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Gamethread: Flyers @ Penguins
Frank Nazar Has A Plan For Young Blackhawks Taking Over Leadership Roles
The Chicago Blackhawks traded away their captain and both of their alternate captains ahead of the trade deadline. Nick Foligno, Jason Dickinson, and Connor Murphy were all important players on the ice, but they played big roles in the young lockeroom as well.
In the first game following their departure, Connor Bedard and Tyler Bertuzzi wore an "A" on the ice. It is unusual to only have two letters, but that was their strategy for the one match against the Vancouver Canucks.
Will they add a third by the time they play the Dallas Stars on Sunday evening? They very well may, but they may also stick with just Bedard and Bertuzzi for now.
You don't need a letter sewn into your sweater to be a leader in the NHL, as many have learned over the years. As the team gets younger, some of these guys will take over as the new leaders on the team.
That includes Frank Nazar. Sometimes, your role in hockey terms puts natural leadership expectations on you. Nazar is one of those players, and he knows it. He has a plan on how to begin this new chapter of his NHL career, and it's to emulate Nick Foligno.
“Obviously, the locker room will be quieter without Fliggy. He’s a loud, vocal guy. I'm trying to think of things that he says in the same way.”
Nick Folingo's impact on the young core is felt and will be felt for the next decade. He taught them how to lead, play the game the right way, and be pros. Nazar's words reflect some of the off-ice things that he will take away from being his teammate.
Nazar's play against the Canucks reflected a leadership mentality as well. He used his speed in all areas of the ice to make plays, defend, and give his team a chance to win.
The Hawks did not end up winning the game, but Nazar played a role in the game being close. He started it off by creating a dump-in that led to Ryan Donato's beautiful goal. Sometimes, doing the right thing with the puck can go a long way.
Later in the game, Nazar tied it by deflecting an Alex Vlasic shot into the net. It was a wonderful skill play that was a result of his going to a good area to create a deflection.
Nazar commented after the game that it always feels good to score. He has shown more playmaking ability than goal scoring in his NHL career so far, but the tools are there for him to be a scorer as well. That is especially true if he starts making nice deflections like that.
"We're here to play for Chicago," Nazar said of their first game without some of the players traded away. He knows the business side of it and is ready to move on with a focus on playing well for the Blackhawks.
Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay up to date on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.
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Game No. 62 Preview: Flyers vs. Penguins
The final meeting of the season between the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins arrives under unusual circumstances for both teams.
Pittsburgh will take the ice without two of their superstars—Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin—while Philadelphia arrives with a slightly altered lineup following the trade that sent Bobby Brink to Minnesota and a call-up from Lehigh Valley that will see Alex Bump make his NHL debut.
1. Pittsburgh Without Crosby and Malkin Changes the Dynamic
For nearly two decades, the identity of the Penguins has revolved around two names: Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.
Therefore, their absence dramatically alters the tactical landscape of this matchup.
Crosby, who is out of the lineup due to a lower-body injury sustained at the Olympics, has an undeniable influence that extends far beyond scoring totals. His puck protection, faceoff dominance, and ability to dictate pace through controlled offensive-zone possession have long forced opposing teams to adjust defensive matchups.
Malkin, who was suspended for five games after slashing Buffalo's Rasmus Dahlin, meanwhile, has historically provided the Penguins with a second offensive engine—capable of generating offense through power and creativity in transition.
BREAKING: Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin suspended 5 games for slashing Rasmus Dahlin. #LetsGoPenspic.twitter.com/Ph9VB664FU
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) March 7, 2026
Without them, Pittsburgh’s attack becomes more distributed but less predictable. The Penguins may lean more heavily on speed through the neutral zone and a committee-style offensive approach rather than the familiar star-driven structure.
For Philadelphia, the challenge is psychological as much as tactical. Rivalry games can produce complacency when star players are absent. The Flyers must resist that temptation. Even without Crosby and Malkin, Pittsburgh remains a team capable of exploiting defensive lapses.
2. The Flyers’ Offensive Structure Must Adjust Without Bobby Brink
The trade sending Bobby Brink to the Minnesota Wild created both opportunity and disruption within Philadelphia’s forward group.
Brink had become an effective playmaking presence, particularly when deployed alongside Noah Cates and Tyson Foerster. His ability to maintain possession along the boards and distribute the puck under pressure allowed that line to sustain offensive-zone time.
