Sharks' Eklund Undergoes Successful Wrist Surgery, Expected Back in Three Months
William Eklund, a key player for the San Jose Sharks, suffered a wrist injury while playing for Sweden. He underwent successful surgery and is expected to be sidelined for approximately three months. The injury will prevent him from participating in the World Championships, but he is projected to be fully recovered for the Sharks' training camp.


Anthony Stolarz Injured in Maple Leafs' Game 1 Win Against Panthers
Anthony Stolarz exited Game 1 against the Florida Panthers after a hit from Sam Bennett, with the Maple Leafs winning 5-4. Stolarz was later taken to the hospital for evaluation. Joseph Woll replaced him, securing the victory. The controversial hit sparked debate regarding its legality, with coach Berube calling it a clear penalty, while Bennett wasn't penalized.





New York Islanders Win NHL Draft Lottery, Secure First Overall Pick
The New York Islanders won the NHL draft lottery for the first time since 2009, moving up ten spots to secure the first overall pick. This outcome significantly impacts the Islanders' future and the upcoming draft, with potential top prospects including Matthew Schaefer, Michael Misa, and James Hagens. The event also marked the first live televised drawing in the lottery's history.





Celebrini, Hutson, Wolf Named Calder Trophy Finalists; Michkov Snubbed
The NHL announced Lane Hutson, Macklin Celebrini, and Dustin Wolf as Calder Trophy finalists, sparking debate over the omission of Matvei Michkov. Michkov led rookies in goals and even-strength points, while Hutson led in overall points and assists. Celebrini had a comparable point total to Michkov, and Wolf distinguished himself as a top young goalie. The winner, voted on by the Professional Hockey Writers Association, will be revealed later.





David Carle Extends Contract with Denver Pioneers, Dismissing NHL Interest
David Carle, the head coach of the University of Denver Pioneers hockey team, has signed a multi-year contract extension, foregoing potential opportunities in the NHL. The announcement solidifies Carle's commitment to the Pioneers, where he has achieved significant success, including two national championships and multiple Frozen Four appearances. He has also led the US National Junior Team to consecutive gold medals at the IIHF World Junior Championships.





Capitals Face Hurricanes in Round 2: Analytics, Strategy, and Player Perspectives
The Washington Capitals are set to battle the Carolina Hurricanes in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. This article analyzes the Capitals' first-round victory, examines their strategic approach to facing Carolina's aggressive forecheck, and assesses player readiness. It also considers analytics-based predictions for the series outcome.





Kings Part Ways with GM Rob Blake After Another Early Playoff Exit
After eight seasons, the Los Angeles Kings and General Manager Rob Blake have mutually agreed to part ways following the team's continued inability to advance past the first round of the NHL playoffs. The decision comes after a first-round exit at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers, marking their fourth consecutive early playoff defeat. The Kings will begin the search for a new GM immediately.





Calvin Pickard's Playoff Surge: Oilers' Goalie Faces Former Team, Golden Knights
This article discusses Calvin Pickard's unexpected rise as the Edmonton Oilers' starting goalie for the second round of the NHL playoffs against the Vegas Golden Knights. It highlights his journey back to the NHL after a period in the minors, his performance in the first-round series against the Los Angeles Kings, and the challenges the Oilers face against the Golden Knights.





Maple Leafs Edge Panthers in Thrilling Game 1, Stolarz Injured
The Toronto Maple Leafs won a tightly contested Game 1 against the Florida Panthers 5-4. The game was marked by a Leafs lead, a Panthers comeback attempt, and an injury to Leafs goalie Anthony Stolarz following a hit by Sam Bennett. Joseph Woll stepped up in relief to secure the win. Matthew Knies played a significant role, and the series is expected to be physical.





Marc-Andre Fleury to Join Team Canada, Reflects on NHL Career
Marc-Andre Fleury, following the Minnesota Wild's playoff exit, announced he will join Team Canada for the upcoming World Championship. He also reflected on his 21/22-season NHL career, highlighting his Stanley Cup wins, personal achievements, and the respect he gained from teammates. Fleury is also considering future roles with the Wild organization.





