Lemieux, a longtime agitator and big-game performer, was a player agent who represented several of today’s biggest stars, including Devils forward Timo Meier and Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen.
Retired Colorado Avalanche player Claude Lemieux waves to fans as he is honored for his years on the ice before the Avalanche host the New Jersey Devils. AP Photo/David Zalubowski
“Rest in peace Pepi,” Meier wrote on his Instagram story, referencing the nickname Lemieux received as a rookie with the Montreal Canadiens in 1983, short for “Pepe Le Pew,” the amorous cartoon skunk.
“Gone too soon.”
The news of Lemieux’s death — he was reportedly found in a warehouse of his family’s furniture store in Florida by one of his sons — came just three days after he was honored by the Canadiens as a torchbearer ahead of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Hurricanes.
Timo Meier #28 of the New Jersey Devils stretches in warm ups before a game. NHLI via Getty Images
With Andersen set to tend goal for the Hurricanes that night, Lemieux reached out to the goalie to let him know he was tapped to help fire up the opposing team’s home crowd at the Bell Center.
“He’s like family,” Andersen told the North State Journal, noting it was a big deal for the entire Lemieux family for its patriarch to be honored.
Andersen’s pursuit of the Stanley Cup continues with a heavy heart, as does Meier’s run at the IIHF World Championships with Switzerland.
Timo Meier posted about his agent Claude Lemieux’s death on Thursday night.
Lemieux, a four-time Stanley Cup winner, also counted Red Wings defenseman Moritz Seider and Bruins blueliner Hampus Lindholm among his clients as the President Hockey North America for 4Sports Hockey, with 17 active contracts totaling nearly $355 million in value, per PuckPedia.
“Claude was so much more to us than just a member of the 4sports family,” the agency wrote in an Instagram post. “He was a truly special person, a trusted friend, an inspiring leader, an exceptional and very successful agent, and someone who touched all of our lives with his kindness, loyalty, strength, and generosity. His presence shaped not only our company, but also the people around him in so many meaningful ways.
“We all deeply respected, appreciated, and loved him. The memories, the laughter, the friendship, and the inspiration he gave us will remain with us forever.”
As the Maple Leafs continue their search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Craig Berube, conflicting reports have surfaced regarding former Edmonton Oilers bench boss Jay Woodcroft.
According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Leafs were set to interview the 49-year-old Toronto native this week. Woodcroft, who spent the past season as an assistant with the Anaheim Ducks after being let go by the Oilers early in 2023-24, has drawn attention following a strong track record in Edmonton, including a trip to the 2022 Western Conference Final and elite power-play performance. Seravalli’s sources positioned him as one of the front-runners for the job, especially given his local roots and recent interview with the Los Angeles Kings.
But on the latest episode of 32 Thoughts, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman pushed back firmly on that narrative.
“I understand there were some reports this week that he’s going to interview in Toronto. I don’t believe that’s the case,” Friedman said. “I do not believe Toronto has asked permission to talk to him.”
Friedman added that it remains possible the Maple Leafs never engage with Woodcroft at all.
This discrepancy highlights the fluid nature of the Leafs’ coaching search under new general manager John Chayka. With reports indicating Toronto has spoken to or plans to speak with around 20 candidates, the process appears thorough but opaque, leading to the kind of crossed wires that often occur in high-stakes NHL hiring cycles.
#Leafs coaching search update, per sources: - #FlyTogether Jay Woodcroft scheduled to interview this week. Interviewed with #LAKings last week. Handicapped as “one of the front runners” for the Toronto job. Either spot, solid bet to be an NHL HC again next season. - Wide swath of…
For now, it seems safe to scratch Woodcroft’s name from the top of the list. That elevates the spotlight even further on University of Denver head coach David Carle, who remains a strong favourite according to multiple reports. The two sides have had dialogue, though Friedman wondered if any in-person meetings have taken place yet.
Carle’s success at the NCAA level, developing talent and implementing structured, possession-oriented systems, aligns with what many believe the Leafs need to complement their star-studded core of Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and Matthew Knies. His potential hiring would represent a fresh voice untainted by past NHL baggage — a common theme in Toronto’s recent coaching hires.
Really it seems like the ball is in Carle’s court if he wants to leave the NCAA ranks, having previously turned down the Chicago Blackhawks for an NHL head coaching spot.
RALEIGH, N.C. — Jordan Staal looks at the Carolina Hurricanes’ on-their-game play as being part of a machine.
One that keeps rolling through its process, over and over, in smothering scoring chances and keeping the pressure on an opponent.
It has them within a win of reaching their first Stanley Cup Final in two decades entering Game 5 at home against the Montreal Canadiens in the Eastern Conference Final.
“Right now, when you get into these grooves, it’s just kind of the machine,” the captain told reporters in Montreal. “You just kind of want to keep it running, keep doing what you’re doing.
“I don’t think the guys will waver too far from the next shift, the next play, the hyper-focus that we’re on.”
The Eastern Conference’s top seed started this series with a jarringly horrid start after going 11 days between playoff rounds — the longest postseason layoff in more than a century — and promptly allowing four goals in the first 11-plus minutes of a 6-2 loss.
Ever since, though, the Hurricanes have gotten more and more to their preferred style that helped them sweep through Ottawa and Philadelphia in the first two playoff rounds. And that has helped them grab control of the series from the on-the-rise Canadiens who arrived at this round earlier than some expected.
