NHL's Early Season Shakeup: Player Moves, Retirements, and Contract Extensions Reshape the Landscape

The NHL has announced its three stars of the week ending February 9, 2025. Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brandon Hagel, Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Demko, and Florida Panthers winger Matthew Tkachuk have been recognized for their outstanding performances.In preparation for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, Team Canada captain Sidney Crosby has declared himself ready to play after recovering from an upper-body injury. Crosby was seen skating on a line with Mark Stone and Nathan MacKinnon during Canada's practice on Monday. Meanwhile, Finland forward Mikko Rantanen is joining his teammates in Montreal for the tournament, despite missing a recent game due to a lower-body injury.The Toronto Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews was centering a line with Tampa Bay Lightning winger Jake Guentzel and New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes during Team USA's practice on Monday.In other news, the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) is gearing up for the second half of its season. The PWHL Takeover Tour continues with a game between the Ottawa Charge and Toronto Sceptres at Rogers Place in Edmonton on February 16. The league's playoff race is heating up, with only the top four teams qualifying for the playoffs, which begin the week of May 5. Montreal currently leads the league with 31 points in 14 games, followed by Minnesota with 25 points through 15 games.The PWHL also recently concluded the Rivalry Series, with Canada emerging victorious over the United States. The league is planning to add two expansion franchises for the start of the 2025-26 season, with several markets being considered, including Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Denver, and Seattle.In NHL trade rumors, the Boston Bruins are reportedly getting calls about captain Brad Marchand, who is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. The Bruins are listening to offers but have not actively shopped Marchand. The Colorado Avalanche, Vegas Golden Knights, Edmonton Oilers, Dallas Stars, and Minnesota Wild are among the teams interested in acquiring Marchand.The Anaheim Ducks' John Gibson is another player being mentioned in trade rumors, with the Edmonton Oilers and Carolina Hurricanes reportedly being his preferred destinations. Gibson wants to be the starting goaltender for his new team, but it's unclear if partnering with Oilers netminder Stuart Skinner would work for him.The NHL's coaching carousel has been spinning rapidly, with several teams making changes to their coaching staff. The Toronto Maple Leafs are under pressure to make significant moves after another early playoff exit, with speculation surrounding the future of Mitch Marner and the team's goaltending situation.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

11 Helmi 3min

The NHL has seen several significant developments recently. The 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, a new international tournament, is set to take place from February 12 to 20, 2025, in two North American cities, one in Canada and one in the United States. This event will feature top NHL players from Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United States, replacing the traditional NHL All-Star Weekend for the 2024-25 season. Each team will consist of 23 NHL players selected by their respective national associations, with games following a Round Robin format and culminating in a single-game Final[2][5].In other news, trade talks are heating up around several players. Scott Laughton, a 30-year-old forward for the Philadelphia Flyers, is reportedly attracting interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg Jets, among other teams. The Flyers are seeking a first-round pick as part of their asking price for Laughton, who is signed through next season with an average annual value of $3 million and lacks no-trade protection[1].Vladimir Tarasenko, a 33-year-old forward for the Detroit Red Wings, has also surfaced in the rumor mill. Despite having a full no-trade clause for this season, Tarasenko has struggled to fit in with the Red Wings, managing just 22 points in 53 games. The team's recent improvement and push for a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference may influence their decision on whether to trade him[1].Additionally, there have been rumors surrounding Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand, who is eligible for unrestricted free agency on July 1. While it's speculated that Marchand could be in play, it's noted that the Bruins haven't reached that stage yet. The team's performance leading up to the March 7 trade deadline will likely play a significant role in their decision-making process[1].On the ice, several teams are making strides. The Montreal Canadiens have been on a strong run, picking up their ninth win in their last 11 games with a 3-2 overtime victory over the Washington Capitals. The Canadiens moved within one point of the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final Eastern Conference wild-card berth and two points of the Boston Bruins for the first wild-card spot[4].The Detroit Red Wings have also been performing well, securing their sixth straight victory with a 5-3 win over the Chicago Blackhawks. Patrick Kane collected three assists to lead the Wings, while Lucas Raymond, Alex DeBrincat, and Marco Kasper each had a goal and an assist[4].In other news, the IIHF has extended its competition ban against Russia and Belarus, and the NHLPA and PHPA have chosen to join the AFL-CIO. The Wild's Ryan Hartman has been suspended for 10 games for a hit on Ottawa's Tim Stützle, and the Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski will miss a game against the Sabres due to injury[3].Overall, the NHL is gearing up for an exciting stretch of games leading up to the trade deadline and the 4 Nations Face-Off, with several teams and players making headlines both on and off the ice.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

