The Colorado Avalanche finally made the difficult decision they spent years trying to avoid.

After multiple seasons weighing Valeri Nichushkin’s elite on-ice impact against recurring injuries and off-ice uncertainty, Colorado has closed the chapter, trading the veteran winger to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-round selection in the NHL Draft.

It brings an end to one of the most complicated tenures in modern Avalanche history.

Nichushkin arrived in Colorado in August 2019 as a low-risk free-agent signing, a player whose NHL career had stalled in Dallas. Over time, he turned into one of the organization’s most important forwards — and one of its most difficult long-term evaluations.

In 404 regular-season games with the Avalanche, Nichushkin recorded 131 goals and 152 assists for 283 points. In the playoffs, his game often elevated even further, finishing with 27 goals and 40 points in 74 postseason appearances, including a major role in Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup championship run.

When he was right, there weren’t many power forwards in the league who looked like him. The size, the speed, the puck protection — it all came together in a way that made him a constant matchup problem and a key driver of Colorado’s puck-possession game.

He also delivered in defining moments. During the 2022 run, Nichushkin played through a broken foot in the Stanley Cup Final and still managed to produce, tying a franchise record with four goals in the series.

But the other side of the story never fully went away.

Injuries consistently interrupted stretches of his tenure, and off-ice issues created a level of uncertainty the Avalanche had to account for year after year. In January 2024, Nichushkin entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and later received a six-month suspension after violating the program’s terms during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Since returning, there were no further public incidents, and head coach Jared Bednar often spoke about his professionalism and impact inside the room. Still, availability remained the constant issue, with injuries limiting him at multiple points during the 2025-26 season and postseason.

For Colorado, the decision ultimately came down to control and clarity. Nichushkin carries a $6.125 million cap hit through the 2029-30 season, and moving that contract gives the Avalanche additional flexibility as they continue reshaping a roster still built around contending.

In return, Colorado acquires three draft picks, including the 43rd overall selection in the 2026 NHL Draft. The second-round pick originally belonged to St. Louis before being moved through multiple trades to Columbus.

The Avalanche are left with cap space, future assets and one less question mark. The Blue Jackets, meanwhile, are betting that the version of Nichushkin who helped drive Colorado to a championship still has plenty of hockey left to give.

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The NHL offseason isn't typically as drama-filled as the NBA's, but this week brought plenty of headlines that caused quite a stir in the Stanley Cup odds. The NHL draft and the official opening of free agency are still to come.

Brady Tkachuk's move to the Florida Panthers put them in a three-way tie for first spot on the odds board with the Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche, while other teams like the Washington Capitals have made stellar moves to bolster their roster ahead of next season.

I break down what Stanley Cup predictions to make now, and which ones to hold out on — or avoid completely with your NHL picks.

🏆 2026-27 Stanley Cup odds

Odds as of 6-25, courtesy of BET99, one of our best betting sites. Sign up with our BET99 promo code, or get one of our other sportsbook promos.

Stanley Cup predictions: 🟢 Teams to bet on now

 Panthers (+750 at Bet99)

This may seem like it's too late, but now is as good a time as any to hop on the Florida Panthers. The Brady Tkachuk trade gives them arguably the best Top 9 in the league, and they still have roughly $6 million in cap space.

One thing they don't have at the moment is a No. 1 netminder signed, but hold your horses. It just so happens trade rumors are picking up steam surrounding the one and only Connor Hellebuyck, and you'll never guess who is mixed up in said rumors...

Elliotte Friedman: There was another interesting theory...obviously Florida really squeezed Ottawa...they knew Brady Tkachuk wanted to go there, there was some people wondering if that's what Florida's gonna do with Connor Hellebuyck - FAN Hockey Show (6/24)

— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 25, 2026

We know this Panthers' front office isn't afraid of going all in, and if they somehow pull this off, you're looking at their odds shifting closer to +450.

 Capitals (+2500 at Bet99)

As a Washington Capitals fan, it brings me great joy to write about how kick ass their offseason has been. Landing players like Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch have shortened their odds from +4500 to +2500, and I think now is the time to hop on before it's too late.

The Caps still have over $12 million in cap space to work with, and the Tuch deal clearly shows this team is ready to go all in as they look to persuade Alex Ovechkin to come back for one more year. 

While Jason Robertson's ask may be a little too steep, there are still plenty of depth guys available in this free agency class to chase.

If Logan Thompson can return to Vezina form next season with a much better offense in front of him, look out.

Stanley Cup predictions: 🟡 Teams to wait on 

 Canadiens (+2500 at Bet99)

The Montreal Canadiens have had a quiet offseason up to this point, and I'm willing to wait and see what they do before I put my hard-earned cash on them.

Their run to the Eastern Conference Final showed promise, but it took two Game 7 wins to get there, and the Hurricanes outclassed them.

Adding another Top 4 defenseman or bolstering the Top 6 with a player like Jason Robertson could push this team one step closer, but until I see them actually do that, I'm holding off.

Sharks (+5000 at Bet99)

Macklin Celebrini is an electric factory, and it looks like the San Jose Sharks were starting to piece things together last year. They have assets coming out the hoo hah — including the second pick of tomorrow's NHL Draft — and a ton of cap space, but let's wait and see what they do with them...

