After reports revealed that the Toronto Maple Leafs were bringing in Nick Blankenburg on a professional tryout, the team officially announced the PTO signing on Monday. 

With that, the 28-year-old defenseman will join the Leafs at training camp and pre-season, as long as the club is willing to keep him around for that long. 

However, Blankenburg would only officially be a member of the Maple Leafs if they signed him to a standard professional contract. And as it stands, Toronto doesn't have the space to do so.

The Leafs have the maximum number of standard contracts signed within the organization (50), according to PuckPedia. 

Therefore, if Leafs management is impressed and pleased with how Blankenburg performs in training camp, to the point where they would want to add him to the main roster for the 2026-27 regular season, GM John Chayka would need to make some roster moves.

In addition to the Maple Leafs needing to make changes if they'd prefer to keep Blankenburg on the roster beyond training camp, there's already a backlog of depth defensemen in the system. 

There are already several candidates to fill the role of the seventh D-man, including Troy Stecher, who signed a two-year extension with Toronto in late June, and Emil Andrae, the main acquisition in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers. Not to mention, Marshall Rifai, William Villeneuve, Dakota Mermis and Philippe Myers are all capable of NHL minutes, albeit some better than others.

Emil Andrae Shares Reaction To Maple Leafs Trade, Pumped For A 'Fresh Start'Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Emil Andrae said he suspected that he would get traded from the Philadelphia Flyers. "But when I found out it was Toronto, I couldn't be happier."

If Toronto were willing to dump a defenseman for Blankenburg, one of those mentioned blueliners would likely be sacrificed. And if room was made for the 5-foot-9 D-man by moving off a player from another position instead, that would only add to the logjam on the back end.

In fairness, having substantial depth on any roster at any position is a strength and can lead to success in the NHL. But the Maple Leafs would also need to keep an eye on the salary cap and remain compliant, especially if they want to leave room for any moves during the coming season.

Currently, with Max Domi's $3.75-million cap hit not on long-term injured reserve, the Leafs are over the salary cap by $2.75 million.

Report: Maple Leafs’ Max Domi Will Miss Start of Training Camp, Remains Out Indefinitely GM John Chayka SaysChayka also added that Domi wants to address the injury himself at some point.

One theory regarding Blankenburg's PTO revolves around the health and status of defenseman Chris Tanev. The 36-year-old Tanev said he's feeling good going into this season, but confirmation from his doctors is still required. 

He underwent a significant core muscle injury in March and has gone through the off-season recovering from that. That's on top of the concussion and a spinal injury he dealt with, leading to just 11 appearances for Toronto last year. So, Blankenburg could be seen as an insurance policy. 

If the news for Tanev isn't positive and the Leafs are forced to be without him for some time to begin 2026-27, Blankenburg could be activated as an insurance policy. 

Report: Chris Tanev Waiting To Be Cleared By Doctors, Plans To Be On Ice First Day Of Maple Leafs CampWhile Tanev aims to be ready for the opening day of camp, Tanev described his rehab from surgery in March as "slow". The veteran defender has to show that the injury issues of last year are fully in the rearview mirror.

Blankenburg has played parts of five seasons and featured in a total of 176 games in the NHL. Last year, he made a career-high 61 appearances split between the Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche, scoring a personal-best six goals and 24 points. 

He didn't get much action with the Presidents' Trophy-winning Avs, averaging 12:02 of ice time in 12 regular-season games and 9:25 of ice time in nine post-season contests. But before he was traded from Nashville, he averaged 17:58 of ice time with the Preds in 2025-26.

See more of The Hockey News on Google — Save us as Preferred Source

---

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.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have 16 days until opening night at Nationwide Arena. Today, we look at the history of jersey #16. 

Let's take a look.

Mike Sillinger - 2002-2003 - Drafted by Detroit in 1989. 

Sillinger is best known for playing for 12 different NHL teams and being traded nine times. He played 155 games for the CBJ and had 86 points. He retired in 2008 after playing 1089 games for 12 different teams. 

Of course, nowadays, he's best known for being the father of Jackets forwards Cole and Owen Sillinger. 

Alexander Svitov - 2004-2007 - Drafted by Tampa Bay in 2001. 

Svitov played 105 games for the Jackets and scored 26 points after being traded from the Tampa Bay Lightning. After playing in Columbus, the former #3 overall pick never played another NHL game.

He returned to Russia, where he would play until 2022. Svitov is now an assistant coach for Avangard Omsk in the KHL. 

Derick Brassard - 2008-2013 - Drafted by Columbus in 2006. 

Brassard was drafted 6th overall in the 2006 NHL Draft. He totaled 169 points in 309 games while playing for Columbus. 

After playing over 1000 games for 10 different teams, Brassard retired in 2024. Brassard is a minority owner of the Gatineau Olympiques of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League. 

Max Domi - 2021-2022 - Drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes in 2012. 

Domi played 107 games for the Jackets after coming over from the Montreal Canadiens in the Josh Anderson trade. He had 56 points for Columbus and was then traded to the Carolina Hurricanes.

Since leaving Columbus, he's played for Carolina, Chicago, Dallas, and Toronto. He's played for 7 teams in 10 seasons, although he's played the last three seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs. In three seasons, he has 116 points. 

Brendan Gaunce - 2023-2026 - Drafted by Vancouver in 2012. 

Gaunce played 59 games for the Jackets and had 12 points. He served as the Cleveland Monsters Captain in 23-24 and totaled 85 points for the Monsters over three seasons.

He signed with the AHL's Iowa Wild for the 2024-25 season and recorded 29 points. However, this summer, Gaunce was traded back to the Columbus organization in exchange for Cameron Butler. After playing 25 games for the CBJ and 44 games for Cleveland last season, he left in free agency to sign with the AHL's Providence Bruins. 