Carolina won a pair of 3-2 overtime games, first at home and then on the road, then dominated from the puck drop of 4-0 road romp that pushed the Hurricanes to a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
The Hurricanes are getting the puck into the offensive zone, using the aggressive forecheck to keep it there and pressure the Canadiens while giving talented goaltender Jakub Dobes a lot of work. The Game 4 win offered a withering case study, with Carolina scoring three goals in a nearly three-minute span of the first period then shutting off everything as the Canadiens tried to regroup.
It wasn’t perfect. Notably there was a nearly two-minute 5-on-3 opportunity in which the Hurricanes didn’t put a shot on Dobes with a chance to knock out the Canadiens midway through the second period.
Not that their coach was dwelling on it.
“I’m not pointing at any negative on this game, no chance,” Rod Brind’Amour said.
Now the pressure is fully on the Canadiens, who battled through two long series that included Game 7 road wins at Tampa Bay and Buffalo while the Hurricanes started 8-0 in the postseason.
Montreal hadn’t lost consecutive games since mid-March and hadn’t lost three straight games since a five-game skid in November.
“Obviously everybody knows where we’re at, we do,” forward Cole Caufield said after the team arrived in North Carolina.
The Canadiens pounced on the slow-starting Hurricanes in Game 1 by repeatedly getting clean breakouts and breakaways with skaters hitting full speed as they blew unchecked through the neutral zone.
But as this series has worn on, the Canadiens have looked a half-step — sometimes more — behind.
Montreal defenseman Alexandre Carrier said the focus is down to small details such as winning more 1-on-1 battles, and then building from there to hopefully stop the Hurricanes’ push.
“It’s a big opportunity,” Carrier said. “We’re not dead yet. So it’s important to really be excited for tomorrow and confident. And I’m excited to see what we can do.”
The Hurricanes have more than double the shots on goal (108-43) in the past three games. And while some of that is due to a style that naturally leans into shot volume, the Hurricanes have steadily tightened their defensive grip on a skilled Canadiens team.
The Hurricanes took a 19-3 edge in shots on goal in the third period, keeping the Canadiens pinned in their defensive zone while finishing with a total of 18 shots. That marked the second time in three games that Carolina had more shots on goal in a period than Montreal had for the game, the other in the first period of Game 3 (16-13).
Carolina had a 42-15 edge in high-danger chances for Games 2, 3 and 4, according to Natural Stat Trick.
“We talk about all the time defending as a five-man unit,” Carolina defenseman Jaccob Slavin said. “And our forwards are doing a great job of helping out with that, and allowing us to be tight-gapped, allowing us to be aggressive, allowing us to play the way we have to play.”
LAS VEGAS — Former Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy called it “upsetting” that he can’t interview with other clubs after Vegas management declined reported requests by Edmonton and Los Angeles.
“There were two teams that asked,” Cassidy said on the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast. “It’s public knowledge now, and I would like to talk to them. I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach.”
The Golden Knights fired Cassidy with eight games left in the regular season and Vegas struggling to hold on to a playoff spot. John Tortorella replaced Cassidy, won the Pacific Division and then defeated Utah, Anaheim and Colorado in the NHL playoffs to reach the Stanley Cup Final.
Vegas opens at Carolina or Montreal on Tuesday or June 4.
Cassidy, who led the Golden Knights to the 2023 Stanley Cup and is the organization’s longest-tenured coach, said contracts come with a standard clause that prohibits clubs from allowing even fired coaches to interview elsewhere without permission. He said his deal goes through next season.
“Probably because they don’t want a coach in the middle of the year to re-sign on Feb. 1 and go work up the street on Feb. 3 because they like a better situation,” Cassidy said of the clause.
The NHL Coaches Association issued a statement May 19 criticizing the Golden Knights for prohibiting Cassidy’s ability to interview elsewhere.
“It would be unprecedented at the head coaching level should multiple teams be denied permission to speak with Coach Cassidy,” the statement read. “The situation is still unfolding, but our priority is to protect the interests of our members in this type of circumstance.”
Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon defended the team’s stance in a news conference before the Western Conference Final against the Avalanche.
“We’ve been consistent that our focus currently is on the Stanley Cup playoffs, and the teams have respected that,” McCrimmon said at the time. “I’ve spoken with Bruce. He understands this as well.”
OTTAWA, CANADA - APRIL 25: K'andre Miller #19 of the Carolina Hurricanes sits in the locker room ahead of Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on April 25, 2026 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Josh Lavallee/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images
The Carolina Hurricanes return home on Friday night with a chance to wrap up the Eastern Conference Finals against the Montreal Canadiens. They currently sit with a 3-1 advantage after their dominating, 4-0 victory over the Habs on Wednesday night.
The Canes have accumulated an amazing 11-1 record this postseason, which puts them in rare company. Only a handful of teams have accomplished this in NHL history. While earning this record, they have kept their opponents “shots on goal” stat to startling lows.
After allowing a league low 23.9 shots per game during the regular season, they have bested that and are now allowing just 22.2 shots per game, lowest in the playoffs.
The Canadiens are especially finding it difficult to find shots, as evidenced by their fans shouting “shoot the puck” in the third period of their latest loss. They had yet to register a shot on goal in that period until there were just three minutes left.
After the Hurricanes dropped game one of the series, which can reasonably be blamed on rust following a long 11 day lay off, they have played their game and have pretty much dominated the ice since. The team has out-scored the Habs 10-4, outshot them 108-43 and outhit them 113-77. All of these factors have taken a toll on their opponents.
Jordan Staal called his team “a machine” and indeed they are. Perhaps I should change the name of the blog to “Carolina Machine Never Breaks” although that might make some people upset.
