Guardian US contributors' bold sports predictions for 2026
Guardian US contributors have put forward a series of bold predictions for the sports world in 2026, covering various sports and major trends.
They foresee Luka Dončić's relationship with JJ Redick fracturing publicly due to disagreements over defense and team chemistry in Los Angeles. In hockey, Auston Matthews' tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs is predicted to conclude in 2026 despite his recent contract extension and role as captain.
In college sports, the growing pressures of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies, transfer portals, and travel costs may lead several major colleges to drop certain sports and possibly move some programs to Division III.
The sports industry as a whole may face a decline in its previously infinite growth curve, as streaming rights become increasingly fragmented. This could result in shrinking audiences and advertising revenues due to a rising number of games being placed behind paywalls.
Major League Baseball (MLB) is expected to avoid a full work stoppage through 2027 by negotiating a settlement despite lockout threats. The era of stadium giveaways might end, fueled by growing political backlash against public subsidies for private stadiums.
Lastly, the Dallas Mavericks might see a change in ownership if Miriam Adelson opts to sell the team following fallout related to the Luka Dončić trade. Concurrently, a new basketball star, Audi Crooks, a 21-year-old from Iowa State, is anticipated to become a household name as a top scorer with notable crossover appeal.