There are 16 days left until opening night at NWA. Who's your favorite #16?

Stay updated with the most interesting Blue Jackets stories, analysis, breaking news, and more!

Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News and never miss a story.

Let us know what you think below.

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. Share your thoughts by commenting on the article below on THN.com or by creating your own post in our community forum.

Although two days remain until the start of training camp for the Philadelphia Flyers, it's never too late for an infusion of young talent, especially at the defense position.

Ahead of what was ultimately an uneventful offseason bar the Leo Carlsson offer sheet, the Flyers made public their desire to improve the defense. Aside from the addition of Simon Benoit, who was part of the Joseph Woll trade, that hasn't happened.

In free agency, pickings were already slim, and a potential dart-throw for a power play quarterback in John Klingberg is off the table; the veteran defender announced his retirement on Friday.

The Flyers already went the offer sheet route once with Carlsson to much fanfare, which leaves the trade market as their last path to improve ahead of the start of the 2026-27 regular season.

Unsigned RFA defenseman Alexander Nikishin, who isn't eligible for an offer sheet anyway, apparently requested a trade this offseason and is sticking to it. That should be music to the Flyers' ears.

Flyers a perfect fit for Nikishin

On Monday, The Athletic NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reported on the state of affairs with the young Carolina Hurricanes defender, confirming that a resolution isn't immediately forthcoming.

"Defenseman Alexander Nikishin remains unsigned by the Carolina Hurricanes as camps get set to open," LeBrun said. "The 24-year-old RFA requested a change of scenery after the season, and one thing that was made clear to me Monday is that the request remains in place."

Drafted 69th overall in the third round of the 2020 NHL Draft, Nikishin just played his first full season in North America after a four-game cameo for Carolina in last year's playoffs, scoring 11 goals, 22 assists, and 33 points in 81 games, but regressing to just one assist in 17 playoff games as the Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup.

Nikishin, 24, featured more in the regular season primarily due to injury, as K'Andre Miller and Jalen Chatfield each played 72 games, Shayne Gostisbehere played only 55, and Jaccob Slavin missed more than half the year, playing in only 39.

The talented 6-foot-3 Russian was an afterthought for a full-strength Hurricanes team in the playoffs, and rightfully so; they won it all.

Still, Nikishin had a strong showing in his first NHL season, and a featured role elsewhere would allow him to grow further and continue to improve on his warts.

It helps, too, that Nikishin was once the captain of KHL outfit SKA St. Petersburg for two seasons and was teammates with budding Flyers star Matvei Michkov there. Those are two factors that cannot be overlooked.

From Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky's perspective, it would perhaps be unwise to spend big to re-sign a player who played a depth role for you after just winning the Stanley Cup, with Slavin, Miller, and Gostisbehere all firmly ahead on the depth chart on the left side.

That does hurt Carolina's leverage, though, as other teams, including the Flyers, know that they will have more of a use for Nikishin than the Hurricanes.

The longer this situation drags out, the bigger an opportunity it becomes for the Flyers to snag a productive young defenseman who held his own on a winning team after being thrown right into the fire.

Welcome back, everyone. It’s Tuesday! ///Jason Alexander as Duckman voice

The Bruins finished up their prospect challenge; actually managing to pull away with both games after monday, and while there’s plenty to like; Loke Johansson looked really solid as a defenseman, Dans Locmelis holding the fort with poise and maturity after coming back from an injury, and the warm fuzzies of knowing the youngs can at least handle the Sabres like in years’ past…the talk of the Prospect Challenge was of course Jimmy Hagens, who was very obviously a man amongst boys out there; pretty much single handedly winning the 2nd game of the day in a preposterous 4 goal game.

That kid is something else, but really, we should expect that from a prospect of Hagens’ caliber playing against prospects on their way back to school/junior/minor league. He’s clearly a head and a half above these guys aside from maybe Locmelis, who’s been quietly building himself into a damn solid player. We’ll see how he handles real NHL talent come this october, but for now, let’s bask in the word of the mighty Jimmy.

PT-Nope!

The Bruins announced that, for the 2nd year in a row, there will be no Professional Tryouts at this year’s preseason and training camp. The roster you see when camp opens is the roster they’re gonna pare down.

As for anyone that they could’ve brought in? Uhh…Nick Blankenburg would probably be decent value, Michael Bunting’s probably not at that point in his career but nobody’s bitten on him yet. It’s not really a PTO heavy environment right now. You’re probably better off trying to identify players other teams don’t believe in for dumb reasons and plucking them out of their environ for 3rd rounders at this point.

Who knows, maybe Boston’s scouting department busts down Don Sweeney’s door and says that the B’s could be the space Patrik Laine finally figures it out*

Welcome to last minute shopping season

The Bruins, alongside the rest of the NHL, are on the precipice of the new CBA, which limits the amount of years you can put on a UFA/RFA contract, and that’s expected to cause a stir as teams make their final signings under the old ruleset.

As for whether or not that’s wise? Well, cap’s going up, so it is a little harder than it would be to put yourself in hell. But don’t you worry, some of these GMs are gonna find a way. Hell, Pat Verbeek’s already blazing a path for us all. What an inspiration!

Preseason is soon!

Finally, hockey’s back. Or at least it’s as close to back as it’s gonna get.

The B’s will start preseason against the Washington Capitals, who will come to town with their Hershey Bears laden roster and attempt to take on real bears. That game is at 5pm EST and is on NESN+, because Red Sox september baseball is real, and you just gotta see the Sox play the median Tampa Bay Rays player.

You know, the median Tampa Bay Rays player.

Anyway get ready to pirate preseason hockey if you don’t pay for NESN+. Whoops!

---

Anyway, what’s on tap?

