The Vancouver Canucks are starting to build a strong prospect pool. Whether through the draft, trade or free agency, there are quite a few prospects who could make an impact at the NHL level sooner rather than later. Here is a look at the top ten prospects in Vancouver's system heading into the 2025-26 season

*Note: To qualify for this list, players must be 23 or under and have played fewer than 25 combined NHL regular-season and postseason games. Players are ranked based on age, position, potential, and overall performance during the 2024-25 season.

Honourable Mention: Riley Patterson- Niagara IceDogs, OHL

C, 6'0", 192 lbs- 125th Overall in 2024

After two seasons with the Barrie Colts, Riley Patterson was traded to the Niagara IceDogs in search of a new start. The trade is already looking like it will benefit the 19-year-old, as he will get an opportunity to play more at center rather than on the wing. With Patterson projected also to get significant time on the power play, it is possible that he records his first point-per-game season in the OHL this year. 

10. Anthony Romani- Michigan State University, NCAA

C, 6'0", 185 lbs- 162nd Overall in 2024

Anthony Romani is headed to the NCAA next season to join Michigan State. With a stacked roster, it is unclear what the 20-year-old's ice time will look like, which means he could be a bottom-six player for the majority of the year. The hope is that playing against older competition will help Romani's development and make it an easier transition when he eventually moves to the AHL. 

9. Wilson Björck- Colorado College, NCAA

C, 6'0", 165 lbs- 143rd Overall in 2025

The first player from the 2025 NHL Entry Draft featured on this list is Wilson Björck. The 19-year-old was a standout at Canucks development camp and is on the radar for Sweden's 2026 World Juniors team. Björck's development this season will be something to keep an eye on, as he is leaving the J20 Nationell and joining the NCAA. 

8. Ty Mueller, Abbotsford Canucks, AHL

C, 5'11", 185 lbs- 105th Overall in 2023

Ty Mueller is one of Vancouver's more intriguing prospects for the 2025-26 season. The 22-year-old made his NHL debut in 2024-25 and was a key member of the Abbotsford Canucks Calder Cup championship last year. If Mueller has a strong start to the season, he could be one of the first players called up if injuries occur. 

Vancouver Canucks Top 10 Prospects: Pre-2025 NHL Entry Draft EditionThe Vancouver Canucks are starting to build a strong prospect pool. Whether through the draft, trade or free agency, there are quite a few prospects who could make an impact at the NHL level sooner rather than later. Here is a look at the top ten prospects in Vancouver's system heading into the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. 

7. Sawyer Mynio- Abbotsford Canucks, AHL

LD, 6'1", 173 lbs- 89th Overall in 2023

After a successful WHL career, Sawyer Mynio looks ready to make the jump to the AHL. Based on Abbotsford's 2025-26 roster, the 20-year-old may play most of the season lower down the lineup, but should get some time on the penalty kill. Mynio should also get some games in the pre-season, as it is clear the Canucks have big plans for him in the future.  

6. Alexei Medvedev- London Knights, OHL

G, 6'2", 178 lbs- 47th Overall in 2025

At the 2025 draft, Vancouver jumped at the opportunity to select goaltender Alexei Medvedev of the London Knights. The 17-year-old had a strong regular season, posting a 22-8-2 record with three shutouts as a backup. Now that Medvedev is the starter, the question is, can he lead London back to the Memorial Cup for the third straight year? 

5. Ty Young- Abbotsford Canucks, AHL

G, 6'3", 181 lbs- 144th Overall in 2022

After a strong rookie campaign, Ty Young enters the year as the projected backup for Abbotsford. The 20-year-old looked strong in limited action at the AHL level last season, and could get extended time as a starter if injuries occur in Vancouver. Ultimately, Young will be a player to watch at training camp and should get some game action in this year's pre-season. 

4. Kirill Kudryavtsev- Abbotsford Canucks, AHL

LD, 5'11", 200 lbs- 208th Overall in 2022

Kirill Kudryavtsev has developed into a draft-day steal for the Canucks. The 21-year-old made his NHL debut last season and was one of Abbotsford's most-used defensemen in the playoffs. While the Canucks do have some depth on the blue line, it would be shocking if Kudryavtsev does not receive a call-up sometime during the year. 

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3. Braeden Cootes- Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL

C, 5'11", 183 lbs- 15th Overall in 2025

With their first-round pick in the 2025 draft, Vancouver selected Seattle Thunderbirds captain Braden Cootes. The 18-year-old is a two-way center who is also one of the most completive players in the WHL. If Cootes can continue to develop as he did last year, it shouldn't be long before he finds himself a permanent spot in the Canucks middle-six.  

2. Jonathan Lekkerimäki- Vancouver Canucks, NHL

RW, 5'11", 172 lbs- 15th Overall in 2022

All eyes will be on Jonathan Lekkerimäki this year as he looks to secure a full-time spot in Vancouver. The 21-year-old did play 24 games in the NHL last season, but spent part of the year being called up and sent down to the AHL. Ultimately, training camp and the pre-season will be crucial for Lekkerimäki as he will be competing with a handful of other players for spots on the main roster. 