Replacing that skill set is not as simple as just inserting another winger into the lineup.
Without Brink, the Flyers may rely more heavily on collective puck support rather than individual playmaking. Transition entries may need to be simpler, with an emphasis on speed and direct attacks rather than prolonged possession cycles.
3. Alex Bump’s NHL Debut Brings Opportunity
Tonight’s game will also mark the NHL debut of Alex Bump, a winger who has steadily climbed the Flyers’ prospect rankings.
Danny Briere said yesterday that Bump was next in line for an NHL look. Looks like that didn’t take long at all. https://t.co/NZksHcj9XQ
— Siobhan Nolan (@SGNolan) March 7, 2026
Debuts rarely unfold predictably. Some players attempt to do too much, eager to justify the opportunity. Others play cautiously, prioritizing safe decisions over creative instincts.
The ideal outcome lies somewhere in between.
Bump’s offensive instincts and ability to find open ice made him an intriguing addition to the lineup, but his immediate role will likely be straightforward: forecheck aggressively, move the puck quickly, and avoid unnecessary risks.
If Bump channels that energy into disciplined play, he could provide the Flyers with a spark—particularly against a Penguins defense adjusting to new offensive patterns without its traditional stars.
4. Rivalry Games Demand Emotional Control
The Battle of Pennsylvania has historically produced moments of volatility. For the Flyers, emotional discipline will be crucial.
Rivalry intensity can either elevate a team’s focus or derail its structure. Philadelphia’s recent success has been built on controlled aggression: physical play within a system that prioritizes defensive positioning and puck management.
Maintaining that balance in Pittsburgh’s hostile environment will be essential. The Penguins, especially without Crosby and Malkin, may rely on physical engagement and pace to disrupt Philadelphia’s rhythm.
The Flyers must respond with composure rather than escalation.
Projected Lines
Philadelphia Flyers
Forwards:
Trevor Zegras - Christian Dvorak - Owen Tippett
Denver Barkey - Noah Cates - Matvei Michkov
Alex Bump - Sean Couturier - Nikita Grebenkin
Carl Grundstrom - Luke Glendening - Garnet Hathaway
Defense:
Travis Sanheim - Rasmus Ristolainen
Cam York - Jamie Drysdale
Emil Andrae - Noah Juulsen
Goalies:
Dan Vladar
Sam Ersson
Pittsburgh Penguins
Forwards:
Avery Hayes - Rickard Rakell - Bryan Rust
Egor Chinakhov - Tommy Novak - Ville Koivunen
Anthony Mantha - Ben Kindel - Justin Brazeau
Connor Dewar - Blake Lizotte - Noel Acciari
Defense:
Parker Wotherspoon - Erik Karlsson
Samuel Girard - Kris Letang
Ryan Shea - Connor Clifton
Goalies:
Stuart Skinner
Arturs Silovs
Brennan Othmann Gets Much-Needed Fresh Start With Flames
Brennan Othmann could still transform into an impactful NHL player, but it just won’t be with the New York Rangers.
On Friday, the Rangers traded Othmann to the Calgary Flames, finally giving the fresh start he so desperately needed.
Chris Drury once thought highly of Othmann, given that he was his first draft pick as president and general manager of the Rangers.
Despite the high expectations placed on Othmann upon being drafted, his game never quite translated to the NHL level, and his play was inconsistent in the American Hockey League as well.
The 23-year-old forward has spent the past two seasons getting sent up and down from the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL to the NHL, struggling to carve out a permanent role with the Rangers.
Over the past two seasons, Othmann has played a total of 39 NHL games, recording one goal, two assists, and three points.
"He's a terrific kid and worked extremely hard to try and make it work here,” Drury said of Othmann. “For a number of reasons, it just didn't. To no one's fault. I think he'd been looking for a new opportunity, and really wanted to give him that chance.
“Just like any other deal, not going to give him away. Think he's a good young player and we were able to get the prospect we did with Calgary and made the deal. Certainly, no hard feeling on our end and wish him luck."
When he was in the Rangers’ lineup, Othmann played a limited bottom-six role, and he was oftentimes called up for short stints before quickly being sent back down to the AHL.