NHL Offseason: Burning Questions, Trade Speculation, and Realistic Expectations for 2025-26
This article synthesizes multiple reports to provide a comprehensive overview of the NHL offseason. It analyzes key questions facing eliminated teams, potential trade candidates, free agency strategies, and realistic expectations for the 2025-26 season. The focus is on team-specific challenges and opportunities for improvement.





Avalanche Face Offseason Questions After Early Playoff Exit, Rantanen Trade Scrutinized
Following their Game 7 loss to the Dallas Stars, the Colorado Avalanche are entering a critical offseason. Key questions revolve around potential coaching and front office changes, the re-signing of Brock Nelson, managing Gabriel Landeskog's return, and the future of Martin Necas. The team's limited trade assets and the need to re-evaluate their roster construction are also significant factors.





Predators Retain Coach Andrew Brunette Despite Disappointing 2024-25 Season
Despite a disappointing 2024-25 season where the Nashville Predators missed the playoffs after significant offseason acquisitions, General Manager Barry Trotz has confirmed Andrew Brunette will remain as head coach for the 2025-26 season. This decision reflects Trotz's belief in Brunette's coaching ability and a commitment to a long-term plan, even as the team addresses needed adjustments and improved player 'buy-in'.





NHL Replaces 2026 All-Star Weekend with International Event; Hochul Expresses Disappointment
The NHL has decided to replace the 2026 All-Star Weekend, originally planned for UBS Arena, with an international event. This decision, preceding the Milan-Cortina Olympics, has drawn criticism from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation and potential economic impact. The NHL aims to capitalize on the success of the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament and plans a significant hockey event in 2027 at UBS Arena.





Crosby, MacKinnon to Represent Canada at IIHF World Championship in Sweden/Denmark
Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon will represent Canada at the IIHF World Championship in Sweden and Denmark. Crosby's participation marks his first appearance since 2015, while MacKinnon returns for the first time since 2017. Their commitment enhances Canada's gold medal prospects and provides valuable preparation for the upcoming Olympics.





Connor Hellebuyck's Playoff Reprieve: Jets Goalie Bounces Back in Game 7
Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets' star goalie, redeemed himself in Game 7 against the St. Louis Blues after a series of poor playoff performances. Despite letting in two early goals, Hellebuyck rebounded in overtime, supported by a strong Jets defense. The win allows the Jets to advance and gives Hellebuyck a chance to rewrite his playoff narrative.


Ovechkin's Physical Play Ignites Capitals Entering Round 2 vs. Hurricanes
Alex Ovechkin's physical play and leadership are inspiring the Washington Capitals as they enter the second round of the playoffs against the Carolina Hurricanes. Ovechkin's renewed intensity and impactful hits are setting the tone for the team, complementing his scoring ability and defensive contributions. This marks the Capitals' first second-round appearance since their 2018 Stanley Cup win.


Canadiens' Management Temper Expectations After Playoff Berth, Focus on Internal Growth
Following their first playoff appearance since 2021, Montreal Canadiens' executives Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes emphasize the importance of internal growth and a balanced approach to team building. While acknowledging the progress made, they temper expectations for an explosive off-season, focusing on developing young players and adding strategic veteran experience to sustain long-term competitiveness.





NHL Teams Vie for Isaac Howard: Trade Winds Swirl Around Lightning Prospect
Isaac Howard, a promising prospect for the Tampa Bay Lightning and the 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner, may be available via trade. Contract disagreements are pushing him toward free agency. Several NHL teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins and Chicago Blackhawks, are interested. Potential trades involve significant assets, including top prospects and draft picks.





Woman Testifies in Hockey Canada Case: Details Alleged 2018 Sexual Assault
E.M., the complainant in the Hockey Canada sexual assault case, testified in graphic detail about the alleged 2018 assault by five former world junior hockey players. She described feeling scared, degraded, and as though she had no control over the events. Defence cross-examination focused on inconsistencies in her statements and her motivations for pursuing charges.