1. Tom Willander- Vancouver Canucks, NHL

RD, 6'1", 180 lbs- 11th Overall in 2023

After a successful career in the NCAA, Tom Willander is ready to make the jump to the NHL. While he may start the year in the AHL, the 20-year-old has the potential to be a top-four defenceman at the NHL level. Regardless of where he starts the season, it will not be surprising if Willander is a full-time NHLer heading into the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. 

Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have 37 days until opening night at Nationwide Arena. Today, we look at the history of jersey #37. 

Let's take a look.

Mattias Timander - 2001-02 - Timander was drafted in the 9th round of the 1992 NHL Draft by the Boston Bruins. 

Timander was taken by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2000 NHL Expansion Draft. After playing for the Jackets during their first two years of existence, he was traded to the New York Islanders in 2002. He finished his CBJ career by playing in 154 games and totaling 22 points. 

When the lock out of 2004-05 happened, Timander left for his home country of Sweden, where he played until he retired in May of 2013. 

Darrel Scoville - 2003-04 - Scoville was undrafted out of Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Scoville played in 10 games as a Blue Jacket during the 03-04 season and had 1 point. He spent the majority of his time playing for the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL. 

He left for Europe in 2005 and played the next five seasons in Poland. He then left and played a single season in Italy before retiring in 2011. 

Joe Motzko - 2006-07 - Motzko was undrafted out of Bemidji, Minnesota.

After playing four years at St. Cloud St. University, the Columbus Blue Jackets signed Motzko. He would go on to play a total of 11 games for Columbus and total one point. He spent the majority of his time playing for the Syracuse Crunch, where he had back-to-back 60-point-plus seasons. 

On January 26, 2007, He was traded by the Blue Jackets along with Mark Hartigan to the Anaheim Ducks for Curtis Glencross and Zenon Konopka. 

In 2009, he would leave for Europe and play six seasons before retiring in 2016. He played in Germany, Poland, and Italy. 

Darcy Campbell - 2007 - Campbell was undrafted out of Airdrie, Alberta.

Campbell was signed as a free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 19, 2007, and made his NHL debut on March 30th. That would be the only NHL game Campbell would play in. 

On January 22, 2008, Campbell was traded to the Colorado Avalanche for Mark Rycroft. He would never play in another NHL game after leaving Columbus. From there, he would play in the AHL, ECHL, CHL, Finland, Czechia, Germany, and Italy. 

He retired in 2014. 

Sean Collins - 2015 - Collins was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets 7th round of the 2008 NHL Draft. 

After Collins left Cornell University, he would spend the next three seasons playing for the AHL's Springfield Falcons. He got called up by Columbus a few times, totaling 19 games and three points. 

On July 1, 2015, Collins left the Blue Jackets as a free agent and signed a one-year contract with the Washington Capitals. 

In 2016, Collins left for Europe, where he's played ever since. He's played in the KHL, DEL, LIIGA, Switzerland, and the last three seasons in Austria. He is signed on to play his third season for Black Wings Linz in the ICEHL in Austria. 

Markus Hännikäinen - 2018-19 - Hännikäinen was undrafted out of Helsinki, Finland. 

Hännikäinen had signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 20, 2015. Over parts of four seasons, he played in 91 games for Columbus and had 15 points, which included 8 goals. He spent most of his time playing for the Lake Erie/Cleveland Monsters.

In February of 2020, Hännikäinen was traded by Blue Jackets to the Arizona Coyotes, ending his time with Columbus. 

Hännikäinen left for his native Finland when the COVID pandemic hit and never returned. He's played in the KHL(Finland), DEL, SHL, and is signed with HC Litvínov in Czechia for 2025-26. 

Cameron Butler - 2024 - Butler was undrafted out of Ottawa, Ontario. 

Butler signed an ATO with the Cleveland Monsters late in the season of 22-23. On March 16, 2023, he signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

He played in one career NHL game for the CBJ. In that game, he only played 54 seconds due to him arriving at the game just minutes before the start of the game after being called up from Cleveland due to a late Boone Jenner scratch. 

He spent most of his time playing for the Monsters. After playing 37 games in 2024-25, Butler was traded to the Minnesota Wild on June 26, 2025, for ex-Monster Brendan Guance. 

With 37 days until opening night at Nationwide Arena, the anticipation for the season is in full swing. Take a look at the schedule of events below.

Blue Jackets Participate in 2025 Prospects Challenge in Buffalo

The Blue Jackets will take part in the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo from Thursday, Sept. 11 to Sunday, Sept. 14. They’ll play three games and have one day off.

The schedule looks like this:

Thursday, Sept. 11 7 p.m. vs. New Jersey Devils

Friday, Sept. 12 `No Game Scheduled

Saturday, Sept. 13 7 p.m. at Buffalo Sabres

Sunday, Sept. 14 3:30 p.m. at Pittsburgh Penguins

This will be the second year Columbus has participated in the Prospects Challenge. Before that, they played in the NHL Prospect Tournament in Traverse City. As for the roster, it won’t be released until closer to the tournament.

Blue Jackets’ 2025-26 Training Camp and Pre-Season

Next up is training camp, which kicks off on Wednesday, Sept. 18. Camp will run until the pre-season begins and then transition directly into the full pre-season schedule. Here’s what the Blue Jackets have lined up so far.