Chris Drury Gives Reasoning For Holding On To Vincent Trocheck Past Trade DeadlineWhen New York <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers/">Rangers</a> president and general manager Chris Drury issued a letter on Jan. 16 outlining the team’s plan to “retool” the roster, the expectation was that the Blueshirts would be busy ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline.
Othmann hinted at his confidence struggles at certain points, but for the most part, he spoke with a positive tone, conveying a sense that he can turn things around.
“We wish Otter well,” Sullivan said. “He’s trying to find his way, and obviously has high aspirations for himself. He has the ability to be an NHL player. We tried to work with him in certain aspects of his game in trying to define what the expectations were to try and carve a path for him or provide a path for him to be a New York Ranger, and for whatever reason, we couldn’t seem to make it work.
“We wish him the very best, he’s a great kid, he’s a good player, and we wish him very well in his stop in Calgary.”
Othmann’s departure marks yet another Rangers’ prospect who has failed to carry over their game to the NHL and was traded because of it.
Time will only tell if Othmann can reignite his career in Calgary.
NHL Hockey News, Scores, Standings, Rumors, Fantasy Games 2026-03-08 00:56:54
Islanders Gameday: In San Jose with Schenn, #10
The 2025-26 New York Islanders begin the rest of their season with a roster that has three veterans they did not have a couple of months ago. Two of them were once semi-stars but are now in their decline — while carrying cap hits that reflect the former phase than the latter — but Mathieu Darche is betting they will add enough to carry this year’s team forward into securing their playoff position and possibly making a little noise. The impact on following seasons is for another day.
The newest, Brayden Schenn, joins the team for their game in San Jose tonight, where his former Blues teammates beat the Sharks, 3-2 in overtime, despite lobbing only 14 shots on goal.
Newly extended backup Alex Nedeljkovic was in goal for that one, so the Islanders will presumably face Yaroslav Askarov tonight.
Based on the first draft of lines, the Islanders see Schenn as a center, a second-line center, pushing Calum Ritchie to the wing. That might be a subtle improvement as Ritchie adjusts in his rookie season at age 20, but it’s also asking too much a lot of Schenn, who was frequently moved to wing with the Blues over the past few seasons. With the matchups, and J-G Pageau taking on some assignments, maybe it’s more like they have two third lines.
First Islanders Goal picks go here.
Islanders News
“You should see the texts we got from former players, players that have been with him,” says Mathieu Darche in the media availability scrum below. This does not surprise me at all; I’m a fan of Schenn’s game at its peak and his approach even today. The challenge and fear is that was yesteryear. Former players are former players for a reason. Schenn probably gets, and delivers, a boost down the stretch here in this new environment, and freed from the burden of captaining a team that was in full identity crisis.
The impact on following seasons is, again, for another day.
At the beginning of this hotel interview about leaving the Blues, Schenn talks a little bit about excitement for the team and opportunity he’s joining — and later, about he and his brother Luke fielding “probably 45 calls” since 11 p.m. the night before discussing possible trade destinations and logistics with family:
Here’s how they may line up tonight:
And Schenn on the power play, too. He’s a smart player who still has hands, so…well, surely he can’t make the PP any worse?
I’m actually curious to see if the Isles ever use Schenn in 3-on-3 overtime. You wouldn’t think it from his speed at this age, but he can be effective and finish coming down the wing in that role.
- Our reactions (and comment fights) to the trade and the extension of J-G Pageau. [LHH]
- Another bit of trivia and orientation: Schenn will wear the #10 he’s worn at every NHL stop — save for his first callup in Philly — while Simon Holmstrom will take #92, while Lou Lamoriello rolls over in his retirement chair.
- Previewing tonight: The Islanders look to come out of their California slump. [Isles]
- A little more on those morning lines, with Anthony Duclair coming into the lineup in place of Kyle MacLean. [Isles]
It’s a laaaaate start tonight, 10 p.m. EST — and EDT starts tomorrow, you’ll lose an hour! — but I know we’ll all be curious to see how they look and do.