This has been a total team effort, although there are a couple of players really performing well. Of course Frederik Andersen would have to be at or near the top of the list. He has the best stats of any goalie in the postseason with an 11-1 record, a GAA of 1.44, and save percentage of .928. He also has three shutouts for his trouble.
Next up would be defenseman K’Andre Miller who is probably playing better than the front office could even dream of when they acquired him.
He leads the defense with 8 points, (tied for 4rth on the team) and leads the entire team with a +12 rating. He also leads the defense with 26 hits, good for 7th on the team and has 9 takeaways which is a team high. Oh yes, he also leads the team in TOI averaging just over 24 minutes a game.
After the win on Wednesday night on the TNT telecast, Wayne Gretzky said that Miller was playing as well as any defenseman he had seen in the playoffs. High praise indeed.
By the way, the photo above is classic Miller. Before every game he puts on his hoodie and is in deep thought. One can assume he is visualizing the game ahead of time.
Here is another shot:
If the Hurricanes win tonight, the Stanley Cup Finals will start on Tuesday, June 2nd. If not, then they will start on June 4rth.
Will Carolina be able to close this one out and improve their postseason record to 12-1? It won’t be easy, this Montreal club has been dangerous with their backs against the wall.
Game time 8 P.M. Eastern
TV: TNT and TruTV will have the action in the US with Kenny Albert handling play-by-play, Eddie Olczyk doing color from up top, Brian Boucher between the benches, and Jackie Redmond handling off-ice interviews. Also note that the NHL on TNT Face-Off pre-show will not only be an hour long, beginning at 7 PM Eastern, but that they will be on-site in Raleigh in the Buffalo Brothers Section behind section 113. Liam McHugh hosts while Wayne Gretzky, Henrik Lundqvist, Anson Carter, and Paul Bissonnette will be at the desk.
Radio: You can still listen to the familiar voices of Mike Maniscalco and Tripp Tracy. The pregame Storm Watch with Adam Gold on 99.9 The Fan starts at 7PM and runs for 60 minutes. At 8PM the Hurricanes Radio Network (consisting of 99.9, 730 The Game in Charlotte, ESPN New Bern 107.5/1490, and ESPN Greenville 107.5/1570). You will also be able stream this call through 99.9 on your smart device, app, or the Carolina Hurricanes app—and it’s not geolocked.
Odds (per Fanduel) – Canes – 245 Habs +198
We are not expecting any changes to the line up but if there are any, or if there is anything to report from the morning skate, updates will be posted in the comments.
One of the NHL’s best bargain contracts this past season belonged to the Detroit Red Wings and veteran forward Patrick Kane.
After signing a one-year contract worth $3 million to remain in Detroit, the future Hall of Famer once again proved he can still produce at a high level despite nearing the end of his career. Although injuries limited Kane to 67 games, the 37-year-old still recorded 57 points, production that would typically cost teams significantly more on the open market.
Now, with Kane once again set to become an unrestricted free agent, the Red Wings face an important offseason decision regarding one of their most recognizable veterans.
Detroit appears poised to undergo a roster transition this summer as the organization looks to create opportunities for younger players to secure full-time NHL roles. Several pending unrestricted free agents are not expected to return next season, including David Perron, James van Riemsdyk, Travis Hamonic, and Cam Talbot with Kane expected to be the lone exception.
The veteran winger made it clear in his end-of-season media availability, that he would like to get Detroit over the hump and into the playoffs while expressing interest in returning to the Red Wings and continuing to build on the organization’s system. Still, there are legitimate questions surrounding what his role should look like moving forward.
Some Red Wings fans and analysts believe Detroit needs to find better, more dynamic solutions for its top-six forward group. Former Red Wings forward Darren McCarty recently discussed Kane’s future during a podcast appearance, suggesting the veteran could be more effective in a middle-six role while continuing to serve as a power-play specialist.
That raises another important question for Detroit’s front office of how much should the team commit financially to an aging player whose role may gradually decrease?
Even if Kane slides lower in the lineup next season, his offensive instincts and experience still provide significant value. Injuries are inevitable over the course of an NHL season, and having a player capable of moving up the lineup and contributing offensively remains an important luxury for playoff hopeful teams.
But at the same time, durability has become a growing concern with Kane having missed 96 games over the past six seasons and will turn 38 years old next November. While his production remains impressive, the physical demands of the NHL continue to become more challenging with age.
For that reason, the most logical path forward may involve a contract structure similar to the one recently signed by longtime former Chicago Blackhawks teammate Jonathan Toews with the Winnipeg Jets.
That deal carries a $2 million cap hit while incorporating performance bonuses tied to games played and offensive production. A similar arrangement could provide Detroit with valuable cap flexibility while also rewarding Kane if he continues producing at a high level.
The Red Wings would retain an experienced veteran capable of helping mentor younger players while still contributing offensively, and Kane would remain with an organization he appears comfortable with as he chases another playoff appearance late in his career.
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The New York Islanders announced on X that they have hired Jay McKee as head coach of their AHL affiliate, the Hamilton Hammers ahead of their inaugural season.
#Isles announced today that Jay McKee has been named Head Coach of the Hamilton Hammers, the Islanders new American Hockey League affiliate.
McKee, 48, was a former 14th overall pick by the Buffalo Sabres in 1995. The left-shot defenseman went on to record 125 points (21 goals, 104 assists) in 802 career regular season games over the course of a 14-year NHL career.
The first 10 seasons of his career were played in Buffalo before a three-year stint with the St. Louis Blues (2006-09), concluding his NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009-10.
After just a year remove from the NHL, McKee began his coaching career, first serving as a volunteer assistant coach at Niagra University in 2010-11.