After the first few days of camp, most rookies who received an invite will be cut and sent back to their junior teams. From there, the cuts will come more often as pre-season play gets underway.

The pre-season schedule is as follows:

Sunday, Sept. 21 vs. St. Louis Blues, 5 p.m. ET

Monday, Sept. 22 vs. Buffalo Sabres, 7 p.m. ET

Tuesday, Sept. 23 at Buffalo Sabres, 7 p.m. ET

Wednesday, Sept. 24 vs. Pittsburgh Penguins, 7 p.m. ET

Saturday, Sept. 27 at Pittsburgh Penguins, 7 p.m. ET

Tuesday, Sept. 30 vs. Washington Capitals, 7 p.m. ET

Saturday, Oct. 4 at Washington Capitals, 7 p.m. ET

* Games in bold are home games * 

Let us know what you think below.

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Nobody was shocked Friday afternoon when the Montreal Canadiens announced they had traded Carey Price’s contract and a fifth-round pick to the San Jose Sharks for right-shot defenseman Gannon Laroque. Price was expected to move after the final signing bonus of his eight-year, $10.5 M AAV contract was paid off on September 1.

Despite GM Kent Hughes saying the Habs didn’t need to trade the winningest goaltender in franchise history, it was only a matter of time before he pulled the trigger. The Canadiens had to get compliant before the start of the season, and while putting the netminder on LTIR would have done the trick, it wouldn’t have been excellent cap management.

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By getting rid of the legendary goaltender’s contract, Hughes gave himself some room under the cap, the Canadiens now have just over $4.5 M to spend. Of course, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they will, but they do have the option.

The Habs brass made no secret of the fact that they would have liked to find a second-line center on the trade market this offseason, and obviously, it didn’t happen. As we’ve heard so many times in the Marc Bergevin era, trading for a center is hard. Hughes has done it a few times already, acquiring Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook, but neither has panned out at a pivot yet.

The truth of the matter is, they will not get an impact second-line center with that kind of cap hit. In fact, former Hab Christian Dvorak had a $4.45 M cap hit, and he was never a second-line center for Montreal. Of course, if they find a trade partner who’s looking for wingers or defensemen, a trade could be done that would result in having more cap to dedicate to the center.

It’s impossible not to state at this point that Mason McTavish remains unsigned in Anaheim, and if the situation carries on for much longer, perhaps Ducks GM Pat Verbeek will be looking for a trade partner.

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The hockey world is mourning a hockey legend as former Montreal Canadiens goaltender Ken Dryden has passed away at age 78 following a battle with cancer.

The Canadiens revealed the news in a press release late Friday. Dryden’s entire hockey-playing NHL career spanned from 1971-1979, helping lead the franchise to six Stanley Cups. The goaltender also played a pivotal role for Canada in net against the USSR in the 1972 Summit Series.

"Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete, but he was also an exceptional man. Behind the mask, he was larger than life. We mourn today not only the loss of the cornerstone of one of hockey’s greatest dynasties but also a family man, a thoughtful citizen, and a gentleman who deeply impacted our lives and communities across generations. He was one of the true legends that helped shape this Club into what it is today”, Geoff Molson, Owner and President of the Montreal Canadiens said in a statement. “Ken embodied the best of everything the Montreal Canadiens are about, and his legacy within our society transcends our sport. On behalf of the Molson family and our entire organization, I would like to extend my most heartfelt condolences to his family, his friends, and all who had the privilege to cross his path and know him on a personal level.”

Dryden served as President of the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1997-2004 in what has been seen as their most successful period of hockey in recent times. During that period, he hired Pat Quinn to coach the club. He also spearheaded Toronto’s move to the Eastern Conference in 1999.

Beyond hockey, Dryden pursued a law degree from McGill University. He became a best-selling author, writing several books, including ‘The Game’. And served as a Member of Parliament from 2004-2011 in the federal government.

In the release, the Canadiens state that the Dryden family is requesting privacy at this time. At their suggestion, those wishing to honor Ken’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, or the Concussion Legacy Foundation.

We at The Hockey News Toronto extend our condolences to Ken’s family and friends at this time.

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On a day when the Montreal Canadiens’ fan base was reminded that nothing is eternal when GM Kent Hughes traded Carey Price (or his contract), the face of the franchise for much of the 21st century, the organization also had to announce the passing of another goaltender, the legendary Ken Dryden, after a battle with cancer.

As good and dominant as the Canadiens were in the 1970s, that dynasty wouldn’t have happened without Dryden. The 6-foot-4 netminder was a giant both literally and figuratively on the ice; his poise and unflappable demeanor drove opponents crazy. Always in control, Dryden used to wait out stoppage in play by leaning on his stick like a farmer enjoying a fresh breeze leaning on his pitchfork in a field. That's just how calm and relaxed he looked on the ice.

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A Boston Bruins draft pick at the 1964 draft, Dryden was traded to the Canadiens alongside Alex Campbell for Guy Allen and Paul Reid, two players who never made the NHL. While the Hamilton, Ontario native made the Habs wait before turning pro, opting to play three seasons with Cornell University (posting a 76-4-1 record with save percentages of .945, .938, and .936), he was very much worth the wait.