Elsewhere
- Evgeni Malkin suspended five games for trying to chop a guy’s head off. Maybe he’ll learn by the time he retires? [NHL]
- New Duck John Carlson carries mixed emotions after 17 seasons in D.C. [NHL]
- What the hell is the Leafs’ plan now? (You hate to see it…) [Sportsnet]
- Winners and losers: “There’s nary a bad vibe to be found in Buffalo these days, but it still had to be disappointing to think an Olympic-calibre defenceman in Parayko was coming your way, only to find out you were going to be Luke Schenn’s 10th NHL team.“ [Sportsnet]
Penguins Sign Goaltender To Entry-Level Contract
The Pittsburgh Penguins are pretty well-known at this point for the goaltending depth they possess in their system. Netminders like Sergei Murashov, Joel Blomqvist, and 2025 draftee Gabriel D'Aigle have received a fair amount of attention.
But there is another name that has flown under the radar for the past several seasons, and he was rewarded by the organization on Friday.
The Penguins announced that they signed Taylor Gauthier to a one-year entry-level contract for $775,000 at the NHL level. The deal runs through the end of the 2025-26 season, giving the Penguins one more potential option at goaltender on the NHL roster for the remainder of the 2025-26 season as well as the playoffs.
Gauthier, 25, is having another outstanding campaign with the Wheeling Nailers - Pittsburgh's ECHL affiliate - boasting a 12-6-5 record to go along with a 2.11 goals-against average and a .923 save percentage. This is his third-consecutive season having a save percentage of at least .923 at the ECHL level.
He had one appearance at the AHL level last season, which was a 32-save shutout on Apr. 19, 2025. He has made five total appearances in the AHL dating back to 2023-24.
Evgeni Malkin Suspended Five Games By NHL's Department Of Player SafetyEvgeni Malkin has been suspended for five games for slashing Rasmus Dahlin. The signing of Gauthier through the end of the 2025-26 season gives the Penguins some much-needed insurance at the goaltending position for a potential playoff run, as any goaltender used down the stretch and into the NHL playoffs must be signed to an NHL contract. Most teams carry three goaltenders in the NHL playoffs.
This will also be key because the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WBS) Penguins are likely to clinch an AHL playoff spot, and they will need two goaltenders for their playoff run as well. Murashov and Blomqvist have been the AHL tandem for most of the season.
Penguins Acquire Big Forward From Red WingsThe Pittsburgh Penguins made a trade with the Detroit Red Wings on Friday.Bookmark THN - Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab to follow the latest Penguins news, roster moves, player features, and more!
Troy Murray, former Blackhawks star and broadcaster, dead at 63
The Blackhawks are mourning one of their former players on Saturday.
Troy Murray died at 63, the team announced, after a long battle with cancer that he publicly revealed in 2021.
Chicago drafted Murray in the third round (57th overall) in the 1980 draft, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
“Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk, so far beyond his incredible playing career with a presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years,” Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said in a statement. “He was admired by his teammates and our players, and was so proud to connect generations of Blackhawks through his work with the Blackhawks Alumni Association. He jumped at every call to support our local community with our Foundation. He never missed a chance to say ‘hello’ in our press box and always knew the perfect time for a joke just when someone around the office needed it most. And he absolutely loved bringing Blackhawks hockey to you, our fans, night after night with a dedication to his craft that never wavered to the very end.
“During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him. While our front office simply won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Muzz.”
The Calgary, Alberta native starred as a two-way center at the University of North Dakota, earning WCHA Rookie of the Year award before helping the team win the national title in his sophomore season.
With the Blackhawks, Murray became the first player in team history to win the Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league’s top defensive forward during the 1985-86 season.
He logged 488 points, totaling 197 goals and 291 assists, across 688 regular season games in 12 seasons with Chicago.
Murray spent 15 seasons in the NHL and also served as the Jets’ captain for two years.
He played two seasons with the Senators and a single season each with the Penguins and Avalanche, winning a Stanley Cup with Colorado in 1996.
After retiring, Murray remained a big part of the Blackhawks organization, transitioning into broadcasting. He served as the team’s radio color analyst for over two decades.
Troy Murray, longtime Blackhawks player and radio analyst, dies at 63
Longtime Chicago Blackhawks player and analyst Troy Murray died Saturday, March 7, from cancer at the age of 63, the team announced.
"Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk, so far beyond his incredible playing career with a presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years," Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said in a statement. "He was admired by his teammates and our players, and was so proud to connect generations of Blackhawks through his work with the Blackhawks Alumni Association. He jumped at every call to support our local community with our Foundation."