If they trade those assets to get a legit piece, their odds will shorten, but not enough where they aren't worth a flier. If they decide to hold on to those picks and continue a proper rebuild, you're stuck with a +5000 ticket that has almost no shot of cashing next year. Patience, young padawan.

Stanley Cup predictions: 🔴 Teams to avoid

 Oilers (+1000 at Bet99)

To hell with Mike Babcock. I would prefer to use a word that rhymes with duck, but despite writing for a sports betting website, I must show some class.

Listen, did the Edmonton Oilers answer their head coaching question? About as bad as you can answer, I guess.

However, did they answer their netminding, offensive depth, and defensive corps problems? No? Okay, so why would you ever consider betting on a team so shit at +1000? Because they have Connor McDavid? Not for long, little buddy, not for long...

 Stars (+1600 at Bet99)

The Dallas Stars show so much promise every year, and every year they let their fans down. And now, with no Cup to show for their hard work, they're likely about to ship out RFA Jason Robertson.

It feels like the championship window is closing — if not already slammed shut — and there are just better teams to bet on at this point of the year.

Key players who could be traded

• Dylan Larkin
• Jason Robertson
• Matthew Knies
• Mason McTavish
• Connor Hellebuyck
• Nico Hischier
• Darnell Nurse
• Morgan Rielly
• Vincent Trochek
• Jake DeBrusk
• Adin Hill

Outstanding key NHL UFAs and RFAs

UFAs

• Rasmus Andersson D
• Alex Ovechkin F
• Patrick Kane F
• Anthony Mantha F
• Viktor Arvidsson F
• Mats Zucccarello F
• John Carlson D
• Claude Giroux F
• Mason Marchment F
• Jacob Trouba

RFAs

• Jason Robertson F
• Connor Bedard F
• Cutter Gauthier F
• Leo Carlsson F
• Pavel Dorofeyev F
• Alexander Nikishin D
• Jordan Spence D
• Trevor Zegras F
• Yegor Chinakhov F

Key NHL offseason dates 2026-27

• June 26/27 - NHL Draft
• July 1 - Free agency begins
• July 20 - Salary arbitration hearings begin
• August 3 - Deadline for salary arb decisions to be rendered
• September 11 - Rookies report to training camp
• September 16/27 - Remaining players report to training camp

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

For a second year in a row, it was made clear in the playoffs that the Montreal Canadiens needed to get tougher. Not necessarily bigger, but tougher. When the puck drops in the postseason, the intensity goes right up, and it shows in how much more physical the play becomes. The Habs have a lot of skillful players, but they’re not stacked when it comes to players ready to land big, bone-crushing hits.

Josh Anderson does what he can, and while he’s very good at it, his age shows as the playoffs move forward. The gritty winger has never shied away from physical play, but his style has landed him on the injury list a few times, and as the Canadiens moved through the rounds, the wear and tear started to show.

Could The Canadiens Land A Big Bounce-Back Candidate?
Potential Canadiens Draft Target: Tomas Chrenko
Will Canadiens’ Former Goaltender Keep Walking In Weber’s Footsteps Or Go Further?

Zachary Bolduc has shown he also has some potential when it comes to laying down punishment, but at 6-foot and 187 pounds, he could use some bulk. A prime candidate to bolster the Canadiens’ physicality could be A.J. Greer, but he probably won’t come cheap when he hits the free agency market on July 1st.

Kent Hughes is likely keeping tabs on a few players in the league who could come in and give the Canadiens more grit. Still, he’s no doubt also aware that Florian Xhekaj now has two years of professional hockey experience under his belt and that it could be worth allowing him to make the jump with the big team next season.

At 6-foot-3 and 195 pounds, the winger isn’t as big as his brother Arber Xhekaj, but he does know how to use his big body to good use. In 64 games with the Laval Rocket this season, the winger registered 29 points, including 17 goals and spent 182 minutes in the penalty box. The younger Xhekaj also knows how to fight, and since Martin St-Louis appears reluctant to give much ice time to the older Xhekaj, the youngster could offer a good alternative.

If the Canadiens can’t improve their bottom six via trade or free agency, it will be worth giving Xheakj a try. Pascal Vincent, the former coach of the Rocket, recently said on The Sick Podcast that he is a big fan of his, which is a pretty good endorsement.

"I'm a big fan of Florian Xhekaj... I think this guy is going to be a good player in the NHL, and I think he's going to be a good playoff player" - Pascal Vincent#GoHabsGo#thesickpodcast@TonyMarinaropic.twitter.com/AgwySDztOB

— The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro (@thesickpodcasts) June 12, 2026

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The Detroit Red Wings are not giving up on William Wallinder just yet as the club on Thursday, re-signed the 23-year-old Swedish defenseman to a two-year, two-way contract, signaling that despite a slower than expected development timeline, Detroit still believes in what the towering blueliner can become. 

For a franchise that has shown a willingness to invest in its prospects, the deal is a logical next step for a player who is finally starting to show the kind of growth the organization has been waiting for.

Wallinder was never a sure thing offensively, but the expectations that came with being selected 32nd overall in the 2020 NHL Draft were significant regardless. At six-foot-four and 209 pounds, he possesses the kind of frame that organizations dream about on the blue line, and his game is built around using that size to his advantage. 