Despie being on the younger side for head caoches, McKee's got the experience, which includes two seasons as the head coach of the Hamilton Bullodogs (2021-2023), when they were still an OHL team:
The Hockey News learned that McKee was also a finalist for the Bellville Senators, the Ottawa Senators' AHL affiliate's head coaching gig.
The Islanders, who leave Bridgeport after 25 years, elevated Rocky Thompson to Pete DeBoer's staff, which created the Hamilton head coaching vacancy.
The expectaion, at this time, is that Thompson's two assistants, David Cunniff and Chad Kolarik, will serve on McKee's staff.
With the NHL's summer free agent pool shaping up to be one of the thinnest in recent memory, contending teams searching for meaningful offensive upgrades are pivoting their attention toward the trade and restricted free agent markets and one name is beginning to generate serious buzz league-wide.
Vegas Golden Knights winger Pavel Dorofeyev is emerging as one of the most coveted restricted free agents available this offseason, and the Winnipeg Jets are among the clubs paying closest attention.
Dorofeyev's ascent has been nothing short of remarkable as the 25-year-old compiled a career-high 35 goals in his first full NHL season in 2024–25, establishing himself as one of the league's most dangerous finishers.
Over the past two seasons, he has 72 goals and placing him tied for the 15th-most goals in the NHL alongside some of the league’s top offensive talents, including Boston Bruins forwards David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie. Dorofeyev has been a particular menace on the power play, earning 20 of his 37 goals and 10 of his 27 assists with the man advantage this year.
His postseason performance has only accelerated the intrigue with ten goals and four assists for 14 points through 16 playoff games. Dorofeyev's current contract carries a cap hit of just $1,835,000 and will expired at the end of the season, leaving him as a restricted free agent. His breakout production will command a significant raise and could create an opening for Winnipeg.
The Jets spent last offseason overhauling their forward group following the departure of Nikolaj Ehlers and remained competitive, but offensive consistency proved elusive at times. General manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and his staff have identified adding a proven scoring winger as a top priority for a team still anchored by veterans Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Josh Morrissey.
Dorofeyev can work as a legitimate 35-goal threat capable of contributing at even strength and on the power play and would give Winnipeg exactly that kind of impact player.
The financial mechanics of a potential offer sheet are straightforward, if not without cost. A contract in the $4,680,077 to $7,020,113 range would require a first and third-round pick as compensation. A more aggressive offer, in the $7,020,114 to $9,360,153 bracket, would demand a first, second, and third-round selection.
Winnipeg currently holds its own first and third-round picks in each of the next two drafts, giving it the assets needed for a lower-tier offer. The second-round pick situation, however, is worth monitoring as they sent the pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins as part of last year's Luke Schenn deal. That said, NHL teams have reacquired draft picks specifically to position themselves for offer sheet opportunities before, and the Jets could explore a similar avenue if they view Dorofeyev as a legitimate option.
If Cheveldayoff believes Dorofeyev is the offensive catalyst to push the Jets back into legitimate Stanley Cup contention, the price of admission in both dollars and draft capital may well be worth it.
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Four-time NHL Stanley Cup champion Claude Lemieux's death on Thursday, May 28 was reported as an apparent suicide in Florida, according to multiple reports.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said a family member found the body shortly before 3:30 a.m. in the rear warehouse of the Andros Home furniture showroom, reports the Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Network.
The sheriff's office said the man presumed to be Lemieux was found after he failed to return to his home. Sheriff's investigators secured the store as detectives from PBSO's Violent Crimes Division gathered evidence.
Palm Beach County court records show that Lemieux lived in an apartment in Palm Beach Gardens as recently as April 2025. State business records list Lemieux as the registered agent for Andros Home, which incorporated in 2022.
USA TODAY Sports contacted the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner's Office but was notified that the information it has for Claude Lemieux is "exempt from public records."
The Palm County Medical Examiner's Office told USA TODAY Sports in response to an open records request that "all public records you have requested for Claude Lemieux are exempt from public records as specified under SB 474 - FS 406.135. (2) (c)."
The Floridastatute cited by the Palm County Medical Examiner’s Office was enacted in 2024 and exempts photos, videos, audio recordings and autopsy reports related to suicide victims from general public records requests.
Claude Lemieux stats
Lemieux, known for his pesky play and clutch goals, won his first Stanley Cup with the Canadiens in 1986. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 1995 as the New Jersey Devils swept the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Final. Lemieux won his third championship with the Colorado Avalanche in 1996 and returned to the Devils for his fourth title 2000.
Lemieux played 21 NHL seasons and finished with 379 goals, 407 assists and 1,777 penalty minutes in 1,215 games.
He also had 80 goals, including 19 game-winners, 78 assists and 529 penalty minutes in 234 playoff games. He led the playoffs in goals in 1995 and 1997, with 13 each time.
U.S. President Donald Trump posted on social media to honor Lemieux, who he referred to as a "tremendous 'TRUMP' supporter":
"Claude Lemieux, a true Legend of the Game, and one of the fiercest competitors Hockey has ever seen, has passed away. Claude was a friend to the family, and a tremendous “TRUMP” supporter. He won 4 Stanley Cups with 3 different Teams — Montreal, New Jersey, and Colorado — His 80 Career Playoff Goals rank among the All Time Greats. Brendan, my thoughts are with you, Deborah, and the whole Lemieux family — You and your Dad were Warriors on the Ice. Claude will be missed by all who love Winning and Toughness."
Contributing: Palm Beach Post, Mike Brehm
If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, please call, textor chat withthe 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services.