* = DON’T DO THIS DON’T DO THIS DON’T DO THIS LOOK ME DEAD IN THE EYES THIS IS A JOKE DO NOT DO THIS.

NHL teams need to fiinish getting rosters in order with training camps opening on Thursday, Sept. 17.

There's another deadline before that with the new collective-bargaining agreement taking effect at 12:01 a.m. on Wedneday.

After that, eight-year contracts can no longer be offered by a team re-signing its own player and it will drop to seven years maximum (or six years for signing a player from another team). Teams also face changes that limit signing bonuses and how they front-load contracts.

Here are some things that need to be settled with training camps on the horizon:

Dylan Larkin and Connor Hellebuyck trade requests

The two U.S. Oympic gold medalists have asked to be traded and Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck made his request public this month.

Both are under contract long-term, so they need to report or they won't get paid. Dylan Larkin said he will show up to camp and will have conversations with the Red Wings' new general manager about the direction of the team. But Detroit is still looking to make that hire.

If the players are moved, their teams will need to get a solid return rather than picks and prospects. The Jets signed Stuart Skinner in the offseason, but it would make sense to get another goalie back

Restricted free agents to re-sign

Anaheim Ducks leading scorer Cutter Gauthier and Columbus Blue Jackets forward Adam Fantilli are the big names. The Ducks have more than $15.5 million in cap space after terminating Chris Kreider's contract, Leo Carlsson is the team's top-paid player at an $18 million cap hit after Anaheim matched the Philadelphia Flyers' offer sheet.

Fantilli finished second on the Blue Jackets in goals (24) and third period in points (59). TSN's Pierre Lebrun said the Gauthier talks are making progress while the Fantilli talks are going slow.

Defensemen Alexander Nikishin (Carolina), Simon Edvinsson (Detroit) and Arber Zhekaj remain unsigned.

Quinn Hughes extension

Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin is confident he can get an extension done with the defenseman, who he gave up a lot to acquire last season. Hughes told reporters he has enjoyed his time in Minnesota but is preaching patience.

"I think if you look at a player like Quinn, you only get to free agency one time," J.P. Barry, agent Pat Brisson's colleague at CAA, told the Donnie and Dhali podcast. " I think he wants to make a great choice. He's only been there around a year or so, even less, so I think he wants to see how the team does and how he feels."

Hughes is entering the last year of his contract. A three-year extension would match him up with the end of his brother Jack's contract in New Jersey.

Captain vacancies

The New York Islandersnamed Bo Horvat to replace departed Anders Lee and Robert Thomas was appointed early in St. Louis. But there remain vacancies in Anaheim, Boston, Chicago, Columbus, Detroit, Los Angeles, Ottawa, San Jose and Vancouver. The Red Wings stripped Larkin of his captaincy.

David Pastrnak (Bruins) and Zach Werenski (Blue Jackets) seem like logical choices and Moritz Seider would make sense in Detroit.

Chicago and San Jose have future captains in Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini, respectively. Do those teams go with the young rising stars now or wait? Bedard will miss the beginning of the season because of shoulder surgery.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NHL training camps are approaching. Here are top issues to be decided.

The Martin family will be hosting Matthew Schaefer this upcoming season again whether they like it or not. 

The 19-year-old NHL star made the joke on Monday during the Islanders golf outing at the Glen Oaks Club in Old Westbury when a reporter asked if Matt Martin and his family wanted him back. 

“I don’t know if they want me back, but I’m going back,” Schaefer said. “I mean, I kept my stuff there and then I’m like, I’m coming back. I guess they can’t say no. I think they want me out probably sooner, but you know what? I’m like, ‘Hey, I’m planting my seed here and I’m staying here.’”

Matthew Schaefer is staying with the Martin Family again this season – whether they like it or not @NYIslanders | #Islespic.twitter.com/8fvGUsjdRa

— Isles on MSGSN (@IslesMSGN) September 14, 2026

It’s doubtful that the Martin family really wants Schaefer out sooner than later, considering how big a part of their family he has become. 

Martin, who played 16 seasons in the NHL, including 14 with the Islanders before becoming an executive with the organization, welcomed the teenager into his home last season, and Schaefer quickly created a bond with the family.

In particular, he has taken on a big brother role to the family’s two daughters, Winnie and Alice. Martin’s wife, Sydney, has shared a number of adorable moments involving Schaefer and the Martin kids on social media. 

Earlier this month, Sydney posted on Instagram a photo of Schaefer celebrating his 19th birthday with the family. 

Martin praised how Schaefer carries himself on SiriusXM last month and said that the now second-year star would be staying with him and his family again this upcoming NHL season. 

“From the moment he kind of stepped in our house and met our family, before it was ever decided he was going to live with us, you just feel the type of kid he is, the type of energy he has,” Martin said in the August interview. “Kind of gravitated towards our kids and our kids gravitated towards him. It’s a really special thing for my kids.” 

Schaefer is coming into this season looking to build off a monumental rookie campaign that saw him win the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie. 

He recorded 23 goals and 59 points while appearing in all 82 games during the 2025-26 season.

The Calgary Flames’ rookies got their first taste of game action at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Monday night, hosting the Edmonton Oilers in the NextGen showcase.

The Oilers controlled the game offensively and came away with a 6-1 victory, while the Flames got a chance to put several of their young prospects in a game setting in front of a home crowd.

Edmonton opened the scoring on the power play in the first period.

Quinn Hutson walked into the high slot and ripped a wrist shot blocker side past Flames goaltender Arsenii Sergeev to give the Oilers a 1-0 lead.

The opening period also featured some physicality, with Maceo Phillips dropping the gloves with Weston Cameron in a spirited bout. Phillips ultimately came away with the takedown.

The Oilers added to their lead late in the opening frame. Zach Bookman sent a shot toward the net from the blue line that bounced in front of Sergeev before finding its way through the goaltender’s pads to make it 2-0.