He is primarily a defensive defenseman with some offensive upside, the kind of player who can protect his own zone and make life difficult on opposing forwards when his game is clicking.

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

UPDATE: The #RedWings have signed defenseman William Wallinder to a two-year, two-way contract. pic.twitter.com/rm2K7Bn4TX

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) June 25, 2026

The development curve, however, has been gradual over 194 AHL games with the Grand Rapids Griffins across three seasons. Wallinder has posted seven goals and 47 assists for 54 points along with a plus-11 rating with his offensive growth slowly climbing, from 15 points in his first full season to 19 the following year before finally cracking 20 this past campaign. 

What stands out most about this past season is not the point total but the dramatic swing in his defensive numbers. After posting a combined minus-eight rating over his first two AHL seasons, Wallinder turned in a plus-21 this past year, a shift that speaks to real growth in how he reads and manages the game in his own end. 

Playing alongside experienced veterans on the Grand Rapids blue line, including Erik Gustafsson, appears to have accelerated that development in ways that the raw numbers alone do not fully capture.

The two-year, two-way structure of the deal gives Wallinder time to continue developing without the pressure of immediately cracking Detroit's NHL roster, while also keeping the door open if he takes another step forward and forces his way into the conversation.

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After trading Bowen Byram and Michael Kesselring already this off-season, the Buffalo Sabres should be looking to add at least one more defenseman this summer. While they brought in Louis Crevier from the Blackhawks in the Byram trade, Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn are also pending UFAs for Buffalo. 

Now, the Sabres are being linked to a Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman.

According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, the Sabres have had trade discussions with the Maple Leafs about Brandon Carlo. 

"Some quick hits: Sabres/Leafs discussed Carlo," Pagnotta posted on X. 

With the Sabres needing another right-shot defenseman, it makes sense that they have a defenseman like Carlo on their radar. When playing at his best, the veteran blueliner is a solid stay-at-home top-four defenseman. Because of this, he would have the potential to be a nice pickup for a Sabres club that needs blueline help. 

If the Sabres acquired Carlo, he could slot well on their second pairing with Owen Power. He would also offer them a clear option for their penalty kill because of his defense-first style of play. 

In 55 games this past season with the Maple Leafs, Carlo posted zero goals, seven assists, and a plus-4 rating. 

The Hoffmann Family had their first press conference as owners of the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday morning. 

David Hoffmann, Geoff Hoffmann, and Greg Hoffmann discussed a variety of topics, including their belief in Kyle Dubas and Dan Muse, the TV network situation, the ECHL affiliate situation, their goals for the Penguins, and so much more. 

They're just two days removed from getting unanimous approval from the NHL's Board of Governors to buy the Penguins from Fenway Sports Group. 

Here are three takeaways from their 20+ minute conversation with local reporters: 

1. They are all in on Kyle Dubas

While the Hoffmann Family loves hockey, they recognize that Kyle Dubas is one of the top executives in the NHL and want him to have the final say. They want to give Dubas the support he needs to make whatever moves necessary to improve the team.

"Kyle, we think, is a particularly talented executive in the league, and that was one of the things that attracted us about making the investment, especially at this point in time," Geoff Hoffmann said. "We fully support him in his vision for the organization, and we're prepared to give him the resources that he needs to be as successful as we can possibly be as an organization."

Dubas is going into his fourth season as the general manager and president of hockey operations and is now an alternate governor of the Penguins. The new owners love the work that he has done and want to see it continue. 

2. They are committed to Pittsburgh

Obviously, there's a very long and storied history with the Penguins in Pittsburgh, and the Hoffmann Family wants to see that continue under their watch. They told reporters that they are committed to the city and that the Penguins will be in Pittsburgh for a very long time. 

"It is a storied franchise in a lot of different ways," Geoff Hoffmann said. "There's certainly been some ups and downs, I think, on the business side of the organization, and I'm here to tell you that has come to an end. We are long-term thinkers. This is not an investment for us, as you think about a financial investment. This is a commitment to a city. It's a commitment to an organization. The Penguins are going to be in Pittsburgh and always going to be in Pittsburgh as long as the Hoffmanns are part of it, and the Hoffmanns plan to be a part of this for generations to come." 

"We are really well-positioned, not only to continue the trajectory that the organization is on currently, but to make the investments that are required to remain competitive and to create an incredibly special fan experience, which is something that we're focused on, too. We want this to be great for the community of Pittsburgh and for all of our fans."

This is an ownership group that's in it for the long haul and again comes across as a group of true hockey fans. They've built a lot of success with the ECHL's Florida Everblades and will now try to do it in the NHL. 

Yes, It's High Time For The Penguins To Trade One Of Their Best Wingers. But It's Not The One You Think It Should Be.The Pittsburgh Penguins have three valuable trade commodities and find themselves at a crossroads in terms of direction - and one player should be the first domino to fall.

3. The Penguins' ECHL affiliate is likely to change

This topic came up multiple times during the presser, and David Hoffmann confirmed toward the end that the family would "100%" like to see the Everblades become the Penguins' new ECHL affiliate. 