Murray was selected by Chicago in the third round of the 1980 NHL draft and joined the team in the 1982 playoffs after two seasons at the University of North Dakota.
Nicknamed "Muzz," he would play for the Blackhawks until 1990-91, then return for parts of the 1992-93 and 1993-94 seasons, recording 197 goals and 291 assists in 688 regular-season games, including a career-best 99 points in 1985-86. He also won the Selke Trophy as top defensive forward that season.
He was also captain of the old Winnipeg Jets and played for the Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Colorado Avalanche. He won a Stanley Cup in 1995-96 with Colorado in his final NHL season. He had 230 goals and 354 assists in 914 NHL games.
After retiring from hockey, he went into broadcasting and served as the Blackhawks radio analyst for more than two decades, calling the Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
"He never missed a chance to say ‘hello’ in our press box and always knew the perfect time for a joke just when someone around the office needed it most," Wirtz said. "And he absolutely loved bringing Blackhawks hockey to you, our fans, night after night with a dedication to his craft that never wavered to the very end."
Murray announced in August 2021 that he had been diagnosed with cancer. He would return to the booth and continue working with the community.
"During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him," Wirtz said. "While our front office simply won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Muzz.”
Reaction to Troy Murray's death
Heaven just acquired one of the very, very best, and much too young. You fought like a lion. You lived life to its fullest. May you rest in peace Muzz. You will be remembered forever. Love ya.
— Darren R Pang (@Panger40) March 7, 2026
💔🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/bWURkFvyoY
We’ll miss you, “Muzz” ❤️
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 7, 2026
From all of us here at the Blackhawks, we extend our deepest condolences to Troy’s family and friends, our alumni and the many fans who loved him dearly
📰 https://t.co/uSli2fiTDwpic.twitter.com/bEqGYq34ts
Heartbreaking to hear the news today on the passing of @muzz19. Always had so much respect for Troy as a former @NHLBlackhawks and even better person. RIP my friend.
— Patrick Kane (@88PKane) March 7, 2026
The Avalanche mourns the passing of 1996 Stanley Cup champion Troy Murray. Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends, teammates and fans. pic.twitter.com/YKUaUDo9Ih
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 7, 2026
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Troy Murray, longtime Blackhawks player and analyst, dies at 63
Perry Speaks About His Time With Kings, Waiving His No-Trade Clause For Lightning
TORONTO - The Los Angeles Kings made a couple of trades on Friday's NHL trade deadline. One of those moves included Kings GM Ken Holland trading right winger Corey Perry to the Tampa Bay Lightning for a 2028 second-round pick.
On Saturday, after the morning skate in preparation for Tampa's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Perry explained what his short time in Los Angeles was like.
"I truly enjoyed it," the 40-year-old veteran said. "I can't say enough about the organization, how they treat the players.
"It probably didn't go as expected off the hop, but my time there was tremendous. My family is still living out there," he said.
Perry played 50 games for the Kings this season, after signing a one-year, $2-million contract in the off-season. In his short time with L.A., he scored 11 goals and 17 assists for 28 points.
Now, he's back with some familiar faces on the Lightning roster. Perry spent two seasons with the Bolts in 2021-22 and 2022-23, visiting the Stanley Cup final once.
Why Los Angeles Kings GM Ken Holland Had An Underrated NHL Trade DeadlineWhile it wasn't a loud deadline, GM Ken Holland and the Los Angeles Kings made some sensible moves that make the team better for the playoff push and the future.With his move to Tampa Bay, he was required to waive his full no-trade clause.
"It was a lot of back and forth, a lot of discussion with family, and eventually we made the decision (to move)," he said.
The former Hart Trophy and Rocket Richard Trophy winner shared that his plane landed around 4 a.m. EST.
Perry said that he wasn't thinking about waiving his clause for very long. It wasn't a decision that was made well in advance, but rather a decision he made minutes after finding out about the Lightning's trade offer.
He's advanced to the Stanley Cup final for the last two seasons, and in five of the last six years. Becoming a member of the Lightning, who sit atop the Atlantic Division, allows him to chase that streak in hopes of a different outcome.
Nonetheless, Perry is happy and excited to be joining a group of old friends and mentioned, "It's kind of like I never left, I guess."