It was a difficult one for Sergeev, who likely would have wanted another look at the goal.

The Flames finished the opening 20 minutes trailing 2-0, with Edmonton holding a narrow 7-6 edge in shots.

Calgary had a couple of good opportunities early in the second half of the game, but Edmonton eventually extended its advantage.

With Kirill Zarubin taking over in net for Sergeev midway through the game as scheduled, a bouncing puck found its way into the crease. Caden Harvey was quick to react, swatting the loose puck past Zarubin to make it 3-0.

The Oilers then added another on the power play. Edmonton moved the puck quickly around the Flames penalty kill before a tic-tac-toe sequence ended with Isaac Howard redirecting the puck into the net, giving the Oilers a four-goal cushion.

The Flames finally got on the board at 8:55 of the third period.

Aydar Suniev created the opportunity himself, slipping past an Oilers defender before cutting to the forehand and tucking the puck past Samuel Jonsson. Tyson Gross picked up the assist on Suniev’s goal.

Calgary couldn’t find another one, however, and Edmonton added an empty-net goal and another late tally from Kyle Heger to close out the 6-1 victory.

Despite the final score, the NextGen game provided an important opportunity for several Flames prospects to get their first game action ahead of the preseason and make an impression as the organization evaluates its young players.

Three Takeaways

Castagna strong in the faceoff circle

Jonathan Castagna stood out on the draws, particularly in the offensive zone. Winning possession off the faceoff created immediate scoring opportunities, and Castagna consistently gave the Flames a chance to start with the puck.

Iginla wears No. 88

Joe Iginla suited up for the Flames wearing No. 88, the same number his father, Jarome Iginla, wore during his time with the Los Angeles Kings. It’s a small detail, but one that didn’t go unnoticed on a night where the younger Iginla made his Saddledome debut with the Flames organization.

Gridin creates opportunities

Matvei Gridin was one of the Flames players who consistently found ways to generate offence. He created multiple quality chances, while his passing was firm and crisp throughout the game.

There was a level of poise to Gridin’s game that made him look like a more established presence than many of the players on the ice.

The Chicago Blackhawks prospects took the ice at USG Arena against the St. Louis Blues prospects on Monday night. This was the first of two meetings in the 2026 Prospect Showcase that the two organizations are participating in. 

For the Blackhawks, marquee prospects like Sacha Boisvert, Marek Vanacker, AJ Spellacy, Adam Gajan, and Ryan Roobroeck all took part. The leadership group was led by captain Taige Harding and alternate captains Paul Ludwinski and Jake Furlong. 

There were some notable spectators taking in the game. For one, Kyle Davidson, Jeff Blashill, and multiple executives/coaches were on hand to get a glimpse of the future. A handful of players within the organization were also in attendance, including Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov. 

The Blackhawks started with as good a top line as they could put out at this event: Sacha Boisvert, centering AJ Spellacy and Ryan Roobroeck. Adam Gajan started in goal. 

After the top line created some good chances off the jump, they were forced into a penalty-kill situation. Martin Misiak, however, scored a shorthanded goal to give the Blackhawks a 1-0 lead. 

🚨 Replay 🚨 https://t.co/5YugVmDm51pic.twitter.com/GtOXrVx4gh

— CHGO Blackhawks (@CHGO_Blackhawks) September 14, 2026

The Blackhawks continued to march to the penalty box after that, and eventually, one of them caught up with them. In the latter half of the first period, Jakub Stancl scored for the St. Louis Blues to tie the game at 1. That score held through the first intermission. 

It was a physical first period, and that continued into the second. Just about halfway through the middle frame, AJ Spellacy got into a little bit of a skirmish behind the St. Louis net after missing a chance. To his defense came Ashton Cumby, who fought Blues prospect Colin Ralph. He will bring another layer of physical hockey to Rockford this year. 

Ashton Cumby comes to the defense of AJ Spellacy. He threw some absolute haymakers. #Blackhawkspic.twitter.com/zCdvU18xMx

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) September 15, 2026

Not long after that, the Blackhawks went to the penalty kill. It led to another Blues power play goal. Shortly (10 seconds) later, they found another to make it 3-1. At that point in the game, the Blues were in a groove. 

After two periods, the Blues hung onto that two-goal lead. With under a minute remaining in the middle frame, AJ Spellacy rang one off the pipe after bursting into the offensive zone, but it wouldn't go in.

pic.twitter.com/aIBbrvH1NI

— CHGO Blackhawks (@CHGO_Blackhawks) September 15, 2026

In the third period, the ice was a lot more level, but no goals were scored. The final score of 3-1 held in favor of the Blues. It was a physical battle from the opening whistle onward, but the Blackhawks took the bulk of the penalties which put them in trouble. 

One more match between these two groups of prospects will take place at 4 PM on Tuesday evening at USG Arena. 

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 on the article below on THN.com or by creating your own post in our community forum.

Over the last few days, RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House in Newark, New Jersey, has been filled with high energy, the sound of whistles, and the unmistakable soundtrack of hockey.

The New Jersey Devils invited 25 players to their 2026 Rookie Camp, which opened Friday, Sept. 11. The group has completed two practices and one scrimmage against the New York Islanders, falling 5-4 in overtime.

Ahead of the team’s final scrimmage, which will take place in Long Island on Tuesday, Kristy Flannery of The Hockey News emptied her notebook with some news and notes she has collected this past weekend. 

Odds and Ends From Rookie Camp

— Shane Lachance referred to his first season in the pro league as a rollercoaster: “I think the beginning of the year was tough because we didn't win many games. Then I got called up, I was up for a week and then sent back down, and we started winning more. It is a long year, and I think that is the biggest change. So much happens over the course of the year that, mentally, you have to try to keep your head on straight. Coming from college into the pros, that is probably the biggest thing for me - just how long the season is.”