9 Helmi 3min

The NHL has seen several significant developments recently. The Winnipeg Jets have tied a franchise record with their eighth straight win, defeating the New York Islanders 4-3. Connor Hellebuyck made 32 saves, and Gabriel Vilardi scored two goals and picked up an assist. This victory keeps the Jets in sole possession of first place in the overall standings with 81 points.In other news, Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon has widened his lead in the points race, now four points ahead of Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl. MacKinnon had a goal and three assists in the Avalanche's 5-4 victory over the Oilers. Draisaitl, however, became the first player this season to reach 40 goals, scoring twice in the game.The Chicago Blackhawks ended a three-game losing skid with a 6-2 victory over the Nashville Predators. Ryan Donato scored twice and picked up two assists, while Connor Bedard, Seth Jones, and Frank Nazar each had a goal and an assist.On the injury front, Vegas Golden Knights center William Karlsson has been placed on long-term injury reserve due to a lower-body injury sustained on January 20. There is no timeline yet for his return.In trade news, there are rumors that Carolina Hurricanes winger Mikko Rantanen could hit the trade block again before the March 7 deadline if he and the Hurricanes haven't agreed to a new contract. Rantanen is slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 and carries an annual average value of $9.25 million on his current contract.The St. Louis Blues are also considering moving players, with Pavel Buchnevich, Jordan Kyrou, and Brayden Schenn drawing interest. However, their expensive contracts could be deal breakers unless the Blues retain some salary or take back a hefty salary.The New York Islanders have dismissed rumors that they are willing to entertain trade offers for defenseman Noah Dobson. Dobson is entering his playing prime, and his departure would create a major hole on the Isles' blueline.In other NHL news, the league has announced the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, an international tournament featuring NHL players from Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United States. The tournament will take place in February 2025 in two North American cities and will consist of seven games played over a nine-day period.Additionally, the Professional Women's Hockey League is planning to add two expansion franchises for the start of the 2025-26 season. The league will begin sending requests for proposals to several markets and accepting applications, with potential candidates including Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Denver, and Seattle.The NHL has also introduced rule changes for the 2024-25 season, including adjustments to coach's challenges, line changes after dislodged nets, face-off procedures, and unsportsmanlike conduct penalties. These changes were unanimously approved by the League's Board Governors, NHL Managers, and NHL/NHLPA Competition Committee.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

8 Helmi 3min

Recent NHL news includes significant updates on player injuries, trades, and upcoming international tournaments.Penguins captain Sidney Crosby is dealing with an injury, adding to the team's challenges. Meanwhile, the Canucks have re-signed defenseman Marcus Pettersson, securing his future with the team.In game recaps, the New York Rangers secured a 3-2 win over the Boston Bruins, thanks to a shorthanded third-period goal by Chris Kreider. This victory brings the Rangers within four points of the final Eastern Conference wild-card berth. Bruins winger David Pastrnak continues to perform well, scoring to collect 25 points over the past 12 games, but his team remains just outside the Eastern wild card with 60 points.The Edmonton Oilers edged the Chicago Blackhawks 4-3 in overtime, with Zach Hyman scoring the winning goal. The Oilers hold first place in the Pacific Division with 72 points. Ryan Donato and Teuvo Teravainen each had two points for the Blackhawks.Buffalo Sabres center Dylan Cozens missed practice due to a "lower-body aggravation," according to head coach Lindy Ruff. Cozens has been the subject of trade rumors, with several teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, Detroit Red Wings, and Toronto Maple Leafs, reportedly interested in acquiring him.The National Hockey League Players’ Association is appealing Ryan Hartman’s 10-game suspension. Hartman, a center for the Minnesota Wild, received the punishment for driving Ottawa Senators center Tim Stutzle’s head into the ice following a faceoff. The Wild also claimed forward Vinnie Hinostroza off waivers from the Nashville Predators.Looking ahead, the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, an international tournament featuring NHL players from the US, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, is set to take place from February 12-20, 2025. The tournament will be held in Montreal, Canada, and Boston, Massachusetts, with each team comprising 23 NHL players selected by their respective national associations.In other news, the IIHF has extended its competition ban against Russia and Belarus. The NHLPA and PHPA have joined the AFL-CIO, marking a significant development in labor relations within professional hockey.The NHL trade deadline is approaching on March 7, and several significant trades have already occurred. J.T. Miller has been traded from Vancouver back to the New York Rangers, while Mikael Granlund is on his way to Dallas. The trade market is expected to heat up in the coming weeks.Overall, the NHL landscape is filled with intrigue, from player injuries and trades to upcoming international competitions. As the season progresses, teams will continue to jockey for position in the standings, and the trade market will likely see more activity.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