"100%," David Hoffmann said. "I think they would run me out of Naples if they're not. We already have people wearing Penguins jerseys at our games, so I think the high expectation levels, that's going to happen. We want to do that."

Assuming that goes through, it would end the Penguins' affiliation with the Wheeling Nailers after 29 years. It's the longest active agreement between an NHL and ECHL team. 

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It's easy to win an opening presser, but I thought the family said all the right things and came across as really genuine. Now it's on them to back up their words with actions.

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The Winnipeg Jets may be about to lose one of their own without receiving anything in return with Ville Heinola, the Finnish defenseman selected by Winnipeg in the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft, is entering the offseason as a Group-6 unrestricted free agent. 

This means he is free to sign with any team in the league when the market opens next Wednesday. For an organization that has watched Heinola develop patiently over seven professional seasons, the prospect of losing him without compensation is a situation the front office will be eager to avoid.

Group-6 free agency is among the lesser known classifications in the NHL's collective bargaining agreement, but Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman broke down all six groups on his 32 podcast this week for those unfamiliar with how Heinola arrived at this crossroads. 

The six groups cover players finishing entry-level contracts, traditional restricted free agents like Jason Robertson and Connor Bedard, the widely understood unrestricted free agents, players who have competed overseas and were never drafted or signed in North America like Ottawa Senators defenseman Artem Zub, a fifth category involving players with ten or more professional seasons or those meeting a specific salary threshold, which Sportsnet's Kyle Bukauskas noted is quite rare, and finally the sixth group, which is where Heinola lands.

 A Group-6 unrestricted free agent is defined as a player who is 25 years of age or older as of June 30th of the expiring contract year, has played fewer than 80 career NHL games, and has completed three or more professional seasons.

The 25-year-old appeared in just five games with the Jets this past season, recording no points at the NHL level, while spending the bulk of his year with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL, where he posted three goals and 18 assists for 21 points in 44 games. Those numbers add to an already impressive AHL resume. 

Over seven seasons with the Moose, Heinola has accumulated 124 points in 198 games, establishing himself as one of the more productive defensemen in franchise history at that level. At the NHL level, the production has been harder to come by with 12 points in 58 career games across six seasons, largely due to limited opportunity rather than a lack of ability.

That lack of opportunity may ultimately be what drives Heinola out of Winnipeg. As a Group-6 unrestricted free agent, he holds all the leverage and will have no shortage of suitors among teams willing to give him the consistent top-league deployment that has eluded him in Manitoba. For a player of his caliber and age, the desire to find a situation where he can finally stick in an NHL lineup full time is entirely understandable.

The Jets did bring Heinola up towards the end of this past season, a move that could be read as a final audition or a genuine attempt to reintegrate him into the big league club ahead of a potential re-signing. Whether that late-season callup translates into a new deal remains to be seen, but Winnipeg will need to move quickly. The clock runs out on Wednesday, and if the Jets cannot offer Heinola what he is looking for in terms of both contract and opportunity, another organization almost certainly will.

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The NHL has been buckwild ever since the Brady Tkachuk trade to Florida dropped over the weekend. Seemingly everyone in the league is trying to get their ducks in a row ahead of the draft, not only projecting what they need right now — but reading the writing on the wall for where they will be in a few year’s time.

Inthe past few days we’ve seen the Buffalo Sabres make a flurry of moves, the Captials landing Jordan Kyrou, and the Senators move their No. 9 pick to bolster their lines, but some of the biggest rumors are still floating around with the draft on the horizon. Let’s dive into the whispers going on around hockey and determine which make sense, and which just don’t hold any water.

NOT BUYING IT: Connor Bedard trade rumors

The Blackhawks are biting their nails trying to get this Connor Bedard extension done before he’s poised to become a restricted free agent in July, but at no point am I buying the idea that Chicago might trade him — no matter how ugly the negotiations get.

Sure, Bedard notoriously hates losing and wants to see the Blackhawks improve, but there’s just not a landing spot that makes sense on a contender right now. He could theoretically go to a mid-tier playoff team like Utah or Buffalo, but those teams neither have the assets, nor the desire to sink all their energy into taking on a player who is still developing his NHL game. That means the teams most likely to make a deal, like the Maple Leafs, Canucks, or Red Wings, more or less put Bedard in the exact spot he’s in right now, trying to win.

The best move for Chicago now is to get the deal done, and I think they will — even if it means breaking the bank for a player his age. This is a big market, a burgeoning star, and a team that unquestionably has a lot of work to do, but seems willing to make some deals to improve now (see Bowen Byram) while also having a deep pipeline of players down the road.

BUYING IT: Hurricanes shopping Alexander Nikishin

The Stanley Cup Champions have the deepest prospect pool of any elite team in the NHL, and they know it. It was assumed that the Canes would look to re-up Nikishin long term, but there have been some murmurs that his agents are looking for a contract much larger than Carolina is comfortable with after one year in the league.

Ultimately, we have a case where Nikishin is a 3rd line defenseman inside the Hurricanes, but would be a top four guy on most other teams. That, paired with his youth mean there will be plenty of suitors out there. The Canes can run their “next man up” philosophy from inside the system without losing that much, largely because Ke’Andre Miller was a breakout star for them last year.