Nilan re-shared a photo from Monday of the two inside Montreal’s Bell Centre ahead of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference final series between the Canadiens and Hurricanes.
“You never know when you’re going to see someone for the last time Rest in Peace MonAmi,” Nolan posted, with the last word translating to “my friend” in French.
Nilan and Lemieux played together on the Canadiens for four-plus seasons, beginning in the 1983-84 season until the 1988 trade that sent Nilan to the Rangers.
They helped the Canadiens win the Stanley Cup in 86, the only Cup Nilan won in his career and one of four Lemieux enjoyed in his 21 seasons.
It appeared the two remained friendly 40-plus years later, with Nilan originally posting Monday the photo from Game 3 featuring the two sandwiching former teammate Sergio Momesso.
Claude Lemieux carries the torch in the opening ceremony of Game Three of the Eastern Conference Final between the Canadiens and the Hurricanes at the Bell Centre on May 25, 2026 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. NHLI via Getty Images
One of his sons found him around 3 a.m. in the warehouse of the Lake Park, Fla. furniture store owned by Lemieux and his wife Deborah — Andros Home, per wpbf.com — after those close to him became worried that he had not come home, according multiple outlets.
Lemieux began his career with Montreal before heading to the Devils and then the Avalanche, winning two and one Cups with the franchises, respectively — and also played for the Coyotes, Stars and Sharks.
Lemieux and Nilan as part of the Canadiens’ 1987-88 roster. New York Post
He scored 379 goals and tallied 407 assists in 1,215 career games.
“Today is a dark day for the Canadiens family and the entire hockey community. I wish to express my most sincere and deepest condolences to Claude’s family and loved ones,” the Canadiens said via Geoff Molson, the owner and CEO of Groupe CH. “A fierce competitor who rose to the occasion in big moments, Claude was a relentless, courageous, and tenacious player who led the team to the highest honors. He embodied the very essence of being a Montreal Canadiens player. Today we mourn the untimely passing of one of our champions. Our thoughts are with his family on this difficult day.”
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for free and confidential crisis counseling.
Gabriel Chiarot is headed to the 2026 Memorial Cup Final. The 2025 fifth-rounder is currently playing for the Kitchener Rangers, who booked a spot in the championship game after going 3-0 in the tournament's round-robin. Chiarot has already found the back of the net in Kelowna, as through his first three games, he has recorded a goal, an assist and six shots on goal.
Kitchener entered the tournament as favourites to lift the historic trophy. The Rangers won the OHL championship this year and have only lost two games since the start of the playoffs. In speaking with The Hockey News, Chiarot explained Kitchener's mentality heading into Sunday's Memorial Cup Final.
"We came in with the mindset that we're the best team here, and we're gonna win it all," said Chiarot. "I think we've done exactly that to this point. Obviously these teams are pretty good, but we know we're the best, and we just have to play like it."
Since the Rangers finished first in the round-robin, they gained an automatic berth into the Memorial Cup Final. This means the team will get four days off before facing off in the championship game. Overall, Chiarot and his teammates are not concerned about the extended break, as they faced similar situations throughout the 2026 post-season.
"We kind of dealt with this a little bit during the OHL playoffs. Sweeping a team in four games, and then having to wait a week to play the next round. So we're kind of used to stuff like this. But I think just not trying to think too much about the game, and what the stakes are. I know it's tough, especially for older guys. It could be their last game ever in junior hockey. So just try not to think too much of it, and just think of it as another game."
Being on a championship team can help with a prospect's development. Being exposed to high-stress situations early in their careers can help prepare a player for a future long post-season run at the pro level. When asked about some of the lessons he has learned over the past few months, Chiarot spoke about the benefit of being on a championship-winning team.
"Just learning how to play in these high-stakes games. Obviously, this is the biggest stage in junior hockey across Canada. Just learning how to be resilient through these tough games, and play with the lead, without the lead, things like that."
As for the Canucks, there have been some significant changes since Chiarot was drafted and signed his entry-level contract with the organization. This includes Henrik and Daniel Sedin taking over as Co-Presidents of Hockey Operations. Chiarot already has some experience working with the Sedins as they were on the ice with him at both Development and Training Camp last season.
"Going on the ice with them for Development Camp there, they're really skilled players, and it showed. They know a lot about the game. They've played for a long time in the NHL, and they've accomplished a lot of great things. They know what they're doing, and I think the belief in them is really high from Canucks fans and the organization."
Another person whom Chiarot had the chance to work with is current Abbotsford Canucks Head Coach Manny Malhotra. Last year, Malhotra not only helped out at Development Camp but was also behind the bench for Vancouver in their two-game 2025 Prospects Showcase against the Seattle Kraken. Chiarot has fond memories of working with Malhotra, who is the rumoured favourite to take over the Canucks' open Head Coach position.
"He's a tough coach. He praises his players a lot, and I think he does a good job of keeping everyone in check. We skated with him as well. He was my coach for the Prospects Tournament in Everett. Nothing but good things to say about him. He was great to me."
Gabriel Chiarot of the Kitchener Rangers (Photo Credit: Steve Dunsmoor/CHL)
As for Chiarot as a prospect, it is clear that he impressed Vancouver last year. It is not often that late-round picks sign ELC's right out of Training Camp, but that is exactly what happened with Chiarot. When asked about his development plan with the organization, Chiarot detailed what the Canucks wanted him to work on this past season.
"I think the main goal was to continue playing my game and not try to change my game into something I'm not. So I think I've done a good job of that this year. There's a little bit of talk about getting my agility better, and things like that, but the main focus was to just continue to play the way I play."
