The GIST: While the Stars and Mavericks continue the grind on their respective playing surfaces, the Cowboys’ rumor mill grinds on, fueled by lingering questions about quarterback (QB) Dak Prescott’s future with the squad.

The GIST: The Clippers are without their biggest stars, and the Sparks might lose some of their own. Not, not panicking.

This Week for the Blackhawks, Fighting Illini, Bulls

The GIST: No (real) football, no problem. There’s plenty of ranked women’s basketball (WBB) action and season opening volleyball play on tap to keep us busy while we wait another week for Amanda Gorman’s performance at the big game.

The GIST: The WNBA free agency signing period begins on Monday, and with so many big names on the block, a big shake-up is definitely in store for the upcoming season. Just what the doctor ordered.

The GIST: Was there football on last night? Oops, must’ve missed it. We were too locked in on our New York hockey teams.

The GIST: This wind chill may be making for some bitter temps, but there were no cold shoulders around Boston sports this weekend, as the Red Sox welcomed in some new faces and the Patriots re-hired a familiar one.

The GIST: Thanks to the UCLA gymnastics team, we’re ready to dance into Monday. Work it.

This week in sports.

The GIST: Spirit defender Emily Sonnet is brightening our day with her skilled moves. The Wizards and Capitals? Not so much.

The GIST: With a handful of upsets and thrilling near upsets over the weekend, women’s college basketball is out to prove that rankings are just a number.

The GIST: The Stars had to wait to hit the ice, but they didn’t seem hindered by the delay, earning two wins in their first two games. Meanwhile, the Mavs are patiently waiting for some of their stars to return to play.