He took the league by storm when he joined the Sainte-Flanelle. After just six regular-season games, he was named the starter for the playoffs and backstopped the Canadiens to a surprise Stanley Cup in 1970-71, earning the Conn Smythe trophy in the process. The following year, he was awarded the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, the last Montreal player to claim the title before Lane Hutson’s win last season.

After two complete seasons and another Stanley Cup, Dryden is stuck in a contractual dispute and elects to leave hockey for the first time to work in a Toronto law firm. The hiatus will only last one year before he is signed to a contract worth $150,000 per year, and he rejoins the fold. He went on to play five more seasons, winning the Cup in his last four.

At just 31 years old, the goaltender shocks the hockey world by retiring. While some enjoy being at the top of their game and dominating a sport for years, Dryden was craving a new challenge and decided he had played enough. He retired with a 258-57-74 record, a 2.24 goals-against average, and a .922 SV. Although very short, his career was simply remarkable, getting 258 wins in just 397 games is already quite an achievement, but winning six Stanley Cups and a myriad of other Trophies in just seven complete seasons is extraordinary.

After hanging up his pads, he worked in various fields, commentating on hockey at the 1980, 1984, and 1988 Olympics. He was the color commentator when Team USA accomplished its “Miracle on Ice” in 1980. He also wrote numerous books, including The Game, which is widely recognized as the best hockey book ever written. Through his books, he also became an advocate for change in the game in light of the seriousness of head injuries; his book Game Change: The Life and Death of Steve Montador and the Future of Hockey is a masterpiece that must be read at least once.

In 1997, he was named president of the Toronto Maple Leafs, but the role was eventually abolished, and he departed his new functions to enter politics. A Liberal party MP, he was eventually named Minister of Social Development and stayed on until he was unseated at the 2011 federal elections.

A great athlete and an even greater mind, Dryden will remain in our memories as a man who loved to excel in all aspects of life and will forever be an inspiration to those who crave to make an impact in more than just one field. I was honoured to speak to him last season when the Canadiens paid tribute to their dominant '70s team, and I experienced firsthand just how imposing a presence he was. Thank you for inspiring us all to aim for greatness, Mr. Dryden. You will be sorely missed.

Former Canadiens Dryden On Head Injuries And The PreseasonThere was hockey royalty at the Bell Centre tonight as members of the Montreal Canadiens’ dynasty from the 1970s were in attendance for a pre-game ceremony and I had the opportunity to speak to Ken Dryden.

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Former Montreal Canadiens Hall of Fame goaltender Ken Dryden, who backstopped the club to six Stanley Cup wins and was regarded as one of the greatest players in NHL history at the position, has passed away at the age of 78 following a battle with cancer. 

Ken Dryden, the legendary Montreal Canadiens goaltender who backstopped the team’s 1970s dynasty to six Stanley Cups, has passed away at the age of 78 following a battle with cancer.

News release ↓https://t.co/yKQdmTE8Me

— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) September 6, 2025

The unfortunate news was confirmed early on Saturday morning with a team-released statement from Canadiens' Owner and President Geoff Molson.

"Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete, but he was also an exceptional man," Molson said. "Behind the mask he was larger than life. We mourn today not only the loss of the cornerstone of one of hockey’s greatest dynasties, but also a family man, a thoughtful citizen, and a gentleman who deeply impacted our lives and communities across generations." 

Born in Hamilton, Ontario in 1947, Dryden would initially be drafted into the NHL in 1964 by the Boston Bruins, Montreal's longtime rival. However, he was dealt to the Canadiens for Paul Reid and Guy Allen only days later.

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Dryden’s career with the Canadiens was nothing short of spectacular. He led Montreal to the Stanley Cup in 1971, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as postseason MVP in the process. Dryden then won the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie the following season, having not played enough games the year before to qualify.

By the time his career was finished, Dryden and the Canadiens won the Stanley Cup five more times as part of their 1970s dynasty. A five-time All-Star, Dryden would later be named No. 29 on the 2010 edition of The Hockey News Top 100 Players of All Time. 

A five-time winner of the Vezina Trophy as the NHL's best goaltender, Dryden was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983. His 338 career victories rank fourth overall in Canadiens team history, and his No. 29 jersey was retired by the club in January 2007. 

Dryden was also on hand for the famous "Miracle On Ice" victory by Team USA over the Soviet Union in the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics, serving as a color commentator alongside Al Michaels. 

Following an executive career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dryden then embarked on a career in politics, and was also named an Officer of the Order of Canada. 

Dryden is survived by his wife Lynda, his two children, and two grandchildren.

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Former Montreal Canadiens goaltender Ken Dryden has died after a battle with cancer, the team announced early Saturday.

The Hockey Hall of Famer, six-time Stanley Cup champion, best-selling author and former Canadian politician was 78. He passed away peacefully on Friday, the Canadiens said.

"Ken Dryden was an exceptional athlete, but he was also an exceptional man," Canadiens president-owner Geoff Molson said in a news release. "Behind the mask, he was larger than life. We mourn today not only the loss of the cornerstone of one of hockey’s greatest dynasties, but also a family man, a thoughtful citizen, and a gentleman who deeply impacted our lives and communities across generations. He was one of the true legends that helped shape this club into what it is today."