Lachance shared that he tries not to overthink things, but it is something he occasionally struggles with.

“I think in our job, you are always thinking, what can I do better? Did I do the right thing? Sometimes I have to tell myself to just go out there, have fun, and play the game because I am here for a reason.” 

— While some players have their eyes set on making the NHL rosters, other players at the Devils rookie camp hope to play in the American Hockey League full time. That is the case for 22-year-old defenseman Charles Leddy, whom New Jersey drafted in the fourth round in 2022. He spent last season at Quinnipiac University before signing an AHL contract through the 2027-28 season in March. He began his collegiate career at Boston College as a political science major, but ultimately earned his degree in international business. 

— JakubMálek’s excitement for the 2026-27 season is palpable. Sitting at his stall next to Jeremy Brodeur, he smiled from ear to ear, talking about the upcoming job ahead of him: “This is the first time I [can] say that I'm excited for a season this much. I am always excited, but this is something I never felt before. I'm so excited to go to work.”

— Speaking of Málek, he finally received his goalie mask. Its delivery may have been a season too late, but he was thrilled to showcase it and share some personal touches, including nods to two of his closest friends. 

#NJDevils Jakub Málek finally received the goalie mask he was supposed to wear for the 2025-26 season. It has some awesome touches, including nods to his best friends and the movie Cool Runnings. pic.twitter.com/FCdcWdWfUK

— Kristy Flannery (@InStilettos_NHL) September 12, 2026

— For a second consecutive season, Málek will be living with forward Matyas Melovsky. The two are best friends and say they are always together. 

— Melovskyplayed with Lenni Hämeenaho last season in Utica, and during camp, The Hockey News asked Melovsky if that chemistry instantly came back this week. He laughed and said, “Yeah, the Euro chemistry.” 

— Newcomer Ben Steeves has been skating with Melovsky and Hämeenaho. After Monday’s practice, The Hockey News spoke to the 24-year-old. 

THN: Coaches always say that they usually keep pairs together on a line, and the third player they may insert in and out. If you're that guy who's playing with people who already have chemistry together are there any attributes or characteristics you need as the third player coming onto a line? 

Steeves: Yeah, absolutely. You hit the nail on the head. It is simplifying and being predictable for your teammates. Throughout my entire career, I have tried to be a player like that. An easy player to play with. Especially playing with these guys, it is holding on to pucks and making good flat passes. Making it easier on each other is a big thing.

THN: What was the first thing you noticed about Melovsky and Hämeenaho?  

Steeves: They are smart. When they have the puck, they are always looking for the next play. There's no real time on the ice where they can't do anything with it. They always make stuff happen, so it is really cool to watch that.

— Speaking of Steeves, he was on a golf course when he received a call from Devils general manager Sunny Mehta to alert him that he was traded to New Jersey: “That was a cool moment. (Mehta) was obviously in Florida with me and brought me with him. Definitely happy to get a new opportunity here.” 

— Seamus Casey has been impressed with his new D-partner, Anton Silaev: “I think he is doing incredible. He is super involved with the team. It is easy to shy away and kind of shut down, only talk to people who you can understand, that kind of thing. He is not doing any of that. I have a lot of respect for that. Obviously, we are trying to help out too, and make it easy for him.”

Make sure you bookmark THN's New Jersey Devils site for THN's latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much 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.

While the fate of some Philadelphia Flyers prospects is already sealed in terms of where they'll play in the 2026-27 season, many of the top dogs will have plenty of opportunities to earn themselves an NHL roster spot. Training camp hasn't officially started yet, but for them it has.

Not every young Flyers prospect with something to prove is at rookie camp this week. For example, players like Hunter McDonald and David Jiricek, who aren't established NHLers, were left off the rookie camp roster.

Conversely, Denver Barkey, Alex Bump, and Porter Martone are all on the ice having to prove themselves, with each player dressing for at least one of the two Rookie Series games against the New York Rangers over the weekend.

But, even when we remove McDonald, Jiricek, Barkey, Bump, and Martone from the equation, the Flyers still have a healthy amount of competition.

On defense, Oliver Bonk and Ty Murchison will be working to make their argument for an NHL roster spot, having to compete with the likes of McDonald, Jiricek, and veteran newcomer Simon Benoit for a place on the Flyers.

By the time training camp starts on Thursday, their strong work in rookie camp this week could be a feather in their caps; the process of making a strong impression is already in motion.

"We were pretty direct in the first meeting that we had for rookie camp, is that their camp is starting now. So with the new makeup of how the training camps are now in the NHL, there's not a whole lot of time to make an impression. So, for the rookies and the guys that are coming into main camp, they got to be ready to go right from the start of this camp," Lehigh Valley Phantoms head coach John Snowden said after practice Monday with an exclamatory two-hand tap at the podium.

'Sneaky' Oliver Bonk Impressing Flyers In Rookie CampPhiladelphia Flyers defenseman Oliver Bonk is consistently drawing praise from his coaches, even during a simple rookie camp.

Bump, Barkey, Martone, Noah Powell, Cole Knuble, Devin Kaplan, Riley Thompson, Jett Luchanko, Maksim Sokolovskii, Spencer Gill, Jackson Edward, Bonk, and Murchison are the skaters participating in rookie camp who are also listed on the main training camp roster.

On Tuesday morning, they'll take the ice for their last rookie camp session. Wednesday is a team day off, and Thursday is go time.

In the eyes of Snowden and the Flyers, everything those players have done in the building over the last week can work against them or in their favor when it's time to make the important decisions.

