Author: Mike Brehm, USA TODAY

For the second consecutive game, bat invades court at San Antonio’s AT&T Center, but this time, the Spurs’ mascot, The Coyote, was ready.

Boston Bruins forward Trent Frederic, playing his first NHL game, crushes Winnipeg Jets’ Brandon Tanev as rookie’s parents cheer and high-five.

Arizona Coyotes rookie Conor Garland has puck go into net off his face, returns after being stitched up and scores game-winner vs. Edmonton Oilers.

Washington Capitals star Evgeny Kuznetsov breaks out the bird dance, and the Columbus Blue Jackets imitated that after scoring in overtime.

Maryland-based Metro Maple Leafs, who wore anti-racism stickers after Divyne Apollon II heard taunts, will meet with Capitals players after a game.

High Bank Distillery in Columbus, Ohio, offered Blue Jackets leading scorer Artemi Panarin vodka for life if he re-signs with the team.

Oklahoma City Thunder player Nerlens Noel’s head hit the court hard after he tried to block a dunk from the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Andrew Wiggins.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals says appearing at stadiums is ‘confusing and frightening’ for live animal mascots.

Philadelphia Flyers center Claude Giroux lifts defender’s stick, lets puck roll through his own legs for tying goal against Tampa Bay Lightning.

Longtime Sabres broadcaster Rick Jeanneret left the broadcast early in the third period and was taken to a local hospital.