Sports

The San Francisco 49ers are ready for the start of the Jimmy Garoppolo era after announcing Tuesday that the franchise's quarterback of the future will make his first start for the team this week.

Ward scored the tiebreaking goal on a long deflection off his skate with 7:10 to play, and San Jose rallied from a third-period deficit for a 2-1 victory over the Kings on Sunday night.

Durant returned to practice Friday and experienced no issues with his left knee, so he is set to play Saturday against New Orleans in his return from injury after more than a month on the sidelines .

After the Tigers spent the day expecting to face Oakland's Jharel Cotton, he was scratched a few minutes before Monday night's game with a strained groin. His replacement, Raul Alcantara, held Detroit scoreless for 3 2/3 innings to set up an 8-3 victory.

Timo Meier scored late in the second period, lifting the Sharks over Jason Pominville and the Buffalo Sabres 3-2.

The San Francisco 49ers started free agency Wednesday by getting some needed help for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, agreeing to a four-year contract with versatile running back Jerick McKinnon and a five-year deal with interior offensive lineman Weston Richburg just after the start of the new league year.