"The message [Riley Armstrong] started our rookie camp with, and I've reiterated throughout the whole camp and our staff has reiterated throughout the whole camp, is like, you don't have time to wait around right now. You gotta go, and you gotta hit the ground running. You can't ease your way into these rookie games," Snowden continued.

"Like I said, this is their training camp. It started now. You just got to keep pushing them to make sure they understand that every single time you touch the ice, every single time you walk into the building, it's going to matter. So, make sure you carry yourself the right way, you train the right way, you practice the right way, you play the right way every single time, because everything you do when you walk into this building, it's gonna matter."

Message sent, message received for the Flyers, who have seen players like Powell, Barkey, Knuble, and Bonk crank up the intensity and speed of their play this weekend.

Powell, in particular, played with ferocity against the Rangers, standing out in a different way from the scorer types like Bump and Martone.

And he'll be one of many players with their eyes on the NHL prize when training camp kicks off in a few days.

The New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers faced off in a Rookie Series featuring their top prospects this weekend. The two games were at the PPL Center, the home of the Flyers' American Hockey League affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, and it was a great way to get the rookies ready for the season while bringing hockey back to the fans. 

Saturday’s game felt like a back-to-school day, not just for the players, but also for the staff, scouts, media, and the fans, who were excited to finally see hockey for the first time in months. The Flyers and Rangers aren’t the only teams having these scrimmages either. 

The Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Winnipeg Jets had a prospect challenge in Gatineau, Quebec. The San Jose Sharks hosted a Rookie Faceoff at Tech CU Arena, the home of their AHL affiliate, and it featured six of the Western Conference teams.

The New Jersey Devils had their version as well, hosting the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon at their practice facility, the RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House. It’s something they can and should build on, as many teams around the league have done. 

The Devils Home & Home Against The Islanders

The Devils' practice facilities are connected to Prudential Center in Newark, and there isn’t a lot of seating available for fans. The intention of their exhibition game against the Islanders prospects was to get the players ready for the season; the fans in attendance were a plus. 

That said, it was a surprise to see the venue was full. It shouldn’t be a surprise considering this is the first glimpse of hockey in months but for a game that has zero implications on the standings, there was still an intrigue that brought a crowd on a Sunday afternoon in early September. 

Devils Fall in First Rookie Scrimmage as Cole Eiserman Scores OT WinnerOn Sunday afternoon, the <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/emptying-the-devils-notebook-9-things-you-may-have-missed">New Jersey Devils</a> and <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-islanders">New York Islanders</a> met inside RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House in Newark, New Jersey, for the first game action of the season.

There was a feeling in the building that had the fans engaged. It’s the unknown of the prospects. The Devils don’t have a top prospect pool, but there’s a curiosity surrounding the few names who might crack the NHL roster. How good is the rookie defenseman Anton Silaev? Is there a depth forward poised to impress during training camp? Which prospects are under-the-radar and can turn the Devils into a playoff team? Does the skill in this game translate at the NHL level? 

It’s why the PPL Center drew a strong crowd over the weekend for the Flyers and Rangers prospects. Sure, both teams have a handful of young names ready to make an impact in the NHL. However, catching the future in person before everyone else is what will attract fans to the arena, and the Devils must take note. 

It Makes Sense For The Devils To Play At Their Practice Facilities

It’s easy to look around the league at all of the showcases and wonder why the Devils and Islanders aren’t doing something bigger. Both teams can host in an AHL market or a region that doesn’t see prospects up close often and give them a chance in a competitive atmosphere. 

For the Devils, their practice facilities are in Newark, and it makes sense to have a game there as well. That’s why the Islanders are doing the same on Tuesday night at the Northwell Health Ice Center on Long Island. 

New Jersey Devils Pipeline Shows Promise & Pleasant Surprises Their scrimmage against the New York Islanders provided some optimism for a team that isn’t known for its prospect pool, at least not heading into 2026-27.

For both teams, it’s a trip for the prospects to head to one of their AHL markets to play a few games, especially exhibitions. The Flyers, for example, have their practice facilities in Voorhees, New Jersey, a short drive away from Philadelphia, but Allentown is 63 miles away, making it an easy commute for a game. Utica is 228 miles away from Newark. 

The bottom line is that if the Devils want to do something similar to what the Flyers do, or what the Sharks are hosting, they must find an arena near both their practice facilities and the Islanders. Likewise, the arena shouldn’t be the size of Prudential Center but big enough for a gameday atmosphere, like an AHL or ECHL arena. 

So, Where Could The Devils host A Prospect Showcase?

The Devils can bring their prospects to a college arena, whether it’s the Hobey Baker Memorial Rink in Princeton or ProSkate Ice Arena, which hosts the Rutgers Scarlett Knights. However, both arenas have small capacities, not enough to make them major draws for the Devils. 

There are a few arenas in Upstate New York that would eagerly host an exhibition game, including Albany and Binghamton, two markets that hosted Devils AHL teams in the past. However, like Utica, both are a decent commute. 

The good news is that Trenton now has an ECHL team and can host a rookie series. The bad news is that the ECHL team isn’t affiliated with the Devils, and if the Islanders are hosting, they would likely choose a place that’s closer to them. 

Devils' Prospect Anton Silaev Brings Excitement But Is A Work In ProgressThe top defense prospect in the New Jersey Devils system has the skills to become a great player someday. That said, it will take some time and development first.

An arena that hosted AHL games in the past but won’t this season is Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It’s a great place for the Devils, but the question is whether the Islanders, who moved their team from Bridgeport to Hamilton, would be on board. 

Another option is for the Devils and Islanders to join the Flyers and Rangers in Allentown. In one weekend, fans can watch prospects from all four teams up close. 

Do you think the Devils should host a bigger prospect showcase? If so, where do you think they should host one? Feel free to comment below!

