National Sports

TORONTO — The message from the Maple Leafs — and to themselves — has been consistent all season. Head down, one foot in front of the other, don't look too far ahead.

TORONTO — It may only be the second month of the season, but Kevin Gausman felt like he had to put in a playoff-calibre performance Sunday.

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Canucks fell short of their preseason target to return to the Stanley Cup playoffs but a strong second half under new coach Bruce Boudreau has helped trigger a culture change that does offer promise for the club.

MONTREAL — Emotions ran high in Montreal on Sunday as thousands of Guy Lafleur's fans gathered to pay tribute to the Montreal Canadiens legend.

OTTAWA — General manager Pierre Dorion has great faith in the Ottawa Senators but isn't making any bold predictions regarding their potential next season. It’s likely because Dorion has learned from past mistakes.

MADRID (AP) — Novak Djokovic said he is “heartbroken” for his former coach Boris Becker after the tennis great was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison in Britain for illicitly transferring large amounts of money and hiding assets after he was declared

CALGARY — The Calgary Flames were in a similar position not that long ago. Heading into the NHL playoffs armed with a high seed after a stellar regular season, the post-season flop of 2019 was a lesson learned for 2022.

EDMONTON — As the Edmonton Oilers prepare for another playoff run, they're looking to their toughest stretch of the season for strength.

LANGFORD, B.C. — The weather co-operated for Canada’s critical matchup against World No. 1-ranked Australia on Saturday evening. The competition was a little more stingy.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Canada captain Christine Sinclair recorded career regular-season goal No. 55 for Portland as the Thorns blanked the Kansas City Current 3-0 in their NWSL season opener Saturday.