Nikishin will be traded ahead of the NHL Draft, and I think it’s going to be part of a big time deal.

NOT BUYING IT: Connor Hellebuyck to the Panthers

There seems to be a fundamental disconnect between what Florida would like to do what they can do, and what they’re willing to do. There is absolutely no scenario that involves the Panthers getting Connor Hellebuyck without giving up established talent on their roster right now. None, zero, zilch.

Florida gave up everything they had left to get Brady Tkachuk in terms of not messing with the roster, meaning the only player who could really spur a package for Hellebuyck is Anton Lundell, whom the Panthers have said is a non-starter (which is correct). Lundell is one of their few young, future pieces who will be with the team in six or seven years time, and without a prospect pool it’s too rich going all in on a goaltender upgrade.

There’s also an element to this where people are overvaluing Hellebuyck too much right now. He’s coming off a down year, is signed to a massive extension, and really isn’t worth what’s left on the deal unless you think the 2025-26 season was an abberation and not the start of regression. Florida is smarter than going all-in here.

BUYING IT: The Devils making a spash with No. 12

The New Jersey Devils are desperate to get back into playoff contention and be in win-now mode while Jack Hughes is still in his prime, and there’s a lot of chatter about their $13M in cap space paired with the No. 12 overall pick.

This feels like the prime opportunity to make some noise in the trade market, and I can’t help but think that Jason Robertson of the Stars makes a ton of sense in a sign-and-trade scenario. Dallas would like to retain their scoring wing, but are locked in cap hell right now that they can’t escape without gutting their core. This is the payment for the Mikko Rantanen deal, and they will likely lose Robertson as a result.

New Jersey would be a great landing spot for scoring, and the No. 12 pick would give the Stars a prospect to build up for the future. If not Robertson, then look for someone like Matthew Knies of Toronto who would also make sense here.

If Pittsburgh Penguins' fans are hoping for GM and POHO Kyle Dubas to be active leading up to the 2026 NHL Draft on Friday and Saturday, it appears the first domino may have fallen.

Well, even if the domino isn't quite as big as some were hoping for. 

On Thursday, the Penguins acquired the rights to restricted free agent forward Hendrix Lapierre from the Washington Capitals in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick. Lapierre, 24, was previously on a one-year, $850,000 contract with the Capitals last season, and he spent parts of four NHL seasons with Washington.

Selected 22nd overall in the 2020 NHL Draft by the Capitals, Lapierre has yet to fully find his footing at the NHL level. In those four NHL seasons with Washington, he has recorded 13 goals and 47 points in 158 games. 

The 6-foot, 195-pound center really put himself on the map with an impressive showing at the 2020 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he amassed three goals and 11 points in just five games. He has puck skills, scrappiness, and the creativity to open some eyes, but he hasn't quite been able to put it all together at the NHL level.

The Penguins can now extend a qualifying offer to Lapierre, which must be done by Jun. 30 - as is the case with their other restricted free agents in Egor Chinakhov, Ville Koivunen, Arturs Silovs, Alexander Alexeyev, and Joel Blomqvist.

Penguins Named Best Landing Spot For Hurricanes UFA GoalieCould the Penguins look to bring in Frederik Andersen?

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The Pittsburgh Penguins are kicking off their summer moves by apparently acquiring center Hendrix Lapierre from Washington. Pittsburgh gives up a third round pick in 2027 and a fifth in 2028 to bring Lapierre on board.

The Penguins have acquired forward Hendrix Lapierre from the Washington Capitals in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick.

Details: https://t.co/115i2b4QGfpic.twitter.com/O4skjkwYuH

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) June 25, 2026

Lapierre is a player who has had his ups and downs over four pro seasons with the Capitals, as seen in his hockeydb profile:

After an encouraging 2023-24, where the scored 22 points in 51 games and was one of the best players on AHL Hershey’s Calder Cup winning team that spring, Lapierre was positioned to be Washington’s third line center. It didn’t go well, and eventually the Caps traded with the Penguins to get Lars Eller to help add depth and improve the spot where Lapierre was struggling.

Lapierre failed to make progress in 2025-26, appearing in 74 games in a very limited role that only saw him average 9:54 per game (and just 8:42 at even strength), losing way to players like Justin Sourdif and ending up bumping to a wing position. Lapierre enters the summer as a restricted free agent, but given the lack of personal success should be getting signed to a very reasonable short-term contract as he looks to establish himself.

Despite the lack of upward momentum in his career, Lapierre represents a player that GM Kyle Dubas has highlighted that the Penguins want: in their mid 20’s, with NHL experience and ability that might need a new opportunity to unlock more of their game. The Pens have pulled this out before, most successfully with Egor Chinakhov, Elmer Soderblom and Connor Dewar as well as others like Phil Tomasino, Ilya Solovyov and Emil Bemstrom among other cases, to varying degrees of success.

Lapierre has some upside, even though the ugly 2024-25 season stands a warning for a player who can become mired in a deep slump.

Hendrix Lapierre, acquired by PIT, is a young-ish fourth-line centre. pic.twitter.com/k7r2voKjX6

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 25, 2026

Lapierre could add to the team’s center depth or be shifted to the wing at this point. He almost certainly doesn’t belong in the same outlook for a Chinakhov-esque type of huge glow-up but could have the opportunity to become a lineup mainstay in Pittsburgh. The Pens already have a dedicated fourth line center in Blake Lizotte, whereas Lapierre has more of a skilled profile of a player who has the ability to create some offense via his playmaking.