Now a decade into his NHL career, all spent with the Vancouver Canucks, Brock Boeser is using the lessons he’s learned to help lead the next wave of Canucks stars. 

Having been with the organization since he was drafted in 2015, Boeser’s seen Vancouver at various points in their contention status, from hovering at the bottom of the Pacific to claiming a spot atop the division. His lengthy tenure with the team has also ensured that he’s played with, and played for, a long list of people. 

Boeser spent his rookie NHL season led by none-other than Daniel and Henrik Sedin, who are now Vancouver’s co-Presidents of Hockey Operations. He’s worked with new Canucks General Manager Ryan Johnson since his time at the University of North Dakota, and is one of the few players remaining from new Head Coach Manny Malhotra’s first go-around with Vancouver’s coaching staff as an assistant. 

It’ll be these figures that help the Canucks right the ship as they plunge into the choppy waters of a rebuild.  

“First off, just great people in these positions and great hockey minds,” Boeser said in a media availability on Monday. “I think they’re definitely awesome people to have in these positions. But at the same time, I know they’re gonna expect a lot out of all of us.” 

Having known all of these key organizational figures for the bulk of his NHL career, Boeser knows that they’re the right people to help guide Vancouver through a rebuild. 

“You can go up and have a conversation with them and just be yourself, and I think that’s really important to have that connection. And then secondly [...] they know hockey. Obviously the Sedins know hockey, RJ knows hockey, Manny, and I think it’s a great spot to be in.” 

The Sedin culture of the Canucks organization is something that Boeser is deeply familiar with, having gotten to witness it first-hand before seeing it be passed on to others, such as former Canucks and now-New York Islanderscaptain Bo Horvat. 

“Bo learned from the Sedins, and it’s just a trickle effect. When I’d see Bo coming to the rink every day working hard, and all these guys — those guys were so great to me when I was a rookie, and they were super nice, and they helped lead. I think I was the youngest guy, kind of just me by myself, but it’s a little different these days with a lot of young guys, but we’ve got to make sure that we stick together and help lead.” 

Despite only playing with them for a year, Boeser learned lots from the two Canucks legends. 

“They were just such professionals, coming into the rink every day, never complained, wanted to get better each and every day, took care of their bodies. Even when they knew they were retiring and we didn’t, they still were on the bikes after games and taking care of their bodies. They’re just such great professionals, and that’s why everyone loves them, and that’s why I have faith and trust in them right now.” 

That Sedin culture is something that Vancouver is going to need now more than ever. Boeser knows he’s going to have to be a key part in keeping it alive. 

“You can never predict what happens in this league, and obviously, a couple tough years, but we’re in a new chapter now — that’s what I keep saying — and it’s just part of it. We’ve got to re-build this culture back up and really get it going in the right direction.” 

It was only 10 years ago that Boeser was in the same situation that many of Vancouver’s young players are finding themselves in now — breaking into the league on a team that, despite what could be a promising future, looks like they could be set for a rough couple of years before they finally contend. It was players like the Sedins who helped impart their knowledge to Boeser on the ice, and figures like Johnson and Malhotra who helped mentor him off it. 

As Boeser steps into a bigger leadership role to help lead a new, younger Canucks team, he’ll have the assistance of those who did-so for him 10 years before.  

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.

Latest From THN’s Vancouver Canucks Site: 

‘Just Be Myself’: Canucks Center Elias Pettersson Outlines Goals For The 2026–27 Season 

Former Canucks Captain Will Wear The “C” For The Islanders

The Canucks Control The Waiver Wire; Recent History Shows Why It Matters

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.

Former Senators goalie Cam Talbot appears to have found another NHL home.

According to TSN hockey insider Pierre LeBrun, the 39-year-old is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets at some point on Monday. The Jackets haven't confirmed anything yet, but the deal is said to be worth $950,000. PuckPedia reports that the deal includes up to $700,000 in bonuses if he plays  40 games.

If it gets done, Columbus will be the ninth team of Talbot’s NHL career.

Talbot signed with the New York Rangers as a free agent in 2010 and became Henrik Lundqvist’s backup for two years. After that, his stops included the Edmonton Oilers, Philadelphia Flyers, Calgary Flames, Minnesota Wild, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, and, of course, the Senators.

Talbot spent the past two years in Detroit and last season posted a 12-9-6 record with a 3.19 goals-against average and an .883 save percentage over 34 appearances. 

Those numbers, combined with his age, left Talbot unsigned as training camps approached, but in Columbus, Elvis had left the building.

Elvis Merzlikins' shoulder surgery last month created an opportunity for Talbot. The Jackets aren't sure yet when Merzlikins will be ready to return, but he certainly won't be ready to start the season.

Jet Greaves is expected to enter the season as Columbus’s starter, while Columbus also signed journeyman Pheonix Copley.

Talbot’s time in Ottawa was brief and probably remembered most for the ill-advised trade that brought him to the Senators.

In July 2022, the Sens acquired the veteran from Minnesota in a one-for-one deal for Filip Gustavsson, whose previous season in the capital hadn't been particularly impressive.

GM Pierre Dorion was looking for immediate stability. Instead, he watched Gustavsson provide it for the Wild, while Talbot lasted only one season in Ottawa.

At 39 and still unsigned as September arrived, Talbot has probably begun to think seriously about life after hockey. Instead, the unexpected opening in Columbus has given him at least one more kick at the can.

By Steve Warne
The Hockey News

This article was first published in The Hockey News. For more Sens coverage at The Hockey News, click on one of the latest THN Ottawa headlines below:

Thomas Chabot Turns The Page: ‘We Take Pride In What We Have Here’
Alex Formenton Gets Second Chance, Reunited With D.J. Smith In Edmonton
Senators GM: 'We Have A Number Of Players Who Can Be Our Next Captain”
Senators Stars React To Brad Marchand's Social Media Dig At Tim Stutzle

On this day in 2018, the Detroit Red Wings announced that captain Henrik Zetterberg's career was over due to a degenerative back injury, closing the book on one of the most decorated careers in franchise history. 