Dryden's family asked for privacy at this time and suggested that those wishing to honor his memory donate to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre or the Concussion Legacy Foundation.

Dryden was born on Aug. 8, 1947, in Hamilton, Ont. He grew up in the suburbs of Toronto.

"I never imagined I was going to play in the NHL," he told Ken Campbell in 2018. "Growing up in Toronto and playing for Humber Valley, the NHL was just a different world. It was one that I loved to follow and watch, imagine and fantasize about and pretend that I was an NHL goalie, and all the rest of it, but never with the idea that I would be one. I just kept playing because I wanted to play, and no coach ever said, 'Sorry, you're not good enough,' so it just kept going."

The Boston Bruins drafted him 14th overall in 1964. Shortly after he was drafted, the Bruins traded his rights to the Canadiens.

Dryden played NCAA hockey at Cornell University between 1966 and 1969, being named the ECAC player of the year in 1968-69 and being a three-time first all-star team netminder in the conference.

In 1970-71, Dryden spent most of the season in the AHL before getting called up to the Canadiens to finish the regular season with his first six NHL games. He went 6-0-0 with a 1.65 goals-against average and .957 save percentage.

As Montreal matched up with the Bruins in the first round of the playoffs, Canadiens coach Al MacNeil chose rookie Dryden to play in goal. Each team traded series leads before the Canadiens forced a Game 7. Dryden stopped 46 of 48 shots in the series-decider to help knock out the squad that drafted him.

Dryden, who was 23 at the time, then backstopped the Canadiens to a 4-2 semifinal series win over the Minnesota North Stars before facing the Chicago Black Hawks in the Stanley Cup final. That series also went seven games, but Dryden outmatched eventual Hockey Hall of Famer Tony Esposito with a .921 SP in the final round. Montreal won it all, and Dryden earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.

The following season, Dryden won the Calder Trophy after going 39-8-15 in 64 games with a 2.24 GAA, .930 SP and eight shutouts.

Before the 1972-73 season, Dryden was part of the historic Canadian team that faced the Soviet Union in the 1972 Summit Series. He split half of the eight-game series with Esposito, winning twice, including the deciding Game 8 in Moscow when Paul Henderson scored "The Goal" on Vladislav Tretiak at the other end of the ice.

"That series clearly and undeniably is the most important moment in hockey's history. Not Canadian hockey history, but in hockey's history," Dryden told NHL.com in September 2022.

Then in 1972-73, he won not only the Vezina Trophy for the first of five times but the Stanley Cup for the second time in three years. He even co-wrote a book called Face-Off at the Summit with Mark Mulvoy detailing his account of the Summit Series, which was published in 1973.

Standing 6-foot-4, Dryden stood tall on the ice, literally and figuratively. He was also known for his iconic pose, where he put his hands on top of his stick and leaned forward during a break in the action.

Dryden took a break from hockey in 1973-74, when the Canadiens refused to rework his contract. Dryden retired and finished his law degree at McGill University before signing a new contract with Montreal in 1974-75.

From 1975-76 to 1978-79, Dryden helped the Canadiens win the Cup four straight times before retiring at 31 in 1979. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983. The Canadiens retired his No. 20 in 2007.

"Ken embodied the best of everything the Montreal Canadiens are about, and his legacy within our society transcends our sport," Molson said. "On behalf of the Molson family and our entire organization, I would like to extend my most heartfelt condolences to his family, his friends, and all who had the privilege to cross his path and know him on a personal level."

Added NHL commissioner Gary Bettman: "From the moment Ken Dryden joined the Montreal Canadiens as a 23-year-old rookie in 1971, he made an immediate and lasting impact on the NHL, the Canadiens franchise and the goaltending position."

Bettman recalled Dryden's career accomplishments and love for his country while also highlighting his accomplishments at Cornell, saying his career ranks among the greatest runs in collegiate hockey.

"On behalf of the National Hockey League, we mourn the passing of a legendary Canadian and extend our sincere condolences to his wife Lynda, family and many friends and fans all over the hockey world."

After his playing career, Dryden wrote an account of the 1978-79 Canadiens in an enduring classic book, The Game, published in 1983. He not only painted a picture of his teammates, such as Guy Lafleur, Larry Robinson and Serge Savard, but he also reflected on playing the game on the ice, under the lights and more.

The author continued to write and co-write books, most recently publishing The Series: What I Remember, What It Felt Like, What It Feels Like Now to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Summit Series in 2022. Another one of his books, Game Change, highlighted the risks and dangers of head injuries by talking to former players and neurobiology experts before outlining a plan of action.

Dryden was appointed Ontario's first youth commissioner in 1984.

Dryden also worked as a hockey commentator at the 1980, 1984 and 1988 Winter Olympics, including the "Miracle on Ice" game between the United States and Soviet Union in 1980.

From 1997-98 to 2002-03, Dryden was president of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Then in 2004, he became a federal politician.

Dryden ran as a member of the Liberal Party of Canada in the Toronto riding of York Centre, getting elected on his first try. He served as the minister of social development under prime minister Paul Martin between 2004 and 2005. He won again in the 2006 and 2008 elections before losing his seat in 2011.

In 2012, Dryden was awarded the Order of Canada for contributing to the sport of hockey and to public life. He was also a teacher at the University of Toronto and McGill.

"Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Hon. Ken Dryden, a Canadian hockey legend and hall of famer, public servant and inspiration," Canada's current prime minister, Mark Carney, wrote in a statement to social media early Saturday.

"Ken Dryden was the reason I became a goalie, although I never mastered his ability to lean on his stick let alone keep the puck out of the net. His return to university at the height of his playing career taught the importance of balance in life. His post-hockey career demonstrated the value of public service. Few Canadians have given more, or stood taller, for our country. Ken Dryden was Big Canada. And he was Best Canada. Rest in peace."

There will be a lot of storylines to be on the lookout for this season for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

And one that has been talked about at length is the logjam they currently have at the forward position. As of now, according to PuckPedia, the Penguins currently have 13 forwards on their active roster, which don't include names like Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen - both of whom are expected to push for an NHL roster spot.

If they do make a push for a spot in training camp, that - unfortunately - makes one or two players listed on the current roster odd men out.

Potentially, one of those players is left wing Danton Heinen.

Heinen, 30, is in the midst of his second stint with the Penguins' organization. He originally signed a one-year deal in Pittsburgh as a free agent during the summer of 2021, and he was eventually non-qualified as a restricted free agent (RFA) in 2023 after signing another one-year deal the season prior. During his first stint with the Penguins, he recorded 26 goals and 55 points in 141 games.

He had a pretty decent season with the Boston Bruins in 2023-24, as he registered 17 goals and 36 points in 74 games and earned himself a two-year deal with the Vancouver Canucks in 2024. Vancouver then traded Heinen to Pittsburgh as part of the deal that returned them defenseman Marcus Pettersson, and the 6-foot-2, 195-pound forward finds himself in yet another contract year.

The issue is that there simply may not be enough room for him on the Penguins' roster this season.

After coming over from Vancouver last season, Heinen put up just three goals and 11 points in 28 games, and he saw his role take a bit of a hit once younger players like McGroarty and Koivunen came into the picture. The two youngsters also impressed in a short sample at the end of the season and seemed to prove that they are ready to make the jump to the NHL level this season.

That leaves a player like Heinen in a tough spot - especially when considering the other competition around him on the roster. 

Top-20 Penguins' Prospects 2025: Defenseman Should Be Full-Time In The NHL This SeasonHeading into the 2025-26 season, the Pittsburgh Penguins have shifted the focus to youth and development.

Assuming Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell stay put - at least, for now - the Penguins still have the likes of McGroarty, Koivunen, Tommy Novak, Anthony Mantha, Blake Lizotte, and two players just re-signed in Connor Dewar and Philip Tomasino. They also still employ the contracts of veterans Kevin Hayes and Noel Acciari for another year, and because of Hayes's ability to play center and Acciari's ability to eat hard minutes, it's unlikely that they'll be cut from the roster.

Of course, competition is good for both young guys and veterans alike, so it's very possible that Heinen could have a great training camp and force the Penguins' hand. It's also a possibility that at least one of McGroarty or Koivunen does not have a standout camp and starts the season in the AHL.

But given where the Penguins are at, it makes little sense to hold young players back if they show they are ready for the NHL in favor of veterans unlikely to be on the roster beyond this season, anyway. That doesn't mean Heinen would be the odd man out.

However, he will have an uphill climb in training camp, and it will be interesting to see how he responds to the pressure of making the roster over a few young prospects with high upside.

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Heading into the 2025-26 season, the Pittsburgh Penguins have shifted the focus to youth and development.

With more talent in the system than Pittsburgh has had in years - and 13 picks in the 2025 NHL Draft - top prospects lists are becoming more competitive and more difficult to discern. Since the prospect pool is deepening, The Hockey News - Pittsburgh Penguins takes a look at the top-20 prospects in the organization. 

At No. 6, we discuss a blueliner who made his way to the NHL in 2024-25, and - although he didn't stick around through the end of the season - he showed flashes of top-four potential. That would be Owen Pickering.

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#6: D Owen Pickering

The 2024-25 season was a big one for Pickering, who was selected 21st overall by the Penguins in 2022. The 6-foot-5, 200-pound blueliner was touted more so as a two-way defenseman heading into the draft, as he registered nine goals and 33 points in 62 games with the Swift Current Broncos in 2021-22.

Since then, Pickering's offensive game has yet to really take off in a big way. He did record 16 goals and 91 points in 120 more games with Swift Current before moving on full-time to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WBS) Penguins of the AHL last season - but that is where flashes of his shutdown ability really started to surface.

In 47 games with WBS last season - split between the beginning of the 2024-25 season and the end of it - he put up just two goals and 13 points total. But it was his game on the defensive side of the puck and in transition that impressed the Penguins and led to an unexpected mid-season callup ahead of a Nov. 16 game against the San Jose Sharks.

Pickering recorded an assist in his first NHL contest, and just five games later, he recorded his first NHL goal against the Florida Panthers. The spurts of production - and ability along the offensive blue line - was encouraging to see from Pickering, but what was even more encouraging was the fact that he jumped into minutes alongside Kris Letang on the top pairing less than a month later.

Big goal, even bigger smile.

