National Sports

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Canucks newest defenceman knows there are some high expectations as he enters his pro-hockey career. But right now, 19-year-old Quinn Hughes just wants to get back on the ice.

PERTH, Scotland — Team Jennifer Jones will replace Team Rachel Homan at the Curling World Cup Grand Final this May in Beijing. Jones and third Kaitlyn Lawes will be joined by two substitute players at the May 8-12 competition.

TORONTO — Serge Ibaka had yet to address his teammates Wednesday about the fight that cost him three games. But head coach Nick Nurse was asking the Toronto Raptors to stand behind their quick-tempered centre.

Canadian snowboarder Laurie Blouin has made her mark on the slopestyle scene. Her recent big air success has been a nice bonus.

Calgary's Cavalry FC has signed English defender Jonathan (Jay) Wheeldon, younger brother of coach Tommy Wheeldon Jr.

No. 17 at TPC Sawgrass is one of the signature holes on the PGA Tour.

Eric Lapointe hasn't been approached by the Wetenhall family about purchasing the Montreal Alouettes, but remains a phone call away from trying to make it happen.

Brock McGillis was impressed with how proactively the Toronto Maple Leafs handled allegations that a homophobic slur had been uttered during their game against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Monday night.

SARASOTA, Fla. — Right-hander Marcus Stroman will get the start on opening day for the Toronto Blue Jays. Manager Charlie Montoyo confirmed the decision before Wednesday's pre-season game against the Baltimore Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium.

Ottawa Senators all-star defenceman Thomas Chabot has been sidelined with a broken toe, with his status listed as week to week. Chabot suffered the injury while blocking a shot on Monday night in Philadelphia.