The announcement came at the team's training camp in Traverse City, Michigan, with general manager Ken Holland confirming that Zetterberg had made little progress in his recovery over the offseason and would not be able to play again. Zetterberg went on long term injured reserve with three years remaining on his 12 year, $73 million contract, allowing him to continue being paid while the Red Wings received salary cap relief.

Zetterberg spent his entire 15 season NHL career with Detroit after being drafted in the seventh round, 210th overall, in 1999, one of the sport's greatest late round draft gems that would go on to become a franchise cornerstone. He made his NHL debut in October 2002 and quickly established himself as one of the league's premier two way forwards.

The signature moment of his career came in 2008, when Zetterberg helped lead the Red Wings to the Stanley Cup and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP. He was also a Selke Trophy finalist multiple times over his career for his work as one of the league's top defensive forwards. 

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

In 2013, Zetterberg was named captain of the Red Wings, taking over from the legendary Nicklas Lidstrom, and wore the "C" for six seasons. During that stretch, he won the NHL Foundation Award in 2013 and the King Clancy Trophy in 2015, honors that recognize leadership and humanitarian contribution both on and off the ice.

On the international stage, Zetterberg was one of the most accomplished players of his generation for Sweden, becoming a member of the Triple Gold Club by winning an Olympic gold medal, a World Championship gold medal and the Stanley Cup. He won Olympic gold in 2006 and world championship titles in 2001 and 2005, adding to a resume that placed him among Sweden's greatest hockey exports.

Zetterberg finished his NHL career with 1,082 games played, tallying 337 goals and 623 assists for 960 total points, numbers that rank him among the best players in Red Wings history. 

Following his retirement, the Red Wings would eventually hand the captaincy to Dylan Larkin, but Zetterberg's legacy as one of the most complete players of his era, and one of the most important figures in modern Red Wings history, remains firmly intact.

Never miss a story by adding us to your Google News favorites!

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.

The Florida Panthers play their first pre-season game on Sunday against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Training camp begins in the next few days, and there is plenty to watch as the organization prepares for the start of the 2026-27 season on Sept. 29.

While most of the Panthers lineup is in order, several players will compete for limited spots, looking to make their mark during practices and the four pre-season games. 

Here are three intriguing storylines to follow during training camp.

Who Earns The 13th Forward Role

No role has more competition than the Panthers' 13th forward spot. With Jonah Gadjovich healthy and Garnet Hathaway in the mix as the fourth-line wingers, there really aren't any spots available. Lars Eller was brought in to be the fourth-line winger, and with Brad Marchand expected to miss time to start the season, Sandis Vilmanis could be given the runway to skate with Eetu Luostarinen and Anton Lundell.

That leaves only the 13th-place spot with a large group of players. Cole Schwindt, Cole Reinhardt, Sam Lafferty, John Beecher, and even Angus Crookshank are all worthy of serving as the 13th forward, but only one spot exists.

This will create a competitive training camp and pre-season. 

Three Players The Florida Panthers Risk Losing Through NHL WaiversThe waiver wire is a crucial part of the NHL pre-season schedule as teams around the league make roster cuts. Today, we look at three Florida Panthers players the organization risks losing.

What Is The Extra Defenseman Hierarchy?

Like the forward group, the Panthers' defense corps is settled, barring any injuries. The top pair will be Gustav Forsling and Aaron Ekblad, followed by Niko Mikkola and Seth Jones, with Dmitry Kulikov and Radko Gudas rounding it out. Uvis Balinskis, who was a mainstay due to injuries last year, will be the seventh defenseman to start the year.

After that, the hierarchy is murky. Donovan Sebrango, Tobias Bjornfot, and Alex Petrovic looked solid in the NHL action they received, but are all risks to be claimed off waivers. Marek Alscher, Mikulas Hovorka, and Ludvig Jansson all got NHL experience last year and will be key factors in the AHL. So, if the injury bug strikes the Panthers blueline again, who is first in line to be called up?

Pre-season and training camp might not decide that, but they can determine who gets the first call-up. 

Emil Pieniniemi is another interesting name to watch. He is a 2005-born, 6-foot-3 Finnish defenseman drafted in the third round of the 2023 NHL draft, whom the Panthers acquired in the off-season from the Pittsburgh Penguins. 

Remaining NHL Free Agent Goaltenders The Florida Panthers Can Target To Be The Third StringerAs it stands, the Florida Panthers have two goaltenders on their NHL roster and no real candidates from their AHL team to step up as a third-string goaltender. Who can the Panthers target on the UFA market?

Who Will Be The Third-String Goalie?

At this point, it seems that the Panthers' third-string goalie will be an internal player. 

If so, the three options are Cooper Black, Kirill Gerasimyuk, and Tyler Muszelik. 

Black is likely the best equipped and closest to NHL-ready of the three. Standing a monstrous 6-foot-8, Black posted strong numbers in 42 AHL games last year. While he still does require some development, he may need to be fast-tracked if injuries occur to Jacob Markstrom or Akira Schmid.

Gerasimyuk also posted decent results in the AHL in 2025-26, but at just 23 years old and with limited North American experience, he still needs patience.

Muszelik is the least likely option right now, but things can always change. The 22-year-old has no professional experience so far, as he was recently signed after playing four seasons in the NCAA. 

Asking any of these goaltenders to step into NHL action next year is a difficult question, but with the cap restraints, they may be forced to do so. Some pre-season action will go a long way toward building familiarity against NHL-level opponents. 

---

See more of The Hockey News on Google and save us as a preferred source. 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.