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
With Deep Sadness And A Heavy Heart, The Blackhawks Mourn Passing Of Legendary Troy Murray
The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Saturday that legendary broadcaster and alumnus Troy Murray has passed away at the age of 63 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
The Hawks selected Murray with their third-round pick (57th overall) in the 1980 NHL Draft. He went on to become one of the best two-way centers in the league, including a Selke Trophy in the 1985-86 season.
Over the course of his NHL career, Murray scored 230 goals and had 354 assists in 915 games played. As a defensive specialist, his offensive production was not too shabby, hence the 1986 Selke Trophy as the best defensive forward. He received votes for the award in 7 other seasons besides his winning one.
After leaving Chicago as a player, Murray spent time with the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Colorado Avalanche. With Winnipeg, he served as team captain, and he won the Stanley Cup with Colorado in 1996, which turned out to be his final season as a player.
Troy Murray then returned to Chicago to be their color commentator on the radio, where he became a local legend. For being a Calgary native, he was a favorite in Chicago for a variety of reasons that go beyond his playing career. His deep knowledge of the game and incredible insight made him one of the best broadcasters in the world for over two decades.
Murray was also very active as an NHL alumnus, as the President of the Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association. For a long time, he played a key role in the comfort of former players once their careers ended.
After Murray announced his cancer diagnosis in 2021, he continued to fight hard. He worked in the broadcast booth for as long as his body allowed him, and he remained one of the greats until his time was done. He leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. He is proof that a person can truly be from two places at once.
The Blackhawks community lost an incredible person, an amazing broadcaster, and someone who was incredibly dedicated to the team and its fans. He will be missed.
Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay up to date on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
Islanders' Alexander Romanov 'Could Be' Ready For The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs
Defenseman Alexander Romanov could be ready for the start of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs if the New York Islanders qualify, per general manager Mathieu Darche.
Romanov, who sustained a right-shoulder injury that required surgery on Nov. 18, was expected to be out until mid-playoffs, but he's progressed faster than they expected.
"Romy is doing really, really well," Darche said following the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline. "You see him before practice. There's a chance he could be ready for the playoffs, if not, like, very early in the playoffs. So he's trending really well right now. It was a long shot for the playoffs. He's rehabbing really well. It's still, like, it's borderline for playoffs, but there is a chance."
So you are saying there's a chance?
Islanders’ Alexander Romanov Progressing After Shoulder SurgeryRomanov is back on the ice, firing shots as he continues a challenging recovery. His mid-playoff-round return date hasn't changed. Per the amended CBA playoff rules, a team's game roster must be salary cap compliant. That means the Islanders need to fit Romanov's $6 million cap hit into their lineup.
Looking at the books, the Islanders currently have $3.521,236 in available cap space, but that's for the entirety of the roster.
If Romanov is back on the playoff roster, likely on the left side of Scott Mayfield in place of Carson Soucy, the Islanders' game roster cap hit would be $85.89 million, almost $10 million below the $95.5 million salary cap.
That's based on this roster:
Palat-Horvat-Barzal
Ritchie-Schenn-Heineman
Lee-Pageau-Holmstrom
MacLean-Cizikas-Gatcomb
Schaefer-Pulock
Pelech-DeAngelo
Romanov-Mayfield
Sorokin
Rittich
The Islanders currently sit tied in points for second place in the Metropolitan Division with 19 games to go.
Troy Murray, former Blackhawks player and broadcaster, dies at 63
CHICAGO (AP) — Troy Murray, who played 12 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks and transitioned into becoming the team’s long-time broadcasting analyst, has died. He was 63.
The Blackhawks announced on Saturday that Murray died earlier in the day, without specifying where.
Nicknamed “Muzz,” Murray revealed in August 2021 he had been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatments. He did not specify the type of cancer he had or provide any other details about his condition. Murray continued working on Blackhawks broadcasts, though at a diminished workload, before stepping away entirely this season.
Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said the organization was “deeply heartbroken.”
“Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk so far beyond his incredible playing career, with his presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years,” Wirtz said.
“During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him,” Wirtz added. “While our front office won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Troy.”
Murray was best known as one of the Blackhawks most respected leaders during a 15-year NHL career that ended with him winning a Stanley Cup in his lone season with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996.
After spending the following season with the International Hockey League Chicago Wolves, Murray stayed in the city to begin his broadcasting career in 1998. Murray also became president of the Blackhawks alumni association.