An unmentioned item for this acquisition might be telling in setting the stage for the future. Pittsburgh has Justin Brazeau and Tommy Novak entering the final seasons of their contracts in 2026-27. Lapierre’s addition crowds the amount of lower line forwards (where Lapierre joins an area that Soderblom, Dewar, Lizotte occupy and hopefuls like Rutger McGroaty and Avery Hayes potentially join the likes of Brazeau and Novak) that starts to show some overfill for players to spots available.

The first move of the summer certainly won’t be the end of shuffling players around, the Pens kick their offseason off by picking up a player very much in their preferred wheelhouse as far as what they want to bring into the club for next season.

The future of Connor Zary with the Calgary Flames appears increasingly uncertain.

On Wednesday, NHL insider Darren Dreger reported that Calgary is actively exploring the trade market for the 24-year-old forward.

“The Flames are trying to move Connor Zary. The 24-year-old forward has another year left on his contract at $3.775 million. Sounds like Calgary is asking for a second-round pick in return,” Dreger tweeted.

The report added fuel to speculation that has quietly lingered for months. There have been indications that Calgary was willing to discuss Zary well before the end of the 2025-26 season, and had another club met their asking price, a deal may have materialized much sooner.

For many teams, however, a second-round pick represents a significant investment for a player whose development has stalled after showing considerable promise early in his NHL career.

How Did Things Reach This Point?

Not long ago, Zary looked like an important part of Calgary’s long-term plans.

Selected 24th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, the former first-round pick appeared to be taking meaningful steps toward becoming a top-six contributor. His offensive instincts, playmaking ability, and versatility gave the Flames reason to believe they had found a young forward capable of growing alongside the organization’s emerging core.

Then came the setbacks.

A series of knee injuries interrupted what had been a promising stretch in his development, and the momentum he had built proved difficult to regain. Last season was particularly challenging. Zary managed just two points through his first 20 games and struggled to establish any consistency throughout the year.

By season’s end, he had recorded 13 goals and 25 points in 74 games, but the numbers only tell part of the story. His role fluctuated regularly, he often found himself playing limited minutes, and there were stretches where was mired on the fourth line or he watched from the press box. As the season progressed, it became increasingly clear that he had fallen down Ryan Huska and the Flames’ coaching staff’s depth chart.

Whether due to performance, confidence, or opportunity, the fit between player and organization no longer appears as natural as it once did.

During the season, Zary spoke to the media about the importance of allowing skilled young players room to make mistakes and grow.

“When you have guys, especially younger guys with talent and skill, you don’t want to hold them back. You don’t want to put them on a leash.”

While he was discussing rookie defenceman Zayne Parekh at the time, the comments raise an interesting question: could Zary have been feeling the same way about how his ice time and opportunity were being handled?

Potential Destinations for Connor Zary

If Calgary succeeds in moving Zary, several organizations stand out as logical fits.

San Jose Sharks

The Sharks remain firmly focused on building around a young core and could afford to take a chance on a player whose value has dipped.

With roster spots available and development opportunities plentiful, San Jose would offer Zary a chance to rediscover his offensive confidence without the immediate pressure of contending expectations. The Sharks continue searching for long-term forward depth, making Zary a potentially intriguing addition.

Pittsburgh Penguins 

Pittsburgh has spent the last several seasons trying to balance competing in the present while preparing for the future. The Penguins’ forward group continues to age, and the organization lacks many established NHL contributors in Zary’s age range. Acquiring a 24-year-old former first-round pick would align with their goal of getting younger without fully committing to a rebuild.

A middle-six role alongside experienced veterans such as Sidney Crosby could provide the type of environment that helps Zary regain his footing.

Buffalo Sabres

Buffalo remains one of the league’s most intriguing teams. The talent is there, but consistency has been difficult to find.

Zary’s ability to play both centre and wing would give the Sabres additional flexibility, and his age aligns well with the rest of Buffalo’s young core. If the acquisition cost remains a second-round pick, the Sabres could view the move as a worthwhile gamble on untapped upside.

Seattle Kraken

The Kraken continue searching for more offensive punch throughout their lineup.

Seattle has shown a willingness to target players with upside who may benefit from a larger role, and Zary fits that profile. With cap flexibility and a need for additional skill in their middle six, the Kraken could present an ideal landing spot for a player looking to reset his career trajectory.

Chicago Blackhawks

Chicago’s rebuild is entering an important phase.

The Blackhawks are gradually surrounding their young stars with players who can grow alongside them, and Zary remains young enough to fit that timeline. The organization possesses the cap space and draft capital necessary to make a move, and the low-risk nature of the acquisition could make it an attractive option.

For a rebuilding team, acquiring a player who still has room to develop often makes more sense than spending significant assets on established veterans.

A Fresh Start May Be Best for Everyone

Watching a first-round pick fall short of expectations is never easy for a fan base, especially when flashes of potential suggest there is still more to offer.

Yet player development is rarely a straight line. Circumstances change, opportunities disappear, and sometimes a different environment becomes necessary.

