What a wild start to the sports season! From EuroBasket’s surprising twists to massive NBA roster moves and a compelling NFL preseason saga, there’s no shortage of drama. We’re also revisiting a pivotal NHL draft that’s still shaping a franchise. Which story has you on the edge of your seat the most?
The opening days of competitive sports have delivered a flurry of unexpected turns and standout performances across multiple leagues, captivating fans from the hardwood courts of EuroBasket to the gridiron and the ice rink. While some top-tier stars underwhelmed, emerging talents and strategic team maneuvers dominated headlines, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead in basketball, football, and hockey. This deep dive explores the key moments and players who shaped the early narrative, including significant NBA developments, NFL preseason highlights, and a critical look back at an impactful NHL draft.
EuroBasket 2025’s inaugural day brought a mix of anticipated outcomes and notable disappointments, particularly concerning some of the NBA’s biggest names. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic, despite securing an impressive 10 rebounds, delivered a surprisingly subdued 11-point offensive performance, a rare quiet outing for the Serbian superstar. Similarly, Latvian favorite Kristaps Porzingis struggled to find his rhythm, managing only 10 points as his host nation fell to Turkey. These initial struggles from prominent Basketball Stars hinted at the unpredictable nature of international competition and the challenges of adapting to different team dynamics.
Amidst the surprising performances, Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic truly seized the spotlight, showcasing his scoring prowess with 18 points in Serbia’s dominant 98-64 victory over Slovenia. His efficiency index of 39 reflected complete control of the game’s interior battle, signaling a potential breakout moment for the young Heat talent on the EuroBasket stage. Adding to the tournament drama, Portugal secured their first victory in the EuroBasket since 2007, a historic moment notably bolstered by the impactful presence of a key Portuguese NBA talent like Neemias Queta, whose influence was undeniable.
Beyond EuroBasket, the NBA News offseason continued to buzz with strategic roster adjustments. The Los Angeles Lakers notably strengthened their frontcourt by signing 7-foot center Kylor Kelley to an Exhibit 10 contract. Kelley, renowned for his rim protection, led the G League in blocks during the 2023-24 season with 85 for the Maine Celtics and was named to the 2024 G League All-Defensive Team, averaging 8.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks. This move provides crucial defensive depth and flexibility, offering head coach JJ Redick a specialist option for interior defense as the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, further fueling Lakers Rumors about their championship aspirations.
The NFL Preseason also generated its share of headlines, with the Buffalo Bills making a surprising decision to waive Frank Gore Jr., the son of the legendary NFL running back. Despite an impressive preseason campaign where he became the only player in the NFL to achieve over 100 rushing yards and 100 receiving yards, Gore Jr. found himself once again off the 53-man roster. This development highlights the fierce competition for roster spots in the league and the tough choices teams face, even when promising young talents demonstrate significant potential, leaving many to wonder if he will return to the practice squad.
Shifting to the ice, a retrospective look at the Montreal Canadiens’ 2021 NHL Draft, the final under general manager Marc Bergevin, reveals a mixed but ultimately impactful legacy. While controversial at the time, certain selections have significantly shaped the team’s current foundation. Joshua Roy, a fifth-round pick, emerged as a major success, becoming one of the Laval Rocket’s top offensive threats and playing a handful of NHL games. Oliver Kapanen, a second-round pick, is also poised to push for a regular bottom-six role, bringing valuable defensive awareness and versatility to the Canadiens’ lineup.
The most notable story from that NHL Draft, Logan Mailloux, a controversial first-round selection, eventually facilitated a trade that brought in Zachary Bolduc, a skilled forward who could become a top-six NHL player. This illustrates how even contentious picks can indirectly benefit a franchise. However, like any draft, it had its misses; Riley Kidney struggled to translate junior production to the professional level, and Dmitri Kostenko remained in Russia. Ultimately, Bergevin’s final draft, despite its complexities, provided key assets that continue to benefit the Canadiens as they build for the future.