The big question for Chiarot is what happens next season. He is AHL-eligible, but could also head back to the OHL for one final season. At the moment, though, Chiarot remains focused on the task at hand, which is lifting the Memorial Cup on Sunday night.
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.
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The Boston Bruins, for the first time in a while, have a lot of good trade assets to use in the offseason to make substantial roster improvements.
But will general manager Don Sweeney be able to use his improved prospect pool and boatload of draft picks to find any deals to his liking?
The Bruins far exceeded expectations last season. After finishing with the fifth-worst record in the 2024-25 campaign, Boston ended the 2025-26 season with the league’s eighth-best record (45-27-10, 100 points) and a berth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Despite the positive steps taken in the regular season, the playoffs were a painful reminder of how much the Bruins still lack the needed amount of elite skill and speed to compete at the highest level. The B’s lost to the Buffalo Sabres in a six-game first-round series.
Making it back to the playoffs in 2027 won’t be easy for the Bruins. They need roster upgrades at key positions, specifically at center and the right side of the blue line.
Let’s look at seven players the Bruins should consider pursuing on the trade market.
Robert Thomas, C, St. Louis Blues
2025-26 Stats: 25 G, 39 A in 64 GP
Contract: $8.125 million, expires after 2030-31 season
Thomas is exactly what the Bruins need most: A true No. 1 center in the prime of his career. The B’s have not been able to find this kind of player since Patrice Bergeron retired after the 2022-23 campaign. They signed Elias Lindholm to a seven-year, $54.25 million deal in 2024 free agency to be that kind of center, and so far that experiment has been a huge failure.
Thomas is just 26 years old and an elite playmaker who can also score 25-30 goals. He tallied 64 points in 64 games this past season and posted 80-plus points in each of the previous two seasons.
The cost to get Thomas would be extraordinarily high.
The Athletic’s Jeremy Rutherford reported on Feb. 26 that the Blues were seeking “three first-half-of-the-first-round assets ahead of the trade deadline. For example, that could mean an established young player, a drafted prospect and a draft pick who were all selected or could be taken in the first 15 or so picks.”
Chris Johnston wrote in The Athletic earlier this week that “the Blues attached an incredibly high price to Thomas while gauging interest ahead of the trade deadline and won’t be lowering the ask this summer.”
True first-line centers signed long-term at 26 years old are franchise building blocks. Drafting and developing is the best way to acquire one because they almost never get to free agency and cost a ton via trade.
Mason McTavish, C, Anaheim Ducks
2025-26 Stats: 17 G, 24 A in 75 GP
Contract: $7 million salary cap hit, expires after 2030-31 season
McTavish had a tough year in Anaheim. He saw his scoring drop by 11 points from the previous season and was a healthy scratch in multiple 2026 playoff games. His 12:25 of ice time per game in the postseason was almost three minutes less than his regular season playing time.
“I have zero evidence to suggest the Anaheim Ducks are the ones picking up the phone and calling teams about him,” The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun wrote Wednesday. “But I know for a fact that several teams have inquired about him. He’s coming off a season in which he regressed after a contract stalemate delayed his start.”
McTavish tallied career highs of 22 goals and 30 assists during the 2024-25 campaign. Can he get back to, or exceed, that kind of offensive production on a different team? Maybe. He’s 23 years old and has an impressive offensive skill set. He is a strong playmaker (high-end passing and vision) who also has the ability to score 20-plus goals. He plays with a physical edge, too.
There’s risk with McTavish, though. If he doesn’t take his scoring production to another level — 70 to 80 points, for example — he could be just another expensive center not worthy of a top-six role on a contender. The Bruins already have one of those centers in Elias Lindholm.
Jason Robertson, LW, Dallas Stars
2025-26 Stats: 45 G, 51 A in 82 GP
Contract: RFA this summer
David Pastrnak is the only Bruins player since 2003 to score 40-plus goals in a season. He needs help — someone who can take on some of the scoring burden.
Robertson would be capable of doing that. He scored 45 goals and dished out 51 assists for the Stars this past season. He has scored 35-plus goals four times and has tallied at least 79 points in each of the last five seasons. Robertson has played well in the playoffs, too, posting 52 points in 62 career postseason games. He was especially effective in this year’s playoffs with six goals and two assists in six games.
Jason Robertson has scored a goal in SIX-STRAIGHT playoff games for the Stars going back to the 2025 postseason.
Robertson is a truly elite offensive player. The question is whether the Stars, who don’t have much salary cap space, will be able to pay him what he wants.
“The Stars have been adamant about their desire to sign the prolific scoring winger to a long-term extension, but finding the right number hasn’t been easy,” The Athletic’s Chris Johnston recently wrote in his trade board column. “Robertson has a case to exceed teammate Mikko Rantanen’s $12 million annual salary, given the 18 percent jump in the salary cap since Rantanen signed his deal.”
If Roberson actually becomes available on the trade market, the Bruins should at the very least pick up the phone and see how much it would cost to make a deal. He is exactly the kind of high-end goal scorer the B’s need.
Mavrik Bourque, C, Dallas Stars
2025-26 Stats: 20 G, 21 A, 82 GP
Contract: RFA this summer
If a trade for Robertson isn’t an option, then a pursuit of Bourque would make sense. Bourque has star potential, but it’s fair to wonder if he can reach his ceiling in Dallas with so many talented forwards ahead of him in the Stars’ loaded lineup.
Bourque tallied career highs with 20 goals, 21 assists and 82 games played this past season. His 36 even-strength points would have ranked fifth-most among B’s forwards.