For Calgary, moving Zary could create additional roster flexibility as the organization continues integrating its next wave of prospects. For Zary, a trade could provide something equally valuable: a clean slate and a renewed opportunity to prove he can still become the player many projected him to be.

At this stage, the possibility of a fresh start may be exactly what both sides need.

The 2025-26 NHL season may have just ended, but he cycle of work never ends as the league approaches the draft and development camps.

The Carolina Hurricanes have announced the dates for their development camp, which will begin immediately following the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.

The camp is an opportunity for prospects to familiarize themselves with the organization, resources available to them, as well as on and off-ice educational sessions.

Currently, the 2026 roster includes:

• Charlie Cerrato (2nd - 2025)
• Kurban Limatov (3rd - 2025)
• Viggo Nordlund (6th - 2025)
• Filip Ekberg (7th - 2025)
• Timur Kol (6th - 2024)
• Roman Shokhrin (6th - 2024)

Players selected by the Hurricanes in the 2026 NHL Draft, which takes place on June 26-27, will also be invited to attend. The full 2026 Prospects Development Camp roster will be released prior to the camp starting.

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Development Camp Schedule

Sunday, June 28th

Player arrival (No media availability)

Monday, June 29th

10:00 a.m. - Skills sessions
3:00 p.m. - Skills Sessions

Tuesday, June 30th

9:00 a.m. - Fitness testing
1:00 p.m. - On-ice testing

Wednesday, July 1

10 a.m. - Skills Sessions

Thursday, July 2

Player Departure (No media availability)

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The two-day NHL draft will be held in Buffalo, New York, starting with the first round on Friday night. The Toronto Maple Leafs have the No. 1 pick after winning the draft lottery. The San Jose Sharks are scheduled to pick second for the second straight year, followed by Vancouver, Buffalo and the New York Rangers. Six of the top prospects:

Gavin McKenna, right wing, Penn State/NCAA

Hometown: Whitehorse, Yukon.

Measurables: 5-foot-11, 170 pounds. Turned 18 in December.

Expected to be selected: No. 1 by the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Accomplishments/background: Pegged as his age-group’s top prospect two years ago, McKenna has matched expectations. That included last year, in jumping from the Western Hockey League to face older and more physical NCAA competition. Following an inconsistent start, McKenna scored 32 of his 51 points in his final 17 games, and finished tied for fourth in the nation in scoring. He was the Big Ten’s freshman of the year, a two-time national rookie of the month and Hobey Baker Award finalist. At Medicine Hat, McKenna scored 79 goals and 244 points in 133 career games. In 2025, he became the third-youngest player to earn CHL David Branch Player of the Year honors behind only Sidney Crosby and John Tavares. McKenna has an opportunity to become just the sixth Yukon-born player drafted, and the highest pick after Buffalo chose Dylan Cozens seventh in 2019. He’s a distant cousin by marriage with Connor Bedard, who was selected No. 1 by Chicago in 2023.

NHL Central Scouting report: “Shows exceptional poise and maturity in his game, demonstrating a high hockey IQ that allows him to dictate play. ... Projects as a player with pro-level pace and vision, someone who can drive a line and elevate those around him.”

Ivar Stenberg, left wing, Frolunda/Swedish Elite League

Hometown: Gothenburg, Sweden.

Measurables: 5-foot-11, 183 pounds. Turned 18 in September.

Expected to be selected: Has a chance to go No. 1, and won’t fall past No. 4

Accomplishments/background: Led all teenagers in Sweden’s top league with 11 goals and 33 points in 43 games. His 33 points were the fifth-most by a player 18 or younger in a group that includes twins Daniel and Henrik Sedin. In January, he was part of Sweden’s gold medal-winning team at the world junior championships; his 10 points (four goals, six assists) tied for fifth-most in tournament history. His brother, Otto Stenberg, was selected 25th overall by St. Louis in the 2023 draft.

NHL Central Scouting report: “His blend of speed, first-step quickness and balance makes him a dangerous, dynamic skater who can both create and finish plays. ... Though still physically developing, his compete level and confidence make him effective in board battles and transition play.”

Chase Reid, defense, Sault Ste. Marie/OHL

Hometown: Pontiac, Michigan.

Measurables: 6-foot 2, 195 pounds. Turned 18 in December.

Expected to be selected: A top-5 selection, and also mentioned as potential No. 1 candidate.

Accomplishments/background: Finished second among OHL blue liners in averaging 1.07 points per game with 18 goals and 30 assists in 45 outings. He missed 17 games with in injury before returning for the playoffs. Has used being cut by the USHL's Waterloo Black Hawks as motivation, and leading to decision to play in OHL. Began career as a forward before switching to defense while playing for Detroit Honeybaked Triple-A program.

NHL Central Scouting report: “A take-charge type of defenseman that dictates the game. ... Not afraid to mix it up and play physical. ... The complete package.”

Caleb Malhotra, center, Brantford/OHL

Hometown: Victoria, British Columbia.

Measurables: 6-foot-2, 182 pounds. Turned 18 on June 2.

Expected to be selected: Big surprise if he goes past Vancouver at No. 3, with the Canucks coached by his father, former NHL player Manny Malhotra.