“Troy Murray is remembered for not only his contributions on the ice, but for his professionalism and humility and dedication to the city of Chicago,” the team said in a release. “He leaves behind a lasting legacy within the Blackhawks family and the broader hockey world.”
Selected by Chicago in the third round of the 1980 draft, the center broke in with the Blackhawks by playing one game as a 19-year-old during the 1981-82 season.
From Calgary, Alberta, Murray topped 20 goals five times, including a career-best 45 goals and 99 points in 1985-86, while also known for his defensive play. That same season, he became the Blackhawks’ first player to win the NHL’s Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league’s top defensive forward.
Murray finished with 197 goals and 488 points in 688 games over two stints with the Blackhawks, and also played for Winnipeg, where he served as the Jets captain, Ottawa and Pittsburgh. Overall, he had 230 goals and 584 points in 915 career games.
Murray played collegiately at North Dakota, and earned WCHA rookie of the year honors as a freshman in 1981, and the following year helped the school win its fourth NCAA championship. In 1982, he also was captain of the Canada’s world junior championships gold medal-winning team.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
___
AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
New Jets Jacob Bryson, Isak Rosen Expected To Make Winnipeg Debut vs Canucks
On the night before the NHL trade deadline, the Winnipeg Jets made their biggest move yet, sending defensemen Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a pair of draft picks, defenseman Jacob Bryson and prospect forward Isak Rosen.
According to Jets head coach Scott Arniel, both Bryson and Rosen are expected to make their Jets debut Saturday when Winnipeg takes on the Vancouver Canucks.
Bryson, 28, arrives in Winnipeg after serving as a steady depth option on Buffalo’s blue line this season. The London, Ontario native has appeared in 35 games with the Sabres, recording five points and posting a minus-one rating. Originally selected in the fourth round of the NHL Draft, Bryson has developed into a reliable NHL defenseman during his time in Buffalo.
He has played for the Sabres in each of the past six seasons and has only seen limited time in the American Hockey League. One stint came during his first professional season after leaving college, while two others were brief assignments totaling just 15 games. Bryson is expected to fill a role similar to the one Schenn held for much of this season, providing dependable depth on the Jets' blue line.
Winnipeg got the best pending-UFA in the trade lmaooo 💀💀💀 pic.twitter.com/n5sEbZxTiM
— Justin 🫶🇨🇦 (@Justin_L_99) March 6, 2026
Rosen, 22, could turn out to be one of the more intriguing pieces of the trade for Winnipeg. Selected 14th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, the Swedish forward has shown flashes of potential but has not yet secured a permanent role in the NHL with Buffalo.
Rosen has played 31 NHL games across three call-ups with the Sabres, recording eight points during those appearances. Most of his development has come in the American Hockey League, where he has steadily improved each year.
This season he has been particularly productive, scoring 25 goals and adding 18 assists for 43 points in 37 games. Now in his fourth professional season, Rosen has developed into a point per game player at the AHL level. While he may still need more time before becoming a full time NHL player, he has the potential to grow into a depth scoring option for Winnipeg in the near future.
The Jets enter Saturday’s matchup riding strong momentum after defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning 4 to 1 on Thursday. The win improved Winnipeg’s recent record to 5-2-3 over their last ten games. They will look to extend that hot stretch Saturday in a favorable matchup against a Vancouver team currently sitting at the bottom of the standings. With two new players expected to debut, the game could provide the first glimpse at how the Jets’ deadline move might shape the roster moving forward.
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Flyers Recall Exciting Forward Prospect & Send D-Man To AHL
The Philadelphia Flyers have made some roster moves ahead of their matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday.
The Flyers have announced that they have recalled forward Alex Bump from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. In addition, they shared that defenseman Adam Ginning has been assigned back to Lehigh Valley.
Bump getting called up is notable, as he is one of the Flyers' most exciting prospects. The 2022 fifth-round pick has played in 36 games this season with the Phantoms, where he has recorded 11 goals, 15 assists, and 26 points. Now, he will be getting his first chance on the Flyers' roster.
As for Ginning, the left-shot defenseman has played in five games this season with the Flyers, where he has zero points and an even plus/minus rating. Down in the AHL with Lehigh Valley, he has posted one goal, four points, 20 penalty minutes, and a minus-7 rating in 31 games.