National Sports

DALLAS — Double-digit deficits are becoming just a minor annoyance to the Boston Celtics as they continue their winning ways.

NASHVILLE — With a chance to contribute on special teams, Mattias Ekholm is showing just how dangerous he can be for the Nashville Predators.

Toronto forward Zach Hyman thought linemate Auston Matthews' goal late in the third period should have counted. Unfortunately for him and the Maple Leafs, the officials disagreed.

WASHINGTON — Johnny Gaudreau would rather talk about anything other than his offensive production. He's just making it impossible to avoid.

PITTSBURGH — The Toronto Blue Jays made a move on Monday night to shore up their middle infield. Toronto acquired second baseman Gift Ngoepe in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for cash considerations or a player to be named later.

NEW YORK — A rare jersey from Jackie Robinson's historic rookie season with the Brooklyn Dodgers 70 years ago has sold for $2.05 million at auction.

NEW YORK — Chipper Jones, Jim Thome and Omar Vizquel are among 19 first-time candidates on the Baseball Writers' Association of America ballot for baseball's Hall of Fame. They are joined by Johan Santana and Chris Carpenter.

CALGARY — Defenceman Erin Ambrose and forward Amy Potomak were released from Canada's national women's team on Monday. Twenty-six players remain on Canada's centralization roster: three goaltenders, eight defencemen, and 15 forwards.

VANCOUVER — Travis Green pulled Brock Boeser aside at the Vancouver Canucks' development camp in early July for a frank and honest discussion.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.