Congratulations on your first NHL goal, Owen Pickering! pic.twitter.com/h5rqvxPX8k

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) December 4, 2024

And this, perhaps, was an assignment that Pickering wasn't quite ready for. It wasn't for lack of ability, but rather, for lack of experience. Much of the steadiness and suredness that was shown from him early on and in WBS earlier in the season started to fade a bit, and an injury just before the holiday break kept him out for two weeks. Pickering did stick around through most of January, but he saw his minutes dwindle and eventually ended up back in WBS.

But make no mistake: Pickering showed enough in his NHL sample size to prove he is ready for full-time NHL action next season, even if in more controlled, sheltered minutes. And that's exactly where he intends to be in 2025-26. 

"You never want to get sent back," Pickering said near the end of WBS's 2024-25 season. "You always want to be in the NHL. I feel like I proved to myself that I can play in the NHL. I want to be full-time next year, I want to be [in Pittsburgh] the whole year. That's the goal."

And Pickering certainly has the ability, even if - as GM and POHO Kyle Dubas said in his post-season press conference - he isn't quite ready for top-four minutes yet. He is figuring out how to use his frame to his advantage, as he is getting better and better at boxing guys out and pushing them to the perimeter of the ice. He's mobile for his size as well, and he already excels at navigating the offensive blue line and finding lanes. 

What Will Owen Pickering's Role Be In 2025-26?Next season will present a prime opportunity for several Pittsburgh Penguins’ prospects to crack the NHL roster.

But there is still room for improvement as well. Pickering could use some work on his breakouts, and he could also develop a more physical game. He's also still working on establishing his presence in front of his own net and not forcing plays and decisions. 

All in all, the Penguins see Pickering as a big part of their future on the blue line. Dubas wants to see the young defenseman push for a bigger role this season, and one doesn't have to look very hard to see the potential there. 

“We can't have him same as we had him go down, settling into a 12-13 minute a night role," Dubas said. "He needs to come in and push his way into 17, 18, 19, 20 minutes and earn that.”

It remains to be seen what Pickering does with the opportunity he has. There is a lot of uncertainty on the left side of the Penguins' blue line, and it seems as though a spot is there for the taking for Pickering if he has a good training camp. 

If he does crack the NHL roster, he may very well develop into a shutdown presence that the Penguins have needed for a long while. And there might still be some room for him to make his way onto the scoresheet consistently, too.

Top-20 Penguins' Prospects 2025: Forward Prospect Continues To Build Two-Way GameHeading into the 2025-26 season, the Pittsburgh Penguins have shifted the focus to youth and development.

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The list so far:

- No. 7: Tanner Howe
- No. 8: G Arturs Silovs
- No. 9: G Joel Blomqvist
- No. 10: F Tristan Broz
- No. 11: F Will Horcoff
- No. 12: F Mikhail Ilyin
- No. 13 F Filip Hallander
- No. 14: F Bill Zonnon
- No. 15: F Melvin Fernstrom
- No. 16: D Emil Pieniniemi
- No. 17: F Avery Hayes
- No. 18: F Cruz Lucius
- No. 19: D Finn Harding
- No. 20: D Peyton Kettles

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Former Detroit Red Wings forward Luke Glendening, who made a living in the Motor City with his effectiveness in the face-off circle as well as on the penalty kill, has landed what could prove to be one of his final opportunities to extend his NHL career. 

Glendening, who has played the last two seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning, has agreed to a professional tryout agreement (PTO) with the New Jersey Devils. 

#NJDevils have signed Kevin Rooney, Luke Glendening, Adam Scheel and Georgi Romanov to PTOs.

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) September 5, 2025

One of many NHL players who originally hail from the state of Michigan who have suited up for the Red Wings during their careers, Glendening played college hockey for the University of Michigan before signing a one-year contract with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Detroit's American Hockey League affiliate, in June 2012. 

Playing under Griffins head coach Jeff Blashill, whom he would later reunite with during their time with the Lightning, Glendening helped Grand Rapids to the 2013 Calder Cup championship, recording six goals and 10 assists in 24 postseason games.

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features. 

He would eventually get his feet wet at the NHL level by appearing in 56 games with the Red Wings in the 2013-14 NHL season, and soon became a regular in their lineup. During his first full NHL season in 2014-15, Glendening scored 12 goals in 82 games, which remains his highest goal scoring output. 

Notable Changes Reportedly Coming For Future Red Wings Seasons It's been over 30 years since the Detroit Red Wings, or any other NHL club for that matter, has played more than 82 regular season games.

Glendening spent several more seasons with the Red Wings and, alongside then-teammate Dylan Larkin, was part of the last Detroit roster to reach the postseason in 2016.

He departed Detroit and joined the Dallas Stars prior to the 2021-22 NHL season, signing a two-year, $3 million contract. He appeared in the postseason in both campaigns with Dallas, which included a run to the Western Conference Final in 2023. 

Following the conclusion of his deal with the Stars, Glendening opted to return to the Eastern Conference by signing a two-year, $1.6 million deal with the Lightning. While he scored 10 goals in 81 games in his first season in Tampa, his offense dipped to just four goals and three assists in 77 games last season. 

Glendening has skated in a total of 864 NHL games with the Red Wings, Stars, and Lightning, and has amassed 83 goals with 83 assists. He's also tallied six goals with four assists in 50 career postseason games. 

