National Sports

LOS ANGELES — What jinx? Sports Illustrated boldly predicted an Astros' World Series title on its cover in 2014 — after Houston had lost more than 100 games for three straight years — proclaiming: "Your 2017 World Series Champs.

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Playing on the road against a quality opponent while trying to break out of a losing skid is just the kind of situation the Toronto Maple Leafs brought Patrick Marleau in for.

Wednesday's Games MLB World Series Houston 5 L.A.

Wednesday's Games MLB World Series Houston 5 L.A.

LOS ANGELES — George Springer hit so many clutch home runs, he was a clear pick for World Series MVP. He often was the Most Vocal Person, too — and that might be the most remarkable part of his story.

DENVER — Nikola Jokic received some playful ribbing for his errant, behind-the-back pass on a fast break late in the first half. On this night, that was about all that went wrong for the Denver Nuggets.

EDMONTON — A game against the struggling Edmonton Oilers was what they Pittsburgh Penguins needed to get their road trip back on track.

TORONTO — It's been a record-breaking season for Alex Singleton. The six-foot-two, 235-pound linebacker has helped anchor a Calgary Stampeders defence that's tops in the CFL in fewest offensive points allowed (17.

OTTAWA — Home ice hasn't exactly been an advantage for the Ottawa Senators this season. After eight games the Senators are just 2-2-4 in the confines of the Canadian Tire Centre. In comparison, Ottawa is 3-0-1 on the road.

VANCOUVER — Brian Boyle says he wakes up every day thinking about hockey. After a difficult six weeks, the New Jersey Devils forward will be back playing the game he loves on Wednesday night.