6 Helmi 3min

The Ottawa Senators have extended their winning streak to five games after defeating the Nashville Predators 5-2. The Senators' victory was fueled by three unanswered third-period goals from Shane Pinto, David Perron, and Ridly Greig, securing a three-point lead over the Detroit Red Wings for third place in the Atlantic Division. Predators captain Roman Josi set a franchise record for games played with 957, while Senators center Tim Stutzle became the youngest player in franchise history to reach the 300-point milestone at 23 years and 19 days old.In other news, the NHL and NHLPA have announced the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, an international tournament featuring NHL players from Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United States. The tournament will take place in two North American cities from February 12 to 20, with each team playing three round-robin games followed by a one-game final. The event replaces the NHL All-Star Weekend for the 2024-25 season.Minnesota Wild center Ryan Hartman has been suspended for 10 games by the NHL Department of Player Safety for roughing Senators center Tim Stutzle. Hartman drove Stutzle's head into the ice following a faceoff draw, prompting the disciplinary action.Injury updates include New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal being sidelined indefinitely with a lower-body injury, and defenseman Scott Mayfield listed as day-to-day with a lower-body injury. The Islanders are already dealing with lengthy absences from Noah Dobson, Ryan Pulock, Semyon Varlamov, Mike Reilly, and Marcus Hogberg, which threatens their playoff hopes.Columbus Blue Jackets forward Kirill Marchenko is out indefinitely with a broken jaw, a significant blow to the team's offense. Marchenko is the Blue Jackets' leading goal scorer with 21 goals and second in points with 55.The NHL trade market is heating up, with several notable trades involving stars like Mikko Rantanen and J.T. Miller. The 4 Nations Face-Off break from February 10 to 21 will not include a roster freeze, allowing teams to make trades during this period. However, team executives expect any deals discussed during this time to be finalized after the tournament to avoid overshadowing the event.The Montreal Canadiens are facing a five-game losing skid, prompting calls for the team to become sellers in the trade market. Pending UFAs like Jake Evans, Joel Armia, Christian Dvorak, and David Savard could be shopped for the best possible returns.The Detroit Red Wings have overcome a 2-0 deficit to defeat the Los Angeles Kings 5-2, with Lucas Raymond scoring a goal and three assists. The Red Wings sit two points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning for the final Eastern Conference wild-card berth.Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty hopes to return from a fractured ankle in time for the 4 Nations Face-Off, potentially replacing Alex Pietrangelo on Team Canada. Pietrangelo withdrew from the tournament due to an injury.The NHL 4 Nations Face-Off rosters have been announced, with each team featuring 23 NHL players selected by their respective national associations. The tournament promises to deliver high-level international hockey, with fans eagerly anticipating the competition.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

4 Helmi 3min

Recent NHL trades have significantly impacted the league's landscape. The Dallas Stars bolstered their roster by acquiring center Mikael Granlund and defenseman Cody Ceci from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a first-round pick and a conditional third-rounder in the 2025 NHL Draft. This move aims to strengthen the Stars for a potential Stanley Cup run, with Granlund on pace to reach 60 points for the second straight year and Ceci providing depth on the right side of the Stars' blueline[1].The New York Rangers reacquired center J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks, with Miller scoring twice in his first game back with the Rangers. However, the team lost 6-3 to the Boston Bruins, who are six points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning for the final Eastern Conference wild-card berth. The Lightning, meanwhile, dropped a 3-2 decision to the New York Islanders, with Tony DeAngelo scoring in overtime and Adam Boqvist netting his first goal with the Isles since being claimed off waivers from the Florida Panthers[1].Vancouver Canucks GM Patrick Allvin explained that trading J.T. Miller was necessary due to a rift between Miller and Elias Pettersson, which had affected the team's culture. The Canucks are now focused on seeing how things go for Pettersson and hope he returns to his high-scoring form. The team is also eager to sign Marcus Pettersson and Drew O'Connor to contract extensions, both of whom were acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins and are eligible for unrestricted free-agent status on July 1[4].In other news, the St. Louis Blues are considering trading blueliners Justin Faulk and Ryan Sutter after terminating Brandon Saad's contract. The team does not plan to move defenseman Cam Fowler and checking-line center Radek Faksa, as their current value to the Blues is higher than any potential return in the trade market[4].The 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, an international tournament featuring NHL players from the US, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, is set to take place from February 12-20, 2025. The tournament will be played in Montreal, Canada, and Boston, Massachusetts, with each team comprising 23 NHL players selected by their respective National Associations. The format includes a round-robin stage followed by a one-game Final, with the two teams having the best tournament record advancing to the championship game[2].Additionally, the Professional Women's Hockey League plans to add two expansion franchises for the start of the 2025-26 season. The league will begin sending requests for proposals to several markets, including Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Denver, and Seattle, with the goal of finding the right market size, fan base, facilities, and economic opportunity[5].The NHL's midseason grades have been released, with teams receiving grades ranging from A to F based on their performance. The Washington Capitals retained the top spot, while other teams like the Carolina Hurricanes made significant moves, including acquiring high-scoring winger Mikko Rantanen[3]. The NHL trade deadline is set for March 7, with several players potentially on the move as teams look to bolster their rosters for the playoffs.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