The 2020 first-round pick could potentially be a No. 2 center in the near future, but on a contender he’s probably a very good No. 3 center. Either way, Bourque is a player who could thrive in a larger role on another team.
Shane Wright, C, Seattle Kraken
2025-26 Stats: 12 G, 15 A in 74 GP
Contract: $886,666 salary cap hit, expires after 2026-27 season
Wright is an interesting buy-low candidate. He was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft but hasn’t developed as expected, particularly offensively. Wright tallied 27 points this past season after posting a career-high 44 points (19 goals, 25 assists) in the 2024-25 campaign. He is a smart playmaker who is responsible defensively and still has plenty of room for growth offensively. Wright is capable of being a 20-goal scorer.
He is entering the final year of his entry-level contract. Could he thrive with a change of scenery? It’s possible. There are many reasons to believe Wright still hasn’t played his best hockey yet.
Olen Zellweger, D, Anaheim Ducks
2025-26 Stats: 7 G, 15 A in 76 GP
Contract: RFA this summer
The Ducks have a ton of defensemen able to hit free agency this summer, including captain Radko Gudas, John Carlson, Jacob Trouba and Zellweger.
Zellweger is just 22 years old and has shown a lot of potential as a puck-moving defenseman who plays with speed and skill. He’s also excellent at zone entries, which could make him valuable on the power play.
Zellweger was in and out of the Ducks’ lineup during the playoffs and appeared in just three of their 12 games over two rounds. He did, however, score a pretty clutch goal late in Game 5 of the second-round series versus the Vegas Golden Knights.
Zellweger is a left shot, which does not address the Bruins’ need for more depth on the right side of the blue line. He’s also not a shutdown defenseman with imposing physical traits. But his offensive skill and skating are impressive enough to considering pursuing him via trade.
Simon Nemec, D, New Jersey Devils
2025-26 Stats: 11 G, 15 A in 68 GP
Contract: RFA this summer
The Devils have a decision to make soon on Nemec’s future because he’ll be an RFA in July.
The No. 2 overall pick from the 2022 NHL Draft is listed at 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds. He’s a very good skater, he’s an excellent puck-mover, he shoots the puck a ton, and he has the ability to score 10-plus goals. His speed and ability to skate out of trouble in the defensive zone is something the Bruins desperately need after they struggled so much with the Sabres’ relentless forecheck during the 2026 playoffs. He’s also a right-shot, and the Bruins really need another one of those players on their blue line.
Nemec has underwhelmed a bit over three seasons with the Devils, but he has a ton of talent. Taking a gamble on Nemec reaching his potential is a safer bet than giving a huge long-term contract to a UFA defenseman such as Darryn Raddysh or Rasmus Andersson.
A change of scenery and a larger role could greatly benefit Nemec.
“Claude Lemieux, a true legend of the game, and one of the fiercest competitors hockey has ever seen, has passed away,” Trump wrote on Truth Social Thursday.
“Claude was a friend to the family, and a tremendous ‘Trump’ supporter.”
Claude Lemieux is honored at the Colorado Avalanche 30th anniversary on Dec. 11, 2025. NHLI via Getty ImagesFormer Montreal Canadiens player Claude Lemieux holds a torch as he enters the arena before Game 3 of the NHL Eastern Conference on May 25, 2026. Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP
Trump gushed over Lemieux’s achievements on the ice – particularly the four Stanley Cup wins he achieved with Montreal, New Jersey, and Colorado.
“Claude will be missed by all who love winning and toughness,” Trump signed off the post, including a MAGA hashtag.
Lemieux, 60, was found dead by his adult son in the warehouse of a furniture store owned by his family in Florida at around 3 a.m. after they became concerned he had not returned home, TMZ first reported.
Lemieux’s son Brendan, a professional ice hockey player in Switzerland, paid tribute to his dad on Instagram. He said, “I love you dad! My son’s favorite person is going to watch from above for a while. We will see you.”
Brendan, 30, shared a photo taken on the ice – where Claude was seen beaming as he held his grandson.
Brendan previously told USA Today in 2014 following the NHL draft that his dad was his “biggest role model on and off the ice.”
President Donald Trump dedicated a Truth Social post to “tremendous” supporter Claude Lemieux. AFP via Getty Images
“I’m proud of the career he had,” he said.
“I’m proud of the way he played, how hated he was. I just love that about him. I definitely want to follow in his footsteps. I want to be the guy that can step up and be that playoff performer.”
The late NHL star’s daughter Claudia Lemieux, 28, shared a remembrance from the New Jersey Devils, for whom her dad played two stints from 1990 through 1995 and then again in 1999-2000.
Claude Lemieux played for a number of teams during his career — including the New Jersey Devils. AP Photo/BILL KOSTROUN
“No words to express the level of devastation we feel,” she wrote under the post on her Instagram Story. “I love you forever daddy. Forever your only girl.”
The Devils described Lemieux, who was nicknamed “Pepe,” as a “clutch player on the ice” and someone who was “widely respected throughout the NHL – both as a trusted agent and valued colleague.”
“Claude leaves behind a lasting legacy within our game that he gave so much to,” the Devils said.
Claude Lemieux holds up the Stanley Cup after the Montreal Canadiens won in 1986. Bruce Bennett Studios via Getty Images
During his stellar career, Lemieux won his first Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 1986 before scooping the prize with the New Jersey Devils in 1995 and Colorado Avalanche the following year.
He won his fourth Stanley Cup in 2000 after re-signing with the Devils.
Lemieux, who became a player agent after he retired, scored 80 postseason goals, the ninth-most all-time.