Accomplishments/background: Regarded as the top center in the draft class and could go No. 1. Finished second among OHL rookies with 84 points (29 goals, 55 assists) in 67 games. He also led all rookies in playoff scoring with 26 points in 15 games, including a five-point outing. His father was a 16-year NHL veteran, and was coaching Vancouver’s AHL affiliate before being hired last month to take over as Canucks coach. Malhotra’s mother, Joann, is the sister of two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash.

NHL Central Scouting report: “The type of player you want on the ice in any situation and plays the pro-style game with high-end skills, work habits and compete.”

Alberts Smits, defense, Munchen/German Elite League

Hometown: Valmiera, Latvia.

Measurables: 6-foot-3, 205 pounds. Turned 18 in December.

Expected to be selected: Anywhere between No. 4 (Buffalo) and No. 8 (Winnipeg).

Accomplishments/background: Played in two pro leagues and represented Latvia at the Milan Cortina Games. Had 13 points in 17 games for Jukurit in Finland, and closed season in Munchen, where he had two goals and six points in 10 playoff outings. He had two assists in four games at the Olympics. Has chance to be highest-picked Latvian-born player after Buffalo selected Zemgus Girgensons 14th in 2012. Smits left his homeland to play in Finland at 13.

NHL Central Scouting report: “Offensively, Smits is dangerous from the blue line, with a heavy, accurate one-timer and the instincts to quarterback the power play. His calmness under pressure and maturity on the puck make him look like a seasoned pro rather than a teenager.”

Keaton Verhoeff, defense, North Dakota/NCAA

Hometown: Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.

Measurables: 6-foot-3, 208 pounds. Turned 18 on June 19.

Expected to be selected: Could go as high as No. 4 to Buffalo, and could be the first blue-liner chosen.

Accomplishments/background: Led draft-eligible NCAA defensemen with 20 points (six goals, 14 assists). Made the jump from WHL's Victoria, where the previous season he led the league among rookie defensemen with 21 goals in 63 games. Began as a goalie before switching to defense at 11.

NHL Central Scouting report: “Combination of size and skill has him in the conversation for the top prospect. Can impact the game from his position like few in this draft class. Very complete player.”

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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/NHL

The Carolina Hurricanes have announced their preseason schedule for the 2026-27 season.

With the NHL moving to an 84-game regular season schedule starting next season, teams will only be required to play four preseason games.

For the last few years, the Hurricanes have played against the same three teams for their preseason slate — the Florida Panther, Nashville Predators and the Tampa Bay Lightning — however, this year they'll only be facing the Panthers and Predators.

In addition, the Hurricanes will be playing one of their preseason games at the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro, the home of the Canes' ECHL affiliate Greensboro Gargoyles and where the team played in its first two seasons.

Preseason Schedule

• Sunday, Sept. 20: @ Florida Panthers (7 p.m. @ Amerant Bank Arena)
• Tuesday, Sept. 22: vs. Florida Panthers (7 p.m. @ Lenovo Center)
• Thursday, Sept. 24: vs. Nashville Predators (7 p.m. @ First Horizon Coliseum)
• Saturday, Sept. 26: @ Nashville Predators (3 p.m. @ Bridgestone Arena)

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The Buffalo Sabres busy week leading up to the NHL Draft continued on Wednesday, as mere hours after GM Jarmo Kekalainen orchestrated a sign-and-trade of winger Alex Tuch to the Washington Capitals, the club locked up restricted free agent forward Zach Benson to a seven-year, $52.5 million contract extension. 

The 21-year-old winger Benson posted a career-high 43 points (13 goals, 30 assists) in 65 games in his third NHL season and made his mark in the Sabres first playoff appearance in 15 years, scoring nine points (5 goals, 4 assists) in 13 games. 

“I see him as a true core piece that fills all the boxes,” Kekäläinen said last month. “(Zach has) got skill, he’s got hockey sense, he’s got instincts, he’s relentless, he’s a competitor. What a great playoff he had and, again, I’m so excited about the level that he can get to.”

The extension takes some of the sting off of the trades of Tuch and defenseman Bowen Byram earlier in the week. The 30-year-old winger was headed to free agency on July 1, even after the Sabres reportedly had increased their offer on a long-term deal. Kekalainen was not prepared to go the maximum eight years and in excess of $10 million per season on the veteran winger who scored 33 goals last season, as the Capitals did on an eight-year, $84 million deal. 

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The trade with Chicago is being lauded as an excellent return for the Sabres, but the departures of Byram and Tuch total 44 goals, and while Kekalainen hopes that the growth of youngsters Konsta Helenius, Jiri Kulich, and Noah Ostlund will help fill the gap, the Sabres GM is not ruling out exchanging some draft capital to help bolster the lineup next season. 

“I've told all the teams that have inquired about the #4 pick, that we're just going to listen for now, take notes, and see what they think is the value of #4. We value that very highly ourselves. We know there's a great prospect available there, that's going to be two, three years away, or maybe even more, before they can make an impact on our team.” Kekalainen said. “We want to keep getting better as a team. We had an exciting year, but still disappointing at the end, but we'll gather that information around the league and see what the values, and if we don't think it's as much as making the pick, then we'll make the pick.”

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