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Several players are looking for roster spots on the New Jersey Devils lineup this training camp. Three forwards in particular, Arseniy Gritsyuk, Lenni Hämeenaho, and Shane Lachance, are entering what could be their breakthrough season, each with an opportunity to solidify a place in the NHL.

While all three have a legitimate shot at cracking the lineup, training camp will be the true test of whether they’re ready for the jump.

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Arseniy Gritsyuk

Gritsyuk is making his NHL debut after leaving the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). The Russian forward is expected to bring a strong offensive presence, with the skillset to fit into the Devils’ middle six. However, questions remain about how quickly he can adapt to the North American game after spending most of his career overseas.

“Gritsyuk will be the one that we’re really excited to see when he comes over here,” Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald said after free agency. “How can he adapt? He’ll be here mid-August to get settled. They tell me he’s got the upside of Dadonov at the same age, and it would be nice for Dadonov to mentor him.”

Gritsyuk has also stated that if he doesn’t make the NHL roster, he would only spend a short stint in the AHL before considering a return to the KHL.

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Lenni Hämeenaho

Hämeenaho, drafted by the Devils in 2023, is another intriguing prospect heading into camp. The Finnish forward signed with New Jersey at the end of last season after playing professionally in Finland. At 6-foot-1 and just 20 years old, he has the size, skill, and potential to make a strong impression in his first training camp.

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Shane Lachance

The final player to watch is Lachance, who has spent the past two seasons at Boston University. Standing at 6-foot-5, he offers a different dimension that could strengthen the Devils’ bottom six. As captain of the Terriers, he showcased both leadership and production, helping guide his team to success in the NCAA.

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Each of these three forwards brings a different skillset, and all will be given the chance to compete for a spot.

“We’re excited. I think we’re a faster team. I think we’ve added skill,” Fitzgerald said. “The excitement of watching Gritsyuk, Hämeenaho, or even Lachance come into camp and make it hard on us to send them down — they’re all different, and they all have NHL upside.”

The Calgary Flames have reportedly signed forward Connor Zary to a three-year bridge contract with the club, worth $11.325 million, carrying an annual average value of $3.775 million. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. 

"Hearing Connor Zary and the Calgary Flames are closing in on a three-year extension at just under $3.8M," Friedman posted.

Zary, 23, is coming off a promising sophomore campaign in which he notched 13 goals and 27 points in 54 games before being sidelined with a lower-body injury late in the season. Over his 117 career NHL appearances, the skilled forward has recorded 27 goals and 61 points, showcasing consistent offensive upside and two-way reliability.

Originally selected 24th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, the Saskatoon, Saskatchewan native has quickly established himself as a key part of Calgary’s young core. His vision, hockey sense, and ability to contribute in all situations have made him a valuable piece of the Flames’ lineup.

The deal secures Zary through the 2027–28 NHL season. 

While Mike Sullivan is an already established NHL coach, he has a lot to prove as he begins this new opportunity with the New York Rangers. 

Through his ten years coaching the Pittsburgh Penguins, the team won two Stanley Cups, and Sullivan is credited with some of the praise, which is well-deserved.

However, Sullivan did have Sidney Crosby, who was in the prime of his career for a large part of Sullivan’s tenure in Pittsburgh. 

Now, Sullivan will be without Crosby, and that brings some pressure on him.

Crosby brought both tremendous results on the ice and an element of leadership that helped build a strong culture with the Penguins. 

It’s on Sullivan to establish a culture in New York for a Rangers organization that is in desperate need of an identity after a disastrous season. 

Sullivan is out to prove he can build a Stanley Cup foundation without the likes of Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. 

Igor Shesterkin Ranked As Third Best Goalie in NHL Network’s Top-10 Goalie List.Igor Shesterkin ranked no. 3 in the NHL Network’s Top-10 goalie list. 

When Sullivan arrived in Pittsburgh, the Penguins had already won a Stanley Cup just a few years before, much different compared to the Rangers, who haven’t won a Stanley Cup since 1994. 

This opening with the Blueshirts presents a challenge and opportunity for Sullivan to further establish himself as one of the greatest coaches of this generation.

A former New York Rangers forward has landed a professional tryout (PTO) with one of the club's biggest rivals. 

The New Jersey Devils have announced that they have signed former Ranger Kevin Rooney to a PTO. 

#NEWS: We’ve signed Kevin Rooney, Luke Glendening, Adam Scheel and Georgi Romanov to PTOs.

— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) September 5, 2025

Rooney is among the unrestricted free agents (UFAs) left at this juncture of the off-season, but he is now a step closer to changing that by landing this PTO with New Jersey. Now, he will be looking to impress at training camp to earn a contract for the season. 

Rooney previously played for the Devils from 2016-17 to 2019-20. However, his time in New Jersey ended when he signed a two-year, $1.5 million contract with the Rangers during the 2020 NHL off-season. 

Rooney posted 14 goals, 12 assists, 26 points, and 194 hits in 115 games over two seasons with the Rangers. His time with the Blueshirts ended during the 2022 NHL off-season when he signed a three-year deal with the Calgary Flames in free agency. 

In 70 games this past season for the Flames, Rooney recorded five goals and 10 points. 

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