2 Helmi 3min

Recent NHL trades have made headlines, with the Pittsburgh Penguins shipping defenseman Marcus Pettersson and winger Drew O’Connor to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for forward Danton Heinen, defenseman Vincent Desharnais, prospect forward Melvin Fernstrom, and a conditional 2025 first-round pick. This deal comes after the Canucks traded J.T. Miller, indicating significant roster changes for the team.In other news, the Vegas Golden Knights signed Brandon Saad to a one-year, $1.5 million contract. Saad, a 32-year-old winger, became a UFA after his deal with the St. Louis Blues was terminated. This move could boost the Golden Knights' offense and improve their chances in the upcoming playoffs.Game recaps from Friday include the Columbus Blue Jackets' 3-2 overtime victory over the Utah Hockey Club, thanks to Zach Werenski's game-winning goal. The Blue Jackets overcame a 2-0 deficit, securing their third straight win and holding the first Eastern Conference wild-card berth with 59 points. The Dallas Stars also picked up their fourth straight victory by downing the Vancouver Canucks 5-3, with Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson each scoring two goals and an assist.Injury updates include Utah sophomore center Logan Cooley being sidelined indefinitely with a lower-body injury, and Canucks captain Quinn Hughes being banged up during the game against the Stars. The Stars also placed defenseman Miro Heiskanen on injured reserve due to a knee injury.Looking ahead, the NHL and NHL Players’ Association announced projected payroll ranges for the next three seasons. The upper limit is expected to reach $95.5 million for 2025-26, $104 million for 2026-27, and $113.5 million for 2027-28, indicating a significant rise in the cap after several stagnant years following the COVID-19 pandemic.On the international front, the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off is set to take place from February 12-20, 2025, in Montreal, Canada, and Boston, Massachusetts. The tournament will feature NHL players from the US, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, with each team comprising 23 NHL players selected by their respective National Associations.In other professional hockey news, the Professional Women's Hockey League plans to add two expansion franchises for the start of the 2025-26 season. The league will begin sending requests for proposals to several markets, including potential candidates in Detroit, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Denver, and Seattle.Rumors surrounding the NHL trade deadline include speculation about the Canucks' future moves, particularly regarding Brock Boeser, who is slated to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Contract extension talks between Boeser and management have been reportedly lukewarm, leading to speculation that he could be traded at the March 7 deadline.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

1 Helmi 3min

The NHL season is heating up with several key storylines and recent developments. The New Jersey Devils secured a 5-0 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, with Jack and Luke Hughes each contributing a goal and an assist. This win places the Devils third in the Metropolitan Division with 64 points, while the Flyers sit three points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning for the final Eastern Conference wild-card berth.In other game recaps, the Vancouver Canucks defeated the Nashville Predators 3-1, with Quinn Hughes collecting two assists and Thatcher Demko stopping 31 shots. The Canucks now sit one point ahead of the Calgary Flames in the final Western Conference wild-card spot. Meanwhile, Sidney Crosby scored an overtime goal to lift the Pittsburgh Penguins to a 3-2 win over the Utah Hockey Club.Off the ice, the St. Louis Blues and winger Brandon Saad mutually agreed to terminate his contract, making him an unrestricted free agent. The Seattle Kraken placed goaltender Philipp Grubauer on waivers for the purpose of assigning him to their AHL affiliate, raising questions about his future with the team.Looking ahead, the NHL will pause its regular season for 12 days starting February 9 for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. This international event will feature teams from the United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, with games played in Montreal and Boston from February 12-20. The tournament will include NHL players under contract for the 2024-25 season and on an NHL roster as of December 2, 2024.In trade news, speculation around Vancouver Canucks center Elias Pettersson continues, with recent reports suggesting he was close to being traded to the Carolina Hurricanes before they acquired Mikko Rantanen. However, Pettersson's age and lack of no-trade protection this season could give him more lucrative trade value compared to teammate J.T. Miller.The 4 Nations Face-Off rosters have been announced, with each team comprising 23 NHL players selected by their respective national associations. The tournament will follow a round-robin format, with the two teams having the best tournament record advancing to a one-game final.Other notable news includes the Los Angeles Kings revealing their Quarter-Century Team, featuring players like Pekka Rinne, Roman Josi, and Filip Forsberg. The Florida Panthers have taken the top spot in the Atlantic Division with 63 points after a 3-0 win over the Los Angeles Kings, with Sergei Bobrovsky making 29 saves for the shutout.The NHL season is shaping up to be highly competitive, with several teams vying for playoff spots and key players making significant contributions. The upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off tournament will provide an exciting break from regular season action, showcasing the best of international hockey.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

30 Tammi 3min