jonas Muller, Berlin
D Moritz Muller, Cologne
D Fabio Wagner, Ingolstadt
D Kai Wissman, Berlin
G Maximilian Franzreb, Mannheim
G Mathias Niederberger, Munich

Analysis: Any team with Leon Draisaitl is dangerous, and Tim Stutzle and Moritz Seider are having impressive seasons. Nico Sturm is a two-way player who’s strong on faceoffs.

Latvia

First six named

F Rodrigo Abols, Philadelphia Flyers
F Teddy Blueger, Vancouver Canucks
F Zemgus Girgensons, Tampa Bay Lightning
D Uvis Balinskis, Florida Panthers
G Elvis Merzlikins, Columbus Blue Jackets
G Arturs Silovs, Pittsburgh Penguins

Rest of the team

F Oskars Batna, Lahti
F Rudolfs Balcers, Zurich
F Roberts Bukarts, Vorarlberg
F Kaspars Daugavins, Kassel
F Martins Dzierkals, Sparta Praha
F Haralds Egle, Karlovy Vary
F Renars Krastenbergs, Olomouc
F Dans Locmelis, Providence (AHL)
F Eriks Mateiko, Hershey (AHL)
F Eduards Tralmaks, Grand Rapids (AHL)
F Sandis Vilmanis, Charlotte (AHL)
D Oskars Cibulskis, Herning
D Ralfs Freibergs, Vitkovice
D Janis Jaks, Karlovy Vary
D Roberts Mamcics, Karlovy Vary
D Kristaps Rubins, Plzen
D Alberts Smits, Mikkeli
F Kristaps Zile, Liberec
G Kristers Gudlevskis, Bremerhaven

Analysis: Not many NHL players, but there are two NHL goalies in Arturs Silovs and Elvis Merzlikins. Defenseman Alberts Smits is eligible for the 2026 draft and played at the world junior championships.

Denmark

First six named

F Oliver Bjorkstrand, Tampa Bay Lightning
F Nikolaj Ehlers, Carolina Hurricanes
F Lars Eller, Ottawa Senators
F Jonas Rondjberg, Henderson (AHL)
D Jesper Jensen Aabo, Klagenfurt
G Frederik Andersen, Carolina Hurricanes

Rest of the team

F Mikkel Aagaard, Skelleftea
F Joachim Blichfeld, Tappara
F Mathias Bau Hansen, Herning
F Nicklas Jensen. Rapperswil-Jonar
F Nick Olesen, Budejovice
F Morten Poulsen, Herning
F Patrick Russell, Cologne
F Frederik Storm, Cologne
F Alexander True, Jyvaskyla
F Christian Wejse, Fischtown
D Nicholas B. Jensen, Fischtown
D Anders Koch, Graz
D Matias Lassen, Iserlohn
D Markus Lauridsen, Pustertal
D Oliver Lauridsen, Turkku
D Phillip Bruggisser, Fischtown
G Frederik Dichow, Jonkoping
G Mads Sogaard, Ottawa Senators

Analysis: Denmark upset Canada at the 2025 world championships, and many of those players are here, including the speedy Nikolaj Ehlers. Frederik Dichow was the goalie in that game. Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen has joined the team.

France

First six named

F Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, Ajoie
F Jordann Perret, Mountfield
F Alexandre Texier, Montreal Canadiens
D Yohann Auvitu, Vitkovice
D Jules Boscq, Hameenlinna
D Hugo Gallet, Kuopio

Rest of the team

F Justin Addamo, Mikkeli
F Charles Bertrand, Vaasa
F Louis Boudon, Mikkeli
F Kévin Bozon, Ajoie
F Stéphane Da Costa, Yekaterinburg
F Aurélien Dair, Grenoble
F Floran Douay, Lausanne
F Dylan Fabre, Pori
F Anthony Rech, Rouen
F Nicolas Ritz, Angers
F Sacha Treille, Grenoble
D Enzo Cantagallo, Marseille
D Florian Chakiachvili, Rouen
D Pierre Crinon, Grenoble
D Enzo Guebey, Davos
D Thomas Thiry, Ajoie
G Julian Junca, Trencin
G Antoine Keller, Ajoie
G Martin Neckar, Langnau

Analysis: Alexandre Texier is the lone NHL player, though Pierre-Edouard Bellemare is a former NHL player. Texier had back-to-back three-point games in early January.

Italy

First six named

F Diego Kostner, Ambri-Piotta
F Daniel Mantenuto, Bolzano
F Tommy Purdeller, Pustertal
D Luca Zanatta, Pustertal
D Thomas Larkin, Schwenningen
G Damian Clara, Brynas

Rest of the team has not been named.