Lemieux recorded 379 goals and 407 assists in 1,215 regular-season games, and had 158 points in 234 playoff matches.
Claude Lemieux with his son, Brendan. Instagram / @brendan_lemieux
He played 1,449 regular-season and playoff games with six different teams from 1983-2009, finishing with Phoenix, Dallas and San Jose.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman called Lemieux “one of the greatest big-game players in hockey history.”
With Post wires
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for free and confidential crisis counseling.
15 Mar 2000: Claude Lemieux of the New Jersey Devils looks on from the wall during a game against the Dallas Stars at the Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Stars defeated the Devils 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Squire /Allsport | Getty Images
Here are your links for today:
Devils Links
Claude Lemieux has passed away at the age of 60:
The NHL Alumni Association is devastated to share that Claude Lemieux has passed away at the age of 60.
Born in Buckingham, Quebec, Claude was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round of the 1983 NHL Entry Draft and would make his NHL debut just a few months later… pic.twitter.com/iohlATU6qz
The New Jersey Devils organization is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former Devil Claude Lemieux.
A clutch player on the ice and greatly appreciated by Devils' fans off it, Claude's impact in bringing the first-ever Stanley Cup to New Jersey will forever be… pic.twitter.com/kDD9ZMAPOr
“Lemieux, nicknamed ‘Pepe,’ played 21 years in the NHL, winning the 1995 Conn Smythe Trophy and the four Cup titles — two with the New Jersey Devils and one each with the Colorado Avalanche and Montreal Canadiens. His 80 playoff goals rank ninth in NHL history and his 158 points are tied for 27th. Lemieux played 1,215 regular-season games, scoring 379 goals and 786 points and amassing 1,777 penalty minutes.” [The Athletic ($)]
Defensemen updates:
The Chris Johnston Show (May 28): On New Jersey… • Even if the report on Simon Nemec asking for a trade was false it doesn't mean he won't be traded. He will be looking for a long term contract similar to what Luke Hughes signed for. • CJ says his sense is Dougie Hamilton is… pic.twitter.com/mKAMOcfzI0
“The Devils have a lot of pieces in place, but also some major holes to reconcile. Here’s where the Devils stand going into the 2026-27 season.” [The Athletic ($)]
“A new deal won’t be cheap, even if Hischier takes a team-friendly discount. What could his next contract with the Devils look like?” [Devils on the Rush ($)]
“Former Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy called it ‘upsetting’ in a podcast Thursday that he can’t interview with other clubs after Vegas management declined reported requests by Edmonton and Los Angeles. ‘There were two teams that asked,’ Cassidy said on the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast. ‘It’s public knowledge now, and I would like to talk to them. I want to go to work. I’m a hockey coach.’” [Associated Press]
“For one reason or another, there are many young players who would benefit from a trade to a team that is interested in letting young players flourish. Here are a dozen such candidates:” [ESPN]
Vegas taking the Western Conference Final was a shocking result. Where does that series win rank among recent surprise playoff sweeps? [Daily Faceoff]
An interesting idea: “The NBA’s board of governors voted overwhelmingly Thursday to change the league’s draft lottery format beginning with the 2027 NBA draft, the league announced. The new format expands the lottery from 14 to 16 teams, including the 8-seed in each conference’s playoff picture, and adds anti-tanking measures where the bottom three teams are dealt lesser chances for the No. 1 pick while flattening odds for teams that do not qualify for the playoffs or the play-in tournament.” [ESPN]
Feel free to discuss these and any other hockey-related stories in the comments below.
The Hockey News released its list of the Top 100 NHL players this season in April, and four Montreal Canadiens have made the list. Yesterday, we covered Juraj Slafkovsky, who’s 94th on the list. Today, we look at the second Hab on the list, which is at number 48: Captain Nick Suzuki.
THN justifies his presence at number 48 because he’s the number one center the Canadiens have been looking for for years, adding that his chemistry with Cole Caufield and Slafkovsky is sublime. The magazine also praises the playmaker because he has racked up five 20-goal seasons in a row.
I find this ranking highly debatable. This season, Suzuki put up 101 points, a career mark, which was good for sixth overall in league scoring. That’s 20 more points than Tage Thompson, who lands in 32nd place after putting up 81 points in 81 games. Granted, offensive production shouldn’t be the only criterion to make the Top-100 ranking, and that’s exactly why Suzuki should be higher on the list.
All season long, he has had the toughest matchup, being pitted against the opponent’s top line more often than not and yet, on top of producing a career year offensively, he has earned a Selke Trophy nomination as the top defensive forward. Rumblings around the league are that he will likely win the trophy as well.
Since he was given the C in Montreal, becoming the youngest captain in Canadiens history, Suzuki has led by example on and off the ice. He’s put the team on his back in 2025-26, almost taking it single-handedly to the playoffs. For an encore, he was selected to represent Canada at the Olympics and was highly praised by coach Jon Cooper on the international stage before returning to lead the Habs to the playoffs.
While he might not have been all that productive at even strength in the playoffs, he’s still third in scoring with 16 points in 18 games. Granted, the list was published before he led Montreal through two playoff rounds and eliminated both the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Buffalo Sabres, but that just goes to show how good a player he has become.
The fact that he’s the third-best Canadiens player on the list is surprising. One could argue that Suzuki is the glue that holds this Habs’ team together, and while journalists from other markets are starting to take notice of what he accomplishes since the Olympics, he’s still grossly underestimated. He can attack, he can defend, he can do anything the coach wants him to do, and having such a Swiss army knife kind of player on your roster is any coach’s dream.
