Struggling with today’s NYT Connections puzzle? You’re not alone! Today’s game (#961) has a fun theme centered around comedy and characters that’ll have you laughing as you solve.
Today’s Theme & Answer
The January 27, 2026 Connections puzzle focuses on humor and wordplay, with categories ranging from funny personalities to clever word associations. The main theme revolves around characters who make people laugh and playful word combinations.
Quick Hints by Difficulty
Yellow (Easiest): Think about someone who loves making people laugh Green: These players skate on ice professionally
Blue: Characters from a legendary forest tale Purple: Look for words that start with baseball equipment
Category Breakdown & Answers
Yellow – Quite the Character
Answer: CARD, CHARACTER, CUTUP, JOKER These words all describe someone who’s funny and entertaining – the class clown type!
Green – NHL Team Members
Answer: DEVIL, FLYER, PENGUIN, RANGER All hockey team mascots from the National Hockey League.
Blue – First Words of Robin Hood Character Names
Answer: FRIAR, MAID, ROBIN, SHERIFF
Think Friar Tuck, Maid Marian, Robin Hood, and Sheriff of Nottingham.
Purple – Starting with Baseball Gear
Answer: BALLROOM, BASEMENT, BATMOBILE, CAPSTONE Each word begins with baseball equipment (BALL, BASE, BAT, CAP).
Don’t give up! Tomorrow brings a fresh puzzle with new challenges. Happy connecting!